Bear Lake - Garden City , UT

Lake Information

Surface Area:109 acres
Elevation:5904 ft.
Fish Species: Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout, Mackinaw Trout, Common Carp, Mountain Whitefish, Yellow Perch
Bear Lake is Utah’s largest natural lake and home to the native Bear Lake cutthroat trout. These 18–24 inch fish are targeted by trolling spoons and plugs 15–50 feet deep. Spring and fall are top seasons.

The lake also holds endemic whitefish and Bonneville cisco, especially active in winter. Cisco runs in January allow dipnetting. Whitefish are jigged up in deeper water, often during ice fishing season.

Rainbows are stocked but uncommon. Lake trout exist in small numbers and are caught by deep trolling.

The lake features marinas, boat rentals, and nearby towns like Garden City for lodging and supplies. High winds can rise suddenly, making boating risky without preparation.

Bear Lake offers a scenic, challenging fishery with rare species and vast waters, perfect for experienced anglers looking for a unique trip.



Latest Photos

6-13-2023
6-13-2023
Photo Credit: Shane DuBois
1-20-2022
Photo Credit: Shane DuBois
1-20-2022

Latest Fish Plants

Plant DateSpeciesSource# of Fish
5-21-2025Cutthroat TroutUTDNR7138
11-13-2024Mackinaw TroutUTDNR15187
7-15-2024Rainbow TroutUTDNR100
5-01-2024Cutthroat TroutUTDNR5716
4-30-2024Cutthroat TroutUTDNR101384


Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
6-2-2025 Improvements that have recently been made to the park's RAINBOW COVE facility
We are excited to introduce the improvements that... more »
Bear Lake State Park
5-26-2025 Bear Lake Conditions Report
WATER (LAKE) TEMPERATURE: Lake Temperature: @ 56.0 degrees as... more »
Bear Lake State Park
5-20-2025 Bear Lake Conditions Report
WATER (LAKE) TEMPERATURE: Lake Temperature: @ 50.0 degrees as... more »
Bear Lake State Park
5-5-2025 Bear Lake Conditions Report
WATER (LAKE) TEMPERATURE: Lake Temperature: @ 49.6 degrees as... more »
Bear Lake State Park
4-28-2025 Bear Lake Conditions Report
WATER (LAKE) TEMPERATURE: Lake Temperature: @ 46.6 degrees as... more »
Bear Lake State Park

Detailed Map