Spirit Lake - Manila , UT

Lake Information

Fish Species: Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, Bull Trout
Spirit Lake near Manila is a 20-acre high‑elevation trout lake fishing from late May to October. At 8,100 feet, this alpine gem offers beautiful float-tube and shore fishing for rainbow, brook, and bull trout.

Rainbows are stocked and average 8–12 inches, while wild brook and bull trout get larger. Bull and brook must be released. Bait casters use PowerBait or salmon eggs near shore; fly anglers cast dries and nymphs at dusk or over drop-offs.

Dry fly seasons include mayfly and caddis hatches. Nymph rigs work well through the day. Utility anglers use floating tubes or canoes—no gas motors allowed.

Amenities are minimal: a short carry-in launch, campground with vault toilets and fire rings. Bugs can be heavy—bring repellent. Water clarity is excellent, and midday fish tend to downshift, making early and late fishing more productive.

For anglers seeking solitude, variety, and scenic alpine trout fishing, Spirit Lake’s pristine setting and mixed trout species make it a must-visit in northeastern Utah.




Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
5-22-2025 Summer Forecast
Road open to dam but lake is still... more »
Utah Division of Wildlife
11-21-2022 Snow depth is now 8-10 inches on the road
Snow depth is now 8-10 inches on the... more »
Utah Division of Wildlife
6-19-2015 Spirit Lake Fish Report
A few anglers report fair to good... more »
Utah Division of Wildlife
6-12-2015 Spirit Lake Fish Report
A few early anglers reported fair to... more »
Utah Division of Wildlife
5-29-2015 Spirit Lake Fish Report
The last gate was recently opened, so you... more »
Utah Division of Wildlife

Detailed Map