Utah Fishing Limits Changed At Minersville Reservoir This Summe

Anglers across Utah will be able to take advantage of temporary emergency fishing regulation changes at seven waterbodies after the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources increased daily fishing limits in response to drought conditions and reservoir construction projects.

The emergency changes, issued by DWR Director Riley Peck and effective July 2, are intended to allow anglers to harvest more fish before declining water levels negatively impact fisheries. According to a DWR press release, the changes are designed to reduce the number of fish that could be lost as reservoirs shrink during the summer months.

Limits Raised At Minersville Reservoir To Four Trout Per Day

The changes are particularly significant for Minersville Reservoir in Beaver County, one of the closest popular fishing destinations for residents in southern Utah. Ongoing drought conditions are causing water levels at the reservoir to drop this summer. Through Oct. 1, anglers may keep four trout of any size per day, an increase from the normal limit. The reservoir has also been opened to spearfishing for all sportfish during that period. However, DWR officials emphasized that bait remains prohibited despite the temporary rule changes.

Ben Nadolski, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

In a press release, Peck said the increased harvest limits are intended to help anglers make use of fish that might otherwise be lost because of drought and construction-related water declines. He added that similar efforts have successfully improved the survival of remaining fish populations in previous years.

Emergency regulations are also in place at Canyon View Park Pond in Utah County, Otter Creek Reservoir in Piute County, Palisade Reservoir in Sanpete County, Pineview Reservoir in Weber County, Red Creek Reservoir in Duchesne County and Vernon Reservoir in Tooele County. Depending on the waterbody, changes include higher trout limits, expanded bass limits, no limits on certain species, or temporary spearfishing opportunities while reservoirs undergo significant drawdowns.

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The DWR noted that all other regulations outlined in the 2026 Utah Fishing Guidebook remain in effect. Anglers seeking additional information about drought impacts on Utah fisheries and the temporary emergency regulations can find more details on the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website.