A fish habitat structure being installed in Pineview Reservoir. Photo: Utah Department of Natural Resources

UTAH — Some of Utah’s best fishing destinations are getting a boost through funded projects this year. The state’s Blue Ribbon Fisheries program has earmarked $450,000 for nine enhancement projects aimed at preserving and improving premier fishing waters during the 2025–26 fiscal year.

The Blue Ribbon Fisheries program highlights Utah’s highest-quality fishing waterbodies, providing not only top-tier angling opportunities but also funding to help ensure those waters remain exceptional. There are currently 43 designated Blue Ribbon waterbodies across the state, along with two mountain regions — the Uinta Mountains and Boulder Mountain — that also carry the designation.

“The program was created because Utah’s leaders recognized that fishing is one of the state’s most popular and economically valuable recreational activities,” said Trina Hedrick, sportfish coordinator for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. “There was a need to recognize the best angling opportunities in the state and to provide additional funding for further improvements to keep them at that level. This program helps fulfill those needs.”

Major Projects Funded for 2025–26

The Blue Ribbon Fisheries Advisory Council, a 13-member committee of anglers appointed by the governor, selects improvement projects each year. These projects are funded through a portion of the revenue from annual fishing license sales. Two of the largest efforts receiving support in the upcoming cycle include:

Strawberry River Restoration — Phase 3:
The Simmons Ranch area of the river will be the focus of this $86,000 project. Work will include erosion control, floodplain reconnection, and aquatic habitat enhancement following damage caused by the 2018 Dollar Ridge Fire.
Aquatic Habitat Restoration in Northern Utah:
Over $70,000 has been allocated to install fish habitat structures at Pineview Reservoir, Bountiful Pond, Andy Adams Reservoir, and Stateline Reservoir, as well as to address bank erosion on the Weber River near Coalville.

More details about these projects are available through Utah’s Watershed Restoration Initiative website.

About the Blue Ribbon Fisheries Program

Launched in 2001 by then-Gov. Mike Leavitt and formally established in 2005 by Gov. Jon Huntsman, the program recognizes waters that provide outstanding recreational fishing. To be considered, a waterbody must offer a high-quality experience, strong fish populations, good amenities, and accessibility for a wide range of anglers.

“These waters are among the best fishing spots in Utah,” Hedrick said. “They provide not only great fishing, but also ideal habitat for the fish, economic benefits to the local communities, and an overall high-quality experience in the outdoors.”

In addition to current Blue Ribbon waters, the program also supports enhancement efforts for waterbodies that may eventually qualify for designation.

Last year, the program supported 11 Blue Ribbon Fisheries projects and initiatives, continuing a long-standing effort to maintain Utah’s reputation as a top destination for recreational fishing.