Utah’s Green River, as it’s cool clear waters flow from Flaming Gorge Dam, becomes one of the west’s more prolific and consistent tailwater trout fisheries. It’s journey begins deep within a narrow varigated sandstone gorge, before emerging into outlaw country and the more open and subdued alluvial formations that make up it’s topography. We were one of the first to acquire a permit to guide on the Green River back in 1986. Since then, it’s become one of the worlds more consistent and recognized trout fisheries for Brown, Rainbow, Cutthroat and hybrid Rainbow trout, that can be found rising to your fly in the west. Although it has excellent aquatic hatches, it’s probably best known for the excellent terrestrial fishing it offers, in particular spring and early summer Cicada’s.
In 2014 Matt Lucas; a previous member of the shop crew, and guide, purchased our Green River Guide permit and rebranded the service as Western Rivers Flyfisher Guides. Since purchasing our permit, he’s significantly improved on the service offering shuttles, and experienced guides who will help you enjoy this diverse and spectacularly scenic fishery, especially if you enjoy having success fishing dry flies.
We can help you book your Green River guide trip or check on availability. If you’re interested in booking a trip, to best accommodate you, we urge you do do so at your earliest convenience, Matt’s busy and the calendar is filling up faster each year.
The A, B & C sections of the Green River combine to make one of the most prolific and consistent tailwater fisheries in the West. Fish population can reach 15,000 fish per river mile and both Brown & Rainbow Trout are regularly found in the 18”-20” class with larger fish not being uncommon. The gin-clear water lends itself to fantastic sight fishing and the consistent aquatic hatches & abundant terrestrials that this river is known for provide ample targets. The Western Rivers Green River Guides are focused on fishing dry flies and will always try to seek out opportunities to hunt rising fish or prospect the banks for trout with their eyes looking up.
The [approximately] 30 miles of river that encompass Utah's Green River begin by flowing through an awe inspiring red rock gorge and then transition in to a tapestry of small canyons, vibrant high desert forests and vast open country before crossing the Colorado border. Between the scenery, abundant wildlife and crystal-clear water, the fishing in only a bonus!
For visitors to the Flaming Gorge area and Dutch John, Utah, a variety of lodging options are available, including lodges, vacation rentals, rooms. Beyond the immediate area, additional accommodations can be found in nearby towns like Manila and Vernal. The region also offers numerous camping opportunities, from established campgrounds to free camping on BLM land and along the river.
Dutch John is a mild & scenic 3.5–4 hour drive from Salt Lake City making it a quick and easy transfer for both local anglers, as well as those taking advantage of Salt lake City’s International airport. Due to the long days on the water, we always recommend setting at least one day aside for travel to Dutch John on the front and/or back end of the trip.
