Fly Fishing Logan River - Upper

Fly fishing Logan River – Upper offers an authentic, high-elevation freestone experience in the Wasatch Mountains of Northern Utah. This section is located primarily within the Logan Canyon, flowing through the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Known for its challenging, fast-moving water, stunning scenery, and healthy populations of wild trout, the Upper Logan River is an excellent destination for anglers seeking solitude and the technical rewards of mountain fishing in the Bear River Basin.

As a mountain freestone, the Upper Logan River is defined by a steep gradient, creating a dynamic environment of pocketwater, boulder gardens, and deep plunge pools. The river is relatively small and easily waded during low to moderate flows, but its rocky bed demands caution. The water is cold and highly oxygenated, which promotes excellent trout health. The banks are heavily lined with brush, aspens, and maples, providing crucial shade and cover that require accurate, short casts and roll casts to access the holding lies. The clear, high-mountain water often requires a stealthy approach.

The Upper Logan River is primarily home to wild brook trout and native cutthroat trout. Brook trout are typically the most abundant species, often found in large numbers, though they tend to be smaller, ranging from 6 to 12 inches. The native cutthroat trout offer a special angling opportunity, thriving in the cold, pristine waters. While true trophy sizes are rare, the sheer number of fish and their wildness make for fast-paced and rewarding fishing. Anglers should focus their efforts on the fast seams next to large boulders and in the tails of the small pools, where fish are less wary and more opportunistic.

Hatch activity is seasonal, beginning after the high spring runoff subsides, typically in late May or early June. Key hatches include a variety of caddis throughout the summer and stoneflies in the early season, often providing exciting dry fly action. Blue-winged olives (BWO) emerge in the spring and fall, but the most important surface fishing often comes from terrestrial patterns. Hoppers, ants, and beetles are extremely effective from mid-summer through early fall, especially when fished tight to the overgrown banks. Nymphing remains the most consistent method for fishing the turbulent pocketwater.

Optimal wading flows for the Upper Logan River range from 80 CFS to 250 CFS. Flows below 80 CFS can make the fish wary and limit holding water, while flows above 250 CFS can make wading hazardous due to the steep gradient and swift current. This section is **not floatable** due to its small size, frequent obstructions, and pocketwater characteristics. It is exclusively a walk-and-wade fishery, rewarding patient anglers who navigate the tight canyon banks.

Access to the Upper Logan River is easy to moderate, with numerous pull-offs along Highway 89 (Logan Canyon Highway) which parallels the river. The river flows almost entirely through public land within the National Forest, ensuring excellent access. The nearest major commercial airport is Salt Lake City International (SLC). Anglers should exercise extreme caution on the slippery, boulder-strewn bottom and be aware of the fast current, especially during periods of higher flow.

The Logan River – Upper is a classic Utah mountain freestone that offers a rewarding challenge for anglers. Its high density of wild brook and cutthroat trout, combined with its intimate canyon setting, makes it a prime choice for walk-and-wade fishing in Northern Utah.