Damn Good Bear Lake Fishing Guides

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Bear Lake fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

Choose a Date

Damn Good Guides

Experts Available 24/7

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Fishing Guides In Bear Lake

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Elk Rapids

Elk Rapids Ice Fishing Adventure

100% (1)
1 - 6 People From $150

Top Species for Fishing in Bear Lake

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Bear Lake

What are the best fishing trips in Bear Lake?

The best fishing trips in Bear Lake are:

Why should I book a fishing trip in Bear Lake with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 1 trip in Bear Lake: Elk Rapids Ice Fishing Adventure guided by Jim.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly guides / fishing lessons in Bear Lake? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in Bear Lake.

What types of fishing trips are common in Bear Lake?

Lake fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Bear Lake.

The most commonly sought after species in Bear Lake are: 1. burbot, 2. northern pike, 3. perch, and 4. rainbow trout.

The most common fishing techniques in Bear Lake are artificial lure fishing, light tackle fishing, and live bait fishing but ice fishing is popular as well.

How much does a Bear Lake fishing trip cost?

Prices in Bear Lake can range anywhere from about $210 to $990, but the average price for a half day trip in Bear Lake is $525. The average price for a full day trip in Bear Lake is $700.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for fishing in Bear Lake?

The most popular season for fishing in Bear Lake is winter, and most anglers book their trips 23 days in advance.

Do I need a Bear Lake fishing license and what are the bag limits in Bear Lake?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Bear Lake, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Bear Lake. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Bear Lake.

What is fishing in Bear Lake all about?

Fishing in Bear Lake offers anglers a serene and picturesque experience in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Nestled on the border between Utah and Idaho, this natural gem boasts crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain scenery, providing the perfect backdrop for a day of fishing. Bear Lake is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, attracting anglers from near and far in search of trophy-sized catches and peaceful moments on the water.

One of the highlights of fishing in Bear Lake is the chance to target a variety of freshwater species, including lake trout, cutthroat trout, and kokanee salmon. These fish thrive in the lake's cold, deep waters and provide anglers with thrilling battles and the opportunity to reel in some impressive catches. Whether casting from the shore, fishing from a boat, or trolling along the lake's surface, anglers can enjoy a diverse range of fishing experiences while surrounded by the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

In addition to its trout and salmon fisheries, Bear Lake also offers opportunities to catch a variety of other freshwater species such as whitefish and yellow perch. Anglers can explore the lake's numerous bays, coves, and rocky shorelines in search of these prized catches, enjoying the peaceful solitude of this remote mountain paradise. Whether fishing for trout, salmon, or other species, anglers in Bear Lake can expect an unforgettable fishing experience amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Rocky Mountains.

What are the most popular months to fish in Bear Lake?

Fishing seasons in Bear Lake, Utah, vary throughout the year, offering anglers a range of opportunities to pursue different species in this scenic mountain lake. Spring marks the beginning of the fishing season as temperatures rise, and the ice covering the lake melts away. This time of year presents excellent conditions for targeting species such as lake trout and cutthroat trout, as they become more active in search of food after the winter months. Anglers can enjoy productive fishing outings from the shore, boat, or kayak as they explore the lake's pristine waters and picturesque surroundings.

Summer in Bear Lake brings warmer temperatures and longer days, creating prime fishing conditions for a variety of freshwater species. During this season, anglers can continue to target lake trout and cutthroat trout, as well as kokanee salmon, which are particularly abundant in the lake's deeper waters. Anglers can enjoy trolling along the lake's surface or casting from the shore to reel in these prized catches while soaking in the stunning mountain scenery and tranquil atmosphere of Bear Lake.

As fall approaches and temperatures begin to cool, fishing in Bear Lake can become particularly productive. Cooler water temperatures trigger changes in fish behavior, leading to increased feeding activity and more aggressive strikes. Fall is an excellent time to target species such as lake trout and cutthroat trout, as they feed heavily in preparation for the winter months. Additionally, fall can also provide opportunities to catch a variety of other freshwater species such as whitefish and yellow perch, making it a favorite season among anglers in the Bear Lake area.

What types of fishing are popular in Bear Lake?

Fishing in Bear Lake offers anglers a diverse range of fishing experiences, from shore fishing to boat fishing and everything in between. Shore fishing is popular along Bear Lake's many beaches, where anglers can cast lines from the shoreline or wade into the shallows to target species such as lake trout, cutthroat trout, and kokanee salmon. Additionally, the lake's rocky shorelines provide excellent habitat for species like whitefish and yellow perch, offering anglers the chance to reel in a variety of freshwater catches while enjoying the scenic beauty of Bear Lake.

Boat fishing is another favored method for anglers looking to explore the deeper waters of Bear Lake and target trophy-sized fish. Anglers can launch their boats from one of the lake's many boat ramps and venture out into the lake's vast expanse in search of their next big catch. Trolling is a popular technique among boat anglers, allowing them to cover more ground and target species like lake trout and kokanee salmon as they cruise along the lake's surface. Additionally, anglers can use downriggers and other trolling gear to fish at various depths and increase their chances of success.

For those seeking a more adventurous fishing experience, kayak fishing is a favored option in Bear Lake. Anglers can launch their kayaks from designated areas along the shoreline and paddle out into the lake's calm waters to explore secluded coves and rocky outcrops. Kayak fishing allows anglers to access remote fishing spots that are inaccessible by boat or shore, providing them with the opportunity to enjoy the peaceful solitude of Bear Lake while reeling in their next big catch. Whether fishing from shore, boat, or kayak, Bear Lake offers anglers a diverse range of fishing experiences amidst the stunning beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

What species are popular in Bear Lake?

Bear Lake, nestled in the scenic Rocky Mountains, offers anglers an abundance of fishing opportunities with a variety of freshwater species to target. Among the most sought-after catches in Bear Lake are lake trout, known for their size and fighting spirit. Anglers can target these trophy-sized fish year-round, with some of the best catches occurring during the spring and fall seasons. Additionally, Bear Lake is home to cutthroat trout, which can also grow to impressive sizes and provide anglers with exciting battles as they reel in these prized catches.

Another popular species to catch in Bear Lake is the kokanee salmon, which are abundant in the lake's deep waters. Kokanee salmon provide anglers with thrilling fights and are known for their vibrant colors, making them a favorite among anglers seeking a picturesque catch. Anglers can target kokanee salmon using a variety of techniques, including trolling with downriggers or fishing with bait and lures at different depths. These salmon are particularly active during the summer months, providing anglers with excellent fishing opportunities throughout the season.

In addition to lake trout, cutthroat trout, and kokanee salmon, Bear Lake also offers opportunities to catch a variety of other freshwater species such as whitefish and yellow perch. These species can be found in the lake's shallower waters and along its rocky shorelines, providing anglers with a diverse range of fishing experiences. Whether casting from shore, boat, or kayak, anglers in Bear Lake can expect exciting opportunities to reel in a variety of fish species amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

Does Bear Lake have good fishing?

Bear Lake, situated on the border of Utah and Idaho, is renowned for its pristine waters and excellent fishing opportunities amidst the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. This natural freshwater lake offers anglers a chance to catch a variety of fish species, including trophy-sized cutthroat trout, lake trout (mackinaw), and whitefish. The lake's clear, deep waters and cool temperatures create ideal conditions for fish growth, making it a favored destination for both local fishermen and tourists seeking a serene fishing experience in a picturesque setting.

Fishing in Bear Lake is characterized by its year-round appeal and the diversity of fishing techniques it supports. Anglers can enjoy shore fishing from various access points around the lake or venture out onto its waters in boats or kayaks. The lake's large size and varied underwater structure, including rocky reefs and deep drop-offs, provide numerous opportunities to explore different fishing spots and strategies. Whether you're trolling near the lake's center or casting from the rocky shorelines, Bear Lake promises a rewarding fishing adventure for anglers of all skill levels.

Beyond its fishing prospects, Bear Lake offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding area. With opportunities for hiking, camping, and enjoying scenic overlooks, Bear Lake invites outdoor enthusiasts to experience the tranquility and majesty of the Rocky Mountain landscape. Whether you're planning a day trip or an extended fishing vacation, Bear Lake provides a memorable escape into nature where fishing and relaxation converge amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Trips in Bear Lake