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Fishing the Wild Strawberry River |
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The water flowing from Soldier Creek Dam into the wild Strawberry River is clear and cold, even during the heat of the summer. It supports a good population of large browns and cutthroats. If managed properly, this stream could become a "little Green River," offering excellent fishing for trophy-sized trout. Land along this section of stream was purchased from private landowners a few years ago by The Nature Conservancy. TNC turned the land over to the Bureau of Reclamation, and it is now managed for public use by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. The new public access begins above the Camelot property, less than a mile above the Strawberry Pinnacles (the confluence with Red Creek). It then goes upstream for just over seven miles. Not all of the land is open to public access. Closed sections include a few small pieces of private property and a small section of Indian trust land. The river has been managed as a wild trout fishery and was one of the first waters in Utah to be designated a "Quality Fishing Stream." It is classified as a Class II fishery (a productive stream with high aesthetic value where fishing and other recreational uses should be the primary consideration). Special regulations, such as fishing with artificials only, were instituted in 1966 to preserve its quality. Other regulations and management objectives have been and will be implemented to protect and enhance its wetland and riparian values, to improve the brown and cutthroat trout fisheries, and to enhance the diversity of terrestrial wildlife species. Some of these regulations are part of the agreement with TNC for their help in acquiring the land. Others are identified in the new DWR management plan. New regulations and management plans include no overnight camping, no tree cutting or firewood removal and no off-road vehicle travel ("vehicle" is defined as anything motorized or with gears, including cars, trucks, three-wheelers and mountain bikes). Grazing will be better regulated and existing structures which detract from wildhfe or aesthetic values will either be improved or removed. Capital improvements such as parking facilities, picnic areas and proper signing will be constructed as needed and as money allows. Trash collection and grounds maintenance are not provided, so anglers and hikers are urged to pack out garbage and pick up anything left by someone less considerate. To get to the stretch of river known as the Wild Strawberry, take U.S. Highway 40 and turn south at the Strawberry Pinnacles turnoff, about three miles east of Fruitland and 21 miles west of Duchesne. Follow Red Creek south and watch for the signs to the Camelot property. Drive past the Camelot property until you see a sign identifying the wildlife management area. The next seven miles, excluding the several small sections of private land, are open to the public. Fishing is restricted to artificials only, no bait. Even if you don't fly fish, the area is worth a visit for its wildlife and scenery. With proper management and cooperation from the general public, the Wild Strawberry will continue to be a quality trout stream and a jewel of wildlife habitat for generations to come. |
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