As the leaves start to don their autumn hues across Utah, so too do the local kokanee salmon, embracing a bright crimson as they make their spawning journey. According to Utah wildlife officials, the best time to witness this phenomenon is in September and early October, when these typically silver fish transform into a brilliant red spectacle.
However, for those who plan to partake in this natural event, there are rules: Fishing for kokanee salmon is prohibited from Sept. 10 to Nov. 30 during their spawning season, and disturbing the fish is also a no-go. "Visitors should also not disturb the spawning fish by wading into the water, trying to pick the fish up or allowing their dogs to chase the fish," as per the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. Offenders might face citations, so it's look, don't touch.
One of the prime spots for salmon viewing is Strawberry Reservoir in Wasatch County. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, as mentioned in the same report, is hosting a free event there on September 21 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the U.S. Forest Service visitor center. "Once you arrive at the fish trap, you can ask questions about the salmon and see them up close. It's a great activity for families and is always a unique experience," said Scott Root, DWR Central Region Outreach Manager, as detailed by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. For crowd control and planning purposes, those interested in attending are encouraged to register in advance on Eventbrite.
Other locations ripe for kokanee salmon viewing include the Fish Lake near Richfield, the clear waters of which offer a pristine view, according to Southern Region Outreach Manager Adam Kavalunas. Unfortunately, the date for the event at Fish Lake has not been set, due to the variability of the fish's spawning timetable. Visitors eager to catch this crimson tide in action should also consider venturing to Jordanelle Reservoir and Provo River in Summit County, or the hike-to-only Causey Reservoir in Weber County, where paddleboards and kayaks are the recommended modes of transport.
For Southeastern Utah adventurers, Electric Lake in Emery County offers a prime vantage point in early October, while attendees in the Northeastern part of the state can make a beeline for Sheep Creek in Daggett County. Here, educational trails and bridges provide a great perspective of the fish's upstream struggle. For more information, the wildlife agency's YouTube channel will livestream the event for those who can't make the trip.
