Governor Dern Lake Fishing in Summit County, Utah

• Overview

  Governor Dern Lake is a Summit County water, Utah side. It sits in lake country bush. Roughly 32 acres: a morning covers one end, an afternoon the other. On our Summit County list it sits near the top for size. The nearest place of any size is Kamas, 25 miles away. The nearest city of size is Provo, 53 miles away. One jurisdiction covers this water end to end.

• Where to Fish on Governor Dern Lake

  Depth is not on record here, so the bank has to tell you. Read the surface for the wind lane, then fish the edge of it. Still water like this holds fish on the edges rather than out in the open. Species logged across Summit County include brown trout, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brook trout and Utah sucker. The county figures include rivers and lakes alike. On Governor Dern Lake a short move beats a long cast.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 55°F, the coldest about 18°F. Expect a real winter and a strong spring after it. The open season starts with the thaw, near enough early June. Open water usually runs from early June until about mid November. From the thaw to midsummer the fishing improves week by week. It sets the rhythm of the year at Governor Dern Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether the bank is open is not something our records settle. Public mapping records no formal access here, so plan for a walk and soft ground. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Local rules can differ across the county line, so check where you stand. Some stretches are reserved and marked as such on the ground. If the gate is shut, Pinto Lake at 0.6 miles is the nearest alternative. Signs at Governor Dern Lake carry more weight than any list.