Rose Valley Reservoir in Iron County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Rose Valley Reservoir is listed under Iron County, Utah. The surface lies 5,758 feet up. The whole thing is a single swim; walk it in a minute. It is a small entry by Iron County standards. The closest town, Enterprise, is 23 miles away. Pioche follows at 25 miles, then Caliente at 29 miles. This one is safely inside the county line.

• Where to Fish on Rose Valley Reservoir

  Depth here is unknown, so count the lead down before committing. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. Where the bottom changes texture, fish gather; find that line. Public occurrence data for Iron County names rainbow trout, brook trout, black-spotted cutthroat trout, smallmouth bass and Arctic grayling. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. The shape of Rose Valley Reservoir rewards a slow walk along one bank.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate normals give 71°F for July and 28°F for January. The season stretches long at both ends here. In milder years the edges alone go, and the middle never sets. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. Time your trip to Rose Valley Reservoir by conditions rather than dates.

• Tackle & Baits

  The rules here are undocumented as far as public sources go. Nothing is mapped in the way of a ramp or car park within a short radius. Largemouth respond to soft plastics tight to cover; go weedless where the growth is heavy. Take the rules with you rather than trusting memory. Close seasons apply to some species and not others. Should this one be busy, Modena Draw Reservoir is 7.5 miles off. For Rose Valley Reservoir in particular, ask before you travel.