Not so in the lower tailwater, where flows dwindle to a trickle in the winter and downstream irrigation requirements produce high-water levels for much of the summer. Fishing improves in the lower tailwater below Lost Creek, where more consistent water flows are maintained.

Over the summer, the UDWR conducted a fish survey in the Blue Ribbon tailwater. They found about 1,100 whitefish per mile, 800 brown trout per mile and 30 cutthroat trout per mile.

I would have guessed more. But as fishing guide Larry Culley from Jans Mountain Outfitters in Park City points out, "It isn't that big a river."

Rainbows are scarce, but increase in number near Echo Reservoir.

I generally fish the Weber River between the two reservoirs. Although it's lined by private property, access is good, thanks to agreements reached between the UDWR and local ranchers.

There are some monstrous trout in this stretch of the Weber River. If you're serious about seeing one in your net, use an 8-pound leader.

The river is a well-known fishery, but doesn't attract nearly the number of anglers as the Provo. The water is fast-moving, clear and deep, with a seemingly endless number of perfect holes tucked into the broad meanders.

The fish can be picky and often lie in smaller pockets within these holes. Finding the fish is everything on the Weber River. Once you catch one, usually you will find more close by.

To fish this section, get off Interstate 80 at Wanship about 15 miles east of Park City and follow the paved road north through town.

The road continues near the river all the way to Echo Reservoir. Anglers' access points are clearly marked. Pick your spot and go for it.

Special fishing regulations apply to the Blue Ribbon fishery. Tackle is restricted to artificial-fly or lure only, with a two-fish limit between the I-80 overpasses.

WHAT TO THROW?
In winter, I usually use tandem nymphs. The first is a larger beadhead fly, like a No. 14 Hare's Ear or Pheasant Tail, with a smaller midge tied below. The larger self-sinking fly will sink the smaller fly deep enough to find fish, without having to add additional weight.