However, when you add good access, good numbers of trout and the population base of the Salt Lake City region -- about 2 million strong -- you can bet there will be no shortage of anglers. In fact, Hepworth said that during his research, he hadn’t been able to find any Western river that receives as much fishing pressure as the Provo.

Some of his most recent data show that during the prime fishing season, March through July, anglers spent more than 12,000 hours on the river during the week and an additional 8,000-plus hours on the weekend.

Despite the crowds, anglers still catch large numbers of trout, and this may be the most unique aspect of the Provo.

Now that I’ve got you thinking about finding your own elbowroom on the Provo this season, let’s take a closer look at what it has to offer.

It can be divided into three sections. And although they’re all the same river, each section in this three-in-one system offers distinct differences for the angler to taste.

UPPER PROVO
The upper Provo begins its journey as a trickle high in the Uinta Mountains. This is where the North Fork and South Fork collide with the main stem of the Provo to form this unique fishery. In these upper reaches, the first stretch of public fishing begins.

As the river and its tributaries flow through the scenic Wasatch Cache National Forest, it offers some excellent small-water fishing, complete with trout-filled riffles, runs and pockets.

This freestone holds a healthy population of browns, ‘bows and native cutthroats that range from 6 to 12 inches, and -- as is typical of small-water trout -- they are opportunistic feeders. Having a box full of small dries is a must when you head here because it seems the residents are always looking up.

The best access is found along Mirror Lake Highway, Highway 150, and off Highway 32 out of Woodland. As these roads skirt both the main Provo and the South Fork, access is merely a parking spot away. The North Fork and the other smaller tributaries also offer good access from the numerous Forest Service roads. Because of the abundance of angling opportunities, it’s best to stay several days to get the full flavor. And to help in this adventure, there are 10 campgrounds located along Mirror Lake Highway.

After the Provo leaves the National Forest, it enters several miles of posted private land, and it is extremely difficult to get to. However, if you want to let loose a few greenbacks or let your silver tongue do the work for you, access is possible.

According to guide Harley Jackson of Trout Bum 2 Guide Service, this private stretch of river is incredible. Although his shop doesn’t offer trips there, he’s one of the lucky few who have access. He said that there are some dandy 16- to 18-inch trout in these waters, and some excellent hatches to boot.

Finishing up the upper section is the nearly two miles of access at Rock Cliffs State Park above Jordanelle Reservoir. This stretch of water can be blazing in early spring, around March and April, when the rainbows migrate out of the lake to spawn and then again in late fall, around October and November, when the browns migrate out of the lake to have their turn.