Kamas Lake is a small reservoir in Rich County that holds cutthroat trout and offers easy access from Logan

Kamas Lake sits in the Bear River Mountains of northeastern Utah, about 45 minutes east of Logan. The reservoir covers roughly 50 acres and sits at 8,200 feet elevation. It holds cutthroat trout — the native species — and is stocked regularly by Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. The lake is popular with anglers from Cache Valley because the drive is short, the shore is accessible, and the fishing is consistent through the season.

The water is cold year-round and clears by mid-June. Trout here run small to medium — most catches are 8 to 12 inches, with occasional fish to 14 inches. The lake is not a trophy destination, but it is a reliable place to catch fish without traveling far or dealing with crowds.

Key Takeaways

  • Kamas Lake holds stocked cutthroat trout and sits 45 minutes from Logan on a paved road with a developed boat ramp and parking area.
  • The best fishing runs from June through September, after spring runoff clears and water temperatures stabilize.
  • You need a valid Utah fishing license and must follow state regulations, including a two-fish daily limit on cutthroat trout.
  • Spinners, small spoons, and wet flies work well; bait fishing is also productive, especially early and late in the day.
  • The lake has a campground nearby and basic facilities, but no lodging or services on-site.

How to reach Kamas Lake from Logan

From Logan, take US-89 north toward Bear Lake. Continue on US-89 for about 35 miles until you reach the turnoff for Kamas Lake Road (also signed as Forest Road 087). Turn east and follow the paved road for roughly 10 miles. The road climbs steadily but is passable year-round in normal conditions; check with the USDA Forest Service before winter travel, as snow can close it temporarily.

The parking area and boat ramp are at the end of the road. There is a developed launch with a gravel lot that holds 20 to 30 vehicles. No fee is charged to park or launch. The lot fills on weekends during peak season (July and August), so arrive early if you plan to fish Saturday or Sunday.

Seasons and water conditions

Kamas Lake is open to fishing year-round, but the practical season runs June through September. Spring runoff peaks in May and June, turning the water milky and cold. By mid-June, clarity improves and water temperature rises enough for consistent feeding. July and August are the warmest months and often the most productive.

Fall fishing (September through early October) can be excellent as water cools and trout become more active. Winter access is possible but uncommon — the road may be snow-packed, and ice fishing requires checking current conditions with the Forest Service or local tackle shops in Logan.

Water level fluctuates with irrigation demand. The lake is usually full or near full by June and may drop noticeably by late August. This does not affect fishing quality much, but it can make the boat ramp steeper or shallower depending on timing.

What fish are in Kamas Lake and what they eat

Cutthroat trout are the primary species. Utah's native cutthroat is smaller and more aggressive than some strains, which makes them willing to strike small lures and flies. Most fish range 8 to 12 inches; fish over 14 inches are less common but do occur. The lake is stocked annually by UDWR, usually in spring and early summer.

Cutthroat here feed on aquatic insects, small crustaceans, and other fish fry. Spinners in sizes 1 and 2 (especially silver or gold) are reliable. Small spoons like the Kastmaster or Krocodile work well when cast and retrieved steadily. Wet flies — particularly Woolly Buggers and Hare's Ear nymphs — are productive, especially from a boat or float tube. Bait fishing with worms or small minnows is also effective, particularly in early morning or evening.

Fly anglers often fish from the shore or from a float tube. The lake has shallow bays on the north and west sides where wading is possible in summer. A boat or float tube gives you access to deeper water and more consistent fishing throughout the day.

Utah fishing regulations for Kamas Lake

You must have a valid Utah fishing license to fish Kamas Lake. Licenses are sold online through the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website, at sporting goods stores in Logan, and at some gas stations. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you plan only one trip.

The daily limit on cutthroat trout at Kamas Lake is two fish. Minimum size is 6 inches. Bait and artificial lures are both allowed. No special restrictions apply to Kamas Lake beyond statewide rules. Check the current Utah fishing guidebook (available free from UDWR) before you go, as regulations can change year to year.

Facilities and what to bring

Kamas Lake has a boat ramp, parking area, and vault toilets. There is no drinking water, no camp store, and no lodging at the lake itself. A small campground (Kamas Campground) is located nearby and operated by the USDA Forest Service; it has basic sites with fire rings and vault toilets but no hookups. Reservations are not required and sites are first-come, first-served.

Bring your own water, food, and fuel. Cell service is spotty or absent. The nearest town with gas, food, and lodging is Logan, about 45 minutes away. If you plan to fish for a full day, pack lunch and water. In summer, bring sun protection and a hat — the high elevation and open water offer little shade.

A boat or float tube greatly improves your chances, but shore fishing is productive, especially along the north and west banks. If you do not have a boat, bring waders or waterproof boots for wading in the shallows.

Best times to fish and what to expect

Early morning and evening are most productive, particularly in July and August when midday sun slows feeding. Overcast days often produce better fishing than clear, bright days. The lake is usually calm in early morning, making it easier to fish from a float tube or small boat.

Weekdays are quieter than weekends. If you prefer solitude, fish Tuesday through Thursday. July and August draw the most anglers, but the lake rarely feels crowded — you will usually see fewer than a dozen other people even on busy days.

Expect to catch fish consistently if you are fishing the right depth and using appropriate lures or flies. A typical day might yield 5 to 15 fish, depending on conditions and your skill. Most will be 8 to 11 inches, with a few larger fish mixed in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Kamas Lake?

No. Shore fishing is productive, especially along the north and west banks where the bottom is shallow and trout feed. A boat or float tube lets you reach deeper water and fish more efficiently, but many anglers catch fish from shore using spinners or bait.

What is the best lure for Kamas Lake?

Small spinners (sizes 1 and 2) in silver or gold are reliable and easy to use. Small spoons like the Kastmaster also work well. If you fly fish, Woolly Buggers and Hare's Ear nymphs are productive. Bait fishing with worms is simple and effective, especially early and late in the day.

Can I fish Kamas Lake in winter?

The lake is open year-round, but winter access depends on road conditions. Snow can close Kamas Lake Road temporarily. Check with the USDA Forest Service or a local tackle shop in Logan before attempting a winter trip. Ice fishing is possible but uncommon.

How far is Kamas Lake from Logan?

Kamas Lake is about 45 minutes from Logan by car. Take US-89 north for roughly 35 miles, then turn east on Kamas Lake Road and follow it for 10 miles to the lake. The road is paved and passable in normal conditions.

What size fish can I expect to catch?

Most cutthroat trout at Kamas Lake range 8 to 12 inches. Fish over 14 inches are less common but do occur. The lake is stocked regularly, so you have a good chance of catching fish consistently, though they are not large by trophy standards.