Quick Stats
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Best Fishing Months: March through November
- Primary Species: Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Mountain Whitefish
- River Miles: 7 miles (Dam to Little Hole)
- Access Points: 2 major access points
- Fish Density: 5,000+ trout per mile
Why the Green River A Section Deserves Your Attention
Look, I've fished a lot of water across the country, and I can tell you that the Green River A Section below Flaming Gorge Dam is something special. When people call it the "Aquarium," they're not exaggerating. With over 5,000 trout per mile in crystal-clear water flowing through one of Utah's most stunning red rock canyons, this isn't just fishing—it's an experience that'll stick with you.
I first floated the A Section about eight years ago with a guide who told me, "Christian, prepare yourself for something different." He wasn't kidding. Within the first hour, I'd spotted more trout than I typically see in a full day on most rivers. The water clarity is so incredible that you can literally watch trout rise from 20 feet away, study their feeding behavior, and plan your approach accordingly.
But here's what makes the Green River A Section truly remarkable: it's a tailwater fishery that consistently produces year-round. The river begins just below Flaming Gorge Dam and flows seven miles through a breathtaking canyon to Little Hole, maintaining consistent temperatures and flows that create perfect trout habitat 365 days a year.
Access Points & Float Options
The beauty of the A Section is its simplicity—you've got two main access points that make planning straightforward, whether you're wading or floating.
Flaming Gorge Dam Access
- Location: Directly below Flaming Gorge Dam
- GPS Coordinates: 40.9169° N, 109.4258° W
- Parking: Large paved lot, free
- Facilities: Restrooms, boat ramp
- Best For: Put-in for floats, upper wade fishing
- Notes: Can get crowded during peak season (May-September)
The put-in right below the dam is where most float trips begin. The water here is incredibly clear and cold—typically running 38-45°F year-round thanks to the dam releasing water from deep in the reservoir. This is technical water that demands precise presentations, but the payoff is incredible.
Little Hole Recreation Area
- Location: 7 miles downstream from dam
- GPS Coordinates: 40.8847° N, 109.4669° W
- Parking: Large gravel lot, $5 day use fee
- Facilities: Restrooms, picnic areas, boat ramp, camping
- Best For: Take-out for floats, wade fishing access
- Drive-in Access: Yes, you can drive directly to the river
Little Hole is fantastic because it gives you options. You can drive directly to Little Hole and then hike up or downstream to some great fishing holes, or put in just below the Flaming Gorge dam and float the seven miles down. I've done both, and honestly, each approach has its advantages.
Float Distances & Times
- Full A Section Float: Dam to Little Hole - 7 miles (4-6 hours fishing time)
- Upper Float: Dam to Red Creek Rapids - 3.5 miles (2-3 hours)
- Lower Wade Section: Little Hole area - 1-2 miles of accessible water
What You're Fishing For
The fish population in the A Section is simply outstanding. The latest Utah Division of Wildlife Resources surveys consistently show this section maintaining some of the highest trout densities in the western United States.
Rainbow Trout
- Average per mile: 3,000+
- Size range: 12-20 inches (with fish to 24+ inches)
- Peak activity: Year-round, best during hatches
- Behavior: Aggressive feeders, excellent dry fly targets
The rainbows in the Green are healthy, colorful fish that put up fantastic fights. What I love about them here is their willingness to come to the surface. During good hatches, you'll see fish rising consistently throughout the day.
Brown Trout
- Average per mile: 1,500+
- Size range: 14-22 inches (with legitimate trophies over 25 inches)
- Peak activity: Fall (September-November), low light periods
- Behavior: More selective than rainbows, prefer streamers and large nymphs
The browns are the trophies of the system. They're not easy, but when you connect with a good one, you'll know it immediately. I've had browns on the Green that tested my drag system like no freshwater fish should.
Mountain Whitefish
- Average per mile: 500+
- Size range: 10-16 inches
- Peak activity: Fall through early spring
- Notes: Excellent indicator species, often caught while targeting trout
Don't overlook the whitefish—they're actually a blast to catch and indicate a healthy ecosystem. Plus, they're often active when trout are being finicky.
Seasonal Fishing Guide & Hatch Patterns
The Green River A Section fishes well year-round, but understanding the seasonal patterns will dramatically improve your success. I've fished this river in every month, and each season offers something unique.
Spring (March - May)
Spring on the Green is when everything comes alive. The water temperature starts climbing from the mid-40s toward 50°F, and the fish become increasingly active. This is when I start planning my first trips of the year.
Key Hatches:
- Midges (Chironomidae) - Peak: March-April - Size: 20-24 - Patterns: Zebra Midge, Disco Midge, WD-40
- Blue Winged Olives - Peak: April-May - Size: 18-20 - Patterns: Sparkle Dun, Pheasant Tail, RS2
- March Browns - Peak: Late April-Early May - Size: 14-16 - Patterns: March Brown Comparadun, Hare's Ear
Water Conditions: Flows typically 800-1,200 CFS, water temps 45-55°F Best Approach: Nymph rigs in the morning, dry flies during midday warming
The midge fishing in March and April is absolutely phenomenal. I'm talking about blanket hatches where the surface looks like it's boiling with rising trout. You'll want a good selection of midge patterns in sizes 20-24, and don't be afraid to fish them in tandem.
Summer (June - August)
Summer is when the Green River A Section really shines for dry fly fishing. The water warms to optimal trout feeding temperatures (55-65°F), and the terrestrial season kicks in.
Key Hatches:
- Pale Morning Duns - Peak: June-July - Size: 16-18 - Patterns: PMD Comparadun, Pheasant Tail
- Caddis (Various species) - Peak: June-August - Size: 14-18 - Patterns: Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
- Terrestrials - Peak: July-August - Size: 10-16 - Patterns: Foam Ants, Hoppers, Beetles
Water Conditions: Flows 600-1,000 CFS, water temps 55-65°F Best Times: Early morning and evening for surface activity, nymph fishing during midday heat
Summer evenings on the Green are magical. When the sun starts dropping behind the canyon walls and the caddis start dancing on the water, you'll understand why this river has such a reputation. I've had evenings where every cast to rising fish resulted in a hookup.
Fall (September - November)
Fall is my absolute favorite time on the Green River A Section. The brown trout are aggressive, the weather is perfect, and the canyon scenery is at its peak. This is when I schedule my most serious fishing trips.
Key Patterns:
- Blue Winged Olives - Peak: September-October - Size: 18-22 - Patterns: Sparkle Dun, Pheasant Tail
- October Caddis - Peak: September-Early October - Size: 8-10 - Patterns: Orange Stimulator, October Caddis
- Midges - Peak: October-November - Size: 20-24 - Patterns: Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
Water Conditions: Flows 700-1,200 CFS, water temps 50-60°F Best Approach: Streamer fishing for aggressive browns, dry flies during BWO hatches
The October Caddis hatch is something every angler should experience. These big orange bugs bring up some serious fish, and the action can be absolutely explosive during the peak of the hatch.
Winter (December - February)
Winter fishing on the Green requires dedication, but it offers some of the most technical and rewarding angling of the year. The fish are still there, they're just more selective.
Primary Patterns:
- Midges - Sizes 22-26 - Zebra Midge, Mercury Midge
- Small Nymphs - Sizes 18-22 - Pheasant Tail, Prince Nymph
- Streamers - Sizes 4-8 - Woolly Bugger, Zonker
Water Conditions: Flows 600-900 CFS, water temps 38-45°F Special Considerations: Ice formation, limited daylight, dress warm
Local Patterns & Techniques That Actually Work
After years of fishing the Green River A Section and talking with local guides, I've narrowed down the patterns and techniques that consistently produce. These aren't just any flies—these are the specific patterns that the fish in this system have proven they want.
Must-Have Dry Flies
PMD Comparadun - Size 16-18 This pattern is absolutely deadly during the Pale Morning Dun hatches in June and July. The key is the CDC wing—it rides perfectly in the Green's complex currents. I've had days where this was the only fly I needed.
Sparkle Dun BWO - Size 18-20 For the Blue Winged Olive hatches, nothing beats a well-tied Sparkle Dun. The CDC wing and antron shuck perfectly imitate the emerging mayfly, and the Green River browns absolutely smash this pattern.
Elk Hair Caddis - Size 14-16 A classic that works year-round on the Green. During summer evenings, fish this pattern with confidence. The buoyant elk hair keeps it floating in the complex currents, and the fish recognize it immediately.
Essential Nymphs
Zebra Midge - Size 20-24 If you fish the Green River and don't have Zebra Midges, you're missing out on some of the best fishing of the year. I fish these in black, red, and silver. The key is getting them down in the feeding lanes where the fish are holding.
Pheasant Tail - Size 16-20 This represents multiple insects throughout the season and is probably the most versatile nymph for the Green. I prefer them with bead heads to get down quickly in the deeper runs.
RS2 - Size 18-22 This emerger pattern is fantastic during BWO hatches when fish are keying on insects in the film. Fish it as a trailer behind a larger nymph, and be ready for subtle takes.
Streamer Patterns for Trophy Fish
Woolly Bugger - Size 4-8 The classic streamer that produces big fish on the Green. I prefer olive and black, and I fish them on sinking lines during fall when the browns are aggressive. The key is varying your retrieve—sometimes dead drift, sometimes stripped aggressively.
Zonker - Size 6-10 Rabbit strip streamers are incredibly effective for the large brown trout. The movement in the water drives them crazy, especially during low-light periods.
Proven Techniques
High-Stick Nymphing in the Upper Mile The water immediately below the dam is deep and technical. High-stick nymphing with a tight line allows you to feel every subtle take. Use a two-nymph rig with the larger pattern as an anchor and a smaller pattern as a trailer.
Dry-Dropper Combinations This technique is phenomenally effective on the Green. Use a buoyant dry fly like an Elk Hair Caddis as an indicator, and drop a nymph or emerger 18-24 inches below. Watch the dry fly for takes—sometimes the fish will take the dry, sometimes the nymph.
Streamer Fishing the Deep Holes During fall, focus on the deeper pools and runs with streamers. Use a sinking line or weighted flies to get down where the big browns hold. Fish them aggressively during the first hour of light and the last hour before dark.
Gear That Actually Matters
I've fished the Green River A Section with everything from 3-weights to 6-weights, and here's what I've learned about gear selection.
Rod Recommendations
Primary Choice: 5-weight, 9-foot This is the perfect all-around setup for the Green River A Section. It handles the typical fish sizes well, allows for accurate presentations in the technical water, and has enough backbone for the occasional large brown trout. I prefer a moderate-fast action rod that loads well at close range.
Secondary Choice: 4-weight, 9-foot When the water is low and the fish are spooky, dropping down to a 4-weight can make a significant difference. It's also more enjoyable for the average-sized fish you'll encounter. However, be prepared for longer fights with larger fish.
Specialty Setup: 6-weight, 9-foot For streamer fishing in fall or when targeting large brown trout specifically, a 6-weight gives you the power you need. It's also beneficial when dealing with wind in the canyon.
Reel and Line Considerations
Reel: Match it to your rod weight. A good drag is important for the larger fish, but you don't need anything exotic. I use mid-range reels in the $200-400 range and they've served me well.
Line Selection:
- Weight Forward Floating: Your primary line for 80% of fishing
- Sink Tip or Full Sink: Essential for streamer fishing, especially in fall
- Leaders: 9-12 foot tapered leaders, 4X-6X tippet depending on conditions
Essential Accessories
Quality Waders and Boots The Green River has slippery rocks and varied depth. Felt-soled boots are illegal in Utah, so invest in good rubber-soled wading boots with aggressive tread. I prefer breathable chest waders for versatility.
Net Selection A good net is crucial on the Green. The fish are strong, and you'll be fighting them in current. I recommend a rubber mesh net in the 20-22 inch range—big enough for trophy fish but not unwieldy for average fish.
Fly Storage The hatch diversity on the Green requires organization. I use a combination of fly boxes: one for dry flies (compartmentalized), one for nymphs (flat foam), and one for streamers (large compartments).
What You Don't Need
Extreme Weather Gear: The canyon provides protection from most wind Heavy Tippet: Rarely need anything heavier than 3X except for streamers Excessive Fly Selection: Focus on the proven patterns rather than carrying everything
My Green River A Section Stories
Personal experiences from years of fishing Utah's premier tailwater
The Day That Taught Me Respect
It was my second trip to the Green River A Section, and I thought I had it figured out. Armed with confidence from a successful previous trip, I launched my drift boat at the dam on a beautiful September morning. The water was crystal clear, fish were visibly feeding, and I was ready to dominate.
Three hours later, I had managed exactly two fish. The problem wasn't the fish—they were everywhere. The problem was my approach. I was fishing like I was on my home waters instead of adapting to what the Green River demanded. The fish were incredibly selective, the currents were more complex than they appeared, and my presentations were sloppy.
It was a guide named Tom at Little Hole who set me straight. "Christian," he said, watching me fumble through another poor cast, "this isn't about fishing harder, it's about fishing smarter. These fish see more flies in a day than most fish see in a lifetime."
That conversation changed everything. I started focusing on precise presentations, longer leaders, smaller flies, and reading the water more carefully. By the end of that day, I was consistently hooking fish. More importantly, I gained a deep respect for what makes the Green River A Section special—it's not just the fish density, it's the challenge.
The October Caddis Explosion
Fall 2019 will always be memorable for me. I was floating with a client who had never experienced a true western hatch, and we timed our trip perfectly with the October Caddis emergence.
Around 2 PM, we started seeing the big orange bugs in the air. By 3 PM, they were everywhere. By 3:30 PM, the river came alive in a way I'd never witnessed. Every fish in the river seemed to be feeding, and they weren't being selective—they wanted anything that looked remotely like a caddis.
We tied on Orange Stimulators and went to work. For the next two hours, it was the kind of fishing that makes you understand why people become addicted to this sport. Fish after fish, all healthy rainbows and browns in the 14-18 inch range, with several pushing 20 inches. My client was laughing so hard at one point that he could barely cast.
What made it even more special was watching the fish behavior. These weren't desperate feeding fish—they were confident, aggressive fish that knew their food source. They would inspect the fly, follow it, and then confidently take it. The takes were visual, explosive, and unforgettable.
That day taught me the importance of timing and understanding natural cycles. The Green River A Section can be exceptional any day of the year, but when you hit it during a major hatch, it becomes legendary.
Learning from Failure
Not every day on the Green River is a success story, and those challenging days are often the most educational. I remember a particularly humbling August day when the fish were rising everywhere, but nothing I threw at them worked.
The water temperature was perfect, there was a good BWO hatch happening, and fish were actively feeding. Yet after four hours, I had exactly zero fish to show for my efforts. I was fishing the right patterns, my presentations looked good, and I was covering feeding fish. What was I missing?
It turns out I was missing everything. A local angler who had been watching my struggles finally walked over and politely asked if I wanted some advice. He pointed out that I was fishing 5X tippet when the conditions demanded 6X or 7X. The fish weren't refusing my flies because of pattern or presentation—they were refusing because they could see the tippet.
After switching to 6X tippet and lengthening my leader to 12 feet, I started hooking fish immediately. Same flies, same locations, but now the fish couldn't detect my connection to the fly.
That day taught me that the Green River A Section demands attention to details that might not matter on other waters. The crystal-clear water, the high fish density, and the fishing pressure all combine to create incredibly educated fish. Success requires adapting your approach to meet their standards, not expecting them to lower theirs to meet yours.
Local Resources & Guide Services
The Green River A Section has excellent local support, and these shops and guides have consistently provided quality service and invaluable local knowledge.
Spinner Fall Guide Service
Ask for Colby Crossland he is one of my favorite guides and now a great friend.
- Location: Dutch John, Utah (10 minutes from the dam)
- Phone: (435) 885-3338
- Website: www.spinnerfall.com
- Specialties: Green River A Section expertise, quality equipment
- Services: Guided float trips, wade trips, gear rental, local flies
- Why I recommend them: They know the A Section intimately and understand what makes this water special. The guides are professional, the boats are well-maintained, and they stock all the essential local patterns. I've used them multiple times and have always been impressed with their knowledge and professionalism.
Flaming Gorge Resort
- Location: Dutch John, Utah
- Phone: (435) 889-3773
- Website: www.flaminggorgeresort.com
- Specialties: Full-service resort with guide services
- Services: Guided fishing, lodging, restaurant, fly shop, boat rentals
- Why I recommend them: Perfect for multi-day trips. The convenience of having lodging, dining, and guide services in one location makes trip planning simple. Their guides are experienced on the Green River system, and the resort provides a comfortable base for exploring the area.
Additional Local Resources
- Utah Division of Wildlife Resources: (435) 885-3164 - Current regulations and conditions
- Flaming Gorge Dam Releases: Call (801) 524-3146 for current flow information
- Weather Conditions: Check local forecasts - canyon weather can change quickly
Both of these operations understand the unique challenges and opportunities of the Green River A Section. They stock the right flies, know the current conditions, and can provide insights that make the difference between a good day and a great day.
Licensing & Regulations You Need to Know
Before you fish the Green River A Section, make sure you're properly licensed and understand the current regulations. Utah takes its fishing regulations seriously, and ignorance isn't an excuse.
Required Licenses
- Utah Fishing License: Required for all anglers 12 and older
- Utah Trout Stamp: Required in addition to fishing license
- Total Cost: Resident annual: $34, Non-resident annual: $67, Non-resident 3-day: $32
Where to Purchase
- Online: wildlife.utah.gov (most convenient option)
- Local Retailers: Both Spinner Fall Guide Service and Flaming Gorge Resort sell licenses
- Walmart: Available in Vernal, Utah (45 minutes south)
Green River A Section Specific Regulations
- Bag Limit: 4 trout per day, 8 trout in possession
- Size Restrictions: None currently, but check current proclamation
- Bait Restrictions: Artificial flies and lures only, no bait fishing
- Barbless Hooks: Recommended but not required
- Motor Restrictions: Electric motors only between dam and Little Hole
Important Notes
The regulations can change annually, so always check the current Utah Fishing Proclamation before your trip. The proclamation is available online and at all license retailers. Conservation compliance is taken seriously in Utah, and wardens do patrol the Green River regularly.
Conservation Mindset
The Green River A Section is a world-class fishery that deserves our respect and protection. Practice catch-and-release for larger fish, use barbless hooks when possible, and follow Leave No Trace principles. This fishery exists because of good management and angler cooperation—let's keep it that way.
Getting There from Salt Lake City
The drive to the Green River A Section from Salt Lake City is part of the adventure. You'll travel through some spectacular Utah scenery, and the anticipation builds as you get closer to the famous red rock canyon country.
Primary Route (Recommended)
Distance: 295 miles Driving Time: 4.5-5 hours
Detailed Directions:
- Take I-80 East from Salt Lake City for 148 miles to I-84 East
- Follow I-84 East for 52 miles to I-80 East again
- Take I-80 East for 4 miles to US-189 North toward Heber City
- Follow US-189 North for 91 miles through scenic Provo Canyon and past Strawberry Reservoir
- Turn left (west) on US-40 West and drive 28 miles to Vernal
- From Vernal, take US-191 North for 25 miles to Flaming Gorge Dam
This route takes you through some beautiful country, including Provo Canyon and past Strawberry Reservoir. The road is good year-round, though winter driving requires caution and appropriate tires.
Alternative Route (Faster but less scenic)
Distance: 280 miles Driving Time: 4.25 hours
Take I-80 East to I-84 East to I-84 West to US-30 East to US-191 North. This route is faster but bypasses much of the scenic mountain driving. Consider this option if you're focused on getting to the river quickly rather than enjoying the journey.
What to Expect
- Gas: Fill up in Salt Lake City or Vernal. Limited services between major towns
- Cell Service: Sporadic in the mountains, reliable in Vernal and Dutch John
- Weather: Mountain weather can change quickly. Check conditions before departure
- Road Conditions: Generally good, but winter travel may require chains or 4WD
Local Accommodations
Flaming Gorge Resort
- Distance: 5 minutes from dam access
- Price Range: $100-200/night depending on season
- Amenities: Restaurant, fly shop, guide services, boat rentals
- Why I recommend it: One-stop convenience for serious anglers
Red Canyon Lodge
- Distance: 3 miles from dam access
- Price Range: $120-250/night
- Amenities: Historic lodge, restaurant, cabins
- Why I recommend it: Beautiful setting, excellent food, classic lodge experience
Camping Options:
- Little Hole Campground: Right on the river at the take-out
- Deer Run Campground: 2 miles from the dam
- Dispersed Camping: Available in Ashley National Forest areas
Local Dining After a Day on the Water
Red Canyon Lodge Restaurant
- Cuisine: American steakhouse
- Why go: Excellent steaks, great atmosphere, perfect after a long day fishing
- Reservations: Recommended during peak season
Flaming Gorge Resort Restaurant
- Cuisine: Casual American
- Why go: Convenient location, good food, angler-friendly atmosphere
Final Thoughts on the Green River A Section
After fishing the Green River A Section for nearly a decade, I can confidently say it deserves its reputation as one of America's premier trout fisheries. The combination of incredible fish density, stunning scenery, and year-round fishing opportunities creates an experience that few rivers can match.
What sets the Green River A Section apart isn't just the numbers—though 5,000+ trout per mile is pretty impressive. It's the complete package: crystal-clear water that allows you to sight-fish to individual trout, a variety of hatches that keep things interesting throughout the season, and fish that are both abundant and challenging enough to test your skills.
The river teaches you to be a better angler. The fish are educated, the water is technical, and success requires attention to detail. You can't just chuck flies at rising fish and expect consistent results. You need to think about your approach, study the water, match your tactics to the conditions, and respect the intelligence of these fish.
But here's what I love most about the Green River A Section: it rewards preparation and punishes laziness. Do your homework, bring the right gear, fish the right patterns with the right techniques, and you'll have incredible success. Show up unprepared with a random selection of flies and poor presentation skills, and you'll struggle regardless of how many fish are in the river.
For those planning their first trip, my advice is simple: hire a guide for at least half a day, focus on learning rather than just catching fish, and come prepared to be challenged. The Green River A Section will humble you, teach you, and ultimately make you a better angler.
This fishery exists because of excellent management, perfect habitat conditions, and a community of anglers who care about its future. Let's all do our part to keep it that way. Practice good catch-and-release techniques, respect the resource, and remember that we're guests in this incredible ecosystem.
For more detailed fishing guides, technique discussions, and conversations with expert anglers, make sure to subscribe to the Fly Fishing Insider Podcast. Until next time, tight lines and good fishing!
About the Author
Christian Bacasa is the host of the Fly Fishing Insider Podcast, where he shares insights, techniques, and stories from fly fishing destinations around the world. With extensive experience on western tailwaters and a passion for helping anglers improve their skills, Christian brings both technical expertise and practical advice to his fishing guides and podcast episodes.
Connect with Christian:
- Fly Fishing Insider Podcast: Available on all major podcast platforms
- Website: www.ffipodcast.com
- Instagram: @flyfishinginsiderpodcast @dupeafish
- YouTube: Fly Fishing Insider Podcast
Last Updated: July 2025 River conditions and regulations subject to change. Always verify current conditions and regulations before your trip.
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