There’s no shortage of amazing things to do in and around Capitol Reef National Park during your stay in Torrey UT hotels. Hiking is one of the most popular ways to experience the national park. But you can also enjoy a scenic drive, go canyoneering, or do some stargazing during your visit.
When you book a stay at Cougar Ridge, you’ll also get to enjoy our many on-site activities and amenities. Cool off in our brand-new pool, say hello to our resident ranch animals, or rent an e-bike to zip around the property or into Torrey.
While hiking or enjoying a day at our resort are great ways to spend your time, there are also some unexpected activities you can enjoy during your stay. One is an outing with the Fremont River Guides.
When most people think about visiting the red rock deserts of Southern Utah, the last thing that they think about is fishing. However, less than 30 minutes from Capitol Reef, the Fremont River’s cool waters are teeming with fish. Keep reading to learn more about this unique off-site activity, and how to plan an afternoon or full day of fishing during your stay in the best Torrey UT hotels.
Enjoy a Day of Fishing With the Fremont River Guides
Fremont River Guides is a fishing excursion provider based in Torrey, Utah. For more than 20 years, the company has been helping visitors to the region experience an incredible fishing trip in picturesque Southern Utah.
While much of the region is covered in red rock desert, the Fremont River flows through Capitol Reef National Park, creating watersheds that draw a variety of wildlife, including mule deer and bighorn sheep. Some fish you might catch during an excursion from our Cougar hotels include rainbow trout, Colorado River cutthroat, Bonneville cutthroat, grayling, slake hybrid, and tiger trout hybrid.
Upper Fremont
The river has three main sections. The upper section starts just below the Johnson Reservoir. From there, the river flows through more than seven miles of forest service land before arriving in the Mill Meadow Reservoir.
The waters are a haven for fishermen, with cool water flowing from the Johnson Reservoir to the north breeding strong brown trout. But they can be tough to fish without an experienced guide because they’re filled with overgrown vegetation and fallen trees.
Middle Fremont
The middle section of the Fremont River is home to brown, rainbow, and slake trout. Here, the river winds though the Fremont Valley, including straight through the towns of Fremont, Lyman, and Loa.
Much of this section flows through private land, with only a small amount of public access.
Lower Fremont
The lower section of the Fremont begins downriver from the town of Bicknell. This scenic stretch of river passes through the town of Torrey, and is just five minutes from the entrance to the national park and Torrey Utah rentals.
The Fremont River flows for around 20 miles before entering Capitol Reef National Park. This section of the river is also largely private land. But with a guide, you can access many of these outstanding fishing spots.
What to Expect on the Day of Your Excursion
Guests can choose from several fishing excursions during their stay in Torrey hotels. If you’re short on time, opt for a half day excursion. Or, spend an entire day exploring the beautiful river. You can even enjoy a UTV fishing excursion, going off-road to get to the best fishing spots.
On the day of your fishing excursion, an experienced guide will take you to the best fishing spots, help you get away from the crowds, derange knots, tie on flies, and much, much more. Whether you’re an experienced fisherman or want someone to net your fish and show you the ropes, you can fully customize your experience.
Your guide will bring everything you need for a successful day on the water. But there are a few things you’ll need to bring along. Polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, hats, socks and pants to wear in your waders or lightweight, fast-drying summer clothes are all must-haves. You’ll also need to purchase a Utah fishing license ahead of your excursion.
Planning Your Next Stay in Torrey UT Hotels
If you have a fishing enthusiast in your travel group or you want to have a unique experience during your stay in the best Torrey UT hotels, a fishing excursion is a great choice. Guided fishing trips from Fremont River Guides allow anyone, regardless of experience, to enjoy a day or afternoon casting a line in beautiful Southern Utah.
Ready to start planning your next adventure at Cougar Ridge? Now is a great time to book your stay! When you book a stay of three or more nights before September 30, you’ll enjoy a 25 percent discount on your stay. Book today to take advantage of these savings!