Is Bowfishing Legal at Utah Lake?
Yes. In Utah, archery equipment (bows, crossbows) can be used to take nongame fish, including common carp, in most waters. Utah Lake is one of the best bowfishing destinations in the state due to the massive carp population and no bag limits on carp. You need a valid Utah fishing license to bowfish.
Critical Regulation: Night Bowfishing Tributary Closure
Utah Lake tributaries are closed to bowfishing at night (sunset to sunrise) from May 7 through July 9. This closure protects spawning June Sucker, an endangered native species. This applies to all tributaries flowing into Utah Lake, including the Provo River, Spanish Fork River, Hobble Creek, and others.
Night bowfishing on the main lake body is still permitted during this period. See the full regulations page for details.
Night Bowfishing Rules
Night bowfishing is legal in most Utah waters and is one of the most productive methods for carp. You are allowed to use spotlights and other artificial lights to spot fish. Key rules:
- Spotlights and LED light bars are allowed from boats and shore
- Green submersible lights attract baitfish and carp to your area
- Polarized sunglasses help during dusk; at night, rely on your lights
- Exception: Utah Lake tributaries closed at night May 7 - July 9
Gear Recommendations
Bow Setup
- Recurve bow (30-50 lb draw) -- most popular choice
- Compound bow with 40-50% let-off works well
- Bowfishing-specific reel (spincast or retriever)
- Heavy fiberglass arrows with barbed tips
- 200 lb+ braided bowfishing line
Night Gear
- Halogen or LED spotlight (1M+ candlepower)
- Green submersible fishing lights
- Headlamp for hands-free work
- 12V battery or generator for lights
- Bug spray (summer evenings)
Crossbow & Airgun Rules
Utah also permits crossbows and airguns for taking nongame fish like carp. Crossbows follow the same rules as bows for bowfishing purposes. Airguns are a newer option gaining popularity -- they're effective in shallow water from an elevated platform. Handheld spears and underwater spearfishing are also legal methods for carp at Utah Lake. See the complete list of allowed methods.
Best Bowfishing Spots at Utah Lake
American Fork Marina Flats
The shallow flats extending north from the marina are prime bowfishing water. Carp cruise the 2-4 foot shallows in huge numbers during spring. Accessible from shore or by boat. Night bowfishing is excellent here.
Provo Bay
Warm, shallow water that attracts massive numbers of spawning carp in spring. Wade fishing with a bow is possible in many areas. During the May-July tributary closure, stick to the main bay area at night.
Lincoln Beach Shoreline
The west shore offers long, wadeable stretches where carp feed in shallow water. Less foot traffic than the east side. A good option when east-side spots are crowded on tournament days.
Bird Island / Goshen Bay (South End)
Boat-access only but consistently productive. The south end of Utah Lake has extensive shallows and is less pressured. Night bowfishing from a fan-powered boat here can produce huge numbers.
Tips for Success
Aim Low
Light refraction makes fish appear higher in the water than they actually are. Always aim below where you see the fish. The deeper the water, the more you need to compensate.
Move Slowly
Whether wading or on a boat, slow and steady movement keeps carp from spooking. Use a trolling motor or push pole rather than a gas engine.
Best Conditions
Calm, clear water with minimal wind. Overcast days reduce glare. Night shoots are most productive on warm, windless evenings when carp are active in the shallows.
Bring Extra Arrows
You will lose arrows. Carry at least 6-8. Check your line and barb after every shot -- Utah Lake's bottom can dull points quickly.
Know About the Great Carp Hunt?
Bowfishing teams tend to dominate the Great Carp Hunt tournament. If you haven't looked into it, the $1.50 per fish bounty makes it worth checking out.