Dolores River Fish Stocking
Utah · 2014–2022 on record
According to Utah DWR — Fish Stocking Events (1979–2024 archive), Dolores River was last stocked April 19, 2022 with Bonytail Chub. Dolores River has 11 stocking records on file, spanning 2014–2022, with about 28,114 fish stocked over that period.
When Dolores River is stocked
By species
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Dolores River
Practical advice on fish behavior, recommended tackle, and state regulations for anglers fishing in Utah.
Post-Plant Behavior & Timing
Hatchery-raised fish are conditioned to pelleted feed and open raceways. Following a release into Dolores River, they typically congregate in schools near public access points, boat ramps, or inlets for the first 24 to 48 hours while adjusting to natural water conditions.
Since Dolores River was last stocked April 19, 2022, anglers visiting within 1 to 2 weeks of a reported event generally experience the highest activity before fish disperse into deeper cover.
State Regulations & Licensing
- •Fishing License: A valid Utah freshwater fishing license is required for anglers age 16 and older.Purchase Utah license online →
- •Official Rules & Limits: Bag limits, bait restrictions, and seasonal boundaries are set by Utah fish & wildlife agency.Official Utah regulations guidebook →
- •Ethical Conservation: Use barbless hooks and keep fish submerged in water during unhooking.
Recommended Tackle & Presentations
Techniques tailored to the species stocked in Dolores River:
Recommended Tackle for Dolores River
Field-tested tackle and presentations matched to the species stocked here.
Aluminum Fishing Pliers with Braid Cutters
Safely removes hooks, pinches split-shot sinkers, and cleanly snips braided, mono, and fluorocarbon lines.
Plano Waterproof Utility Tackle Box Tray (3600)
Keeps terminal tackle, weights, and spinners dry and corrosion-free with customizable compartments.
As an Amazon Associate, StockedWaters earns from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Recommendations are chosen for hatchery-conditioned fish behavior and ethical rigging. We may receive a referral commission if you buy through these links. Read our editorial policy & standards.
Nearby stocked waters
Other stocked waters near Dolores River, freshest activity first.
Dark Canyon Lake
23 miSAN JUAN County · 4 species · 156 records
Last stocked July 2026
Medicine Lake
26 miSAN JUAN County · 2 species · 73 records
Last stocked July 2026
Warner Lake
20 miGRAND County · 1 species · 102 records
Last stocked July 2026
Oowah Lake
21 miGRAND County · 2 species · 131 records
Last stocked July 2026
Dons Lake
16 miGRAND County · 3 species · 140 records
Last stocked June 2026
Hidden Lake
27 miGRAND County · 2 species · 171 records
Last stocked June 2026
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| April 19, 2022 | Bonytail Chub | 1,860 | 9.48" | Utah DWR |
| April 19, 2022 | Bonytail Chub | 1,857 | 9.48" | Utah DWR |
| April 19, 2021 | Bonytail Chub | 1,829 | 10.36" | Utah DWR |
| April 19, 2021 | Bonytail Chub | 1,829 | 10.36" | Utah DWR |
| April 2, 2019 | Bonytail Chub | 3,668 | 10.95" | Utah DWR |
| April 3, 2018 | Bonytail Chub | 1,716 | 10.33" | Utah DWR |
| April 3, 2018 | Bonytail Chub | 1,716 | 10.33" | Utah DWR |
| May 2, 2016 | Bonytail Chub | 2,125 | 9.85" | Utah DWR |
Show 3 more stocking records →
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 2, 2016 | Bonytail Chub | 2,125 | 9.85" | Utah DWR |
| May 21, 2014 | Bonytail Chub | 3,510 | 9.68" | Utah DWR |
| May 21, 2014 | Bonytail Chub | 5,879 | 3.54" | Utah DWR |
Frequently asked
When was Dolores River last stocked?
According to Utah DWR — Fish Stocking Events (1979–2024 archive), Dolores River was last stocked April 19, 2022 with Bonytail Chub.
What fish species are stocked in Dolores River?
Dolores River is stocked with Bonytail Chub.
How often is Dolores River stocked?
Dolores River has been stocked about 1 times a year — 11 recorded stockings between 2014 and 2022.
How many fish have been stocked in Dolores River?
About 28,114 fish have been stocked in Dolores River across 11 recorded events since 2014, per Utah fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Dolores River?
Fish stocked in Dolores River average about 9.5 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Dolores River?
Yes, all anglers age 16 and older generally need a valid Utah freshwater fishing license. Always review current regulations from Utah fish & wildlife agency for site-specific rules, bag limits, or stamps.