San Rafael River Fish Stocking
Utah · 2014–2023 on record
According to Utah DWR — Fish Stocking Events (1979–2024 archive), San Rafael River was last stocked April 18, 2023 with Bonytail Chub. San Rafael River has 12 stocking records on file, spanning 2014–2023, with about 20,179 fish stocked over that period.
When San Rafael River is stocked
San Rafael River is typically stocked in spring, most often in April — 7 stocking events in that peak month.
By species
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for San Rafael 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 San Rafael 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 San Rafael River was last stocked April 18, 2023, 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 San Rafael River:
Recommended Tackle for San Rafael 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 San Rafael River, freshest activity first.
Blue Lake
15 miSANPETE County · 5 species · 142 records
Last stocked July 2026
May Day Pond
53 miGARFIELD County · 2 species · 12 records
Last stocked July 2026
Warner Lake
54 miGRAND County · 1 species · 102 records
Last stocked July 2026
Oowah Lake
55 miGRAND County · 2 species · 131 records
Last stocked July 2026
Hidden Lake
40 miGRAND County · 2 species · 171 records
Last stocked June 2026
Weaver Reservoir
43 miGRAND County · 3 species · 20 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 18, 2023 | Bonytail Chub | 1,887 | 10.56" | Utah DWR |
| April 18, 2023 | Bonytail Chub | 1,888 | 10.55" | Utah DWR |
| April 21, 2021 | Bonytail Chub | 1,358 | 10.07" | Utah DWR |
| April 21, 2021 | Bonytail Chub | 1,358 | 10.07" | Utah DWR |
| April 20, 2021 | Bonytail Chub | 1,003 | 10.07" | Utah DWR |
| April 8, 2020 | Bonytail Chub | 1,774 | 10.08" | Utah DWR |
| April 8, 2020 | Bonytail Chub | 1,773 | 10.08" | Utah DWR |
| May 15, 2016 | Bonytail Chub | 1,991 | 9.85" | Utah DWR |
Show 4 more stocking records →
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 15, 2016 | Bonytail Chub | 1,991 | 9.85" | Utah DWR |
| May 29, 2014 | Bonytail Chub | 3,596 | 9.68" | Utah DWR |
| May 29, 2014 | Bonytail Chub | 780 | 9.68" | Utah DWR |
| May 29, 2014 | Bonytail Chub | 780 | 9.68" | Utah DWR |
Frequently asked
When was San Rafael River last stocked?
According to Utah DWR — Fish Stocking Events (1979–2024 archive), San Rafael River was last stocked April 18, 2023 with Bonytail Chub.
What fish species are stocked in San Rafael River?
San Rafael River is stocked with Bonytail Chub.
What time of year is San Rafael River stocked?
San Rafael River is typically stocked in spring, most often in April.
How often is San Rafael River stocked?
San Rafael River has been stocked about 1 times a year — 12 recorded stockings between 2014 and 2023.
How many fish have been stocked in San Rafael River?
About 20,179 fish have been stocked in San Rafael River across 12 recorded events since 2014, per Utah fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in San Rafael River?
Fish stocked in San Rafael River average about 10.0 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish San Rafael 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.