Native American History
The area now known as Echo State Park has been home to Native Americans for more than 10,000 years before it was later settled by European pioneers in 1864. The first settlers were primarily farmers who utilized the area’s rich soils and ample water supply to raise cattle, pigs, and horses. Recently, Native Americans of the Ute Tribe have also called Echo State Park home.
The Ute Indians were Hunter-Gatherers who hunted for game like deer, elk, antelope, mountain sheep, and buffalo. They fished the Weber River and ate various fish, clams, frogs, turtles, and mussels. The Ute were also excellent basket makers who wove finely crafted baskets from willow branches to carry food or clothing.
Mormon History
In the late 1800s, Mormon settlers moved to the area and established many small communities. The Mormon pioneers also constructed a large irrigation dam across the Weber River at Echo State Park to irrigate their farms and crops. In the following decades, local farmers and ranchers later used this historic irrigation system.
The Mormons quickly transformed Echo into a farming community. They grew potatoes, corn, wheat, oats, barley, and hay. They also raised sheep and cattle for their own use and traded with other settlers in the area.
Fishing in Echo State Park
The fishing opportunities at Echo State Park draw anglers from near and far. Visitors can take advantage of various species such as perch, bluegill, brown trout, walleye and more. Over the years, Echo State Park has become a well-recognized producer of large trophy brown trout. This is partly due to the reservoir’s current regulations that require anglers to release all fish under 22 inches - making it an excellent destination for novice and experienced anglers alike.