There is a benefit to using two poles while fishing. You can try two different kinds of bait at the same time, or the same bait in two different ways. You can also cast one pole out with bait, and let it set while you cast a second pole with a lure such as a jig or spinner. This way you can be actively fishing, which can help if you get bored if the fishing is slow, but you increase your odds by leaving a pole out there with bait on it at all times.
Beginning on January 1, 2007, the state of Utah now allows fishing with a second pole in all open Utah fishing waters. Make sure that you obtain a valid Second Pole Permit in addition to the proper regular fishing license. Both fishing licenses and Second Pole permits are good for 365 days from the purchase of the license or permit, no matter when it is purchased. A second pole permit is not valid unless you also have a valid current Utah 1 day, 7 day or 365 day fishing license.
Directly from the 2007 Utah Fishing Guide:
Fishing with a second pole
If you have a valid second pole permit, and a valid fishing or combination license, you can fish with two poles at any water in
the state during its open fishing season. You may keep only one limit of fish, however. A second pole permit does NOT allow you to
keep two limits of fish.
Second pole permits are available for $15 at wildlife.utah.gov and from license agents and Division offices.
A second pole permit is a 365-day permit, but you must also have an unexpired one-day, seven-day or 365-day Utah fishing or combination
license in order to use it (a second pole permit is not valid unless it’s accompanied by a valid fishing or combination license).
Only the person to whom the second pole permit is issued can use the permit.
If you’re under 14 years of age and would like to fish with a second pole, you must have a valid one-day, seven-day or 365-day
Utah fishing or combination license, and a second pole permit.
When fishing with a second pole, you must be within sight of the equipment you’re fishing with (this distance cannot exceed 100 feet).
Utah Admin. Code R657-13-7
License Requirements & Rules:
- A Second Pole Permit may be obtained for a $15 fee through the Division's Website, from online license agents and Division offices.
- A Second Pole Permit is required in addition to a valid Utah 1-day, 7-day, or 365-day fishing or combination license.
- A Second Pole Permit is an annual permit, but may only be used in conjunction with an unexpired Utah 1-day, 7-day or 65-day fishing or combination license.
- Anglers under 14 years of age must purchase a valid Utah 1-day, 7-day or 365-day fishing or combination license and Second Pole Permit in order to use a second pole.
