Channel cats do prefer a bit of current so submerged river channels, pump outlets and other moving water spots key action. The literal hotspot for winter cats and walleyes is the "Bubble-up" from the Geneva Steel Company that, unfortunately for the shore bound, is too far from the bank even for surf casters. Other hot spots include the flow from the Jordan River pumps and the entire west bank with decent boat access when ice isn't a problem.
Baits key channel cat action, and recently deceased baitfish work better than the more usual shrimp. If we use the later we use "steelhead shrimp" soaked in the runoff of curing salmon eggs. Lively nightcrawlers air-injected so one end wiggles just off bottom work well for channel catfish and seem to take more walleyes as well. Note that overcast days seem the best bet for both species with dawn and dusk productive it it's bright out. Channel catfish do bite well after dark too if you can figure out a way to stay warm, dry and out of the wind on the bank or in a boat
Gear seems less important than proper locales and fresh bait. Spinning or casting tackle the choice and ten to twelve pound test plus Size 4 hooks rigged with a sliding sinker do the job.
Access on this massive lake depends on ice and snow conditions. The easiest choice with four ramps waits five miles or so out of Provo at Utah Lake State Park that is open year round, and there's wheelchair access from a fishing pier. 801-375-0731. It's a good camper's choice with reasonable wooded, if hardly sheltered and sometimes-breezy camp and RV trailer sites. In winter, if we don't houseboat, we opt for Provo motels!
If road conditions permit the mouth of the Spanish Fork River is a hot spot - ask in Springville for directions - just at the point the current dies in the lake. A big nightcrawlers on a size 3 hook weighted with a small shot can be pitched into the river and allowed to slowly work downstream. Minimum weight and line no heavier than eight-pound test helps feel the extremely light takes usual in the winter.
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