According to a University of Wyoming study, Wyoming consistently ranks as the top state for fly fishing quality, with its rivers supporting up to 5,200 trout per mile in premier locations. Fly fishing in Wyoming offers anglers access to some of the most pristine and productive waters in North America, combining spectacular mountain scenery with exceptional trout populations that thrive in the state’s diverse river ecosystems.
Key Takeaways
- The North Platte River is home to an extraordinary density of 5,200 trout per mile, making it one of Wyoming’s premier fly fishing destinations
- Wyoming’s diverse fisheries include renowned waters like the Bighorn River, Green River system, and Yellowstone Park streams
- Fall and spring seasons typically offer the best fly fishing in Wyoming with fewer crowds and active feeding patterns
- Conservation efforts are critical for preserving Wyoming’s world-class fisheries amid increasing angling pressure
- Professional guides can significantly enhance your fly fishing in Wyoming experience, especially for first-time visitors
North Platte River: The Crown Jewel of Fly Fishing in Wyoming
The North Platte River stands as the undisputed highlight for fly fishing in Wyoming, offering exceptional trout density and remarkable catch rates. According to Wyoming Game and Fish Department data, the Grey Reef section holds an astounding 3.5 tons of trout per mile, translating to approximately 5,200 individual fish. This remarkable concentration makes the North Platte one of the most productive trout fisheries in North America.
The river is primarily known for its robust population of rainbow trout, including the distinctive Snake River cutthroat-rainbow hybrids that frequently reach 18-24 inches. Brown trout numbers have also increased significantly in recent years, with many specimens exceeding 20 inches. The river’s steady flows from dam releases create ideal conditions for fly fishing in Wyoming throughout much of the year.
For anglers targeting the North Platte, the Miracle Mile and Grey Reef sections deserve special attention. These tailwater stretches maintain consistent water temperatures and insect hatches even during winter months, making them excellent year-round destinations for fly fishing in Wyoming. Float trips are particularly effective here, as approximately 85% of the prime water flows through private land with limited wade access.
The Bighorn River: Wyoming’s Consistent Producer
The Bighorn River represents another world-class destination for fly fishing in Wyoming, particularly in the tailwater section below Boysen Reservoir. This nutrient-rich river sustains an impressive population of over 3,000 trout per mile, with fish averaging 14-18 inches according to Wind River Visitor Council surveys.
The Afterbay section is particularly renowned among those seeking trophy specimens when fly fishing in Wyoming. Here, brown trout exceeding 20 inches are relatively common, especially during the spring and fall seasons. The river’s consistent flows and water temperatures create ideal conditions for sustained insect hatches, making it one of the most reliable destinations for fly fishing in Wyoming throughout the year.
When planning your Bighorn River adventure, consider these productive techniques:
- Drift boat tactics using streamers like Woolly Buggers and Muddler Minnows
- Indicator nymphing with Bead-Head Prince Nymphs in sizes 14-18
- Dry fly fishing during blue-winged olive hatches (March-April and October)
- Midge cluster patterns (Griffith’s Gnats) during winter months
The Wedding of the Waters section, where the Bighorn officially begins, offers some of the most accessible wading opportunities for fly fishing in Wyoming. This stretch features numerous public access points and maintains excellent visibility even during periods of higher flow, making it ideal for anglers of all skill levels.
Green River System: Wilderness Fly Fishing in Wyoming
The Green River drainage provides an extraordinary range of fly fishing experiences, from productive tailwaters to pristine wilderness fishing. The system supports approximately 4,000 trout per mile, including cutthroat, rainbow, and brook trout across its various sections and tributaries.
The upper Green River and its tributaries represent some of the finest cutthroat trout waters in the state. These sections flow through spectacular mountain terrain and offer excellent opportunities for anglers seeking a more remote experience while fly fishing in Wyoming. The New Fork River tributaries are particularly noteworthy, hosting trophy cutthroats that regularly reach 18-22 inches.
For those seeking year-round opportunities for fly fishing in Wyoming, the tailwater section below Fontenelle Dam provides consistent flows and temperatures that support fishing throughout all seasons. This stretch is especially productive during winter months when many other Wyoming waters become less accessible due to weather conditions.
Consider these seasonal fly patterns when planning your Green River system adventure:
- Late summer: Terrestrials like hoppers, ants, and Chubby Chernobyls
- Spring: PMD Comparaduns and RS2 Emergers
- Fall: October Caddis imitations and small BWO patterns
- Winter: Midges and small streamers in deeper pools
The headwaters within Bridger-Teton National Forest offer untouched backcountry experiences for those willing to hike. These remote streams provide exceptional fly fishing in Wyoming with minimal pressure and stunning alpine scenery that heightens the overall experience.
Yellowstone Waters: Unique Opportunities for Fly Fishing in Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park contains some of Wyoming’s most distinctive and productive fly fishing destinations. The park’s diverse aquatic ecosystems provide a range of experiences, from spring creek-like meadow sections to tumbling mountain streams, all set amid the park’s incomparable natural beauty.
The Firehole River stands out as a truly unique destination for fly fishing in Wyoming due to its geothermal influences. Water temperatures typically run 5-7°F above regional norms because of hot spring inputs, enabling distinct insect hatches even during winter months. These sulfide-tolerant insect species support trout populations in conditions where other rivers would fail to maintain fish.
For those seeking a more remote Yellowstone fly fishing experience, Slough Creek offers exceptional opportunities in its famed meadow sections. The Second Meadow area holds over 2,000 native Yellowstone cutthroat trout per mile, with many fish exceeding 20 inches. However, accessing these prime areas requires a 6-mile hike, which reduces fishing pressure but demands proper preparation.
When planning for fly fishing in Wyoming’s Yellowstone waters, remember these important considerations:
- The park requires barbless hooks and catch-and-release for native species
- Bear safety awareness is essential for backcountry fishing safety
- The season typically runs from Memorial Day weekend through early November
- Early season can bring high water, while late summer offers ideal conditions
The Lamar River and its tributaries provide another outstanding option for fly fishing in Wyoming’s Yellowstone region. These waters host some of the purest genetic strains of native Yellowstone cutthroat trout, making them particularly valuable from both an angling and conservation perspective.
Mountain Lakes: Hidden Gems for Fly Fishing in Wyoming
Wyoming’s high mountain lakes represent some of the state’s most underappreciated destinations for fly fishing. These alpine gems offer spectacular scenery and excellent fishing opportunities away from the more heavily trafficked rivers and streams.
The Wind River Range alone contains over 1,300 lakes, many of which support healthy populations of golden trout, brook trout, and cutthroat trout. These waters provide outstanding opportunities for fly fishing in Wyoming during the summer months when they become accessible after the snowmelt. According to Summit Post geographic surveys, nearly 60% of these lakes hold self-sustaining trout populations.
Several mountain lake fly fishing destinations stand out for their exceptional quality:
- Golden Lake in the Beartooth Range (golden trout up to 18 inches)
- Cook Lakes in the Wind River Range (brook and cutthroat trout)
- Solitude Lake in the Bighorn Mountains (rainbow and brook trout)
- Medicine Bow Lakes in the Snowy Range (cutthroat and golden trout)
When planning a mountain lake expedition for fly fishing in Wyoming, timing becomes critical. Most high-elevation lakes remain inaccessible until July, with peak fishing typically occurring in August and early September. During this window, terrestrial patterns like ants and beetles prove particularly effective, as do small attractor patterns like Parachute Adams and Stimulators.
Conservation Challenges for Wyoming’s Trout Waters
The future of fly fishing in Wyoming depends heavily on responsible angling practices and environmental stewardship. According to an NSF-funded study, climate change projections forecast a 17% reduction in trout growth rates by 2060 across many Wyoming watersheds, primarily due to warming water temperatures and altered flow regimes.
Visitor pressure represents another significant challenge. The North Platte’s Grey Reef section alone received over 18,000 angler visits in 2023, translating to more than 85,000 fishing hours. This increased fishing pressure has led to concerning trends in hook-related injuries among trout populations, with approximately 24% of North Platte trout showing evidence of serious hooking injuries.
In response, the Wyoming Game & Fish Commission has implemented several conservation measures for fly fishing in Wyoming:
- Mandatory circle hooks on 32 river miles of the North Platte
- Catch-and-release regulations on designated blue-ribbon sections
- Seasonal closures to protect spawning periods
- Stream habitat improvement projects on degraded sections
As an angler, you can support sustainable fly fishing in Wyoming by choosing guided services that emphasize conservation practices, practicing proper catch-and-release techniques, and staying informed about current regulations and concerns. The economic impact of fly fishing in Wyoming exceeds $80 million annually, providing strong incentive to preserve these valuable resources for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time for fly fishing in Wyoming?
The prime seasons for fly fishing in Wyoming are typically late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October). These periods offer ideal water conditions, active feeding patterns, and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. However, tailwaters like the North Platte and Bighorn provide excellent year-round opportunities, with winter fishing often producing surprising results in these sections.
Do I need a guide for fly fishing in Wyoming?
While not strictly necessary, hiring a guide significantly enhances your fly fishing experience in Wyoming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the waters. Local guides provide valuable knowledge about access points, effective fly patterns, current hatches, and conservation regulations. For first-time visitors or those targeting trophy fish, the investment in guided services typically proves worthwhile, with rates ranging from $450-$650 per day depending on the location and trip type.
What fly fishing gear should I bring to Wyoming?
For most Wyoming trout waters, a 9-foot 5-weight rod serves as the ideal all-around choice. However, bring a 6-weight for larger rivers like the North Platte when targeting bigger fish or fishing in windy conditions. Pack both floating and sink-tip lines, leaders in 3X-5X, and a diverse fly selection including mayfly patterns, caddis imitations, terrestrials, and various nymphs. Don’t forget quality polarized sunglasses, wading gear appropriate for the season, and bear spray when fishing in backcountry areas.
Are there special regulations for fly fishing in Wyoming?
Yes, Wyoming maintains specific regulations that vary by water. Many premier sections operate under special management designations with catch-and-release rules, artificial lures only restrictions, or modified possession limits. Yellowstone National Park requires barbless hooks and prohibits felt-soled wading boots. Always check current regulations through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department before fishing, as rules may change annually and vary significantly between different river sections.
Where can I find accessible fly fishing in Wyoming for beginners?
The Wedding of the Waters section on the Bighorn River offers excellent beginner-friendly access with relatively easy wading and consistent trout populations. The Green River below Fontenelle Dam provides similar advantages with good public access points. In Yellowstone, the Madison River near West Yellowstone features accommodating wade fishing areas. For those seeking guided instruction, the Casper area on the North Platte offers numerous outfitters specializing in beginner lessons combined with productive fishing.
What are the largest trout caught while fly fishing in Wyoming?
Wyoming’s waters have produced remarkable trophy trout. The state record brown trout exceeds 34 inches and 25 pounds, caught in the North Platte River. The Grey Reef section regularly produces rainbow trout in the 22-26 inch range. The Bighorn River is known for brown trout exceeding 24 inches. While these trophies remain exceptional, many Wyoming waters consistently produce trout in the 16-20 inch class, making the state a premier destination for anglers seeking quality over quantity.
Sources:
Drifhook – Top 25 Places to Fly Fish in Wyoming
Wyoming Fishing Company – Guided Trips
TroutTrickers – North Platte River Guide
North Fork Anglers – Yellowstone Trips
UWyo – Trout Conservation Study
CrazyRainbow – Wyoming Stream Data
WyoFile – North Platte Injuries