If you’re looking for a great place to fish this winter, look no further than Casper, Wyoming, which is situated beside the North Platte River and the perfect place to float, wade, or fly fish for trout no matter what time of year it is. Named the number one Big Fish Destinations by American Angler Magazine, Casper offers beauty and abundant fishing that make it the destination on most anglers bucket lists.
Wintering fish feed on a hardy mixture of insects and make nymphing productive this time of year. Consider streamer fishing Miracle Mile or dry-fly fishing Grey Reef. Winter fishing draws fewer crowds and calm conditions make the potential for big catches worth it. While you’re in Casper this winter, check out some of the best fishing spots located in Wyoming’s rugged country. The trout may be biting year-round, but winter fishing promises an unforgettable experience.
North Platte River
Located in town, the historic North Platte is a freestone river whose abundant bug life and ecosystem make it an ideal location for fly fishing year-round. A great river for novice and expert anglers, the North Platte boasts an average of 4,000 fish per mile. In winter, wade fishing is great here since less windy conditions make for easier casting. Locals recommend checking out the stretch downstream from the Tate Pumphouse.
Miracle Mile
The name is deceiving since this section of the North Platte runs anywhere from 5.5 to 15 miles depending on water levels. Featuring plenty of camping and access points, this fertile tailwater is sandwiched between the Seminoe and Pathfinder reservoirs. Located in isolated, rugged country, the Miracle Mile offers year-round catches, but fly fishing for brown or cutthroat trout is best in late October through December.
Pathfinder Reservoir
Surrounded by granite canyon and 117 miles of rocky shoreline, the Pathfinder Reservoir is an ideal location to fish for brown trout, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, ohrid trout and walleye. A popular ice fishing destination, Pathfinder hosts the annual HAWG ice fishing derby in January.
Grey Reef
A little farther out of town is the Grey Reef section of the North Platte River. Come here in February to wade fish for rainbow trout or fly fish April through June. Grey Reef is situated in desert country with little cover from the elements, so come prepared for changing conditions. Grey Reef offers plenty of access points for fishing and nearby lodging if it gets too chilly.
Alcova Reservoir
Covering over 2,470 surface acres and located 35 miles southwest of Casper, Alcova Reservoir is home to some of Wyoming’s best ice fishing. Anglers find plenty of rainbow and brown trout, kokanee salmon and walleye in these waters. Find shelters and restrooms at Black Beach, or head downstream via boat, kayak or canoe to fish Fremont Canyon.
Casper, Wyoming offers some of the best trout fishing in the lower 48, and some of the best fall and winter fishing around. This winter, pack your tackle box and load your rod to take advantage of Casper’s abundant catches and breathtaking scenery.
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