August 22, 2024
Written by Mandy Fabel / Photos by Jake Perkinson
It’s the angler or hunter’s trip of a lifetime. A chance to fish in a remote wilderness stream and pull a golden trout out of crystal clear waters. Or the chance to camp deep in the mountains as you hunt elk, deer or other species. Whether you are brand new to these activities, or you have been dreaming of fishing or hunting in the Wyoming mountains for decades, making it a reality might be easier than you think. Wind River Country has the landscape, the animals and even the guides to help your hunting and fishing dreams come true. Here’s how to get started if you are coming from out of town, or perhaps you have some guests coming with high hopes of these experiences.
Fishing for Mountain Trout or Lake Walleye
The Wind Rivers are renowned for their great fly fishing in lakes and rivers. Whether close to town or deep in the mountains, you can pull out a beautiful trout of the rainbow, cutthroat or golden variety. The golden trout is aptly named, as there are only a few places in the world where they can be caught, and the Wind Rivers are one of them.
Or maybe you prefer spin fishing on lakes like Boysen Reservoir. From either standing on the shoreline or from a boat you can expect to catch walleye, sauger, perch and trout in this lake.
Do I need a license or permit to fish?
Yes, absolutely. For information on purchasing a fishing license in Fremont County, click HERE. For information on purchasing a Wind River Indian Reservation permit, call (307) 332-7207.
Do I need a guide to fish?
While you don’t need a guide, you might consider booking one if you want to ensure the trip of a lifetime. Guides can range from a single day to a week of fishing and camping in the mountains with amazing views, great food and memories to last a lifetime.
Take, for example, Sweetwater Fishing, where George Hunker has been fly fishing in the Wind Rivers for over 50 years. George and his son Hank can plan your perfect fishing trip while you do little more than show up and cast your line. Or consider Dunoir Fishing for a day trip in a drift boat, lake boat or wading excursion. And if you don’t have your own fishing gear, they can provide it!
Or if you want to fish on tribal lakes and streams known for their trophy fish, check out Big Wind River Float Trips or contact Shoshone & Arapaho Fish & Game at (307) 332-7207.
What is the best season for fishing?
One of the best kept secrets to Wind River Country is that you can fish year-round. You’ll want to catch trout in cooler temperatures to avoid the stress warmer waters can put on them. Lake fishing is usually good from spring through fall, and if you’re looking for a winter adventure, Boysen has some great ice fishing when the ice freezes up in late January or February.
Hunting Big Game (Elk, Deer, Pronghorn, Moose, Bighorn Sheep)
Wyoming is known for its big game hunting, thanks to the remote and rugged landscape. Wind River Country offers unparalleled access to public land for the do-it-yourself hunter who is willing to work and for those who opt to hire a guide. If you are coming from out of state, you will have a few more steps and may need to be patient for the license, but trust us when we say the hunt will be worth it!
Do I need a hunting license?
Yes, absolutely. Wyoming Game and Fish manages licenses for big game. The deadlines can vary by species and for in-state and out-of-state residents, so be sure to check deadlines on the Game and Fish website.
What are my chances of drawing a license?
There are a lot of variables when it comes to drawing a hunting license, including the species of animal, the desired area, Wyoming residency and preference points. If you are new to hunting or coming from out-of-state, this is where a guide can help you navigate how to apply and how to have the best chances of a draw.
Do I need a guide?
If you are coming from out of state, the answer is yes–you need a licensed guide or a resident companion to hunt in wilderness areas. Even if you are a resident, but newer to hunting, a guide will ensure a great experience. Many of the guiding outfitters in Wind River Country have spent multiple generations in the mountains and know both big game patterns and hunting best practices. Many outfitters support their hunting camps with pack horses, which means you will camp and eat like royalty while on your hunting trip. You’ll also get a little extra horse power hauling out the big animal should your hunt be successful. If you are looking to hunt closer to Lander and Riverton, check out Diamond 4 Ranch, If you are closer to Dubois, check out Absaroka Ranch. It is important to contact these ranches well before you begin the process of booking travel or applying for a hunting license.
How do I prepare for a high elevation hunt?
If you are coming from another state or even just a lower elevation in Wyoming, you will want to be as physically fit as possible for a hunting experience. Especially for big game like elk, deer, moose or sheep, you may be hiking for several hours through rugged terrain at 10,000 feet or higher. The best way to train is to go for long walks with a moderate (20 pound) backpack and keep a pace just above conversational pace.
Author Bio: Mandy Fabel is an avid outdoor adventurer and enjoys spending time climbing, snowmobiling and mountain biking in the Wind River Mountains. She lives in Lander with her husband and son.
Posted in Notes From the Field