Lamar River - Tower Falls Ranger Station - Wyoming
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Trip planning summary
Lamar River – Tower Falls Ranger Station fly fishing at a glance
Use this page to check rules, flow, access, hatch notes, flies, and tactics before planning a trip.
Rules first
Check the current rule before fishing. Seasons, limits, methods, and closures can change.
Flow check
Open the gauge or source context before wading, floating, or driving to the river.
Access plan
Use legal public access and confirm posted, park, tribal, or private boundaries.
Report status
Source review queued. Fly notes are planning guidance; current rules control.
Lamar River – Tower Falls Ranger Station - Water Flow Chart
Lamar River – Tower Falls Ranger Station - Weather report & radar
Lamar River – Tower Falls Ranger Station - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midges | Afternoons | #18-22 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge |
| February | Midges | Afternoons | #18-22 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge |
| March | Midges | Afternoons | #18-22 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge |
| BWO | Afternoons | #18-20 | Parachute Adams | |
| April | Midges | Afternoons | #18-22 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge |
| BWO | Afternoons | #18-20 | Parachute Adams | |
| Caddis | Late Afternoon | #14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| May | BWO | Afternoons | #18-20 | Parachute Adams |
| Caddis | Late Afternoon | #14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| Salmonfly | All Day | #6-8 | Pat’s Rubber Legs | |
| Stonefly | All Day | #6-8 | Chernobyl Ant | |
| June | Caddis | Mornings, Late Afternoon | #14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis |
| Salmonfly | All Day | #6-8 | Pat’s Rubber Legs | |
| Stonefly | All Day | #6-8 | Chernobyl Ant | |
| PMD | Late Morning | #14-16 | Parachute PMD | |
| July | PMD | Late Morning | #14-16 | Parachute PMD |
| Caddis | Evenings | #14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| Terrestrials | All Day | #10-12 | Hopper Patterns | |
| August | PMD | Late Morning | #14-16 | Parachute PMD |
| Caddis | Evenings | #14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| Terrestrials | All Day | #10-12 | Hopper Patterns | |
| September | Terrestrials | All Day | #10-12 | Hopper Patterns |
| BWO | Afternoons | #18-20 | Parachute Adams | |
| Caddis | Evenings | #14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| October | BWO | Afternoons | #18-20 | Parachute Adams |
| Caddis | Evenings | #14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| November | Midges | Warmest Part of Day | #18-22 | Griffith’s Gnat |
| December | Midges | Warmest Part of Day | #18-22 | Griffith’s Gnat |
Lamar River – Tower Falls Ranger Station Access Points
The Tower Falls Ranger Station is a fantastic access point for fly fishing in the Lamar River. This river is noted for its abundance and diversity of fish species, making it a popular location for fishing enthusiasts.
- Access: Start taking the Lamar River trail, located just east of Tower Falls. After about 100 yards, you will reach the riverbank.
- Species: The Lamar River is home to native Yellowstone cutthroat trout, as well as other species like rainbow and brown trout.
- Time to visit: Late summer is usually the best time for fishing on the Lamar River, as the water levels are low which makes it easier to wade.
- Equipment: A 9-foot 5-weight rod with floating line is generally recommended for this location. Make sure to bring adequate sun protection and a hat.
- Regulations: Check with the park service for the latest fishing regulations and restrictions.
Lamar River – Tower Falls Ranger Station Fishing Spots
Fishing enthusiasts who are keen on challenging themselves will find the Lamar River, upstream from the Tower Falls Ranger Station, to be an ideal fly fishing destination.
- River sections near the eastern entrance of the park: This spot is popular due to its accessibility and the immaculate water settings it provides. This is suitable for both novice and professional fly-fishers. However, be wary of the strong currents.
- Cache Creek confluence area: Located a bit upstream along the Lamar River Trail, it provides splendid opportunities for catching cutthroat trout. Patience is critical in this area.
- Lamar Valley: It’s well worth the journey for the stunning scenery and excellent fishing conditions. This area is best visited during morning and evening hours to avoid the crowds and heat of the day.
- Footbridge in the Slough Creek: This location is a couple of miles south-west off the main road but offers a seclusive fishing experience.
Lamar River – Tower Falls Ranger Station Local Fish Species
- Brook Trout: The Brook trout is a much-loved target for sportsmen and is found in large numbers in the Lamar River.
- Rainbow Trout: Known for its distinctive color, the Rainbow trout offers a challenge for fly fishermen.
- Brown Trout: The Brown trout is a popular target because of its size and hearty fight when hooked.
- Cutthroat Trout: The Cutthroat trout is native to the Lamar River and can offer a unique fishing experience.
- Mountain Whitefish: Although not primarily a game fish, the Mountain Whitefish is often caught during fly fishing.
- Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout: The Yellowstone Cutthroat trout is a subspecies of Cutthroat trout and is heavily targeted on the Lamar River.
- Golden Trout: Known for their striking golden scales, Golden trout are highly sought after.
- Arctic Grayling: The Arctic Grayling, with its distinctive dorsal fin, is a rare and exciting catch for any fly fisherman.
About the Lamar River – Tower Falls Ranger Station
Once a vital site for Native American gatherings, the Lamar River Valley is now synonymous with the history of the Tower Falls Ranger Station. This iconic post nestled within Yellowstone National Park was the haven for multiple species given its lush vegetation and serene nature.
Part of its romance includes its diverse ecosystem-dubbed as the “American Serengeti”. It built a reputation as the foremost destination for wolf-watching after 1995 when wolves were re-introduced to restore ecological balance.
- 1880’s: Renowned for having the first ranger station in the park, it served as an outpost for patrols who safeguarded against poaching and wildfires.
- 1905: The Ranger station was upgraded to the Tower Soldier Station.
- 1923: In a move to develop infrastructure, it was rebuilt with logs and again in 1935 with the current native rock station.
So, from not only a scenic standpoint but also a historical one, the Lamar River – Tower Falls Ranger Station is a gem to behold.
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This river report has not yet received a full official-source review. Fishing rules, access, flows, and closures can change quickly; confirm current details with official state and local sources before planning a trip.
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