Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Shoshone River - Wapiti - Wyoming

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midge Afternoon #20-24 Zebra Midge
February Midge Afternoon #18-22 Griffith's Gnat
March Blue Winged Olives Overcast/Mild Temperatures #18-20 Pheasant Tail
April Caddis Afternoon/Evening #14-18 X-Caddis
May Stoneflies, Pale Morning Dun Morning/Afternoon #10-14 (Stoneflies), #16-20 (PMD) Golden Stone, PMD Nymph
June Green Drakes, Yellow Sallies Afternoon/Evening #8-12 (Green Drakes), #14-16 (Yellow Sallies) Giant Foam Drake, Yellow Sally
July Terrestrials, Caddis Midday #10-14 (Terrestrials), #14-16 (Caddis) Hopper, Elk Hair Caddis
August Terrestrials, Tricos Midday (Terrestrials), Morning (Tricos) #10-14 (Terrestrials), #20-22 (Tricos) Ant, Spinner
September Terrestrials, Midges Midday (Terrestrials), Afternoon (Midges) #10-14 (Terrestrials), #20-24 (Midges) Beatle, Griffith's Gnat
October Blue Winged Olives Overcast/Mild Temperatures #18-20 RS2
November Midge Afternoon #20-24 Zebra Midge
December Midge Afternoon #20-24 Griffith's Gnat

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Shoshone River – Wapiti boasts a variety of fishing havens, offering fishing spots teeming with various fish species. Several spots have an abundance of big catches such as Rainbow trout, Cutthroat trout, Brown Trout, and Brook trout.

  • Wapiti Valley: This area of Shoshone River, between Yellowstone National Park and Cody, is a particular favorite among fly fishers due to its stunning views and abundant fish population.
  • Buffalo Bill Reservoir: This larger body of water expands potential catch to include lake trout and Kokanee salmon, particularly rigging a boat for trolling.
  • South Fork Shoshone: Known for its wild cutthroat fish population, the South Fork is an excellent spot for fly fishermen looking for an untouched environment.
  • North Fork Shoshone: It offers excellent opportunities for high-quality trout, with four free public access sites that run along Highway 20.

Best Access Points

The Shoshone River – Wapiti is a remarkable tributary of the Yellowstone River, offering numerous possibilities for fly fishing enthusiasts. While there are several access points, some top-rated among seasoned anglers include:

  • Sleeping Giant Campground: Situated along North Fork Highway, this site offers convenient river access and remarkable fishing spots.
  • Shoshone National Forest: With several miles of the river flowing through this forest, you can find plenty of secluded spots to cast your line.
  • Wapiti Ranger Station: Located at the eastern end of North Fork Highway, it offers exceptional fly fishing experiences.
  • Buffalo Bill Reservoir: This location offers more than just fishing opportunities. The scenic beauty adds a wonderful backdrop to your fishing adventure.
  • Buffalo Bill State Park: Offering two campgrounds and numerous day-use areas, the park delivers easy access to the Shoshone River.

Avoid trespassing on private lands and always respect posted no-fishing zones while fishing in the Shoshone River – Wapiti.

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout
  • Rainbow Trout
  • Brook Trout
  • Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout
  • Mountain Whitefish
  • Rocky Mountain Sculpin
  • American Bull Trout
  • Lake Trout

About The River

The Shoshone River, known as Wapiti by the indigenous people, holds an intriguing slice of Wyoming’s history. This scenic river winds its way from the stunning Absaroka Mountain Range to Cody, a charming town renowned for its rich cowboy culture.

  • The Shoshone River was initially known by Native American tribes as the ‘Stinking River’ because of the sulfur-rich hot springs feeding into it.
  • At the turn of the century, its name was changed to the Shoshone River after the tribe living in the area, the Eastern Shoshone.
  • The river is a paradise for adventure junkies, offering exhilarating water sports including whitewater rafting and fishing.

Nestled in the breathtaking beauty of Wyoming, the Shoshone River – Wapiti conveys tales of the untamed Wild West and serves as a habitat for diverse wildlife. It’s worth every trek, every paddle, and every moment you spend appreciating its natural beauty.

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