Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Wind River - Below Boysen Reservoir - 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 Midges Afternoon #20-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
February Midges Late Afternoon #20-22 Griffith's Gnat, Black Beauty
March Baetis Mid Afternoon #18-20 Pheasant Tail, RS2
April Midges Early Morning #20-22 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Caddis Evening #14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
May Baetis Mid Afternoon #16-18 Pheasant Tail, RS2
Stoneflies Evening #6-10 Stimulator, Golden Stone
June Caddis Evening #14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
PMDs Mid Morning #14-16 Light Cahill, PMD Comparadun
July Tricos Early Morning #20-24 Trico Spinner, Griffith's Gnat
Terrestrials All Day #10-14 Chernobyl Ant, Foam Hopper
August Terrestrials All Day #10-14 Dave's Hopper, Ant Patterns
Tricos Early Morning #20-24 Trico Spinner, Griffith's Gnat
September Terrestrials All Day #10-14 Chernobyl Ant, Beetle Patterns
October Baetis Mid Afternoon #16-18 Pheasant Tail, RS2
Midges Afternoon #20-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
November Midges Late Afternoon #20-22 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
December Midges Afternoon #20-22 Zebra Midge, 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

Fly fishing enthusiasts can find an array of spots for fishing below Boysen Reservoir on the Wind River. The river is home to myriad species like Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, mountain Whitefish and more, offering a productive fishing experience throughout the year.

Here are a few of the best spots:

  • Thermopolis: Known for its hot springs, this town also features a fishing-friendly stretch of the Wind River.
  • Wedding of the Waters: This location is where the Wind River officially becomes the Bighorn River. It’s a popular place to catch large trout.
  • Wind River Canyon: This spot is noted for its spectacular scenery and great fly fishing opportunities.

    • Tips:

    1. Consider hiring a local guide to learn about the best flies, times, and techniques.
    2. Check the Wyoming Game & Fish Department regulations before fishing any new location.

Best Access Points

Located in Wyoming, the Wind River below Boysen Reservoir offers some of the best fly fishing regions. Some select access points are:

  • Wedding of the Waters: This unique location marks the spot where the Wind River becomes the Bighorn River. The river here is easily accessible, making it a popular spot for fly fishers.
  • Thermopolis: As the river progresses downstream, it passes through the town of Thermopolis. The town park provides easy access to the river.
  • Boysen State Park: This park, located at the Upper and Lower Wind River Campgrounds, offers great spots for fishing with ample space and facilities.
  • Below Boysen Dam: Below the dam, the Wind River transforms into a tailwater fishery, providing impressive fly fishing below the dam’s spillway.

Make sure you get your required fishing licenses and follow local regulations for a satisfying fly fishing trip.

Local Fish

  • Trout
    1. Rainbow Trout: This is one of the most common game fish and has a colorful and eye-catching appearance.
    2. Brown Trout: Brown Trout grow larger and fight harder, providing a satisfying challenge for anglers.
    3. Brook Trout: Native to Eastern North America, these fish are easy to catch and are usually found in cold, clear waters.
    4. Cutthroat Trout: Known for its “cutthroat” mark, this fish tends to live in remote and pristine habitats.
  • Salmon
    1. Chinook Salmon: Also known as “King Salmon,” Chinooks provide a serious fight, making them a prized catch.
    2. Coho Salmon: Cohos are aggressive and have acrobatic fight tendencies, making them exciting to catch.
  • Mountain Whitefish: This fish is native to the Wind River and is known for its light bite and high energy when hooked.

About The River

The Wind River is a truly captivating jewel nestled in Wyoming’s majestic landscape. Its history is rooted in the earliest parts of America, with original inhabitants believed to be tribes such as the Shoshone and Northern Arapaho.

Below the Boysen Reservoir, the river flows with serene tranquility, offering a naturally spectacular vista. Fishing enthusiasts particularly enjoy this stretch due to its abundance of trout. Over the years, it has also become a coveted spot for thrilling water activities.

  • The Boysen Reservoir, built in 1952, significantly augmented the river’s significance by providing flood control and recreational opportunities.
  • The Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway, offering awe-inspiring views of the river and surrounding terrain, traces a significant portion of the river below the reservoir.

So, whether you are an adventure junkie, a history buff, or simply a nature admirer, the Wind River- Below Boysen Reservoir offers a unique blend of beauty, history, and thrill.

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