Fishing Flaming Gorge Reservoir

AKA: The Gorge

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Popular Fish Species Flaming Gorge Reservoir, WY

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Kokanee Salmon Fishing

Sockeye salmon which remain landlocked, never migrating to the ocean, are called kokanee salmon. On-going stocking of kokanee salmon by the Flaming Gorge Reservoir helps to maintain a nice population for the fishery. Typically kokanee average one to two pounds. As one of the premiere kokanee fishing lakes in the region, Flaming Gorge Reservoir delivers plenty of fish above normal averages. These tasty fish school in lakes at depths which remain at ideal temperatures of between 48 and 58 degrees. Once this depth is identified, use a fish finder to locate schools. Use small lures trolled at the appropriate depth. The can also be caught using corn, but the main way they are caught is using flashy lures which they attack when the lure intrudes their space. In winter, once the ice is safe, try ice fishing for kokanee.

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Rainbow Trout Fishing

Fishing for rainbow trout at Flaming Gorge Reservoir can be effective using worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic prey. Use the lightest fishing line for the best possible results, based on conditions. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing can still provide some nice fishing. Stocking has helped to maintain a good population of rainbow trout. While fishing from a boat is often the preferred method, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish.

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Lake Trout Fishing

Year round, fishing for lake trout in Flaming Gorge Reservoir is often quite good and the fish are plentiful. These large trout prefer water below 60 degrees, however they can be caught from as shallow as 15 to 30 feet in Spring and Fall, to as deep as 150 feet or more during Summer and Winter. It is a monumental assistance to use fish finders, or other electronics to help in locating these roaming schools of lake trout. They feed on baitfish and other small fish, so jigs rigged to imitate their prey often work well straight down under the boat. Trolling with numerous set-ups can also produce good catches. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing for big lake trout with spoons can deliver some great catches.

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Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for smallmouth bass, channel catfish, rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout and kokanee salmon at Flaming Gorge Reservoir in Wyoming.

Flaming Gorge Reservoir Fishing Video

Home to trophy-size fish, Flaming Gorge Reservoir, aka Flaming Gorge Lake, is a 42,000-acre lake on the southern border part of the state. Most of the 375 miles of shoreline are in Wyoming and the balance is in northern Utah.

Flaming Gorge Reservoir, located in southwestern Wyoming, is a renowned fishing destination that offers a spectacular angling experience. Spanning across the Wyoming-Utah border, this vast reservoir is famous for its diverse fish species and stunning natural beauty. Anglers flock to Flaming Gorge Reservoir for its trophy-sized lake trout, which can reach impressive sizes. The reservoir is also home to other popular game fish, including kokanee salmon, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, and brown trout. With its thriving fish populations and picturesque surroundings, Flaming Gorge Reservoir promises an unforgettable fishing adventure.

Flaming Gorge Reservoir, with its exceptional fishing opportunities, exhilarating boating experiences, and scenic camping sites, stands as a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Wyoming. Whether you're an avid angler, a boating aficionado, or a nature lover seeking a peaceful retreat, Flaming Gorge Reservoir offers a remarkable escape. Its diverse fish species, expansive waters, and breathtaking landscapes combine to create an unforgettable outdoor experience that will leave visitors with cherished memories of Wyoming's natural splendor.

Excellent fishing and spectacular views await anglers and boaters for a trip of a lifetime. Record German Browns and lake trout have come from these fertile waters, which also have significant populations of bass, catfish, rainbow trout and kokanee salmon. The reservoir is surrounded by Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area with camping and marinas in both Wyoming and Utah. Access to the shoreline, for fishing from the bank, is available at numerous locations around the lake - the west side of the lake near the WY/UT border is a good place to start. Area fishing guides and boat charters are also available. In winter, once the ice is safe, there can be some excellent ice fishing on Lake Flaming Gorge.

Primary fish species residing in Flaming Gorge Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Flaming Gorge Reservoir Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

In addition to its exceptional fishing opportunities, Flaming Gorge Reservoir provides a haven for boating enthusiasts. The expansive waters and scenic cliffs make it an ideal destination for boating, water skiing, and enjoying various water sports. Boaters can explore the reservoir's vastness, find secluded coves for swimming, or simply soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The marinas and boat ramps around the reservoir ensure convenient access for boaters to launch their vessels and fully indulge in the joys of being out on the water.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Anvil Draw Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Anvil Draw Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking

Brinegar Crossing Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Squaw Hollow Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking

Firehole Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Firehole Boating Site Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Sheep Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, off FR 009, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Marinas

Buckboard Marina
6CW4+4R
McKinnon, Wyoming
307 875-6927

Fishing Guides On Flaming Gorge Reservoir

Recon Angling Fishing Guide Services - trout, salmon

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Fishing License

Click here for a Wyoming Fishing License.

For those seeking a longer stay, Flaming Gorge Reservoir offers a range of camping options that cater to both tent camping and RVs. Several campgrounds dot the reservoir's shoreline, providing stunning views and easy access to the water. Whether you prefer a primitive camping experience or desire modern amenities such as electricity and showers, there are campsites available to suit different preferences. Camping at Flaming Gorge Reservoir allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the area, enjoy lakeside sunsets, and experience the tranquility of nature.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Firehole Canyon Campground - 877 444-6777

Stateline Cove Campground - 435 784-3445

Buckboard Crossing Campground - 877 444-6777

Flaming Gorge-Manila KOA Journey Campground - 435 784-3184

Lucurne Campground - 801 226-3564

Flaming Gorge Reservoir WY Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Flaming Gorge Reservoir
Buckboard Crossing Campground
FR010 Ashley National Forest,
McKinnon, WY 82938
877 444-6777

Fishing lakes in each state.

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