FISHING AND BOATING

Instream Flow / Mill Creek

Mill Creek

Click for larger image
Length: 3.1 miles
Priority Date: 06/27/1996
Printable Access Map: Download Map
Technical Report: Download Technical Report
X-Stream Angler Article: Download XStream Angler Article

*Angling regulations may have changed since X-Stream Angler Articles were written. Please check current Fishing Regulations for current fishing limits.

About the segment - High in south-central Wyoming's Sierra Madres, Mill Creek begins as a trickle through a boulder-strewn channel. As it follows gravity's pull, it then winds through a broad meadow, slowly gathering additional water from seeps and springs before it pitches down a steep-sided canyon to its confluence with Big Sandstone Creek. The meadow section of the stream is easily accessible by vehicle, but few people are compelled to frequent the distal ends of this pristine stream.

Rationale - The primary purpose of the filing was to maintain adequate base flows for native Colorado River cutthroat trout. The purpose of any water right is not so much to change the amount of water in the stream today as it is to protect an interest in existing flow patterns for future use. The various flow levels filed for are intended to address habitat needs for spawning in the spring, maintain growth rates in the summer, and minimize winter mortality. Channel maintenance and flushing flows that provide long-term habitat by cleaning riffles, scouring deep pools and keeping the stream banks from encroaching (narrowing) were not filed for. The state engineer has ruled that the state's instream flow law does not allow flows for these habitat needs.

Fishery - Though relatively small in size, this stream provides important habitat to native Colorado River cutthroat trout. Though the genetic purity of this species has been compromised by hybridization with non-native rainbow trout in some streams, the fish in Mill Creek exhibit nearly pure genetic characteristics. Flow in this stream is especially prone to the effects of drought, and several years ago, it was feared that low flows might have seriously depleted the population. However, recent investigations documented the resiliency of these fish that have come back strong in recent years. This ability to persist in the face of severe drought is due entirely to the presence of beavers that provide critical refuge for "seed stock" fish in their ponds. Though abundant, cutthroats here seldom reach more than 10 inches in length. But true to their reputation, they are among the most eager of all trout species to bite about any fly or bait you want to fish with. Brook trout are also present, and in the event you wish to harvest any trout, bear in mind you may harvest up to six fish, but only one may be a cutthroat trout.

How to get there - From the town of Encampment, go approximately 23 miles west on Wyoming Highway 70 to the junction of Forest Service road 801 (the Deep Creek Road). Turn north and go about 6 miles to the junction of Forest Service road 871. This road is not clearly numbered or marked, so you need to pay close attention. Turn right on this graded road (heading northeast) and go about 3 miles. When you come to a "T," turn left and you'll cross the stream in about 0.25 mile. A bit further on this road is a gate that marks the beginning of a small parcel of private land where public access is not allowed.
Email Newsletter

Email Newsletter Sign Up

Stay up to date on all Wyoming Game and Fish news either by email or text message. Click the link below to get started.

Sign Up Today

SHOP WYOMING GAME & FISH STORE   SHOP NOW!

Conserving Wildlife - Serving People