CASPER-Anglers in the Casper Region can look forward to excellent sportfishing this spring and summer, though the Wyoming Game and Fish Department advises that low water levels will require extra preparation and awareness of the new 2026 regulations.

Water Levels and Access

The primary concern for the upcoming season is the water supply. Pathfinder and Seminoe reservoirs have very low storage and are unlikely to rise significantly given low spring runoff. While fish populations are expected to remain stable, the low water will impact boating access.

"Many boat ramps will be high and dry this summer," said Matt Hahn, Casper Fisheries Supervisor. "Boaters should be cautious of hazards that are typically submerged and prepare for more difficult launching conditions at our major reservoirs".

Fishing Outlook

Despite the water challenges, the Casper Region remains a premier destination for several species:

• Walleye: Glendo, Alcova, Pathfinder, and Seminoe reservoirs are all providing excellent walleye fishing this year.
• Trout and Salmon: Alcova, Pathfinder, and Seminoe offer strong populations of rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout, while kokanee salmon remain popular at Alcova and Pathfinder.

• Glendo Diversity: In addition to walleye, Glendo offers good opportunities for channel catfish, yellow perch, crappie, and the occasional largemouth bass.

   

Conversely, small streams draining the North Laramie Range—including Deer Creek, LaBonte Creek, and Horseshoe Creek—may be negatively impacted by low snowpack, leading to low flows and rising water temperatures as the summer progresses.

Important 2026 Regulation Reminders

Anglers are urged to review the 2026 fishing regulations, as several major changes are now in effect for the Casper Region:

• Tackle Requirements: Single-point, barbless hooks are now required on the North Platte River tailwaters between the Kortes Dam and the Wyoming Highway 220 Bridge. This includes high-traffic areas like the Miracle Mile and Fremont Canyon.
• Lure Restrictions: The use of trout beads or pegged attractors is now prohibited at the Fremont Canyon and Gray Reef reaches.
• Spawning Closure: A reminder that the Gray Reef area downstream of Ledge Creek is currently closed to fishing through May 15 to protect spawning rainbow trout.

• Walleye Limits: Harvest opportunities have expanded with an increased walleye limit in the North Platte drainage upstream of the Dave Johnston Powerplant.

   

Upcoming Events

Anglers should also mark their calendars for Wyoming’s Free Fishing Day on June 6, 2026, when residents and nonresidents may fish any public waters, with exceptions, in Wyoming without a license.  Several fishing days for youth and families are scheduled in coordination with Free Fishing Day, including at Yesness Pond in Casper from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 6.

For the full 2026 regulations, visit the Game and Fish website or visit the Casper Regional Office at 3030 Energy Lane.