Central Wyoming fishing and habitat outlook for 2026

Posted:

May 27, 2026

Lander Region

News

News

Central Wyoming fishing and habitat outlook

After a winter of record-breaking low precipitation and unseasonably high temperatures, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department is closely monitoring landscape conditions across the state. As the managers of Wyoming's aquatic wildlife, the Department is closely monitoring how these habitat conditions will influence wildlife and is taking proactive steps to protect the resources held in the public trust.

While we have gotten a little spring moisture, current low water levels are still a concern, this outlook is a real-time snapshot rather than a final prediction for the year to come. Habitat conditions in Wyoming can shift rapidly with late spring or summer moisture, and Game and Fish management practices are designed to be adaptive to these changes. Trout river fisheries can bounce back pretty quickly with above-average snowpack and high flows during the spring and summer, but it usually takes multiple years of above-average snowpack to fill the reservoirs.

Fishing Forecast: High expectations for Boysen and regional streams

Anglers heading to the central Wyoming area will find that despite a lower than average snowpack, many of the region’s premier fisheries are in excellent health. The timing of the spring runoff is expected to be earlier than average, which will shift the window for prime stream fishing but is unlikely to dampen the overall quality of the experience.

Boysen Reservoir

Boysen Reservoir is currently a standout destination, particularly for those targeting walleye. Recent biological surveys indicate a "phenomenal" population of walleye in the 14-to-20-inch range, with a significant number of trophy-sized fish exceeding 25 inches. Fisheries Biologist Paul Gerrity notes that the reservoir is in a period of high productivity. In addition to walleye, spring offers a productive window for rainbow trout, which can often be caught from the shoreline in the 17-to-20-inch class before water temperatures rise in mid-summer.

The Popo Agie River drainage

The Popo Agie system remains a reliable stronghold for trout. The Little Popo Agie, in particular, maintains an impressive biomass, with some stretches supporting up to 600 pounds of trout per mile. For anglers seeking larger rainbows, the main stem of the Popo Agie offers consistent opportunities for fish over 20 inches. Because of the anticipated early runoff, those planning trips to these moving waters should monitor flow levels closely throughout May and June.

High alpine lakes and the Sweetwater River

In the Wind River Mountains, the high-elevation snowpack is currently sitting at roughly 59% of the long-term median. While this is lower than in previous years, it provides enough of a buffer to sustain the region's high-alpine lakes. These remote waters remain excellent destinations for golden, cutthroat, and brook trout. Closer to the plains, the Sweetwater River has shown a positive trend in brown and rainbow trout numbers following several years of favorable water levels, making it a "sleeper" pick for this season.

Habitat analysis: Impact of a record-breaking warm winter

The habitat conditions in the Lander region are largely defined by a winter that was significantly warmer than usual. Between November 2025 and March 2026, temperatures averaged 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit above the median. This lack of severe cold and persistent snow cover was a boon for wintering big game, as it allowed deer, elk, and pronghorn easy access to forage without the metabolic stress of navigating deep drifts.

However, the lack of snow has resulted in a soil moisture deficit as we enter the growing season. Biologists are monitoring how this dry start will affect the production of grasses, forbs, and shrubs—the critical "green-up" that sustains wildlife throughout the summer.

Strategic management and stocking adjustments

To ensure the long-term health of our fisheries and the responsible use of department resources, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department is making specific adjustments to stocking schedules in response to current water levels. Low-elevation reservoirs that rely on spring moisture are of particular concern.

Antelope Springs Reservoir: This reservoir is currently experiencing very low water levels. To prevent the loss of fish in unsuitable conditions, rainbow trout will not be stocked here in 2026. The reservoir may not remain fishable through the late summer months.
Burlington Reservoir: Located near Lysite, this water is also facing significant moisture deficits. Consequently, stocking will be suspended for the 2026 season.

These decisions are made through science-based monitoring to ensure that when conditions improve, the department can resume stocking with the highest chance of success for the fishery and the angling public.

In addition, because water availability in springs, seeps and wet meadows is expected to be low, the department is closely monitoring these habitats, noting that while some species may delay reproduction until conditions are more optimal, the landscape remains resilient to natural variability. Regardless, managers have made big game regulation changes to manage herds towards their objectives with consideration of potential poorer habitat quality this spring, summer and on winter ranges for next year. This includes some increased doe/fawn antelope harvest, removal of antler point restrictions for deer and continued liberal seasons for elk in the Lander region.

Overall, the Game and Fish prioritizes long-term resilience in every habitat project, ensuring that Wyoming’s landscapes can withstand the increasingly common swings between extreme weather events. Whether it is through riparian restoration to improve water retention during dry spells, or invasive species management to promote the growth of native forage, these initiatives are designed to help the ecosystem "bounce back" from stress. This science-based, proactive approach ensures that the habitat remains productive and robust, supporting diverse fish and wildlife populations for generations to come.

How you can help too!

As summer approaches, the department encourages anglers to be mindful of water temperatures. In years with lower flows, water can heat up more rapidly, which puts additional stress on trout. Planning early-morning trips and practicing efficient catch-and-release techniques can help preserve these populations. Additionally, every boat owner is reminded to "Clean, Drain, and Dry" to keep Wyoming’s waters free of aquatic invasive species.

Be fire mindful: Dry conditions mean fire danger is extreme. Avoid driving in tall, dry grass and ensure all campfires are completely extinguished.
Adhere to closures: Respect seasonal range closures and any temporary emergency closures. These are established to minimize stress on animals that are already struggling to find quality forage and water.
Stay on trails and roads: Driving off-road can spread noxious weed, invasive annual grass seeds and damage fragile, dry vegetation and soils that may take years to recover. It also removes forage from the mouths of wildlife.
Protect aquatic health: Always Clean, Drain, and Dry your gear to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species and diseases that thrive in low-water environments.
Mind the heat: If you are fishing, do so in the early morning. If water temperatures approach 70 degrees, consider stopping for the day to protect fish populations from lethal stress. Harmful cyanobacteria may be blooming earlier this year. Find more information on the Department of Environmental Quality page.
Secure all attractants: Properly store food, trash and other attractants whether at home or in the field. Access to human food sources is detrimental to wildlife health and can lead to bold, habituated behavior that creates potentially dangerous situations for both people and animals.
Volunteer: Join local efforts like fence pulls or habitat restoration projects. These volunteer actions directly promote habitat resilience and help wildlife move more easily across the landscape. Reach out to your local regional office or biologist to find out about opportunities.
Respect wildlife space: As water sources dry up, wildlife will concentrate. Give animals extra space near remaining water holes to reduce unnecessary stress and energy loss.
Keep gates open and as you found them: To find the resources they need this year, wildlife will be moving more frequently across the landscape. Landowners, please keep gates open when possible to facilitate these movements- recreationists, please keep gates as you found them.
Thank your neighbors: Recognize that Wyoming’s private landowners and agricultural producers provide essential refuge habitat and water sources that act as a lifeline for wildlife during drought. A simple "thank you" for their contribution to our state's wildlife heritage goes a long way.
Wash your car at a car wash or let it be dirty. Car washes are more water-efficient and have water-recycling systems.