Recent sampling by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department shows that channel catfish in Kinnear Pond are doing well, offering a solid fishing opportunity for Fremont County anglers this summer.

Located just southeast of the community of Kinnear, Kinnear Pond is part of the Ocean Lake Wildlife Habitat Management Area and is stocked with 2,400 channel catfish every other year. Sampling conducted in June 2025 found that the catfish population is strong and includes fish over 20 inches and four pounds. The average fish length was 13 inches, and recent angler reports suggest that even larger catfish are being caught.

“The population has really responded since regular stocking resumed in 2015,” said Paul Gerrity, Lander Region fisheries biologist. “Kinnear Pond is a small but productive fishery that provides a great opportunity for folks looking to catch channel catfish close to home.”

Catfish stocking was paused between 2006 and 2014 due to a lack of available fish from out-of-state culture facilities, which caused the population to decline. Since resuming the stocking schedule in 2015, the lake has rebounded.

While there is limited shore access on the WHMA, the best way to fish Kinnear Pond is by boat. Game and Fish maintains a small boat ramp on the west side of the lake/pond suitable for small motorized watercraft, such as jon boats. Larger boats are discouraged, as the lake/pond covers just 68 acres and most areas are less than 10 feet deep.

Anglers are reminded that much of the shoreline around Kinnear pond is privately owned. Please respect landowner boundaries, refrain from fishing on private property without permission, and be mindful of nearby residences by limiting noise and avoiding litter.

Game and Fish encourages anglers to enjoy this hidden gem and take advantage of the renewed channel catfish fishing opportunity in Fremont County.

For more information, please reach out to Paul Gerrity at the Lander Regional Office at 307-332-2688.