Are you ready to cast your cares away and experience the thrill of fishing in the stunning landscapes of Laramie, Wyoming? Laramie might be known for its rich history and vibrant culture, but its hidden gem is undoubtedly its fishing scene. From pristine lakes to meandering rivers, this city has it all. Let's dive into the world of fishing in Laramie and discover why it's a must-visit destination for anglers!
Laramie offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities, thanks to its numerous bodies of water ripe for exploration. Among the most popular spots for anglers are:
The Plains Lakes:
The Plains Lakes are 15 miles west of Laramie. The Plains Lakes consist of five lakes and reservoirs that include Hattie, Meeboer, Galett, Sodergreen, and Twin Buttes. These five lakes are known for their healthy population of brown trout, Cutthroat Trout, Kokanee Salmon, Rainbow Trout, and Yellow Perch. The five lakes contain trout 10-24+ inches. There is first-come-first-serve camping along the shore, and all of the Plains Lakes have boat ramps into the water. Whether you prefer to fish from the shore or venture out on a boat, the Plains Lakes are the place to catch big fish.
The Laramie River:
Meandering through lush valleys and stunning landscapes, the Big and Little Laramie River are home to some excellent fly fishing. With an abundance of brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout, this river system is a great place to hone your fly-fishing skills. Access points can be found along the Laramie Greenbelt, Monolith Ranch, Pioneer Canal, and Jelm.
Curt Gowdy State Park:
A majestic state park with 3 large reservoirs for fishing and watersports located 25 miles east of Laramie. This state park is named for Wyoming’s biggest fishing enthusiast and famous sportscaster, and is known for its amazing fishing. Whether from a watercraft or shore, you will be sure to catch some amazing fish here. Some commonly caught fish are Brown Trout, Brook Trout, Colorado River Cutthroat, Cutthroat Trout, Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout, Snake River Cutthroat, and Yellow Perch.
North Crow Reservoir:
A haven for tiger musky, splake, and trout, North Crow Reservoir is another popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. It is part of the Curt Gowdy State Park and you will need a day pass to enter this reservoir. With its serene atmosphere, it's a great spot for family fishing outings. This area is for day use only but does have pit toilets in the parking areas.
Huck Finn Pond:
For children 13 and under this is a wonderful spot to catch cutthroat trout in town. The pond is stocked every spring with cutthroat trout as soon as the ice melts. The pond has a small fishing dock but can be fished from the shore surrounding the whole pond.
Beaver Ponds in Pole Mountain and Vedauwoo:
With over 100 ponds to fish from you won't be bored anytime soon fishing up in this beautiful environment. The beaver ponds are found scattered all over the mountain. There are a few marked with easy access within the Vedauwoo Recreation Area. The beaver ponds are stocked with brook trout in the spring.
Tackle Shops in Laramie
If you are traveling to Laramie for fishing, it's a great idea to stop by a local fishing outfitter to stock up on regional bait and speak to the locals about the current fishing conditions. A couple of shops to check out in Laramie are the West Laramie Fly Store, Four Seasons Anglers, and Freeflow Outdoors.
Fishing Tips
Local knowledge can make a world of difference in your fishing success. Consider these tips for a successful fishing trip in Laramie:
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Talk to Locals: Strike up conversations with local anglers, bait shops, and fishing guides. They can provide invaluable advice on the best spots, bait, and techniques.
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Respect the Environment: Laramie's natural beauty is something to cherish. Practice catch-and-release when necessary and leave no trace. Clean up after yourself to preserve the ecosystem.
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Check the Weather: Wyoming weather can change rapidly. Keep an eye on the forecast and plan your trip accordingly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
