Bass Fishing Season in Wyoming: Dates, Rules, and the Best Spots to Fish

Wyoming may be famous for its blue-ribbon trout streams, but the state’s bass fishing scene is a seriously underrated opportunity. One of the key advantages of bass fishing in Wyoming is the relatively low fishing pressure compared to more popular bass fishing states — with fewer crowds and more pristine, untouched waters, you can enjoy a peaceful experience while having access to ample bass populations.

Whether you’re targeting largemouth in a warm reservoir or wrestling a hard-fighting smallmouth out of clear rocky water, Wyoming delivers. This guide covers everything you need to know about bass fishing season in Wyoming, from statewide regulations and spawn timing to the best lakes and rivers to hit throughout the year.

Pro Tip: Always verify current regulations with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department before heading out — rules can vary significantly by water body and region.

Bass Species Found in Wyoming

Wyoming is home to two primary bass species that anglers actively target: largemouth bass and smallmouth bass. Each occupies a different type of habitat and offers a distinct fishing experience.

Largemouth Bass are the more widely distributed of the two. Largemouth bass patrol warmer spots like Boysen and Keyhole Reservoirs, typically ranging from 12–18 inches — but don’t be surprised if you hook a lunker exceeding 20 inches. They are ambush predators, favoring areas with plenty of cover such as submerged logs or dense weed beds.

Smallmouth Bass are the scrappier cousin. Ounce for ounce, smallmouth are considered one of the toughest bass around. They are typically greenish-bronze in color with dark vertical banding, rather than the horizontal band of largemouth bass. Smallmouth bass prefer large clear-water lakes, reservoirs, and cool, clear water streams with a gravel substrate, and generally favor structures such as rock outcrops, logs, treetops, and riprap like dam faces.

Wyoming’s state-record largemouth is a true trophy. The state-record largemouth bass was caught out of Kleenburn Ponds north of Sheridan in 2018, weighing 11.51 pounds and breaking the previous record by nearly four pounds. That catch was also one of the largest largemouth bass ever caught west of the Mississippi River.

Key Insight: Largemouth bass thrive in warm, weedy, slow-moving water, while smallmouth prefer cooler, clearer, rocky environments. Knowing which species inhabits your target water will help you choose the right gear and technique before you even arrive.

For a broader look at Wyoming’s diverse fisheries, check out our guide to trout fishing season in Wyoming — the state’s other iconic angling pursuit.

Bass Fishing Season Dates and Regulations in Wyoming

In Wyoming, you can fish all year round, any time of day, in most waters. However, there are some specific rules for certain areas, streams, and lakes, so it’s good to check the regulations for those. Bass do not have a hard statewide closed season the way some other species do, but individual water bodies carry special rules that can significantly affect when and how you fish.

Wyoming is divided into five areas, each with regulation exceptions that may or may not differ from the state-level regulations, with the following sections of the regulations guide explaining the differences for each specific area. This means that a rule applying to bass at one reservoir might not apply at another just a few miles away.

• General season: Open year-round in most waters statewide
• Area-specific closures: Some lakes have seasonal closures (e.g., Springer Reservoir in Goshen County is closed to fishing from November 1 through February 15)
• Watercraft restrictions: Hawk Springs Reservoir in Goshen County prohibits watercraft from December 1 through February 15
• Motor restrictions: Several waters prohibit internal combustion engines or motors over 15 horsepower

Always download the current Wyoming Fishing Regulations via eRegulations before your trip, as season-specific updates are published annually.

Catch-and-Release Rules and Closed Seasons in Wyoming

Wyoming enforces strict catch-and-release requirements in many waters, particularly for bass under certain size thresholds. These rules are designed to protect the bass population and allow fish to reach trophy size.

At several designated waters, all largemouth and smallmouth bass less than 15 inches shall be released to the water immediately. This applies to waters including Lake Absarraca, Leazenby Lake, and Sloans Lake in the Laramie/Cheyenne region.

Wyoming’s statewide regulations also have important general rules about fish handling. It is unlawful to release fish alive that have been placed on a stringer, in a container, in a live well, or not released immediately to the water, without written approval from the Department. In other words, if you plan to practice catch-and-release, you must do so immediately upon capture — not after keeping fish in a live well for the day.

Important Note: Closed season dates vary by specific water body. For example, Bump Sullivan Reservoir in Goshen County is closed to fishing from November 1 through the last day of February. Always check the area-specific regulations for your target water before planning a winter or early spring trip.

Some areas in Wyoming are subject to special fishing regulations or are designated as restricted zones. These may include catch-and-release-only areas, sections where only artificial flies and lures are allowed, or waters with seasonal closures.

If you fish in other states and want to compare approaches, our guides to trout fishing in Utah and trout fishing in West Virginia cover how neighboring and eastern states handle seasonal closures and catch-and-release rules.

Size Limits and Daily Bag Limits for Bass in Wyoming

Understanding Wyoming’s size and bag limits is critical before you keep any bass. The statewide default and area-specific rules differ, so pay close attention to the body of water you’re fishing.

Wyoming enforces specific bag and size limits depending on the species and the location. For example, certain waters may have special regulations for species like walleye or bass. When in doubt, reference the area-specific section of the Wyoming fishing regulations booklet for the water you plan to fish.

Common Mistake: Many anglers assume Wyoming’s statewide 6-fish bag limit applies everywhere for bass — but several popular waters have stricter 2- or 3-fish limits with size restrictions. Always check the specific water body’s rules, not just the statewide defaults.

Understanding how to rig and present your bait effectively is just as important as knowing the rules. Check out our guides on different types of fishing rigs and different types of fishing lines to dial in your setup.

When Bass Spawn in Wyoming and How It Affects Fishing

Bass spawning in Wyoming follows water temperature more than calendar dates — and at Wyoming’s high elevations, that means the spawn arrives later than in most of the country. Understanding the spawn cycle helps you know when bass are most accessible and how to adjust your tactics.

Pre-Spawn (Late April – May)
As water temperatures begin to climb above 50°F, bass start moving shallow to feed aggressively before the spawn. Many years, ice covers Flaming Gorge until late April — but as soon as the ice clears, the water seems to jump up to that magical 50-degree mark. This pre-spawn window is one of the best times to catch large fish, as they are actively feeding to build energy reserves.

Spawn (Late May – June)
Spawning usually occurs when water temperatures reach the low 60s. Males build their nests in quiet water in moving water and gravel substrate in lakes or other hard surfaces. During this period, bass are protective of their beds and will aggressively strike lures that intrude on their nesting areas. Sight fishing for bedding bass is a popular technique during this window.

The prespawn period is not a long, drawn-out affair in mountain environments. When the water begins to warm, and because of a shortened growing season for the bass, spawning activity begins very quickly.

Post-Spawn (Late June – July)
After the spawn, bass retreat to deeper, cooler water to recover. Fishing slows temporarily as fish become lethargic. Focus on deeper structure, drop-shot rigs, and slower presentations during this transition period.

Pro Tip: During the spawn, use finesse techniques. Swim baits, crankbaits, a plastic worm, and a dropper rig — known as a Texas rig — are effective baits for Wyoming bass. Keep your presentation subtle and work it slowly through suspected bedding areas.

Best Times of Year to Fish for Bass in Wyoming

Bass behavior in Wyoming is heavily influenced by the state’s dramatic seasonal temperature swings. Here’s how each season sets up for bass anglers:

Spring (April – May): The pre-spawn feeding frenzy makes spring one of the most productive windows of the year. Bass are shallow, aggressive, and hungry after a long winter. Target shallow flats, coves, and warming bays where water heats up first.

Summer (June – August): Summer brings longer days and warmer waters, ideal for exploring lakes and reservoirs. Bass, walleye, and perch become more active. Target submerged structures and brush piles using spinnerbaits and crankbaits, particularly in the warmer months when largemouth bass are most active. Fishing weed lines near shorelines early in the morning or late in the evening can also yield great results.

Fall (September – October): As water temperatures drop, bass feed heavily to prepare for winter. This is another prime feeding window. Reaction baits like crankbaits and chatterbaits worked quickly through baitfish schools are especially effective.

Winter (November – March): Bass fishing slows considerably in Wyoming’s cold winters. Most bass retreat to deep water and become lethargic. Ice fishing for bass is possible on some waters, but it is not a primary target species during this period.

Twilight before sunrise is considered the best time for fishing in Wyoming — at this time, fish become more active, come to the surface for food, and are easy to catch. This holds especially true for largemouth bass during summer months when midday heat pushes them deep.

For a look at how bass fishing season timing compares in other states, see our articles on fishing season in Texas and fishing season in Tennessee, where warmer climates produce extended seasons.

Best Bass Fishing Lakes and Rivers in Wyoming

Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Glendo Reservoir, Grayrocks Reservoir, Guernsey Reservoir, and Keyhole Reservoir are considered the best options for largemouth and smallmouth bass in Wyoming. Here’s a closer look at each major destination:

Flaming Gorge Reservoir

Flaming Gorge Reservoir is a 42,000-acre lake on the southern border of the state, with most of its 375 miles of shoreline in Wyoming and the balance in northern Utah. It’s the top destination for smallmouth bass in the state. The 91-mile-long Flaming Gorge Reservoir is the crown jewel for fishing in Sweetwater County — these waters were home to the state’s record-breaking fish for multiple species, including the state record for smallmouth bass.

Locals swear by drop-shotting in deeper waters where bass tend to congregate. Casting jigs and crankbaits along rocky outcrops and submerged ledges is highly effective for targeting smallmouth bass. Spring and fall are the best times for fishing Flaming Gorge, while summer is good for bass and perch.

Keyhole Reservoir

Keyhole Reservoir, located in northeastern Wyoming near the town of Moorcroft, spans approximately 9,300 acres and is known for its exceptional smallmouth bass fishing. The clear waters and rocky shorelines provide perfect habitat for smallmouth bass, which thrive in the lake’s varied structure.

Keyhole Reservoir is particularly popular for bass fishing because of its relatively low fishing pressure, allowing for a more peaceful and productive experience. The reservoir is located within Keyhole State Park, offering convenient access points for boaters and shore anglers. Its proximity to cities like Gillette makes it an easy destination for both local and visiting bass anglers.

Use soft plastic baits like grubs, swimbaits, and tubes, especially along the rocky shorelines where smallmouth bass like to congregate. Drop-shot rigs and jerkbaits are also effective in these clear waters, particularly when targeting bass in deeper areas or around submerged structures.

Boysen Reservoir

Boysen Reservoir, located in central Wyoming near the town of Shoshoni, spans an impressive 19,500 acres — one of the state’s largest reservoirs. Known for its healthy population of largemouth bass, Boysen is a go-to spot for bass anglers. The reservoir’s warm waters in the summer, along with submerged brush and standing timber, provide excellent cover for largemouth bass to thrive.

Sloans Lake and Lake Absarraca (Cheyenne)

Two of the state’s better largemouth bass lakes are in Wyoming’s largest city — Sloans Lake and Lake Absarraca in Cheyenne are community fisheries. These urban lakes are accessible and productive, making them ideal for anglers who want quality bass fishing without a long drive.

Kleenburn Ponds (Sheridan)

The Kleenburn Ponds, a scenic natural area with fishing opportunities and wildlife viewing, are home to monstrous largemouth bass. As mentioned, this is where Wyoming’s state record was set in 2018. Just a few steps away from the Kleenburn Ponds is the Tongue River, another great spot for bass fishing.

Glendo and Grayrocks Reservoirs

Warm-water fisheries such as Glendo Reservoir, Boysen Reservoir, and Keyhole Reservoir are teeming with species like bass, walleye, catfish, and panfish. These lakes provide anglers with exciting opportunities to cast lures, troll, or bait fish for their desired species. Glendo and Grayrocks both offer solid largemouth and smallmouth populations and are popular in the east-central part of the state.

Key Insight: Bass fishing in Wyoming offers a unique and rewarding experience, combining excellent fishing opportunities with the state’s stunning natural beauty. While Wyoming is often celebrated for its trout waters, it also boasts prime bass fishing, particularly for smallmouth and largemouth bass.

Choosing the right rod and reel setup makes a big difference when targeting bass in these varied environments. Our guides on different types of fishing rods and types of fishing reels can help you match your gear to the water you’re fishing.

Bass Fishing License Requirements in Wyoming

Before you cast a single line in Wyoming, you need to make sure your licensing is in order. The rules are straightforward, but there are a few key details to know.

If you want to fish in Wyoming, you’ll need a license if you are 14 years or older, whether you are a resident or non-resident. For those planning to fish regularly, there are a few key licenses to consider.

• Resident Annual License: $27, plus a conservation stamp
• Non-Resident Annual License: $102 for out-of-state anglers
• Conservation Stamp: Required at $21.50, unless you have a daily or five-day non-resident license
• Youth (Under 14): Kids under 14 fish for free in Wyoming, while non-residents must be with a licensed adult
• Youth (14–17): Discounted licenses are available for both residents and non-residents under 18

You have several options for purchasing your Wyoming fishing license:

1. Online through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website at wgfd.wyo.gov
2. Visit any Wyoming Game and Fish Office or licensed sales agents statewide
3. At local sporting goods stores and license-selling agents throughout the state

Important Note: If you plan to fish on the Wind River Indian Reservation, you will need to purchase a Wind River Tribal Fishing/Trespass Permit — a standard Wyoming fishing license does not cover tribal waters.

There’s also one day each year when no license is required. Free Fishing Day on June 6, 2026, invites families and friends to enjoy fishing in Wyoming without a license, while following all fishing regulations, creel limits, gear restrictions, and stream closures.

Wyoming’s licensing structure is similar in approach to other western states. For comparison, check out our guides on fishing license requirements in Florida and fishing license requirements in Texas.

If you’re exploring other types of fishing beyond bass, Wyoming has much more to offer. Browse our guides on different types of fishing and different types of flies for fishing to expand your angling toolkit. You might also enjoy learning about dove hunting season in Wyoming if you’re planning a full outdoor adventure in the Cowboy State.

Wyoming’s bass fishing season is open year-round in most waters, but the real action runs from late April through October. Lock in your license, study the area-specific regulations for your target water, and get out there — the crowds are thin and the fish are waiting.