Wind River Fishing Forecast
Fly fishers plan Wyoming trips on the Wind River because it stacks credible wading access, recognizable insect cycles, and trout that respond when flows align. Expect classic freestone rhythm: push during stable or dropping flows after fronts, then back off when the river spikes and color returns in 24–48 hours. River-specific intel: The Wind River flows from the Wind River Range through dramatic Wind River Canyon, offering diverse fishing for rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. USGS gauge 06218500 tracks live flow and temperature for planning wade or float days.
Constant 56°F water flows out of the bottom-release dam and into the Wind River at 99 CFS CFS. Expect a 6/10 window. Top pick: a Stimulator.
Open year-round (check section regs)
East Fork drainage: artificial fly/lure only, all cutthroat C&R. Wind River Reservation requires tribal permit
Forecast and on-page guide updated September 9, 2026 (UTC). Open the app for hourly conditions.
Today's Fishing Conditions
Good
Updated 7:33 AM
56°F
99 CFS
5 AM - 7 AM
Stimulator
Free forever • No signup required • Hourly updates
What Makes the Wind River Unique?
Signature hatch or window
BWO (Mayfly) is a headline hatch to watch in September. Peak activity often tracks 42–55°F water temps.
Distinctive access
Dubois: Upper river access with services.
Rules anglers miss
Wind River Reservation requires tribal permit.
Optimal Fishing Conditions
Optimal Flow
500 - 1500 CFS
Best fishing conditions
Optimal Water Temperature
50° - 62°F
Ideal for active trout
Quick Facts
Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout, and Brook Trout
freestone
48°F - 58°F
September Hatches
BWO
Mayfly
Spring and fall BWO fishing. Tailwater section year-round.
Caddis
Caddis
Evening caddis through summer.
Hopper
Terrestrial
Terrestrial season excellent. Bank fishing.
September Fishing Tactics
Primary Targets
Recommended Tactics
Excellent fall fishing. Browns aggressive.
Year-Round Fishing Guide
| Month | Water Temp | Tactics |
|---|---|---|
| January | 32-38°F | Deep nymphing, Midges, Streamers |
| February | 33-40°F | Midges, Small nymphs, Deep pools |
| March | 36-45°F | BWO dries, Streamers, Early stonefly nymphs |
| April | 40-50°F | Skwala dries, BWO patterns, Streamers |
| May | 45-55°F | Mother's Day Caddis, Nymphing, Streamers |
| June | 50-60°F | Salmonfly dries, Golden Stones, PMDs |
| July | 55-68°F | PMDs, Hoppers, Caddis, Attractor dries |
| August | 55-70°F | Hoppers, Tricos, PMDs, Terrestrials |
| September(Now) | 48-58°F | BWOs, Streamers, Hoppers |
| October | 40-50°F | Streamers, BWOs, Egg patterns |
| November | 35-42°F | Streamers, Deep nymphs, Egg patterns |
| December | 32-38°F | Deep nymphs, Midges, Slow presentations |
Recommended Equipment for Wind River
Rod
9-foot, 5 or 6-weight.
Line
Floating line for most fishing.
Leader & Tippet
9-foot tapered leader, 4X-5X tippet.
Waders
Breathable waders. Cold mountain water.
Essential Flies
How to Fish Wind River: Tips & Tactics
The Wind River flows from the Wind River Range through dramatic Wind River Canyon, offering diverse fishing for rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout.
Best Times of Day
Summer offers the best fishing after runoff. The canyon section provides unique scenery. Fall brings excellent conditions.
Recommended Techniques
Freestone techniques in upper reaches. Canyon fishing requires specialized approaches. Match the hatches.
Water Conditions
The Wind River Canyon is dramatic. Upper river is accessible freestone. Wind River Reservation surrounds portions.
Fly Selection
Caddis and stonefly patterns. PMD and BWO for mayflies. Attractor dries in faster water.
When is the Best Time to Fish Wind River?
Spring
High runoff. Limited fishing.
Summer
Prime season after runoff subsides.
Fall
Excellent conditions. Less crowded.
Winter
Limited access due to weather.
Access Points & Parking for Wind River
Dubois
Upper river access with services.
Wind River Canyon
Spectacular canyon fishing.
Boysen Reservoir
Above reservoir access.
Thermopolis
Below canyon access.
Spawning Seasons
Please respect spawning fish and their redds. Avoid fishing over actively spawning trout.
Brown Trout
Spawn months: October, November
Night spawning common. Males become very dark with pronounced kype during spawn.
Rainbow Trout
Spawn months: March, April
Resident rainbow trout spawn in smaller tributaries and tend to build smaller redds than steelhead.
Brook Trout
Spawn months: September, October
Males develop vibrant red bellies and white-edged fins during spawning. Early fall spawners.
Cutthroat Trout
Spawn months: May, June, July
Spring spawners. Timing varies by subspecies and elevation - coastal populations spawn earlier (Feb-Mar), inland populations later (May-July). Eggs develop for 6-7 weeks before hatching.
Wind River Fishing Regulations
Season
Check Wyoming Game and Fish.
Limits
Trout limits vary by section.
Special Regulations
Wind River Reservation requires tribal permit.
Bait Restrictions
Check by section.
Notes
Tribal lands require additional permits.
Always verify current regulations with Wyoming fish and wildlife agency before fishing. Regulations can change annually.
Fly Shops & Guides Near Wind River
Local Fly Shops
- Wind River Outfitters - Dubois
- Lander Fly Shop
- Wyoming High Country
Guide Services
- Wind River Guides
- Dubois Anglers
- Wyoming Fly Fishing
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Wind River — frequently asked questions
When is the best time to fish the Wind River?
Excellent fall fishing. Browns aggressive.
What flies should I bring to the Wind River?
For the Wind River (freestone), carry: Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulator, PMD, Stonefly, Woolly Bugger.
What water temperature is best for trout on the Wind River?
On the Wind River, trout hold between 50° and 62°F. In summer, expect temps to swing with air temperature — fish early.
Do I need a fishing license for the Wind River?
Yes — you need a valid Wyoming fishing license to fish the Wind River. Local season: Check Wyoming Game and Fish.. Daily limit: Trout limits vary by section..
What hatches should I watch for on the Wind River in September?
BWO is the signature hatch on the Wind River in September. Match size and adjust leader size to 5X-6X. The fish key in on the emergence during low-light hours, so plan to be on the water at first light.
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