5 Best Fly-Fishing Spots
Near Sheridan, WY

Sheridan County sits at the foot of the Bighorn Mountains, where snowmelt feeds a network of cold, clear streams holding wild brown and rainbow trout year-round. You don't need a guide, a float plane, or a remote lodge. Some of Wyoming's best fly fishing is within 45 minutes of downtown Sheridan — and most of it is free, walk-in public water.

Spot 1 — Tongue River Canyon

The Tongue River Canyon is the most dramatic and productive fishery in the area. The canyon cuts through red rock walls south of Dayton, holding wild brown trout in deep pools and fast runs. Access is straightforward: park at the Tongue River Canyon Trailhead off Highway 14 and wade in. The river is open year-round for catch-and-release on artificial lures.

Best for: Experienced waders comfortable with swift water. The canyon pools produce fish in the 14–18 inch range consistently through summer. Bring a 5-weight rod, size 14–18 Elk Hair Caddis, and Pheasant Tail nymphs.

Spot 2 — Little Goose Creek

Little Goose Creek flows right through Sheridan — and it holds trout. Kendrick Park offers easy walk-in access, making this the best option for families with kids or anyone who just wants a couple of hours on the water without a long drive. The creek is smaller and more forgiving than the canyon, with brushy banks that reward accurate casting.

Best for: Beginners, families, and evening after-dinner casts. Fish tend toward the smaller end (8–12 inches) but the setting — right in town, mountains visible to the west — is hard to beat.

Spot 3 — Big Goose Creek

Big Goose Creek offers longer runs, less pressure, and slightly bigger fish than its smaller sibling. Access points through Story and the Big Goose Canyon Road give you miles of public water. The creek winds through meadow sections that are perfect for dry fly fishing on summer evenings — watch for rising fish at dusk.

Best for: Intermediate anglers looking for dry fly action. Pale Morning Dun and Blue-Winged Olive hatches are reliable in June and September. Bring a 4-weight for the tighter meadow sections.

Spot 4 — Bighorn Lake (Yellowtail Reservoir)

Drive 90 minutes south to Lovell, Wyoming and you reach Bighorn Lake — a 71-mile-long reservoir in Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area holding trophy-class walleye, largemouth bass, and some of the biggest rainbow trout in the region. This is boat water, but shore fishing near the marinas and coves produces fish consistently.

Best for: Those who want volume and scale. A day trip from Sheridan makes sense if you have a pontoon or kayak. The canyon scenery alone justifies the drive — sheer 1,000-foot walls reflected in still water.

Spot 5 — Cloud Peak Wilderness Alpine Lakes

For the adventurous angler, the Cloud Peak Wilderness contains dozens of high-elevation alpine lakes above 9,000 feet holding native Yellowstone cutthroat trout. These fish have rarely seen a fly. Packs are required (no motorized access), and most lakes require a 6–12 mile hike from trailheads near Hunter Corrals or West Tensleep Lake.

Best for: Backpackers who fish. The combination of remote solitude, native fish, and high-country scenery is unmatched. Check with the Bighorn National Forest for current wilderness permits and fire restrictions before heading out.

When to Go

• May–early June: Runoff season — rivers run high and turbid. Stay on the lower creek sections and small tributaries.
• Late June–July: Prime dry fly season. Water clears, hatches peak, fish are active all day. Ideal window for the Tongue River Canyon.
• August: Midday can be slow in low water years. Fish early morning and evening. Alpine lakes at their best this month.
• September–October: Shoulder season magic. Cooler temps, fewer people, excellent hatch activity. Browns begin pre-spawn runs.
• Winter: Tongue River Canyon is open year-round. Nymphing below ice shelves can produce surprisingly well in January and February.

Guides & Gear in Sheridan

If you'd rather have a local show you the water, Sheridan has a small community of licensed fishing guides who know every riffle and pool in the county. Big Horn Mountain Outfitters can connect you with half-day or full-day guided wade trips — they also carry a full selection of local fly patterns, tippet, and licenses at their shop in town.

Wyoming fishing licenses are available online through the Wyoming Game & Fish Department or at any local sporting goods store. Non-resident day licenses are available. Kids under 14 fish free.