Fishing Near Sheridan Wyoming — What's Here
The Tongue River runs through Sheridan County — a freestone stream holding brown trout, rainbow trout, and mountain whitefish through its canyon and valley sections. Tongue River Canyon, 20 minutes from downtown Sheridan, is a Class I wild trout fishery with red-rock walls that most anglers from outside Wyoming don't find on their first trip.
The Bighorn National Forest above Sheridan holds small streams and high-altitude lakes in the Cloud Peak Wilderness — pristine backcountry water for cutthroat trout that see minimal pressure. Cloud Peak creeks require a hike. The fish quality justifies every step.
The Fly Shop of the Big Horns in Sheridan is the local outfitter of record. They know which water is running right, what's hatching, and which access points are producing. Call them before you arrive.
Wyoming Fishing License — What You Need
Nonresidents need a Wyoming fishing license and a conservation stamp before wetting a line. Licenses are available online through the Wyoming Game & Fish Department at wgfd.wyo.gov or at sporting goods stores in Sheridan.
Options include daily, 5-day, and annual nonresident licenses. Visit the WGFD website for current fees — prices change periodically and we'd rather you see the official numbers than outdated ones here.
Regulations vary by water and season. The Tongue River and its tributaries have specific catch limits and gear restrictions in certain sections. Check current regulations before you go.
Your Fishing Base Camp — Wyo Stays Sheridan Cabins
Wyo Stays manages vacation rental cabins and homes in Sheridan and the surrounding foothills — all within a short drive of Tongue River Canyon, Bighorn National Forest trailheads, and the Cloud Peak Wilderness boundary.
We're a licensed Wyoming real estate brokerage, not a platform. No guest service fees, no booking fees, no markup. The rate you see is the rate you pay. Your booking is handled by a real team at a real address — 155 W Brundage St, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Browse available properties at book.wyostays.com or call (307) 312-9656 to talk through your fishing trip plans with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I fly fish near Sheridan Wyoming?
The Tongue River and Tongue River Canyon — a Class I wild trout fishery — are 20 minutes from downtown Sheridan. The Bighorn National Forest above town holds small streams and high-altitude lakes in the Cloud Peak Wilderness with cutthroat trout that see minimal pressure. The Piney Creek and Little Goose Creek drainages also offer wadeable trout water within 30 minutes of Sheridan.
Are there fishing cabin rentals near the Tongue River in Wyoming?
Yes. Wyo Stays manages vacation rental cabins and homes in the Sheridan area — all within a short drive of the Tongue River Canyon and Bighorn National Forest access points. Browse available properties at book.wyostays.com or call (307) 312-9656.
When is fishing season on the Tongue River near Sheridan Wyoming?
The Tongue River is open to fishing year-round in most sections. Peak dry-fly fishing runs from late June through September. Spring runoff typically peaks in late May to early June — the river fishes best once flows drop and clear. Fall offers excellent streamer fishing for large browns. Check Wyoming Game & Fish (wgfd.wyo.gov) for current regulations and any section-specific closures.
What fish species can I catch near Sheridan Wyoming?
Brown trout, rainbow trout, and mountain whitefish in the Tongue River and its tributaries. Cutthroat trout — including Yellowstone cutthroat — in the high-altitude streams and lakes of the Cloud Peak Wilderness. Brook trout in smaller mountain streams throughout the Bighorn National Forest.
Do I need a Wyoming fishing license as a nonresident?
Yes. Nonresidents need a Wyoming fishing license and a conservation stamp. Licenses are available online at wgfd.wyo.gov or at sporting goods stores in Sheridan. Visit the Wyoming Game & Fish Department website for current fees and regulations.
Where can I find a fly fishing guide near Sheridan Wyoming?
The Fly Shop of the Big Horns in downtown Sheridan is the local outfitter of record. They offer guided trips on the Tongue River and Bighorn Mountain streams, know which water is running right, what's hatching, and which access points are producing. Call them before you arrive to plan your trip.
Ready to Fish Tongue River Country?
Browse cabin availability or call our Sheridan team to plan your fishing trip.