Wyoming · Fishing
Fishing in Green River, Wyoming
Green River, Wyoming sits at the northern edge of the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, which puts anglers within a short drive of some of the most productive cold-water fishing in the Intermountain West.
6 spotsUpdated dailyFree to access
View on mapFishing · 6 spots
Green River, Wyoming sits at the northern edge of the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, which puts anglers within a short drive of some of the most productive cold-water fishing in the Intermountain West. The main draw is Flaming Gorge Reservoir itself, a deep, clear impoundment that holds lake trout, kokanee salmon, smallmouth bass, and rainbow trout in fishable numbers year-round. Most of the access points near Green River cluster along the western arm of the reservoir — Buckboard Crossing and Buckboard South are the two primary boat-launch areas on that side, and both give you quick access to open water without the longer drive to the Utah end of the lake. Stateline Cove Campground adds a surf-fishing option for anglers who want to work the shoreline without a boat. Ringdahl Reservoir is a smaller, quieter alternative closer to town, better suited for a casual afternoon than a dedicated fishing trip. The NRA designation means you'll need both a Wyoming fishing license and, depending on where you're fishing, awareness of the state line — the reservoir straddles Wyoming and Utah, and each state enforces its own regulations on its respective waters. Seasons here run year-round, but spring and fall tend to produce the most consistent action on the reservoir.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Wyoming fishing license to fish Flaming Gorge Reservoir from the Green River side?
Yes. If you're fishing from the Wyoming portion of the reservoir — which includes the Buckboard Crossing and Buckboard South access areas — you need a valid Wyoming fishing license. The reservoir crosses the state line, so if you fish the Utah side, you'll need a Utah license instead. Some anglers buy both if they plan to move around the lake.
Do I need a boat to fish effectively near Green River, or is shore fishing viable?
A boat opens up significantly more water on Flaming Gorge Reservoir, but shore fishing is workable. Stateline Cove Campground is specifically listed as a surf-fishing location, meaning it has accessible shoreline where you can cast without a boat. Buckboard Crossing and Buckboard South are primarily launch ramps, though the surrounding shoreline can be fished on foot.
What fish species can I expect to catch at Flaming Gorge Reservoir?
Flaming Gorge holds lake trout, kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, and smallmouth bass. Lake trout tend to run deep, especially in summer, so trolling or jigging with heavier gear is more productive than light spinning setups. Kokanee salmon are a popular target in the fall when they stage near the surface.
What's the best time of year to fish near Green River?
Spring and fall are generally the most productive seasons on Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Kokanee salmon are most active in fall, while rainbow trout and smallmouth bass tend to be more accessible in spring when water temperatures are cooler and fish move shallower. Ice fishing is possible on Ringdahl Reservoir in winter, though conditions vary by year.
Is Ringdahl Reservoir worth fishing, or should I go straight to Flaming Gorge?
Ringdahl Reservoir is a smaller, more accessible option that works well for a quick local outing or if you're fishing with kids. It's not going to match the variety or size of fish you'll find at Flaming Gorge, but it's much closer to town and doesn't require navigating the NRA. If you have a full day and a boat, Flaming Gorge is the better destination.
