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Wyoming · Fishing
Kemmerer sits in the southwest corner of Wyoming, and while most people know it as the birthplace of JCPenney, anglers know it as a practical base for fishing the reservoirs and waters of the Kemmerer Ranger District.
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Kemmerer sits in the southwest corner of Wyoming, and while most people know it as the birthplace of JCPenney, anglers know it as a practical base for fishing the reservoirs and waters of the Kemmerer Ranger District. The standout destination here is Fontenelle Reservoir, a large impoundment sitting at 6,490 feet that holds rainbow trout, brown trout, burbot, and smallmouth bass — a more varied mix than you'll find at most Wyoming reservoirs. Graham Reservoir and the Tail Race Campground area round out the local options, giving you a few different settings depending on whether you want a bigger-water experience or something more low-key. None of these are remote backcountry destinations — access is generally straightforward, which makes this area workable for families and anglers who aren't looking to hike miles to reach water. The high-desert elevation means summer mornings can be cool even in July, and afternoon wind on the reservoirs is a real factor worth planning around. Four active fishing spots in the immediate area won't overwhelm you with choices, but the species variety at Fontenelle alone gives you enough reason to spend a full weekend here.
Fontenelle Reservoir holds rainbow trout, brown trout, burbot, and smallmouth bass. Burbot in particular are less commonly targeted but worth pursuing in colder months when they move into shallower water. The other listings in the area don't have published species data, so confirm conditions locally before committing to a specific spot.
Fontenelle is rated easy for access and fishing difficulty, so it's a reasonable choice for beginners and families. That said, fishing a large reservoir effectively — reading structure, adjusting for wind, targeting different species — still rewards anglers with some experience.
Tail Race Campground
~18 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WY.
Weeping Rock Campground
~19 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WY.
Fontenelle Reservoir
~18 min drive
Easy
Graham Reservoir
~5 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WY.
Scaler Guard Station
~1h 4m drive
A worthwhile stop near WY.
Slate Creek Campground
~18 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WY.
La Barge Guard Station
~1h 19m drive
A worthwhile stop near WY.
Kemmerer Ranger District
~32 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WY.
New Fork Campground
~1h 25m drive
A worthwhile stop near WY.
Austin Reservoir
~1h 3m drive
A worthwhile stop near WY.
Hams Fork Area
~56 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WY.
Quealy Reservoir
~1h 4m drive
A worthwhile stop near WY.
Also worth it near here
Early morning is generally most productive, especially for trout, before afternoon winds pick up on the open water. At Fontenelle's elevation of 6,490 feet, surface temperatures stay cooler longer into the morning, which keeps fish active. If you're targeting burbot, evening and night fishing in cooler months tends to produce better results.
Yes, a valid Wyoming fishing license is required for all waters in this area. You can purchase one online through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website or at local sporting goods retailers in Kemmerer. Check the current regulations for any slot limits or gear restrictions specific to Fontenelle Reservoir before you go.
For Fontenelle, a medium-action spinning or casting rod handles the range of species well — trout setups work for rainbows and browns, but if you want to target smallmouth bass or burbot you'll want heavier line and appropriate lures or bait rigs. Wind on the reservoir can be significant, so a boat or float tube with an anchor is more practical than bank fishing in the afternoon. Layers are worth packing regardless of the season given the elevation.
