Fly Fishing Green River - Headwaters

Fly fishing the Green River at its headwaters near Green River Lakes unveils one of the most scenic and untouched trout waters in the American West. Emerging from the glacial lakes at the base of Wyoming’s Wind River Range, this freestone stream winds through alpine meadows, dense pine forests, and under the towering granite spires of Squaretop Mountain. With cold, crystal-clear flows and easily accessible pools, runs, and riffles, this section is a haven for anglers seeking solitude, wild fish, and high-country beauty.

During late spring and early summer (June–July), melting snow from the Wind River Range swells the flows, creating deeper runs and fast-moving pocket water. While runoff can limit access, early season fly fishing is still possible in protected eddies and tributary mouths. As flows recede in mid to late summer (July–September), optimal wading conditions return, revealing gravel bars, braided channels, and sight-fishing opportunities in knee-deep riffles.

Hatches in the headwaters are dominated by midges, blue-winged olives, caddis, and small stoneflies, with peak dry fly action occurring from late July through early September. Terrestrial season begins in earnest by August, with hoppers, beetles, and ants becoming go-to flies along grassy cutbanks and under overhanging spruce branches. Dry-dropper setups with attractor dries like Parachute Adams or Purple Haze, trailed by a pheasant tail or zebra midge, are a consistent producer.

Trout in this section are mostly wild and include brook trout, cutthroat trout, and rainbow trout, often willing to rise in clear daylight to well-presented flies. The fish aren't huge, but the setting—surrounded by alpine peaks and unpressured water—makes every take memorable.

Access is simple: park at the Green River Lakes Trailhead and walk downstream along well-worn trails that parallel the river. Whether casting dries to rising trout beneath Squaretop’s reflection or drifting nymphs through alpine pools, the Green River headwaters deliver classic small-stream fly fishing with stunning views and consistent seasonal hatches.

Before you go, check downstream Green River flows near Daniel to estimate water levels, and consult our live hatch chart for up-to-date insect activity and recommended flies. For anglers who value wild trout, mountain solitude, and dry fly takes in gin-clear water, the Green River Lakes section is the perfect high-country escape.