Fly Fishing North Platte River - Above Seminoe

Fly fishing North Platte River above Seminoe Reservoir offers anglers a chance to explore a remote, high-desert stretch of the North Platte before it enters Seminoe Reservoir. This section, flowing through the sagebrush plains north of Sinclair, WY, is a classic freestone river known for its strong populations of Brown and Rainbow Trout. In spring, snowmelt from the Medicine Bow and Sierra Madre ranges can swell flows well above 1,500 CFS, making boating the preferred approach. By mid to late summer, however, flows recede to a comfortable 100–400 CFS, exposing gravel bars and runs that are very wadable. Late summer and fall are prime for wading anglers – water clarity improves and trout stack up in predictable lies, hungry after spring's high water. Access to this reach is limited and requires some effort, preserving its lightly-fished character. Anglers often launch drift boats at Bennett Peak or Treasure Island and then stop to wade fish productive banks and riffles. Terrestrial fishing is a highlight in this arid country – from July onward, grasshoppers abound in the bankside grasslands, and trout eagerly slam hopper and ant patterns drifted along undercut banks. Nymphing with stonefly and mayfly imitations is effective year-round, especially in deeper runs below riffles where brown trout lie. Streamer fishing can also produce big browns, particularly on overcast days in autumn when these predatory fish become aggressive before the spawn. This above-Seminoe stretch sees relatively low angling pressure and rewards the adventurous with quality wild trout. Brown trout in the 14–18 inch range are common, and rainbows up to 20 inches patrol the runs, flashing silver in the sunlight. The scenery is rugged and open – red rock outcrops and panoramic views of the Ferris Mountains accompany your day on the water. Wildlife sightings might include pronghorn antelope or wild mustangs on the hillsides. For anglers seeking solitude and wild trout in a quintessential Wyoming setting, the North Platte above Seminoe delivers an unforgettable fly fishing experience off the beaten path.