Are There Walleyes in Wyoming?
Walleyes are present in Wyoming in select reservoirs and rivers, though they are less abundant than in northern states. They inhabit cool water systems in the western and central parts of the state. Wyoming offers opportunities for walleye fishing in specific waters where they have established populations. The cooler seasons provide the best walleye fishing across the state.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated August 6, 2026.
Walleyes are present in Wyoming in select reservoirs and rivers, though they are less abundant than in northern states. They inhabit cool water systems in the western and central parts of the state. Wyoming offers opportunities for walleye fishing in specific waters where they have established populations. The cooler seasons provide the best walleye fishing across the state.
Where in Wyoming the Walleye is Found
Walleyes are found in select locations throughout Wyoming, primarily in reservoirs and larger rivers. Yellowstone Lake in Yellowstone National Park supports a historic walleye population, though the lake is managed by the National Park Service with specific regulations.Buffalo Bill Reservoirnear Cody is one of Wyoming's premier walleye waters. This reservoir provides consistent walleye populations and is a popular destination for walleye anglers. The North Platte River drainage contains walleyes in various sections, particularly in reservoir systems along the river. Seminoe Reservoir and Alcova Reservoir, both along the North Platte, hold walleyes. Flaming Gorge Reservoir, which Wyoming shares with Utah, contains walleyes and offers extensive habitat. Keyhole Reservoir in northeastern Wyoming supports walleyes in cooler, deeper sections. Pathfinder Reservoir west of Casper provides walleye fishing opportunities. Some smaller lakes and reservoirs throughout the state contain walleyes as well. Walleyes are more concentrated in certain areas than others, reflecting their establishment through both natural reproduction and historical stocking. TheWyoming wildlife guideprovides details on current regulations and conditions. Seethe Walleye guide for Wyomingfor more.
Season and Timing
Walleye activity in Wyoming varies with seasonal changes, though the state's cooler climate keeps walleyes active longer into summer than in southern states. Spring, from May through June, brings walleyes into shallower water for spawning in Wyoming reservoirs. Water temperatures trigger spawning when they reach the 40 to 50 degree Fahrenheit range. Summer fishing is possible in early morning and late evening, particularly in deeper water. The thermocline in large reservoirs like Buffalo Bill becomes important in mid to late summer as walleyes retreat to cooler, deeper layers. Early fall, from August through September, provides some of the best walleye fishing as water cools and walleyes return to shallower feeding areas. The cooler fall water temperatures mean walleyes are more active throughout the day. Winter conditions vary across Wyoming depending on elevation and latitude. Ice fishing is possible on some Wyoming reservoirs in northern regions. Walleyes generally remain active under winter ice but become more concentrated in deeper areas. Spring and fall typically provide the most consistent and accessible walleye fishing opportunities throughout the state.
How to Identify a Walleye
Walleyes are distinctive fish that are easy to identify with a little knowledge. The most notable feature is their large, glassy eye with a reflective quality. This eye appears to glow in low light conditions and gives walleyes their name. The eye is positioned forward on the head, giving walleyes excellent vision in dim water. The body is elongated with two dorsal fins, the first spined and the second soft-rayed. Coloration ranges from olive to golden brown on the back, gradually fading to white or cream on the belly. The body is somewhat laterally compressed. Some walleyes display faint bands or blotches along the sides. The tail is forked and powerful. The mouth is large and full of sharp teeth, adapted for catching small fish. Walleyes in Wyoming typically measure from 12 to 24 inches long, though some larger specimens exist in the best water bodies. Females generally grow larger than males. Males often have more intense coloring, particularly during spawning season. The combination of the large reflective eye and the overall body shape makes walleyes unmistakable once you see one.
Where Sightings Concentrate in Wyoming
In Wyoming's reservoirs, walleyes concentrate in specific habitats based on water depth and temperature. Deep water basins in Buffalo Bill Reservoir and Flaming Gorge hold walleyes during summer months. Rocky points and transitions from shallow to deep water attract walleyes during spring and fall. Submerged structures including old roadbeds, dam spillways, and log accumulations provide cover and hunting grounds. In Yellowstone Lake, walleyes concentrate in deeper sections away from shallow bays. The steeper drop-off areas around Yellowstone Lake's northern and western shores hold walleyes. Current breaks in river sections of reservoirs concentrate walleyes year-round. Inlet areas where tributaries enter reservoirs provide oxygen and concentrate food sources. Walleyes are more visible during dawn and dusk when they move toward shallower feeding areas. During bright sunny days, they retreat to deeper water and are harder to locate. The thermocline in summer acts as a barrier beneath which walleyes remain. Night fishing in shallow water can be productive inWyoming reservoirs. In lakes and reservoirs with abundant weeds, walleyes use vegetation edges for ambush hunting. Proper habitat knowledge increases fishing success throughout Wyoming.
Typical Behavior
Walleyes are ambush predators that rely on their large, reflective eyes for hunting in dim conditions. They spend most of the day in deep water, resting near structure. At dawn and dusk, walleyes move toward shallower areas to feed actively. They prefer low light conditions for hunting and are most active during these periods. Walleyes primarily eat smaller fish including shiners, perch, sculpins, and young trout. In Wyoming's reservoirs where forage fish are available, walleyes can grow relatively quickly. They are solitary hunters that remain motionless, waiting for prey to pass within striking distance. When prey appears, walleyes accelerate rapidly to capture it. Their forward-facing eyes give them excellent depth perception for low light hunting. Walleyes are more wary than many other fish species and are easily disturbed. They are not aggressive fish and do not attack humans. During spawning season in spring, males gather in shallow, rocky areas. Females spawn over rocky substrate in slightly deeper water. Walleyes can live 12 to 15 years in Wyoming waters. They do not jump when hooked and rely on power and weight to escape.
Coexistence and Safety
Walleyes were historically present in Wyoming waters and have been maintained through both natural reproduction and stocking efforts. They are not native to all Wyoming water bodies but have become established in select reservoirs. Walleyes pose no threat to humans and are not aggressive fish. They are fully protected under Wyoming fishing regulations. Anglers must possess a valid Wyoming fishing license. Specific regulations govern walleye harvest in different water bodies. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department manages walleye populations to maintain sustainable fisheries. Some walleye populations are self-sustaining through natural reproduction, while others require periodic stocking. Water quality and adequate forage fish populations are critical for walleye success. Climate change and drought conditions can negatively impact walleye habitat. Pollution and habitat degradation remain conservation concerns. If you encounter walleyes while boating or swimming, simply ignore them as they avoid humans by retreating to deeper water. Walleyes are not dangerous and will not approach humans. Proper catch and release practices support walleye conservation. Following state regulations ensures walleye populations remain healthy for future generations.
Common Species People Confuse with Walleyes
Several fish species in Wyoming waters can be mistaken for walleyes, though they have distinctive differences. Saugers, a close relative of the walleye, are smaller and have a dark blotch on the gill cover. Saugers also display distinct dark spots on their dorsal fin. Yellow perch are common in some Wyoming waters but are much smaller than walleyes. Perch have vertical band patterns and lack the walleye's large reflective eye. Northern pike inhabit some Wyoming reservoirs and are easily distinguished from walleyes. Pike have a more elongated body and a flattened, broader head. Pike lack the walleye's distinctive eye. White bass are silver-colored fish found in some reservoirs and lack the walleye's coloring and eye. Smallmouth and largemouth bass are found in warmer water and have different body shape and coloring. Walleye fingerlings can be confused with perch, but the walleye's eye becomes distinctive as it grows. Cutthroat trout are native to Wyoming waters and are easily distinguished by their red throat markings. Rainbow trout lack the walleye's distinctive eye and have different body coloration. Taking time to learn walleye features ensures accurate identification of all Wyoming fish species.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish for walleyes in Wyoming? Early morning and late evening during spring and fall provide excellent walleye fishing. Night fishing is productive in summer when daytime heat forces walleyes to deep water. Are walleyes safe to eat from Wyoming reservoirs? Walleyes are generally safe and good eating in Wyoming waters. Check current fish consumption advisories from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, as specific reservoirs may have restrictions. How deep do walleyes go in Wyoming? In summer, walleyes retreat to depths of 30 to 50 feet or more in deep reservoirs. In spring and fall, they move into 10 to 25 feet of water. Winter depths depend on ice thickness and available habitat. Can I fish for walleyes in Yellowstone Lake? Yes, but Yellowstone Lake is managed by the National Park Service with specific rules. Only designated fishing areas are open. A Yellowstone park fishing permit is required in addition to a Wyoming license. Always check current regulations at visitor centers. Visit thewildlife guidesto learn about other species and fishing opportunities.
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