Wyoming, NY Fishing: More Angling Opportunities in the Equal State

Wyoming is a county in the western area of New York. The county’s seat is located at Warsaw, a modified name from a Lenape Native American word meaning “broad bottomlands.”  One of the most agricultural counties housing around 47,000 dairy cows. The country has a total area of 596 square miles. Wyoming County is bounded southeast by the Genesee River, drained by its tributaries. You can also find the Tonawanda, Buffalo, and other creeks.  

Wyoming County, just like the rest of Western New York, was part of the disputed territory during the 17th and 18th centuries. It was claimed by the Massachusetts Bay Colony, New York Colony, Pennsylvania Colony, and New France. Wyoming was once part of Albany County during 1683. Albany County was then reduced in size on July 3, 1766, to give way to the creation of Cumberland County. Further, on March 16, 1770, Gloucester County was created. Several Counties later, Wyoming county was built in 1841. Wyoming was created from the southern half of Genesee County and the northwest corner of Allegany County. Wyoming is also composed of a small portion of the northeast corner of Cattaraugus County.

Today, Wyoming is known for its historic places and structures. Furthermore, the multiple angling opportunities in the area are incomparable to its bordering counties. Anglers flock yearly to experience a different kind of angling action. People visit the place for various recreational activities that families and friends enjoy.

Wyoming Fishing 

Fishing in New York is possible year-round, the same for Wyoming. Fly fishing in the county is a famous technique that local and visiting anglers use to yield a productive catch. But, what is it like to fly fish in different seasons? 

Fly fishing during the winter is perhaps one of the best times to go wade fishing on the North Platte. The water flows during this season are low, and the water is clearer as the weeds have all vanished. One can easily spot fish piled up in the tail-outs in areas with deep runs and those areas that are shadier than the others. Wyoming’s winter   fishing may still yield  a productive catch as the county experiences a “dry cold.” Mostly, when the temperature hits 30 degrees or more, the sun is up, and the weather is quite pleasant. During this season, there is not much wind, which is suitable for wade fishing.

November and December are the best months to land on some rainbow trout as they flock into the Big Lake. Late February is also a month to look forward to, especially when you want to land on some 20” of trout or more, especially in the Big Lake. During this time, trout get ready for spawning. Thus, they are hungry and actively looking for food. 

Spring Fly Fishing does not fall short of the fly fishing experience you will get in a winter month. It is the best season to go angling in Wyoming when you want a productive catch. During this time of the year, the area between Grey Reef and Lusby holds around 8,000 mature fish species 20” long or more. Likewise, this season is usually the pre-spawning period of different fish species. Thus, fish in the area are actively looking for food. 

Fly Fishing in Summer is consistent. During June, the mature fish begin moving off the spawning beds and disperse into different directions across the entire river. Once July is on the corner, the Upper Grey Reef sections get weedy, making angling a challenge. Thus if you visit Wyoming during the summer, you must focus on the portions near the Government Bridge to Casper. As the summer flows become higher, fish are pushed towards the banks. 

Lastly, fly fishing during fall is also great, especially during September. During this month, the water in the rivers becomes very clear; thus, fishing becomes more accessible during these times. 

Indeed, fly fishing is possible all year round, no matter the season. It can yield you a good catch of black crappie, bluegill, common carp, golden shiner, green sunfish, lake trout, smallmouth bass, pumpkinseed, rock bass, walleye, and many more. But where are the best places to go angling to when you are in Wyoming, New York?

Going to Yellowstone National Park is something you would not want to miss during your Wyoming visit. The National Park is known for its stunning scenery and great fly fishing experience. The park holds multiple lakes and great streams if you plan to land on some trout and bass. Fishing in the area from mid-May until early November is the best time to land on seven species of fish: brown trout, cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, brook trout, lake trout, grayling whitefish, and mountain whitefish.

The Big/Little Laramie Rivers is another fishing spot you would want to visit when in the county if you’re going to catch some brown trout. This river is ideal for beginners and not-so-experienced anglers. 

The Wind River Range is another hotspot for fly fishing. The river is vast and is filled with different varieties. This place is perfect for those anglers who are looking for some peace and quiet. 

Overall, almost all lakes and freshwaters inside the county yield excellent produce from different fish species. It also caters to different types of anglers, from beginners to professionals. 

Top 10 Fish Species in Wyoming, NY

The top 10 fish species in Wyoming are black crappie, bluegill, common carp, green sunfish, lake trout, smallmouth bass, pumpkinseed, rock bass, walleye, and mountain whitefish.

Fishing Seasonality

New York angling does not fall short in comparison to other states. Its diverse ecosystem makes a thriving environment for different fish species making angling year-round possible. But, the best times to fish are during spring, summer, and fall. 

Fishing season in Wyoming runs from mid-May until the beginning of November. This means three months of awesome and productive angling action. Fishing in the county is permitted year-round, twenty-four hours a day in most water bodies. However, certain exemptions are provided by the Commission regulation for specific areas, streams, and lakes. Furthermore, the 2003 Wyoming Legislature approved the creation of an annual Wyoming Free Fishing Day. The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission designated the Free Fishing Day as part of the Fishing and Boating Week.

There are also specific regulations when Ice fishing, entering a contest, transporting live fish, acquiring baitfish, landing on some trophy fish, and many more. That is why you must check on the website of the particular place you are going to visit before planning your trip to the area. This is to prepare the things you need to bring, pack, organize, and the things you need to expect when visiting a place in Wyoming.

Wyoming Has More to Offer

Wyoming is not just an angling place. It is also a good place for families to explore different historical museums, parks, and sites. Here are some of the things you can do while in Wyoming, New York.

1. Book a Fishing Charter

Wyoming, NY, is home to different lakes and tributaries. Thus, fishing for the first time can be a bit overwhelming. Booking a fishing charter with experienced guides in the area will help you attain one of the best angling experiences you’ll get in the country. 

2. Visit Hillside Inn

Hillside Inn is a historic place that features a classic Greek revival mansion. Pliny Hayes was first built as a Water Cure establishment in 1851. Later on, it became a bed and breakfast inn in 2012. Today, the place overlooks the village of Wyoming. It also hosted Susan B. Anthony, John Muir, Theodore, and Franklin D. Roosevelt.

3. Take a Peek in the Middlebury Academy

The Academy was built in 1817 and was chartered by the New York Regents in 1819. It is believed to be the first institution of higher education in West Genesee County in New York. Today, the academy stands in Wyoming as a museum by the Middlebury Historical Society. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as of 1980.