Wyoming Game and Fish Proposes New Regulations to Protect North Platte River Fishery

In response to growing concerns over fish mortality linked to catch-and-release practices, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) has proposed new fishing regulations for the North Platte River.

These measures aim to safeguard the trout population and maintain the river’s reputation as a premier fishing destination.

The iconic Gray Reef section, known for its year-round trout-friendly waters, has faced increasing pressure from anglers. Over the years, the number of boats in this section and the Miracle Mile stretch has skyrocketed, rising from around 1,000 in 2001 to nearly 6,500 in 2022. A recent study revealed that approximately 25% of fish caught and released sustain fatal injuries from fishing hooks, prompting the WGFD to consider stricter rules.

The new measures include:

• Restricting boats in a section above the Seminoe Road bridge on the Miracle Mile.
• Requiring barbless hooks between Kortes Dam and Highway 220.
• Limiting tackle to artificial flies only at Fremont Canyon and Gray Reef.
• Creating additional spawning closures.

Barbless hooks, already a common requirement in other states, help minimize injuries to fish by reducing tears during extraction. The WGFD hopes that implementing such restrictions will prevent the need for artificial fish stocking and protect the river’s natural trout population.

Blake Jackson, co-owner of the Ugly Bug Fly Shop and Crazy Rainbow Fly Fishing, supports the proposed changes, emphasizing the need for responsible management of natural resources.

“These changes can lead to improvement,” Jackson said.

He pointed to factors like fishing pressure and sediment accumulation as contributors to the current problem.

The department’s efforts have also sparked conversations about commercial outfitters. Jackson recently testified before the Wyoming Legislature, advocating for limits on out-of-state guides to reduce river congestion and protect local resources.

WGFD is encouraging public participation in discussions about the proposed regulations. Two open-house meetings will be held this week:

• Casper: Tuesday, February 4, at 6:00 p.m. at the Casper Regional Game and Fish Office, 3030 Energy Lane.
• Rawlins: Wednesday, February 5, at 6:00 p.m. at the Jeffrey Memorial Community Center, 315 W. Pine St.

Matt Hahn, WGFD Casper Regional Fisheries Supervisor, stressed the importance of community engagement.

“These discussions are essential to maintaining the health and sustainability of the North Platte River drainage fisheries for future generations,” Hahn said.

With input from Oil City News and K2 Radio.