Fishing Boysen Lake
AKA: Boysen Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Boysen Lake, WY
Walleye Fishing
This is a very popular walleye fishing destination as a healthy population of walleye are thriving in the waters of Boysen Lake. Sauger are also present in fewer numbers. The fishery is well managed by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower and closer to shore. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, stay around schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times. When the lake freezes over in winter, ice fishing for walleye can be very productive. Use GPS to locate spots you normally fish during other times of the year.
Black Crappie Fishing
Boysen Lake holds a respectable population of black crappie, and they are running very good sizes this year. Crappie fishing is easy and requires simple, basic gear. Any fishing pole, reasonably small line and crappie jigs or small hooks baited with live bait, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to maintain. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing is often a great way to catch a nice bunch of slabs. Because crappie always like cover and structure, so locate brush and vegetation. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water.
Rainbow Trout Fishing
This year, fishing for rainbow trout in Boysen Lake continues to be very productive for local anglers. Cutthroat and brown trout also reside here, and are quite frequently caught as well. Fish for rainbow trout here with worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic their preferred prey. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for channel catfish, black crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, brown trout, yellow perch and sauger at Boysen Lake in Wyoming.
Boysen Lake Fishing Video
Come enjoy the vast waters of Boysen Lake, aka Boysen Reservoir, a 19,500-acre lake in the central part of Wyoming. There are over 75 miles of shoreline with eleven campgrounds scattered all around the lake.
Nestled in central Wyoming, Boysen Lake is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts seeking a diverse angling experience. Spanning over 19,000 acres, this expansive reservoir offers abundant fishing opportunities in a stunning natural setting. Anglers flock to Boysen Lake for its diverse fish species, including walleye, trout, catfish, and smallmouth bass. The lake's thriving walleye population, in particular, draws anglers from far and wide, as these prized fish offer both exciting battles and delicious table fare.
Boysen Lake stands as a remarkable destination for fishing, boating, and camping in Wyoming. Whether you're seeking the thrill of reeling in a walleye, exploring the vast waters by boat, or embracing the serenity of lakeside camping, Boysen Lake offers a memorable outdoor experience for all who venture to its shores.
Fishing enthusiasts will discover catfish, crappie, walleye, trout, perch and sauger in these fertile waters. Boat launch ramps, a marina, lodging, stores and restaurants are all close at hand to enhance your stay. Access to the shore for fishing from the bank is available at all campgrounds as well as other public areas around the lake. For those who enjoy ice fishing, Boysen Reservoir is a prime spot as soon as the ice is safe. Although this is a large body of water, canoes, kayaks and car-topper boats are popular ways to fish this lake.
Primary fish species residing in Boysen Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Boysen Lake Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: NEARBY
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boysen Lake is not just a haven for fishing; it also caters to boating enthusiasts looking to make the most of their time on the water. With its vast surface area and numerous bays, the lake provides ample space for boaters to explore, water ski, or simply enjoy a leisurely cruise. The lake's boat ramps and marinas accommodate various watercraft, allowing visitors to indulge in their favorite boating activities. Whether you prefer the thrill of speed or the serenity of a sunset sail, Boysen Lake has something for every boating enthusiast.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Brannon Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Brannon Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Cottonwood Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, off W Shore Drive, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.
Lakeside Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off US Highway 26, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Poison Creek - Boysen State Campground Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off US Highway 26, this is a primitive natural ramp with gravel parking.
Fishing Guides On Boysen Lake
Recycled Eyez Walleye Guides - walleye
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Wyoming Fishing License.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area, Boysen Lake offers several campgrounds that cater to both tent camping and RVs. Whether you choose to pitch a tent along the shoreline or enjoy the comforts of an RV site, camping at Boysen Lake allows you to wake up to stunning sunrises, enjoy the tranquil ambiance of the lake, and be surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Wyoming landscape. Campers can also take advantage of nearby hiking trails, wildlife watching opportunities, and the chance to gather around a campfire under the starlit sky.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Tamarask Campground - 307 876-2796
Tough Creek Campground - 307 876-2796
Poison Creek Campground - 307 876-2796
Wind River RV Park - 307 857-3000
Ox Yoke RV Park - 775 848-2029
Boysen Lake WY Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Boysen Lake
Boysen State Park Office
15 Ash St
Shoshoni, WY 82649
307 876-2796
Fishing lakes in each state.
070624
Boysen Lake in Wyoming.
WYOMING
Information about fishing lakes in Wyoming
Boysen Lake offers catfish, crappie, walleye, trout, perch and sauger fishing in central WY.
