Fishing Pathfinder Reservoir

AKA: Pathfinder Lake

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Popular Fish Species Pathfinder Reservoir, WY

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Walleye Fishing

A healthy population of walleye are thriving in the waters of Pathfinder Reservoir this year. 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.

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Rainbow Trout Fishing

Annual rainbow trout stocking makes fishing for rainbows in Pathfinder Reservoir continues to be very productive for local anglers. 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.

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Brown Trout Fishing

Thanks to a good stocking program of brown trout over the years, fishing for brown trout in Pathfinder Reservoir is delivering some nice catches. These hearty fighters migrate around the lake in search of baitfish and comfortable water temperatures, preferably in the 50 to 62 degree range. In spring brown trout, along with the baitfish, move to the shallows which warms first. As the days get warmer in summer they move deeper, again following schools of bait. As Fall and Winter arrive, browns tend to stay in deeper water. When these trout move deep, it is typically in the 20- to 45-foot range. Nightcrawlers are always a good bait for brown trout. In-line spinners, bait-colored crankbaits and small spoons are other options. Experiment with depth and retrieve speed. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.

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Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for walleye, rainbow trout, brown trout and cutthroat trout at Pathfinder Reservoir in Wyoming.

Pathfinder Reservoir Fishing Video

Home to Wyoming's biggest ice fishing derby, Pathfinder Reservoir, aka Pathfinder Lake, is year round trout and walleye fishery. This 22,000-acre lake is situated in the central part of the state, near Alcova, WY.

Located in central Wyoming, Pathfinder Reservoir offers an exciting and diverse fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels. This expansive reservoir, formed by the Pathfinder Dam on the North Platte River, is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers flock to Pathfinder Reservoir for its wide variety of fish species, including walleye, trout, crappie, catfish, and smallmouth bass. The reservoir's fertile waters and healthy fish populations make it a prime destination for those seeking both quantity and quality catches.

Pathfinder Reservoir, with its exceptional fishing opportunities, invigorating boating experiences, and convenient camping sites, stands as a remarkable destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Wyoming. Whether you're an avid angler, a boating aficionado, or simply seeking solace in nature, Pathfinder Reservoir offers a memorable retreat. Its diverse fish species, expansive waters, and stunning surroundings create an unforgettable outdoor experience that will leave visitors with cherished memories of their time spent in this natural wonderland.

This mountain lake has 117 miles of rocky shoreline and deep cold waters which creates an ideal home for trout and walleye. Camping at the lake is limited but there is one RV spot at the Pathfinder Marina. The marina also has a boat launch and store with fishing gear, bait, groceries and camping supplies.

Primary fish species residing in Pathfinder Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Pathfinder Reservoir Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: NEARBY

Today's Weather & Forecast

Pathfinder Reservoir is not only a paradise for fishing but also a haven for boating enthusiasts. The reservoir's vast surface area and calm waters create an ideal setting for various water activities. Whether you prefer boating, water skiing, or simply cruising along the expansive reservoir, Pathfinder offers ample space for boaters to enjoy their preferred water adventures. Boat ramps and marinas are available, ensuring easy access and convenience for boaters looking to explore the reservoir's scenic beauty.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Bishop Point Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, northeast side, off Bishop Point Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Pathfinder Marina Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Pathfinder Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Marinas

Pathfinder Marina
F49G+5M
Alcova, Wyoming
307 259-1792

Fishing Guides On Pathfinder Reservoir

Live Water Anglers, Guided Fishing Trips - trout, 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 extend their stay, Pathfinder Reservoir offers camping facilities that allow visitors to fully embrace the natural beauty of the area. Campgrounds equipped with amenities such as picnic areas, fire pits, and restrooms provide a comfortable camping experience. Wake up to breathtaking sunrises over the reservoir, spend the day fishing or boating, and wind down in the evenings while enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the campsite.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Pathfinder Marina Campground - 307 259-1792

Bishop Point Campground - 307 235-9200

Sage Campground - 307 235-9200

Diabase Campground - 307 235-9200

Weiss Campground - 307 235-9200

Pathfinder Reservoir WY Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Pathfinder Reservoir
Pathfinder Marina
Alcova, WY 82620
307 259-1792

Fishing lakes in each state.

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