The Encampment River doesn’t get the respect it deserves
The Encampment River flows fairly close to one of the best known trout streams in Wyoming, the North Platte . Because of this, the Encampment is often ignored, much to the delight of savvy anglers.
The Encampment flows out of Colorado into Wyoming near the Encampment River Wilderness Area. It then flows through the canyon for 18 miles through Medicine Bow National Forest. It then dumps into the plains just north of Encampment, Wyoming.
This upper portion flows almost entirely through public lands and the fishing and camping access is excellent. Below the towns of Encampment and Riverside, the river snakes through private land.
Limited Access On the lower river
The only public access is 12 miles below Riverside at a one mile section of state land called Baggott Rocks. This area gets hammered by wade fishermen. Some guides will launch there in late June and early July to float the river.
A Great Hatch
This is the only time of year when there is enough water to float the river. This is also when the Encampment River has it's amazing green drake hatch. During the hatch the fly fisherman can catch browns and rainbows from 16 to 22 inches on big bushy dry flies. From Baggott Rocks down stream you can't drop an anchor or get out of the raft until you reach Treasure Island on the North Platte.
The hatches are good in the upper section of the river in the canyon at this time of year. Bring PMD's, elk hair caddis and goddard caddis as well as streamers and nymphs.
Excellent Access
The public section of water offers great fishing for browns and rainbows from 12 to 14 inches for almost 18 miles. The best time to fish the public canyon water is in the fall. Big streamers and nymphs will draw strikes from the biggest fish.
Regardless of the time of year or the section of river you decide to fish, the Encampment River is an excellent trout stream. The Encampment River offers plenty of access and great fishing, so give it a try the next time your in the area.
Tags: 
