Fishing at Boulder Lake, Sublette County, Wyoming

• Overview

  This water sits in Sublette County, Wyoming. The ground around here is rolling bush. Roughly 2.6 sq miles of surface: treat each bay as a water in its own right. The edge covers about 12 miles, enough to hold several distinct areas. It ranks high for size among our Sublette County listings. Pinedale is the closest town at 10 miles. Beyond it, Marbleton at 30 miles and Fort Washakie at 41 miles. The county line is nowhere near, so one local authority covers the water.

• Where to Fish on Boulder Lake

  There is no published depth for this one, so start shallow and work out. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Reported across Sublette County: brook trout, rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout and white sucker. The county list is broader than any single water. Boulder Lake gives up its fish to patience rather than distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-term averages put July at about 57°F and January near 14°F. Four clear seasons, with a proper winter at one end. The freeze runs deep into the year, with break-up near early May. Ice usually gives way near early May, and forms again about mid November. The strongest runs come at either end of the open season. It sets the rhythm of the year at Boulder Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  No access rule appears in what we hold. No made access appears within a short radius, so plan to park on a verge and walk. For the trout, small spinners and a box of nymphs cover both approaches. Some banks are open only from a marked point. Some water is controlled locally without a sign saying so. If the gate is shut, Burnt Lake at 2.2 miles is the nearest alternative. Signs at Boulder Lake carry more weight than any list.