Lake McLain, Wyoming: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Lake McLain sits in Big Horn County, out in Wyoming. Land around it is rolling bush. At 17 acres it is the sort of place you fish for an evening rather than a day. Buffalo sits 24 miles from here and is the nearest stop. Further out sit Sheridan (41 miles) and Worland (43 miles). Within a short run: Maybelle Lake some 0.5 miles off, East Tensleep Lake at 1.3 miles, Lost Twin Lakes some 3.6 miles off and Firehole Lakes at 4.5 miles. No county line comes close, which keeps the paperwork simple.

• Where to Fish on Lake McLain

  The records we hold are silent on depth, so plan to find it yourself. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. Where the bottom changes texture, fish gather; find that line. County-wide records name brook trout, rainbow trout, brown trout, white sucker and common carp. The county list is broader than any single water. Lake McLain gives up its fish to patience rather than distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 51°F, the coldest about 15°F. The middle months are generous; the ends are demanding. Ice is part of the season here, ending near early June. Going by climate averages, expect open water from about early June until roughly early November. The strongest runs come at either end of the open season. That shapes the year on Lake McLain.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public data does not answer the access question here. Mapping is blank for access, so scout the approach before committing the car. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Where a permit is needed, the nearest town usually sells it. Some water is controlled locally without a sign saying so. If the gate is shut, Maybelle Lake at 0.5 miles is the nearest alternative. Check the position on Lake McLain before loading the car.