New fishing regulations at Flaming Gorge Reservoir are now in effect. The popular reservoir in Southwest Wyoming is known for its Lake Trout fishing among other species, and the new reservoir-wide regs developed by Wyoming Game and Fish and Utah Division of Wildlife Resources are intended to reduce the number of small lake trout in the reservoir. The regulations actually went into effect on the Wyoming side of the reservoir in October 2024--Utah’s regulations went into effect Jan. 1, 2025.
The regulation changes aim to benefit the reservoir's kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout populations by giving angers the ability to harvest an unlimited number of smaller lake trout—those less than or equal to 28 inches. The creel and possession limit on lake trout over 28 inches is still one. Anglers fishing the Wyoming side of the Gorge can fillet their lake trout anytime during the day because they are classified as a nongame species.
The new regulations also allow anglers to legally dispose of unwanted small lake trout, but these smaller lake trout make excellent table fare. Even though anglers can legally dispose of the smaller lake trout, Game and Fish encourages anglers to care for their catch and consider sharing them with friends and family if they do not want to consume them.
While ice at the gorge is getting a slow start this winter, anglers are reminded of two major fishing contests in the state. The Burbot Bash and the Mac Attack are coming up soon, providing two excellent opportunities to harvest burbot and small lake trout. The Burbot Bash is scheduled for Jan. 24-26, and the Mac Attack Fishing Contest, targeting lake trout is Feb. 15-17. You can get details on prizes and how to enter by visiting those contests’ websites.
Wyoming Game and Fish Department