Mountain Whitefish
Mountain Whitefish are one of Wyoming's most widely distributed native salmonids, found throughout western drainages. They are an important indicator species for healthy, pollution-free watersheds.
Scientific Name: Prosopium williamsoni
- Silvery, torpedo-shaped fish distinguished from trout by their larger scales, small mouth positioned underneath a pointed snout, and lack of teeth.
- They typically range 10-16 inches with the Wyoming potential reaching up to 22 inches and 4+ pounds.
Fishing in Wyoming
North Platte River
Alcova Reservoir
Muddy Creek
Elkhorn Creek
Pathfinder Reservoir
Wolf Creek
Clear Fork Muddy Creek
Bates Creek Reservoir
Bolton Creek
Deer Creek
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Found throughout western drainages including the Snake River system, Green River drainage, and North Platte River basin.
Key Locations
- Snake River system around Jackson, including Jackson Lake, Jenny Lake, and the Snake River itself.
- Hoback River, Greys River, Salt River, and Gros Ventre River systems.
- Snake River below Jackson Lake Dam.
Specific Spots
- Target deep pools, slow runs, and areas with gravel or rocky bottoms.
- Prefer deep pools (minimum 3+ feet deep).
- They congregate over gravel areas during spawning.
Mountain Whitefish FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What flies work for Mountain Whitefish in Wyoming?
Small beadhead nymphs, particularly Prince Nymphs (sizes 14-22), Copper Johns, beadhead Pheasant Tail nymphs, small midge patterns, weighted caddis larvae, stonefly nymphs.
When is the best time to fish for Mountain Whitefish in Wyoming?
Late fall through early spring when they're most active, with winter being particularly productive. Avoid targeting them during October-December spawning period.
How do you catch Mountain Whitefish in Wyoming?
Euro-nymphing techniques work exceptionally well, drifting small nymphs close to the bottom with enough weight to get down quickly. For conventional tackle, drift bait near the bottom with split shot. A 'Dirty Pool' method combines fly fishing with bait by tipping small flies with waxworms.
What do Mountain Whitefish eat?
Demersal feeders that stir up substrate with their fins to expose aquatic insect larvae, primarily feeding on chironomid larvae, mayfly nymphs, caddis larvae, stonefly nymphs, and midges. They also consume terrestrial insects, small crustaceans, amphipods, and fish e.g.gs.
Where do Mountain Whitefish live in Wyoming?
Found throughout western drainages including the Snake River system, Green River drainage, and North Platte River basin.
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