North Platte River
OptimalWyoming
Current Conditions
The North Platte River is running at 917 CFS — ideal conditions. Expect clear water and excellent dry fly opportunities.
Last updated: Mar 30, 2026, 2:45 AM from USGS gauge 06630000 (North Platte near Saratoga)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 500–1200 CFS | Fishable to 2500 CFS | Marginal to 4000 CFS
About the North Platte River
The North Platte's Miracle Mile and Grey Reef sections below reservoirs are among Wyoming's finest tailwater fisheries. Cold dam releases create ideal trout habitat, with fish averaging 16-18 inches and trophies over 24 inches regularly caught.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18-20 | ||||||||||||
Pale Morning Dun PMD Sparkle Dun #16 | ||||||||||||
Trico Trico Spinner #20-22 | ||||||||||||
Midge Zebra Midge #18-22 | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #14-16 |
Active Hatches — March
Patterns: BWO Parachute #18-20, RS2 #20
Patterns: Zebra Midge #18-22, Griffith's Gnat #20
River Sections
Miracle Mile
wade access917 CFS
Between Seminoe and Pathfinder reservoirs. Famous for trophy trout in a high desert setting.
Grey Reef
wade/float access67 CFS
Below Grey Reef Dam. Blue-ribbon tailwater with 4,000+ trout per mile. World-class nymphing.
Guides on the North Platte River(28)
These fishing guides list the North Platte River as one of their home waters.
Bill Dvorak’s Expeditions
Nathrop, Colorado
Bucking Rainbow Outfitters
Steamboat Spgs, Colorado
Fly Fishing Services
Littleton, Colorado
Grand County Fly Fishing
Fraser, Colorado
North Park Anglers
Walden, Colorado
Yampa Valley Anglers
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Columbine Flyfishers
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Backcountry Hunting Logistics
Mills, Wyoming
Cowboy Drifters
Casper, Wyoming
Four Seasons Anglers
Laramie, Wyoming
Grey Reef Anglers & Wingshooting
Casper, Wyoming
Harrison’s Guest House & Guide Service
Saratoga, Wyoming
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the North Platte River?+
The North Platte River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The best hatches occur during summer months with PMDs and caddis. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
What flies work on the North Platte River in March?+
In March, the North Platte River sees Blue-Winged Olive, Midge activity. Top patterns include BWO Parachute #18-20, Zebra Midge #18-22. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the North Platte River?+
Outguided lists 28 fishing guides who operate on the North Platte River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the North Platte River?+
The North Platte River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations. Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 500–1200 CFS.
What fish species are in the North Platte River?+
The North Platte River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Cutthroat trout may also be present in some sections. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds
USGS Gauges
North Platte near Saratoga
Station #06630000
North Platte at Alcova
Station #06632400