North Platte River
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The North Platte River features blue-ribbon trout fishing of national renown, making it the primary draw for those fishing near Saratoga. Look to catch brown and rainbow trout in the portions of the North Platte River immediately surrounding Saratoga. North of Saratoga, between Kortes and Pathfinder Reservoirs, the Miracle Mile portion of the river also yields cutthroat trout and walleye. Veterans Island Park provides convenient North Platte fishing access right in Saratoga.
Saratoga Lake
Saratoga Lake, situated just north of Saratoga, offers year-round fishing for rainbow trout. Managed by the town of Saratoga, Saratoga Lake hosts an annual Ice Fishing Derby every January. This family friendly event includes both a children's ice fishing contest and a competition for adults that offers thousands of dollars in prize money. You can camp at the Saratoga Lake Campground for $7 to $10 per site, per night (2010).
Brush Creek
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To access Brush Creek, drive out of Saratoga south and then east on Wyoming 130 for 20 miles. Alternately, take Saratoga Road (Ryan Park Road) southeast out of town for the same distance. This trout stream contains brown, rainbow and brook trout. Just to the east on Forest Road 100, you'll find Lincoln Park Campground ($10 per site, per night in 2010) located on the banks of Brush Creek in the Medicine Bow National Forest.
Pass Creek
Northeast of Saratoga, Pass Creek has brown and brook trout fishing opportunities. You can access Pass Creek by driving 14 miles north from Saratoga on Wyoming 130, and then driving east for 7 miles on Pass Creek Road (Road 404). Turn north on Stock Drive Way (Road 215) for additional fishing access points along Pass Creek, or continue north on Wyoming 130 to access the creek closer to Interstate 80.
Fishing Shops
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Saratoga has two fishing shops that provide up-to-date local information, trip-planning assistance, guided trips and fishing supplies. Both shops sit conveniently on the banks of the North Platte River in town. Hack's Tackle features a complete tackle and fly shop, plus boat rentals, fishing guides and scenic float services. Stoney Creek Outfitters offers a comprehensive fly shop, plus fishing guides and rental cabins ($85 to $125 per night in 2010).
Article Written By Alli Rainey
A professional writer since 1997, Harvard graduate ('96) Alli Rainey has written several books, including "Wyoming: An Explorer's Guide" (spring 2010). Her articles have appeared in "Climbing Magazine," "Rock & Ice," and "Men's Fitness," among many others. She is also the rock climbing feature writer for an online magazine.
