Floating the Shoshone
Written & Photos By: Laurel Thompson
During the peak of summer, Wyoming’s pristine rivers attract locals and visitors seeking outdoor adventure and an escape from the seasonal heat. Whether you are a thrill seeker chasing a whitewater rafting experience or an avid angler who prefers a more scenic, mellow float, there’s a Wyoming river for you!
Headwaters
Wyoming is home to approximately 108,767 miles of world-class waters stemming from the Missouri-Mississippi River, Green-Colorado River, Snake-Columbia River and Great Salt Lake watersheds (Rivers.Gov). From the Bighorn River to the north, the Green River to the south, the North Platte River to the east, and the Snake River to the west, Wyoming offers endless opportunities to raft, kayak, canoe, float, and fish throughout our beautiful state!
Absarokas to the Bighorns
As residents and enthusiasts of the Bighorn Basin – and fishing, of course – Sam and I often enjoy scenic floats on the Bighorn and Shoshone Rivers in northwest Wyoming.
The Shoshone River is 100 miles long beginning in the Absaroka range and runs through Shoshone National Forest and the cities of Cody, Powell, Bryon, and Lovell, ending when it flows into the Big Horn River near Bighorn Lake and Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area on the north-east side of the Bighorn Basin.
Local Favorite
During the month of July, we enjoyed one of our first floats of the season with a large group of friends along a portion of the Shoshone. Referred to by locals as the North Fork, this 52 mile stretch of the Shoshone River sits between the east gate entrance to Yellowstone National Park and Cody, Wyoming.
Take it from Teddy
Not only does this scenic stretch of river offer anglers topnotch trout fishing, winding through Shoshone National Forest, America’s first National Forest, it is a spectacular area for scenic drives and wildflower and wildlife viewing. Although late fall, winter and early spring are the best times to observe wildlife along the North Fork, you may be lucky enough to spot some critters grabbing a drink on a hot summer day!
Given its majesty, it is no surprise Teddy Roosevelt called it the most scenic landscape in America.
Be Aware
Hiring an experienced guide who knows all the Wyoming fishing regulations and can assist in making your fishing trip the best experience possible is highly recommended for beginners and first timers.
For all others planning to fish or use a personal watercraft in Wyoming, be sure to check out the Wyoming Game & Fish Department’s website for fishing regulations, registrations, river closures and more.
We would also like to note, this is grizzly country. Safety first; Observe grizzlies from a distance and do not attempt to follow a grizzly or approach. Publications on how to behave responsibly in grizzly country are available from the Park Service, Forest Service, and Wyoming Game & Fish Department.
Hit the North Fork
Before heading west towards Buffalo Bill State Park, you’ll want to stop downtown Cody and stock up on fishing gear for the day’s float! We recommend Wyoming Trout Guides and North Fork Anglers for all your fly fishing needs or Rocky Mountain Sports if you are fishing with tackle.
Whether you are a beginner or expert angler, they will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the area and can direct you on where and what to fish with for a successful day on the river!
Take in the Views
On the way to your launch site, be sure to take in the stunning views of Buffalo Bill Reservoir, Buffalo Bill State Park, and the surrounding rocky canyons and river views.
Once you’ve made it to your destination, rig up your pole and get ready for a day filled with sunshine, crisp water, and good company!
Catch of the Day
During our float, we caught a variety of fish to include Yellowstone cutthroat, brown and rainbow trout, and a few mountain whitefish. It is also common to catch the occasional rock or fallen tree limb, but don’t be discouraged, as it happens to the best of us!
As you float down the winding curves of the river, be sure to take in all the experience has to offer while searching for the perfect location to place your fly! Our prized fish of the day were often found in deep pools and along the willow lined banks.
Get Outside
If you’re itching for a day out on the river rafting and fishing, be sure to add the Shoshone River to your list of Wyoming must-dos! And, don’t forget to share your WYld adventures with us, by tagging us at @LiveWYldMag and using the hashtag #LiveWYld.
Happy floating!
