The Boysen Reservoir Ice Fishing Derby happens each winter on the frozen surface of Wyoming's largest reservoir

The Boysen Reservoir Ice Fishing Derby is an annual winter event held on Boysen Reservoir near Shoshoni, Wyoming. The derby typically runs for a set period in January or February — the exact dates shift year to year, so you'll need to check with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department for the current year's schedule. The event is open to the public, and you fish from the ice for walleye, perch, and other species that live in the reservoir.

The derby is not a tournament you enter through a formal registration process. Instead, you show up during the derby period, fish from the ice, and if you catch a fish that meets the weight requirements for a prize category, you can weigh it in at a designated location on the reservoir. Prize money or merchandise goes to the heaviest fish in each species category. The event draws both locals and visitors who want to fish Boysen in winter and have a chance at winning something for their catch.

Key Takeaways

  • The Boysen Reservoir Ice Fishing Derby runs for a limited period each winter, usually in January or February, and you must check the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website for exact dates before you go.
  • You do not need to pre-register; you fish during the derby period and bring your catch to an official weigh-in station if you want to compete for prizes.
  • The reservoir freezes solid enough for ice fishing most winters, but ice thickness varies, so always check current conditions and bring proper safety equipment.
  • You must have a valid Wyoming fishing license and follow all state fishing regulations, including species-specific bag limits and size restrictions.
  • Walleye and perch are the primary target species, though the exact prize categories may change from year to year.

When the Derby Runs and How to Find Current Dates

The derby dates are not fixed to the same calendar days each year because ice thickness and safety conditions vary. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department sets the dates based on ice conditions and typically announces them in late fall or early winter. You can find the current year's derby dates on the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website, or by calling their regional office in Thermopolis, which oversees Boysen Reservoir.

The derby usually lasts two to three weeks, giving you a window to fish rather than a single day. This matters because weather, work schedules, and ice conditions all affect when you can actually get out on the ice. Check the announcement for the exact start and end dates, as fishing after the derby period ends means you won't be able to weigh in your catch for prizes.

What Fish Count and How Weigh-Ins Work

Walleye and perch are the primary species with prize categories, though the exact list can shift. The heaviest fish in each category wins. You keep your fish on ice in a cooler or fish bag throughout the day, then bring it to the official weigh-in station before the derby ends. The weigh-in location is typically set up at a specific access point on the reservoir — the announcement will tell you where.

Bring your fish whole and unaltered. The weigh station will record the weight, the species, and your name. If your fish is the heaviest in its category when the derby closes, you'll be notified about your prize. Prize amounts or merchandise vary by year and depend on how many people participate and how the derby is funded.

Ice Safety and What to Bring

Boysen Reservoir freezes most winters, but ice thickness is never may provide and varies across the reservoir. Before you head out, check the current ice thickness reports from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department or local fishing reports. Safe ice for walking is generally considered to be at least 4 inches thick; for vehicles, 8 to 12 inches depending on the vehicle weight. Never assume the ice is safe just because other people are on it.

Bring a life jacket or personal flotation device, an ice auger or chisel to test ice thickness as you walk, a rope or throw line, and a charged cell phone. Wear layers and waterproof boots. Tell someone on shore where you're fishing and when you expect to return. If you fall through, a PFD and a rope give you the best chance of getting out. The reservoir is large and remote, so self-rescue is often your only option in the first moments.

Fishing License and Regulations You Must Follow

You must have a valid Wyoming fishing license to fish Boysen Reservoir, whether you're competing in the derby or not. You can buy a license online through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website, at sporting goods stores, or at some gas stations and convenience stores in the area. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you're only fishing for the derby.

Wyoming has specific bag limits and size restrictions for walleye, perch, and other species. These rules apply during the derby just as they do the rest of the year. Check the current regulations before you fish — they can change, and violating them can result in a fine even if you're participating in the derby. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department publishes a fishing guide each year with all the rules by species and water body.

Where to Fish on Boysen and Access Points

Boysen Reservoir has several public access points, and not all of them are equally good for ice fishing. The main access areas include the dam area, the marina area, and several boat launch sites. In winter, some facilities close or have limited services, so call ahead to confirm which access points are open during the derby period. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department can tell you which areas are most productive for walleye and perch in winter.

The reservoir is large — about 22 miles long — so where you fish matters. Deeper water near the dam and channel areas often holds walleye in winter. Shallower bays and flats can hold perch. If you're new to Boysen, talk to local anglers at the weigh-in station or at a nearby tackle shop in Shoshoni. They can point you toward productive spots and tell you what's been working.

Gear and Techniques for Winter Walleye and Perch

Ice fishing for walleye and perch is different from open-water fishing. You'll need an ice auger (hand-crank or powered), a short ice fishing rod, a bucket or shelter to sit on, and small jigs tipped with live bait or soft plastics. Walleye often bite better in low light, so early morning and late afternoon can be productive. Perch are less picky and bite throughout the day, but they school, so if you catch one, try to stay in that spot.

Jigging is the most common technique — drop your jig to the bottom, then work it up and down with small movements. Walleye respond to a slower, more deliberate jig; perch often hit faster presentations. Bring extra jigs, hooks, and line because ice fishing can be hard on gear. A hand auger works fine if you're only drilling a few holes, but a powered auger saves time and effort if you plan to move around and try multiple spots.

Lodging and Services Near Boysen

Shoshoni, Wyoming is the closest town to Boysen Reservoir, about 15 miles away. It has a few motels, a gas station, and a small grocery store. Thermopolis, about 30 miles away, has more lodging options and restaurants. If you're driving from out of state, plan for a long drive — Boysen is in central Wyoming, several hours from major cities. Camping is available at some reservoir facilities in summer, but winter camping options are limited, so book lodging ahead if you're staying overnight.

There are no restaurants or services directly on the reservoir, so bring food, water, and fuel for your vehicle. A tackle shop in Shoshoni can sell you bait and last-minute gear if you need it. Gas up in town before heading to the reservoir — there are no fuel pumps at the access points.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to register before the derby starts?

No. You fish during the derby period and bring your catch to the weigh-in station if you want to compete for prizes. There is no pre-registration or entry fee. Show up with a valid fishing license and fish according to state regulations.

What if the ice is not thick enough when the derby is supposed to start?

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department will delay the start or cancel the derby if ice conditions are unsafe. Check their website or call the regional office before you drive out. They announce changes as soon as they know conditions won't support fishing.

Can I fish for other species during the derby, or only the prize categories?

You can fish for any species that is legal in Boysen during the derby period. Only the designated prize categories count toward winning, but you can keep any fish that meets the bag limit and size requirements under Wyoming law.

What happens if I catch a prize fish but don't make it to the weigh-in before the derby ends?

Your fish won't count toward prizes if it's not weighed in before the official end date and time. Mark the end date on your calendar and plan to weigh in with enough time to spare. The weigh-in station will have posted hours — don't wait until the last day.

Is there a minimum size for fish to win a prize?

The derby announcement will specify any minimum sizes for prize categories. These may be different from the state's year-round size limits. Read the derby rules carefully before you fish so you know what counts.