What the Flaming Gorge Burbot Bash is and when it happens

The Flaming Gorge Burbot Bash is an annual winter ice fishing tournament held on Flaming Gorge Reservoir, the large impoundment that straddles the Wyoming-Utah border near the town of Manila, Wyoming. The event focuses on burbot, a freshwater fish that becomes active under the ice when most other species slow down. The tournament typically runs in January or February, when ice thickness is reliable enough for safe fishing.

Burbot are bottom feeders that thrive in cold water, making them the natural target for winter anglers on Flaming Gorge. Unlike trout and walleye, which many anglers pursue year-round on the reservoir, burbot are most catchable during the coldest months. The Bash draws both experienced ice anglers and people new to winter fishing, with categories and prizes that reward different skill levels and catch sizes.

The tournament is organized by local fishing groups and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department in partnership with Utah authorities, since Flaming Gorge spans both states. Entry fees are modest, and the event emphasizes community participation over high-stakes competition. Many anglers use the Bash as a reason to learn ice fishing techniques or to spend a winter day on the water with friends and family.

Key Takeaways

  • The Flaming Gorge Burbot Bash is a winter ice fishing tournament held in January or February on Flaming Gorge Reservoir near Manila, Wyoming.
  • Burbot are the target species because they feed actively under ice when other fish are dormant, making them reliable winter catches.
  • The tournament welcomes anglers of all experience levels and offers categories for different catch sizes and fishing methods.
  • You will need a valid Wyoming fishing license and an ice auger, tip-ups or jigging rod, and appropriate cold-weather gear to participate.
  • The event is organized by local fishing groups and state game and fish departments, with entry fees that support conservation and community fishing programs.

Where to fish and how to access Flaming Gorge in winter

Flaming Gorge Reservoir covers about 42 miles of water along the Utah-Wyoming border, with several access points suitable for winter fishing. The main Wyoming-side launch areas include Lucerne Valley Marina (near Manila), Red Canyon Overlook, and Sheep Creek Bay. In winter, some boat ramps close due to ice or low water levels, so check current conditions with the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area office before you go.

Most Burbot Bash participants fish from the ice near the shoreline or in shallow bays where burbot congregate. Lucerne Valley is the most popular staging area because it has parking, restrooms, and a marina building that provides shelter. The drive from Manila is about 45 minutes; from Rock Springs, Wyoming, it is roughly two hours. Roads to the reservoir are plowed in winter, but snow and ice can make driving slow, so plan extra time and bring chains or all-terrain tires.

Before heading out, confirm that ice thickness is safe for foot traffic and fishing. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department and local fishing reports provide ice condition updates. Generally, 4 inches of clear ice is the minimum for walking; 6 to 8 inches is safer for groups. Never assume ice is safe just because other people are on it — conditions vary by location and depth.

What you need to bring and how to prepare your gear

Ice fishing for burbot requires different gear than open-water fishing. You will need an ice auger to cut holes through the ice — hand augers work for most situations, but power augers speed up the process if you plan to fish multiple holes. Bring a tip-up (a device that signals when a fish bites) or a jigging rod with a sensitive tip and a small reel. Burbot respond to vertical jigging with spoons or small jigs, so have several in your tackle box in sizes from 1/8 ounce to 1/2 ounce.

Live bait is effective for burbot — small shiners, minnows, or even cut fish work well under a tip-up. If you use jigging, dead bait or artificial lures alone will catch fish, but the combination of jigging motion plus bait often produces better results. Bring extra line, because burbot have sharp teeth and will fray or break line on rocks and debris.

Dress in layers: a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer (fleece or wool), and a waterproof outer shell. Bring insulated boots rated for extreme cold, a warm hat, gloves or mittens, and hand warmers. A small shelter or windbreak makes a huge difference in comfort during a long day on the ice. Many anglers use portable ice fishing shelters, which cost between $100 and $500 depending on size and features. Bring a thermos of hot water or coffee, snacks, and a headlamp if you plan to fish into dusk.

Burbot behavior and how to fish for them effectively

Burbot are nocturnal bottom feeders that hunt most actively in the hour or two after sunset and before sunrise. During the day, they rest on the lake bottom in deeper water, typically 40 to 80 feet deep, though they will move into shallower areas (15 to 30 feet) to feed at night. This means your best fishing window is often early morning or late afternoon into evening, not midday.

When jigging, use a slow, deliberate motion — drop your spoon to the bottom, then raise it 1 to 2 feet and let it fall again, pausing between lifts. Burbot are not aggressive strikers; they often mouth the bait before committing to a full bite. If you feel weight or resistance, set the hook firmly but not violently. Tip-ups work well because they allow you to cover more water and let the fish take the bait at its own pace.

Burbot are less selective about bait than trout, which makes them forgiving for newer anglers. They will eat dead bait, live bait, and artificial lures. The key is fishing the right depth and being patient — burbot fishing rewards time on the ice more than constant movement. Many successful anglers set multiple tip-ups and jig occasionally while waiting, combining both methods to increase their chances.

Tournament rules and how to enter the Burbot Bash

The Flaming Gorge Burbot Bash has specific rules to ensure fair competition and fish safety. All participants must have a valid Wyoming fishing license (or a Utah license if fishing from the Utah side, though most of the tournament takes place in Wyoming waters). Fish are typically measured by length, with separate categories for largest fish and heaviest total catch. Some years the tournament includes youth divisions or family team categories.

Entry usually happens on the morning of the tournament at a designated check-in location, often at Lucerne Valley Marina or a nearby facility. Entry fees range from $20 to $50 per angler, depending on the year and the organization running the event. Prizes are awarded for top finishers in each category, and entry fees support local conservation efforts and fishing access programs.

Fish must be kept alive or on ice until weigh-in, and all fish are typically released after measurement and weighing. The tournament organizers will provide exact rules, weigh-in times, and check-in procedures when you register. Contact the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area office or local fishing shops in Manila for current tournament dates and registration details.

Cooking and eating your burbot catch

Burbot is an underrated eating fish with mild, delicate white flesh similar to cod or haddock. The meat is lean and flakes easily when cooked, making it versatile for many preparations. Unlike some freshwater fish, burbot has minimal "fishy" flavor, which appeals to people who are cautious about eating fish from lakes.

The simplest preparation is to fillet the fish, dredge it lightly in flour seasoned with salt and pepper, and pan-fry it in butter until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily — about 3 to 4 minutes per side for a medium fillet. Burbot also works well baked with lemon and herbs, poached in broth, or breaded and fried. The liver is considered a delicacy by some anglers and can be sautéed separately as a rich side dish.

Because burbot are bottom feeders, rinse the fillets well and check for any muddy flavor before cooking. If the fish tastes earthy, soaking the fillets in cold milk for 30 minutes before cooking will mellow that flavor. Most anglers who try burbot prepared simply — fried or baked with butter and lemon — become enthusiastic about keeping their catch and cooking it at home.

Planning your trip and what to know about winter safety

The Flaming Gorge area is remote, so plan your trip carefully. The nearest towns with gas, food, and lodging are Manila, Wyoming (about 45 minutes away) and Dutch John, Utah (closer but smaller). Stock up on fuel and supplies before you head to the reservoir. Cell service is spotty around Flaming Gorge, so tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.

Winter weather on the high desert can change rapidly. Temperatures often drop below zero at night, and wind can make the cold feel much more severe. Check the weather forecast the night before and the morning of your trip. Bring extra layers, a first aid kit, and a way to start a fire or signal for help if something goes wrong. Never fish alone on the ice if possible — fishing with a partner or group is safer and more enjoyable.

If you fall through the ice, get out immediately by pulling yourself onto solid ice and rolling away from the hole. Hypothermia can set in within minutes in water below 40 degrees. Wear a personal flotation device or ice rescue suit if you are fishing in areas where the ice is thin or uncertain. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department offers ice safety information and classes; check their website for resources before the season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special license to fish in the Burbot Bash tournament?

You need a valid Wyoming fishing license to participate. A one-day license is available if you do not have an annual license. The tournament organizers will ask to see your license at check-in, so bring it with you.

What if the ice is not thick enough when the tournament is scheduled?

The tournament organizers monitor ice conditions and will postpone or cancel the event if ice thickness is unsafe. They will announce changes through local fishing shops, the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area office, and social media. Check for updates the week before the scheduled date.

Can I keep the burbot I catch, or do they all have to be released?

Most years, fish are released after weigh-in, but some tournaments allow anglers to keep their catch. Ask the tournament organizers when you register. Flaming Gorge has generous burbot bag limits, so keeping fish for eating is usually permitted outside the tournament as well.

Is ice fishing dangerous, and what should I do if I get cold?

Ice fishing is safe when you follow basic precautions: check ice thickness, fish with others, wear appropriate clothing, and tell someone where you are going. If you start to feel very cold, shivering uncontrollably, or confused, get to shelter and warm up immediately. These are signs of hypothermia, which is serious. Bring a thermos of hot liquid and take breaks in a shelter or vehicle to stay warm.

Where can I find out the exact dates for this year's Burbot Bash?

Contact the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area office, local fishing shops in Manila, or the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website for current tournament dates and registration information. The event is usually held in late January or early February, but dates vary by year.