What the Walleye Stampede is and when it happens

The Glendo Reservoir Walleye Stampede is an annual fishing tournament held on Glendo Reservoir near Glendo, Wyoming, typically in late spring or early summer. The event draws walleye anglers from across the region who compete for prizes while fishing one of Wyoming's most productive walleye waters. The tournament is organized by local fishing clubs and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and it combines competitive fishing with a community gathering that includes weigh-ins, food, and local participation.

The exact dates shift from year to year, so you should contact the Wyoming Game and Fish Department or check their website for the current year's schedule before planning your trip. The tournament usually runs for one or two days, with anglers fishing designated hours and returning to a central weigh-in location. Entry fees vary depending on the year and whether you fish as an individual or as part of a team.

Key Takeaways

  • The Walleye Stampede is held annually on Glendo Reservoir and draws competitive and recreational anglers to fish for walleye during a set tournament window.
  • You can fish as an individual or join a team, and entry fees cover your participation and typically include access to the weigh-in event and prizes.
  • Walleye on Glendo respond well to live bait (shiners and minnows), jigs tipped with soft plastics, and crankbaits fished in deeper water during the day.
  • The reservoir sits at elevation and weather can change quickly, so bring layers, sunscreen, and check the forecast before launching.
  • Glendo State Park provides boat ramps, camping, and facilities, making it a full-day or weekend destination rather than a quick outing.

How to enter and what the tournament rules cover

Entry to the Walleye Stampede is open to anglers of all skill levels, and you register either before the event or on the morning of the tournament at the designated check-in location near the boat ramp. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department or the organizing club will provide a rules packet that covers the fishing window (usually a set number of hours), which species count toward your catch, size and bag limits, and how fish are weighed and ranked. Most tournaments require you to keep fish alive in a livewell until weigh-in, so a functioning aeration system on your boat is essential.

Team tournaments typically allow two anglers per boat, and both names must be registered before fishing begins. Individual tournaments may have separate divisions or weight classes. Prize money or merchandise is usually awarded to the top finishers in each category, and many events also have a "big fish" prize for the largest walleye caught. Read the rules carefully before you arrive, because violations can result in disqualification.

Where Glendo Reservoir is and how to get there

Glendo Reservoir lies in Platte County in southeastern Wyoming, about 30 miles north of the town of Wheatland and roughly 90 miles north of Cheyenne. The reservoir is a 13,000-acre impoundment on the North Platte River, surrounded by high plains and accessible via Wyoming Highway 319. The main boat ramp and day-use area are at Glendo State Park, which sits on the eastern shore and is the primary launch point for tournament fishing.

From Cheyenne, take I-25 north toward Wheatland, then follow Highway 34 east and Highway 319 north to reach the reservoir. The drive takes roughly two hours. Glendo State Park has multiple boat ramps, a marina with fuel and supplies, camping facilities, and a day-use area with parking and restrooms. If you plan to fish the full tournament day, arriving the evening before allows you to scout the water, set up camp, and start fresh in the morning.

Walleye behavior and tactics on Glendo

Walleye on Glendo are most active during low-light periods — early morning, late evening, and overcast days — but they can be caught throughout the day if you fish the right depth and structure. In spring and early summer, walleye move to deeper water as the sun climbs, typically holding around 15 to 30 feet near drop-offs, submerged rock piles, and channel ledges. Live bait is highly effective: shiners and small minnows fished on a simple slip-sinker rig or under a bobber will catch walleye throughout the day.

Jigs tipped with soft plastics (grubs, shads, or tubes in white, chartreuse, or natural colors) are tournament favorites because they allow you to cover water quickly and feel the bottom structure. Cast toward deeper water and work the jig with a slow, steady retrieve or a lift-and-drop motion. Crankbaits that dive to 12 to 20 feet can also be productive, especially along the main channel and near the dam. Pay attention to water temperature and clarity — after heavy rain, the reservoir can become murky, which actually favors walleye fishing because they rely more on their lateral line sense.

Boat and equipment requirements

You need a boat capable of safely handling the reservoir's conditions and equipped with a functioning livewell if you plan to compete. Most anglers use 16 to 20-foot center-console or open boats with 40 to 90-horsepower outboards, though smaller boats work fine if they have adequate aeration. A depth finder or fish finder is not required but is extremely useful for locating structure and walleye, especially in a tournament setting where time is limited.

Essential gear includes a rod and reel suited to walleye (medium-light to medium action, 6 to 7 feet long), tackle for the methods you plan to use (jigs, live bait rigs, crankbaits), a net for landing fish, and a cooler or livewell to keep your catch fresh. Bring extra line, hooks, and lures because you may lose tackle on the bottom or to snags. A life jacket is required by law for each person on board, and a throwable flotation device is recommended. Check that your boat registration and fishing licenses are current before the tournament.

Lodging and camping near Glendo

Glendo State Park offers camping with full hookups and without, as well as day-use parking and picnic areas. Campsites fill quickly during the tournament, so reserve in advance through the Wyoming State Parks system if you plan to stay overnight. The park has restrooms, showers, and a dump station. If you prefer not to camp, the town of Wheatland (about 30 miles south) has motels and restaurants, though you will have a longer drive to and from the water each day.

Many anglers arrive the day before the tournament to fish practice water, scout structure, and acclimate to the reservoir. This also gives you time to fuel up at the marina, check your equipment, and get a good night's sleep before an early start. If you are traveling from out of state, plan for a full weekend trip rather than a day outing, because the drive and the fishing day itself are both substantial.

What to bring and how to prepare

Pack layers of clothing because Glendo sits at elevation (around 4,600 feet) and weather can shift rapidly from warm to cold, especially in spring. Bring a rain jacket, a warm fleece or jacket for early morning and evening, and a hat and sunglasses for daytime fishing. Sunscreen is essential — the sun reflects off the water and intensifies the UV exposure. Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and fueled throughout a long fishing day.

Check the weather forecast the week before and again the morning of the tournament. Wind can make the reservoir choppy and unsafe for small boats, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in late spring and early summer. If conditions look unsafe, do not launch — the tournament organizers may postpone or cancel if conditions are dangerous. Bring a first aid kit, a flashlight or headlamp, and a fully charged phone in case of emergency. If you are towing a boat, make sure your vehicle is in good condition and your trailer lights and brakes are working.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Wyoming fishing license to fish the Walleye Stampede?

Yes, all anglers must have a valid Wyoming fishing license, even if they are competing in a tournament. You can purchase a license online through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website, at sporting goods stores, or at the Glendo State Park office. A one-day license is available if you do not want a full-season license.

What is the walleye size and bag limit on Glendo Reservoir?

Wyoming's walleye regulations vary by water body and can change year to year. On Glendo, the limit is typically 10 walleye per day with no minimum size, but you should verify the current regulations on the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website or in the fishing regulations booklet before the tournament. Tournament rules may be more restrictive than state law.

Can I fish the tournament if I have never competed before?

Yes, the Walleye Stampede welcomes anglers of all experience levels. Many tournaments have divisions for beginners or offer team options so you can fish with someone more experienced. Contact the tournament organizers before you register if you have questions about which division suits you best.

What happens if the weather is bad on tournament day?

The tournament organizers monitor weather conditions and may postpone or cancel if conditions are unsafe. If the event is postponed, it is usually rescheduled for the following day or weekend. Check with the organizers the morning of the tournament or the day before if severe weather is forecast.

Is there a marina at Glendo where I can rent a boat or buy fuel?

Yes, Glendo State Park has a marina that sells fuel, ice, and basic supplies. Boat rentals may be available through the marina or private operators, but availability varies. Contact the park office or the Wyoming Game and Fish Department ahead of time if you need to rent a boat for the tournament.