The Seminoe Reservoir Trout Derby runs each summer and draws anglers from across Wyoming to compete for prizes on one of the state's most productive trout waters

The Seminoe Reservoir Trout Derby is an annual summer fishing tournament held on Seminoe Reservoir, a large impoundment in Carbon County that sits about 40 miles south of Rawlins. The derby typically takes place in late July or early August, though the exact dates shift year to year — you'll find the current year's schedule through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department or local outfitters near the reservoir.

The event is open to anglers of all ages and skill levels. You fish from a boat or from shore, weigh your catch at an official weigh station, and compete for cash prizes and merchandise. The reservoir itself holds cutthroat trout, lake trout, and walleye, though the derby focuses on trout. Most anglers target cutthroat in the 12- to 18-inch range, which are abundant and fight hard enough to make the day worthwhile.

What makes Seminoe different from many other Wyoming reservoirs is its size and depth — it covers roughly 22,000 acres and reaches depths over 300 feet in places. That means fish are scattered, water temperature varies by depth, and success often depends on understanding where trout hold at different times of day and season.

Key Takeaways

  • The derby runs for one day in late July or early August each year; check the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website for the exact date before you plan your trip.
  • You need a valid Wyoming fishing license and a Seminoe Reservoir permit to fish the event, and both are available online or at local sporting goods stores.
  • Cutthroat trout are the primary target, and fish in the 12- to 18-inch range are most common; bring a cooler and ice if you plan to keep your catch.
  • The reservoir is large and deep, so successful anglers often fish structure — drop-offs, rocky points, and submerged ridges — rather than random open water.
  • Weigh-in typically closes at mid-afternoon, so plan your fishing day to have time to return to the official weigh station before the deadline.

What You Need Before You Fish

A Wyoming fishing license is required for anyone 14 and older. You can purchase a one-day license online through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website or at any authorized vendor — sporting goods stores, gas stations, and tackle shops near Rawlins all carry them. The cost varies depending on whether you're a resident or non-resident, but a one-day non-resident license is typically under $15.

In addition to the license, Seminoe Reservoir requires a reservoir permit. This is a separate document that covers your access to the water and is also available through the Game and Fish Department or at local vendors. Some outfitters and marinas near the reservoir sell both licenses and permits in one transaction, which can save time if you're arriving the morning of the derby.

Bring your license and permit with you on the water — Game and Fish officers patrol during the derby and will check documentation. If you're fishing from a boat, make sure your vessel is registered with Wyoming and that you have a current boating safety certificate if required by state law.

How the Derby Works on the Day

The derby runs from sunrise to a set weigh-in deadline — usually mid-afternoon, though you should confirm the exact time when you register or check in. You can fish from a boat, from shore, or from a dock if you have access to one. Most anglers use boats because the reservoir is large and fish are often found in deeper water or away from the shoreline.

You keep any trout you catch and want to weigh. The official weigh station is typically located at one of the main access points — Seminoe Marina or a designated location announced before the event. Bring a cooler with ice to keep your fish fresh, and handle them carefully so they remain in good condition for weighing.

Prizes are usually awarded for the heaviest single fish and for the heaviest total catch in various categories (often divided by age group or gender). The exact prize structure changes year to year, so ask at check-in or look for posted rules when you arrive. Entry fees, if charged, are typically modest and go toward maintaining the event and supporting local fishing programs.

Where Fish Hold at Seminoe

Seminoe Reservoir is deep and large, which means trout don't spread evenly across the water. They concentrate around structure — places where the lake bottom changes shape or where rocks and debris create shelter. Early in the morning, cutthroat often move into shallower water to feed, so rocky shorelines and points that drop off into deeper water are productive spots.

As the day warms, fish retreat to deeper water and cooler temperatures. If you have a fish finder, look for drop-offs that fall from 20 feet to 40 feet or deeper — these transitions often hold feeding fish. Submerged ridges and humps, where the bottom rises and then drops again, concentrate trout because baitfish gather there too.

The north and south arms of the reservoir have different characteristics. The north arm tends to be shallower and warms faster, while the south arm stays cooler longer. In mid-summer, the south arm often produces better fishing in the afternoon because the water temperature remains more stable.

Tackle and Bait That Work

Cutthroat trout at Seminoe respond to both live bait and artificial lures. Live bait — small shiners, minnows, or crawfish — is effective and straightforward. Fish it under a bobber in shallow water or on the bottom in deeper areas. Use a simple rig: a small hook, split shot to control depth, and enough line to reach where fish are holding.

For artificial lures, small spinners (size 1 or 2) in silver or gold work well, as do small crankbaits that mimic baitfish. Spoons in the half-ounce to one-ounce range cast far and sink quickly, which is useful when you're fishing deep structure. Jigging — dropping a small jig tipped with a minnow or soft plastic — is also productive if you're patient and willing to work the bottom.

Fly fishing is less common at Seminoe during the derby because most fish are deep, but it can work in early morning or late afternoon when trout move into shallower water. A 5- or 6-weight rod with a sinking line and small streamers (size 8 to 12) will take fish if you're willing to cast and strip rather than fish bait.

Preparing Your Catch for the Weigh Station

Keep your fish on ice as soon as you catch them. A cooler with ice or ice packs will preserve the fish and keep the meat in good condition if you plan to eat it after the derby. Don't overcrowd the cooler — give each fish space so ice can circulate around it.

When you bring your fish to the weigh station, they'll be weighed whole and in the condition you caught them. The official scale will record the weight, and you'll receive a receipt or tag. If you're competing for prizes, make sure your name and any relevant information (age group, residency status) are recorded correctly at check-in.

After weighing, you can take your fish home to clean and cook, or some anglers release them if they're not interested in keeping the catch. Check the current regulations — Seminoe has specific rules about which fish can be kept and in what numbers, and these may differ from general Wyoming regulations.

Getting to Seminoe and Where to Stay

Seminoe Reservoir is accessed from Wyoming Highway 287, about 40 miles south of Rawlins. The main public access points are Seminoe Marina (on the north shore) and Kortes Dam (on the south shore). Both have boat ramps, parking, and basic facilities. The drive from Rawlins takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour depending on which access point you use.

Lodging options near the reservoir are limited. Rawlins, about 40 miles north, has motels, restaurants, and gas stations. Some anglers camp at the reservoir itself — there are a few primitive camping areas near the access points, though facilities are minimal. If you're coming from out of state, plan to arrive the day before the derby so you can scout the water and get a good night's sleep.

Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. The high desert around Seminoe offers little shade, and the sun reflects off the water intensely. Weather can change quickly — afternoon winds are common in summer, so check the forecast and be prepared for rough water if you're in a boat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish the Seminoe Trout Derby?

No. You can fish from shore at the access points or from docks if available, though most successful anglers use boats because fish are often in deeper water away from the shoreline. Shore fishing is possible and can produce results, especially early in the morning or near rocky points.

What's the best time of day to fish Seminoe during the derby?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) is usually most productive because trout are active and feeding in shallower water. As the day warms, fishing slows, though the south arm of the reservoir can remain productive longer because it stays cooler. Plan to fish hard in the morning and adjust your location or depth as the day progresses.

Can I keep the fish I catch at the derby?

Yes. After your fish are weighed, you can take them home to clean and cook. Seminoe has daily catch limits and size restrictions that apply to the derby — check the current Wyoming fishing regulations before you fish to make sure you understand what you can keep.

What if I've never fished Seminoe before?

Consider hiring a guide for a day or two before the derby to learn the water and where fish hold. Local outfitters near Rawlins offer guide services and can teach you the reservoir's structure and seasonal patterns. Even a few hours with someone who knows the water will improve your chances significantly.

Is there a registration fee for the derby?

Entry fees vary year to year and may be waived or minimal. Check with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department or the event organizers when you confirm the derby date — they'll have current information about fees, prize structure, and any registration requirements.