What You'll Find at Fremont Lake

Fremont Lake is a high-elevation reservoir in the Wind River Range, about 15 miles north of Pinedale, Wyoming. The lake sits at 8,422 feet and covers roughly 9,400 acres, making it the second-largest natural lake in Wyoming. It holds cutthroat trout and lake trout, with cutthroat being the primary draw for most anglers.

The lake's cold, clear water and surrounding granite peaks create a distinct alpine setting. Access is straightforward compared to backcountry alternatives in the range — a paved road reaches the north shore, and boat launches are available. The fishing season runs year-round, though summer and early fall are when most people visit.

Fremont Lake differs from lower-elevation reservoirs in the state because the water stays cold enough to support cutthroat throughout summer, and the scenery pulls in hikers and campers alongside anglers. If you're planning a trip, expect a mix of day-use traffic and overnight camping, especially July through September.

Key Takeaways

  • Cutthroat trout are the main species, with lake trout also present; cutthroat fishing is best from late spring through fall when they feed in shallower water.
  • A paved road reaches the north shore, and boat launches are available at Fremont Lake Marina and the Forest Service day-use area.
  • Wyoming fishing license and a Conservation Stamp are required; cutthroat have a 16-inch minimum length limit with a 6-fish daily bag.
  • Summer weather is short — expect afternoon thunderstorms, and water temperature stays in the 50s even in July and August.
  • Camping is available at Fremont Lake Campground (Forest Service) and private RV facilities; day-use parking fills quickly on weekends.

Cutthroat Trout Seasons and Tactics

Cutthroat fishing at Fremont Lake peaks from late May through September. In early summer (May and June), cutthroat move into shallower water along the north and west shores as the lake warms slightly. Trolling small spoons and spinners in 15 to 30 feet of water produces steady catches. Shore anglers do well casting from rocky points, particularly near the inlet streams.

By mid-summer (July and August), cutthroat move deeper as surface water warms, but they remain accessible to anglers with boats. Troll at 40 to 60 feet, or use a sounder to locate suspended fish. Early morning and evening are most productive. Fly anglers can find cutthroat in the shallows during low-light hours, using small streamers or nymphs near structure.

Fall (September and early October) brings cutthroat back to shallower water as the lake cools. This is often the most reliable time for shore anglers. Lake trout are present year-round but are deeper and less predictable for most anglers; they respond to jigging in 80+ feet of water during winter and deeper summer months.

Access, Launches, and Parking

Fremont Lake Road (Sublette County Road 134) is paved and reaches the north shore. From Pinedale, drive north on Wyoming Highway 191 for about 10 miles, then turn left (west) onto Fremont Lake Road. The drive takes roughly 20 to 25 minutes from town. The road is open year-round, though winter conditions can be icy.

Fremont Lake Marina operates a full-service boat launch on the north shore, with fuel, rentals, and a store. Day-use launch fees apply. The Forest Service day-use area also has a launch ramp and parking; this is the primary free or low-cost option for anglers without a boat. Parking at both locations fills by mid-morning on summer weekends.

Shore access is limited but possible. Walk-in anglers can fish from the day-use area beach and from rocky points along the north shore. The west shore is accessible via Forest Service trails but requires hiking. No motorized access to the south or east shores — those areas are roadless and part of the Bridger Wilderness.

Regulations and Licensing

A current Wyoming fishing license is required for anyone 14 and older. Licenses are sold at sporting goods stores in Pinedale (Westbank Anglers, Pinedale Sporting Goods) and online through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website. A Conservation Stamp must also be purchased with your license.

Cutthroat trout have a 16-inch minimum length limit with a 6-fish daily bag. Lake trout have a 10-inch minimum with a 10-fish daily bag. Possession limits are the same as daily bag limits. Bait fishing is allowed; live baitfish are not permitted, but dead baitfish and prepared baits are legal. Fly fishing and lure fishing are unrestricted.

Check the current Wyoming fishing regulations before you go — rules can change, and the Game and Fish Department website has the most current information. Fremont Lake is in the Pinedale area, which is part of Sublette County fishing district.

Camping and Lodging Near Fremont Lake

Fremont Lake Campground is a Forest Service facility on the north shore with about 40 sites. Sites have picnic tables and fire rings; some have vault toilets nearby. No hookups are available. The campground is open June through September, depending on snow melt. Reservations are not accepted — sites are first-come, first-served. Expect the campground to fill by mid-afternoon on summer weekends.

Private RV parks in Pinedale (about 15 miles south) offer full hookups and year-round access. Pinedale also has motels and vacation rentals if you prefer not to camp. Day-use parking at the Forest Service area is free but limited; arrive early or plan to visit on weekdays if parking is a concern.

The nearest town with services is Pinedale, where you'll find restaurants, grocery stores, gas, and tackle shops. Fremont Lake itself has no lodging, restaurants, or services beyond the marina store.

Weather and Water Conditions

Fremont Lake sits at high elevation, so weather changes quickly. Summer days are warm (60s to low 70s), but mornings and evenings are cool (40s to 50s). Afternoon thunderstorms are common from July through August; they can develop rapidly and create rough water. Bring rain gear and watch the sky.

Water temperature stays cold year-round. Even in mid-summer, surface water is in the low to mid-50s Fahrenheit. A wetsuit is advisable for anyone planning to spend extended time in the water. Winter ice forms by November and typically persists through March, though ice thickness varies. Ice fishing is possible but requires checking current conditions with the marina or Forest Service office.

Wind can pick up in the afternoon, especially in July and August. Mornings are usually calmer. If you're launching a small boat or kayak, plan your fishing for early hours. The lake's exposure to wind makes it less suitable for small craft in afternoon conditions.

Nearby Fishing and Recreation

If Fremont Lake doesn't suit your plans, several alternatives are within an hour's drive. New Fork Lake, about 20 miles south, is smaller and shallower, with easier shore access and similar cutthroat populations. Willow Lake is a backcountry option requiring a hike but offering solitude. Scaler Lake and Halfmoon Lake are also in the Wind River Range and accessible via Forest Service trails.

The Pinedale area is also known for float trips on the Green River and New Fork River. Several outfitters in Pinedale run guided trips for cutthroat and whitefish. Hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering in the Wind River Range are major draws; Fremont Lake is often a base camp for trips into the Bridger Wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Fremont Lake in winter?

Yes, ice fishing is possible from November through March when ice is thick enough. Check with Fremont Lake Marina or the Pinedale Ranger District before heading out — ice thickness varies by year and location on the lake. Cutthroat and lake trout are present under the ice, but fishing is slower than in open-water months.

Do I need a boat to fish Fremont Lake?

No. Shore anglers can fish from the day-use area and rocky points on the north shore. Cutthroat are catchable from shore, especially in early summer and fall. A boat gives you access to deeper water and more shoreline, but it's not required for a productive day.

What's the best time to visit if I want fewer crowds?

Early June and September are less crowded than July and August. Weekdays are quieter than weekends year-round. If you can visit in May or early October, you'll have better parking and campsite availability, though water may be colder and cutthroat less active.

Are there guides available for Fremont Lake?

Yes. Several fly-fishing guides and general fishing guides operate in the Pinedale area and fish Fremont Lake. Westbank Anglers in Pinedale can recommend guides and provide current fishing reports. Guided trips typically run $300 to $500 per day for one or two anglers.

Can I bring my own boat, or do I have to rent?

You can bring your own boat. The Forest Service day-use launch ramp is available for private boats. Fremont Lake Marina also launches private boats for a fee. No special permits are required beyond your fishing license.