Public Fishing Access Along the North Platte River
When it comes to enjoying Wyoming’s great outdoors, it’s no secret that fishing is a big deal in and around Casper and Natrona County. And whether you’re from Wyoming or coming to fish our blue-ribbon waters from out of state, we want the experience to be as seamless as possible.
One of the best fly-fishing destinations anywhere, the North Platte River has a healthy population of rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout, with avid anglers fishing year-round. The crown jewel of Wyoming and one of the most scenic and accessible waterways in the West, the North Platter offers a perfect mix of recreation, relaxation and Western beauty.
While Wyoming has some regulations and laws that are good to know (for example you can’t anchor your boat if you’re floating through private property), it’s easy to explore the North Platte River with numerous public access points.
To make it as easy as possible to come to Wyoming and enjoy fishing (and floating) on the North Platte, here is a list of public fishing access sites for Natrona County.
Public Fishing Access
- Mills Bridge Public Access Area: This access is located in the city limits of Mills, making it an easy place to access the North Platte River.
- Robertson Road Public Access Area: One of the most developed access points, this is used by floaters and fishermen.
- Speck/Bessemer Bend Public Access Area: This site is ideal for recreation lovers who enjoy fishing and floating.
- Wyoming Fly Casters Memorial-Jessica’s Pond Public Access Area: Great for the whole family, with a nature trail and comfort station.
- Hartnett Public Access Area: About 10 minutes southwest of Casper, this site offers a quieter access point
- Schmitt Public Access Area: Pedestrian access only, about .5 miles of river access.
- Sechrist Public Access Area: A popular public access site, it has a handicap accessible fishing pier.
- By the Way Ranch Public Access Area: This leads to 2.5 miles of pedestrian fishing access.
- North Platte River Drainage Walk-In Fishing Area 12: Offers access to .7 miles of the North Platte River and is known for being a quieter alternative to other access areas.
- Lusby Public Access Area: This is the primary access point for the Grey Reef section of the North Platte River.
- North Platte River Drainage Walk-In Fishing Area 3: Open to foot traffic only, ideal for wade fishing and bank fishing.
- Pathfinder Ranches Public Access Area: Anglers can access the river for 1 mile on both sides of the banks.
- Morad Park: Located in Casper, this access point provides urban access, a boat ramp and is connected to the Platte River Trails. It’s a popular place for fly-fishing, floating and kayaking.
- Paradise Valley: This location is perfect for shore fishing.
Boat Ramps in Natrona County
If you are bringing your own boat or watercraft to Wyoming, there are several places to put in on the river. However, before doing so, please help stop the spread of invasive species by practicing clean, drain and dry. Mandatory inspections are also required and you’ll find check stations along all major roads in Wyoming.
There are several places to launch your boat, including:
- Mills Bridge Public Access Area
- Speck/Bessemer Bend Public Access Area
- Sechrist Public Access Area (also has a handicap accessible fishing pier)
- Lusby Public Access Area
- Morad Park
- Robertson Road
