Tongue River - North
WY
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River
About Tongue River - North
The North Tongue River offers a quintessential high-country freestone experience, winding through the rugged beauty of Wyoming's Bighorn Mountains. As a significant tributary to the larger Tongue River, this picturesque stretch carves its way with crystal-clear, swift waters over a foundation of rocks and gravel. While not an extensive river, its quality trout fishery and stunning mountain scenery make it a prime destination for anglers seeking an authentic mountain stream adventure. The North Tongue generally follows State Highway 14, providing convenient and accessible entry points into this wild landscape. You'll find a healthy population of brown, rainbow, and brook trout here, with many fish ranging from a respectable 10 to 20 inches. The clarity of the water makes spotting rising trout a true pleasure, and the abundant insect life ensures excellent opportunities for dry fly fishing. Keep an eye out for Caddis and Stoneflies, which frequently bring trout to the surface. When they aren't actively feeding on top, nymphing with attractors, scuds, and smaller nymphs can be highly effective. Given the river's narrower channels and swift currents, precision casting is paramount, so be prepared for technical fishing. Public access points are well-marked along Highway 14, often featuring deeper pools and willow-lined banks that hold good numbers of trout. Wading is the primary method of fishing on the North Tongue, so sturdy wading boots and a wading staff are highly recommended for safety on the rocky riverbed.
Access
Seasons
Terrain
Water
Fish Species
Rainbow Trout
Brown Trout
Fishing Styles
USGS Water Conditions
Water conditions for the last 7 days. You can gain insights to fishing activity based on these conditions, like water temperature and flow.
Data sourced from the USGS National Water Information System
Methods
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Wade Friendly
Land Ownership
Private With Easement
Private No Access
Trip Planning
Best fishing typically occurs during summer and fall. Check water conditions before heading out.
See what insects are emerging on Tongue River - North's hatch forecast — including active hatches, water temperatures, and which patterns to have in your box this month.
