ABOUT THE GROS VENTRE RIVER IN WYOMING

Fish Species

The Gros Ventre River is home to several sought-after species:

• Snake River Fine-Spotted Cutthroat Trout: Native to the area and highly prized for their fight.
• Mountain Whitefish: Often found in deeper, calmer sections of the river.

Fly Hatches

Fly hatches on the Gros Ventre River are abundant, offering anglers excellent opportunities to match the hatch and catch trophy trout. Key hatches include:

• Stoneflies: Particularly golden stoneflies and salmonflies, which attract hungry trout.
• Mayflies: Including PMDs and Blue-Winged Olives, which are prevalent during the summer and fall.
• Caddisflies: Summer months bring strong caddis hatches, especially in the evening.
• Terrestrials: Grasshoppers, ants, and beetles are plentiful along the grassy banks in late summer and early fall.

5 Fun Facts About the Gros Ventre River

1. Teton Wilderness Source: The Gros Ventre River originates in the Teton Wilderness, an area known for its rugged beauty and pristine conditions.
2. Wildlife Hotspot: The river corridor is home to diverse wildlife, including moose, elk, grizzly bears, and bald eagles, making it a fantastic place for both fishing and wildlife viewing.
3. Cutthroat Stronghold: The Gros Ventre River is a haven for native Snake River fine-spotted cutthroat trout, prized by anglers for their beauty and fight.
4. Geological Wonder: The Gros Ventre Slide, one of the largest landslides in North American history, created Lower Slide Lake, which feeds the Gros Ventre River.
5. A Hidden Gem: Despite its proximity to Jackson Hole, the Gros Ventre River remains a relatively uncrowded spot for fishing, offering solitude and excellent fishing opportunities.

Ecological Overview

The Gros Ventre River supports a rich ecosystem, contributing to the larger Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone area. It provides vital habitat for many species, including native fish and other aquatic life. The river’s healthy riparian zones help maintain the biodiversity of the region, and its waters flow cold and clear, fed by snowmelt from the surrounding mountains. Moose and other wildlife are often spotted along its banks, making it a prime spot for both fishing and sightseeing.

Hydrology

The Gros Ventre River’s flow is primarily driven by snowmelt from the surrounding Teton Range. This results in high, fast-moving water in the spring and early summer, followed by lower, clearer flows as the season progresses. The river’s meandering path creates deep pools, riffles, and undercut banks that provide prime trout habitat. Lower Slide Lake, formed by the historic Gros Ventre Slide, feeds the river, helping to moderate its flow in the summer months.

Historical Information

The Gros Ventre River has long been a vital part of the region’s history. The valley was historically used by Native American tribes for hunting and fishing, and it became a critical resource for early settlers and trappers. The Gros Ventre Slide of 1925 remains one of the most significant geological events in Wyoming’s history. This massive landslide created Lower Slide Lake and forever altered the landscape of the region.

Join us on a trip to the Gros Ventre river today, check out our Jackson Hole fly fishing trip options!