Bull Lake is a big, scenic trout reservoir at the foot of the Wind River Range on the Wind River Indian Reservation near Lander – a nearly 3,000-acre lake known for trophy lake trout and a beautiful mountain setting. Deep, cold and ringed by sage and peaks, it’s a destination for serious trout anglers, though it requires a tribal permit to fish. This guide is part of our growing Wyoming Lakes Database.
- Bull Lake at a glance
- How big and deep is Bull Lake?
- Fishing Bull Lake
- Boating, camping and the setting
- Water level
- Getting there and what’s nearby
- Know before you go
- Frequently asked questions
- What fish are in Bull Lake?
- Do you need a special permit to fish Bull Lake?
- How deep is Bull Lake?
- Where is Bull Lake?
Bull Lake at a glance
- Surface area: ~2,942 acres
- Depth: maximum ~60 ft
- Elevation: ~5,800 ft, at the foot of the Wind River Range
- Location: Fremont County, on the Wind River Indian Reservation (near Lander & Crowheart)
- Top fish: lake trout (Mackinaw), brown trout, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout
How big and deep is Bull Lake?
Bull Lake covers about 2,942 acres with a maximum depth around 60 feet – big, deep, cold water at the edge of the Wind River Range. That depth and cold support a strong trout fishery, including the lake trout the lake is known for, and the mountain backdrop makes it one of the more scenic reservoirs in central Wyoming.
Fishing Bull Lake
Bull Lake has healthy populations of lake trout (Mackinaw), brown trout, rainbow trout and cutthroat trout – a genuine four-trout fishery, with the Mackinaw growing large. Important: Bull Lake is on the Wind River Indian Reservation, so you need a Wind River Tribal fishing and trespass permit (not a standard Wyoming license) to fish or even travel here – and these are required for anyone within the reservation boundaries. A public boat launch provides access, and shore fishing with flies and bait can be good.
Boating, camping and the setting
A boat launch serves the lake, and there are camping options in the area (under tribal regulations). The deep, clear water suits trolling for the Mackinaw, while the scenic, uncrowded setting at the foot of the Winds appeals to those who want a wilder, less-developed lake. Respect reservation rules, permits and any posted closures throughout.
Water level
As an irrigation reservoir, Bull Lake’s level varies with the season and water use. Check current conditions and tribal access rules before a trip.
Getting there and what’s nearby
Bull Lake is northwest of Lander on the Wind River Indian Reservation in Fremont County, central Wyoming, near Crowheart. The Wind River Range, the town of Lander and the Wind River Reservation surround it.
Know before you go
- Tribal permit required: a Wind River Tribal fishing/trespass permit is needed – a standard Wyoming license does not apply.
- Trophy lake trout: a deep, cold, four-trout fishery.
- Respect the reservation: follow all tribal rules, permits and closures.
Frequently asked questions
What fish are in Bull Lake?
Lake trout (Mackinaw, often large), brown trout, rainbow trout and cutthroat trout.
Do you need a special permit to fish Bull Lake?
Yes – Bull Lake is on the Wind River Indian Reservation, so you need a Wind River Tribal fishing and trespass permit, not a standard Wyoming license.
How deep is Bull Lake?
About 60 feet at its deepest, across roughly 2,942 acres.
Where is Bull Lake?
In Fremont County on the Wind River Indian Reservation, northwest of Lander near Crowheart, central Wyoming.
Related: explore more of the largest lakes in Wyoming, or head back to the Wyoming Lakes Database.
Explore more Wyoming lakes: the largest lakes in Wyoming and the deepest lakes in Wyoming.
