In the winter, southeastern Wyoming lands near our Cheyenne homes display a variety of lakes and streams that freeze up enough for ice fishing.  From our Wyoming ranches and public properties, ice fishing nets four varieties of trout and some walleye, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and yellow perch.  Besides expert fishers, novices from neighborhoods of Cheyenne WY homes hit a jackpot of helpful information by living near the headquarters of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, which is located in Cheyenne.

Here are a few ideas and tips for newcomers to Cheyenne real estate.  In Wyoming, private property is protected.  Do not enter or cross any private property--whether it is marked or unmarked--without property owner permission.  Maps are available at the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.  It is helpful to explore during warm weather, scoping out the rivers and lakes to find the most accessible places with abundant fish.  

According to Shauna Stephenson's article on Ice Fishing 101 at
WyomingNews.com, safety is the No. 1 concern for ice fishing in these parts.  Contrasting with ice in the Midwest, Wyoming ice is not stable all winter long.  Wyoming’s weather patterns cause variances in the thickness of the ice and conditions may change every day.  Warmer temperatures caused by Chinook winds, underwater hot springs, strong currents, inlets, high winds and other factors retard ice development.

Therefore, while in Wyoming, ice fishers must take more precautions.  For example,

• Always fish with a buddy.
• Keep a rope or ladder in the vehicle in case someone falls through the ice.
• Wear high-tech float coats (now available in a fishing-vest design) that inflate using a carbon dioxide cartridge.
• Never drive on late season ice, snow machines or vehicles.
• Learn emergency techniques, such as remaining calm if ice breaks to avoid more breakage.
  

How do you recognize good strong ice?  Clear blue ice may be normal in the Midwest but is less common in these parts.  Clear blue ice is stronger than foggy ice.  Ice should be at least four inches thick to support weight.  Use an auger to punch consecutive holes in the ice while working out to the desired fishing hole.

Basic necessary equipment also includes a rod and stand, live bait or artificial lure, a ladle to scoop the ice from the hole, ice cleats to keep from falling, fish container, and ice spikes around neck for emergencies.  As for clothing, the right gloves are the most essential protection.  Neoprene gloves allow dexterity for tying flies but are not usually warm enough.  Put heavy-duty mittens over them or be prepared with big warm pockets, or both.

How do you ice fish?  Simply put, jig the lure, raise it up two times, and let it float back down.  The fish usually strike on the downward movement.  Reel in and place in cooler or on ice.  Welcome to wonderful Wyoming fishing.  For information about real estate, ranches, and land in Laramie County, call The Property Exchange at (307) 632-6481.