In the rugged expanses of southwest Wyoming, where the crisp winter air meets vast reservoirs, a call to arms is going out to fishermen everywhere. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is rallying anglers to step up and tackle a persistent problem: invasive species that threaten local waters. This coming year, three derbies and a fresh harvest program offer chances to haul in unwanted fish, earn some rewards, and help restore balance to these prime fishing spots. It's more than just a hobby—it's a way for guys who love the outdoors to make a real difference while enjoying the thrill of the catch.
The trouble started over two decades ago when burbot were illegally dumped into the Green River drainage. These bottom-dwellers have been wreaking havoc ever since, outcompeting native fish and disrupting the ecosystem. But anglers have been the frontline fighters in this fight. "Burbot were illegally introduced to the Green River drainage more than 20 years ago and anglers have played a major role in helping to reduce their impact ever since," notes a recent update from Game and Fish. Programs like these derbies aren't just events; they're proven strategies that have pulled tens of thousands of these invaders from the water, giving native species a fighting chance.
Kicking things off is the 2026 Burbot Bash, set for January 23 through 25 at Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Hosted by Daggett County, this popular gathering draws around 800 participants each year. It all began back in 2011, and over the seasons, folks have harvested more than 50,000 burbot during the derby alone. Last year's event in 2025 saw anglers reel in 4,675 of them, and organizers are aiming even higher this time around. Registration is open right now and runs through January 18, so anyone interested should jump on it soon. It's a weekend of competition, camaraderie, and conservation, where every fish caught counts toward protecting the reservoir's health.
Not far away, another burbot-targeted showdown is brewing at Fontenelle Reservoir near LaBarge. The Ding the Ling derby is scheduled for February 6 to 8, put on by the LaBarge Events Committee. Last year, participants brought in 1,277 burbot, including one monster that stretched to 36.2 inches. That's the kind of trophy that gets stories told around the campfire for years. Details on how to sign up will drop in the coming weeks via social media, so keep an eye out if you're in the area or up for a road trip. These events turn what could be a nuisance into an exciting challenge, letting fishermen use their skills to curb the spread of these unwanted guests.
Shifting focus to lake trout, which have also become a concern in Flaming Gorge, the Mac Attack derby offers a targeted strike against the smaller ones. Hosted by Buckboard Marina, it's happening February 20 to 22. In past years, with harvest limits in place, anglers have pulled out up to 900 lake trout over just two days. But things are changing for the better. A new rule kicked in on the Wyoming side in October 2024, and on the Utah side starting January 1, 2025, allowing unlimited takes of lake trout 28 inches or smaller. "The combination of good angler participation and unlimited harvest can have a large and positive impact on the entire fishery," the Game and Fish release points out. This means more action on the ice or open water, and a bigger boost to the overall fish population by thinning out the overabundant small fry.
Adding a new twist this year is the Angler Harvest Program, a pilot effort running from January 1 to April 30 at Flaming Gorge. Backed by the Flaming Gorge Chamber of Commerce, it's designed to be straightforward and rewarding without the hassle. There's no entry fee and no need to register ahead of time. Anglers can score cash prizes for the highest number of lake trout harvested, for nabbing tagged fish, or even through random drawings. All it takes is harvesting the fish, submitting their heads in a specially numbered bag along with a quick survey, and dropping them off at one of four freezers scattered around the reservoir. More specifics on the process will be posted on the Flaming Gorge Reservoir Management page, partner sites, and right on the freezers themselves. It's an easy way for regular fishermen to contribute over the season, turning everyday outings into opportunities for extra cash and ecosystem help.
Of course, with all this harvesting comes some practical advice on handling the catch. While it's perfectly legal to waste burbot and lake trout from Flaming Gorge, the folks at Game and Fish encourage eating them or passing them along to someone who will. These fish can make for a decent meal if prepared right—grilled, fried, or smoked. If disposal is the route, the best method is to gut them and toss them back into the water, letting nature recycle the nutrients. As a last resort, bag them up in plastic and use a dumpster at home or around the reservoir for cleaner handling. It's all about respecting the resource while getting the job done.
Keep in mind, these events could shift due to weather or safety issues, so checking updates from Game and Fish or the hosts is smart before heading out. Pack the gear, layer up against the Wyoming chill, and get ready for some serious fishing. Whether you're a seasoned pro with stories from derbies past or a guy looking to try something new, these opportunities blend the rush of competition with the satisfaction of stewardship. In a world where natural spots are under pressure, stepping up as an angler means preserving the waters for future trips—and that's a legacy worth casting for.
