Fontenelle Reservoir Boating Conditions, Boat Ramps & Marine Forecast

24-Hour Boating & Surface Wind Timeline

Official NOAA National Weather Service hour-by-hour wind velocity, peak gusts, and surface chop for Fontenelle Reservoir

Forecast Time	Wind (mph)	Gust (mph)	Direction	Surface Chop & Fetch	Watercraft Readiness
12 PM	10 mph	15 mph	SW	Moderate chop (1–2 ft waves); steady navigation	Favorable
1 PM	14 mph	21 mph	SW	Moderate chop (1–2 ft waves); steady navigation	Favorable
2 PM	16 mph	23 mph	W	Heavy wind chop (2–4 ft waves); small craft caution	Moderate
3 PM	17 mph	27 mph	W	Heavy wind chop (2–4 ft waves); small craft caution	Moderate
4 PM	20 mph	30 mph	W	Heavy wind chop (2–4 ft waves); small craft caution	Caution
5 PM	18 mph	29 mph	W	Heavy wind chop (2–4 ft waves); small craft caution	Caution
6 PM	16 mph	24 mph	W	Heavy wind chop (2–4 ft waves); small craft caution	Moderate
7 PM	12 mph	17 mph	W	Moderate chop (1–2 ft waves); steady navigation	Favorable
8 PM	13 mph	20 mph	SW	Moderate chop (1–2 ft waves); steady navigation	Favorable
9 PM	13 mph	20 mph	SW	Moderate chop (1–2 ft waves); steady navigation	Favorable
10 PM	15 mph	22 mph	SW	Heavy wind chop (2–4 ft waves); small craft caution	Moderate
11 PM	14 mph	21 mph	SW	Moderate chop (1–2 ft waves); steady navigation	Favorable
12 AM	15 mph	23 mph	SW	Heavy wind chop (2–4 ft waves); small craft caution	Moderate
1 AM	13 mph	20 mph	SW	Moderate chop (1–2 ft waves); steady navigation	Favorable
2 AM	15 mph	22 mph	SW	Heavy wind chop (2–4 ft waves); small craft caution	Moderate
3 AM	12 mph	17 mph	SW	Moderate chop (1–2 ft waves); steady navigation	Favorable
4 AM	12 mph	16 mph	SW	Moderate chop (1–2 ft waves); steady navigation	Favorable
5 AM	12 mph	17 mph	SW	Moderate chop (1–2 ft waves); steady navigation	Favorable

Surface chop expands with sustained wind duration across Fontenelle Reservoir's open water fetch. Early morning hours typically offer the calmest navigation before thermal afternoon winds develop.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fontenelle Reservoir Boating

Essential navigation guidelines, ramp rules, speed limits, and cold water hazards for Fontenelle Reservoir

What are the typical wind and surface wave thresholds for boating on Fontenelle Reservoir?

On Fontenelle Reservoir, wind speeds under 10 mph generally produce glassy to light ripple conditions optimal for all recreational craft, including pontoons and bowriders. Winds between 10 and 15 mph generate moderate freshwater chop (1–2 ft waves), while sustained winds exceeding 15 mph or gusts above 20 mph produce steep wind chop and whitecaps requiring vigilance, particularly for vessels under 20 feet. Current observations report wind at 6 mph with gusts to 13 mph.

Where can I launch a boat on Fontenelle Reservoir?

Public boat launch facilities on Fontenelle Reservoir are managed under Wyoming Parks & Wildlife jurisdiction. Check with local park offices for seasonal ramp water depths, gate hours, and launch permit requirements.

What are the navigation rules and speed limits on Fontenelle Reservoir?

Under Wyoming boating statutes and U.S. Coast Guard navigation rules, power-driven vessels must observe a 5 mph flat-wake speed limit within 100 to 200 feet of shorelines, designated swim zones, marinas, and moored craft. Children under 13 must wear an approved USCG Type I, II, or III life jacket while underway on recreational vessels.

Are aquatic invasive species (AIS) inspections required at Fontenelle Reservoir?

Boaters on Fontenelle Reservoir are required to follow mandatory Clean, Drain, and Dry biosecurity protocols. All drain plugs must be pulled and livewells drained prior to transport to prevent the spread of invasive quagga and zebra mussels, curly-leaf pondweed, and other aquatic hitchhikers.

Is cold water shock a risk for boaters and paddlers on Fontenelle Reservoir?

Water temperatures on Fontenelle Reservoir vary seasonally. In spring and early summer, snowmelt and deep thermoclines can keep waters dangerously cold even on warm sunny days. Always dress for possible water immersion and secure an approved life jacket.

Fontenelle Reservoir Boating Conditions, Boat Ramps & Marine Forecast

Live Marine Telemetry & Boating Safety Indicators

Fontenelle Reservoir Boating Suitability

24-Hour Boating & Surface Wind Timeline

Verified Boat Ramps & Marinas Directory

Public Boat Launches for Fontenelle Reservoir

Official Boating Laws & Navigation Regulations

Fontenelle Reservoir Kayak & Paddle Suitability

Frequently Asked Questions About Fontenelle Reservoir Boating