Wyoming Fishing License: Everything You Need to Know
Wyoming Fishing License: Everything You Need to Know
is essential for anyone planning to fish in the state’s beautiful waters. Whether you’re a resident or a non-resident, there are several types of licenses available to suit your needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the types of licenses, fees, regulations, and where to buy a Wyoming fishing license. Remember to always carry your license with you while fishing and to respect the environment and the fish population.
Types of Wyoming Fishing Licenses
There are several types of fishing licenses available in Wyoming, depending on your residency status, age, and the duration of the license:
- Resident Fishing License: Available to Wyoming residents who have lived in the state for at least one year. It is valid for one year from the date of purchase and allows the holder to fish in all Wyoming waters.
- Non-Resident Fishing License: For people who don’t live in Wyoming. It is valid for one year from the date of purchase and allows the holder to fish in all Wyoming waters.
- Short-Term Non-Resident Fishing License: For people who don’t live in Wyoming and is valid for one day, three days, or seven days, depending on the chosen duration. It allows the holder to fish in all Wyoming waters.
- Youth Fishing License: Available to residents and non-residents of Wyoming who are under the age of 14. It is valid for one year from the date of purchase and allows the holder to fish in all Wyoming waters.
Fishing License Fees in Wyoming
The price of a fishing license in Wyoming depends on the type of license and its duration:
- Resident Fishing License: $28
- Non-Resident Fishing License: $102
- Short-Term Non-Resident Fishing License: $14 (1 day), $24 (3 days), $32 (7 days)
- Youth Fishing License: $5
It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s website for the most up-to-date information.
Where to Buy a Wyoming Fishing License
You can purchase a Wyoming fishing license through various methods:
- Online: Visit the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website at https://wgfd.wyo.gov/ and follow the prompts to purchase your license.
- In-person at Wyoming Game and Fish Department Offices: Visit any of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department offices spread out across the state.
- Authorized License Sellers: These agents include sporting goods stores, bait shops, and other businesses that sell fishing equipment.
Fishing Regulations in Wyoming
Wyoming is a paradise for anglers, with its diverse range of fishing opportunities. However, to ensure sustainable fishing practices, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department has set forth certain regulations. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the fishing regulations in Wyoming, including fishing season dates and locations, legal fishing methods and creel limits, Free Fishing Day and license exemptions, and live baitfish regulations.
Fishing Season Dates and Locations
Fishing in Wyoming can be done year-round on the North Platte River, with each season offering unique experiences and opportunities.
- Winter (late November to February): Ideal for wade fishing on the North Platte, especially in the Miracle Mile and Upper Grey Reef Section.
- Spring (March to June): The Grey Reef section is particularly abundant with fish during its pre-spawn period.
- Summer (June to August): The Upper Grey Reef section becomes weedy, shifting the focus to the river from Government Bridge to Casper.
- Fall (September to November): The North Platte river below Casper becomes a prime location for fishing.
Legal Fishing Methods and Creel Limits
The statewide creel limit in Wyoming is six (6) for most species, including trout, lake trout, splake, and channel catfish. However, for streams, the limit is three (3) and no more than one (1) trout shall exceed sixteen (16) inches. For other species like brook trout, the limit is sixteen (16), while for burbot (ling) and sauger, the limit is three (3) and two (2) respectively.
Free Fishing Day and License Exemptions
The Wyoming Legislature has approved an annual Wyoming Free Fishing Day, which is part of the National Fishing and Boating Week. In 2022, it was held on June 4.
Fishing licenses are required for resident and nonresident anglers aged 14 years or older, with exceptions for waters where fishing preserve permits, special limited fishing permits, or landowner fishing regulations apply. The fees for these licenses vary.
Live Baitfish Regulations
In Wyoming, the use of live baitfish is only legal in designated waters east of the continental divide. These baitfish must be purchased from a licensed live baitfish dealer or caught by the angler with a valid trapping and seining license for the area in which they will be fishing.
Remember, always review the current Fishing Regulations before fishing to ensure the bait you plan to use is allowed.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Wyoming Fishing License is a necessary step for anyone who wants to fish in Wyoming’s beautiful waters. Whether you prefer to buy your license online, in person, or over the phone, there are several options available to suit your needs. Remember to always carry your license with you while fishing and to respect the environment and the fish population.
