Anglers in Wyoming must have a valid fishing permit to fish legally in state waters. State licenses to fish are issued by the Game and Fish Department (WGFD). Fishing permits in Wyoming are categorized based on a number of factors such as the age of the applicant, the applicant’s residency status and how long the fishing license is valid for. Additional fishing instruction for novice anglers is available through the state department as well. For experienced anglers, a number of fishing organizations operate throughout the state. Learn more about how to buy fishing licenses in Wyoming and read related topics outlined below:
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Wyoming fishing licenses must be purchased by any angler if he or she wishes to conduct sport fishing in the state. Issued by the WGFD, fishing permits are mainly categorized based on the applicant’s age. Two types of recreational fishing licenses are available through the Game and Fish Department (WGFD):
Apply and buy a WY fishing license through the WGFD Online Electronic Licensing System. Be ready to enter the following information:
Additionally, you will need to provide proof of your residency status if you are applying for a residential fishing license. A recent utility bill or your state drivers license may be accepted as proof of residency.
Wyoming residential fishing licenses are available through the WGFD and are required to conduct fishing as a resident in the state. A WY resident is considered a person who has lived in the state for at least one year consecutively prior to applying for the fishing permit. Additionally, active duty military members and students attending a Wyoming educational institution are considered residents when buying fishing licenses. Residential fishing license options include:
Note: Residential fishing license fees are subject to change without notice.
Visitors to Wyoming must buy non resident fishing licenses to legally conduct sport fishing in state waters. Non residents are considered any individuals who have not lived in the state for at least 365 consecutive days, with the exception of active-duty military members and students at WY educational institutions. Non resident fishing license options include:
Note: Non resident fishing license fees are subject to change without notice.
The WGFD has many educational opportunities for both hunters and anglers throughout the state. In addition to holding free fishing days each year, the department offers youth fishing challenges to engage children in fishing activities and teach them the basics of fishing. For example, Forever Wild Families is a WGFD-sponsored program aimed at providing residents with a safe environment to learn more about fishing as a family, with a focus on safe and ethical fishing practices as well as wildlife conservation.
Experienced anglers in Wyoming are encouraged to meet other fishing enthusiasts by joining a local fishing organization. Many of the most popular national organizations have chapters in the state. A few of these fishing organizations are also unique to the area as well:
Fish N’ Chicks: Wyoming Women’s Fly Fishing Club is run by the University of Wyoming with a focus on promoting fly fishing amongst women in the state. With regular events including meetings and tournaments, the group also promotes wildlife conservation as well as ethical fishing practices.
The Wyoming Wildlife Federation is a general sportsman advocacy group with a central focus on wildlife conservation in the state. Working closely with the WGFD, the Wildlife Federation aims to protect the natural habitats throughout the state while promoting safe fishing and hunting practices.
Even though the Wyoming Disabled Hunters is a group focused on hunting, the organization has expanded its reach to disabled anglers as well. The group’s support system promotes social interaction between disabled anglers and hunters of all ages and skill levels. The Wyoming Disabled Hunters is open to all residents of the state, regardless of their disability status, and volunteers are welcomed at any time.
