Get Your Wyoming Fishing License: A Comprehensive 2025 Guide

Unlock the best fishing spots in Wyoming with our complete 2025 guide. Whether you’re targeting trophy fish in the renowned Flaming Gorge Reservoir or casting a line in the secluded streams of the Snake River, there’s a perfect spot for every angler in the Cowboy State. But before you start your fishing adventure, it’s essential to obtain a valid Wyoming fishing license. This guide provides everything you need to know—how to apply for a license, state regulations, the top fishing destinations, and expert tips to ensure you have a successful and enjoyable fishing experience.

Who Needs a Wyoming Fishing License?

In Wyoming, anyone aged 14 or older who wants to fish in public waters must obtain a fishing license. This applies to both residents and non-residents alike. Purchasing a fishing license not only allows you to fish legally but also helps fund essential conservation efforts to preserve Wyoming’s pristine ecosystems and fish populations.

Exceptions to the License Requirement

There are a few specific situations where you may not need a standard fishing license:

• Fishing in Private Waters: You do not need a license if fishing on private land or in private fishing preserves. However, you may still need written permission from the landowner or adhere to special regulations.
• Residents with Disabilities: Wyoming residents who are permanently and totally disabled are eligible for a free lifetime fishing license and conservation stamp. To qualify, submit proof of disability to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
• Senior Residents (65 and Older): Wyoming residents aged 65 or older with 30+ years of state residency qualify for a free “Lifetime Pioneer” fishing license.
• Free Fishing Day: Every year, Wyoming offers a Free Fishing Day (typically the first Saturday of National Boating and Fishing Week). On this day, both residents and non-residents can fish without a license. However, all other fishing regulations, including bag limits and size restrictions, still apply.

For detailed information on eligibility for license exemptions, check the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s License Exemption Page.

Types of Wyoming Fishing Licenses for 2025

Wyoming offers various types of fishing licenses, tailored to the needs of residents, non-residents, and special cases. Below are the license options and associated fees for 2025:

Resident Fishing Licenses:

• Annual License: $27
• One-Day License: $7
• Youth License (under 18): $6.50
• Lifetime License:
• Under 18: $301.50
• Ages 18-61: $553
• 62 and older: $31.50

Non-Resident Fishing Licenses:

• Annual License: $102
• One-Day License: $16
• Youth License (under 18): $6.50
• Annual Disability License: $6.50

Conservation Stamp:

• Resident: $22.50
• Non-Resident: $34

All anglers, regardless of license type, must purchase a conservation stamp. The funds from this stamp go directly to Wyoming’s wildlife conservation and habitat restoration efforts. You can purchase the stamp when applying for your fishing license.

How to Get Your Wyoming Fishing License

There are multiple convenient ways to obtain your Wyoming fishing license. Here are the most common methods:

1. Online Application

The easiest way to get your fishing license is through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s website:

1. Visit the Wyoming Game and Fish Department Website.
2. Click the “Apply or Buy” button at the top of the page.
3. Choose “Apply for Licenses” from the dropdown menu.
4. Select your residency status and the license type you wish to purchase.
5. Complete your application, submit payment, and print your license.

2. In-Person Purchase

If you prefer to purchase your license in person, you can visit any authorized vendor across the state, including sporting goods stores, department stores, and regional Game and Fish offices. To find the nearest vendor, visit the Wyoming License Vendors page.

3. By Phone

You can also buy your fishing license by phone. Call the Wyoming Game and Fish Department at 1-800-842-1934 to purchase a license using your credit card. Be sure to have your proof of residency and a valid ID ready.

Top Fishing Destinations in Wyoming

Once your fishing license is in hand, it’s time to hit the waters! Wyoming offers an array of fishing experiences, from world-class trout streams to serene mountain lakes. Here are some of the state’s most popular fishing spots, complete with specifics on what you can catch, the best seasons to fish, and how to make the most of your fishing trip.

1. Flaming Gorge Reservoir (Southern Wyoming)

Flaming Gorge Reservoir is one of Wyoming’s top fishing destinations, offering trophy-sized lake trout, kokanee salmon, and rainbow trout. The reservoir spans 91 miles and crosses into Utah, providing ample shore and boat fishing opportunities. The fish here grow large, and the scenery around the reservoir is breathtaking, making it perfect for a relaxing yet rewarding fishing trip.

• Fish Species: Lake trout, rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, smallmouth bass, yellow perch.
• Best Time to Fish: The best fishing occurs in spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) when lake trout and salmon are most active. Early mornings and late evenings are ideal for fishing.
• Fishing Tips: Use deep-water techniques like trolling for lake trout, as they prefer colder, deeper waters during summer. Kokanee salmon are best targeted in the spring during their spawning run.

For real-time information on fishing conditions and water levels, visit the Flaming Gorge Reservoir Fishing Report.

2. North Platte River (South-Central Wyoming)

Flowing through the stunning Medicine Bow National Forest, the North Platte River is renowned for its outstanding fly fishing opportunities. Known for clear waters and large populations of brown and rainbow trout, this river is a fly angler’s paradise. The Miracle Mile stretch near Glenrock is particularly famous for its abundant fish and breathtaking scenery.

• Fish Species: Brown trout, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout.
• Best Time to Fish: Late spring to early fall (May–September). Spring runoff in the early season can make fishing challenging, so wait until late May for the best conditions. During late summer, fish are found in deeper pools.
• Fishing Tips: The Miracle Mile area has strict regulations, so be sure to check for catch limits and restrictions. Dry fly fishing can be very productive in the summer months, especially with caddis flies and mayflies.

For more details, check the North Platte River Fishing Regulations.

3. Yellowstone National Park (Northwestern Wyoming)

Yellowstone National Park is a bucket-list destination for many anglers, offering a mix of lakes, streams, and rivers full of native fish species. You can fish in remote streams, high-altitude lakes, and iconic rivers, all while enjoying the park’s stunning natural beauty. Anglers target native cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and grayling.

• Fish Species: Native cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, grayling, brook trout.
• Best Time to Fish: Summer through early fall (June–September). Fishing is allowed from Memorial Day weekend through November 1. Make sure to check for specific area closures during the winter months to protect spawning fish.
• Fishing Tips: Some streams have restrictions on fishing methods or seasonal closures. Slough Creek and Yellowstone Lake are famous spots for cutthroat trout. Use a mix of dry flies and nymphs, and be prepared to hike to some of the more remote locations for a quieter experience.

For more on fishing within the park, visit the Yellowstone National Park Fishing Guide.

4. Green River (Western Wyoming)

The Green River near Pinedale is a famous tailwater fishery that offers world-class fly fishing. Known for its large populations of brown and rainbow trout, the Green River is a serene location with great access to public fishing areas. It’s especially renowned for its spring and early summer fishing, but fish can be caught year-round.

• Fish Species: Brown trout, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout.
• Best Time to Fish: Spring through fall (April–October). Late spring (May–June) is prime for catching larger fish, especially in the tailwater below Fontenelle Reservoir.
• Fishing Tips: This section of the Green River is excellent for both beginners and experienced anglers. Fish large streamers in deeper pools for big trout or use smaller nymphs and dry flies for more delicate presentations. Early mornings are often the best time.

For updates and fishing tips, check the Green River Fishing Report.

5. Bighorn River (Central Wyoming)

The Bighorn River, flowing from the Bighorn Mountains, is one of Wyoming’s premier fly fishing destinations. Its crystal-clear waters and abundant trout populations make it an excellent choice year-round, particularly for those who prefer dry fly fishing. The river’s consistent flows make it a reliable spot, regardless of the season.

• Fish Species: Brown trout, rainbow trout, and the occasional brook trout.
• Best Time to Fish: Summer and early fall (June–September) are the best times, with high-water flows typically settling by mid-spring.
• Fishing Tips: Dry fly fishing is most productive in the summer months. The Bighorn is famous for its dry fly hatches in June and July, particularly with caddis and mayflies. If fishing in the fall, use nymphs and streamers as trout become more opportunistic feeders.

For detailed conditions and reports, visit the Bighorn River Fishing Report.

Fishing Regulations to Keep in Mind

Before you cast your line, familiarize yourself with Wyoming’s fishing regulations to ensure responsible and sustainable angling. Adhering to these regulations helps protect fish populations and ensures future generations can enjoy Wyoming’s incredible fishing opportunities. Here are key regulations to keep in mind:

Catch Limits and Size Restrictions

Wyoming has specific catch limits and size restrictions that vary by waterbody and species. It’s important to check local rules before fishing to avoid any violations. Some common restrictions include:

• Trout: The daily bag limit is typically 5 trout per day, with some waters enforcing different size limits to protect juvenile or spawning fish. For example, Yellowstone Lake has a 5-trout per day limit with a minimum size of 12 inches for cutthroat trout.
• Lake Trout: Many reservoirs, including Flaming Gorge, have stricter regulations for lake trout. Flaming Gorge has a daily limit of 6 lake trout with no minimum size restriction, but anglers are encouraged to harvest smaller fish to protect larger populations.
• Bass: In many areas, you may catch up to 5 bass per day, but some locations may have seasonal restrictions or size limits.

For specific size limits, catch limits, or seasonal restrictions, check the regulations for the specific waterbody you plan to fish in.

Special Regulations

Certain areas in Wyoming have special regulations designed to protect fish populations or maintain ecological balance. Make sure to familiarize yourself with these before you start fishing:

• Catch-and-Release Only Areas: Some rivers and streams in Wyoming, like parts of the Snake River and North Platte River (Miracle Mile stretch), require catch-and-release fishing only to preserve the population of specific fish species. In these zones, you must release any fish you catch back into the water immediately, ensuring minimal harm.
• For example, the North Platte River’s Miracle Mile has special regulations where you can only catch and release fish, especially large brown and rainbow trout. It’s crucial to use barbless hooks in these areas to minimize injury to the fish.
• Restricted Fishing Methods: Some bodies of water restrict the use of certain fishing methods to help control invasive species and prevent the spread of diseases. Specifically:
• The use of live bait is prohibited in many streams and lakes to reduce the risk of introducing non-native fish or diseases. For example, Snake River and Yellowstone Lake prohibit live bait to protect their native fish populations.
• Fishing from boats is restricted in certain areas of Yellowstone National Park to preserve the ecosystem and limit the disturbance to wildlife. Always consult local fishing guides for the appropriate methods to use based on the area.
• Fishing Hours and Seasonal Closures: Some fish species, like trout, are only open to fishing during specific months. For example, cutthroat trout in Yellowstone National Park are only open to fishing during the summer and early fall, with seasonal closures from mid-October through April. It’s critical to verify which species are open for fishing when planning your trip.
• Yellowstone Lake has fishing closures from October 15 to May 15, protecting spawning cutthroat trout.
• Similarly, some areas of Flaming Gorge Reservoir may have seasonal closures for lake trout during the spawning season to protect juvenile populations.

Fishing Licenses and Fees

Ensure you have the appropriate fishing license for the area you are visiting. Wyoming offers both resident and non-resident fishing licenses with the following fee structure:

• Resident Licenses:
• Annual: $27
• One-Day: $7
• Youth (under 18): $6.50
• Lifetime (varied by age and residency): Prices range from $31.50 to $553 depending on age.
• Non-Resident Licenses:
• Annual: $102
• One-Day: $16
• Youth (under 18): $6.50
• Conservation Stamp: All anglers (residents and non-residents) are required to purchase a Conservation Stamp, which costs $22.50 for residents and $34 for non-residents. These stamps fund conservation efforts in Wyoming.

For a full breakdown of fishing license fees and options, visit the Wyoming Game and Fish License Page.

Expert Tips for a Successful Fishing Trip

To ensure you have a successful fishing trip, here are some expert tips:

• Check Local Fishing Reports: Before heading out, consult the Wyoming Game and Fish website for updated fishing reports and water conditions. This will help you choose the best baits and techniques for the day.
• Use the Right Gear: Wyoming’s varied fish species require different tackle. Invest in quality gear tailored to the species you’re targeting—whether it’s fly fishing rods for trout or heavy-duty tackle for lake trout.
• Practice Catch-and-Release: If you’re fishing in areas where catch-and-release is required or encouraged, make sure to handle fish gently and use barbless hooks to minimize injury to the fish.
• Hire a Local Guide: If you’re unfamiliar with Wyoming’s fishing waters, hiring a local guide can enhance your experience. They know the best spots, tackle recommendations, and seasonal fishing patterns.
• Be Prepared for Weather Changes: Wyoming’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains. Always bring layers, sunscreen, and be ready for rain or wind.

Conclusion

Obtaining your Wyoming fishing license is the first step toward an unforgettable fishing adventure in one of the most beautiful and diverse states in the country. By understanding the license process, following state regulations, and preparing with the right gear, you’ll maximize your chances of a successful trip. So grab your fishing license, pick your destination, and get ready to enjoy everything Wyoming has to offer in 2025!