Do You Need a Conservation Stamp to Fish in Wyoming in 2024?

If you’re planning to fish in the beautiful state of Wyoming in 2024, it’s important to understand the regulations regarding conservation stamps. In Wyoming, a conservation stamp is required for most anglers to legally fish in the state’s waters.

What is a Conservation Stamp?

A conservation stamp is a permit that anglers must purchase in addition to their fishing license. The stamp is valid for 12 consecutive months and helps support habitat and wildlife conservation efforts in Wyoming. Funds from the sale of conservation stamps are used to maintain and improve fishing access, restore habitats, and protect wildlife populations across the state.

Who Needs a Conservation Stamp?

Most anglers licensed to fish in Wyoming are required to purchase a conservation stamp. This includes both residents and non-residents who hold annual or daily fishing licenses. The conservation stamp requirement applies to anyone 14 years of age or older.

However, there are a few exceptions to the conservation stamp rule. Anglers who hold the following licenses are exempt from the requirement:

Daily fishing license
5-day fishing license
Special limited fishing permit
50% disabled veteran fishing license
Resident permanently and totally disabled lifetime fishing license
Wyoming pioneer fishing license
Honorably discharged 100% disabled resident veteran fishing license
Veteran with disabilities fishing license or special permits for a wheelchair user with a permanent disability
Resident US Military Purple Heart Medal recipients

Additionally, anglers 13 years old and younger are not required to have a conservation stamp, but they must share the creel limit of the adult they are fishing with.

How to Purchase a Conservation Stamp

Conservation stamps can be purchased through several convenient methods:

Online at the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website
In-person at the Cheyenne headquarters or WGFD regional offices
From authorized license-selling agents throughout the state

Conservation stamps cost $12.50 for both residents and non-residents. Anglers can also choose to purchase a lifetime conservation stamp for $496.50, which is valid for the lifetime of the holder.

Importance of Conservation Stamps

Conservation stamps play a crucial role in maintaining the health and abundance of Wyoming’s fish populations and their habitats. By purchasing a stamp, anglers contribute directly to projects that:

Improve and maintain fishing access
Restore and protect fish habitats
Enhance fish populations
Support wildlife conservation efforts

These efforts help ensure that Wyoming’s waters remain healthy and productive for generations of anglers to come.

Consequences of Fishing Without a Conservation Stamp

Fishing without a valid conservation stamp in Wyoming can result in serious consequences. Game wardens regularly check for licenses and stamps, and anglers caught without the required permits may face:

Fines ranging from $220 to $5,000
Jail time of up to 1 year
Revocation of fishing privileges

To avoid these penalties and support the conservation of Wyoming’s natural resources, it’s essential for all anglers to purchase a valid conservation stamp before heading out to fish in 2024.