Fishing is a popular pastime in Wyoming, with its vast array of rivers, lakes, and streams teeming with a variety of fish species. To legally fish in the state, anglers must possess a valid fishing license. In 2024, there are several convenient ways to purchase a Wyoming fishing license, whether you’re a resident or non-resident.
Online
The easiest and most convenient way to purchase a Wyoming fishing license in 2024 is online through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s website. This option allows you to buy your license from the comfort of your own home and have it immediately available to print out or store on your mobile device. The online system is user-friendly and secure, making it a popular choice for many anglers.
In Person
If you prefer to purchase your license in person, there are several options available in 2024:
- Wyoming Game and Fish Department Offices: You can visit the Headquarters Office in Cheyenne or any of the eight regional offices located throughout the state. These offices are staffed with knowledgeable personnel who can assist you with purchasing your license and answer any questions you may have.
- License Selling Agents: Many businesses across Wyoming, such as sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and other retail outlets, are licensed to sell fishing licenses on behalf of the Game and Fish Department. These agents can be found in most communities and offer a convenient option for purchasing your license locally.
License Types and Fees
In 2024, Wyoming offers several types of fishing licenses to accommodate the needs of different anglers:
- Resident Daily Fishing License: $6.00
- Resident Annual Fishing License: $24.00
- Resident Youth (Ages 14-18) Annual Fishing License: $3.00
- Non-Resident Daily Fishing License: $14.00
- Non-Resident Annual Fishing License: $102.00
- Non-Resident Youth (14-18) Annual Fishing License: $15.00
It’s important to note that all annual fishing licenses in Wyoming require the purchase of a conservation stamp, which costs an additional $10.50 for residents and $12.50 for non-residents.
Residency Requirements
To qualify as a Wyoming resident for fishing license purposes in 2024, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a United States citizen or legal alien
- Be domiciled in Wyoming for at least one full year immediately preceding the application for a license
- Not have claimed residency in any other state, territory, or country for any purpose during that one-year period
If you don’t meet these requirements, you will need to purchase a non-resident fishing license.
Youth Fishing Licenses
In 2024, children under the age of 14 are not required to have a fishing license in Wyoming. However, they must fish under the supervision of an adult with a valid fishing license, and their catch will count towards the adult’s creel limit. Non-resident youth under 14 who are accompanied by an adult with a valid Wyoming fishing license also do not need a license, but their catch will count towards the adult’s limit.
By purchasing a fishing license in 2024, anglers in Wyoming are not only ensuring they are fishing legally but also contributing to the conservation and management of the state’s fisheries. The fees collected from license sales are used to fund various programs, such as habitat improvement, fish stocking, and research, ensuring that Wyoming’s waters remain healthy and productive for generations to come.