Fishing Regulations in Wyoming
Season dates, bag limits, license fees, and tips — updated 2026-03-05
Always verify current regulations before fishing. Regulations change frequently. Visit the official Wyoming Game and Fish Department website for the most up-to-date rules, emergency closures, and special regulations.
🎫 Fishing License Fees
2025–2026Resident License
Non-Resident License
Senior Discount
Under 17
Resident youth under 14 do not need a license; nonresident youth under 14 may fish under accompanying licensed adult rules.
🐟 Season Dates & Bag Limits
| Species | Season | Bag Limit | Size Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trout in combination (brown/cutthroat/rainbow/etc., excluding brook/lake) | Varies by water – Varies by water | Lakes: 6/day; Streams: 3/day; combined total 6/day | In streams, no more than one trout over 16 inches | Statewide creel limits; many drainage exceptions. Plan by waterbody in Wyoming, since local chapters and seasonal access details can differ significantly. |
| Lake Trout & Splake | Varies by water – Varies by water | 6/day combined | No more than one over 24 inches | Statewide creel limits. Plan by waterbody in Wyoming, since local chapters and seasonal access details can differ significantly. |
| Largemouth/Smallmouth Bass | Varies by water – Varies by water | 6/day combined | None statewide | See WGFD area regulations for specific waters. Plan by waterbody in Wyoming, since local chapters and seasonal access details can differ significantly. |
| Walleye | Varies by water – Varies by water | 6/day | None statewide | Area-specific exceptions apply. Plan by waterbody in Wyoming, since local chapters and seasonal access details can differ significantly. |
| Tiger Muskie | Varies by water – Varies by water | 1/day | All fish under 36 inches must be released immediately | Statewide creel limits page. Plan by waterbody in Wyoming, since local chapters and seasonal access details can differ significantly. |
Source: Wyoming Game and Fish / eRegulations 2026. Last updated: 2026-03-05. Regulations may have changed — always verify with the official agency.
About Fishing in Wyoming
Wyoming offers varied freshwater fishing across rivers, reservoirs, and local waters, with consistent opportunity for Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Lake Trout, Walleye. Success usually comes from matching your plan to each waterbody instead of relying on one statewide pattern. Use Wyoming Game and Fish / eRegulations 2026 materials alongside current conditions to choose access points, launch timing, and presentations that fit the day. Excellent river trout fishing as flows stabilize. High-country lakes open up and reservoir patterns become predictable. Prime trophy trout window with cooler water and lower pressure. Selective tailwater and open-water opportunities where accessible. License costs listed here include $27.00 resident 12-month fishing license (+ conservation stamp) and $102.00 nonresident 12-month fishing license (+ conservation stamp), so confirm eligibility and carry proof while on the water. Build a simple pre-trip checklist covering regulations, weather shifts, and backup spots so you can adjust quickly and keep more time with lines in the water.
Best Times to Fish in Wyoming
🌱 Spring
Excellent river trout fishing as flows stabilize.
☀️ Summer
High-country lakes open up and reservoir patterns become predictable.
🍂 Fall
Prime trophy trout window with cooler water and lower pressure.
❄️ Winter
Selective tailwater and open-water opportunities where accessible.
🎣 Expert Fishing Tips for Wyoming
- On iconic rivers like the North Platte and Green, check section-specific regulations before launch—rules can change by reach.
- In wind-prone reservoirs such as Pathfinder and Boysen, morning windows are often best for walleye and trout trolling.
- Carry multiple nymph sizes for freestone rivers; seasonal insect shifts can be dramatic at elevation.
- Use the WGFD area tables to check exceptions, especially for trout size/creel and special management waters.
🏛️ Official Wildlife Agency
🗺️ Nearby States (West)
Also available: Hunting Regulations in Wyoming — deer, turkey, waterfowl season dates, bag limits, and license info.