Wyoming Fishing Adventures: A Guide to Legal and Safe Angling

Wyoming boasts abundant fishing opportunities, whether you’re casting your line in Yellowstone National Park, navigating the waters of the Wind River Reservation (WRIR), or exploring the pristine lakes and rivers scattered throughout Cody, the Bighorn Basin, and the rest of the state. Before you pack your gear and head for the water, here’s essential information to ensure legal and safe angling during your fly fishing trip in the western part of the state in 2024.

State of Wyoming, Licensing and Regulations

Non-resident anglers aged 14 and older must purchase a fishing license to fish in Wyoming (with the exception of YNP and WRIR). We sell Wyoming State Licenses here in the fly shop. Licensing fees for 2024 vary based on duration, ranging from a Daily Fishing License at $14 to a 12 Month Fishing License at $102.  If you are a resident of Wyoming a license will run you between $3 and $27.  If you purchase a season license you will also need to purchase a conservation stamp as well.  A Conservation Stamp is $21.50.

Fishing in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park offers breathtaking scenery and great fishing experiences that are a thrill for many anglers. Permits can easily be purchased online prior to your trip at this link: Yellowstone National Park Fishing Permit  The park service recommends not trying to purchase online while in the park as cell phone service is extremely limited.  Pricing for 2024 ranges from $40 to $75 for everyone regardless of if you are a resident or non-resident of that state.

Please note:  You must still pay park entrance fees the day of your visit or hold a National Parks Annual Pass.

There are MANY rules and regulations to fishing America’s first national park.  Here is a link to a 30 page guide that makes those easy to understand and follow:  Yellowstone Fishing Regulations Our beautiful Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout is the only native trout in the ecosystem and can thrive in the park with your careful consideration and care.  

Fishing on Wind River Reservation

Covering nearly 2.3 million acres, the Wind River Reservation requires a tribal fishing permit, which can be obtained through authorized tribal sites in person {link}. Non-resident permits range from $40 to $135.  Residents of Wyoming the permits range from $20 to $95.  State licenses are not required or valid. Please respect the Northern Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone tribal sovereignty and strictly adhere to reservation fishing regulations at all times.  Even though Wind River Reservation is in Wyoming, you are a guest on native land. Large portions of the reservation are closed to non-native members of the tribes.  Additionally, a $20 annual Recreation Stamp is required in addition to the WRIR Permit.

Everyone (unless under the age of 15) that is recreating in any way on the reservation lands needs a Tribal Fishing Permit, which is in fact a WRIR Trespassing Permit. It makes NO DIFFERENCE if you plan to fish or not.

Floating rivers for fishing or recreation IS NOT PERMITTED by non-natives.  To do so you must be with a guide assigned to that waterway.  You can find more information here: Wind River Fish and Game

Safe Angling in Wyoming

Monitoring water temperature is crucial for the health and safety of trout populations in Wyoming, especially during the warmer months when streams and rivers are rapidly changing temperature throughout the day. As water temperatures rise, trout become more susceptible to stress and mortality, particularly in shallower, slower-moving waters. Anglers should prioritize fishing during cooler times of the day and in areas with cooler water temperatures to minimize stress on trout.  Our Fishing Report is updated at a minimum of weekly and is a great resource for what is fishing well and safely.

Practicing proper catch-and-release techniques is essential for the well-being of trout. When handling trout, wet your hands before touching them to prevent damaging their delicate mucous coating, which protects against infections and diseases. Avoid lifting trout out of the water for extended periods and release them gently, ensuring they have ample time to recover before swimming away. By respecting water temperature and handling trout with care, anglers can contribute to the conservation and sustainability of trout populations for future generations to enjoy.

Western Wyoming is Grizzly Bear Country!  It's vital to prioritize safety and be “Bear Aware” at ALL TIMES. Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife (do not approach moose or bison), make noise to avoid startling bears, and store food securely to deter them from your vicinity. While fly fishing, carry bear spray and know how to deploy it swiftly and effectively. Stay vigilant, scanning for signs of bear activity, and if you encounter one, calmly retreat to give it space. Remember, your safety and the welfare of these animals go hand in hand. By respecting their habitat and being aware of your surrounding, you can fully enjoy your fly fishing adventure here in Wyoming's untamed wilderness with confidence.