How to Get a Wyoming Non-Resident Hunting License
Your Guide to Application and Regulations
This Article is Part of Our Guide to Non Resident Hunting Licenses by State
Obtaining a non-resident hunting license in Wyoming offers outdoor enthusiasts an opportunity to experience the vast wilderness and rich wildlife of the state. Each year, hunters across the nation turn their sights toward Wyoming's diverse hunting grounds, home to species ranging from elk to antelope. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department regulates the distribution of hunting licenses, ensuring sustainable wildlife management and conservation efforts. Non-residents must navigate a set of regulations and application processes to secure a license, which includes participating in special draws for limited quota big game animals and purchasing conservation stamps, mandatory for anyone wishing to hunt or fish in Wyoming.
To ensure a smooth application process, non-residents should understand the requirements and deadlines set by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. While proof of hunter education is not necessary to submit an application, carrying this certification during the actual hunt is compulsory. Applicants may also explore options such as the Super Tag raffle or preference point systems to increase their chances of success in the draws. Those unsuccessful in obtaining a license for specific game may have their license fees refunded, although the application fees are typically retained by the department to contribute toward conservation and management programs.
A sense of clarity and preparedness is crucial when planning a hunt in Wyoming. Whether an individual is aiming for their first hunting experience in the state or planning a return trip, adhering to the laid out rules and deadlines is essential. By doing so, non-residents not only ensure compliance with state laws but also contribute to the overarching goal of sustaining Wyoming's wildlife heritage for future generations.
Eligibility and Requirements for Nonresident Hunters
For those looking to hunt in Wyoming, nonresident status comes with specific eligibility and requirements. Critical for adherence are understandings of residency status, hunter education, and necessary identification.
Determining Nonresident Status
A nonresident is any individual who does not meet the qualifications of a Wyoming resident. One must provide evidence of residency from another state or country when applying for nonresident licenses. Note that Wyoming enforces strict criteria for nonresident hunters, including limited quotas and license availability to manage wildlife sustainably.
Hunter Education Requirements
Nonresident hunters must show proof of having completed a hunter education course if born on or after January 1, 1966. However, exceptions apply to active or honorably discharged military and retired Wyoming peace officers. These exemptions are in recognition of their equivalent or superior firearms safety training.
Required: Hunter education certificate
Exempt: Active & discharged military, retired Wyoming peace officers
Identification and Personal Information Necessities
To obtain a nonresident hunter's license in Wyoming, individuals must submit accurate personal information along with proper identification. This typically includes:
Full legal name
Date of birth
Social security number
Valid photo identification (driver's license, passport, etc.)
These details serve to verify eligibility and ensure the responsible allocation of licenses to nonresident hunters.
Types of Nonresident Licenses and Permits
When planning a hunting trip to Wyoming, nonresidents have a variety of licenses and permits to consider. These are segmented based on the species being hunted, the type of hunt, and any special circumstances that apply.
Big Game Licenses
The cornerstone of nonresident hunting in Wyoming is the Big Game License, which includes the opportunity to pursue species such as deer, elk, antelope, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, and wild bison (What wine goes well with bison?). Licenses for big game may come in several forms, including:
Full Price: Allows hunting for antlered or horned animals, depending on the species.
Reduced Price: Typically for cow/calf or doe/fawn of the species.
General and Limited Quota Hunts
General hunts are typically available in units with larger wildlife populations and fewer management restrictions, allowing for a more flexible hunting experience.
Available for: Select species like deer and antelope.
Limited quota hunts are controlled for herd management and conservation purposes, requiring hunters to participate in a draw.
Available for: Species such as moose, wild bison, and big horn sheep.
Specialty Licenses
Specialty licenses cater to unique hunting situations or methods, including:
Archery Licenses: For hunters participating in archery-only seasons.
Preference Points: Useful for increasing the odds of drawing a limited quota hunt in future years.
Permits and stamps may also be required alongside licenses for specific game or conservation funds. For instance, a conservation stamp is an additional requirement with every license purchase.
Application Process for Nonresident Licenses
Applying for a nonresident hunting license in Wyoming requires navigating through an online application system, understanding the preference points and draw system, and knowing the rules for party applications and group hunting.
Online Application System
Nonresidents must utilize the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s online application system to apply for licenses. Applicants should click the "Apply or Buy" button on the department's website, followed by "Apply for Licenses" to begin the process. They must log in or create an account to access the application form. It is crucial to have all necessary information ready, including personal details and the specific hunt codes for the desired game species.
Important Dates:
Non-resident Elk: Application deadline is January 31.
Other Big Game Species: Deadlines vary, typically in May.
Applicants have the option to modify or withdraw their submission within the stipulated time frame set by the department.
Preference Points and Draw System
Wyoming operates a preference point system for nonresident hunters, which influences the draw system for licenses. Nonresidents can accumulate points over time to improve their chances of being drawn in future applications.
Preference Point Option: Applicants may purchase preference points during specific periods, such as from July 1 to October 31 for species like elk, deer, and antelope.
Draw Results: For 2023, non-resident elk draw results will be posted on May 16 at 5 am.
The draw considers the applicant's accumulated preference points, with higher points increasing the likelihood of a successful draw.
Party Applications and Group Hunting
For those interested in group hunting, Wyoming allows for party applications. Each party member must submit an individual application, and the party must choose one member as the representative. This individual will apply on behalf of the entire group, ensuring all members are entered into the same draw pool. If the party is drawn, all members receive licenses; if the party is not drawn, no members receive licenses. Group size limits and regulations must be adhered to as specified by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
Species-Specific Licensing Information
Wyoming offers a diverse range of hunting licenses for various species to ensure proper wildlife management and conservation practices. Each species has specific licensing requirements and regulations that must be adhered to by hunters.
Elk, Deer, and Antelope
For hunters pursuing elk, deer, and antelope in Wyoming, separate licenses are issued for each species. The availability of these licenses is often determined through a limited quota system, which is based on annual population assessments to manage the harvest levels sustainably.
Elk: Non-residents can apply for either a full price license or reduced price cow/calf license.
Deer: There are non-resident full price deer licenses as well as limited quota doe/fawn licenses.
Antelope: Similar to deer, antelope licenses are available as full price or limited quota doe/fawn.
Bighorn Sheep and Bison
Bighorn sheep and bison licenses are highly coveted and are distributed through a limited quota draw system. These species are managed carefully due to their sensitive populations and habitats.
Bighorn Sheep: Non-residents must participate in a preference point system for a chance at a license.
Bison: Hunters must draw a license through a lottery and fulfill additional criteria to be eligible to hunt bison.
Moose and Mountain Goat
Moose and mountain goat hunting licenses are also issued through a highly competitive draw system. Due to their less abundant populations, a very limited number of licenses are available each year.
Moose: Successful applicants are chosen through a random lottery, which requires preference points to increase the odds of drawing a license.
Mountain Goat: Hunters need to accumulate preference points and apply for the limited number of licenses offered annually.
Understanding Wyoming's Hunting Regulations
Wyoming offers a diverse range of hunting opportunities, but navigating the regulations is crucial for both resident and non-resident hunters to ensure legal and ethical practices.
Conservation Stamp and Additional Endorsements
In Wyoming, all hunters are required to purchase a Conservation Stamp, with the exception of pioneer license holders. This stamp is a critical component of hunting licensing and is used to fund habitat protection efforts. Non-residents seeking to hunt big game must also secure species-specific licenses and endorsements, such as for elk or pronghorn.
Hunting on Public and Private Lands
Hunting in Wyoming is permitted on both public and private lands, but it's important to understand the distinct regulations governing each. Wyoming Game and Fish policies necessitate that hunters gain permission from landowners before hunting on private property. Public land, meanwhile, may have specific area restrictions that hunters need to adhere to, which can be verified through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
Game and Fish Department Policies
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department oversees and enforces hunting policies within the state, which include species-specific regulations such as those for antler collection or fur dealing. Their role extends to managing non-resident license allocations. Notably, for the year 2023 and onwards, a significant majority of licenses for prestigious game like bighorn sheep and moose are reserved for residents, leaving a limited quota for non-resident hunters.
Costs and Financial Considerations
The financial aspects of non-resident hunting licenses in Wyoming consist of various fees and refund policies. These costs are substantial, with particular attention on license fees, the state's refund mechanisms, and opportunities for additional contributions like the Super Tag Raffle.
License and Stamp Fees
Non-resident hunters in Wyoming must prepare for a range of fees associated with their hunting activities. License fees can vary widely depending on the game species:
Deer: Fees increased from $288 to $826.
Antelope: Fees rose from $288 to $874.
Elk Special Draw: The fee jumped from $576 to $1,258.
Other associated costs include application fees for different species and a stamp fee required for certain types of game.
Refunds and Financial Policies
In terms of financial policies, Wyoming manages a clear refund system for hunters unsuccessful in tag draws. Hunters must:
File applications and pay in advance.
Note that for unsuccessful draws, refunds are issued.
This means that financial planning for hunting in Wyoming requires understanding and anticipation of the refund timeline and process.
Super Tag Raffle and Additional Contributions
The Super Tag Raffle is an opportunity for hunters to contribute further while gaining a chance to secure desirable tags. The financial considerations include:
Purchase of raffle tickets: Costs vary depending on the number of tickets.
Potential to secure tags for multiple species: Provides a unique opportunity outside of the standard tag drawing and fees.
Revenue generated from the Super Tag Raffle supports conservation efforts and game management, illustrating how additional voluntary contributions benefit Wyoming's wildlife and habitats.
Tagging and Harvesting Rules
When hunting in Wyoming, non-resident hunters must strictly adhere to the rules for tagging and harvesting game. Specific regulations are set for tag opportunities and limitations, along with required permits and procedures for reporting a harvest and providing biological samples.
Tag Opportunities and Limitations
Non-resident hunters face limitations on the number of tags available compared to resident hunters. In the fall of 2023, 90% of tags for coveted species, commonly referred to as the "Big 5" which includes bighorn sheep, moose, mountain goat, and bison, are reserved for Wyoming residents. Only 10% are allocated to non-residents. Wyoming Game and Fish Department stipulates that these tags are distributed through a drawing system, ensuring fair opportunity within the set quotas.
Harvest Information Program (HIP) Permit
A non-resident hunter targeting migratory game birds is required to obtain a Harvest Information Program (HIP) permit. This system aids in the collection of data for the management and conservation of migratory bird populations. Compliance with the HIP requirement is mandatory prior to hunting.
Reporting and Biological Sampling
After a successful hunt, non-residents are required to report their harvest according to Wyoming regulations. A hunter may be selected to provide biological samples to aid in wildlife management and research. Detailed instructions and deadlines for reporting and biological sampling are provided by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department to ensure that hunters contribute to the essential data needed for sustainable hunting practices.
Additional Resources and Support
In navigating the process of obtaining a non-resident hunting license in Wyoming, there are several resources and tools provided by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department that can offer invaluable assistance and information. These tools can help in planning the hunt, staying informed about safety regulations, and provide easy access to department contacts.
Hunt Planner and Area Information
The Hunt Planner is a comprehensive tool designed to aid hunters in planning their outings. It provides detailed area information including maps, hunting area boundaries, and species data. Hunters can access this information at:
Website: Wyoming Game and Fish Department - Hunt Planner
Maps: Interactive maps for hunting areas
Educational Material and Safety Courses
For those looking for educational materials and safety courses, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department offers a range of resources to ensure hunters are well-prepared and knowledgeable:
Hunter Education: Courses available online and in-person for hunter safety
Educational Materials: Guides and FAQs on hunting regulations and best practices
Contacting Wyoming Game and Fish Department
Individuals seeking direct assistance or have specific inquiries can contact the Wyoming Game and Fish Department through the following channels:
Phone: A designated hotline for license and hunting inquiries
Email: Direct email support for detailed and documented queries
Offices: Regional office locations for in-person support
These resources equip hunters with the necessary information and support to responsibly and effectively prepare for their hunting experience in Wyoming.
Engagement and Updates
Staying informed is crucial for non-resident hunters interested in Wyoming's hunting licenses and regulations. To ensure current and prospective hunters are well-informed, Wyoming Game and Fish Department offers several ways to stay connected with the latest news, changes, and promotional events.
Email Newsletter Sign-Up
Non-resident hunters can subscribe to the email newsletter provided by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department to receive regular updates directly in their inboxes. This service ensures that subscribers are among the first to know about any fee changes, special draw deadlines, or changes in hunting regulations.
To sign up, individuals can:
Visit the official Wyoming Game and Fish Department website.
Locate the newsletter sign-up section.
Enter their email address and confirm their subscription.
Text Message Alerts and News
For timely notifications, the department offers a text message alert service. Subscribers to this service receive instant updates on their phones regarding critical deadlines, updates in license fee structures, and immediate news alerts that could affect their hunting plans.
Signing up for text alerts involves:
Texting a specific code or keyword to a designated number provided by the department.
Following the prompt to confirm the subscription.
Advertisement and Promotion
Wyoming Game and Fish Department utilizes various ads and promotional strategies to reach out to non-resident hunters. These efforts might include details on license availability, cost adjustments, and special tag raffle opportunities. They ensure that potential applicants have all the necessary information and encourage participation in Wyoming's unique hunting experiences.
Advertisement channels include:
Online platforms such as social media and hunting forums.
Outdoor and hunting magazines.
Local and national hunting shows and expos.
Promotional activities may feature:
Information on special draws and how to apply.
Periodic updates on quota availability for different game.
Any incentives or new opportunities available to non-resident hunters.
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