Picture this – Wyoming, with its breathtaking Rocky Mountains and endless open prairies. It’s like a dream come true for every outdoor enthusiast out there; hunters, adventurers, and the curious alike will find something special here. From majestic elks to speedy pronghorns, it’s an unmissable opportunity to make some unforgettable memories in nature’s playground.
In this comprehensive guide, we have covered all you need to know about hunting in Wyoming. We will go over the species information, where to find them, hunting seasons, and license information in great detail.
What Can You Hunt in Wyoming?
At Wyoming, you’ll find plenty of big game to hunt, from mule deer and elk to pronghorn antelope and bighorn sheep. Not only are the landscapes vast and perfect for an exciting trip outdoors – but they’re also home to mountain goats.
For bird hunters, there’s no shortage of options either: pheasants, grouse, ducks – even wild turkeys. Small game hunting is just as rewarding here with rabbits and squirrels aplenty. And if you’re up for something more thrilling? Black bears and mountain lions offer quite the adventure!
Deer
Hunting season in Wyoming is a thrilling experience, with its majestic landscape and diverse wildlife. If you’re looking for the best time to hunt deer in this stunning state, then fall is your go-to. With crisp air, vibrant colors of the changing foliage, and active game ready for winter preparation – it’s no wonder why many seasoned hunters flock here during this time.
Grand Teton National Park has some of the best spots to find mule deer and white-tailed deer roaming about its meadows and forests alike; making it an ideal location for both stalking prey or taking long-range shots at a distance.
Before heading out into the field though, make sure you have all necessary permits as well as proper gear such as camouflage clothing and reliable hunting equipment like rifles or bows so that you can be successful on your hunt.
Deer Season Wyoming
| Season | Dates | Hunting Method |
| General | 01 Sep – 30 Sep | Archery |
| General | 01 Nov – 30 Nov | Regular Firearm |
| Special | 01 Sep – 30 Sep | Archery |
| Youth | 01 Sep – 30 Sep | Archery |
| Youth | 01 Nov – 30 Nov | Regular Firearm |
| Quota | 01 Sep – 30 Nov | Limited Quota |
| Doe | 01 Sep – 31 Dec | Doe/Fawn |
Elk
The fall season is the perfect time to hunt elk in Wyoming – when they’re rutting and much more active than usual. With an estimated population of over 110,000, this state has some of the biggest herds of elk in North America. Whether you’re trekking through rugged mountains or wide open prairies, chances are you’ll find a great spot for hunting these majestic animals.
But don’t be fooled; hunting elk here requires skill and lots of patience. These intelligent creatures have sharp senses that make them difficult to track down – it takes a seasoned hunter with keen instincts to outsmart them and get within shooting range.
Yet this challenge only adds to the sense of accomplishment once your quarry is finally bagged. Experience nature like never before as you take on one of its most captivating creatures!
Elk Season WY
| Season | Dates |
| General Archery | 01 Sep – 30 Sep |
| Special Archery | 01 Sep – 30 Sep |
| Regular Firearm | 01 Oct – 30 Nov (differs by area) |
| Archery (Youth only) | 01 Sep – 30 Sep |
| Firearm (Youth only) | 01 Oct – 30 Nov (differs by area) |
| Limited Quota | 01 Sep – 31 Jan (differs by area) |
| Doe/Fawn | 15 Aug – 31 Jan (differs by area) |
Moose
For those looking for an exciting hunt, head to Bridger-Teton National Forest in Wyoming. This rugged terrain offers some of the most exhilarating and rewarding moose hunts in all of the United States.
Make sure you’re prepared with ample supplies for long hikes up steep mountainsides as you traverse through dense forests. With an estimated population of 3,000 individuals spread throughout the state, there’s no better place to spot these majestic creatures than here!
The massive animals can weigh up to 1,500 pounds and stand over six feet tall at their shoulders – truly impressive creatures with antlers and snouts that make them unmistakable from afar. To embark on any hunting adventure within its boundaries, however, requires obtaining a permit from Grand Teton National Park’s authorities first; but with such lush wilderness opportunities abound, it’ll be well worth it!
Moose Season
| Area | Archery Season | Regular Season |
| 1 | 01 Sep – 30 Sep | 01 Oct – 31 Oct |
| 2 | 01 Sep – 30 Sep | 01 Oct – 20 Nov |
| 3 | 01 Sep – 19 Sep | 20 Sep – 31 Oct |
| 5 | 01 Sep – 30 Sep | 01 Oct – 31 Oct |
| 6 | 01 Sep – 30 Sep | 01 Oct – 20 Nov |
| 9 | 01 Sep – 30 Sep | 01 Oct – 31 Oct |
| 10 | 01 Sep – 14 Sep | 15 Sep – 31 Oct |
| 11 | 01 Sep – 09 Sep | 10 Sep – 10 Nov |
| 16 | 01 Sep – 14 Sep | 15 Sep – 15 Nov |
| 17 | 01 Sep – 14 Sep | 15 Sep – 15 Nov |
| 18 | 01 Sep – 30 Sep | 01 Oct – 15 Nov |
| 20 | 01 Sep – 14 Sep | 15 Sep – 31 Oct |
Antelope
Hunting pronghorn antelope in the Equality State is an outdoor adventure like no other. With over 400,000 of these majestic creatures roaming the state’s prairies and mountains, it offers some of the best wildlife viewing around. But if you want to take home a trophy or two, get ready for a real hunting challenge.
In autumn when their coats are at their thickest and they’re in prime condition – this is the perfect time to go after these agile animals. Spot-and-stalk is one of the most popular methods used by hunters here – requiring patience, stealth, and precision marksmanship skills that all true outdoorsmen should possess.
For those looking for something extra special, however, archery can provide another incredible experience; taking down an antelope with your own bow takes skill but certainly pays off!
Antelope Pronghorn Season Wyoming
| Season | Dates |
| General Archery | 15 Aug – 15 Sep |
| Special Archery | 15 Aug – 15 Sep |
| Regular Firearm | 01 Oct – 31 Oct (differs by area) |
| Archery (Youth only) | 15 Aug – 15 Sep |
| Firearm (Youth only) | 01 Oct – 31 Oct (differs by area) |
| Limited Quota | 15 Aug – 30 Sep (differs by area) |
| Doe/Fawn | 15 Aug – 30 Sep (differs by area) |
Mountain Goat
For those looking to hunt mountain goats in Wyoming, there’s no better way to experience the power and beauty of these incredible animals. Before you head out for your adventure, it’s important that you have the necessary permits and licenses required by law.
Once you’re ready to go, patience is key – so scout the area beforehand for signs of goat activity such as droppings or tracks. When it comes time to take aim, be prepared: mountain goats are agile climbers who can easily traverse even steep cliffs with ease!
As always though when hunting wild game, safety must come first; never take unnecessary risks and treat these majestic creatures with respect.
Mountain Goat Season WY
| Area | Archery Season | Regular Season |
| 1 | 15 Aug – 31 Aug | 01 Sep – 31 Oct |
| 2 | 15 Aug – 31 Aug | 01 Sep – 31 Oct |
| 3 | 15 Aug – 31 Aug | 01 Sep – 31 Oct |
| 4 | 01 Aug – 14 Aug | 15 Aug – 15 Nov |
Bighorn Sheep
For anyone looking for the ultimate hunting experience, look no further than Wyoming – home to one of the largest populations of Bighorn Sheep in America. With over 5,000 sheep roaming its rugged mountains and valleys, it’s easy to see why these majestic creatures are a prized trophy amongst hunters.
Their impressive horns can reach up to three feet long and weigh an astonishing 30 pounds! Don’t let their size fool you though; they’re incredibly agile and elusive animals that take skillful hunting techniques if you want to bring one down.
The best time for your hunt is during fall when the rut is at its peak – this means more activity from males as they vie for dominance among each other. It also serves as prime season where their thick winter coats give them beautiful appeal making them even more desirable targets for any hunter-in-training!
But be aware that tags required in order to hunt Bighorn Sheep in Wyoming are highly sought after due to limited availability. However, don’t let this deter you because there still remain plenty of options such as through lottery systems or purchasing Governor Tags which make it worth the wait.
Bighorn Sheep Season in Wyoming
| Area | Archery Season | Regular Season |
| 1 | 15 Aug – 31 Aug | 01 Sep – 31 Oct |
| 2 | 15 Aug – 31 Aug | 01 Sep – 31 Oct |
| 3 | 15 Aug – 31 Aug | 01 Sep – 31 Oct |
| 5 | 01 Aug – 31 Aug | 15 Aug – 15 Oct |
| 7 | 01 Aug – 14 Aug | 15 Aug – 31 Oct |
Black Bear
At first glance, black bears are easily identifiable by their thick, glossy coats of jet black to lighter shades of brown. Showcasing a distinctive shoulder hump and small ears, the average male bear in Wyoming can weigh up to 400 pounds while females typically range from 150-250 pounds.
When it comes time for hunting season during the spring and fall months when they emerge from hibernation hungry for food, these creatures become vulnerable targets for hunters.
To those interested in taking on this thrilling challenge – you’ll need all necessary permits and licenses issued by the Wyoming Game & Fish Department as well as knowledge of different methods such as spot-and-stalk or baiting with hounds. But above all else, remember to always abide by ethical practices while pursuing your prey!
Black Bear Season Wyoming
| Area | Special Archery | General Season |
| 1, 2 | 01 May – 14 May | 15 May – 15 Jun, 01 Sep – 31 Oct |
| 3, 4 | 01 May – 14 May | 15 May – 15 Jun, 01 Sep – 31 Oct |
| 5, 6 | ——- | 01 May – 15 Jun, 15 Aug – 15 Nov |
| 7 | ——- | 15 Apr – 31 May, 01 Sep – 31 Oct |
| 8 | ——- | 15 Apr – 07 Jun, 01 Oct – 31 Oct |
| 9 | 15 Apr – 30 Apr, 01 Sep – 30 Sep | 01 May – 15 Jun, 01 Oct – 31 Oct |
| 10 | 15 Apr – 30 Apr, 01 Aug – 30 Sep | 01 May – 15 Jun, 01 Oct – 31 Oct |
| 11 | 15 Apr – 30 Apr, 15 Aug – 31 Aug | 01 May – 15 Jun, 01 Oct – 31 Oct |
| 12 | 15 Apr – 30 Apr, 01 Sep – 30 Sep | 01 May – 15 Jun, 01 Oct – 31 Oct |
| 13 | 15 Apr – 30 Apr | 01 May – 15 Jun, 01 Aug – 31 Aug, 01 Oct – 31 Oct |
| 14, 15, 16, 17, 30 | 15 Apr – 30 Apr, 15 Aug – 31 Aug | 01 May – 15 Jun, 01 Oct – 31 Oct |
| 18, 20, 21, 22, 24, 29 | 15 Apr – 30 Apr, 15 Aug – 31 Aug | 01 May – 15 Jun, 01 Oct – 31 Oct |
| 19 | 15 Apr – 30 Apr, 15 Aug – 31 Aug | 01 May – 15 Jun, 01 Oct – 15 Nov |
| 23 | 15 Apr – 30 Apr, 01 Aug – 14 Aug | 01 May – 15 Jun, 15 Aug – 31 Oct |
| 25, 26, 27 | 15 Apr – 30 Apr, 15 Aug – 31 Aug | 01 May – 15 Jun, 01 Sep – 31 Oct |
| 28 | 15 Apr – 30 Apr, 01 Aug – 14 Aug | 01 May – 15 Jun, 15 Aug – 31 Oct |
| 31 | 15 Apr – 30 Apr, 01 Aug – 14 Aug | 01 May – 15 Jun, 15 Aug – 31 Oct |
| 32 | 15 Apr – 30 Apr | 01 May – 15 Jun, 01 Aug – 15 Nov |
| 33 | ——- | 15 Apr – 31 May, 01 Sep – 31 Oct |
| 35 | ——- | 15 Apr – 15 Jun, 01 Aug – 31 Oct |
Wild Turkey
Hunting wild turkeys in Wyoming is a unique and thrilling experience. Thanks to successful conservation efforts, the turkey population has grown exponentially over the years, making them plentiful throughout the state. Whether you’re exploring rolling hills or dense forests, these birds can be found everywhere, offering an exciting challenge for hunters of all levels.
During spring season when mating takes place, it’s easy to locate male turkeys due to their loud gobbling calls from miles away. This makes it ideal for setting up blinds or using calling techniques such as clucking and yelping. However, the fall season requires more careful planning as they become much warier of predators relying on both sight and sound to detect danger.
Fall Turkey Season WY
| Season | Dates | Area |
| General | Sep 01 – Sep 30, Oct 01 – Dec 31 | Unit 1 |
| General | Sep 01 – Sep 30, Oct 01 – Dec 31 | Unit 2 |
| Archery | Sep 01 – Sep 30 | Unit 2 |
| General | Sep 01 – Dec 31 | Unit 3 |
| Archery | Sep 01 – Dec 31 | Unit 3 |
| General | Sep 01 – Sep 30, Oct 01 – Dec 31 | Unit 4 |
| General | Sep 01 – Sep 30, Oct 01 – Dec 31 | Unit 5 |
Spring Turkey Season WY
| Season | Dates | Area |
| General | Apr 20 – May 31 | Unit 1 |
| Archery | Apr 01 – May 31 | Unit 1 |
| General | Apr 20 – May 31 | Unit 2 |
| Archery | Apr 01 – Apr 19 | Unit 2 |
| General | Apr 01 – May 31 | Unit 3 |
| Archery | Apr 01 – May 31 | Unit 3 |
| General | Apr 20 – May 31 | Unit 4 |
| Archery | Apr 20 – May 31 | Unit 4 |
| General | Apr 20 – May 31 | Unit 5 |
Grizzly Bear Season
| Season | Dates |
| License Issuance List Hunt Areas (Units 1-6) | 15 Sep – 15 Nov |
| Limited Quota Hunt Areas (Units 7-8) | 01 Sep – 15 Nov |
Bison Season WY
| Season | Dates | Notes |
| Any Bison | 15 Aug – 31 Jan | Area 02 |
| Any Female/Calf | 15 Aug – 31 Jan | Area 02 |
Mountain Lion Season
| Zones | Dates |
| 1-5, 10-14, 16-19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28-30, 32 | 01 Sep – 31 Mar |
| 5 | 01 Apr – 30 Apr |
| 6 | 01 Sep – 30 Apr |
| 7-9, 15, 20, 22, 27, 31 | 01 Sep – 31 Aug |
| 24 | 01 Sep – 31 May |
Wolf Season
| Units | Dates |
| 1-11, 14 | 15 Sep – 31 Dec |
| 12 | 15 Oct -31 Dec |
| 13 | 15 Sep – 31 Mar |
Coyote Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Coyote | 01 Jan – 31 Dec | No Limit |
Partridge Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Cukar & Gray Partridge (Unit 1) | 15 Sep – 28 Feb | 5 per day |
Grouse Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Sage Grouse | 16 Sep – 30 Sep | 2 per day |
| Dusky, Ruffed & Sharp-tailed Grouse | 01 Sep – 31 Dec | 3 per day |
Pheasant Season
| Units | Dates | Bag Limit |
| 1 | 01 Nov – 31 Dec | 3 per day |
| 2 | 01 Nov – 03 Dec, 04 Dec – 31 Dec | 2 per day |
| 5 | 01 Nov – 31 Dec | 3 per day |
| 7 | 01 Nov – 31 Dec | 3 per day |
| 8 | 12 Oct – 31 Oct, 01 Nov – 17 Nov | 3 per day |
| 9 | 01 Nov – 31 Dec | 3 per day |
| 11 | 01 Nov – 31 Dec | 3 per day |
Rabbit Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Cottontail | 01 Sep – 31 Mar | 10 per day |
| Snowshoe Hare | 01 Sep – 31 Mar | 4 per day |
| Cottontail (Falconry Season) | 01 Sep – 01 Mar, 02 Mar -31 Aug | Varies by dates |
| Snowshoe Hare (Falconry Season) | 01 Sep – 01 Mar, 02 Mar -31 Aug | Varies by dates |
Squirrel Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Red, Gray & Fox Squirrel | 01 Sep – 31 Mar | 10 per day |
Bobcat Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Bobcat | 15 Nov – 01 Mar | No Limit |
Mink Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Mink | 01 Oct – 30 Apr | No Limit |
Muskrat Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Muskrat | 01 Oct – 30 Apr | No Limit |
Marten Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Marten | Unit 1: 01 Oct – 01 Mar
Unit 2: 01 Dec – 01 Mar |
No Limit |
Weasel Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Weasel | 01 Oct – 31 Mar | No Limit |
Badger Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Badger | 01 Jan – 31 Dec | No Limit |
Beaver Season
| Units | Dates | Bag Limit |
| 1 | 01 Oct – 30 Apr | No Limit |
| 408-414, 501, 502 | 01 Oct – 30 Apr | 25 |
Dove Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Mourning Dove | 01 Sep – 29 Nov | 15 per day |
Duck Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Pacific Flyway | 23 Sep – 05 Jan | 7 per day |
| Central Flyway Zone C1 | 30 Sep – 15 Oct, 04 Nov – 23 Jan | 6 per day |
| Central Flyway Zone C2 | 23 Sep – 03 Dec, 16 Dec – 09 Jan | 6 per day |
| Extended Zone C1 and C1A | 18 Oct – 25 Oct | 3 per day (aggregate) |
| Extended Zone C2 | 15 Sep – 22 Sep, 04 Dec – 06 Dec | 3 per day (aggregate) |
Coot & Merganser Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Pacific Flyway | 23 Sep – 05 Jan | Coot: 15 Merganser: 7 |
| Central Flyway Zone C1 | 30 Sep – 15 Oct, 04 Nov – 23 Jan | Coot: 15 Merganser: 6 |
| Central Flyway Zone C2 | 23 Sep – 03 Dec, 16 Dec – 09 Jan | Coot: 15 Merganser: 6 |
| Extended Zone C1 and C1A | 18 Oct – 25 Oct | 3 per day (aggregate) |
| Extended Zone C2 | 15 Sep – 22 Sep, 04 Dec – 06 Dec | 3 per day (aggregate) |
Goose Season
| Season | Dates | Zones |
| Early Canada Goose | Sep 01 – Sep 08 | Pacific Flyway |
| Dark Goose | Sep 23 – Dec 08 | Pacific Flyway |
| Dark Goose | Sep 30 – Oct 08 | Central Flyway – Zone C1 |
| Dark Goose | Sep 30 – Oct 11 | Central Flyway – Zone C1A |
| Dark Goose | Sep 23 – Dec 03 | Central Flyway – Zone C2 |
| Light Goose | Sep 23 – Dec 28 | Pacific Flyway |
| Light Goose | Sep 30 – Dec 31 | Central Flyway |
| Light Goose Conservation Order | Feb 19 – Apr 30 | Central Flyway |
Rail Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Sora & Virginia Rail | 01 Sep – 09 Nov | 25 per day |
Snipe Season
| Season | Dates | Bag Limit |
| Snipe | 01 Sep – 16 Dec | 8 per day |
Sandhill Crane Season
| Area | Dates | Bag Limit |
| 1 (Quota Permit Area 1-6, 8) | 01 Sep – 08 Sep | 1 per season |
| 2 | 01 Sep – 08 Sep | 1 per season |
| 3 | 01 Sep – 08 Sep | 1 per season |
| 4 | 30 Sep – 22 Oct | 1 per season |
| 5 | 01 Sep – 08 Sep | 1 per season |
| 6 | 16 Sep – 08 Oct | 1 per season |
| 8 | 01 Sep – 30 Sep | 1 per season |
| 7 (General Permit) | 09 Sep – 05 Nov | 3 per day |
Wyoming Hunting License Information
Hunting in Wyoming is a thrilling experience for all adventurers, no matter their age or residency. To be legally equipped to hunt within the state, you must acquire a valid hunting license – both residents and non-residents alike.
This can easily be done by visiting an authorized license-selling agent or through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s website with your personal information such as name, address, date of birth, and social security number (non-residents will additionally need proof of hunter education certification).
Wyoming offers various types of licenses that are tailored to the specific game being hunted – general elk licenses, deer licenses, etc., each having its own regulations and fees which can be found on the department’s webpage.
If you wish to pursue big game animals like elk or moose, however; then it requires additional paperwork including a special permit obtained from a limited quota drawing system along with paying an application fee alongside your hunting License.
It is essential that hunters familiarize themselves with bag limits and season dates for every species they plan on pursuing before heading out into the field.
Where Can You Hunt in Wyoming?
The Equality State has an incredible thirty million acres of public land, including national forests, wildlife refuges, and state parks. Whether you’re looking for a guided hunt or the freedom to explore on your own terms, these areas offer plenty of opportunity!
For those seeking a more luxurious experience, private ranches, and outfitters are available with experienced guides who know their way around the land like no other. Not only will they provide top-notch lodging and meals but also first-class guidance on hunting trips.
If you’d rather take control by yourself, then consider joining the Access Yes program which allows hunters access to private lands after getting permission from landowners. So if it’s privacy that you seek in order to get closer to nature – this is definitely worth considering.
Public Hunting Places in Wyoming
Bridger–Teton National Forest
With over 3.4 million acres of untouched wilderness, Bridger-Teton forest presents some of the best hunting opportunities in the US. Elk are a particularly popular game species here, with large herds and healthy populations roaming freely.
Hunting these grand animals through lush forests and taking home a trophy is an experience like no other – one that brings hunters from all around to this spot during elk season.
But it doesn’t end there; for those looking for something more difficult, mule deer, moose, bighorn sheep, and even black bears can be hunted too! Small game such as grouse, rabbits, and squirrels also thrive in abundance – providing plenty of action for your trigger finger every time you visit.
Bighorn National Forest
Bighorn National Forest is the perfect spot for any hunting enthusiast. With over a million acres of public land open to explore, you’ll be sure to find your ideal spot among its rugged mountains and deep canyons.
It’s here that you can pursue an abundance of game, such as elk and deer, bighorn sheep, moose, black bears, mountain lions, or even bald eagles. Plus with crystal-clear streams providing a picturesque backdrop throughout your adventure – it’s guaranteed to make all your hunts more memorable.
Thunder Basin National Grassland
Thunder Basin is a paradise for hunters of all levels, boasting over 550,000 acres of public land with diverse terrain and plentiful game species. From rolling hills to deep canyons, dense forests to open prairies – the area offers an array of challenging yet rewarding hunting experiences!
Mule deer, white-tailed deer, pronghorn antelope, and elk are just some of the wildlife that inhabit this beautiful grassland. Wild turkeys also make their home here!
When planning your hunt in Thunder Basin National Grassland, it’s important to familiarise yourself with local regulations set by the U.S. Forest Service; these rules ensure ethical hunting practices that will preserve the stunning landscape for future generations.
Those looking for extra guidance can book guided hunts from professional outfitters who provide expert knowledge as well as access to private lands not available otherwise.
It goes without saying that safety should always be the top priority when out on a hunt – so don’t forget your bright orange clothing during firearm seasons and stay aware at all times!
Shoshone National Forest
Shoshone National Forest is a wilderness paradise located in Wyoming. Spanning over 2.4 million acres, it offers an unforgettable hunting experience for those seeking adventure or a challenge. Elk, deer, moose, bighorn sheep, and other game species roam the land, making this national forest a popular destination for hunters from all around the country.
Whether you’re looking to take on rugged terrain in designated wilderness areas or exploit easier access in general forest areas; Shoshone has something to offer for all types of hunters. For those who crave an adrenaline rush – archery hunting is allowed throughout most parts of the forest during specific times of year; requiring stealth and sharpshooting skills as you track your target through rough terrain!
Private Hunting Places in Wyoming
With hunting in Wyoming comes the responsibility of understanding and following regulations. Before you embark on your next adventure, make sure to get a valid hunting license for the specific private hunting land you plan on exploring.
It’s also important to have an extensive knowledge of the state’s wildlife; from elk and deer to bison and pronghorn, there are multiple species that call this place home. Acquainting yourself with their behavior will give you a better chance at bagging game successfully.
Always remember to be respectful towards landowners – understand that being granted access is a privilege, not a right, so abide by all rules set out while leaving no trace behind once it’s time for departure.