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Hunting in Wyoming
Wyoming Hunting at Glance
Wyoming is a big, high plateau broken by many wild, remote mountain ranges. Elk, mule deer, grizzlies, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep inhabit the high country of mountain ranges such as the Wind River and Teton ranges in the west, the Big Horns in the north central, and the Snowy Range in the south. The sweeping high plains of Wyoming are covered with cattle and cowboys, and the productive rangeland is shared with impressive herds of pronghorn antelope, deer, and elk.
Quota systems are used in Wyoming to regulate hunting. This implies that for each hunting area, there is a fixed number of licenses available, and hunters must apply for them well ahead of time. In Wyoming, you must have a conservation stamp and a certificate of completion for a hunter-safety course to hunt. In addition, big-game hunters in Wyoming are required to wear at least one item of fluorescent orange clothing while hunting.
When hunting in wild areas, nonresident big game hunters are obligated by Wyoming law to work with a professional outfitter or local guide.
Wyoming ranks #2 in the nation for hunting license per capita and has a strong hunting culture with over 23.4% of the population classified as registered hunters.
Key Insights
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- Big-game hunters in Wyoming are required to wear fluorescent orange clothing.
- Nonresident big-game hunters in Wyoming must work with a professional outfitter or local guide.
- Wyoming has a strong hunting culture, with 23.4% of the population classified as registered hunters.
- Small game hunting in Wyoming includes rabbits, pheasants, quail, chukar, and gray partridge.
- Big game hunting in Wyoming includes elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, pronghorn, and mountain goats.
Table of Contents
Hunters (Based on Hunting Licenses)
| Population: | 576,851 |
|---|---|
| Hunters | 134,983 |
| Hunter % | 23.40% |
| Hunters Rank | 2 |
Land Types (Acres)
| Acres | % | Rank | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | 62,147,200 | ||
| Huntable Public | 31,403,000 | 50.53% | 6 |
| Private Land | 26,273,570 | 42.28% | 45 |
| Tribal Land | 1,909,400 | 3.07% | 7 |
Wyoming ranks #45 for the percentage of private land vs total acres and number 7 in terms of acres of tribal land.
Wyoming Hunting Seasons & Requirements
For the most accurate information on Wyoming Hunting Seasons, along with the state’s requirements for tag and bag limits, it’s a good idea to check with the Wyoming DNR. We’ve provided their contact information below, along with links to helpful resources, including licensing.
Wyoming DNR
5400 Bishop Blvd
Cheyenne, WY 82006
- (307) 777-4600
Popular Game to Hunt in Wyoming
The most common type of hunting in Wyoming is deer hunting. Other popular types of hunting include elk hunting, bird hunting, and rabbit hunting. Wyoming is home to many different types of wildlife, so there are plenty of opportunities for hunters to find the perfect game.
Small Game Hunting in Wyoming
In Wyoming, small game hunting is a popular pastime. The most popular species to hunt are rabbits, pheasants, quail, chukar, and gray partridge. Each of these animals offers a unique challenge, and hunters can enjoy a variety of different types of terrain when pursuing them. In addition to providing an enjoyable outdoor activity, small game hunting also helps to control populations of these animals. By regulating the number of animals in an area, hunters can help to ensure that ecosystems remain healthy and balanced. As a result, small game hunting plays an important role in the state of Wyoming.
Big Game Hunting in Wyoming
When it comes to big game hunting, Wyoming is a true paradise. The state is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, pronghorn, and mountain goats. While all of these animals are popular game animals, each species offers its own unique challenges. Elk are the largest of the big game animals in Wyoming, and they are also the most popular to hunt. Mule deer are smaller than elk, but they can be more difficult to track and stalk. White-tailed deer are the smallest of the big game animals in Wyoming, but they are also the most widespread. Pronghorn are fast and elusive, making them a challenging target for hunters. Mountain goats are notoriously difficult to hunt, but the reward is a truly majestic trophy. No matter what your preference, there is sure to be a big game animal that suits your fancy in Wyoming.
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Where are the Best Areas to Hunt in Wyoming
Wyoming offers great hunting opportunities across the state, both on public and private land. We’ve included some of the best areas for public hunting below and as we have access we’ll be adding more private land too.
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We’re working with landowners all across Wyoming to provide private land access for more activities. Add your information below to stay up to date.
Popular Public Hunting Land in Wyoming
The most popular public lands to hunt in the state are Medicine Bow National Forest, Shoshone National Forest, Bridger-Teton National Forest, Bighorn National Forest, and Yellowstone National Park. Each of these areas offers unique opportunities for hunters, and all five are managed by the US Forest Service. Medicine Bow National Forest is located in south-central Wyoming and is known for its elk hunting. Shoshone National Forest, meanwhile, is located in northwest Wyoming and is home to a variety of game animals, including bighorn sheep, mule deer, and white-tailed deer. Bridger-Teton National Forest, located in western Wyoming, is also a popular destination for hunters, offering ample opportunities to bag elk, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and white-tailed deer. Bighorn National Forest, located in northeast Wyoming, is known for its plentiful population of bighorn sheep. Lastly, Yellowstone National Park, which spans Wyoming as well as Montana and Idaho, is home to a variety of game animals, including bison, elk, moose, and white-tailed deer.
1. Medicine Bow National Forest
2. Shoshone National Forest
3. Bridger-Teton National Forest
4. Bighorn National Forest
5. Yellowstone National Park
Hunting Private Land in Wyoming
Since the majority of Wyoming is private land getting access for hunting can be very appealing. When you hunt private land, it’s not only less crowded, the animals also tend to be less skittish and this means you’ll have a better day out in the field. Traditionally, accessing private land for hunting has been complicated and expensive. You either needed to join a club, hire a guide, or start knocking on doors.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying this for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts of all types. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some options great below.