What the Nonresident Conservation Stamp Is and Who Needs It

Wyoming's Nonresident Conservation Stamp is a required purchase for anyone who does not live in Wyoming and wants to hunt or fish in the state. It is not a license itself — it is an additional stamp you buy alongside your hunting or fishing license. The stamp funds habitat conservation and wildlife management across Wyoming.

If you are a nonresident planning to hunt big game, upland game, waterfowl, or fish in Wyoming, you will need this stamp. Residents of Wyoming do not need to purchase it. The stamp is valid for one calendar year, from January 1 through December 31.

Key Takeaways

  • The Nonresident Conservation Stamp is required for all nonresidents hunting or fishing in Wyoming and must be purchased in addition to your license.
  • You can purchase the stamp through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website, by phone, or at authorized vendors across the state.
  • The stamp is valid for the calendar year in which you purchase it and covers all hunting and fishing activities during that period.
  • The cost varies depending on the type of license you hold, so check the current fee schedule before purchasing.

How to Purchase the Nonresident Conservation Stamp

You can buy the stamp through three main channels. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department website (wgfd.wyo.gov) allows you to purchase online and print your stamp immediately. This is the fastest option if you are buying before your trip.

You can also call the Wyoming Game and Fish Department directly during business hours to purchase over the phone. A third option is to buy the stamp at authorized vendors throughout Wyoming — sporting goods stores, outfitters, and some convenience stores near fishing and hunting areas typically carry them. If you are buying in person, bring your nonresident hunting or fishing license with you.

Cost and What It Covers

The cost of the Nonresident Conservation Stamp depends on which type of license you hold. The fee structure differs for hunting licenses, fishing licenses, and combination licenses. Check the current fee schedule on the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website before purchasing, as fees can change year to year.

The stamp covers all your hunting and fishing activities in Wyoming for that calendar year. You do not need separate stamps for different types of hunting or fishing — one stamp covers everything once you have the appropriate license for each activity.

When to Buy and How Long It Remains Valid

Purchase the stamp before you arrive in Wyoming if possible, especially if you are planning a trip during peak hunting or fishing season. Buying online ahead of time eliminates the risk of delays or unavailable inventory at vendors.

The stamp is valid from January 1 through December 31 of the year you purchase it. If you buy the stamp in November and plan to hunt in January of the following year, you will need to purchase a new stamp for that calendar year. Plan your purchase timing accordingly if your trip spans two calendar years.

Nonresidents and License Requirements

The Nonresident Conservation Stamp is separate from your hunting or fishing license. You must hold a valid nonresident license for the specific activity you plan to do — a hunting license for hunting, a fishing license for fishing, or a combination license for both. The stamp is an additional requirement on top of the license.

If you are unsure which license type you need, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website breaks down licenses by activity and season. Purchasing your license and stamp together through the same channel (online, by phone, or at a vendor) ensures you have everything required before you head out.

What Happens If You Fish or Hunt Without the Stamp

Fishing or hunting in Wyoming without the required Nonresident Conservation Stamp is a violation of state wildlife regulations. Game wardens conduct patrols and check licenses and stamps during the season. Violations can result in fines, confiscation of equipment, and potential loss of future hunting or fishing privileges in Wyoming.

Carry proof of your stamp with you at all times while hunting or fishing. If you purchased online, print your confirmation or have it available on your phone. If you received a physical stamp, keep it with your license.

Refunds and Replacements

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department does not issue refunds for the Nonresident Conservation Stamp once purchased. If you lose your stamp or confirmation, contact the department to request a replacement. Replacements are typically issued at no additional cost, but you will need to provide proof of your original purchase.

If you purchased online and lost your printed confirmation, log into your account on the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website to reprint it. If you bought in person and lost the physical stamp, bring your receipt to an authorized vendor or contact the department directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need the stamp if I only fish and not hunt?

Yes. The Nonresident Conservation Stamp is required for all nonresident hunting and fishing activities in Wyoming. You will need it whether you fish, hunt, or do both. It is a single stamp that covers all activities once purchased.

Can I buy the stamp after I arrive in Wyoming?

Yes, you can purchase the stamp at authorized vendors throughout the state, including sporting goods stores and outfitters. However, buying online before your trip is faster and guarantees availability. During peak season, some vendors may run low on inventory.

What if I am a nonresident but own property in Wyoming?

Property ownership does not change your status for licensing purposes. If you do not have a Wyoming residence address, you are classified as a nonresident and must purchase the Nonresident Conservation Stamp. Contact the Wyoming Game and Fish Department if you believe your residency status should be different.

Is the stamp the same as my hunting or fishing license?

No. The stamp and license are separate purchases. You need both a valid nonresident license for your activity and the Nonresident Conservation Stamp. The license permits you to hunt or fish; the stamp is an additional conservation requirement for nonresidents.

What if my trip gets cancelled after I buy the stamp?

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department does not issue refunds for the Nonresident Conservation Stamp. The stamp remains valid through December 31 of the year you purchased it, so you could use it on a future trip that year if your plans change.