Wyoming youth fishing licenses cost less and have simpler rules than adult licenses

Wyoming offers a youth fishing license for anglers under 14 years old. The license costs significantly less than an adult resident license and does not require a Conservation Stamp. A youth license lets you fish in Wyoming's public waters — rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs — under the same seasons and bag limits that apply to adults, with one key difference: you must fish under direct supervision of an adult who holds a valid Wyoming fishing license.

The supervision requirement is the main thing that separates a youth license from an adult one. You cannot fish alone with a youth license, even if you are 13 years old and experienced. An adult supervisor must be present and actively fishing or watching you fish. That adult does not need a separate license if they are only supervising — but if they want to fish themselves, they need their own license.

You can buy a youth license at any Wyoming Game and Fish regional office, at hundreds of vendors across the state (including sporting goods stores and convenience stores), or online through the Wyoming Game and Fish website. The license is valid for one calendar year, from January 1 through December 31.

Key Takeaways

  • A youth license in Wyoming is for anglers under 14 and costs less than half the price of an adult resident license.
  • You must fish under the direct supervision of an adult who holds a valid Wyoming fishing license.
  • You can purchase a youth license online, at Game and Fish offices, or at hundreds of retail vendors throughout the state.
  • A youth license does not require a Conservation Stamp and follows the same seasons and daily catch limits as adult licenses.
  • The license is valid for the calendar year in which you purchase it.

Who can get a youth license and what it costs

You are may be able to access for a youth license if you are under 14 years old. Wyoming does not require proof of residency for a youth license — both Wyoming residents and non-residents can purchase one at the same price. This makes it straightforward for visiting families to get their children licensed quickly.

The cost of a youth license is substantially lower than an adult resident license. As of the most recent rate schedule, a youth license costs roughly one-third the price of an adult annual license. The exact amount can change year to year, so confirm the current price when you purchase. No additional Conservation Stamp is required with a youth license.

Where to buy your youth license

You have three main routes to purchase a youth license. The fastest is online through the Wyoming Game and Fish website, where you can buy and print your license immediately. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and address. The online system processes the purchase in minutes.

If you prefer to buy in person, visit any of the five Wyoming Game and Fish regional offices: the main office in Cheyenne, or regional offices in Casper, Cody, Laramie, and Pinedale. Staff can answer questions about seasons and regulations while you purchase.

Hundreds of retail vendors across Wyoming also sell licenses, including sporting goods stores, convenience stores, and some grocery stores. Call ahead if you are unsure whether a specific store carries them. Vendors can sell you a license on the spot, though some may charge a small transaction fee.

Supervision rules and what they mean in practice

The core requirement is that you must fish under the direct supervision of an adult who holds a valid Wyoming fishing license. "Direct supervision" means the adult must be present and able to see you while you are fishing. The adult does not need to be standing directly next to you every second, but they cannot be out of sight or unable to respond if you need help.

The supervising adult must hold a current Wyoming fishing license. That license can be a resident license, non-resident license, or conservation license — any valid license works. If the adult is only supervising and not fishing themselves, they do not need a license. But if they want to fish at the same time, they must have their own license and follow all the same rules you do.

This rule exists because young anglers are still learning to handle fish safely, identify species correctly, and follow catch limits. The adult supervisor is responsible for making sure you stay within the daily limit and follow all other regulations.

Fishing seasons, bag limits, and regulations that apply to youth licenses

A youth license gives you access to the same fishing seasons and daily catch limits as adult anglers. Wyoming divides the state into different fishing regions, and each region has its own season dates and limits depending on the species. Trout seasons, for example, typically run year-round in many areas, but walleye and pike have specific opening and closing dates.

Daily bag limits — the number of fish you can keep per day — are the same whether you hold a youth license or an adult license. If the limit for cutthroat trout is 6 fish per day in a particular stream, that limit applies to you. You are responsible for knowing the rules for the water you plan to fish, and your supervising adult should help you understand them before you start.

Wyoming Game and Fish publishes a current fishing regulations guide that lists all seasons, limits, and special rules by region and species. You can download it free from their website or pick up a printed copy at any vendor or Game and Fish office. Read the section for your region before you go fishing.

What to bring when you go fishing

Carry your youth license with you whenever you fish. Wyoming law requires you to have it in your possession — not just at home. If a Game and Fish officer stops to check, you must be able to show your license. Keep it in a waterproof pocket or bag so it does not get damaged.

Bring the current fishing regulations guide for the region where you plan to fish. This is not legally required, but it is the best way to know the exact seasons and limits before you cast a line. Your supervising adult should also have a copy or know the rules by heart.

Bring your fishing rod, tackle, and any other gear you need. Wyoming has no special equipment rules for youth anglers — you can use the same rods, reels, and bait as adults.

When your youth license expires and how to renew

A youth license is valid for the calendar year in which you purchase it. If you buy a license on June 15, it remains valid through December 31 of that year. On January 1, you need a new license to continue fishing.

Renewing is as simple as purchasing a new license. You can buy online, at a Game and Fish office, or at a retail vendor using the same process as your first purchase. There is no waiting period or special renewal form — just buy a new license when the old one expires.

If you turn 14 during the year, your youth license remains valid through the end of that calendar year. Once you turn 14, you can continue fishing with your youth license until December 31, but starting January 1 of the following year, you will need an adult license if you want to fish without supervision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish alone with a youth license?

No. Wyoming law requires that you fish under the direct supervision of an adult who holds a valid fishing license. The adult must be present and able to see you while you are fishing. Once you turn 14, you can fish alone with an adult license.

Does my supervising adult need their own fishing license?

Only if they want to fish themselves. If they are only supervising you, they do not need a license. But if they plan to fish at the same time, they must have a current Wyoming fishing license and follow all the same rules you do.

Can I use a youth license if I am visiting Wyoming from another state?

Yes. Wyoming youth licenses are available to both residents and non-residents at the same price. You do not need to prove residency. Buy your license online, at a Game and Fish office, or at a retail vendor before you start fishing.

What happens if I turn 14 during the year?

Your youth license remains valid through the end of that calendar year. Starting January 1 of the following year, you will need an adult license if you want to fish. You can purchase an adult license anytime after you turn 14.

Where can I find out the fishing seasons and bag limits for a specific lake or stream?

Download the free Wyoming fishing regulations guide from the Game and Fish website or pick up a printed copy at any vendor or Game and Fish office. The guide lists all seasons, daily limits, and special rules by region and species. Call your local Game and Fish office if you have questions about a specific water.