Wyoming’s bow hunting season offers archers a unique opportunity to pursue deer, elk, and antelope in the scenic landscapes of the Cowboy State. Typically running from late August through September, the archery season precedes rifle hunts and allows bowhunters to experience the wilderness during the early fall rut. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department sets specific dates, regulations, and quotas each year to manage wildlife populations and ensure sustainable hunting practices.

Bowhunters in Wyoming must adhere to equipment requirements and obtain proper licensing before heading afield. Crossbows are permitted during archery season if they meet certain specifications, including a minimum 90-pound draw weight. The state offers various license types, including general and limited quota tags, with some areas requiring special permission or additional applications.

Wyoming’s archery seasons provide extended hunting opportunities compared to firearms seasons. Organizations like Bowhunters of Wyoming advocate for bowhunters’ interests, working with state agencies to maintain and potentially expand archery hunting access. These efforts have contributed to longer seasons and earlier start dates for some species, enhancing the bowhunting experience in the state.

Understanding Bow Hunting Seasons in Wyoming

Wyoming offers diverse bow hunting opportunities with specific seasons for various game species. Hunters must obtain proper licenses and permits while adhering to regulations set by the Wyoming Game & Fish Department.

General Season Overviews

Archery seasons in Wyoming typically precede rifle seasons, giving bowhunters early access to game. Most areas require an archery permit in addition to a big game license for preseason hunting. Type 9 archery-only licenses are an exception to this rule.

Bow hunters must use equipment meeting state requirements. For big game, bows must have a minimum draw weight of 40 pounds for most species. Crossbows are allowed during archery season if they meet specific criteria, including a 90-pound draw weight and 16-inch bolt length.

Seasons vary by species and hunt area. Hunters should carefully review the current regulations for exact dates and any special provisions in their chosen hunting zones.

Species-Specific Seasons

Big game archery seasons often start in late August or early September. Elk, deer, and pronghorn antelope are popular targets for Wyoming bow hunters.

• Elk: Archery season typically begins in September
• Deer: Bowhunting often starts in late August or early September
• Pronghorn: Archery season may open in mid-August in some areas

Trophy game like bighorn sheep and mountain goats have limited seasons. These hunts are highly regulated with specific dates and area restrictions.

Small game archery seasons are generally more extended. Species like rabbits and squirrels may be hunted year-round in some areas, while game birds have defined seasons.

Hunters must check current regulations for exact dates, as seasons can change annually based on wildlife management needs.

Wyoming Archery Equipment Regulations

Wyoming has specific regulations for archery equipment used in bow hunting. These rules cover approved gear and restricted items to ensure fair chase and ethical harvesting of game animals.

Approved Archery Equipment

Bow hunters in Wyoming can use longbows, recurve bows, and compound bows. Crossbows are also permitted during general archery seasons. The minimum draw weight for bows is 40 pounds. Arrows must be at least 24 inches long and equipped with broadheads.

Mechanical broadheads are allowed, provided they have at least two cutting edges and a cutting diameter of at least 7/8 inch. Fixed-blade broadheads must also meet the 7/8 inch diameter requirement.

Lighted nocks are legal for use on arrows in Wyoming. These can help hunters track their shots and recover game more easily.

Restricted Archery Gear

Explosive arrowheads and poisoned arrows are strictly prohibited in Wyoming. Electronic devices attached to bows or arrows, except for lighted nocks, are not allowed.

Crossbows must have a minimum draw weight of 90 pounds and a minimum bolt (arrow) length of 16 inches. They cannot have a scope with more than 1x magnification during archery-only seasons.

Bows equipped with magnifying or light-gathering sights are not permitted during special archery seasons. Range-finding sights are also prohibited on bows during these periods.

The use of drones for scouting or hunting is illegal in Wyoming, as is the use of any electronic communication devices to aid in the harvest of wildlife.

Licenses and Permits

Wyoming bowhunters need specific licenses and permits to participate in archery seasons. These documents authorize hunting activities and regulate game management.

Obtaining Bowhunting Licenses

Bowhunters in Wyoming must purchase a general hunting license and an archery license. The archery license costs $72 and allows hunting with bow and arrow during designated archery seasons. Residents and non-residents can buy licenses online through the Wyoming Game & Fish Department website or at authorized vendors.

Big game licenses are required in addition to the archery license. These include separate permits for elk, deer, and antelope. Hunters must apply for limited quota licenses by specific deadlines, typically in May or June for the fall hunting season.

Conservation stamps are mandatory for most hunters. These $21 stamps support wildlife conservation efforts in Wyoming.

Type 9 Licenses and Their Use

Type 9 licenses are special permits for bowhunting in Wyoming. They allow archery hunting for antelope in specific areas before the regular firearm season begins. These licenses are limited in number and distributed through a draw system.

Type 9 licenses grant access to prime hunting areas during the early archery season, typically starting in mid-August. Hunters with Type 9 licenses can pursue antelope with bow and arrow for several weeks before rifle hunters enter the field.

Applications for Type 9 licenses must be submitted by the deadline, usually in late May or early June. Successful applicants are notified in July, allowing time to prepare for the August season opening.

Seasonal Wildlife Targets

Wyoming offers diverse bow hunting opportunities throughout the year. Hunters can pursue big game animals during specific seasons, while small game and upland birds have their own designated timeframes.

Big Game Hunting Times

Bow hunters in Wyoming can target various big game species. Deer season typically runs from early September to late December. Antelope hunting begins in mid-August and continues until late November.

Elk seasons vary by area but generally span from early September to late December. Moose and bighorn sheep hunts are more limited, with seasons usually occurring in September and October.

Black bear archery seasons often take place in spring and fall. Bison hunts are highly regulated and have limited quotas. Wolf hunting is permitted in certain areas with specific regulations.

Small Game and Upland Bird Seasons

Small game and upland bird hunting provides additional opportunities for bow hunters. Grouse seasons typically start in September and extend into December or January, depending on the species.

Turkey hunting has both spring and fall seasons. Spring hunts usually occur in April and May, while fall hunts take place in October and November.

Pheasant season generally runs from October to December. Rabbit hunting is often permitted year-round or with extended seasons.

Specific dates and regulations for each species may vary by hunt area and year. Hunters should always consult the latest Wyoming Game and Fish Department regulations for precise information.

Bag Limits and Hunting Regulations

Wyoming’s hunting regulations establish specific bag limits and rules for bow hunting. These guidelines ensure sustainable wildlife management and fair hunting practices.

Species-Specific Regulations

Bighorn sheep and mountain goat hunting in Wyoming have distinct seasons and area restrictions. The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission approves annual hunting season regulations and quotas. Elk, deer, and antelope have special archery seasons outlined in Section 3 of the official regulations.

For bison hunting, separate rules apply. Wolf hunting falls under Chapter 47 of the Commission regulations. Sandhill cranes and pheasants have season limits, which define the maximum number of birds that can be legally harvested during the entire hunting period.

Understanding Bag Limits

Bag limits vary by species in Wyoming. These limits specify the number of animals a hunter can legally take during a season. For example, there are different limits for elk, bison, and geese.

Hunters must familiarize themselves with the current bag limits before their trip. These limits can change annually based on wildlife population assessments. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department website provides up-to-date information on bag limits for each species.

It’s crucial to adhere to these limits to maintain healthy wildlife populations. Violations can result in penalties and loss of hunting privileges.

Hunting Education and Safety

Wyoming prioritizes hunter education and safety to ensure responsible and ethical hunting practices. Proper training and precautions are essential for a successful and secure bow hunting experience.

Bowhunter Education Requirements

While Wyoming does not mandate a specific bowhunter education course, all hunters born after January 1, 1966 must complete a general Hunter Education Course before purchasing a hunting license. This course covers essential topics including:

• Wyoming hunting laws and regulations
• Wildlife identification and classification
• Firearm safety basics

To pass, students must score 80% or higher on a 50-question multiple-choice test and demonstrate proper firearm handling. Some classes may offer optional live fire practice at a range.

Bowhunters should familiarize themselves with archery-specific regulations and techniques, even though a separate bowhunter education course is not required in Wyoming.

Safety Tips for the Field

When bow hunting in Wyoming, following these safety guidelines is crucial:

• Wear fluorescent orange or pink clothing for visibility
• Always identify your target before shooting
• Use proper tree stand safety equipment and techniques
• Carry a first aid kit and emergency communication device
• Be aware of weather conditions and dress appropriately

Hunters should inspect their equipment regularly, ensuring bows are properly maintained and arrows are in good condition. Practice shooting from various positions and distances to improve accuracy and reduce the risk of wounding animals.

When using blinds or tree stands, secure them properly and remove them after the season ends. Stay alert for other hunters and wildlife in the area, maintaining situational awareness at all times.

Wyoming’s Hunting Areas and Public Lands

Wyoming offers diverse hunting opportunities across its varied terrain. The state is divided into specific hunt areas and provides access to public lands for hunters to pursue their quarry.

Navigating Hunt Area Descriptions

Wyoming’s Game and Fish Department designates specific hunt areas for deer and other game. These areas are categorized as either limited quota or general. Limited quota areas have a set number of licenses available for specific hunt areas. Hunters can obtain full-price “any” or “antlered” deer licenses (Type 0, 1, 2, or 9) for these zones. Type 3 licenses are valid only for white-tailed deer and do not permit mule deer hunting.

General areas have fewer restrictions on license numbers. The department provides detailed hunt area maps and descriptions to help hunters identify boundaries and regulations. These resources are crucial for planning hunts and ensuring compliance with local rules.

Accessing Public Land for Hunting

Wyoming boasts extensive public lands open to hunting. The Greater Yellowstone ecosystem is a prime hunting destination, home to North America’s largest elk herds and diverse wildlife. This area offers opportunities to hunt elk, bison, and other big game species.

Walk-In Areas provide additional hunting access. These are private or state lands where the Wyoming Game and Fish Department has leased hunting privileges for public use. Hunters must follow specific rules when using Walk-In Areas to maintain good relationships with landowners.

Public land hunters should be aware that some areas may be challenging to access or have high competition for permits. It’s advisable to research and plan ahead, especially for popular hunting spots.

Special Considerations for Wyoming Hunting

Wyoming’s diverse wildlife and hunting opportunities require careful attention to regulations and unique considerations. Hunters must navigate conservation efforts for trophy game animals and explore alternative hunting methods allowed in the state.

Trophy Game Animals and Conservation

Wyoming classifies grizzly bears, gray wolves, and mountain lions as trophy game animals. These species are managed differently from other big game due to their conservation status. Hunting of grizzly bears is currently prohibited. Gray wolf hunting is allowed in specific areas with strict quotas and regulations. Mountain lion seasons vary by hunt area.

Hunters must complete a mandatory education course before pursuing trophy game animals. This ensures understanding of conservation efforts and ethical hunting practices. Proper identification is crucial, as mistaking protected species can result in severe penalties.

Alternative Hunting Methods

Wyoming offers diverse hunting experiences beyond traditional firearms. Archery seasons provide extended opportunities for bow hunters. Special archery permits are required in most areas unless holding a Type 9 archery-only license.

Falconry is a permitted hunting method for certain game birds and small game. Licensed falconers can use trained raptors during designated seasons. Trapping is allowed for furbearers and predators, with specific regulations on trap types and check intervals.

These alternative methods often have different season dates and regulations. Hunters must carefully review current rules for their chosen method and target species.