Wyoming’s wide open spaces attract hunters from across the state and beyond. To ensure a smooth and lawful outing, every hunter should double‑check that they are carrying the required documents and safety items before leaving home. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) provides clear guidelines that protect both the public and the wildlife.

Licenses and Stamps

All hunters must have a current Wyoming hunting license. The type of license depends on the game pursued:

• Big‑game hunters need the specific license for the species they intend to harvest.
• Upland‑bird, waterfowl, and small‑game hunters must also carry their license while in the field.

In addition, a conservation stamp is required for any hunting or fishing activity. The stamp must be on your person, whether you are on land or on the water.

Proof of Hunter Education

Anyone born after January 1, 1966, must present proof of completion of a hunter‑education course. If you completed the course in Wyoming, the certificate number is printed on your license. If the number is missing or you do not have a card, you can request a replacement from the WGFD.

Hunters who completed the course in another state need a physical copy of that state’s certificate. If you cannot locate the document, contact the issuing state’s wildlife agency for a duplicate.

Temporary Education Exception

Wyoming offers a Hunter Education Temporary Exception program for those who could not attend a formal course. The program allows a qualified mentor to supervise a mentee under close guidance. Requirements include:

• The mentee must be at least 12 years old; those under 18 need parental or guardian permission.
• The exception is valid for one full year.
• The mentee must carry the special authorization certificate at all times.
• The mentor must be a family member or friend, at least 18 years old, with a valid hunter‑education certificate, a current hunting license, and an authorization sheet. The mentor must supervise the mentee throughout the hunt.

Safety Clothing

Wyoming law requires all big‑game hunters—except archery hunters during archery season—to wear fluorescent orange or pink clothing while in the field. This high‑visibility gear helps prevent accidental shootings.

Game‑bird and small‑game hunters are only mandated to wear orange or pink when hunting in Wyoming Game and Fish Department Wildlife Habitat Management Areas or on Bureau of Reclamation Withdrawal lands that border or include Glendo State Park. Even where not required, many hunters choose to wear bright colors for added safety.

Final Checklist

• Current hunting license for the specific species.
• Conservation stamp attached to your person.
• Proof of hunter‑education completion (license imprint, card, or replacement).
• If applicable, temporary exception certificate and mentor’s supervision plan.
• Fluorescent orange or pink clothing for visibility.

Following these steps helps you stay legal, safe, and respectful of Wyoming’s treasured wildlife resources. If you capture a memorable harvest, the station invites you to share a photo for possible online highlight—just send a .jpg to the provided link.

Original reporting: K2 Radio (Casper) — read the source article.