Anglers reminded of new fishing regulations
by Wyoming Game & Fish
April 1, 2015
The warmer weather of the past few weeks has effectively removed the ice from most waters in the state and anglers in increasing numbers are taking advantage of the good fishing that is usually available once waters open up.
With that increase in fishing activity, the Game and Fish is reminding anglers of the new fishing regulations that went into effect beginning in 2015. These changes came about because of action by the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission last fall and went through a series of public meetings.
Of interest to anglers and live baitfish dealers is the change that allows transport of live baitfish into the state from approved commercial hatcheries. The regulation includes new requirements specific to live baitfish importation. The new regulation will allow those holding a commercial hatchery license or a live baitfish dealer license to import fathead minnows from Game and Fish approved commercial sources outside the State of Wyoming.
"This regulation was changed specifically to improve the live baitfish supply for those anglers that prefer to use live baitfish," said Game and Fish fisheries chief, Mark Fowden. "We are confident the safeguards we have put in place by only allowing baitfish to be imported from secure sources will make it easier for anglers to get baitfish and still prevent introduction of unwanted species into Wyoming waters."
Other changes of note reflect a change in state law allowing the use of corn for bait and the use of artificial lighting devices while fishing. The regulation will continue to prohibit the use of artificial light when spear gunning for game fish.
Of interest to bass anglers is the liberalization of the size limit regulation for bass on several southeastern Wyoming waters. Festo Lake and Hawk Springs Reservoir have had the bass size limit removed completely. On Grayrocks Reservoir, the 15-inch minimum size limit has been removed. Anglers can now keep three (3) bass but only one can be over 12 inches in length.
The new fishing regulations booklet listing all changes is now on the Game and Fish website wgfd.wyo.gov. Printed copies are available at license selling agents. The new changes are highlighted throughout the booklet.
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