Wyoming Hunters Must Stop At Game And Fish Check Stations By Law

You went on a great hunt; you weren't successful, but it was still great to be out in the wild. You're driving home, and you see a Wyoming Game and Fish Department check station. You'd better swing in; if you don't, you're breaking the law.

If you've been hunting or fishing in Wyoming your whole life, you know you have to stop, but if it's your first time hunting here, you'd better have your bucks or ducks in a row and be ready to stop.

READ MORE: CWD Collection Areas Around Wyoming

We've talked many times on Wyoming Hookin' & Huntin' Outdoors about the importance of the ongoing research being done at Game and Fish. Biologists' jobs don't start and stop during hunting seasons. Data collection, number crunching, and fieldwork are all part of their jobs, and they happen year-round.

When you stop at a check station, you're contributing to the future of Wyoming's hunting seasons. Information that you offer, whether it's a CWD sample, what you've seen out in the field, or any suggestions you have, is all used to help manage the hunting seasons, learn about the health of the animals, and contribute to the future of the outdoors in Wyoming.

Also, when you stop at a check station, you'll be checked to make sure you're following the law. Make sure to have all of your permits, licenses, and information ready.

When stopping, WGFD suggests that you should be ready for:

• License check: Be ready to present your valid hunting licenses, conservation stamps, and any special management permits upon request.
• Biological data collection: If you have harvested an animal, staff will record the species, sex, age, and antler or horn measurements. Staff may also collect tooth samples to verify age.
• Disease sampling: Wildlife managers may collect lymph node or tissue samples when available to monitor for diseases like chronic wasting disease.
• Short interview: Game and Fish wants to hear about your hunt. Even if you return with an empty truck, be prepared for a brief conversation with department staff. They may ask you about the hunt area, any wildlife sightings, and your overall experience. This information helps managers evaluate the balance between herd health and hunting opportunities.