The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission (WGFC) has released new hunting regulations, now in effect. These updates expand the list of legal calibers and ammunition, clarify requirements for archery equipment, and officially legalize the .17 HMR rimfire cartridge for turkey hunting.
These changes aim to simplify regulations while maintaining Wyoming’s commitment to ethical and effective wildlife management.
Big Game & Trophy Game – Legal Calibers & Ammo
Moose, Bighorn Sheep, Elk, Mountain Goat, Black Bear
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Legal: Any centerfire firearm of at least .24 caliber
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Cartridge must be at least 2 inches in length
Deer, Antelope, Mountain Lion, Gray Wolf (trophy game areas)
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New Addition: .22 centerfire cartridges are now legal
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Must be .22 caliber, at least 2 inches long, and use a minimum 60-grain bullet
All Big & Trophy Game
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Any cartridge ≥ .35 caliber and ≥ 1.5 inches long
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Or any cartridge delivering 500 foot-pounds of impact at 100 yards
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Shotguns firing “00” or larger buckshot are now legal
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Muzzleloaders and handguns of at least .40 caliber, using 50 grains of black powder or equivalent, are approved
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All bullets must be lead or expanding-point, except buckshot or slugs from shotguns
Wild Turkey Hunting: .17 HMR Now Legal
The .17 HMR rimfire cartridge is now approved for turkey hunting in Wyoming. Previously legal weapons—shotguns, centerfire rifles, muzzleloaders, and .22 WMR rimfire cartridges—remain allowed.
Archery & Crossbow Equipment: Updated Language
Bow Draw Weight Requirements
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Deer, Antelope, Bighorn Sheep, Black Bear, Mountain Lion, Mountain Goat, Gray Wolf (trophy game areas): Minimum 40 lbs
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Moose & Elk: Minimum 50 lbs
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Removed: Language requiring bows to cast arrows 160 yards with varying grain weights
Crossbow Requirements
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Peak draw weight: At least 90 lbs
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Minimum bolt length: 16 inches
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Broadheads & expandables: Must have minimum 1-inch cutting width after impact
Now in Effect for Spring and Fall Hunting Seasons
These updates apply immediately to:
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Spring black bear and turkey seasons
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Fall big game and trophy game hunts
Be sure to review the full regulations on the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website before your hunt.
Plan Your Next Wyoming Hunt with SNS Outfitters
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