Yellowstone National Park

Yes, but it is a Yellowstone NPS fishing permit, not a state fishing license. Wyoming (or any other state) fishing licenses are not valid and are not required inside the park. Anglers 16 and older must carry a valid Yellowstone fishing permit.

There are three permit options: a 3-day permit for $40, a 7-day permit for $55, and a season-long permit for $75. Anglers 15 and younger may fish free under an adult with a valid permit, or obtain a separate free permit in person at the park.

Yes. Permits are purchased online at recreation.gov, which issues a digital activity pass. You can present it on your phone or a printed copy when rangers check your permit. Save your permit confirmation before heading into areas with limited cell service.

Permits are available online at recreation.gov (search Yellowstone National Park Fishing Permit). Printed copies are also available at visitor centers and ranger stations inside the park. Purchase in advance — online is the most convenient option for planning your trip.

The standard fishing season runs from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through October 31 each year. Some waterways — including portions of the Firehole River, Gibbon River, and Gardner River — have extended seasons starting May 1. Hours are sunrise to sunset daily.

All native fish — Yellowstone cutthroat trout, mountain whitefish, and Arctic grayling — are catch-and-release only. Barbless hooks are required throughout the park. No organic or inorganic bait is allowed; only lead-free artificial lures and flies. Nonnative species like lake trout must be killed and removed in most areas to support native fish recovery.