Wyoming welcomes crossbows in archery seasons as long as they meet the state's specifications: at least 90 pounds draw weight, bolts at least 16 inches long and broadheads that cannot pass through a 7/8-inch ring when fully expanded. Hunters need the species license plus an archery hunting permit, and archers are exempt from fluorescent orange requirements.
Terrain & Hunting Landscape
Wyoming offers vast, open landscapes including the High Plains, sagebrush basins, and the dramatic peaks of the Rocky Mountains. The state is known for its high elevation and extreme weather.
Pronghorn antelope (Wyoming has more than any other state), elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and moose are the primary big game species.
Public Hunting Areas
Bridger-Teton National Forest, Shoshone National Forest, Thunder Basin National Grassland, and the Bighorn National Forest.
Crossbow & Bowhunting Culture
A culture of self-reliance and 'DIY' public land hunting is dominant. With nearly half the state being public land, there is a strong focus on western-style backcountry hunting.
Season Overview
Crossbows are legal in Wyoming archery seasons with a minimum 90-pound draw weight, bolts at least 16 inches long and broadheads that cannot pass through a 7/8-inch ring when expanded. A species license and archery permit are required for big and trophy game, archers are exempt from fluorescent orange, and firearms may not be used to take or finish an animal during archery seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a crossbow during Wyoming's archery season?
Yes. Crossbows are legal during Wyoming archery seasons when they meet the 90-pound minimum draw weight, 16-inch bolt and broadhead specifications, with a species license and archery permit.
Do I need a disability permit to use a crossbow in Wyoming?
No. Wyoming allows crossbows for all hunters in archery seasons without a disability permit, provided the equipment meets legal specifications.
What are Wyoming's crossbow equipment requirements?
Crossbows must have a minimum peak draw weight of 90 pounds and use bolts at least 16 inches long. Broadheads, fixed or expanding, must be designed so they cannot pass through a 7/8-inch solid ring when fully expanded.
Are there archery-only or crossbow zones in Wyoming?
Wyoming manages archery seasons by hunt area rather than crossbow zones, and crossbows are legal in archery seasons statewide when they meet specifications. Some limited-quota areas may have additional restrictions.
What licenses do I need to bowhunt in Wyoming?
You need a valid Wyoming hunting license for the species and area plus an archery hunting permit. Archery permits are not required for small game or game birds.
Do I need to wear fluorescent orange while crossbow hunting in Wyoming?
No. Hunters using crossbows during designated archery seasons are exempt from the fluorescent orange or pink clothing requirements that apply during firearm seasons.
Do non-residents need a guide to hunt in Wyoming?
Non-residents are not required to have a guide for most areas, but state law requires a resident guide or professional outfitter for hunting in designated wilderness areas.
How does the Wyoming preference point system work?
Hunters can purchase preference points annually to increase their odds of drawing high-demand, limited-quota tags for species like elk, moose, and bighorn sheep.