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Thanks for checking in on this. There has been an important change to baitfish regulations that anglers should understand. Prior to last year, nearly all baitfish dealers sold only baitfish that were collected in the wild.  Beginning in 2015, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department began approving the shipment of fathead minnows from approved hatcheries to dealers throughout Wyoming. Some Wyoming live baitfish dealers are now selling these commercially produced fathead minnows.     

Anglers should be aware of two important differences between commercially produced fathead minnows and wild caught baitfish. First, the use of most commercially produced fathead minnows is not restricted to a specific region of the state. These minnows can be used anywhere in Wyoming where the use of live baitfish is permitted. Second, these commercially produced fatheads can be legally held for 30 days after purchase - 15 days longer than wild caught baitfish.

Anglers looking for baitfish that can be used in multiple locations throughout the state, should look for a dealer that sells commercially produced fathead minnows for statewide use...and hang on to their receipt. The receipt must accompany the baitfish as long as they are possessed alive. It will also shows the expiration date and indicate that the baitfish were commercially produced.  

The 2016 Fishing Regulations detail where live baitfish can be used, and you can also learn more from a previous Ask Game and Fish question on live baitfish.

David Zafft
Fisheries Management Coordinator

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