CASPER–As spring temperatures rise and anglers look to hit the North Platte River and area reservoirs, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department reminds all watercraft users that Aquatic Invasive Species requirements are in full effect. Whether launching a drift boat on Grey Reef or taking a motorboat out to Glendo, Alcova or Pathfinder, compliance is key to protecting Wyoming’s fisheries.

"Wyoming remains one of the few states in the country without a confirmed infestation of invasive zebra or quagga mussels," said Eric Hansen, Casper AIS specialist for the Game and Fish.  "That success is due to the diligence of our boaters. As we head into the busy spring season, we need everyone to remember that a few minutes at an inspection station can prevent a lifetime of damage to our waters and infrastructure."

Mandatory Inspections

Under Wyoming law, all watercraft transported into the state from March 1 through November 30 and all watercraft that launched on an infested water in the last 30 days regardless of the time of year, must undergo a mandatory inspection by an authorized inspector before launching. Furthermore, all boaters who encounter an open AIS check station on their route of travel must stop. This includes kayaks, canoes, and inflatable rafts.  Game and Fish has established border check stations on most major highways entering Wyoming.  Watercraft entering the state should consult the website for locations and hours of operation and plan their travels accordingly to facilitate an inspection.

2026 AIS Decals

All watercraft used on Wyoming waters are required to display a valid 2026 AIS decal.

• Residents: $10 for motorized; $5 for non-motorized.
• Non-residents: $30 for motorized; $15 for non-motorized.

• Note: Non-motorized inflatable watercraft 10 feet or less and stand-up paddleboards are exempt from the decal requirement but are still subject to mandatory inspections if entering from out-of-state.

   

Where to Get Inspected near Casper

Boaters in the Casper Region have several options for inspections:

• Casper Regional Office: 3030 Energy Lane. Inspections are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Dan Speas Fish Hatchery: Daily, by appointment only, at 307-473-8890.
• Local Check Stations: Seasonal check stations at high-traffic areas like Alcova Reservoir often operate on weekends. Boaters are encouraged to check the Game and Fish  website for real-time hours of operation and locations.

• Changes at Glendo: AIS check stations at Glendo will remain at the Bennett boat ramp through early May. Starting May 18, check stations will be at Whiskey Gulch boat ramp in addition to Bennett boat ramp. Construction on a permanent inspection station near the main fee booth location is expected to begin during the summer of 2026. 

   

The Clean, Drain, Dry Protocol

Game and Fish urges all boaters to follow three simple steps every time they leave the water:

1. CLEAN: Remove all plants, mud, and debris from the boat, trailer, and equipment.
2. DRAIN: Drain all water from the hull, livewell, and bilge. Leave the drain plug out during transport.

3. DRY: Allow the watercraft to dry completely before launching in a different body of water.

    

For more information on AIS, to purchase a decal, or to find an authorized inspection location near you, visit the Game and Fish AIS website.