CHEYENNE - The Wyoming Game and Fish Commissioners discussed season setting during their April meeting in Riverton. 

During his presentation of recommendations to the Commission, Game and Fish Deputy Chief of Wildlife Justin Binfet noted that balancing a variety of public feedback with the data and needs to meet herd objectives requires careful planning and consideration. He added that the Department works to provide the public with opportunities for feedback through public meetings and online comments.

“It’s always a delicate dance that we have to do,” Binfet said. “We actively seek and appreciate the public input and strive to make the changes we feel are reasonable and lie within management decisions.”

Following discussion and public comment, the following seasons were approved by the Commission:

• Chapter 2 General Hunting Regulations were adopted as proposed.
• Chapter 5 Antelope Hunting Seasons were adopted as proposed.
• Chapter 6 Mule Deer Hunting Seasons were adopted with modifications to some season dates and retaining antler point restrictions in some hunt areas e.
• Chapter 7 Elk Hunting Seasons were adopted as proposed.
• Chapter 8 Moose Hunting Seasons were adopted as proposed.
• Chapter 9 Big Horn Sheep and Mountain Goat Hunting Seasons were adopted as proposed.
• Chapter 11 Upland Game Bird and Small Game Hunting Seasons were adopted as proposed.
• Chapter 14 Migratory Game Bird Hunting Seasons and Light Goose Conservation Order were adopted as proposed.
• Chapter 15 Wild Bison Recreational Hunting Seasons were adopted as proposed.
• Chapter 20 Wild Turkey Hunting Seasons were adopted as proposed.

Factors across hunt areas and herds can vary. Overall health, population growth and trends, habitat conditions, and drought forecasts can all determine the overall health and long-term outlook of the herd.

Game and Fish Deputy Director Eric Wiltanger emphasized the importance of the agency work and public feedback that go into each year’s season setting process.

“I want to thank all of the Department staff who were involved in this process, as well as the public and the Commissioners for their input,” Wiltanger said. “This is one of the most important tasks of this agency, and it is important that our seasons reflect the hard work and feedback that has been provided.”

On Tuesday, Martin Hicks, Deputy Chief of the Wildlife Division, also provided the Commission an update on the habitat outlook following 2025-2026 winter conditions in Wyoming. Martin said that while above-average temperatures and lower-than-average snowfall provided higher survival rates initially, the current drought outlook could ultimately result in higher mortality rates later this year through loss of habitat and resources for herds.

“As we go through our season setting changes, it is important to note that the ongoing climate conditions in Wyoming have had a significant impact on herd populations, more so than our harvest numbers,” Hicks said.

Wildfire activity has also been a concern this year, Hicks said.  As of March of 2026, there were 160 wildfires affecting 11,900 acres, and 10 counties are currently under fire restrictions. Wildfire and its impact on the landscape remain a major concern for agencies throughout the state, and can have a significant impact on herd conditions.

On Tuesday, the Commission also recognized Game and Fish employees for their service to the State of Wyoming.  

The following employees were recognized:

• Matt Lentsh for 35 years of service
• Brian Parker for 20 years of service
• Bobby Compton for 20 years of service
• Steve Gale for 20 years of service
• Jon Desonier for his award as the Shikar Safari Officer of the Year.

The Commission’s annual retreat will be held in Upton on June 25. The annual Sportsman’s Conservation Forum being held June 26 in Gillette. Tickets for the Forum are available for sale through Wyoming Game and Fish.