Game & Fish Info

2000-01 Fishing Regulations Available

CHEYENNE - They are bigger, hopefully better, but still don't guarantee a lunker.

The 2000-01 Wyoming Fishing Regulations, on an enlarged 8-by-11 inch format, are available for anglers at license agents and G&F offices.

"Compared to past years, regulation changes facing anglers the next two years are relatively few and minor," said Robert Pistono, assistant fish division chief.

Two of the changes may make the stringer heavier at two popular fisheries. The lake trout limit has been increased to four at Flaming Gorge Reservoir and the four-trout limit at Lake DeSmet now allows one fish over 20 inches, compared to one fish over 15 inches in previous years.

Pistono says the expanded booklet features larger drainage maps with numbers corresponding to the special regulations for the region and will be easier for anglers to use.

Anglers with questions about the new regulations are encouraged to call the nearest G&F regional office.

Mountain Lion Area 3 Closes

PINEDALE - Mountain lion hunters take note: Hunt area 3 closed Dec. 22.

The area closed because the female mortality quota of three mountain lions was reached.

Area 3 is the west slope of the Wind River Mountain Range, bordered by U.S. Highway 191 on the west and Wyoming Highway 28 on the south.

The hunt area will not reopen until next season, probably September 2000.

Mountain lion hunters are reminded to check the status of their hunt area by calling (800) 637-0809.

New Year, New Licenses

Anglers and waterfowl, small game and mountain lion hunters are reminded a 2000 license and conservation stamp are required before going afield in the new year. Lifetime license holders, who have not purchased a lifetime conservation stamp, also need a 2000 conservation stamp.

The federal migratory waterfowl stamp and "Harvest Information Program" permit are valid through June, and 2000 waterfowl hunters are reminded to keep the stamps with them.

Whether or not you venture afield in January, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department wishes you a prosperous and healthy new year.

Ask the Game & Fish

Q. Is crow hunting legal?

A. Yes. The Wyoming season is Nov. 1 - Feb. 28. Crows may only be taken by using firearms, archery and falconry. No license is required, and there is no bag limit.

Hunters are alerted crows closely resemble ravens, which are protected. Ravens have a wedge- or "V"-shaped tail and broader wings which prompts the birds to soar more and beat their wings less. Ravens are primarily found in the western half of Wyoming and rarely frequents agricultural areas like crows. Ravens also have a larger bill from top to bottom than crows, and unlike the crow's distinctive "caw," the raven utters coarse "croak-like" calls.