Game & Fish to Hunters: Keep Fires in Check as Hunting Season Heats Up

With hunting season ramping up just as wildfire risk peaks, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department is warning hunters: play it safe with fire, or risk fines — and worse.

Wyoming is sitting at a National Preparedness Level 4, which means firefighting crews are stretched thin, temps are high, and rain has been scarce. Translation: it’s prime wildfire season. Fire bans and restrictions are already in place across big chunks of the state.

Game and Fish says hunters should avoid active burn areas entirely — both for their own safety and to keep crews free to fight flames instead of rescuing hunters. Fires that burn through fall don’t just damage habitat; they can also shut down hunting access for the season.

If you’re heading out, here’s what officials say you should keep in mind:

• Check before you burn: Always check with the Forest Service, BLM, or state lands for fire restrictions.
• Kill it dead: Don’t leave a campfire smoldering. Use lots of water and dirt, stir the ashes, and make sure it’s cold to the touch.
• Pick the right spot: Clear away brush and never build a fire under a tree. Roots can catch and smolder underground for days.
• Use common sense: Skip fires when it’s windy, use gallons of water — not just a bottle — to douse them, and watch those trailer chains to keep them from sparking.

Break the rules, and you’re looking at fines up to $5,000 for individuals, $10,000 for organizations, and even possible jail time. If your campfire turns into a wildfire, you’ll also be on the hook for firefighting costs.

Maps of hunt areas and wildfire activity are posted on the Game and Fish website, along with updates on current bans and restrictions.

“Wyoming doesn’t get a redo if hunters get careless,” officials said. “The stakes are just too high.”