CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission approved changes to the 2026 wild bison hunting season in Hunt Area 2 during its meeting this week.

Two license types will be offered this season. Thirty Type 1 (any bison) licenses; and 70 Type 4 (cow/calf) licenses. Limited permits for the National Elk Refuge might be available from Jan. 2 through 31 via the Jackson Regional Office.

Hunt areas for bison according to WGFD. Image: Screenshot

Hunt areas vary depending on the species, and can be explored on the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) website using their Hunt Planner tool.

The WGFD press release warns hunters about difficult and highly unpredictable conditions in the area, where most bison remain in Grand Teton National Park and access to huntable animals can be limited. Migration timing, deep snow, and remote terrain all affect success rates.

Other important notes from the WGFD:

  • Drawing a Type 1 license is considered a once-in-a-lifetime draw, regardless of harvest success. 
  • If an applicant receives a Type 4 license, regardless of harvest success, they must wait five years before applying for another Type 4 license. 

Applicants have until April 30 to apply, change or withdraw their applications for the 2026 season.

Hannah is a Buckrail Staff Reporter and freelance web developer and designer who has called Jackson home since 2015. When she’s not outside, you can probably find her eating a good meal, playing cribbage, or at one of the local yoga studios. She’s interested in what makes this community tick, both from the individual and collective perspective.