Luck is important. Especially for hunting in the USA, where the juiciest licenses and tags are only available on a lottery basis, so it’s the good old Fortune that often decides whether you’re going to pursue the beast of your dreams this year or not. But knowledge is no less important, particularly awareness of where and when you should apply for your license, permit and tag.
It’s becoming a tradition that our first blog of the new year covers the deadlines and general information about the limited draw and OTC tag options to hunt the most coveted game animals in the most popular Western states, so here are the 2024 deadlines you don’t want to miss. Click here for limited draw dates and other data for the year 2026.
Note that the below information is only a rough overview; be sure to double-check the dates etc. with the wildlife management service of the state where you want to hunt. Only there you will find the most complete and up-to-date information.
Arizona
- February 14, 2023 – deadline for elk and pronghorn
- June 13, 2023 – deadline for fall turkey, javelina, bison, deer, bighorn, sandhill crane
- October 10, 2023 – deadline for javelina, bear, turkey, and bison, Spring season 2025.
Arizona has three key application deadlines for its limited draw hunts. The first one, for elk and pronghorn antelope, is already underway, with the deadline falling on the second Tuesday of February, which in this year is February 6. The next application period, covering deer, bighorn sheep, sandhill crane, turkey, javelina, and bison, opens in May and ends on June 11, 2024 – again, the second Tuesday in June. Finally, the draw for javelina, bear, turkey, or bison hunts in the 2025 season will start in September, and the application deadline is the first Tuesday of October, which will be October 1 in 2024.
After the draw results are released, any remaining permit-tags will be up for sale. Additionally, even if you’re not planning to hunt in Arizona this year, participating in the draw can be beneficial for accumulating bonus points or purchasing preference points, something you’re going to need when you’re ready. Completing the Ethical Hunting Arizona online course is recommended to earn a lifetime bonus point. Remember, to apply for any of these draws, you must hold a valid Arizona hunting license. This is easy to get online, but factor in a couple of additional days if you haven’t created your free online Arizona hunting portal yet.
Finally, don’t miss the chance to enter the Arizona Big Game Super Raffle. This raffle offers a chance to harvest one animal from the selected category, using any legal hunting method, almost statewide, from August 15, 2024, to August 14, 2025. The deadline for ticket purchase is July 7, 2024. Those who opt for the all-species combo ticket also get a free entry to win a Swarovski optics package. Even if you don’t win, your participation supports the conservation of Arizona’s wilderness and wildlife.
Colorado
- February 6, 2024: Deadline for spring turkey applications.
- April 2, 2024: Deadline for primary draw applications for bear, deer, elk, moose, pronghorn, Rocky Mountain bighorn, desert bighorn, and mountain goat.
- July 2, 2024: Deadline for secondary draw applications for bear, deer, elk, and pronghorn.
- August 1, 2024: Over-the-counter and leftover licenses go on sale.
Double-check these dates in the end of February, when the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website will publish detailed information about the draw and updated hunting regulations for the 2024-25 season. While major changes are not anticipated, the draw process will continue to be conducted in two stages. This gives applicants who are unsuccessful in the first draw a second chance in the secondary draw. Do not forget to buy the qualifying hunting license before applying for the draw.
The start of OTC and leftover tag sales in early August is a crucial period, especially for those interested in Colorado’s extensive OTC deer and elk permit program. These permits, available for both antlered and antlerless animals across archery, and second and third rifle seasons, are highly sought after and can sell out rapidly. While some tags may be available throughout the season, their corresponding units may not have high success rates.
You may also want to check out the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website in July or August, because at that time the CPW will announce their new five-year plan, which will determine the big game hunting seasons for 2025-2029.
Idaho
- February 15, 2024: Deadline for spring bear applications.
- March 1, 2024: Deadline for spring turkey applications.
- April 30, 2024: Deadline for the first draw for moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat.
- May 31, 2024: Deadline for the first draw of the Super Combo.
- June 5, 2024: Deadline for the first draw for deer, elk, pronghorn, fall bear, fall turkey, and swan.
- June 25, 2024: Deadline for the second draw for moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat.
- August 10, 2024: Deadline for the second draw of the Super Combo.
- August 15, 2024: Deadline for the second draw for deer, elk, pronghorn, fall bear, and swan.
- December 1, 2024: Elk over-the-counter (OTC) tags for 2025 go on sale.
For hunters in Idaho, the controlled hunt application period is as follows: January 15 – February 15 for spring bear, and February 1 – March 1 for spring turkey. There are two draw periods for moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, pronghorn, deer, and elk in Idaho. The first draw takes place from April 1 – April 30 for moose, sheep, and goat, and from May 1 – June 5 for deer, elk, fall bear, pronghorn, swan, and fall turkey. The second draw occurs from June 15 – June 25 and from August 5 – August 15, respectively. Remember, applications not successful in the first draw do not automatically roll over to the second draw.
One of the highlights of hunting in Idaho is the abundance of non-resident elk tags available over-the-counter. They go on sale on December 1 of the previous year, that is, from December 1, 2023 for the 2024 hunting season, and on December 1 for the 2024 hunting season. The rush for those tags is so great, that in 2023 Idaho Fish and Game had to dedicate December 1 exclusively to this program, pausing the sales of all other licenses and tags, out of concern that the multitude of hunters’ queries may crash the website. This is another way of saying the best tags will be sold out on December 1, but you may want to check out if some are still available – and put a reminder for December 1, 2024 if you plan an Idaho elk hunt in 2025. Be prepared with your Idaho Fish & Game registration and have a clear idea of your preferred hunting unit, as the most desirable tags can sell out quickly.
One more exciting thing about Idaho is the Idaho Super Hunt Combo, a unique opportunity where winners can hunt a deer, elk, pronghorn, and moose, in addition to any other tags and licenses. There are two winners for the Super Hunt Combo and 32 individual species tags distributed across two draws, with deadlines on May 31 (first draw) and August 10 (second draw). A valid Idaho hunting license is required for the regular controlled hunt draw but not for the Super Hunt draw.
Montana
- April 1, 2024: Deadline for deer and elk applications.
- May 1, 2024: Deadline for moose, bison, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat applications.
- June 10, 2024: Deadline for pronghorn and “type B” deer and elk tags applications.
- September 30, 2024: Deadline to purchase bonus points.
Montana is known for offering a significant number of deer and elk tags to non-residents through a limited draw. Available options include General Big Game Combo licenses (for deer and elk), General Elk Combo, and General Deer Combo. The application period starts on March 1, and the drawing occurs two weeks after the deadline. “Type B” licenses are available in a second draw and, in some areas, over-the-counter.
For hunters who are unsuccessful in the draw, a preference point is awarded. Those not participating in the draw can purchase a bonus point between July 1 and September 30. Accumulating bonus points is beneficial for future hunting in Montana; statistics indicate that with two bonus points, the chances of drawing a tag are quite high.
Unlike some states, leftover tags and returned licenses in Montana are not available over-the-counter. Interested hunters should sign up for a special subscription list, with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks selecting candidates randomly from this list to offer available tags. Details and opening dates for entering the subscription will be provided on the MFWP website. Additionally, Montana has a landowner preference program for deer, allowing landowners to sponsor up to 2,000 non-resident hunts per year statewide.
Montana also offers opportunities to win a guided hunt in the Blackfeet Reservation. You may still have the time to enter the drawing for bison hunts No 4 and No 5, the lottery entry deadlines are February 1, and February 18, 2024, respectively. There is also a lottery for a guided moose hunt on the reservation, but the details on that one were unavailable at the time of writing; check the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks website periodically for more information.
New Mexico
- February 15, 2024: Deadline for bear and turkey applications.
- March 22, 2024: Deadline for applications for Barbary sheep, bighorn sheep, deer, elk, ibex, javelina, pronghorn, oryx, and private land deer hunts.
- March 27, 2024: Over-the-counter licenses go on sale.
Before applying for a draw hunt in New Mexico for species such as Barbary sheep, bighorn sheep, deer, elk, ibex, javelina, pronghorn, and oryx, it’s necessary to purchase a non-refundable hunting license. New Mexico encourages early applications for the 2024-2025 big game hunt draw. The draw results will be announced later in the season, with the specific date typically made available on the New Mexico Game and Fish website.
Over-the-counter type licenses will become available for purchase on March 27, 2024, often offered in a subsequent draw round. Applicants must indicate their interest in leftover tags when applying. Unlike some states, New Mexico does not use a bonus point system for unsuccessful applicants in previous years.
A lot of wildlife management departments throughout the country are moving towards digitalization. New Mexico has taken one step further than most in that direction, with their E-Tag. If you choose this option, you won’t receive a physical tag to put on the carcass of the animal you’ll be fortunate to harvest, but will be obliged to download a special app and enter the harvest information in it.
New Mexico operates a landowner preference program, for which both residents and non-residents are applicable. Some hunts are exclusively available on private land and require a ranch code for application. If you take this route, you first arrange the hunt with the landowner, who must have registered their property with New Mexico Game and Fish; they then give you the ranch code you enter with your application.
In New Mexico, 84% of big-game tags are reserved for state residents, 6% for non-residents, and 10% for hunters using the services of an outfitter. Consequently, draw chances for non-resident DIY hunts are not very high, especially in the more popular units, so non-residents are advised to be strategic in their unit choices. Draw odds within the outfitter pool are significantly higher, and may reach 100%, which is why if you’re considering an elk hunt in New Mexico, you may want to start with checking out the elk hunts in New Mexico available on our online marketplace.
Oregon
- February 10, 2024: Deadline for spring bear applications.
- May 15, 2024: Deadline for controlled hunts for deer, elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat.
- September 1, 2024: Deadline to purchase preference points.
The application period for spring bear hunts typically begins in early winter, with a deadline in early February. Results are usually available by the end of February. For controlled hunts including black-tailed deer, elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat, the application period generally opens in April, with a mid-May deadline. The draw results are typically announced by late June. Controlled hunts are a popular option in Oregon due to the management of game populations and hunter access.
In Oregon, hunters can accumulate preference points which increase their chances of drawing a tag in future years. Unsuccessful applicants or those who choose not to apply can purchase preference points until September 1. After the initial draw, any leftover tags are usually made available. These can offer additional opportunities for hunters who were unsuccessful in the main draw or who missed the application deadline.
It’s important for hunters in Oregon to stay informed about specific regulations, tag allocations, and any changes in hunting zones or season dates. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife provides detailed information through their website and annual regulations handbook. This resource is invaluable for planning a successful and legal hunting trip in Oregon. Remember, regulations can vary for different game species and hunting units, and keeping up-to-date with the latest information is crucial for a successful hunting season.
Utah
- February 28, 2024: Deadline for spring turkey permits.
- March 3, 2024: Deadline for applications for big game hunts, including deer, elk, pronghorn, moose, bison, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat.
- May 31, 2024: Deadline for applying for once-in-a-lifetime species hunts.
- June 17, 2024: Deadline for applying for the antlerless game, including deer, elk, and pronghorn.
Utah opens its application period for big game hunts, including deer, elk, pronghorn, moose, bison, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat, typically around the start of February. The deadline for these applications is usually in early March. For the 2024-25 season, the deadline falls on March 3, 2024. Draw results are generally announced by late April. For once-in-a-lifetime species, which in Utah include bison, moose, mountain goat, and bighorn sheep, the application deadline is May 31, 2024. The application period for antlerless game, including deer, elk, and pronghorn, closes on June 17, 2024.
Utah also has a system of bonus points, which can increase the chances of drawing a permit in future years. Hunters who are unsuccessful in a draw can accumulate these points to improve their odds in subsequent seasons. Leftover permits, if available, are typically offered after the draw results are announced. These permits can be a good option for hunters who missed the primary application deadlines or were unsuccessful in the draw.
For specific hunting areas, season dates, and detailed regulations, it is advisable to consult the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website or the latest edition of the Utah hunting guidebook. This resource provides comprehensive information and can assist hunters in planning their seasons effectively. Remember, regulations and dates can vary for different game species and hunting units, so it’s crucial to stay informed and prepared for the upcoming hunting season.
Wyoming
- January 31, 2024: Deadline for spring turkey applications and Wyoming Super Tag raffle entries.
- April 16, 2024: Deadline for bighorn sheep, moose, mountain goat, and bison applications.
- May 31, 2024: Deadline for deer, elk, antelope, fall turkey, and sandhill crane applications.
- October 31, 2024: Deadline to purchase preference points.
Wyoming‘s application period for antelope, deer, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, and spring turkey begins on January 2, 2024. The application period for bison hunts starts on March 1, 2024, and for fall turkey and sandhill crane on April 2, 2024. Draw results are anticipated to be released on February 4, 2024, for spring turkey; May 3, 2024, for bighorn sheep, moose, mountain goat, and bison; and June 14, 2024, for antelope, deer, and elk.
For leftover licenses for deer, elk, and antelope, a special draw will be held, with the application period running from June 18 to June 22, 2024. The results of this draw will be announced on June 5, 2024, and any remaining licenses after both rounds of the draw will go on sale on a first-come, first-served basis on July 11, 2024. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department advises that most leftover tags are for areas with limited access, such as private land, and urges hunters to ensure they can secure access before purchasing a license.
The purchase period for preference points, which significantly increase your odds of drawing a tag, runs from July 1 to October 31, 2024. It’s important to note that in Wyoming, preference points are not automatically awarded if you don’t draw a tag; you must actively apply for them. Failing to buy a preference point for two consecutive years results in the loss of all accumulated points.
The Wyoming Super Tag raffle, offered since 2013, includes chances to win tags for species such as bighorn sheep, Shiras moose, Rocky Mountain elk, mountain goat, mule or white-tailed deer, wild bison, pronghorn, mountain lion, gray wolf, and black bear. There’s also the Super Tag Trifecta, where the winner can select three of the nine animals. The deadline for the raffle is January 31, 2024, with winners announced on February 15, 2024. Super Tag hunting is limited to regular seasons and specific units for some species, but winning does not impact preference points or other applications and does not count towards once-in-a-lifetime species limitations.
