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Heads Up for 2025: Limited draw application dates, OTC tags availability, and other essential facts on the most popular Western states

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Roosevelt elk

When it comes to hunting in the American West, luck is undeniably a factor. After all, many of the most sought-after tags are distributed through lottery systems. However, seasoned hunters know that preparation, timing, and strategy are equally vital to success. In the world of Western big-game hunting, knowledge truly is power.

Understanding where, when, and how to apply for the best hunting opportunities is essential, particularly for non-residents. With that in mind, here’s a comprehensive guide to the 2025 limited draw deadlines for the most popular Western states. Don’t let these dates pass you by—your next adventure depends on it.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided is based on available data as of December 2024 and might be incomplete, subject to change, or obsolete by the time you read it. Click here for limited draw dates and other data for the year 2026. Always refer to the official websites of the relevant states for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Arizona

Arizona offers hunters several opportunities to apply for limited draw hunts throughout the year. For the 2025 hunting seasons, the key application deadlines are:

Elk and Pronghorn Antelope

Deer, Bighorn Sheep, Sandhill Crane, Fall Turkey, Javelina, and Bison

Spring 2026 Hunts for Javelina, Bear, Turkey, and Bison

After the draw results are released, any remaining permit-tags will be available for purchase. Participating in these draws, even if you don’t plan to hunt in Arizona this year, can be advantageous for accumulating bonus points, which improve your chances in future draws. Completing the “Ethically 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. Licenses can be easily obtained online, but if you haven’t created your free online Arizona hunting portal yet, it’s advisable to do so a few days in advance.

Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity 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, 2025, to August 14, 2026. The deadline for ticket purchases is typically in early July; for 2025, it is expected to be around July 7, 2025. Participation in the raffle brings several additional benefits: both a chance to win awesome gear packages and the comfort of knowing that you’re contributing to the preservation of Arizona’s wilderness.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s official website and the Arizona Big Game Super Raffle website.

Colorado

At the time of writing, the exact dates for Colorado limited draw processes in 2025 have not been officially released. But based on previous years, we can anticipate the following schedule: 

Colorado Anticipated Application Deadlines for 2025

Spring Turkey:

Primary Draw Applications for Big Game (Bear, Deer, Elk, Moose, Pronghorn, Rocky Mountain Bighorn, Desert Bighorn, and Mountain Goat):

Secondary Draw Applications for Bear, Deer, Elk, and Pronghorn:

Over-the-Counter (OTC) and Leftover Licenses Sales:

These dates are projected based on the 2024 schedule and are subject to change. It’s crucial to verify the exact dates once the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) releases the official 2025 hunting regulations and application deadlines.

Colorado Application Process and Requirements:

Colorado Over-the-Counter and Leftover Licenses

Colorado has perhaps the most extensive OTC elk and deer permit program,  available for both antlered and antlerless animals across archery, and second and third rifle seasons. If you’re interested in getting one of those, beware that permits for the best units can be sold within hours if not minutes after the official start. Some tags may be available throughout the season, their corresponding units may not have high success rates. Act quick, and be sure to regularly check the Colorado Parks and Wildlife official website for the most current information on application deadlines, season dates, and regulations.

Idaho

Idaho is another state where there are ample opportunities to purchase elk and deer tags over-the-counter, but as you can expect the best options go to limited draw. That also concerns such coveted species as moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat. Here are the dates you don’t want to miss for 2025:

Idaho Controlled Hunt Application Periods for 2025:

Spring Bear:

Spring Turkey:

Moose, Bighorn Sheep, and Mountain Goat

Deer, Elk, Pronghorn, Fall Bear, Fall Turkey, and Swan:

Idaho Second Draw Application Periods:

Moose, Bighorn Sheep, and Mountain Goat:

Deer, Elk, Pronghorn, Fall Bear, and Swan:

Please note that applications unsuccessful in the first draw do not automatically roll over to the second draw; you must reapply during the second application period.

Idaho Deer and Elk Non-Resident Over-the-Counter (OTC) Tag Sales

Idaho Super Hunt Combo

The Idaho Super Hunt Combo offers 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.

A valid Idaho hunting license is required for the regular controlled hunt draw but not for the Super Hunt draw. Applications can be submitted online through the Idaho Fish and Game website, at any Fish and Game office, license vendor, or by telephone by calling (800) 554-8685. Regularly check the Idaho Fish and Game official website for the most current information on application deadlines, season dates, and regulations. Learn more about hunting in the “undiscovered gem of the West” from our blog.

Montana

Planning your hunting expeditions in Montana for 2025 requires attention to key application deadlines and an understanding of the state’s licensing system. Below is a comprehensive guide to assist you:

Montana Limited Draw Application Deadlines for 2025

Deer and Elk:

Moose, Bison, Bighorn Sheep, and Mountain Goat:

Pronghorn and “Type B” Deer and Elk Licenses:

Bonus Points Purchase:

Montana Nonresident Combination Licenses

Montana offers a significant number of deer and elk tags to nonresidents 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.

Montana Preference and Bonus Points

Montana Leftover Tags and Returned Licenses

In Montana, leftover tags and returned licenses are not available over the counter. Interested hunters should sign up for a special subscription list, with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) 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.

Montana Landowner Preference Program:

Montana has a landowner preference program for deer, allowing landowners to sponsor nonresident hunters. To register as a landowner sponsor for the 2025 license year, applications must be submitted by December 31, 2024. 

New Mexico

“With a unique blend of native and introduced game species, challenging terrain, and a well-regulated tag system, New Mexico offers a world-class hunting experience” – says our blog about hunting in the Land of Enchantment. Here is the essential information and key deadlines for planning a New Mexico hunt in 2025:

New Mexico Application Deadlines for 2025

Bear and Turkey:

Barbary Sheep, Bighorn Sheep, Deer, Elk, Ibex, Javelina, Pronghorn, Oryx, and Private Land Deer Hunts:

New Mexico Landowner Preference Program

New Mexico operates a landowner preference program applicable to both residents and non-residents. Some hunts are exclusively available on private land and require a ranch code for application. To participate, arrange the hunt with a registered landowner who will provide you with the necessary ranch code for your application.

Over-the-Counter Licenses in New Mexico

Over-the-counter licenses will become available for purchase on March 27, 2025. These licenses are often offered in a subsequent draw round. Applicants must indicate their interest in leftover tags when applying.

Tag Allocation, Draw Results, and E-Tags

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 limited, especially in popular units. Non-residents are advised to be strategic in their unit choices. Draw odds within the outfitter pool are significantly higher, sometimes reaching 100%. 

The draw results will be announced later in the season. Specific dates will be made available on the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish website.   Before applying for a draw hunt in New Mexico, don’t forget to purchase a non-refundable hunting license. This license can be obtained through the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Online Licensing System

New Mexico has implemented an E-Tag system, allowing hunters to tag their harvest electronically. If you choose this option, you won’t receive a physical tag but will be required to download a special app and enter the harvest information into it.

Nevada

Nevada might not have the sheer number of non-resident hunters seen in states like Colorado or Wyoming, but it has a reputation among those seeking trophy-quality big game. Nevada’s vast public lands are a significant draw for non-residents. With over 80% of the state managed by federal agencies like the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service, hunters have access to millions of acres of open hunting ground. 

Nevada Limited Draw Application Deadlines

Exact dates for 2025 have not been announced at the time of writing, but based on the past years the following can be expected: 

Big Game (Mule Deer, Elk, Pronghorn, Mountain Lion, and Bighorn Sheep):

Nevada’s bonus point system rewards repeat applicants, significantly increasing the odds of drawing a permit for each successive year you apply. Non-residents must purchase a hunting license to participate in the draw.

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Oregon

Between the Pacific Coast and the Rockies, Oregon has ample hunting opportunities, most of those, however, require success in limited draw process. Here’s what you need to know about the key deadlines and facts:

Oregon Limited Draw Application Deadlines for 2025:

Spring Bear:

Controlled Hunts for Deer, Elk, Pronghorn, Bighorn Sheep, and Mountain Goat:

Oregon Preference Points System:

In Oregon, unsuccessful applicants or those who choose not to apply can purchase preference points. Accumulating these points is beneficial for future hunting opportunities.

Leftover Tags in Oregon

After the initial draw, any leftover tags are usually made available. These offer additional opportunities for hunters who were unsuccessful in the main draw or missed the application deadline. Details on leftover tags can be found on the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) website.

Utah

With a variety of diverse landscapes from snow-covered peaks reaching out to over 13,000 feet to arid deserts, conifer woods, salt lakes and plateaus, not to mention 23 million acres of public land, Utah offers some of the most remarkable hunting experiences in the United States, claims our blog. The Rocky Mountain elk is the official state mammal in Utah, but the hunters who are eager to go after this animal, or pursue any other abundant big game in the Beehive State, don’t want to miss the following dates: 

Utah Limited Draw Application Deadlines for 2025

Big Game Hunts (Deer, Elk, Pronghorn, Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, Moose, Bison)

Antlerless Hunts

Spring Limited-Entry Turkey Hunts:

A valid Utah hunting or combination license is required to apply for any of the hunts. Licenses can be purchased online through the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) website or at authorized vendors. 

Applications can be submitted online during the specified application periods. Ensure you complete your application before the deadlines to be included in the drawings. A non-refundable application fee is required for each species you apply for. If you successfully draw a permit, additional permit fees will apply, varying by species and residency status.

Preference and Bonus Points in Utah

Wyoming

“Any hunter who dreams of wide-open spaces and herds of plentiful big game will find that their hunting dreams lead to Wyoming”, claims our old blog. Below is a comprehensive guide to assist you in planning your hunt in the state with “wilderness, limited draw, and bipolar weather”. 

Wyoming Limited Draw Application Deadlines for 2025

Spring Turkey Applications and Wyoming Super Tag Raffle Entries

Bighorn Sheep, Moose, Mountain Goat, and Bison Applications

Deer, Elk, Antelope, Fall Turkey, and Sandhill Crane Applications

Wyoming Preference Points System

Purchasing preference points between July 1 and October 31 can significantly enhance your chances in future draws. Note that preference points are not automatically awarded; you must actively purchase them. Failure to buy a preference point for two consecutive years results in the loss of all accumulated points.

Wyoming Leftover Licenses

Be aware that most leftover tags are for areas with limited access, such as private land. Ensure you can secure access before purchasing a license.

Wyoming Super Tag Raffle

The Wyoming Super Tag raffle offers hunters the chance to obtain licenses for species such as bighorn sheep, Shiras moose, Rocky Mountain elk, mountain goat, mule deer or white-tailed deer, wild bison, pronghorn, mountain lion, gray wolf, and black bear. The Super Tag Trifecta allows the winner to select three species. Winning does not impact preference points or other applications and does not count towards once-in-a-lifetime species limitations. 

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