New Mexico’s diverse terrain and healthy elk populations make it an attractive option for hunters. The state’s lack of a point system offers equal odds to all applicants.
- Application Deadline: March 19, 2025
- Application Fee: $13 per species
- Hunting License Fee: $65 for non-residents
- Elk Tag Fee: $548 (Standard); $773 (Quality/High Demand) for non-residents
- Point System: New Mexico does not use a point system, making every applicant’s odds equal.
- License Purchase to Apply/Buy Points: Yes. Applicants must purchase a non-resident hunting license ($65) to apply for tags.
- Tag Wait Times: High-demand units like Unit 16 and Unit 17 can still be difficult to draw without a point system but provide opportunities for hunters who don’t want to wait decades.
- New Mexico Department of Game and Fish: wildlife.state.nm.us
Oregon
Oregon offers incredible diversity in elk hunting opportunities, ranging from the lush rainforests of the west to the arid high desert regions of the east. Roosevelt and Rocky Mountain elk thrive here, giving hunters various environments to explore.
- Application Deadline: May 15, 2025
- Application Fee: $8 per species
- Hunting License Fee: $172 for non-residents
- Elk Tag Fee: $588 for non-residents
- Point System: Oregon uses a preference point system, awarding tags to applicants with the highest point totals.
- License Purchase to Apply/Buy Points: Yes. Applicants must purchase a non-resident hunting license ($172) to apply for tags or accrue points.
- Preference Point Fee: $8 per point.
- Tag Wait Times: Premium tags in Oregon, particularly in units like Wenaha or Mount Emily, can take 20+ years to draw and possibly never. However, many controlled hunts have much shorter wait times, making it a more accessible option for hunters willing to compromise on trophy quality.
- Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife: www.dfw.state.or.us
Utah
Utah is a premier destination for trophy-class bull elk, with units consistently producing bulls scoring 350+ inches. Limited-entry hunts in Utah are highly competitive but offer some of the best hunting experiences in the West.
- Application Deadline: April 24, 2025
- Application Fee: $16 per species
- Hunting License Fee: $120 for non-residents
- Elk Tag Fee: $626 (General); $1,073 (Limited Entry) for non-residents
- Point System: Utah uses a dual system with bonus points for limited-entry hunts and preference points for general-season tags.
- License Purchase to Apply/Buy Points: Yes. Applicants must purchase a non-resident hunting license ($72) to apply for tags or accrue points.
- Bonus Point Fee: $10 per point.
- Tag Wait Times: Limited-entry units like the San Juan or Boulder units often take 15–20+ years to draw, making Utah a long-term investment for trophy hunters.
- Utah Division of Wildlife Resources: wildlife.utah.gov
Washington
Washington offers a blend of rugged mountain ranges, forested lowlands, and coastal areas, making it a unique destination for elk hunting. Hunters can pursue two subspecies of elk: Roosevelt elk in the west and Rocky Mountain elk in the east.
- Application Deadline: May 22, 2025
- Application Fee: $7.10 per species
- Hunting License Fee: $497 for non-residents
- Point System: Washington uses a bonus point system, where each unsuccessful application increases your chances in future draws.
- License Purchase to Apply/Buy Points: No. Applicants do not need to purchase a hunting license to apply or accrue points.
- Bonus Point Fee: Included in the application fee.
- Tag Wait Times: Washington’s point system rewards persistence, but high-demand tags can take 5–10 years to draw, especially for controlled hunts in trophy units.
- Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife: wdfw.wa.gov
Wyoming
Wyoming consistently ranks as one of the best states for elk hunting. Known for its large herds, high hunter success rates, and breathtaking landscapes, Wyoming attracts hunters from across the country.
- Application Deadline: January 31, 2025
- Application Fee: $15 per species
- Hunting License Fee: $12.50 for the Conservation Stamp
- Elk Tag Fee: $707 for non-residents
- Point System: Wyoming uses a preference point system, awarding most tags to applicants with the highest points.
- License Purchase to Apply/Buy Points: No. Applicants can purchase preference points without buying a hunting license.
- Preference Point Fee: $52 for non-residents.
- Tag Wait Times: General elk tags for non-residents require 4–7 points, while trophy units often demand 10–15 points or more.
- Wyoming Game and Fish Department: wgfd.wyo.gov
Final Thoughts
Elk hunting is as much about preparation and strategy as it is about the thrill of the hunt. Understanding the intricacies of draw deadlines, fees, point systems, and wait times is a critical first step toward planning a successful hunt. States like Arizona, Utah, and Nevada require years of patience and consistent applications to draw their coveted tags, offering once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for trophy-class bulls. Meanwhile, states like Idaho and New Mexico provide annual chances through random draws, appealing to those eager to get into the field sooner.
Balancing long-term investments in high-demand units with more immediate opportunities is key to maximizing your time and resources. Over-the-counter options in states like Idaho or Colorado can keep you hunting regularly while you build points elsewhere. By diversifying your applications, researching units, and staying informed about regulations, you can set yourself up for success year after year.
Whether chasing a massive bull in a trophy unit or looking for a chance to experience the backcountry, every elk hunt is an adventure worth pursuing. The rewards go beyond the harvest, offering unmatched experiences in the wild and memories that last a lifetime. With thoughtful planning and persistence, your next elk hunt could be the one that makes all the preparation worthwhile.
