Elk Hunting Draw Deadlines, Fees, and Point Systems: A State-by-State Guide

Navigating Elk Hunting Draw Deadlines, Fees, and Wait Times

For elk hunters, the excitement of planning a hunt begins long before setting foot in the field. Securing the right tag in the right state can mean the difference between a memorable hunt and another year of waiting. With a mix of over-the-counter options, controlled hunts, and premium units that require years of planning, understanding state-specific draw deadlines, fees, and point systems are essential for success.

Whether you’re chasing the dream of a trophy bull in Utah or Arizona or looking for consistent hunting opportunities in states like Idaho or New Mexico, knowing how each system works can help you strategize. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about draw systems, from the financial commitment to how many years it may take to secure a coveted tag so you can make informed decisions and maximize your chances of success.

Arizona

Arizona is synonymous with trophy elk hunting, producing some of the largest bulls in the country. The state’s arid landscape and water-dependent elk behavior create a unique hunting challenge. While tags are tough to draw, Arizona’s hybrid draw system ensures that even first-time applicants have a chance at success.

• Application Deadline: February 6, 2024
• Application Fee: $15 per species
• Hunting License Fee: $160 for non-residents
• Elk Tag Fee: $665 for non-residents
• Point System: Arizona employs a bonus point system, with a hybrid draw reserving a small percentage of tags for applicants with no points.
• License Purchase to Apply/Buy Points: Yes. Applicants must purchase a non-resident hunting license ($160) to apply for tags or accrue points.
• Bonus Point Fee: Included in the $15 application fee per species.
• Tag Wait Times: Top units like Units 9, 10, and 23 often require 15–20 years to draw for non-residents. However, Arizona’s hybrid system allows a slim chance to draw, even as a first-time applicant.

Arizona Game and Fish Department: www.azgfd.com

Colorado

Colorado is one of the most popular elk-hunting destinations in the country. It offers the largest elk population in North America and diverse hunting opportunities. With over-the-counter (OTC) options and a preference point system for controlled hunts, Colorado is versatile for hunters of all experience levels. The state's accessible terrain and public lands make it a top pick for both resident and non-resident hunters.

• Application Deadline: April 2, 2024
• Application Fee: $9 per species
• Hunting License Fee: $420.23 for non-residents (plus a $10 habitat stamp)
• Elk Tag Fee: $760.99 for non-residents (bull/either sex); $516.63 for cow
• Point System: Colorado uses a preference point system for its limited licenses. Applicants with the highest points in each unit are awarded tags first, making it predictable for those who build points over time.
• License Purchase to Apply/Buy Points: Yes. Applicants must purchase a qualifying hunting license ($93.78 for non-residents) to apply or accumulate preference points.
• Preference Point Fee: $10 per point for non-residents (in addition to the application fee).
• Tag Wait Times: Colorado offers a wide range of limited-entry units, some requiring 10 or more points for non-residents. Units like 2, 10, or 201 are among the most coveted trophy areas, with wait times exceeding 20 years. However, many units can be drawn with fewer points. Colorado also provides OTC opportunities for bull elk, allowing hunters to get into the field annually while building points.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife: cpw.state.co.us

Idaho

Idaho offers some of the best wilderness hunting experiences, with over-the-counter opportunities and controlled hunts. Its rugged terrain and large elk herds attract hunters seeking a traditional backcountry adventure.

• Application Deadline: June 5, 2024
• Application Fee: $18 per species
• Hunting License Fee: $185 for non-residents
• Elk Tag Fee: $651.75 for non-residents
• Point System: Idaho does not use a point system, giving all applicants an equal chance in the controlled hunt draws.
• License Purchase to Apply/Buy Points: Yes. Applicants must purchase a non-resident hunting license ($185) to apply for controlled hunts.
• Tag Wait Times: Idaho’s lack of a point system means there are no long waits for tags, though high-demand controlled hunts remain competitive. Over-the-counter options make this state great for hunters looking for annual opportunities.

Idaho Department of Fish and Game: idfg.idaho.gov

Montana

Montana’s vast landscapes and healthy elk populations make it a top destination for hunters. Montana offers unparalleled variety and opportunity, from high mountain basins to rolling prairies.

• Application Deadline: April 1, 2024
• Application Fee: $5 per species
• Hunting License Fee: $10 for the Conservation License; $15 for the Base Hunting License
• Elk Tag Fee: $1048 for the Elk Combination License (includes fishing and upland game bird)
• Point System: Montana uses preference points for general licenses and bonus points for limited-entry hunts.
• License Purchase to Apply/Buy Points: Yes. Non-residents must purchase a Base Hunting License ($15) and a Conservation License ($10) to apply or accrue points.
• Point Fee: $25 per preference point; $25 per bonus point.
• Tag Wait Times: General elk combination licenses typically require 2–3 points, while limited-entry tags for trophy units like the Elkhorns or the Missouri River Breaks may take 10–15 years to draw.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: fwp.mt.gov

Nevada

Nevada’s vast desert terrain and rugged mountain ranges are home to some of the West’s most sought-after elk hunting opportunities. The state is known for producing large bulls, though the tag draw is highly competitive.

• Application Deadline: April 29, 2024
• Application Fee: $15 per species
• Hunting License Fee: $155 for non-residents
• Elk Tag Fee: $1,200 for non-residents
• Point System: Nevada uses a bonus point system, which slightly improves your odds each year but does not guarantee success.
• License Purchase to Apply/Buy Points: Yes. Applicants must purchase a non-resident hunting license ($155) to apply for tags or accrue points.
• Bonus Point Fee: $10 per species.
• Tag Wait Times: Nevada’s top units, such as Area 111 or Area 231, can take 10–20+ years to draw. The state’s trophy-quality elk and well-managed herds make it worth the wait for dedicated hunters.

Nevada Department of Wildlife: www.ndow.org

New Mexico

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 20, 2024
• Application Fee: $13 per species
• Hunting License Fee: $65 for non-residents
• Elk Tag Fee: $548 for 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: www.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, 2024
• 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: March 1, 2024
• Application Fee: $16 per species
• Hunting License Fee: $120 for non-residents
• Elk Tag Fee: $626 general tag, $1073 for 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. The challenging terrain and lower hunter density appeal to those seeking a quieter hunting experience.

• Application Deadline: May 22, 2024
• 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, 2024
• 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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What states require a hunting license to apply for elk tags or buy preference/bonus points?

• Answer: Most states require you to purchase a hunting license to apply for elk tags or accumulate preference/bonus points. Here’s a breakdown:
• Yes, license required: Arizona, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah
• No license required: Washington (you can apply or accrue bonus points without a license) and Wyoming (you can purchase preference points without a hunting license).

Purchasing a license can be an added expense, so consider the states you’re targeting carefully if you’re building points in multiple places.

2. Which state offers the best chances for first-time elk tag applicants?

• Answer: States without point systems, such as Idaho and New Mexico, offer equal odds to all applicants each year. While high-demand units in New Mexico are competitive, everyone has a fair chance regardless of prior applications. Idaho also provides over-the-counter (OTC) elk tags, making it an excellent choice for hunters eager to hit the field regularly while applying for controlled hunts.

3. How long does drawing a tag in trophy elk units like those in Arizona, Utah, or Nevada takes?

• Answer: Drawing a tag in trophy units can take 15–20 years or more in states like Arizona (Units 9, 10, 23), Utah (San Juan, Boulder), and Nevada (Areas 111, 231). These states use point systems that reward persistence, but the wait times for high-demand units are significant. For hunters targeting these units, it’s best to apply consistently while exploring opportunities in states with more accessible tags.

4. What is the difference between a preference point system and a bonus point system?

• Answer:
• Preference points: Hunters with the most points are awarded tags first. This system is used in states like Wyoming and Oregon, making it predictable if you have enough points for a specific hunt.
• Bonus points: Each point acts as an additional entry in the draw, increasing your chances but not guaranteeing a tag. States like Arizona, Utah, and Nevada use bonus point systems, allowing for randomness even if you have many points.

Understanding the difference can help you strategize which states to target based on your goals and timeline.

5. Which state is the most affordable for non-resident elk hunting applications?

• Answer: Oregon and Washington are among the most affordable for non-resident applications:
• Oregon: $8 per application and $8 per preference point (license required: $172).
• Washington: $7.10 per application; no hunting license is required to apply or build bonus points.