It’s time to plan your big game hunt, because hunting season will be here before you know it. Even if you are hunting with a guided outfitter, you will need to obtain the appropriate permits. Some game permits are very limited in number so it’s recommend you apply for your permit as early as possible. It doesn’t matter when you obtain your permit. You’ll be able to use it at any time during the game season so there’s no harm in getting your permit early.
And you’ll need to start early. Permit applications start being accepted in Wyoming and Utah in January with most deadlines coming up in March. That does not give you much time to choose which animal to pursue and which state to do it in.
Wyoming Permits
Wyoming permits must be applied for online here. Deadlines are midnight (MT) on the last day of permitting. The deadlines listed below are for non-residents.
- Elk permits are available from January 1 – January 31.
- Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goats, and Moose permits are available from January 1 – February 29.
- Deer and Antelope permits are available from January 1 – May 31.
- Wild Turkey permits are available January 1-31 for the spring hunt and from July 1-31 for the fall hunt.
- Wild Bison permits are available February 1-29.
Utah Permits
In Utah, you’ll need a hunting permit for: bear, bighorn sheep, bison, bobcat, cougar, deer, elk, moose, pronghorn, Rocky Mountain goat, sage-grouse, sandhill crane, sharp-tailed grouse, swan, and turkey.
Most big game permits are subject to a drawing or lottery system. You’ll need to apply for your permits online here between January 28 – March 3, 2016 and then wait for the drawing to find out if you’ve successfully obtained a permit. Drawings will be held by May 27, 2016.
You can increase your chances of getting a permit by applying for bonus or preference points. Those must be applied for by March 17 for the 2016 season.
Utah also offers antlerless big game hunts to help manage herd size. Permit applications for these hunts must be made between May 26 and June 16. Visit the state’s Division of Wildlife Resources website in late May to see which permits are available.
Need Help? Contact R&K Hunting Company For Help
If you don’t have time to apply for a permit or don’t understand how to apply online, contact R&K Hunting Co. for help at 435-655-5484. We can help you prepare for your 2016 season by making sure you’ve got all the correct licenses and permits you need for a successful big game hunt.