When most hunters dream about where to apply for elk tags their thoughts usually drift to New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, Montana or other western states. One state that typically does not hit the serious elk hunter’s radar is Pennsylvania. I’m here to tell you that is a major oversight.
The Keystone State is home to more than 1,300 elk and issues approximately 36 bull tags each year between archery and rifle hunts. The lucky hunters who draw one of these tags enjoy a high success rate (97% for the last 10 years) and very high trophy quality. Every hunter who dreams of taking a trophy bull elk should consider applying in Pennsylvania. I know. You’re still thinking out West. But Pennsylvania is something special. Call and we can discuss more details.
Here is it in a nutshell. All residents and non-residents can apply and are competing for the same tags, so the odds of drawing are equal. Non-residents can apply for all hunts and can enter the drawing for both archery and rifle bull tags. We encourage everyone to apply for both season choices (archery and general) to help increase the chances of drawing a tag.
Pennsylvania has a bonus point system where you accrue a point for each season you apply and are not successful in drawing. These valuable points will increase your odds of drawing in future years.
The deadline to apply is July 31 and the drawing will be held August 21.
Typically, the cost to apply is $66.90 for a single season application or $78.80 for both rifle and archery applications. However, in 2021, WTA TAGS will apply a $55 discount for anyone who calls in before the deadline!
Successful applicants would then need to purchase their tag, which is only $250 – very reasonable when compared to many of the western states’ tag fees. Call and let’s talk about hunting elk in Pennsylvania – and/or any other trips you’d like to discuss. We’re at 1-800-755- TAGS (8247).
