The day on which the Utah big game draw posts always garners excitement in our office, and rightfully so. Each year, world-class tags for one of the 8 available species are drawn by those who expected a 20+ year wait but somehow drew in short order. Defying the odds and drawing such a tag can typically be classified as the hunt of a lifetime for almost any hunter.
How the Draw Works
Utah’s big game tags are issued through a modified bonus point system. 50% of the tags in each unit are allocated to the applicants with the most points. The remaining 50% are distributed randomly among everyone else who applied for that hunt. Points also play a role in the random selection process. For instance, an applicant with five points will have his name into the draw five times. This means your draw odds increase from each year as you accrue points.
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Species Breakdown
Elk
Utah boasts the renowned Rocky Mountain elk, with numerous units capable of producing world-class bulls to rival those found in the best units across the West. Every limited-entry elk unit in the state offers the potential for trophy-quality bulls. The state provides a variety of seasons including archery, early rifle, muzzleloader, mid rifle, and late rifle hunts. Archery and early rifle seasons occurring during the rut are highly sought after. While mid rifle hunts offer better draw odds, they typically have higher tag numbers and coincide with spike hunts, resulting in more hunters in the field. Nonetheless, those with minimal points should not overlook this season. Late rifle tags are also in high demand with opportunities to spot bulls on their wintering range where they are easier to observe. Regardless of the unit or season, a limited-entry bull elk tag in Utah promises an exciting hunt.
Mule Deer
Utah offers two types of deer tags: limited-entry and general. Units such as the Henry Mountains, Paunsaugunt, and Oak Creek are renowned for producing trophy bucks, while several other areas across the state are showing signs of rebounding in terms of trophy production. Trophy quality outside these prime areas diminishes rapidly. Archery or muzzleloader hunters are encouraged to consider these weapons for improved draw odds. Please note that Utah will only allow 1X scopes/red dots or iron sights on muzzleloaders starting in 2024.
General deer hunting across the state is not considered a trophy hunt except in unique circumstances. These tags are ideal for youth or families seeking recreational time in the field and game for the freezer. General deer tags are allotted through a true preference points system, ensuring highly predictable draw odds.
Sheep
Utah is home to three wild sheep species: Rocky Mountain Bighorn, California Bighorn, and Desert Bighorn. Like other sheep tags across the West, these opportunities are highly coveted and come with challenging draws. Winners of these coveted tags can expect nearly 100% harvest management by the state, although trophy quality and hunt physicality vary significantly from unit to unit.
Bison
Harvesting a free-range bison is a pinnacle for many hunters and Utah offers exceptional opportunities. The majority of bison tags are available in the Bookcliffs and Henry Mountains. Hunts can be conducted via road networks or in a traditional fashion utilizing horses and wall tents. If you aspire to harvest a wild bison, missing the application deadline is not advisable.
Shiras Moose
A limited number of Shiras moose tags are available in the draw. If you’re already purchasing a non-resident hunting license, it’s worth while to enter the moose draw. Otherwise, it’s not recommended to apply for moose in Utah. Neighboring states like Colorado and Idaho offer larger tag allotments and better draw odds.
Mountain Goat
Stable populations and superior trophy quality attract many hunters to apply for goats in Utah. Every unit has the potential to produce Boone & Crockett trophies and is managed for 100% hunter success.
Pronghorn Antelope
While portions of Utah offer excellent trophy quality for antelope, tags are limited. If you’re already entering the draw for other species, consider applying for antelope as well. But states such as Wyoming, New Mexico, and Montana provide a wider selection of drawable tags.
If you’ve ever aspired to pursue bugling bulls, giant mule deer, or even sheep, moose, or mountain goat, you do not want to miss Utah’s application deadline on April 25, 2024. WTA TAGS is here to make sure your draw odds are maximized for these coveted tags.
