How to Hunt Big Game as a Non-Resident
Chasing elk in Colorado, mule deer in Wyoming, whitetails in Kansas, or pronghorn in New Mexico is a dream for many hunters—yet navigating non-resident licensing can be confusing. Each state has its own rules, deadlines, draw systems, quotas, and hunter-education requirements. Understanding these systems early helps you secure the tags you want and plan successful hunts far from home.
For help finding vetted outfitters and guided hunts that align with your tag options, you can explore opportunities through Find A Hunt.
Why States Treat Non-Resident Hunters Differently
Wildlife is managed on a state-by-state basis, and resident hunters are often given priority access. Non-resident hunting is still widely supported, but:
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Big game tags are limited to protect herds
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Non-resident quotas are often capped
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Fees are usually higher
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Preference/bonus point systems favor long-term applicants
Understanding these dynamics helps you plan realistically.
Types of Non-Resident Big Game Licenses
1. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Tags
Some states offer OTC tags for certain species or units. These allow hunters to purchase licenses without entering a draw.
Typical for:
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Elk (select states/units)
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Whitetail deer
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Black bear
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Feral hogs
Pros: Easy access, great for quick trips.
Cons: Can be crowded; quality varies by unit.
2. Draw (Limited-Entry) Tags
Many states require non-residents to apply months in advance for a chance at limited-entry hunts.
Systems vary:
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Preference points: Applicants with the most points draw first.
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Bonus points: More points = better odds, but not guaranteed.
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Random draws: Everyone has a chance each year.
Typical for:
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Trophy elk, mule deer, pronghorn
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High-quality whitetail units
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All moose, sheep, and goat hunts in most states
3. Landowner Tags or Vouchers
Some states allow private-landowners to receive tags that can be transferred or sold to non-residents.
Benefits:
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Avoid the draw
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Often paired with guided hunts
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Access private land with lower hunting pressure
4. Special Non-Resident Licenses
Examples include:
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Youth non-resident tags
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Non-resident apprentice licenses
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Non-resident archery-only or muzzleloader-only options
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Military or veteran-specific licenses (varies by state)
These broaden access depending on your situation.
Understanding Tag Costs for Non-Residents
Non-resident tags generally cost more because:
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Residents support wildlife year-round through taxes
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Out-of-state hunters add value to local economies
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States manage demand through price and quota systems
Budget early—tag fees, travel, and lodging can add up.
When to Apply: Draw Deadlines & Planning
Every state runs on its own schedule. While exact dates vary, here’s the general pattern:
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Late winter–spring: Most Western big-game draws (elk, mule deer, pronghorn).
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Summer: Select leftover draws or secondary opportunities.
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Fall: Some states open OTC deer, bear, or hog seasons.
Starting early helps you:
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Build points
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Coordinate dates with outfitters
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Research units, access points, and trophy potential
How to Improve Your Odds as a Non-Resident
1. Build Points Strategically
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Focus on 1–3 primary states to avoid spreading your budget too thin.
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Apply for realistic units with manageable point requirements.
2. Use Group Applications
Some states let groups pool points to increase odds of drawing the same tag.
3. Consider Lesser-Known Units
Trophy units are difficult to draw, but mid-tier or overlooked units offer great experiences with higher odds.
4. Apply Every Year for Premium Species
Moose, sheep, and goat can take years to draw—start now.
DIY vs. Guided Hunts for Non-Residents
Out-of-state hunting adds complexity. A guide or outfitter isn’t mandatory, but many non-residents choose one because:
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You save scouting time
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They know local access rules and terrain
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They track animal movement daily during season
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You reduce risk in unfamiliar backcountry
Guided hunts also help interpret regulations, which vary across counties, units, and private/public boundaries.
Hunter Education Requirements for Non-Residents
Most states require:
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A certified hunter education card for anyone born after a certain year
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Bowhunter education for archery-only draws in some areas
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Additional safety certifications for unique weapon types (e.g., crossbow rules)
Check requirements well before applying to avoid last-minute surprises.
Understanding Interstate Transport Laws
After the hunt, make sure you follow:
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CWD restrictions (carcass transport rules)
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Tagging and proof-of-sex requirements
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Mandatory check-ins or harvest reporting
These rules protect wildlife and prevent fines or confiscations.
Planning Your Non-Resident Big Game Hunt
To build a workable long-term plan:
1. Pick Your Priority States
Focus on species availability, cost, and draw difficulty.
2. Map Out a Multi-Year Strategy
Include:
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OTC hunts for annual opportunities
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Mid-tier draw units every few seasons
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High-demand trophy tags for long-term goals
3. Budget Early
Tags, licenses, and travel add up—plan months in advance.
4. Connect With Local Resources
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Game agencies
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Hunt forums
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Biologists
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Outfitters on Find A Hunt
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Mapping tools and harvest reports
Knowledge is your biggest advantage as a non-resident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a hunting license from my home state to hunt elsewhere?
No—your home state license is separate. You must buy a license from each state you hunt in.
Can non-residents hunt big game every year?
Yes. OTC opportunities exist yearly, and leftover tags or private-land tags add additional options.
Are draw odds worse for non-residents?
Typically, yes—but many states allocate a guaranteed percentage of tags to non-residents.
Do I lose my points if I draw?
Usually, yes. Drawn tags normally reset your points in that species or unit.
Is it worth hiring a guide for out-of-state hunts?
Many non-residents find guided hunts well worth the investment due to local expertise and reduced planning time.
If you’d like, I can create state-specific non-resident guides (Colorado elk, Kansas whitetail, Wyoming antelope, etc.) or upgrade older Find A Hunt pages with licensing and draw strategy tailored for local outfitters.
