Wyoming Non-Resident Hunting Tags and Deadlines

A Local Expert’s Guide to Draws and Preference Points

Wyoming is widely considered one of the best hunting states in the West. From wide-open pronghorn country to high-elevation elk units and expansive mule deer habitat, the opportunity here is unmatched. For non-resident hunters, however, success begins long before opening day.

I spend a great deal of time helping hunters understand Wyoming recreation, land access, and long-term hunting strategy. One of the most common mistakes I see is missing application deadlines or misunderstanding how Wyoming’s preference point system works. This guide breaks the process down clearly so you can plan ahead and hunt Wyoming with confidence.

How Wyoming’s Non-Resident Hunting Draw Works

Wyoming uses a limited-quota draw system for most big game species. Non-resident hunters must apply during specific application periods each year through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.

Each species has its own application deadline and draw timeline. If you miss the application window, you are out for that year. There are no exceptions.

Understanding these timelines is critical for anyone serious about hunting Wyoming as a non-resident.

Wyoming Non-Resident Big Game Application Deadlines

All application deadlines close at midnight Mountain Time.

• Elk (Non-Resident): February 2nd

• Deer (Non-Resident): June 1

• Antelope / Pronghorn (Non-Resident): June 1

• Moose: April 30

• Bighorn Sheep: April 30

• Mountain Goat: April 30

• Bison: April 30

Draw results are typically released between mid-May and mid-June, depending on the species.

Missing a deadline means waiting another full year, which can significantly impact long-term hunting plans.

Be sure to check the regulations, these dates are subject to change year to year.

Turkey and Other Specialty Hunting Tags in Wyoming

Wyoming also offers excellent opportunities beyond traditional big game seasons.

• Spring Turkey: Applications due in early February

• Fall Turkey and Sandhill Crane: Applications due in early June

These hunts are often overlooked and can be a great way to add another Wyoming hunt to your season, especially for hunters with flexible schedules.

Wyoming Preference Points Explained for Non-Residents

Preference points are one of the most important parts of Wyoming’s non-resident draw system.

Wyoming uses preference points for:

• Elk

• Deer

• Antelope

• Moose

• Bighorn Sheep

Each species has its own point total. Preference points do not carry over between species.

How the Split Draw Works

Wyoming uses a split draw system for most licenses:

• 75 percent of licenses go to applicants with the highest preference points

• 25 percent of licenses are issued randomly

This means it is possible to draw with zero points, but premium units heavily favor applicants who have been building points over time.

Preference Point Only Applications

If you do not plan to hunt in a given year, you should still purchase preference points.

The preference point only purchase window typically runs from July 1 through October 31 each year.

Skipping a year without buying points can set you back significantly, especially for high-demand elk and deer units. Most experienced non-resident hunters take a long-term approach by building points consistently and applying strategically when the timing is right.

Leftover Licenses and Second Draw Opportunities

After the main draw, Wyoming conducts leftover license drawings for elk, deer, and antelope. Any remaining tags are later sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

These opportunities are ideal for hunters who are flexible on units, weapon types, or season dates. Archery hunters in particular can often find excellent value through leftover tags.

Why Long-Term Planning Matters in Wyoming

Wyoming hunting is about more than just drawing a tag. Access, land knowledge, and understanding the landscape all matter. Many of the best hunts occur in areas with a mix of public land, private land, and working ranches.

This is why long-term planning is so important. Whether you are building preference points, planning future hunts, or considering recreational land ownership to guarantee access, understanding Wyoming’s draw system is essential.

Final Thoughts

Wyoming rewards hunters who plan ahead. When you understand deadlines, use preference points wisely, and approach the system strategically, non-resident hunters can enjoy Wyoming year after year instead of hoping for a once-in-a-lifetime draw.

For anyone serious about Western hunting, Wyoming is absolutely worth the commitment.

Quick Links to Apply and Plan Your Hunt

Apply for Wyoming Big Game Licenses
Apply for Licenses – Wyoming Game & Fish Department
This is the official applications portal where non-residents submit limited quota big game and special draw applications.

View Non-Resident Application Dates and Deadlines
Wyoming Game & Fish Application Dates & Deadlines
An official schedule of all current application open/close dates, modify/withdraw deadlines, and draw result dates.

Purchase Preference Points Only
Preference Points – Wyoming Game & Fish Department
Information on preference points and the links to purchase them online during the designated window.

Check Draw Results
Wyoming Draw Results & Odds – Wyoming Game & Fish Department
Official draw results and odds for current and past years.

Find Leftover and Second Draw Licenses
Leftover Licenses – Wyoming Game & Fish Department
Details on leftover license drawings and first-come, first-served sales after the main draw.