Applicants have until October 31st to submit their preference point applications for hunting.
In the beautiful state of Wyoming, the hunt for big game is more than just a sport; it's a tradition. To secure a spot in the highly sought-after hunting season, applicants must navigate the lottery-style draw system managed by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD). This guide will walk you through the key aspects of the WGFD's preference points system, helping you increase your chances of drawing tags for specific species and regions.
The application process is straightforward, with hunters submitting their applications online annually by specified deadlines, typically in late May or early June. Applicants can find separate application windows for various species like pronghorn, elk, deer, antelope, bighorn sheep, moose, and bison.
Wyoming employs a 75-25 allocation system, where 75% of available licenses go to applicants with preference points, and 25% are randomly allocated regardless of points. This system significantly boosts chances in competitive hunts. Preference points accumulate yearly (for a fee) if you apply but do not draw a license, helping applicants in subsequent years for species with limited quotas. Some units require multiple points just to be eligible to apply.
Application deadlines vary by species and residency. For example, in 2025, the deadline for deer and antelope was June 2, while nonresident elk draw results were scheduled around mid-May. The WGFD provides draw odds reports and a Hunt Planner tool online, helping applicants understand their chances for different species and areas, aiding strategic planning.
Applicants with max points (the highest possible points) still face competition since many hold max points, so waiting times for premium tags can be long. For detailed FAQs, application instructions, draw deadlines, and species-specific odds, consult the WGFD’s official website, which typically offers a comprehensive breakdown of preference points, application steps, and real-time draw statistics.
In summary, here are the crucial aspects of Wyoming's preference points system:
- Preference Points: Earn one yearly if you apply without drawing (fee required).
- Allocation System: 75% licenses to point holders, 25% random draw.
- Application Deadlines: Usually late May/early June; species-specific deadlines.
- Odds & Draw Reports: Available from WGFD online tools and published draw statistics.
- Max Points Impact: Max point holders still compete; some wait times are long.
- Resources: WGFD Hunt Planner, draw odds reports, official FAQs on WGFD website.
For the most current and detailed explanations, directly referencing the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website is recommended. The Game and Fish preference points page provides additional information, including the deadline for submitting applications (October 31) and the fact that nonresidents can also apply for elk, deer, and antelope preference points.
Hunters who are unsuccessful in moose or bighorn sheep drawings receive a preference point (if resident). Additionally, hunters can check their current point balance online. It's essential to note that hunters who fail to purchase a point for two consecutive years will forfeit all accumulated points for that species.
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is currently accepting applications for preference points for hunting. The drawing odds for all species and hunt areas are available on the Game and Fish website. Applications for preference points can be submitted on the Wyoming Game and Fish Department's website. Nonresident hunters who do not draw can choose to purchase a preference point. Residents and nonresidents can apply for preference points for moose and bighorn sheep.
Totals for the 2025 hunting season will be updated in late November. Stay informed and plan your hunt strategically with the WGFD's resources. Happy hunting!
In Wyoming, the application process for acquiring hunting licenses is annual, with hunters submitting their applications online by specified deadlines for various species like elk, deer, antelope, and more. The WGFD employs a preference points system, with their 75-25 allocation system granting 75% of available licenses to applicants with points and 25% randomly allocated regardless of points.
