As we covered back in May, Idaho nonresident general season elk and deer tags are moving to a draw for the 2026 season. And yesterday, Idaho released the following information about the draw.

Idaho nonresident general season elk and deer tag sale information

Idaho Fish and Game recently announced details on the new nonresident drawing for deer and elk tags for 2026. The drawing replaces the traditional first-come, first-served sale that occurred online and at license and tag vendors.

Another change is that nonresident hunters will have to buy a 2026 nonresident hunting license to participate in the drawing for general season deer and elk tags. There will be no refunds for unsuccessful applicants.

Hunters who apply for these tags remain eligible to apply for controlled hunt tags. Nonresident hunters should be aware of the following dates:

There is no application fee for the 2026 nonresident draw. However, this could change in future years.

The 2026 Nonresident General Tags Supplemental brochure is currently being updated to include the hunt numbers for each unit and zone that can be applied for (similar to controlled hunt numbers). This supplemental brochure will also denote capped and uncapped zones for DAV applicants. The updated brochure is expected to be completed and available in September 2025.

Hunters interested in applying for nonresident deer and elk tags in December should check back regularly for more information on the nonresident deer/elk tag webpage. Full details on the nonresident draw process will be provided by September.