Are you considering applying in Wyoming for elk this year? This article and video outlines what you need to know before you apply
Are you planning to hunt elk in Wyoming for the 2025 season? This comprehensive Wyoming application guide has everything you need to know about the upcoming Wyoming elk application process, costs, deadlines, and Insider tips to improve your chances of securing a tag. Having an Insider membership makes doing all of your hunting research a breeze. Stay tuned for our upcoming Application Strategy articles that will explain everything in much more detail.
Don’t miss out—read on to make your application smooth and successful!
Insider makes it easy to find tag opportunities by state, species, probability of draw odds success, and much more! Whether you're new to the application system or have been at it for decades, Insider gives you the information you need to plan a successful hunt. In addition to our research tools, all Insiders have access to GOHUNT Maps on the web and mobile app. In addition to all these benefits, you can access our Insider research tools on our mobile app! It's the only complete and full package set of tools to help you find the hunt you want this year or to help you plan for hunts in the future.
If you're unfamiliar with Insider, check out the link below.
When it comes to applying for Wyoming elk, you can learn everything about application fees, application deadlines, tag costs, rules, and regulations on our State Profile pages. Check out the link below:
Whether you’re new to Wyoming elk hunting or seasoned when it comes to application research, this guide will help you navigate the application process with confidence. There's no better time than now to dive into your research to maximize your chances of drawing a tag for the 2025 season. Good luck, and happy hunting!
The application period is January 1 to January 31, 2025.
Deadline: 11:59 pm MT on January 31.
Pro Tip: Submit your application early to avoid technical issues.
Applications are online only—no paper submissions or mail-ins.
Access Wyoming's application portal to submit your information; you can apply here.
75% of tags are allocated based on preference points.
25% of tags are allocated randomly.
Important Tip: Purchase preference points during the summer if you don’t draw, or you risk losing them after two consecutive years of inactivity.
Nonresidents: Must hunt with a guide or a resident sponsor in forest service wilderness areas.
Wilderness Study Areas: No guide is required.
Planning Tip: Ensure compliance with these rules to avoid complications.
Type 1 & 2 Tags: Full-price rifle tags, with the option to purchase an archery stamp.
Type 9 Tags: Archery-only elk tags.
Type 4 & 5 Tags: Full-price cow/calf tags that consume your elk points.
Type 6 & 7 Tags: Reduced-price cow/calf tags that do not consume preference points.
Research Draw Odds: Use tools found on GOHUNT Insider to analyze trends and understand what it takes to secure a tag. Access our standalone Draw Odds here to see Wyoming elk draw odds.
Plan for Costs: Budget for all necessary permits, stamps, and tags to avoid surprises.
Submit Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to complete your application.
Groups of up to six can apply together.
Wyoming allows over-allocation of tags to ensure the entire group can hunt.
Application Fee: $15
License Options:
Nonresident Regular Tag: $707
Nonresident Special Tag: $1,965 (offers slightly better draw odds).
Additional Costs:
Conservation Stamp: $21.50. Required for all hunters.
Elk Special Management Permit: $15.50. Mandatory for specific units near feed grounds.
Residents: 84% of tags.
Nonresidents: 16% of tags, split between:
60% Regular Draw Pool.
40% Special Draw Pool.
General Tags: Divided into three regions—Western, Southern, and Eastern.
Nonresidents apply via a draw; residents can purchase over the counter.
Limited Quota Tags: Specific to particular units and offer a more tailored hunting experience.
