Big Changes to Idaho's Nonresident Deer & Elk Tags: What You Need to Know
If Idaho is on your radar for a Western hunt, there’s a big shift you need to be aware of.
For years, Idaho was one of the few states where nonresident general season tags for deer and elk were sold over-the-counter on a first-come, first-served basis each December. That made it a prime early-season option to get something on the calendar before most other states opened their applications.
But starting this year (for the 2026 season), Idaho is switching gears — and it’s a big one. Nonresident general tags are moving to a randomized draw system, with applications happening in December and results dropping in early January. If any tags are left over after that, they’ll go into a second draw in January.
Let’s break it down:
OLD SYSTEM: First-Come, First-Served (Pre-2025)
Tags dropped every December 10, and it was a mad dash.
You’d log on early, fight through a digital line, and hope the zone you wanted didn’t sell out in minutes.
A lot of folks got skunked — not because they didn’t plan, but because the system was overwhelmed.
NEW SYSTEM: Random Draw (Starting December 2025)
Instead of waking up at the crack of dawn and praying the website doesn’t crash, now you’ll apply in early December and get your results in early January.
It’s completely random. No point system. Everyone has the same shot.
If any tags are left after that first draw? There’ll be a second-chance draw in January for leftovers.
This applies to nonresident general season deer and elk tags, not controlled hunts — those still have their own separate draws later in the year.
What This Means for You
Even though it’s now a random draw, Idaho is still one of the earliest opportunities to plan a Western hunt. You’ll know by early January if you’ve got a tag, which gives you a ton of lead time to scout, train, and prep.
And because Idaho doesn’t use a bonus or preference point system, it stays a level playing field. Everyone who applies has the same odds, whether it’s your first time or your tenth.
For those of you hunting with kids or mentored juniors, junior mentored elk tags in capped zones will still need to go through the draw, but deer and uncapped elk zones will remain available over-the-counter after the draw.
And if you happen to hold an Idaho lifetime license, you’re exempt from all this — you can still buy during the resident sale period in the summer.
Key Dates
December 2025 – Apply for 2026 nonresident deer and elk tags
Early January 2026 – First draw results
January 2026 – Second draw for any leftover tags
Controlled hunt apps – Stay tuned for those deadlines separately - usually around June 5th every year
Planning Tips
Mark your calendar now for December. This draw is your best early-season bet to build a hunt plan with confidence.
Pick your zones wisely. Start researching now so you know which units fit your style, ability, and expectations.
Don’t forget controlled hunts. Those apps open later, and they might offer a better shot at quality or solitude if you’re willing to swing for the fences.
Watch for updates. Idaho Fish & Game is likely to roll out more details as we get closer.
Final Thoughts
This change brings Idaho in line with other states that use randomized draws, but it doesn’t take away its value. You’ll still get one of the earliest looks at your season, and for folks who know how to plan and prepare, that’s gold.
If you’re serious about heading to Idaho in 2026, this new draw in December is your ticket. Let’s make sure you’re ready to put your name in the hat with a Hunt West Session — with the best info, a smart strategy, and a plan you can start building as soon as those tags hit your account.
