Utah’s big game hunts have shifted their application period from January to March and April. This change allows hunters to see the proposed permit numbers before applying. The application period opens on March 23 at 8 a.m. and ends on April 27 at 11 p.m.
To apply for the hunts, you can do it online or over the phone by calling the nearest DWR regional office. The results of the drawing will be released on May 31, and you’ll be notified by email. But, you can also get the drawing results online or by calling 1-800-221-0659.
Moving The Application Period
Utah holds big game hunts for various species such as bighorn sheep, bison, elk, moose, mountain goat, mule deer, and pronghorn. The DWR Wildlife Licensing Coordinator, Lindy Varney, explained that they don’t have the data for big game captures, harvest rates, and surveys until March. After receiving public requests, the DWR shifted the application dates so hunters can have information about the proposed permit numbers before applying. Hunters can access the proposed permit numbers for each hunt unit beginning in April.
Starting March 23, applications will be accepted for most of Utah’s 2023 big game hunts. However, permits for the state’s general-season bull elk hunts won’t be available until July. Joining the Dedicated Hunter program provides you with a chance to hunt all of Utah’s general-season deer hunts.
The Utah Hunt Planner is an interactive, online map that provides valuable information from DWR biologists to help answer a lot of questions. Use it when you’re researching hunts you want to apply for or after you draw a permit for a particular hunt.
If you’re not planning to hunt in 2023, you can still apply for a bonus point or a preference point. Your application for a point must be received no later than 11 p.m. on April 27. You can also edit your application free of charge at any time during the application period (before 11 p.m. on April 27).
For more information about applying for a 2023 Utah big game hunting permit contact the nearest DWR office.
You can find the Utah DWR website by clicking here. Likewise, you can read more Utah hunting news by clicking here.
