Elk Hunting License Guide
Complete guide to elk hunting licenses across the western states — tags, draw odds, and costs.
About Elk Hunting in the United States
Elk hunting is the pinnacle of big game hunting in the American West. Primarily found in the Rocky Mountain states, elk hunting attracts hundreds of thousands of hunters each year to states like Colorado, Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho. License costs vary widely — Colorado charges non-residents $845 for an elk tag, while Montana's non-resident combo license runs over $1,384. Most Western states use a draw system for at least some elk hunting units, with preference or bonus point systems that can require years of applications to draw a premium tag. Over-the-counter (OTC) elk tags are available in some units in Colorado and Montana, making these states popular first-time destinations.
Scientific name: Cervus canadensis
Elk Distribution Map
See where elk hunting is available across the United States.
Elk Hunting License Costs by State
Compare elk tag prices, seasons, and license methods across states.
| State | Resident Tag | Non-Resident Tag | Season | Method | Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $20.00 | $1184.50 | Sep–Nov | Both | 1 elk per license |
| Colorado | $70.40 | $845.16 | Aug–Nov | Both | 1 bull or cow per license |
| Michigan | $125.00 | $125.00 | Varies | Draw | 1 elk |
Prices sourced from official state wildlife agencies. Last updated: 2026-03-13.
Elk Hunting Tips & Resources
Know the Regulations
Before your hunt, always verify current season dates, bag limits, and legal methods with the state wildlife agency.
Scout Your Area
Use public land maps and trail cameras to identify elk habitat and travel patterns before season opens.
Safety First
Wear required blaze orange, carry your license, and follow all firearm safety rules while in the field.
Recommended Elk Hunting Gear
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Elk Hunting License FAQ
Which state has the cheapest elk tag?
Montana offers the cheapest resident elk tag at $20 for general elk. For non-residents, no state offers truly cheap elk tags — Colorado at $845 is among the most accessible OTC options.
Do I need to apply for a draw to hunt elk?
It depends on the state and unit. Colorado and Montana offer some over-the-counter (OTC) units, while premium units in all states require draw applications. States like Arizona and Nevada are draw-only.
How many preference points do I need to draw an elk tag?
This varies dramatically by state and unit. Some Colorado units can be drawn with 0-3 points, while premium units in states like Arizona or Wyoming may require 10+ years of point accumulation.