How To Apply For Utah's Antlerless Big Game Hunt Permits

Utah hunters looking to fill their freezers while spending time outdoors can apply for the state’s 2026 antlerless big game hunts.

The application period opened at 8 a.m. MDT on June 9 and runs through 11 p.m. MDT on June 23. Hunters may apply for permits to hunt antlerless deer, antlerless elk, antlerless moose, doe pronghorn and ewe bighorn sheep. However, applicants cannot apply for both an antlerless moose permit and a ewe bighorn sheep permit in the same year.

Antlerless permits / Courtesy Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

For many hunters, the appeal goes beyond the experience of the hunt itself. Antlerless hunts can provide a significant amount of nutritious, locally sourced meat. Depending on age and size, a cow elk can yield between 120 and nearly 200 pounds of boneless meat, while a doe deer can provide about 40 pounds. That meat can be prepared in countless ways, from steaks and roasts to stews, stir-fry dishes, hamburgers and fajitas.

“The antlerless big game hunts are a great opportunity to not only harvest meat and make some great memories outdoors, but they also help manage wildlife populations and maintain healthy herds and landscapes,” Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Administrative Services Assistant Chief Lindy Varney said in a press release. “There are only a few doe deer hunts in Utah, and all of them are designed to be very targeted to address localized areas of specific concern, conflicts or public safety considerations.”

These Hunts Prove Vital To Wildlife Management

While the hunts provide recreational opportunities, they also play an important role in wildlife management. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources uses antlerless permits to help maintain population objectives, improve herd health, reduce disease concerns, protect habitat from overuse, address agricultural conflicts and decrease the number of animals in areas where they may create public safety concerns, such as along busy roadways or near communities.

Hunters must have a valid Utah hunting or combination license and be at least 12 years old by the date of their hunt. Applications may be submitted online, through a DWR office or by calling the hunt-drawing helpline.

Several updates accompany the 2026 application period. Utah has introduced a new draw application system with a different website and contractor than previous years. In addition, the Utah Antlerless Application Guidebook will now be available as a downloadable PDF through both the DWR website and the Utah Hunting & Fishing app. The Utah Wildlife Board has also approved relief options for hunters whose hunts may be affected by natural disasters.

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Drawing results are expected to be available on or before July 8. Any remaining permits will go on sale beginning July 28.

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