Utah antlerless hunt 2026: how to apply, deadlines and what’s new this year

Photo: Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah hunters looking to fill their freezers with locally sourced wild game can begin applying for antlerless big game permits starting June 9, when the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources opens its 2026 antlerless hunt application period.

Applications are accepted through June 23 at 11 p.m. MDT. The drawing covers permits for antlerless deer, antlerless elk, antlerless moose, doe pronghorn and ewe bighorn sheep.

“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,” said Lindy Varney, administrative services assistant chief for the Utah DWR.

A cow elk can yield between 120 and nearly 200 pounds of boneless meat depending on age, while a doe deer provides approximately 40 pounds. Both can be prepared as hamburger, roasts, steaks, stews or other dishes.

“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,” Varney said.

The DWR issues antlerless permits to manage population levels, improve herd and habitat health, reduce livestock depredation on private property, and address wildlife conflicts on busy roads and in populated areas.

Applicants must be at least 12 years old by their hunt date and hold a valid Utah hunting or combination license. Applications can be submitted online, by phone through the nearest DWR office, or by calling the hunt-drawing helpline at 855-UTDRAWS (855-883-7297). Note that hunters cannot apply for both an antlerless moose permit and a ewe bighorn sheep permit in the same application year.

Drawing results will be posted on or before July 8. Any remaining permits will be available for over-the-counter purchase beginning July 28 at 8 a.m. MDT.

Hunters should note several changes for 2026, including a new draw application system with a different website and contractor than previous years. TThe Utah Wildlife Board has also approved relief options for permit holders in areas where natural disasters prevent hunting access.

Unit-specific details including boundary descriptions, biologist notes, and population and harvest statistics are available on the Utah Hunt Planner. Full regulations can be found in the 2026 Utah Big Game Field Regulations Guidebook.