Big game hunting season begins mid-August. Photo: Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

Utah’s 2026 big game hunting season begins Saturday, with the start of the general-season archery buck deer and spike and any-bull elk hunts.

Mule deer populations are trending positively across much of Utah, according to the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. Strong fawn production and survival in recent years have helped herds grow, including in northern Utah, where some populations had declined several years ago.

The state’s estimated elk population is also above its statewide management objective, with about 83,020 elk compared to a goal of 80,600. Hunters can still purchase over-the-counter late-season any-legal-weapon any-bull elk permits, as well as general-season bull elk archery permits.

Know the rules and prepare

DWR recommends hunters use the Utah Hunt Planner before heading into the field. The online resource includes hunting-unit information, maps, habitat information, and notes from local biologists.

Hunters are also required to submit harvest reports within 30 days of the end of their hunt, whether or not they harvested an animal. Mandatory chronic wasting disease sampling also applies to buck deer harvested in the limited-entry Castle Valley and Moab Valley hunts and, new this year, the general-season any-legal-weapon Ogden hunt.

Hunters affected by wildfires or other natural disasters may also qualify for permit relief.

This year, hunters also have the option to electronically tag harvested big game through the Utah Hunting and Fishing mobile app.

DWR encourages hunters to practice with their equipment before the season and to spend time scouting. Hunters should be prepared for changing mountain weather, carry plenty of water and a first-aid kit, and make sure someone knows where they are going, since cell service can be unreliable in the backcountry.

For archery hunters in particular, DWR recommends paying close attention to wind direction and using stealth when approaching animals. Hunters should also know what lies beyond their target before taking a shot.

After a successful harvest, hunters should cool the meat as quickly as possible, particularly during warmer early-season hunts.

More information, including regulations and hunting-unit details, is available through the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.