The Best States for Elk Hunting: Plan Your Hunt

Whether you're pursuing trophy bulls, some of the most nutrient-dense game meat out there, or the chance to explore ancient public lands, choosing the correct state is a crucial factor in a successful hunt. Where should you go for your next (or first) elk hunt?

Let's look at the seven best states for elk hunting to help you plan the ultimate elk hunt this year.

What Makes a State Great For Elk Hunting?

While about twenty states offer elk hunting, not all will suit your individual hunting needs, land access requirements, or budget.

First, consider herd numbers. An abundance of elk increases your chances of success relative to hunting pressure and opportunity. Although a state can have a robust population, hunting opportunities may be limited without public land access, such as national forests, Bureau of Land Management areas, and state lands. Publicly managed lands are essential to maintaining the diverse and expansive hunting grounds for targeting elk. 

How Do You Like to Hunt?

Look for states where archery, rifle, and muzzleloader seasons offer the opportunity to extend time in the field using various hunting styles and target lesser-pressured seasons.

Finally, consider your access requirements. For example, is an elk hunt in Oregon convenient for you, or will you need to plan an out-of-state adventure to get there? Should you consider an elk hunt closer to home?

Also, states that offer over-the-counter (OTC) tags provide greater flexibility and simplicity. In contrast, those with limited-draw permits, which are harder to get, can offer a more exclusive hunting opportunity. 

If you're a trophy hunter, check the number of trophy elk harvested in the previous year and seasons to determine whether the health and size of the elk align with your goals. 

The 7 Best States For Elk Hunting

So, where should you go for a successful elk hunt? Here are our picks for the seven best elk hunting states.

1. Colorado

When it comes to excellent elk-hunting states, Colorado ticks all the boxes. With the largest elk population estimated at over 280,000 and 23 million acres of public land to hunt, there is no shortage of opportunities for elk hunters to chase the complete rocky mountain experience.

While it can get busy in peak season, the abundance of public land allows hunters to push beyond the popular hunting locations, targeting more remote zones with a higher chance of encompassing a beautifully conditioned elk. 

The diversity of the terrain further adds to the appeal, with the rugged mountains in the west providing a challenging hunt for the experienced hunter and the prairies of the east setting the perfect entry point for a novice elk hunter looking to fill their tag. 

Over-the-counter licensing provides easy access. Combo licenses maximize your time in the field, targeting fish or other species. 

2. Montana 

Montana represents everything hunters love about big game hunting — impressive elk populations, breathtaking landscapes, and hunting opportunities for all skill levels. Data shows that Montana has a healthy population of about 150,000 elk, with some monster-sized elk amongst these impressive herds. 

The state offers a mix of over-the-counter tags and a draw system for some hunting zones, meaning access to less-pressured zones allows experienced hunters to strategize and put their skills to the test.

Finally, Montana is an excellent state for bow hunters, with a long archery season that typically runs from early September through to late September and sometimes longer, leading into peak elk rut. 

3. Idaho

Sometimes overlooked, Idaho boasts an impressive elk population of an estimated 125,000 and is on the more affordable end of the scale when considering the costs of over-the-counter tags. While most action happens in the mountains, there's still plenty of elk movement in the western regions, providing a backcountry experience for newer and seasoned hunters alike. 

Public land opportunities are plentiful with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which oversees nearly 12 million acres and makes large allocations for recreation and hunting through 31 Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), which range from 275 to 85,000 acres. 

4. Wyoming

Home to an impressive 110,000 elk, the natural wonderland offers plentiful hunting opportunities. With a mixture of mountains, forests, grasslands, and a robust management program, the state consistently produces trophy elk, allowing fair access for both rifle and bow hunters during the rut period. 

Wyoming functions on a preference points system for non-residents, with 40% of all hunting zones allocated to these draws. 

5. Arizona

Arizona should be at the top of your list if you're a trophy seeker willing to wait on a difficult-to-draw tag. While the elk are giant, the limited-entry draw system for tags means getting at them might take a bit of patience and dedication. 

The numbers are solid, and with some of the enormous elk on the roster (we're talking trophy-class bulls), you've got nothing to lose by throwing your hat in the ring and hoping for a crack at an elk experience of a lifetime. 

6. Utah

Utah carefully manages mature bull populations, cultivating some of the most impressive-sized bulls — it's first and foremost a trophy bull destination.

The state offers general seasons and premium permits with the bonus point system preferencing applicants with the most bonus points. That being said, 50% of tags are drawn from remaining applicants, so you've got a decent chance of drawing a tag as a first-time applicant. 

Honorable Mention: New Mexico

New Mexico is a growing hot spot for elk hunters who are serious about taking a record-breaking elk. The carefully managed lottery system ensures a high demand and a limited number of hunters permitted to harvest elk yearly. Vast expanses of land, such as the Gila National Forest, provide a stunning ecosystem supporting healthy herds and large bulls. 

Hunters can choose between a public hunt, taking a true Gila giant in a DIY hunt, or contracting the expertise of a trusted outfitter in a premium private land hunt. 

What Should You Consider When Planning an Elk Hunt?

While many great opportunities exist across several big elk-hunting states, critical factors vary from state to state and must be evaluated accordingly. 

One of the primary considerations is how elk tags are allocated. While some states offer over-the-counter tags, which are easier to obtain, they may come with a higher rate of hunting pressure. Conversely, some states operate entry systems such as lotteries, which provide fewer tags allocated randomly or based on a points system relative to the number of entries you have previously put forward. Carefully assess each state's licensing and tagging laws to plan accordingly.

Next, consider the different firearm types and how they align with the hunting season dates. The rut generally occurs during September, providing the opportunity to call in vocal bulls. 

Hunting terrain is another key consideration, as mountainous regions with deep backcountry are better suited to an experienced hunter in peak physical condition. Flatter, accessible hunting zones will appeal to those seeking an easier or less challenging landscape. 

Finally, factor in the costs and special requirements associated with the hunt, such as the cost of tags, travel, gear, guides, and accommodation. Remember to brush up on your hunter education and first aid certifications before heading out on an elk hunt. 

HuntWise Tips For Choosing a State for an Elk Hunt

We know that planning an elk hunt requires a lot of preparation, strategy, and budgeting. That's why we want you to maximize your time in the field and give yourself an excellent chance of success.

Here's what we recommend:

• First, study the elk migration patterns in previous years, carefully marking high-probability locations on your public land mapping features on the HuntWise app. 
• Consider your hunting style and exposure to elk hunting as a guided hunt. A guide can be a fantastic way to get onto some big bulls, especially in unfamiliar territory.
• Researching and understanding some states' varying point preference systems allows you to accrue points annually, increasing your chances of hunting in premium areas.

This last tip may mean building up your preference points over time in a more exclusive hunting zone while maintaining your elk hunting fitness in over-the-counter hunting locations. 

Plan Your Next Elk Hunt With HuntWise

There are plenty of elk hunting opportunities on the North American hunting roster. The question is, where's best for your hunting needs?

Whether you go on a backcountry DIY hunt with a lucky tag or are taking on the flatter plains with fellow hunters on an over-the-counter tag, what doesn't change is the need to be informed about rutting, winding elevation, and other mapping insights. 

To maximize your chances of bagging a stunning elk, download the HuntWise app and start planning now. With cutting-edge mapping overlays, expert guides, rut insights, and more, you'll know more about the lay of the land and animal behaviors in the area you plan to hunt before you head out into the field.

Start planning for free by downloading the HuntWise app! Explore it free for your first week.