Utah Hunting Guide 2025-2026 – Seasons, Tags & Public Hunting Areas
Planning your next outdoor adventure in the Beehive State? You’ve come to the right place! This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Utah’s upcoming game calendar for 2025-2026, including specific dates, licensing requirements, and prime wildlife areas.
Whether you’re a seasoned local sportsman or planning your first visit to Utah’s diverse landscapes, we’ll walk you through the essential details to make your trip successful. From mule deer in the high country to waterfowl in the marshlands, Utah offers some of the most diverse outdoor opportunities in the West.
Before heading out, remember that regulations can change, and it’s always wise to double-check the latest information with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR). Let’s dive into what makes Utah such a special destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
📅 Quick Highlights
Utah’s diverse terrain supports an incredible variety of wildlife, making it a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here’s what you can expect during the 2025-2026 schedule:
Major Species Available:
- Big Game: Mule deer, elk, moose, black bear, cougar, pronghorn
- Upland Birds: Pheasant, quail, grouse, dove, turkey
- Waterfowl: Ducks, geese, swan, coot
- Small Game: Rabbit, squirrel, various furbearers
- Special Opportunities: Sandhill crane, crow, jackrabbit
Primary Methods: Archery, muzzleloader, and any legal weapon periods are available for most big game species. Youth opportunities exist across multiple categories.
Application Periods: Most limited-entry permits require applications submitted between March and April, with results typically announced in May.
Big Game Season Overview
Utah’s big game opportunities represent some of the finest in North America. Here’s your complete breakdown:
| Species & Method | 2025 Dates | 2026 Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Deer (Archery) | Aug 16 – Sept 12 | Aug 15 – Sept 11 | Most units open |
| General Deer (Muzzleloader) | Oct 8 – 12 | Oct 7 – 11 | 5-day opportunity |
| General Deer (Any Legal Weapon) | Oct 18 – 26 | Oct 17 – 25 | Popular 9-day period |
| General Elk – Spike Units (Archery) | Aug 16 – Sept 5 | Aug 15 – Sept 4 | Spike-only restrictions |
| General Elk – Any-Bull Units (Archery) | Aug 16 – Sept 17 | Aug 15 – Sept 16 | Premium units |
| General Elk (Muzzleloader) | Oct 4 – 10 | Oct 3 – 9 | Limited units |
| General Elk (Any Legal Weapon) | Oct 11 – 17 | Oct 10 – 16 | High-demand period |
Important Notes:
- Limited-entry deer and elk permits operate on separate draw systems with specific unit restrictions
- Dedicated hunter programs offer extended opportunities with additional requirements
- Some units have special regulations regarding antler restrictions or weapon types
Permit Requirements: Most big game requires either general tags (available over-the-counter) or limited-entry permits (drawing required). Resident adult permits range from $40-$215 depending on species and unit type.
Turkey Season Details
Wild turkey populations have recovered remarkably in Utah, offering both spring and fall opportunities:
| Season Type | 2025 Dates | 2026 Dates | Method | Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall General | Oct 1 – Jan 4 | Oct 1 – Jan 3 | Any legal weapon | Varies by unit |
| Spring Limited-Entry | April 11 – 30 | April 10 – 29 | Shotgun/archery | 1 bearded bird |
| Youth Hunt | May 1 – 3 | April 30 – May 2 | Any legal weapon | 1 bird |
| Spring General | May 4 – 31 | May 3 – 30 | Shotgun/archery | 1 bearded bird |
Turkey populations are thriving across much of Utah, particularly in areas with mixed habitat combining forests and agricultural lands. Spring gobbler activity peaks during the limited-entry period, while fall opportunities allow for either-sex harvests in many units.
Licensing: Resident turkey permits cost $25 for adults and youth, while nonresidents pay significantly more. Some units require special drawings due to popularity.
Furbearer Opportunities
Utah offers excellent furbearer trapping and pursuing opportunities, with some species available year-round:
| Species | Season Dates | Method | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coyote | Year-round | Any legal method | No bag limit |
| Red Fox | Year-round | Any legal method | Excellent pelts in winter |
| Striped Skunk | Year-round | Trapping/shooting | Use caution! |
| Muskrat | Year-round | Trapping primarily | Wetland areas |
| Bobcat | Nov 15 – March 1 | Trapping/pursuing | Requires harvest tag |
| Badger | Nov 15 – March 1 | Trapping | Limited populations |
| Beaver | Nov 15 – April 1 | Trapping | Requires landowner permission on private water |
| Gray/Kit Fox | Nov 15 – March 1 | Trapping | Protected in some areas |
| Marten | Nov 15 – March 1 | Trapping | High-elevation specialist |
| Mink | Nov 15 – March 1 | Trapping | Riparian zones |
| Weasel | Nov 15 – March 1 | Trapping | Small but valuable |
Trapping Requirements: A furbearer license is required for most species. Check local regulations as some areas may have special restrictions or closures.
Small Game Schedule
Utah’s upland game provides excellent opportunities for both seasoned bird hunters and newcomers:
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag | Possession |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ring-necked Pheasant | Nov 1 – Dec 31 | 3 roosters | 9 |
| California/Gambel’s Quail | Sept 27 – Feb 15 | 8 | 24 |
| Chukar Partridge | Sept 27 – Feb 15 | 8 | 24 |
| Gray Partridge | Sept 27 – Feb 15 | 8 | 24 |
| Mourning/White-winged Dove | Sept 1 – Oct 30 | 10 | 30 |
| Eurasian Collared Dove | Year-round | No limit | No limit |
| Cottontail Rabbit | Sept 27 – Feb 15 | 8 | 24 |
| Jackrabbit | Year-round | No limit | No limit |
| Dusky/Ruffed Grouse | Sept 27 – Oct 19 | 3 | 9 |
| Greater Sage-grouse | Sept 27 – Oct 19 | 2 | 6 |
| Snowshoe Hare | Sept 27 – March 15 | 4 | 12 |
Youth Opportunities: Many small game species offer extended youth periods or special youth-only areas. Participants under 16 must be accompanied by a licensed adult.
Habitat Note: Utah’s varied landscapes support different species in different regions. Desert areas excel for quail and dove, while mountain regions offer superior grouse opportunities.
Complete Waterfowl Calendar
Utah’s wetlands host impressive waterfowl migrations, creating world-class opportunities:
| Species | Zone | Season Dates | Daily Bag |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duck/Merganser/Coot | Northern | Oct 4 – Jan 17 | 6 ducks total |
| Duck/Merganser/Coot | Southern | Oct 11 – Jan 24 | 6 ducks total |
| Scaup | Northern | Oct 4 – Dec 28 | 2 (part of duck limit) |
| Scaup | Southern | Oct 31 – Jan 24 | 2 (part of duck limit) |
| Dark Goose | Statewide | Oct 4 – Jan 24 | 4 |
| Light Goose | Statewide | Oct 11 – Jan 31 | 25 |
| Swan | Statewide | Oct 4 – Dec 14 | 1 (permit required) |
| Common Snipe | Statewide | Oct 4 – Jan 17 | 8 |
Federal Regulations: All waterfowl enthusiasts must comply with federal migratory bird regulations, including HIP certification and federal duck stamps. Check current federal frameworks as they can affect state periods.
Prime Locations: Great Salt Lake marshes, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, and various Wildlife Management Areas offer exceptional opportunities. Similar waterfowl concentrations can be found in states like Colorado, making the region a waterfowler’s paradise.
Other Available Game
Utah offers several unique opportunities that make it stand out:
| Species | Season Dates | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Sandhill Crane (Early) | Oct 25 – 27 | Permit required, limited tags |
| Sandhill Crane (Middle) | Nov 1 – Dec 7 | Permit required |
| Sandhill Crane (Late) | Sept 27 – Oct 16 | Permit required |
| American Crow | Dec 1 – Feb 28 | No permit required |
| Band-tailed Pigeon | Sept 1 – Sept 30 | Federal regulations apply |
| White-tailed Ptarmigan | Sept 27 – Oct 19 | High-elevation specialist |
| Sharp-tailed Grouse | Sept 27 – Oct 19 | Limited distribution |
| Prairie Dog | Year-round (in certain counties) | Check local restrictions |
Specialty Permits: Several species require special permits or have limited availability. Sandhill crane permits are particularly competitive and require separate applications.
Game Units and Management Areas
Utah divides its diverse landscape into specific management units, each with unique regulations and opportunities:
Major Regions:
- Northern Region: Wasatch-Cache National Forest areas, excellent for deer, elk, and moose
- Northeastern Region: High Uintas, premier big game country
- Central Region: Diverse habitats supporting multiple species
- Southeastern Region: Desert and canyon country, unique opportunities
- Southern Region: Warmer climate extending some opportunities
Public Land Access: Utah features over 149 Wildlife Management Areas totaling more than 500,000 acres. Recent legislation requires all WMA users to possess valid licenses, regardless of activity type.
Interactive Resources: The Utah Hunt Planner (hunt.utah.gov) provides detailed unit information, including biologist notes, population data, and success rates. This tool is invaluable for planning your adventure.
Private vs. Public: While Utah has substantial public land, always verify access rights and property boundaries. Some of the best opportunities exist on private ranches through guided services or access programs.
Licenses, Tags & Permit Details
Understanding Utah’s licensing system is crucial for legal compliance:
Basic Licenses (2025 Rates)
| License Type | Resident | Nonresident | Youth Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic License | $44 | $144 | $44 (NR Youth) |
| Combination (Game + Fish) | $70 | $190 | $58 (NR Youth) |
| Senior (65+) | $35 | N/A | N/A |
| Short-term (1-day) | $20 | $35 | N/A |
Special Stamps & Add-ons
- Federal Duck Stamp: $25 (required for waterfowl)
- State Waterfowl Stamp: $12 (residents), $25 (nonresidents)
- HIP Certification: Free (required for migratory birds)
- Habitat Permit: Various fees depending on WMA
Big Game Permits
- General Deer: $50 (resident), $300+ (nonresident)
- General Elk: $65 (resident), $400+ (nonresident)
- Limited-entry permits: Significantly higher, varies by species and unit
Military Discounts: Active duty military stationed in Utah may qualify for resident rates. Contact DWR for specific eligibility requirements.
Application Process: Most permits can be purchased online through the DWR website or at licensed vendors statewide. Limited-entry permits require separate applications during specific periods.
Utah Game Calendar Quick FAQ
Q: When should I apply for limited-entry big game permits? A: Applications typically open in March and close in late April, with results announced in May. Mark your calendar early as these dates are firm.
Q: Can nonresidents participate in general deer and elk opportunities? A: Yes, but at significantly higher costs. Some units may sell out quickly, particularly for elk permits.
Q: Do I need a guide for public land activities? A: No guide is required for public land access, but local knowledge can significantly improve success rates, especially in unfamiliar territory.
Q: What’s the best time to visit for multiple species? A: October offers overlapping opportunities for big game, upland birds, and early waterfowl periods. This timing provides maximum diversity.
Q: Are there special regulations for Wildlife Management Areas? A: Yes, recent legislation requires all WMA users to possess valid licenses. Additionally, some areas have specific weapon restrictions or access limitations.
Q: How do Utah’s opportunities compare to neighboring states? A: Utah offers excellent diversity, though some hunters also explore opportunities in Arizona for desert species or Montana for additional big game options.
Q: What safety equipment is required? A: Orange clothing requirements vary by season and species. Always check current regulations before heading out, as violations can result in significant penalties.
Essential Resources & Links
Official Utah Resources:
- Utah Division of Wildlife Resources: wildlife.utah.gov
- Utah Hunt Planner: hunt.utah.gov
- License Purchase: wildlife.utah.gov/licenses
- WMA Information: wildlife.utah.gov/wmas.html
- Current Regulations: wildlife.utah.gov/hunting
Federal Requirements:
- Federal Duck Stamp: www.fws.gov/birds/surveys-and-data/harvest-information-program
- HIP Certification: Required annually for migratory birds
- Migratory Bird Regulations: www.fws.gov
Planning Tools:
- Weather Forecasts: Critical for mountain activities
- Road Conditions: Especially important during late periods
- Public Land Maps: Essential for access planning
Wrapping Up Your Utah Adventure
Utah’s 2025-2026 game calendar offers something for every outdoor enthusiast, from September dove opportunities through late-winter waterfowl periods. The state’s diverse landscapes support an incredible variety of wildlife, making it possible to enjoy multiple species and methods throughout the extended schedule.
Key takeaways for success: Apply early for limited-entry permits, understand unit-specific regulations, and always verify current information before heading out. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources does an excellent job maintaining current information, and their interactive planning tools can help maximize your time in the field.
Remember that regulations can change based on population surveys, weather conditions, or other factors. Always check for updates, especially if you’re planning trips several months in advance.
Whether you’re pursuing trophy elk in the high country, chasing sage grouse across desert valleys, or setting up for waterfowl in world-famous marshlands, Utah delivers memorable experiences. Plan accordingly, respect the resource, and enjoy everything this remarkable state has to offer.
Be sure to bookmark this guide for future reference – we’ll continue updating it as new information becomes available throughout the year.
