The New Idaho Nonresident Draw - What to know for 2026
What You Need to Know for 2026
Idaho just made the biggest change to its nonresident big-game tag system in two decades—one that will reshape how elk and deer hunters plan their hunts, build strategies, and secure tags.
For years, nonresident hunters had to fight through a chaotic first-come, first-served general tag sale. Websites crashed, queues stretched for hours, and hunters often ended up with whatever zone was left—not the hunt they wanted. That system is now gone.
For 2026, Idaho is moving to a true nonresident draw system for the general tags that resembles their draw for controlled hunts (which is still happening in June) and this is a major win for hunters who want fairness, predictability, and the ability to plan ahead. But not for those who could drive to Idaho and get a tag in prior years.
Below is the full breakdown of the new draw —and how to position yourself for success.
The Big Change: Nonresidents Must Buy a Hunting License to Enter the Draw
To apply for any 2026 nonresident tag—general elk zone tags, general deer tags, or controlled hunts—you must purchase a nonrefundable $185 nonresident hunting license.
If you draw, you’re in. If you don’t draw… the license fee is gone. This will likely lead to some decreased demand compared to the old "Queue" system. This will also likely reduce “casual” applicants and slightly improve draw odds.
No more website crashes, Equal odds for everyone, More strategy, less chaos, But… more upfront financial commitment
Key Dates for Nonresident Hunters
Dec 5–15, 2025 - Application period for ALL nonresident deer & elk tags (general AND controlled).
Early January 2026 - Results announced for the first draw.
January 20, 2026 - Deadline to purchase your tag if successful (except DAV tags).
Feb 5–15, 2026 - Second application period for any tags not drawn or not purchased.
Early March 2026 - Results announced for the second draw.
March 20, 2026 - Deadline to purchase tags from the second draw (DAV included).
Once you have the nonresident hunting license, you can apply for:
- General-season deer and elk tags (now issued through the draw)
- All deer/elk/pronghorn controlled hunts
- Moose, sheep, and goat (if you choose that category instead)
- Returned/unsold tags
- Second-choice cycles in February/March
It’s the most flexible access structure Idaho has ever offered nonresidents.
DAV Tags
Reduced-fee DAV general tags get a separate draw. DAV hunters may also apply for standard nonresident tags but pay full price.
Junior Mentored Hunters
Must apply for elk in capped zones only. Uncapped elk tags and all deer tags remain OTC after the draw.
Lifetime License Holders
Former Idaho residents with lifetime licenses do not need to draw. They purchase when resident tags are released.
What This Means for Strategy
The shift from FCFS → Draw fundamentally changes how nonresidents should approach Idaho.
- You now need a true application strategy. The old system rewarded speed and luck while the new system rewards planning, prioritization, and understanding demand.
- You must know your elk zone before you apply.
- Your application allows up to five hunt choices, but you should rank them strategically. They will review everyone's first choice before moving on to the second choice.
- Expect demand to shift. Some historically “easy” zones will see more applicants and some historically “hard to buy” zones may see fewer.
2026 Idaho Elk Zone Popularity Forecast
(Our info is based on historical demand, FCFS behavior, zone desirability, herd performance, access, and expected draw behavior)
This section is available to members through our member newsletter.