BOISE, ID — The Idaho Department of Fish and Game has announced a major change in how nonresident hunters can obtain general season deer and elk tags for the 2026 hunting season. Beginning this year, the agency will move away from the traditional first-come, first-served model and implement a drawing system for nonresident tags.
The application period for the new drawing will open December 5 and close December 15, 2025. Results will be made available in early January 2026. Nonresident hunters who are selected will have until January 20 to purchase their tags.
A second application period is scheduled for February 5–15, 2026, for any remaining tags that were not drawn or not purchased. Results from the second draw will be released in early March, with a final purchase deadline of March 20.
To apply, nonresidents must first purchase a 2026 nonresident hunting license. Idaho Fish and Game emphasized that unsuccessful applicants will not receive refunds, but may still apply for controlled hunt tags in addition to participating in the drawing for general season tags.
More details on the application process are expected to be released by September. Hunters are encouraged to monitor the Idaho Fish and Game website for updates: https://idfg.idaho.gov.
For those planning to hunt in Idaho next year, staying informed and planning ahead will be key as the state transitions to this new tag allocation system.
