Idaho Nonresident Tag Draw 2026 Explained | Elk, Deer & Pronghorn Application Changes You Need to Know

Idaho Nonresident Tag Draw 2026 Explained | Elk, Deer & Pronghorn Application Changes You Need to Know

How to Apply for Idaho Big-Game Tags in 2026 (Non-Resident Guide)

Welcome to Backbone Unlimited. My name is Matt Hartsky. This article is part two in our ongoing series on how to apply for big game tags across the Western states. Today we’re talking about Idaho—elk, mule deer, and pronghorn—and what’s changing heading into the 2026 season.

Idaho stands out for one main reason: it does not use a preference-point or bonus-point system for general deer and elk tags. Every application stands alone. Your odds reset every year.

Historically, non-resident general tags were sold first-come, first-served. The result was a mad dash every December, overloaded web queues, and a lot of frustrated hunters. Beginning with the 2026 season, that system is gone. Idaho has moved general non-resident deer and elk tags into a structured draw.

Below is a clean breakdown of how the new system works and how to give yourself the best chance of securing a tag.

The New General Tag Draw System

Idaho now runs two application windows for non-resident general deer and elk tags.

Application Windows

Primary Draw

  • Apply: December 5–15, 2025

  • Results Posted: Early January 2026

  • Claim Deadline: January 20, 2026

Second-Chance Draw

  • Apply: February 5–15, 2026

  • Results Posted: Early March 2026

  • Claim Deadline: March 20, 2026

Any tags not claimed by the deadlines are forfeited and roll into later opportunities.

What You Need Before You Apply

You must have a valid 2026 Idaho hunting license before submitting a general tag application. That license is non-refundable, so consider it the cost of entry.

Each application allows:

  • Up to 5 hunt choices per species

  • Group applications of up to 4 hunters

If a group application is drawn and the zone has enough quota, the entire group receives tags.

There is still a separate controlled-hunt draw (later in spring), and applying for general tags does not prevent you from entering those controlled hunts.

This new general-tag draw format levels the playing field. No more web-based stampede—success now depends on preparation rather than reaction.

Understanding Idaho Elk Zones (A-Tag vs. B-Tag)

Idaho elk hunting is organized into 28 zones, and most zones offer:

  • A-Tag: More archery/muzzleloader options, sometimes more liberal seasons

  • B-Tag: Often rifle-focused, fewer tags, later season options

Some zones are capped, meaning total quotas are limited across residents, non-residents, and outfitter-allocated tags. Others are uncapped.

Your job:
Pick a zone, decide A-Tag or B-Tag, and build a backup plan. You can list multiple choices, and you should—especially if you’re chasing a high-demand zone.

A good strategy:

  1. Choose your top zone and A/B tag.

  2. Add a second realistic alternative.

  3. Use all five hunt choices if you have multiple viable options.

  4. Only apply for units you can realistically hunt based on access, fitness, and time.

Don’t build a plan around a dream tag you can’t execute.

Mule Deer Applications

Idaho’s mule deer structure is unique. There are general tags, but they are unit-specific and capped for non-residents.

This is different from states like Wyoming or Montana where general tags let you roam across broad regions. In Idaho, your tag locks you into one unit.

Key notes:

  • Apply in December (primary) and February (secondary), same as elk.

  • Up to five choices.

  • If you don’t draw, you can still apply for controlled hunts in May or monitor the return tag sales.

How to choose a unit:

  • Study weapon type, season dates, and caps.

  • Look at harvest stats from recent years.

  • Balance success rates, hunter pressure, and buck-to-doe ratios.

  • Consider your preferred season window: early, pre-rut, or rut.

Always have at least two backup units ready to go.

Pronghorn Applications

Pronghorn is straightforward—there are no general tags.

All hunts are controlled hunts. No points. Just a straight lottery.

  • Application Window: May 1–June 5

  • Results: Early July

  • Non-resident allocation allows up to 10% of tags, but that is a cap—not a guarantee.

You may only apply for one species group in controlled hunts. If you apply for pronghorn, you cannot apply for controlled deer or elk that same year.

Strategy is simple:
Stay flexible and be realistic. Odds are tough because tag numbers are low and there’s no point system.

If you draw pronghorn, you’ve earned a rare and exciting Idaho hunt.

Return Tag Sales: Best Second-Chance Opportunity in the West

Idaho offers one of the most hunter-friendly second-chance systems.

Unclaimed or returned general tags go into scheduled return-tag sales throughout the spring and summer, released at 10:00 AM Mountain Time.

These are first-come, first-served, and they go fast. If you stay on top of these releases, you can consistently pick up quality tags after the draw periods.

Pro tips:

  • Be logged in early.

  • Have payment method ready.

  • Know your zone choices in advance.

  • Have a backup if your first selection disappears.

Track sales over time and you’ll see patterns. Certain elk zones and deer units routinely reappear.

For many hunters, return tags are what save the season.

Step-By-Step: How to Apply

  1. Create/update GoOutdoorsIdaho account

  2. Verify certifications (hunter ed; archery if needed)

  3. Purchase your 2026 hunting license

  4. Identify target zones + hunt codes

  5. Apply during December window

  6. Use up to five hunt choices

  7. Screenshot your confirmation

  8. Check results + claim by deadline

  9. If unsuccessful, apply in second window

  10. Watch for controlled hunts + return tag sales

Treat this process like a professional application—accurate and on time.

Key Takeaways

  • No point system. Everyone starts fresh each year.

  • Two application windows.

  • You must buy a non-refundable hunting license before applying.

  • Mule deer units are capped and unit-specific.

  • Elk requires choosing a zone plus A-Tag or B-Tag.

  • Pronghorn is controlled-hunt only.

  • Return tag sales are a major second-chance opportunity.

Idaho rewards preparation. Learn the dates. Build backup plans. Stay adaptable. If you do that, Idaho can be a consistent part of your western hunting rotation.

Building Idaho Into Your Annual Plan

  1. Decide your species and zone priorities early.

  2. Budget for license and application fees ahead of time.

  3. Track all key deadlines with reminders.

  4. Stay flexible—multiple units, multiple weapon types.

  5. Keep notes each year to build long-term knowledge.

You don’t need luck. You just need execution.

Final Thoughts

Idaho gives non-resident hunters a real shot at elk, mule deer, and pronghorn every single year if they pay attention. This new draw format brings order to what used to be a chaotic December sprint. If you’re disciplined about your preparation—license purchased, choices selected, backup plans ready—you’ll be ahead of most applicants.

Successful applicants aren’t lucky. They’re prepared.

TRAIN HARDER. HUNT SMARTER. NEVER SETTLE.
— MATT HARTSKY

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