Understanding the Basics of Big Game Hunting Tags, Draws, Lotteries, and the Point System

In my industry, there are always people talking about putting in for a lottery to hunt particular wild game animals, and I have even participated in these lotteries. I have to admit, though, I didn’t really understand how it all works and why this process is necessary. I did a lot of research, and I’m going to break down the basics for others who are afraid to ask like I was.

The big game license draws, or lotteries, are all about the conservation of the species. In each state, authorities determine the number of animals that can be removed from the population without harming the ecosystem. Based on the available number of animals, tags will be issued, or the particular game season will be cancelled.

There are several ways tags are rationed depending on the number of tags the authorities are willing to issue. In most states, over-the-counter (OTC) tags are available for game, such as whitetail deer, which are abundant in supply. OTC tags can be purchased in any sporting goods store or licensed vendor.

Sometimes there may be a cap on the number of tags sold, which is common with whitetail doe tags. These tags are sold on a first-come, first-served basis until all tags are sold.

When demand exceeds the supply of a particular wild game, a tag draw is necessary. There are three draw systems used. Here’s the run-down:

1)      Lotteries AKA “Pure” Lottery- Every hunter who applies has the same exact chance of getting drawn.

2)      Bonus Points- Each year, a hunter who applies and is unsuccessful at drawing a tag receives a bonus point. The following year, that hunter applies and gets an additional entry for every bonus point that’s been accumulated. Once a hunter is finally drawn, which could be 30 years later, his/her bonus points return back to zero.

3)      Preference Points- Each year a hunter applies and is unsuccessful, they will receive a preference point. Preference points differ from bonus points in that preference point systems automatically allocate all or some of the available tags to those with the most points. Once a hunter is drawn, all his/her points return to zero.

Of course, this is just a basic explanation, not taking into account full management specifications such as tags issued for either-sex animals, or for bull only, or the number of preference point holders.

The rules vary from state to state and season to season. There is also the issue of Resident vs. Non-Resident when allocating tags. Some states only allow a certain percentage of tags to go to non-residents or non-residents using licensed guides- if any non-resident tags are issued at all.

There are many pros/cons regarding the point system from state to state, but seasoned veterans still recommend applying for as many tags as they can each year. You will eventually end up with your dream hunt!!