Reading a Nevada Hunt Number Before You Apply

Applying for a big game tag in Nevada can feel like deciphering a secret code, especially when you're staring at a list of hunt choices like "2013" or "2115." These aren't just arbitrary numbers; they're the key to understanding exactly when and where you'll be hunting, and for what species. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the often-confusing structure of Nevada hunt numbers, ensuring you can confidently make your application choices and maximize your chances for success.

What Exactly Is a Nevada Hunt Number?

Many hunters, especially those new to Nevada's draw system or coming from states with simpler tag structures, find themselves scratching their heads when they first encounter Nevada hunt numbers. It's not just a permit number or a simple tag identifier; it's a concise, standardized code that encapsulates a surprising amount of critical information. Think of it as a fingerprint for a specific hunting opportunity. Without understanding what each digit represents, you might inadvertently apply for a different season, a different area, or even a different species than you intended, leading to a lot of frustration and wasted points.

Beyond Just a Number: A Code for Your Hunt

A Nevada hunt number is typically a four-digit code, sometimes followed by a letter or an additional two digits, depending on the complexity of the hunt. This string of characters is far more than an administrative convenience; it's a precise classification that tells you the general unit group, the specific species you're pursuing, and the type of weapon and timing of the hunt. For instance, a number might indicate a general season rifle hunt for mule deer in a large group of units, while another could specify an archery-only hunt for elk in a very particular management area during a narrow timeframe. Getting this right is paramount because once your application is submitted, there's no going back to correct a misinterpretation of a hunt number.

The beauty of this system, once you crack the code, is its efficiency. Instead of lengthy descriptions for every single hunt, these numbers provide an immediate snapshot. It allows the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) to manage thousands of applications and countless hunt opportunities across the state's vast and diverse landscapes with remarkable precision. For the hunter, it means that with a bit of learning, you can quickly scan a list of options and narrow down what's relevant to your hunting goals without getting bogged down in endless text.

Where You'll Encounter These Numbers

You'll encounter Nevada hunt numbers primarily in the annual Big Game Seasons and Application Guide, often referred to simply as "the regulations." This is the foundational document for anyone applying for big game in the state. Every single hunt available through the draw is listed with its corresponding hunt number, along with quota information, season dates, and unit boundaries.

Beyond the official regulations, these numbers are pervasive in online application portals, draw odds statistics, and even in discussions among seasoned Nevada hunters. When you're researching potential units or trying to gauge your chances of drawing, you'll be constantly referring to these codes. Websites like GoHunt, which specialize in western big game draw odds and research tools, will display hunt numbers prominently alongside their statistical breakdowns, helping you understand Where Nevada Publishes Hunt Draw Statistics. Furthermore, when you successfully draw a tag, your actual license will often include the hunt number as a primary identifier, linking your permit directly to the specific opportunity you were awarded. It's truly the universal language of Nevada's big game draw.

Decoding the Digits: Understanding the Unit

The very first part of any Nevada hunt number is all about location. Given that Nevada is the most federally owned state in the Lower 48 and spans a massive land area, breaking it down into manageable hunt units is essential. The initial digits of the hunt number tell you precisely which geographic area, or combination of areas, your potential hunt will take place in. This is critical because terrain, animal populations, and access can vary wildly from one unit to the next, even if they're geographically close.

The First Few Digits: Your Geographic Location

Typically, the first one to three digits of a Nevada hunt number refer to the Game Management Unit (GMU) or a group of units where the hunt is authorized. Nevada's units are numbered from 011 up through 291, generally moving from north to south and west to east. For example, units in the 01x-03x range are often found in the northern part of the state, while units like 25x or 26x are in southern Nevada.

It's vital to recognize that these unit numbers don't just represent arbitrary squares on a map. They are carefully defined areas, often delineated by distinct geographical features like mountain ranges, major highways, or county lines. When you see a hunt number starting with, say, "111," you immediately know that the hunt is centered around Unit 111. This initial identification is your first step in Reading a Nevada Hunt Unit Before You Apply and beginning your e-scouting efforts. Understanding this geographical context is crucial for envisioning the type of country you'll be hunting, from the high desert basins to the rugged mountain ranges.

Units vs. Unit Groups: A Critical Distinction

This is where many new applicants can get tripped up. While some hunt numbers refer to a single, specific unit (e.g., Hunt 1111 for Unit 111), many others refer to "unit groups." A unit group is a combination of two or more adjacent game management units, pooled together to create a larger hunting area. These groups are often used for general season hunts or where animal populations range across several smaller units.

For instance, you might see a hunt number that begins with "071-072," or simply a number that, when looked up in the regulations, points to "Units 071, 072, 073." This means your tag, if drawn, would be valid across all those units. It's important to understand How Nevada Unit Groups Combine because it significantly impacts the amount of land you can cover, the diversity of terrain, and potentially, the hunting pressure you might encounter. A larger unit group offers more flexibility to move around and find game, but it also means more ground to scout and potentially more hunters spread across that expanse. Always check the official regulations to confirm whether a hunt number refers to a single unit or a group, as relying solely on the first few digits can be misleading if you don't cross-reference.

Understanding Unit Boundaries and Their Impact

Knowing the unit or unit group is one thing, but truly understanding its boundaries is another. Nevada's hunt unit boundaries can be incredibly complex, following everything from subtle topographic features like drainages and ridges to clearly marked roads, power lines, and even county borders. A good understanding of these lines is not just about staying legal; it's about effective hunt planning.

Before you even think about applying, you should absolutely be studying unit maps. Tools like online mapping platforms are invaluable for this. They allow you to overlay unit boundaries onto satellite imagery and topographic maps, giving you a clear visual representation of the area. This helps you identify key access points, potential bedding areas, water sources like those discussed in Hunting Water in Nevada's Driest Country, and escape routes for game. Neglecting to meticulously study these boundaries can lead to frustrating situations, like realizing your carefully scouted hot spot is just across the unit line, or worse, inadvertently trespassing. Many hunters use applications like onX Hunt to precisely pinpoint where they are in relation to these crucial lines, ensuring they remain compliant and make the most of their chosen unit.

Decoding the Digits: Understanding the Species and Season

Once you've wrapped your head around the geographical component of the hunt number, the next crucial step is to decipher what species you'll be pursuing and, equally important, how and when you'll be doing it. This part of the hunt number essentially dictates your weapon choice and the timeframe you'll be in the field.

The Species Code: What You're Hunting

Following the unit or unit group identification, the hunt number will contain codes that specify the species you're applying for. While Nevada offers hunts for a variety of big game, including mule deer, elk, antelope, bighorn sheep, and even mountain goats and black bear, the hunt number system simplifies this into recognizable patterns.

For instance, hunts for mule deer often fall into certain numerical ranges, as do elk or antelope hunts. There isn't a single universal digit that always means "deer" or "elk"; instead, the combination of unit numbers and the subsequent digits will collectively indicate the species. It's a system of context. A hunt number like "2013" for Unit 201 might be for deer, while "2317" for Unit 231 could be for elk. The official NDOW regulations book will have a clear legend or breakdown of these codes, explicitly stating which numbers correspond to which species. Always refer back to this document. Never assume. This careful parsing of the number ensures you're not accidentally applying for a bighorn sheep tag when your heart is set on a bull elk.

The Season Type: Archery, Muzzleloader, Rifle

After the unit and species, the hunt number will specify the weapon type and general season. Nevada runs distinct seasons for archery, muzzleloader, and general rifle, each with its own set of rules, challenges, and opportunities. This is a critical distinction that profoundly impacts your hunting experience.

• Archery Hunts: These are often the earliest seasons, taking place in late summer or early fall, like the Nevada's August Archery Deer Window. They demand a higher level of skill and stealth, requiring hunters to get much closer to their quarry. The hunt number will reflect this, often through a specific digit or character sequence (e.g., an 'A' or a '1' in a certain position).
• Muzzleloader Hunts: These typically fall between archery and general rifle seasons, offering a unique blend of challenge and effective range. Nevada Elk Muzzleloader Timing by Unit shows these hunts have specific windows. The hunt numbers for muzzleloader hunts will similarly contain distinct identifiers. They often appeal to hunters who enjoy the historical aspect and added challenge of a traditional firearm without the full reach of a modern rifle.
• Rifle Hunts: These are the most common and often the latest seasons, spanning from early fall into winter. They generally offer the highest success rates due to the longer effective range of modern rifles. Hunt numbers for rifle seasons will also have their own specific identifiers. Understanding the nuances of Late Rifle Deer Seasons in Nevada is key for those seeking bigger bucks during the post-rut.

Misreading this part of the hunt number means showing up with the wrong weapon or missing the season entirely. You can imagine the heartbreak of drawing a tag only to discover it's for an archery season when you only own a rifle!

Specific Season Dates and Hunt Choices

Finally, the hunt number, or the entry it corresponds to in the regulations, will detail the exact season dates. This isn't usually encoded directly within the four-digit hunt number itself, but rather is provided alongside it in the regulations table. For instance, Hunt Number 2013 might clearly state "Oct 1 – Oct 15."

Furthermore, some hunt numbers might correspond to multiple "hunt choices" or subspecies options, especially in more complex draws like bighorn sheep. This is less common for general deer or elk, but it’s still something to be aware of. The full hunt number system allows for these granular distinctions. For example, a single overarching hunt group might have different hunt numbers for antlered deer, antlerless deer, or even for junior-only hunts. This specificity ensures that NDOW can manage harvest quotas precisely, directing hunter effort to achieve specific management objectives. Always confirm the exact dates and any special conditions listed directly next to the hunt number in the official regulation booklet to avoid any costly surprises.

Why Hunt Numbers Matter for the Draw

Understanding Nevada hunt numbers goes far beyond simply knowing what and where you're going to hunt. These numbers are the linchpin of the entire application and draw process, directly influencing your chances of success and preventing frustrating errors that could cost you points or even a coveted tag.

Directly Influencing Draw Odds

Each unique Nevada hunt number represents a distinct pool of tags, and therefore, a distinct set of draw odds. A hunt for antlerless elk in a general unit group will have vastly different odds than a trophy bull elk hunt in a premium unit. Even within the same unit, an archery hunt might have different odds than a rifle hunt, simply due to the differing number of applicants and available tags.

When you're researching potential hunts, resources like GoHunt or the official NDOW draw statistics will always present odds in relation to specific hunt numbers. You can't just look at "deer odds for Unit 111"; you need to look at "odds for Hunt Number 1113 (Unit 111, general rifle deer)." The level of detail embedded in these numbers ensures that the draw is fair and transparent, with each application choice being a distinct entity. Ignoring this granularity and just guessing at a hunt number or unit can lead to wildly inaccurate expectations about your chances, making it impossible to apply strategically. Understanding Why Nevada Draw Odds Vary So Much by Unit is a crucial step in building a successful application.

Point System Interaction with Hunt Choices

Nevada utilizes a bonus point system where applicants gain an additional entry in the draw for each year they apply and are unsuccessful. This system is designed to reward loyalty and persistence, and the hunt number you choose directly interacts with it. How Nevada's Squared Bonus Points Work means that your bonus points are squared before being added to your application, dramatically increasing your chances over time.

However, your bonus points are tied to the species, not a specific hunt number. So, if you're applying for deer, your deer points apply to any deer hunt number you choose. What does matter is your understanding of the hunt number's difficulty. If you consistently apply for hunt numbers with extremely low odds, even with maximum points, you might still struggle to draw. Conversely, if you're point-building, you might intentionally choose hunt numbers with very low draw odds, knowing you're unlikely to draw but will gain a point for the following year. The hunt number is the specific target for your accumulated points, and making informed choices is key to leveraging that advantage.

Avoiding Application Errors

Perhaps the most practical reason to master hunt numbers is to avoid costly application errors. The Nevada application process is entirely online, and you manually enter your hunt number choices. A simple typo, like entering "2013" instead of "2103," could result in applying for a completely different unit, species, or season. Given that Nevada Applications Run March 23 to May 13, you have a window, but corrections after the deadline are generally not allowed.

Imagine spending years accumulating points for a coveted elk tag, only to realize you accidentally applied for an antlerless deer hunt in a unit you've never even scouted. This happens more often than you'd think. The online system, while user-friendly, relies on the applicant to correctly input these codes. Double-checking every single digit against the official regulations, and potentially cross-referencing with a reputable source like GoHunt, is a non-negotiable step before finalizing your application. These errors aren't just frustrating; they waste valuable points and the non-refundable application fees.

Common Hunt Number Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Even with a good grasp of the basics, Nevada hunt numbers can still throw curveballs. Experienced hunters have learned through trial and error (and sometimes heartbreak) that there are specific traps to watch out for. Being aware of these common pitfalls can save you a lot of grief and ensure your application accurately reflects your hunting intentions.

Confusing Unit Groups with Individual Units

One of the most frequent mistakes is assuming a hunt number refers to a single unit when it actually corresponds to a unit group. For example, a hunter might see "Unit 111" mentioned frequently and assume hunt number "111X" is exclusively for that unit. However, the regulations might reveal that "111X" is actually for "Units 111, 112, 113."

This distinction is crucial. While a unit group offers more land, it can dilute your scouting efforts if you've focused intently on just one unit within that group. It also means potentially dealing with more varied terrain and more hunters. Always verify if the hunt number specifies a single unit or a combination. The "Hunt Unit Numbers and How They Combine" section in the official NDOW regulations is your definitive source for this. Don't rely on memory or hearsay; pull up the actual document and confirm every time. Understanding How Nevada Numbers Its Hunt Units can clarify this, but always cross-reference.

Overlooking Season Type Variations

Another major pitfall is overlooking the subtle differences in season types embedded within the hunt numbers. While the first few digits might identify the unit and species, the later digits are often the ones that distinguish between archery, muzzleloader, or rifle seasons. It’s easy to accidentally select a hunt number for an archery-only tag when you intended to apply for a general rifle season.

This can happen if you're rushing, or if the numerical difference between two season types is very small (e.g., 2013 for rifle vs. 2014 for muzzleloader). Imagine drawing a fantastic deer tag, only to realize it's for a muzzleloader season when your muzzleloader has been gathering dust in the garage for years, and you're not proficient with it. Or perhaps you planned for a warm weather August archery hunt, but drew a late-season rifle tag when temperatures plummet. Pay extremely close attention to the season type associated with each hunt number. Nevada Archery Deer Season Structure and Nevada Rifle Deer Season Timing provide ample information on these variations.

Misinterpreting Antlerless vs. Antlered Tags

For certain species, particularly deer and elk, Nevada offers both antlered (buck/bull) and antlerless (doe/cow) tags. These are almost always assigned different hunt numbers, even within the same unit and season type. Misinterpreting this can be a serious issue. Applying for an antlerless tag when you're dreaming of a trophy bull is a mistake that can derail your entire season.

Antlerless tags are generally easier to draw and serve specific management objectives, often aimed at controlling herd numbers or directing harvest pressure away from mature males. While they offer a valuable opportunity for meat hunting and can be a great way to experience a unit, they are not interchangeable with antlered tags. The hunt number will clearly distinguish between these options. Again, the official regulations are your best friend here. If you're looking for a specific type of animal, ensure the hunt number you select explicitly permits the harvest of that animal. This is especially true for limited entry hunts where every tag is a precious commodity.

Leveraging Hunt Numbers for Better Application Strategy

Once you've mastered the art of reading Nevada hunt numbers, you can turn this knowledge into a powerful strategic advantage. Understanding the granular details embedded in these codes allows you to make more informed decisions, enhancing your chances of drawing a desirable tag and planning a successful hunt.

Targeting Specific Units for High Odds

Not all units are created equal, and neither are all hunt numbers. By meticulously studying the draw odds associated with specific hunt numbers, you can identify opportunities that align with your point accumulation and hunting goals. Perhaps you're a nonresident looking for a general season deer tag with decent odds, rather than a trophy unit requiring decades of points. Or maybe you're willing to try for a less popular muzzleloader hunt in a good unit because the draw odds are slightly better.

For example, using data platforms like GoHunt, you can filter by species, weapon type, and even specific unit groups. This allows you to compare hunt number "1113" (rifle deer in units 111-113) against "1513" (rifle deer in units 151-153) and see which one has a better historical draw success rate for someone with your number of points. This strategic approach turns the lottery into a calculated risk. Understanding How Many Tags Nevada Issues Each Year for each hunt number is vital for this analysis.

Balancing Trophy Potential with Draw Success

Every hunter dreams of that Boone & Crockett animal, but in Nevada's competitive draw, that often means applying for hunt numbers with abysmal odds. A strategic hunter uses hunt numbers to balance this desire for a trophy with the realistic goal of actually drawing a tag.

This might mean forgoing the "glamour" hunt numbers in well-known trophy units (like Unit 162 for elk, known for its record book bulls) and instead applying for hunt numbers in units that are less renowned but still hold solid populations of quality animals. For example, a hunt number for a later rifle deer season in a less pressured unit might offer a better chance at a mature buck than an early season rifle hunt in a high-demand unit, even if the absolute "trophy potential" is slightly lower. It's about finding that sweet spot where you have a reasonable chance of drawing a tag for a hunt that still excites you. It’s also wise to consider Why Late Seasons Produce Bigger Bucks when weighing options.

Planning for Multi-Species Applications

Nevada allows you to apply for multiple species in a single draw period, though you can only draw one tag per species. For a dedicated hunter, strategically selecting hunt numbers for various species can be a way to maximize your chances of hunting something each year.

You might prioritize your first choice for a dream elk hunt number (e.g., 2317 for a premium bull elk unit), knowing the odds are low. Then, for your second or third choices, you could select a mule deer hunt number (e.g., 1013 for a more accessible unit) with higher, more realistic odds. This diversified approach hedges your bets. The application process will guide you through entering your choices for each species, but it's your understanding of the individual hunt numbers and their associated odds that allows you to construct a truly effective multi-species strategy. Don't forget that Nevada Applications Run March 23 to May 13, so ensure all your choices are well-researched before the deadline.

Tools and Resources for Understanding Hunt Numbers

While the official regulations are your bible, navigating the complexities of Nevada's hunt numbers is made infinitely easier with the right tools and resources. These supplementary aids can help you quickly decode numbers, visualize hunt areas, and make data-driven application choices.

NDOW Regulations: Your Primary Source

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) Big Game Seasons and Application Guide is, without a doubt, your foundational document. Every single piece of information regarding hunt numbers, unit boundaries, season dates, and specific rules is contained within this annually updated guide. You can usually find it as a downloadable PDF on the NDOW website.

Think of it as the master key to the entire system. While other resources are incredibly helpful, they are all ultimately based on the information found in this official publication. When in doubt, or if you encounter conflicting information, always default to the NDOW regulations. It's a dense read, but an essential one, and the tables listing hunt numbers alongside their corresponding units, species, and season dates are indispensable. Taking the time to truly read and understand The Nevada Big Game Seasons Document can save you from application blunders and deepen your understanding of the state's hunting landscape.

Online Mapping Tools and Draw Odds Calculators

In the age of digital information, online mapping platforms and draw odds calculators have become indispensable for Western big game hunters. These tools take the raw data from NDOW and present it in a much more digestible and interactive format.

• Online Mapping Tools: Platforms like onX Hunt, BaseMap, or Gaia GPS allow you to view public and private land boundaries, topo maps, and crucially, hunt unit overlays. This means you can visually see the boundaries of a unit (e.g., Hunt Unit 111) and how it relates to terrain features, roads, and water sources. Some even integrate hunt numbers directly into their layers, letting you click on an area and see the associated hunt information. This visual aid is incredibly helpful for E-Scouting a Nevada Unit Before the Season and truly understanding the physical landscape tied to a hunt number.
• Draw Odds Calculators: Services like GoHunt provide sophisticated draw odds calculators that take historical draw data, applicant numbers, and tag quotas to predict your chances of drawing a specific hunt number based on your points. They allow you to input your bonus points for a species and then sort hunt numbers by success rate, trophy potential, or specific dates. This empowers you to make data-driven choices, balancing risk and reward when selecting your hunt numbers.

These tools don't replace the regulations, but they make the process of digesting and applying that information infinitely more efficient and insightful.

Community Forums and Expert Insights

Finally, don't underestimate the value of community and expert knowledge. Online hunting forums, social media groups dedicated to Nevada hunting, and reputable hunting publications often feature discussions and articles that break down hunt numbers and application strategies.

While you should always cross-reference any advice with official sources, these communities can offer nuanced insights, recent observations about unit conditions, and practical tips that aren't found in any regulation book. You might hear seasoned hunters discussing which hunt numbers are "sleeper" units, or how recent weather patterns might affect a specific season type identified by a hunt number. Just remember to approach these sources with a critical eye, as anecdotal evidence can sometimes be misleading. However, they can provide a valuable layer of real-world context to the otherwise dry data of hunt numbers.

Real-World Examples of Hunt Number Breakdown

Let's put all this theory into practice with some common examples of Nevada hunt numbers. By breaking down a few typical codes, you'll see how the system works and gain confidence in decoding these critical identifiers yourself.

Mule Deer Hunt Number Example: 1113

Let's take a common mule deer hunt number you might see in the regulations: 1113.

• 111: The first three digits, "111," almost always refer to the Game Management Unit. In this case, it indicates Unit 111. You would immediately know you're looking at a hunt in a specific geographical area. Consulting the NDOW regulations or an online mapping tool would show you exactly where Unit 111 is located, its boundaries, and its general topography (likely high desert with some mountain ranges common in the Basin and Range province).
• 3: The last digit, "3," often corresponds to the season type. In many Nevada deer hunt number conventions, a "3" indicates a general season rifle hunt. This means you'll be hunting with a rifle, and the season dates will likely fall in the late fall, post-rut or during the migration, often offering prime opportunities for bigger bucks.

So, when you see 1113, you can quickly deduce that this is a General Season Rifle Hunt for Mule Deer in Unit 111. This clear understanding is crucial for both applying and planning your hunt logistics, from weapon choice to scouting strategy, as well as checking When Nevada Rifle Deer Seasons Fall.

Elk Hunt Number Example: 2317

Now, let's look at an elk hunt: 2317.

• 231: Similar to the deer example, "231" identifies the primary Game Management Unit. Unit 231 is located in a different region of the state than Unit 111, likely known for its elk populations. You'd use your mapping tools to pinpoint this unit and understand its specific characteristics, such as timbered slopes, open meadows, or the elevation bands where elk thrive.
• 7: The "7" in this position typically denotes an elk hunt, and sometimes specifies a general season for bulls. In many Nevada hunt number schemas, the higher numbers in the last digit can differentiate between bull, cow, or specific weapon types for elk. For this example, let's assume "7" means a general season rifle bull hunt.

Thus, 2317 would translate to a General Season Rifle Bull Elk Hunt in Unit 231. This knowledge is critical for understanding the challenge, potential trophy quality, and the specific rules (e.g., antler point restrictions) that might apply to a bull elk hunt in Nevada, especially in units known for record-book animals. Checking When Nevada Elk Rifle Seasons Open for this specific number would be your next step.

Antelope Hunt Number Example: 0612

Finally, consider an antelope hunt number: 0612.

• 061: The "061" identifies the unit. Nevada's antelope typically inhabit the more open, flatter basin and range country. So, Unit 061 would likely be a vast, relatively flat expanse of sagebrush and grasslands. This immediately informs your scouting approach: think long-range glassing and strategic stalks across open terrain, like those methods discussed in Spot and Stalk Antelope on Nevada's Open Flats.
• 2: The "2" in this position, following the species identifier (antelope is often implicitly understood by the unit + the final digit in specific numerical ranges), could signify an early season rifle hunt for buck antelope. Antelope seasons are often shorter and earlier than deer or elk.

Therefore, 0612 would represent an Early Season Rifle Buck Antelope Hunt in Unit 061. This particular hunt number signifies a faster-paced hunt, often in hot conditions, focused on locating and stalking pronghorn on the vast plains. The specific timing of Nevada Antelope Season Dates would be confirmed directly from the regulations for this hunt number.

By examining these examples, it becomes clear that while the system can seem opaque at first glance, a consistent logic underlies the construction of Nevada hunt numbers. Always cross-reference with the official NDOW guide, but with practice, you'll be decoding these numbers like a pro.

Digit Position	Common Interpretation	Example (from 1113)	What it tells you
1st – 3rd	Game Management Unit(s)	111	Geographical hunt area (e.g., Unit 111)
4th	Species/Season Type	3	General season rifle hunt for deer

Note: This table provides a simplified overview. The exact interpretation of each digit can vary slightly by species and year, so always consult the current NDOW regulations for precise definitions.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this guide is for general informational purposes only and is subject to change. Hunting regulations, season dates, and hunt numbers are determined by the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) and can be updated annually. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, hunters are solely responsible for consulting the most current official NDOW Big Game Seasons and Application Guide and other relevant state and federal regulations before applying for any tag or engaging in hunting activities. Always prioritize official sources for critical information.