The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has rolled out significant updates for the 2025 elk hunting season on the National Elk Refuge (NER), located in Elk Hunt Area 77 near Jackson, Wyoming. These changes, designed to better manage the elk population and spread out the harvest among migrating herds, bring new opportunities and rules for hunters. From adjusted season dates to a brand-new license type and a revamped permission slip process, here’s everything hunters need to know to plan their 2025 elk hunting adventure.
New Season Dates for 2025
The 2025 elk hunting season on the National Elk Refuge will run from November 1 to December 19, offering hunters a solid window to pursue elk in one of Wyoming’s most iconic hunting grounds. The season is structured to balance harvest opportunities while protecting the elk population and ensuring a sustainable hunt. Here’s how the dates break down:
- November 1–26: Hunters with a general elk license or any unused limited-quota license (except Type 8) can apply for a permission slip to hunt antlerless elk. This period focuses on harvesting cows to help manage herd numbers.
- November 27–30: A special youth-only hunt takes place during this four-day window, coinciding with the Thanksgiving school break. Only hunters with full-price youth licenses (Type 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, or General) can apply for a permission slip to hunt any elk, giving young hunters a chance to take either a bull or a cow.
- December 1–5: Another period opens for hunters with a general elk license or unused limited-quota license (except Type 8) to apply for a permission slip to hunt antlerless elk.
- December 8–19: This final stretch is reserved exclusively for hunters holding the new Hunt Area 77 Type 6 license, who can apply for a permission slip to hunt cow or calf elk. Unlike other periods, permission slips for this window can be obtained anytime from November 1 to December 19.
To make the season more manageable, hunt periods are split into Monday–Thursday (four days) and Friday–Sunday (three days) blocks. Hunters can find a complete list of specific hunt periods on the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s website, ensuring they pick the right dates for their trip.
Introducing the Type 6 License
One of the biggest changes for 2025 is the introduction of the Hunt Area 77 Type 6 license, a new option specifically for hunting cow or calf elk on the National Elk Refuge from December 8 to December 19. This license is a game-changer for hunters looking to extend their season into mid-December. Those holding a Type 6 license can secure a permission slip for this period at any time between November 1 and December 19, offering flexibility for late-season hunters. This addition aims to focus the harvest on specific segments of the elk population, helping to balance herd dynamics while giving hunters more opportunities to fill their tags.
How the Permission Slip Process Works
Hunting on the National Elk Refuge requires a permission slip, and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department has tweaked the application process for 2025 to make it more accessible while maintaining fairness. There are two ways to secure a permission slip: the initial draw and weekly alternate draws.
Initial Draw
The initial draw is the first chance for hunters to snag a permission slip. Applications open on August 1 at 8 a.m. and close on September 18 at 11:59 p.m. Hunters can apply online through the National Elk Refuge Elk Hunter Management Area page on the Wyoming Game and Fish website. During this draw, each hunter is limited to applying for one hunt period to ensure everyone gets a fair shot. However, after the draw results are posted on September 19 at 8 a.m., any leftover permission slips become available on a first-come, first-served basis, giving hunters a second chance to grab a spot.
Weekly Alternate Draws
For those who miss out on the initial draw or want additional opportunities, the alternate draw system offers weekly chances to apply for permission slips. From October 20 to November 27, hunters can submit one application per week. These application windows open every Monday at 8 a.m. and close on Thursday at 11:59 p.m. Results are posted each Friday at 8 a.m., letting hunters know if they’ve secured a slip for the upcoming hunt periods. Any remaining slips after the weekly results are released are also offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so hunters need to act fast.
This dual-draw system ensures more hunters can access the Refuge while preventing overcrowding and maintaining a quality hunting experience. Whether planning months in advance or jumping on a last-minute opportunity, the process is designed to be straightforward and fair.
Key Rules and Requirements
As in previous years, the National Elk Refuge enforces strict rules to protect both hunters and the elk population. Hunters are limited to harvesting one elk per day, ensuring sustainable management of the herd. Additionally, chronic wasting disease (CWD) sampling is mandatory for all harvested elk. This means hunters must submit samples from their harvest to help monitor and manage the spread of CWD, a critical step in protecting Wyoming’s wildlife. Before heading out, hunters should review the full list of ranch rules on the Wyoming Game and Fish website to avoid any issues during their hunt.
Why These Changes Matter
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department made these updates to better distribute the elk harvest across different segments of the migrating herd. By adjusting season dates, introducing the Type 6 license, and refining the permission slip process, the department aims to reduce pressure on specific elk populations while maximizing opportunities for hunters. The youth-only hunt period encourages the next generation to get involved in hunting, while the extended late-season window for Type 6 license holders gives seasoned hunters a chance to pursue cow or calf elk in December. These changes reflect a careful balance between conservation and providing a rewarding hunting experience.
Planning Your 2025 Elk Hunt
For hunters eager to hit the National Elk Refuge in 2025, preparation is key. Start by checking the Wyoming Game and Fish website for the full list of hunt periods and application details. Make sure to mark your calendar for the initial draw (August 1–September 18) and the weekly alternate draws (October 20–November 27). If you’re interested in the late-season hunt, consider applying for the new Type 6 license to take advantage of the December 8–19 period. And don’t forget to review the ranch rules and ensure you’re set up for mandatory CWD sampling.
The National Elk Refuge, located in the heart of Elk Hunt Area 77, offers a unique chance to hunt in one of Wyoming’s most scenic and elk-rich areas. With these new changes, hunters have more flexibility and opportunities than ever to plan a successful trip. Whether you’re chasing an antlerless elk in early November or aiming for a cow with a Type 6 license in mid-December, the 2025 season is shaping up to be an exciting one for elk hunters.
For more information or to apply for a permission slip, visit the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s National Elk Refuge Elk Hunter Management Area webpage or call the Jackson Regional Office at (307) 733-2321. Get ready for a hunt that combines stunning scenery, challenging terrain, and the thrill of pursuing one of North America’s most majestic big game animals.
