For hunters in Utah who missed out on the big game drawing earlier this year, there’s still a shot to hit the fields and forests this fall. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is rolling out a final opportunity to snag permits for deer, elk, and bison hunts, starting July 8, 2025. These permits are up for grabs on a first-come, first-served basis, so anyone looking to harvest their own meat or chase the thrill of the hunt needs to act fast. With specific sale dates for different permits and a few key requirements, here’s everything hunters need to know to secure their spot in Utah’s 2025 big game season.
A Second Chance for Utah Hunters
The DWR’s annual big game permit sale is a lifeline for hunters who didn’t draw a buck deer or bull elk permit during the initial lottery earlier in 2025. Starting at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, July 8, a range of permits will hit the market, giving hunters another shot at bagging deer, elk, or even bison. Unlike the drawing process, which relies on luck and preference points, these permits are first-come, first-served, meaning speed and preparation are everything. Whether someone’s after a trophy bull elk or aiming to fill the freezer with venison, this sale is the last chance to join Utah’s 2025 big game hunts.
Hunters need to have a valid Utah hunting or combination license before they can purchase any of these permits. This is a non-negotiable requirement, so anyone planning to jump into the sale should ensure their license is current. Licenses can be bought online, at DWR offices, or through licensed agents across the state. For those new to the process or looking to mentor a young hunter, this sale also includes youth-specific permits, making it a great opportunity to pass down the hunting tradition.
Permit Sale Dates and Types
The DWR has staggered the permit sales to keep things organized and give hunters a clear shot at their preferred hunts. Here’s the breakdown of what’s available and when:
- July 8, 2025, at 8 a.m.: General-season archery elk permits for both adults and youth, as well as general-season buck deer and youth archery deer permits, go on sale. The archery elk permits are unlimited, which means there’s no cap on how many are available, giving hunters a better chance to secure one. Youth permits are open to hunters 17 or younger as of July 31, 2025, and are valid for all general-season elk hunts, except on limited-entry units.
- July 10, 2025, at 8 a.m.: General-season any-bull elk and spike bull elk permits become available. These permits are capped, so they’re likely to sell out quickly, often within hours, due to high demand.
The DWR emphasizes that hunters should double-check the sale dates for the specific permits they’re after. Missing the start time could mean missing out entirely, especially for the limited any-bull and spike bull elk permits. To make things easier, the DWR’s online permit sales site will show real-time availability after the sales begin, but the numbers won’t be updated on their main permit page once the sale kicks off.
Where and How to Buy Permits
Hunters have three options for purchasing these permits: online, at DWR regional offices, or through licensed agents across Utah. The online portal, accessible at the DWR’s licensing website, is the most convenient option for many. However, the DWR has set up a virtual waiting room to manage the expected high traffic, so hunters need to be patient and avoid refreshing or navigating away from the queue page. Doing so could bump them to the back of the line, delaying their chance to grab a permit.
For those who prefer an in-person experience, DWR offices and licensed agents are solid alternatives. The catch is that not all agents operate at 8 a.m. when the sales start, so hunters should call ahead to verify hours of operation. A list of licensed agents is available on the DWR website, making it easy to find a nearby location. Whether online or in-person, having a valid hunting or combination license ready is critical, as permits can’t be purchased without one.
Preparing for the Hunt
Before diving into the permit sale, hunters should do their homework. The DWR strongly recommends reviewing the 2025 Utah Big Game Field Regulations Guidebook, which outlines all the rules, hunt boundaries, and specific requirements for the season. This guidebook is available online, at DWR offices, or through the Utah Hunting and Fishing app, which is a handy tool for keeping regulations and maps at your fingertips. The guidebook also includes updates, like changes to restricted weapon hunts on certain units, which could affect planning.
Another must-use resource is the Utah Hunt Planner, an interactive online map that provides detailed information on hunt units, including biologist notes, population stats, and access points. Whether someone’s chasing elk in the mountains or deer in the desert, the Hunt Planner helps pinpoint the best spots and understand the terrain. For hunters new to a unit or species, this tool can make the difference between a successful trip and a frustrating one.
Why This Sale Matters
This final permit sale isn’t just about getting a tag—it’s about opportunity. Utah’s big game hunts offer a chance to experience the state’s rugged landscapes, from the high peaks of the Wasatch Range to the sprawling deserts of the south. For many, it’s also about putting food on the table, as a single deer or elk can provide months’ worth of high-quality meat. The DWR’s Wildlife Licensing Coordinator, Lindy Varney, highlights the added bonus of mentoring youth during these hunts, making it a way to share the outdoors with the next generation.
The first-come, first-served nature of the sale adds urgency, especially for the capped permits like any-bull and spike bull elk, which tend to sell out fast. Hunters who’ve been skunked in the drawing or missed the application window back in March and April can still make 2025 a memorable season. With favorable weather conditions and healthy deer and elk populations reported by the DWR, this year’s hunts could be particularly rewarding.
Tips for Success
To maximize their chances, hunters should prepare in advance. Here are a few practical steps:
- Get Your License Early: Make sure your hunting or combination license is valid before the sale starts. You can purchase one online or at a DWR office if needed.
- Plan Your Purchase: Decide which permits you’re targeting and mark the sale dates (July 8 for archery and deer, July 10 for any-bull and spike elk). Set a reminder for 8 a.m. to be ready when sales open.
- Use the Online Portal Wisely: When buying online, stay in the virtual waiting room and avoid refreshing the page. Have your payment information ready to complete the purchase quickly.
- Check Agent Hours: If you’re buying in-person, confirm the hours of your nearest licensed agent or DWR office to avoid showing up when they’re closed.
- Study the Guidebook and Hunt Planner: Know the rules and scout your hunting unit ahead of time to plan your trip effectively.
Looking Ahead
Utah’s 2025 big game permit sale is the final call for hunters hoping to take to the field this fall. With permits available for deer, elk, and bison, and options for both adults and youth, there’s something for everyone. The DWR’s efforts to manage wildlife populations, combined with tools like the Hunt Planner and updated guidebooks, set hunters up for success. Whether it’s the thrill of stalking a bull elk or the satisfaction of harvesting a buck deer, this sale is the gateway to an unforgettable season. Hunters should act quickly, stay prepared, and get ready to make the most of Utah’s wild spaces in 2025.
For more details, check the DWR website or contact a regional office. Happy hunting!
