11 CALL: 1.888.805.5400 EMAIL: [email protected] VISIT: wtatags.com Each fall, hunters from around the world converge on the Western U.S. with one goal in mind, harvesting the majestic - Rocky Mountain elk. A mature bull, often reaching eight years old and weighing nearly 800 pounds, is seasoned with knowledge from previous hunters’ shortfalls and is a master at traversing the mountainous landscape unnoticed. The challenges encountered only sweeten the taste of success. Elk are a species that eventually consumes almost all of us. They send us down the daunting path of: how do I hunt in the finest areas more often, with the best outfitters, at a fair and justifiable price point? The answer is simple - apply for tags! Across the west each state issues its most sought-after tags through an annual limited-entry draw process that requires sportsmen to apply for tags. These draw systems vastly vary from state-to-state and continue to evolve. Certain states work great for hunters of every mindset while others should not even be considered. Another key element is applying into the right units. It is simple to find each state’s most desired area, but be warned, these will often come with dismal draw odds. Truly understanding the up-and-coming, as well as underrated draw units will monumentally improve draw odds. The sheer amount of research that goes into applying for tags can be daunting, but the quality of hunts available demands the draws not be overlooked. This is where expertise of WTA TAGS can assist you. For 20+ years WTA TAGS has been successfully drawing these top-tier tags, on behalf of our clients, and arranging the necessary outfitting services that are needed to maximize such incredible opportunities. The dedicated team of Consultants and Application Specialists immerse themselves in research and data, year- round, all in the name of delivering the finest services and fulfilling your dreams. Clients who utilize WTA TAGS can expect a strategic and well-thought-out strategy that is designed specifically for you by your appointed Consultant. Your Consultant will be able to select and apply you into the ideal areas or utilize your preferred choices, this is up to you. Once drawn, TAGS can pair you with the right outfitter that specializes in the area drawn and best aligns with your expectations. This outfitter network was developed with a boots on the ground approach. TAGS Consultants have driven countless miles and spent thousands of days afield to ensure recommendations are spot-on. WTA TAGS Must Apply Elk States • Arizona: Each year Arizona produces some of the largest bulls in the US. Do not overlook the late rifle hunts here, great bulls are taken yearly and draw odds are vastly improved over the early hunts. • Colorado: This is an opportunity state, meaning a plethora of options are available to get you into the field but true trophy hunts, for applicants with 3-10 preference points, are extremely limited. Planning ahead and relying on the WTA TAGS outfitter network is key. • New Mexico: From high success hunts for quality bulls with great draw odds to the famed “Gila” region, NM has it all. With 100% random draw odds you could potentially draw the tag of a lifetime the first year you apply. • Wyoming: Wyoming is the most underrated elk destination in the West. From the world-class “general” ranches in the Southeastern portion of the state to the top-tier limited quota areas to the horseback hunts being conducted in the wilderness, Wyoming has a hunt that will appeal to everyone. Other Elk States To Consider • Nevada: With the low number of non-resident elk tags available in the Silver State it can easily take two decades or more to draw. However, if drawn, this state can easily produce 360" – 400" bulls. And with a squared bonus point system, Nevada offers the best point system in the West. • Utah: Like Nevada, Utah also offers non-residents a dismal number of premium limited-entry draw tags. However, also like in Nevada, Utah holds tremendous quality for the lucky applicant. We typically recommend applying in both states if under 50 years of age. You can’t draw if you don’t apply! Drawing a premium limited-entry bull elk tag in any of these states, will positively impact the price point of a fully guided hunt. Upon drawing, you will often find outfitters charging less than $9,000. When you consider the quality of hunt/unit, drawing a tag offers, by far, the best value in the world of elk hunting. In closing, if you are considering applying for the first time and seek consultation services or have been building points all over the West for years and now require assistance with area and outfitter selection, WTA TAGS can help. Please call today and ask to speak with a WTA TAGS Consultant. A well-structured conversation, with a professional team that does this for a living can take your hunting adventures to the next level. We can be reached Monday – Friday from 8AM – 5PM MST – 1-888-805-5400. LIMITED-ENTRY BULL ELK HUNTING BY ERIK SCHELL WTA TAGS CONSULTANT
