The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources released information on August 14 regarding the upcoming 2026 deer and elk hunts. The announcement provides essential details for hunters planning for the fall season, including specific hunt dates and population updates.
Several big game hunts are scheduled to begin on Saturday, Aug. 15, including the general-season archery buck deer hunt and the general-season archery spike and any-bull elk hunts. Other upcoming dates include the general-season muzzleloader buck deer hunt from Sept. 23 to Oct. 1, and the general-season any legal weapon spike-bull elk hunt from Oct. 3-15.
Other scheduled hunts include the early-season any legal weapon any-bull elk hunt from Oct. 3-9, the late-season any legal weapon any-bull elk hunt from Oct. 10-16, the general-season any legal weapon buck deer hunt from Oct. 17-25, and the general-season muzzleloader elk hunt from Oct. 28 to Nov. 5.
Regarding deer populations, mule deer numbers are showing positive trends across much of Utah due to strong fawn production and high survival rates. In northern Utah, herds have rebounded quickly with high fawn-to-doe ratios. Populations in central and southern Utah have also benefited from favorable survival and recruitment, with hunters expected to see many younger bucks alongside older-age-class bucks.
Utah's current elk management plan aims for a statewide total of 80,600 elk, with an estimated 83,020 elk currently in the state. Officials noted that unlimited over-the-counter late-season any legal weapon any-bull permits remain available. Additionally, general-season bull elk archery permits can be purchased online or at DWR offices.
Youth hunters have access to unlimited general-season youth bull elk permits, which allow for hunting during various general-season archery, any weapon, and muzzleloader dates. Mike Wardle, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Big Game Coordinator, stated that providing these opportunities is a high priority for the DWR, especially for younger hunters.
Hunters should be aware of several regulations and options for the 2026 season. Mandatory harvest reporting is required within 30 days of the end of a hunt season. Additionally, mandatory chronic wasting disease (CWD) testing is required for buck deer harvested in the limited-entry any legal weapon Castle Valley hunt, the Moab Valley hunt, and the general-season any legal weapon Ogden hunt.
Due to wildfires, relief options are being offered for some hunts and units; hunters will receive an email if they qualify. Hunters also have the option to use an electronic tag through the Utah Hunting and Fishing mobile app instead of a paper permit.
Wildlife officials recommend that hunters research their units using the Utah Hunt Planner and practice with their equipment before heading out. To increase success, officials suggest scouting areas, being adaptable to changing conditions, and hunting in rugged terrain away from roads to find mature animals.
