Over the last six years, I've been diligent in my attempts to draw one of Utah's "limited entry" elk tags. Despite my persistence and optimism, I have yet to see the word "SUCCESSFUL" on any of my applications. While I've yet to receive an invitation to the big party, my wife and I are looking forward to this year's results. Those who participated in Utah's 2008 "limited entry" draw should know whether or not they were successful later next month.

Although I did pick up an archery tag for both deer and elk this past season, for the first time in more than 30 years, I was not successful in my attempt to grab a general season deer tag. Last year's results has been cause for concern and has since motivated me to seek other options.

No, this does not mean I'm planning my own "late season" hunt (poaching). Instead, as mentioned to my wife, I hope to increase my chances of hunting big game by applying outside of Utah. Although many neighboring states have much the same "preference/point" system, the way I see it ... you can't win, if you're not a player. Hearing of my latest plans, my wife responded with her own plan.

"If you plan to apply outside of Utah, you'll not want to pay their non-resident fees. I've took the liberty of packing your stuff!"

Despite my wife's financial concerns -- and, the fact that I will not be a player this year -- the avid big-game hunter can increase his or her chance to hunt by simply applying in additional states. Again, if the state for which you are applying does not allow for an over-the-counter tag, you are still faced with playing the odds.

Wyoming, Idaho, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona all offer a non-resident the opportunity to hunt big game. Unfortunately, with few exceptions, a non-resident can expect to see "draw" results based on "points and/or preference" systems.

As my wife has already mentioned, all out-of-state tags -- if successful -- can be a bit on the expensive side. Despite this concern, it would be very rare for an individual to "draw" on all of his or her applications. The fact of the matter is that a hunter can consider himself very lucky if "SUCCESSFUL" on only one of many applications.

Again, if you're an avid hunter looking to hunt, and are willing to sacrifice a few bucks for processing fees, this is a good way to improve your big-game hunting opportunities for 2008.