The first big game hunts of the season begin Saturday, Aug. 16, with the general-season archery buck deer and the archery spike and any-bull elk hunts. Additional general-season dates include:

• Any legal weapon any-bull elk (early): Oct. 4-10
• Any legal weapon any-bull elk (late): Oct. 11-17
• Any legal weapon spike-bull elk: Oct. 4-16
• Any legal weapon buck deer: Oct. 18-26
• Muzzleloader elk: Oct. 29-Nov. 6

For a complete list of dates, hunters should refer to page 7 of the 2025 Utah Big Game Field Regulations Guidebook.

Deer hunting outlook

Deer populations vary greatly across the state. Northern Utah herds in Cache, Weber, Summit, and Morgan counties are still recovering from the harsh 2022-23 winter. Hunters in those areas should expect fewer deer overall, with mostly younger age-class bucks.

In contrast, southern Utah deer herds remain strong thanks to several mild winters. Hunters there may encounter larger numbers of deer, with good potential for both younger and older bucks.

“Adult deer across the state were in average to above-average nutritional condition this past winter,” said DWR Big Game Coordinator Dax Mangus. “While we’re encouraged by these numbers, dry conditions this spring and summer have meant less forage. We’re hoping for late-season monsoon rains to improve conditions before winter.”

Elk hunting outlook

Utah’s elk population remains robust, with an estimated 82,140 animals statewide–slightly above the management objective of 80,000.

There are still unlimited over-the-counter late-season any-weapon any-bull permits available, and youth hunters have additional opportunities. The general-season youth bull elk permit allows young hunters to participate in all general-season elk hunts, providing flexibility for families to plan outings around busy schedules.

“The ability for hunters to get into the field regularly is important, especially for youth,” Mangus said. “These hunts create lasting memories for families.”

General tips for a successful hunt

Hunters are encouraged to:

• Do research and scout early. The Utah Hunt Planner is an online tool offering maps, biologist notes, and information on public vs. private lands.
• Know new laws. Harvest reports are now due within 30 days of the hunt ending (or by Feb. 15). Youth hunters with restricted rifle permits may now hunt all applicable general-season hunts on their unit.
• Practice regularly. Whether with bows or firearms, hunters should be comfortable with their equipment before heading out.
• Use optics and scout terrain. Binoculars and spotting scopes help locate animals from a distance. Elk often avoid roads, while mature bucks prefer rugged mountain terrain away from does and fawns.
• Pay attention to wind. Wind direction can make or break an archery stalk. Hunters are advised to use a wind checker to stay undetected.
• Be prepared. Mountain weather changes quickly–bring proper clothing, a first-aid kit, and plenty of water. Always let someone know your hunting plans.
• Handle game meat carefully. Warm temperatures can spoil meat quickly. Cooling the animal immediately–removing the hide, deboning, and using game bags or dry ice–is critical.

A season to remember

“Hunting should be fun, and you should enjoy it,” Mangus said. “It’s a great time to see Utah’s amazing wildlife and make memories with family and friends. Get outdoors this fall and have an adventure or two in our beautiful state.”

For complete details on hunt dates, new laws, and regulations, hunters should review the 2025 Utah Big Game Field Regulations Guidebook, available online at wildlife.utah.gov.