Elk · State-by-state

Elk hunting regulations.

American elk (also called wapiti) are the second-largest member of the deer family in North America. Mature bulls weigh 700-1,100 pounds and carry six-by-six racks that put them in the same trophy conversation as moose for many Western hunters. Their range covers the Rockies from Arizona through British Columbia, the Pacific Northwest coastal forests, and small reintroduced herds across the East — Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Michigan, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Wisconsin.

Huntable in 27 US states

Elk hunting splits into general-season Western units (Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Oregon) and limited-draw trophy hunts everywhere else. The rut peaks in mid-September into early October — the bugle window — driving most archery effort. The rifle season runs in October-November with cooler weather and bulls dispersed off the meadows. Elk migrate seasonally in many ranges, requiring hunters to either follow them down at season's end or hunt summer range early.

State-by-state legal status

50 states + DC

Tap a state to view elk regulations and other species huntable there. Bield Hunt does not yet publish specific season dates or bag limits — verify with your state F&W agency before hunting.

Status legend

  • YGeneral season
  • DDraw / limited entry
  • PPrivate land / specific zones
  • SSpecial permit / depredation
  • RRestricted (subspecies / units)
  • -Not huntable

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