Utah Hunting Seasons Information and Regulations
*All information listed below is disclosed based on research we have conducted. We do our best to ensure that all information is up to date and accurate. However, rules and regulations are changing every day. Please make sure to verify your state-specific regulations prior to your hunt.
Utah has a long hunting season that can last for up to six months. There are many different wildlife species available for hunting, such as deer, elk, antelope, moose, bison, bear and turkey. Utah also has an extensive system of game reserves where hunters may hunt in areas set aside specifically for this purpose. Hunting regulations vary by species and region, so it is important to research the rules before heading out. Utah also offers a variety of hunting opportunities for youth hunters as well, with special programs tailored to their needs and experience levels. Utah’s diverse landscape provides plenty of chances for exciting hunts in any season.
Whether you are looking for big game species or upland birds, Utah has something to offer nearly any hunter. Utah is a great place to hunt and offers some of the most beautiful scenery in America. With the right preparation and knowledge, Utah can be a great hunting experience for both experienced hunters and novice alike.
Utah Deer Seasons
| Archery | Aug. 20 – Aug. 16 |
| Muzzleloader | Sept. 28 – Oct. 6 |
| Early Season | Oct. 12 – Oct. 16 |
| General Season | Oct. 22 – Oct. 30 |
*If you’re looking for an easy way to get deer hunting permits in Utah, look no further than the Utah Hunting and Fishing app. With this app, you can purchase permits on the go before heading out to hunt. First-time hunters in the state can participate in the trial hunting program, which gives new big-game hunters the opportunity to try out the sport without taking the required Hunter Education course. For more information, visit the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website today.
Utah Elk Seasons
| Archery, Any Bull | Aug. 21 – Sept. 22 |
| Archery, Spike Elk | Aug. 21 – Sept. 10 |
| General Spike/Bull Elk | Oct. 9 – Oct. 21 |
| Muzzleloader | Nov. 3 – Nov. 11 |
| Youth Firearms, Bull Elk | Nov. 3 – Nov. 11 |
*Utah may limit hunting dates in specific units/areas of the state. Utah hunters are required to report any hunt and harvest information within 30 days of the season end dates, even if your hunt was unsuccessful. For more information, visit the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website today.
Utah Turkey Seasons
| Fall General Season | Oct. 1 – Feb. 28 |
| Spring 2023 Limited Entry | Apr. 8 – Apr. 27 |
| Spring 2023 Youth Hunt | Apr. 28 – 30 |
| Spring 2023 General Season | May 1 – May 31 |
*The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources offers an Upland Game Slam program for fall turkey hunts in the state’s central, northern, southeastern, and southern regions. Through this program, hunters can help fund upland game projects while being eligible to earn prizes for successfully harvesting turkey and other game. For more information, visit the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website today.
Utah Small Game Seasons
| Grouse | Dusky/ruffed: Sept. 24 – Oct. 16 Greater sage and sharp-tailed: Sept. 24 – Oct. 16 |
| Partridge and Pheasant | Sept. 24 – Feb. 15 |
| Sandhill Crane | Sept. 3 – Nov. 1 |
| Quail | Nov. 5 – Dec. 31 |
| Rabbit | Sept. 1 – Feb. 28 |
| Pigeon | Sept. 1 – Sept. 14 |
| Crow | Sept. 1 – Sept. 30 and Dec. 1 – Feb. 28 |
*The dates for hunting seasons vary depending on the specific zone. For more information, it is recommended to visit the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website.
Utah Crossbow Regulations
Crossbow Specific Regulations: All crossbows used to harvest big game, bear, cougar, waterfowl, turkey, or small game needs to comply with the requirements of R657-5-11(6). Crossbows used to harvest waterfowl, turkey, or small game are an exception and these must have a draw weight of no less than 60 pounds. The minimum draw weight for big game, bear, and cougar is 125 pounds.
Hunters who have a permanent physical disability due to disease, injury, or birth defect may legally obtain a crossbow permit for hunting big game. Game which may be harvested by them includes big game; turkey; bear; cougar, waterfowl; and small game during the any weapons or respective archery season. Know more by visiting the official website of the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
Utah Hunting License
In Utah, it is required to have a valid Utah Hunting License in order to hunt any wildlife. Utah residents and non-residents may purchase an annual license or short term licenses from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR). Licenses are available for purchase at local DWR offices, sporting goods stores, and other retail outlets across Utah. Utah also offers special licenses for those who are 65 years of age or older, active military personnel, and members of the Utah National Guard.
Licenses come in different varieties depending on the type of animal you will be hunting, whether it is big game (elk, deer), small game (pheasant, rabbit), waterfowl (duck, goose), or turkey. Utah also offers a free Access Utah Hunting Permit for those who are physically limited and cannot access private lands in Utah. All licenses can be easily purchased online at the Utah DWR website.
If you want to check out the next state on our list, click here to see Vermont.
Or, you can check out the last state on our list, Texas.
