As the new year approaches, non-resident hunters begin shifting focus from the previous season to application deadlines, unit research, and early e-scouting for the fall ahead. For elk, mule deer, and whitetail deer, many Western states open or close non-resident application windows between January and June, requiring early organization and clear planning.

Idaho is entering a significant new era for nonresident big-game hunting. Beginning with the 2026 season, the state is replacing its long-standing first-come, first-served nonresident deer and elk tag sale with a structured drawing system. The December queue-based scramble — known for website instability, random line assignments, and hidden in-person inventory reduction — is ending.