Over-the-Counter Hunts

Colorado is widely regarded as the top state for over-the-counter (OTC) elk hunting, boasting the largest elk population in the country, an estimated 300,000 animals, nearly double that of the next closest state, Montana. Nearly half the state is open to OTC elk hunting during designated seasons, making it the most accessible and opportunity-rich destination for elk hunters. Colorado's turkey population sits around 35,000, with Merriam’s being the dominant subspecies, though Rio Grandes can also be found in certain areas. If you enjoy spot-and-stalk hunting, archery antelope offers an exciting challenge across the plains and open terrain. There’s no spring bear season in Colorado, meaning fall is the first opportunity hunters have to pursue them, often leading to increased sightings, especially for those already in the field chasing elk.

Montana offers a diverse landscape, from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Plains, and over 30 million acres of public land. The state provides solid OTC opportunities, particularly for antlerless deer and black bear, with strong harvest numbers across multiple species. Turkey hunting is excellent with a population around 120,000 offering Merriam’s, Easterns, and Hybrids.

While most of Utah’s hunting opportunities are draw based, any bull and spike-only elk tags provide OTC access for both archery and rifle/muzzleloader hunters. These opportunities allow you to start hunting in August, giving you a chance to check your gear and experience hunting in and around mature bulls. For those looking to fill the freezer, these tags offer solid chances to harvest either a spike, cow, or any bull in the designated units. Northern and central units offer good elk density with less hunting pressure compared to neighboring Colorado. Turkey hunting in Utah is underrated. There is a healthy population of wild turkeys found throughout the state, providing hunters with excellent opportunities to chase birds in some of the most scenic areas of the West.

Oregon provides unique opportunities to hunt both Roosevelt and Rocky Mountain elk on OTC tags. Though the hunting can be physically demanding, it’s incredibly rewarding, especially with over 34 million acres of public land available. Unlike other western states that limit OTC elk tags to spike-only or cow-only hunts, Oregon’s general tags in many units allow hunters to pursue any bull. With an estimated 59,000 Roosevelt elk and 74,000 Rocky Mountain elk, opportunities abound. You can hunt blacktail deer and mule deer. If you're out elk or deer hunting, it’s worth picking up a bear tag. Oregon has one of the best black bear populations in the country, estimated at 37,000. Oregon also offers phenomenal turkey hunting. With careful planning across spring and fall seasons, it’s possible to legally harvest up to 15 turkeys annually.

Washington is often overlooked in western big game discussions, but that’s starting to change. In fact, a record-breaking bull elk grossing 490 4/8" was harvested last season, bringing new attention to the state’s hidden potential. This state also offers the opportunity to hunt three different deer species. Several general elk units offer spike-only or antlerless tags, ideal if your priority is filling the freezer. Washington is also a sleeper state for turkey hunting, offering stunning scenery and generous bag limits. Hunters can legally harvest up to seven turkeys annually across spring and fall seasons and get to chase after Merriam’s, Rio’s, and Easterns. Bear hunting is also great, with 1,793 bears harvested last season with a 10% success rate.

Arizona is one of the top archery deer destinations in the country, thanks to its OTC (non-permit) deer tags and extended season structure that includes the January rut. Hunters can chase Coues deer in the southern half of the state and mule deer along the northern rim. Bear hunting is another overlooked gem. While not heavily targeted, bears are often spotted while glassing for deer. Arizona enforces a female bear harvest quota, capped at 249 statewide. Male harvests are unlimited, though hunters are limited to one bear per calendar year. The most productive bear hunting typically occurs in October, making it a smart add-on tag if you're already in the field for deer.

California is home to the second largest black bear population in the U.S., trailing only Alaska. From the low harvests, the population is thriving and producing some massive bears. For those willing to put in the work, the opportunity for a trophy-class bear is real. The state also has the fourth largest turkey population, with nearly 21,000 birds harvested last season. Spring hunts can be action-packed, especially in oak woodlands and rolling hills. Deer hunting in California often flies under the radar, but nice bucks are taken every year. OTC deer tags are more of an opportunity-based hunt, great for those happy to locate and harvest a legal buck rather than chase trophies.