Chad Ryker talks with Erin Butler (AZ Game & Fish Big Game Program Supervisor) about Arizona’s elk and pronghorn draw, how non-residents fit into tag allocation, and how to build a smart application strategy. They cover the 20% max-point pass / 80% random draw structure (meaning low-point hunters still have a real shot), highlight over-the-counter/non-permit elk options, and call out common application mistakes. They finish with deadlines, costs, bonus-point “boosters,” and Point Guard options.

Key takeaways

• AZ draw structure: 20% of tags go to max bonus point holders; 80% are in a random draw, so “everyone has a chance.”
• Non-resident cap: Typically 10% of tags per hunt can go to non-residents (with rules that keep some NR tags in the random portion).
• Low-point reality: Many non-residents who draw have low points; random pass can produce surprise “first-year” winners.
• OTC elk exists: Arizona has non-permit/over-the-counter elk opportunities (including HAM: handgun/archery/muzzleloader), but they’re often tough/low success and require research.
• Big mistakes to avoid: Applying for hunts you’re ineligible for (like single-tag hunts as a NR), picking the wrong weapon/season, and assuming longer seasons = better (sometimes longer = harder).
• Bonus point boosters: Hunter Ed point (permanent) + Loyalty point (apply 5 years straight; miss a year and it resets).
• Point Guard: Lets you turn back a tag and keep your points (not your money); Point Guard Plus can also put you on a list for turned-back tags.
• Costs & timing: Need the non-refundable license, then apply per species; elk/pronghorn apps run mid-January to early February (deadline around Feb 3, 11:59 PM).

ARIZONA GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT

Website - https://www.azgfd.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/azgfd/

Resources

Draw Video

https://www.azgfd.com/hunting/hunt-draw-and-licenses/big-game-draw/bonus-point-process/

Elk Handout (and we do javelina too)

https://www.azgfd.com/hunting/hunt-draw-and-licenses/tags/non-permit-tags/

OUT OF STATE HUNTER

@outofstatehunter

GOHUNT

Use the code OUTOFSTATE when you become an Insider and get $50 in GOHUNT Gear Shop Credit

https://www.gohunt.com

ARGALI

Website -https://argalioutdoors.com

Instagram - @argali_official - https://www.instagram.com/argali_official/

KAPTURE GEAR

Website –https://kapturegear.com

Instagram - @kapturegear - https://www.instagram.com/kapturegear/

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