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/

#outofstatehunter #westernhunting #huntplanning #biggamehunting #publiclandhunter #diyhunter #nonresidenthunting #huntstrategy #applicationseason #drawodds #elkseason #deerhunting #couesdeer #backcountryhunting #huntprep #huntersofinstagram #huntingpodcast #huntwest #findopportunity #huntarizona #huntaz

In this episode of the Out of State Hunter Podcast, Chad Ryker welcomes back Jaden Bales of Hunt West Planning for a deep dive into the Wyoming non-resident elk draw. Together, they break down everything hunters need to know—from application dates, special vs. regular draw options, and preference point strategies, to understanding tag types, season structures, wilderness rules, and common application mistakes.

Jaden explains how non-residents can maximize opportunity through general tags, random draw odds, and reduced-price cow elk hunts while still building points for future bull hunts. The conversation also covers financial planning for multi-state applications, how Wyoming’s system compares to other Western states, and why Wyoming remains one of the best “middle-ground” states for consistent elk hunting opportunities.

They wrap up by answering listener questions on wilderness restrictions, mule deer tag reductions, premium units, and how new hunters should get started in Wyoming. Whether you’re brand new to the draw game or sitting on years of points, this episode offers practical, honest insight to help you build a smarter Wyoming elk strategy.

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://arrowheadrifles.com

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

KAPTURE GEAR

Website –https://kapturegear.com

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

#outofstatehunter #westernhunting #huntplanning #biggamehunting #publiclandhunter #diyhunter #nonresidenthunting #huntstrategy #applicationseason #drawodds #elkseason #deerhunting #couesdeer #backcountryhunting #huntprep #huntersofinstagram #huntingpodcast #huntwest #findopportunity

In this episode of the Out of State Hunter Podcast, Chad Ryker kicks off 2026 by outlining what listeners can expect over the next few months and how to best prepare for the upcoming hunting year. Chad breaks down why now is the time to focus on application strategies, non-resident opportunities, and smart planning rather than getting ahead of yourself on fall hunts. The episode previews upcoming state-by-state application breakdowns, tool tutorials, real-world stories from winter hunts, and practical strategies for hunters with zero to mid-tier points. Chad also dives into upcoming rifle-building conversations, physical preparation, and skill development heading into spring. To wrap things up, he introduces new and returning sponsors for 2026 and explains why each one plays a role in helping hunters find opportunity in every state.

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://arrowheadrifles.com

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

KAPTURE GEAR

Website –https://kapturegear.com

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

#outofstatehunter #westernhunting #huntplanning #biggamehunting #publiclandhunter #diyhunter #nonresidenthunting #huntstrategy #applicationseason #drawodds #elkseason #deerhunting #couesdeer #backcountryhunting #huntprep #huntersofinstagram #huntingpodcast #huntwest #findopportunity

Jaryd Bernstein from RPM FLG joins the Out of State Hunter Podcast for a fast-paced “Stories From the Season” recap covering an Arizona archery elk and Kaibab mule deer hunt. After nearly a week of dead elk activity, things flipped fast, Jaryd blew a five-yard encounter when a crow spooked a bull, then regrouped and killed the same bull later that day with a 48 yard shot in the rain. The Kaibab deer hunt felt tougher than past years, likely impacted by fire and pressure, but he eventually killed a nice heavy buck that appeared with almost no warning. Jaryd also shares a frustrating late-rifle elk assist where off-road ATV pressure blew a great bull out of the area. The episode wraps with lessons on staying positive during slow hunts and updates on RPM’s growth and upcoming products.

JARYD BERNSTEIN

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/jaryd_burnstein/

Ruffs Precision Manufacturing

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

Website - https://www.rpmflg.com

Use the code OUTOFSTATE10 and save 10% off your order from RPM

OUT OF STATE HUNTER

@outofstatehunter - https://www.instagram.com/outofstatehunter/

DEFIANCE MACHINE

Save 10% off at Defiance Machine with the code OUTOFSTATE10

Website -https://defiancemachine.com

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

REVIC OPTICS

Website - https://www.revicoptics.com

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

ARROWHEAD RIFLES -

Website -https://arrowheadrifles.com

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

GOHUNT

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

https://www.gohunt.com

MCMILLAN STOCKS

Save 10% at McMillan Stock with the code OUTOFSTATE10

Website - https://mcmillanusa.com

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

#outofstatehunter #westernhunting #elkhunting #archeryelk #publiclandhunting #muledeerhunting #kaibab #azelk #azdeer #backcountryhunters #diyhunting #bowhunting #huntingstories #storiesfromtheseason #huntgrind #keepgrinding #huntingmindset #biggamehunting #westernhunters #huntinglife

In this episode, Chad sits down with Shane Weigand of New Mexico Pack Burrosto explain why pack burros may be the most underrated tool in the backcountry. From the unique world ofpack burro racingto real-world hunting applications, Shane breaks down how to acquire a burro(private sale, rescues, or the BLM program), what gear and home setup are required, and how much weight they can realistically carry. The conversation also tackles the “stubborn donkey” myth and highlights why burros are safe, intelligent, and beginner-friendly pack animals.

Shane also shares insights from his book,The Backcountry Burro, (linked below) a practical, no-nonsense guide built from real hunts and real miles, designed to help hunters confidently get started with packing donkeys in the backcountry.

SHANE WEIGAND

NEW MEXICO PACK BURROS

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nmpackburros/

Website - https://www.nmpackburros.com

BUY THE BOOK - https://www.amazon.com/Backcountry-Burro-Guide-Packing-Donkeys/dp/B0F7CB6JPW/ref=sr_1_1?crid=26SLV65RLVBRO&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CydRwdClr8HUrfqg8kRttA.SdFq-rbhr6lWG6aEPedX39emKSd76esnkC8OTtkgsnY&dib_tag=se&keywords=backcountry+burro&qid=1765742925&sprefix=backcountry+burro%2Caps%2C137&sr=8-1

OUT OF STATE HUNTER

@outofstatehunter - https://www.instagram.com/outofstatehunter/

DEFIANCE MACHINE

Save 10% off at Defiance Machine with the code OUTOFSTATE10

Website -https://defiancemachine.com

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

REVIC OPTICS

Website - https://www.revicoptics.com

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

ARROWHEAD RIFLES -

Website -https://arrowheadrifles.com

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

GOHUNT

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

https://www.gohunt.com

MCMILLAN STOCKS

Save 10% at McMillan Stock with the code OUTOFSTATE10

Website - https://mcmillanusa.com

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

#outofstatehunter #elk #elkhunting #arizonaelk #muzzleloaderhunting #westernhunting #publiclandhunting #huntingstories #storyfromtheseason #longrangehunting #glassing #backcountryhunting #huntingcommunity #fatherandsonhunt #neverquit#giveaway #outdoorsman #publiclands #conservation #huntingpodcast

Muzzleloader Mayhem In The Elk Woods - George Bermudez

In this episode of the Out of State Hunter Podcast, Chad sits down with his friend George Bermudez to break down an unforgettable Arizona muzzleloader elk hunt that almost fell apart—twice. George’s father drew a rare tag with minimal points, but the excitement quickly turned to frustration when a primer mix-up and a stuck bullet sidelined the muzzleloader early in the hunt. What followed was a whirlwind of problem-solving, a bent ramrod, multiple trips across the state, and an outpouring of support from the hunting community to get the rifle back in action.

Despite the setbacks, George and his dad stayed in the unit, kept grinding, and eventually relocated the bull they had glassed days earlier. After a fast-paced stalk and a perfect shot at under 300 yards, the bull went down—only to stand back up moments later, creating a tense, unforgettable sequence that capped off the rollercoaster week. The story has everything: gear mishaps, community generosity, long-range glassing, miles of hiking, emotional highs and lows, and the payoff that only comes when hunters refuse to quit.

If you love stories of perseverance, tough hunts, and family traditions in the elk woods, this episode delivers in a big way.

GEORGE BERMUDEZ

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/backcountry_g/

OUT OF STATE HUNTER

@outofstatehunter - https://www.instagram.com/outofstatehunter/

DEFIANCE MACHINE

Save 10% off at Defiance Machine with the code OUTOFSTATE10

Website -https://defiancemachine.com

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

REVIC OPTICS

Website - https://www.revicoptics.com

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

ARROWHEAD RIFLES -

Website -https://arrowheadrifles.com

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

GOHUNT

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

https://www.gohunt.com

MCMILLAN STOCKS

Save 10% at McMillan Stock with the code OUTOFSTATE10

Website - https://mcmillanusa.com

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

#outofstatehunter #elk #elkhunting #arizonaelk #muzzleloaderhunting #westernhunting #publiclandhunting #huntingstories #storyfromtheseason #longrangehunting #glassing #backcountryhunting #huntingcommunity #fatherandsonhunt #neverquit#giveaway #outdoorsman #publiclands #conservation #huntingpodcast

In this Out of State Hunter Podcast episode, Armando from The Bow Hitch joins the show to share his experiences as a hunting guide in New Mexico. Armando provides an inside look at the joys and challenges of guiding, from dealing with unprepared hunters to helping older hunters achieve their hunting dreams.

Armando also discusses The Bow Hitch's incredible "Random Acts of Kindness" initiative, where they provided hunting gear and equipment to those who lost everything in the Ruidoso, New Mexico wildfires. Armando highlights a special hunt giveaway The Bow Hitch did in 2025 and tells the story from his perspective. Additionally, Armando reveals that The Bow Hitch will be giving away another fully guided elk hunt next year, in 2026.

Throughout the conversation, Armando offers valuable advice for hunters working with guides, emphasizing the importance of trust, patience, and flexibility. This episode provides a unique perspective on the guide-hunter relationship and the power of generosity within the hunting community."

ARMANDO MARTINEZ – THE BOW HITCH

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thebowhitch/

Website - https://thebowhitch.com/

OUT OF STATE HUNTER

@outofstatehunter

DEFIANCE MACHINE

Save 10% off at Defiance Machine with the code OUTOFSTATE10

Website -https://defiancemachine.com

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

REVIC OPTICS

Website - https://www.revicoptics.com

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

ARROWHEAD RIFLES -

Website -https://arrowheadrifles.com

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

GOHUNT

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

https://www.gohunt.com

MCMILLAN STOCKS

Save 10% at McMillan Stock with the code OUTOFSTATE10

Website - https://mcmillanusa.com

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

#outofstatehunter #bowhitch #westernhunting #muledeerhunting #highcountrymuledeer #bowhunting #archeryhunting #publiclandhunting #diyhunter #backcountryhunting #newmexicohunting #elkhuning #huntingguide #huntingadventures #huntinglife #huntinggear #randomactsofkindness #giveaway #outdoorsman #publiclands #conservation #huntingcommunity #huntingpodcast

How to Find the Right Hunt for You – Jaden Bales

In this episode of the Out of State Hunter Podcast, Chad and Hunt West Planning Co. owner Jaden Bales break down how tointentionallychoose and plan Western hunts, using Idaho’s new draw system as a loose template. Jaden shares a simple framework: decide what you really want out of a hunt, match terrain and access to your physical ability, pick a primary hunting style (calling, glassing, tracking, or smart road hunting), and be honest about how much time you can scout and hunt. Through examples from Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, and Montana, they show how this approach works across the West. Whether you’re chasing bugling bulls, glassing high-country mule deer, or targeting underrated cow elk opportunities this system works

JADEN BALES – HUNT WEST PLANNING CO

Website - https://huntwestplanning.com

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

OUT OF STATE HUNTER

@outofstatehunter

DEFIANCE MACHINE

Save 10% off at Defiance Machine with the code OUTOFSTATE10

Website -https://defiancemachine.com

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

REVIC OPTICS

Website - https://www.revicoptics.com

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

ARROWHEAD RIFLES -

Website -https://arrowheadrifles.com

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

GOHUNT

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

https://www.gohunt.com

MCMILLAN STOCKS

Save 10% at McMillan Stock with the code OUTOFSTATE10

Website - https://mcmillanusa.com

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

#outofstatehunter #westernhunting #elkseason #deerseason #idahohunting #wyominghunting #coloradohunting #newmexicohunting #publiclandhunting #diyhunter #huntplanning #escouting #muledeerhunting #archeryelk #rifleelk #backcountryhunting #gohunt #huntsmart #huntwest#huntingpodcast #outdoorpodcast #gohunt