Can Nonresidents Still Hunt the West?

The short answer — yes, but it’s getting harder

Nonresidents can still hunt the West, but it’s not as simple as it used to be. Tag caps, higher costs, and increased demand have made it more competitive. That doesn’t mean opportunity is gone—it just means you need a better plan than just applying and hoping.

What’s changed for nonresidents

Most western states limit how many tags go to nonresidents. That cap shrinks your odds right away compared to residents. On top of that, application fees, license costs, and pay-to-apply systems have gone up, which changes how many states people can realistically apply in each year.

Access has tightened too. States like Idaho moving nonresident tags into a draw and changes to OTC structures in places like Colorado show where things are heading—more control, less open access.

Where nonresidents still have real opportunity

There are still states where nonresidents can realistically hunt. Colorado remains one of the best, especially if you’re willing to target mid-tier units. Idaho and New Mexico are also strong options since they don’t rely on point systems, giving everyone a chance each year.

These states are where you build consistency.

The states that take time

States like Wyoming, Arizona, Utah, and Nevada are still good options, but they require a longer-term mindset. You’re building points and waiting for the right opportunity. These aren’t your “hunt every year” states unless you get lucky.

They should be part of your plan, just not the whole plan.

Private land and outfitter tags

This is where a lot of nonresidents stay in the game. Landowner tags and outfitter allocations can give you access even when you don’t draw. In some states, these tags are transferable or sold through landowners or outfitters.

It’s a different approach, and usually more expensive, but it keeps you hunting instead of waiting.

Why flexibility matters now more than ever

Nonresidents who stay flexible are the ones who keep hunting. That means being open to different units, different seasons, and even different species. If you’re locked into one specific hunt, your odds drop fast.

The more adaptable you are, the more opportunity you’ll find.

Building a system that works

The best approach is to spread your applications across multiple states. Hunt opportunity states now, build points in others, and look at backup options like leftover tags or private land opportunities.

That way, you’re not relying on one draw to decide your entire season.

Where people go wrong

A lot of nonresidents either give up too early or expect it to be easier than it is. Some only apply in point-heavy states and end up waiting years. Others chase top-tier units without understanding how limited the tags really are.

And a big one—people don’t adjust when systems change.

Final thought

Nonresidents can absolutely still hunt the West, but it takes a more intentional approach now. The opportunity is still there—you just have to work for it.