Here’s how to make sure you’re always on top of your game when it comes to buying preference points in Wyoming: You absolutely need to mark your calendar for the period between July 1st and October 31st each year. This is the golden window for securing those crucial points that can eventually get you into some of Wyoming’s most sought-after big game hunts. Whether you’re eyeing a trophy elk, a magnificent mule deer, or a swift antelope, understanding this timeline and the preference point system is your first big step toward making that dream hunt a reality. Forget to buy during this period, and you’ll miss out on building the points that significantly increase your drawing odds for future seasons. It’s like collecting rare currency for your hunting adventures – you gotta stay consistent!
Wyoming’s preference point system is a must for serious hunters, especially non-residents looking to experience the state’s incredible big game opportunities. Unlike some other states, Wyoming has a very specific window, and you can’t just pick up points any old time. This guide will walk you through exactly when to buy, who can buy, how the system works, and how to make sure you don’t lose the points you’ve worked hard to accumulate. Plus, we’ll even throw in some essential gear recommendations to get you ready for when that tag finally hits your inbox. Think of it as your personal roadmap to drawing a coveted Wyoming tag! Investing in the right gear can make all the difference when you finally draw that tag. Consider a reliable Hunting backpack, a pair of Quality binoculars, and durable Hunting boots to be fully prepared for your adventure.
Alright, let’s get real. If you’re hoping to hunt big game in Wyoming, especially for those highly desirable tags that everyone else is after, preference points aren’t just a good idea – they’re pretty much essential. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department WGFD uses this system to allocate a significant portion of its limited-quota licenses, making it fairer for those who consistently apply over time.
Think of it this way: 75% of the available licenses for each hunt area and license type are actually set aside for folks who have been diligently building up their preference points. That means if you’ve got more points, you stand a much better chance of drawing a tag compared to someone with fewer or no points. The remaining 25% of licenses go into a random drawing, which is cool because it gives everyone a shot, but let’s be honest, you don’t want to rely solely on luck for that dream hunt. Building points is your strategic advantage, allowing you to eventually target those units that are known for bigger animals and incredible experiences.
|
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one. |
Amazon.com:
Check Amazon for Why Preference Points Latest Discussions & Reviews: |
Key Dates: When to Buy Your Wyoming Preference Points July 1 – October 31
This is the most critical piece of information you need to remember! If you’re planning to hunt in Wyoming down the road, you absolutely have to pay attention to these dates.
The Annual Window
The application period for purchasing preference points in Wyoming runs from July 1st through October 31st every single year. It’s a pretty generous window, but it’s easy to forget if you don’t have it marked down. During this time, you can log into your Wyoming Game and Fish Department account and buy one point per eligible species. This applies whether you applied for a license earlier in the year and were unsuccessful, or if you simply want to start building points without applying for a hunt in the current year. I’ve heard too many stories of hunters missing this window, and believe me, you don’t want to be one of them. That missed year can set back your draw odds significantly.
Don’t Miss the Deadline!
Seriously, don’t procrastinate! The deadline is always October 31st, and the system typically cuts off applications at 5 p.m. Mountain Time. If you wait until after 5 p.m. on the deadline day, you’ll find the system won’t accept your application, and you’ll lose out on a point for that year. It’s a hard cutoff, no exceptions. I usually recommend setting a reminder on your phone for early October, maybe even a week before the deadline, just to be safe. It’s also a good idea to ensure you have a reliable internet connection and all your account details handy, to avoid any last-minute hiccups.
Who Can Buy Preference Points? Residents vs. Non-Residents
Wyoming’s preference point system has slightly different rules depending on whether you’re a resident or a non-resident. It’s important to understand these distinctions so you know exactly what you’re eligible for.
Non-Residents: All Big Game Species Elk, Deer, Antelope, Moose, Bighorn Sheep
If you’re a non-resident, Wyoming’s preference point system is a huge tool in your hunting arsenal. You can purchase preference points for a wide range of big game animals, including elk, deer, antelope, bighorn sheep, and moose. This is fantastic because it allows you to strategically build points for the specific species you dream of hunting. Many of the premium units for these animals are incredibly tough to draw without a solid bank of points. For a successful backcountry trip, a high-quality water filter is a must-have item.
What Exactly is a Lease Buyout?
A crucial change to remember, effective since the 2019 season, is that for nonresident elk, deer, and antelope, you won’t automatically receive a preference point if you’re unsuccessful in the main draw. You have to actively go back to the WGFD website between July 1st and October 31st and purchase that point. This is a change that many hunters have accidentally overlooked, leading to lost points, so make a note of it!
Residents: Moose and Bighorn Sheep Only
For Wyoming residents, the preference point system is a bit more limited. Residents can only purchase preference points for moose and bighorn sheep. Unlike non-residents, residents who are unsuccessful in the initial draw for moose or bighorn sheep licenses will automatically be awarded a preference point. However, if you didn’t apply in the main draw, or didn’t opt to receive a point if unsuccessful, you can still purchase a point during the July 1st – October 31st period. While residents have better odds overall for many species, these two premium tags still often require significant points.
How Wyoming’s Preference Point System Works
Understanding the mechanics of the preference point system is key to making it work for you. It’s not just about collecting points. it’s about how those points are actually used in the draw.
75% for Points, 25% for Random Draw
Here’s the breakdown: for many species, especially for non-residents, Wyoming essentially splits the tag allocation. A whopping 75% of the available licenses in each hunt area and license type are set aside for the preference point drawing. This means applicants with the highest number of points get priority. Then, the remaining 25% of licenses are allocated through a random drawing, where everyone who applied has an equal chance, regardless of their point total. When to Buy New Golf Clubs: The Ultimate Guide
What this tells you is that while the random drawing offers a glimmer of hope, consistently building points significantly boosts your chances of drawing a tag, especially for those highly coveted areas. It’s a clear signal: if you want to hunt quality areas, you need to play the long game with preference points.
The “Opt-In” Difference for Moose & Bighorn Sheep
For moose and bighorn sheep, the system works a little differently, primarily for non-residents. If you’re a non-resident applying for a moose or full-price bighorn sheep license in the initial draw and are unsuccessful, you can choose to be awarded a preference point. If you don’t participate in the limited quota drawing or don’t opt-in for a preference point, you can still purchase one during the July 1st – October 31st window. Residents, as mentioned, get a point automatically if unsuccessful in these draws. It’s a subtle but important distinction that ensures you’re still building points even if you strike out in the main draw.
What Happens When You Draw?
This is a big one: if you are successful in drawing your first choice license in the initial limited quota drawing for species like elk, deer, or antelope non-resident, or for moose and bighorn sheep resident or non-resident, all your accumulated preference points for that specific species will be reset to zero.
This means you essentially “cash in” your points for that coveted tag. It’s a good problem to have, right? But it’s something to consider in your long-term strategy. For example, if you have 10 points for elk and draw a super easy tag as your first choice, those 10 points are gone. Many seasoned hunters will strategically apply for a tough-to-draw unit as their first choice to continue accumulating points, and then list an easier-to-draw area as a second or third choice if they want to hunt sooner without burning their points. If you happen to draw your second or third choice for elk, deer, or antelope, you generally get to keep your points. This is a great way to still get out hunting while building points for that dream hunt.
How to Purchase Your Preference Points Step-by-Step
The process itself is quite straightforward, but it’s important to follow each step carefully to ensure you don’t miss anything. When to Buy Nvidia Stock: Your 2025-2030 Investor’s Playbook
Step 1: Head to the WGFD Website
Your first stop should always be the official Wyoming Game and Fish Department WGFD website at wgfd.wyo.gov. This is where all the magic happens – applications, point purchases, and checking your balances. Be wary of third-party sites claiming to handle this directly, always use the official source.
Step 2: Create or Log In to Your Account
If you’re a new user, you’ll need to create a sportsperson account. This usually involves providing some personal information like your name, address, and setting up a username and password. If you already have an account, simply log in using your credentials. Having a strong password is always a good idea.
Step 3: Find the “Apply or Buy” Section
Once logged in, look for the “Apply or Buy” section, typically found at the top of the page or in a prominent navigation menu. This is your gateway to licenses, applications, and preference point purchases.
Step 4: Select Your Species
Within the “Apply or Buy” section, you’ll usually see an option for “Preference Point Only Application Period” or similar wording. Click on that, and then you’ll be able to select the species for which you want to purchase a preference point. Remember, you can only buy one point per eligible species per year.
Step 5: Complete the Purchase
Follow the prompts, add the preference points to your shopping cart, and proceed to checkout. You’ll need a valid credit card Visa, MasterCard, or Discover to complete the transaction. Be aware that Wyoming charges a 2.5% credit card processing fee on all applications and licenses. This is standard for most states, so it’s good to factor that into your cost. Having a reliable GPS device is essential for navigation in unfamiliar terrain.
When to Buy a New Car: Your Ultimate Guide to Smart Car Shopping
Step 6: Verify Your Purchase
After payment, you should receive a confirmation email with a receipt. It’s a good idea to save this for your records. You can also log back into your WGFD account after a few days point totals are usually updated in late November to confirm that your preference point balance has been updated correctly. If anything looks off, contact the WGFD directly.
Costs of Wyoming Preference Points
Compared to the cost of a full license, preference points are a relatively inexpensive investment for the long-term potential of drawing a premium tag.
Non-Resident Fees
For non-residents, the fees for purchasing a single preference point as of current information are:
- Elk: $52
- Deer: $41
- Antelope: $31
- Moose: $150
- Bighorn Sheep: $150
These fees are per point, per species, per year, and are in addition to any actual license fees when you eventually draw a tag. When to Buy New Tires: Your Ultimate Guide to Staying Safe on the Road
Youth Preference Point Fees
Wyoming offers a great incentive for younger hunters. Non-resident youth applicants those who are at least 11 years old at the time of application and will be 12 by December 31st of that year, up to 17 years old can purchase preference points for elk, deer, and antelope for just $10 each. For moose and bighorn sheep, the youth preference point fees are the same as adult non-resident fees. This is an excellent way to get a head start on building points for a future dream hunt, setting them up for success when they’re older.
Maintaining Your Points: What You Need to Know
Earning preference points is one thing, but keeping them is just as important. There are a couple of critical rules you need to be aware of.
The Two-Year Rule
This is a rule you absolutely cannot afford to forget. If you fail to purchase a preference point or apply for a license using the preference point option for two consecutive years, you will lose all of your accumulated preference points for that specific species. That’s right, all that effort and investment gone. So, even if you’re not planning to hunt for a few years, make sure you log in and buy your points every single year to keep your streak alive. Set those annual reminders! For scouting purposes, a good trail camera can be invaluable for monitoring game movements.
Strategic Application for Hard-to-Draw Units
As we discussed earlier, if you draw your first-choice license, your points for that species typically reset to zero. This is fine if you’ve reached your target number of points and are ready to burn them for a high-quality tag. However, if you’re still building points for an even more elusive hunt, you need a strategy. When to buy maternity clothes
Many experienced hunters will recommend applying for their desired, hard-to-draw hunt area as their first choice. If they draw it, fantastic! But if they don’t, they will then buy another preference point during the July-October window, continuing to build their total. If you want to hunt more frequently without using your points, you can list an easier-to-draw unit as a second or third choice. If you draw a second or third choice tag for elk, deer, or antelope, you usually retain your preference points. This allows you to get out in the field and hunt while still stockpiling points for that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s all about balancing immediate gratification with long-term goals.
Group Applications and Preference Points
Hunting with friends or family is a fantastic experience, and Wyoming does allow for party applications for deer and antelope up to six people, and in some cases for other species. However, when applying as a group, your preference points don’t just add up. Instead, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department averages all the applicants’ preference point totals to determine the group’s ranking in the draw.
This is super important to consider. If you have, say, 10 preference points for elk, and your buddy has 2, applying together would give your group an average of 6 points. This could potentially lower your chances of drawing a tag in a unit that requires a high number of points. So, when forming a group, it’s wise to apply with others who have similar preference point totals if you’re aiming for a highly sought-after area. Otherwise, one person with fewer points could drag down the group’s overall odds.
Essential Gear for Your Wyoming Hunt
When you finally draw that coveted Wyoming tag, you’ll want to be well-prepared. The diverse s and often challenging conditions in Wyoming demand reliable gear. Here are a few categories to consider upgrading or acquiring:
- Optics: Good hunting binoculars are non-negotiable for spotting game in vast open spaces. A spotting scope can also be a must for long-range glassing, allowing you to evaluate animals without disturbing them.
- Backpacks: You’ll be covering a lot of ground, often carrying heavy loads. An ergonomic and durable hunting backpack designed for packing out game is crucial. Look for good suspension, plenty of storage, and comfortable shoulder straps.
- Layered Clothing: Wyoming weather can be unpredictable. Investing in a quality layering system – base layers, mid-layers, and a waterproof/windproof outer shell – will keep you comfortable in varying temperatures and conditions. Don’t forget a warm hunting hat and gloves.
- Footwear: Your feet are your most important tool. A pair of well-broken-in, waterproof, and supportive hunting boots is essential. Carry extra socks!
- Navigation: While you might rely on your phone, a dedicated handheld GPS device or a reliable hunting app on a robust device can be a lifesaver, especially in areas with no cell service. Always carry a physical map and compass as a backup.
- Game Processing: Once you get an animal down, you’ll need the right tools. A sharp game processing knife set and a game bag are vital for field dressing and packing out meat responsibly.
Being prepared with the right equipment not only makes your hunt more enjoyable but also increases your chances of success and ensures your safety in the field.
When to Buy Life Insurance: Your Ultimate Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the deadline to buy preference points in Wyoming?
The deadline to purchase preference points in Wyoming is October 31st each year. You can purchase them starting from July 1st. It’s crucial to complete your purchase by 5 p.m. Mountain Time on this date, as the system will not accept applications after the cutoff.
Can non-residents buy preference points for all species in Wyoming?
Non-residents can purchase preference points for elk, deer, antelope, moose, and bighorn sheep. Residents, however, are only eligible to purchase points for moose and bighorn sheep.
How old do you have to be to buy preference points in Wyoming?
Youth hunters can apply for preference points when they are 11 years old, provided they will turn 12 by December 31st of the current calendar year. This allows young hunters to start building points early for future hunts.
What happens to my preference points if I don’t apply or buy for a few years?
If you fail to either apply for a license using the preference point option or purchase a preference point for a specific species for two consecutive years, you will lose all of your accumulated points for that species. This “two-year rule” makes consistent annual participation essential for maintaining your point totals. When to Buy Kitchen Appliances: Your Ultimate Guide to Scoring the Best Deals
Do I automatically get a preference point if I’m unsuccessful in the draw?
No, not for all species. Since 2019, for non-resident elk, deer, and antelope, you will not automatically receive a preference point if you’re unsuccessful in the initial draw. You must log into your WGFD account between July 1st and October 31st and actively purchase the point. For moose and bighorn sheep, unsuccessful resident applicants automatically receive a point, while non-residents can choose to purchase one if unsuccessful.
How much do preference points cost for non-residents?
The current fees for non-resident preference points are $52 for elk, $41 for deer, $31 for antelope, and $150 for both moose and bighorn sheep. Youth non-resident, 11-17 years old can purchase points for elk, deer, and antelope for a reduced fee of $10.
What happens to my preference points if I draw my first-choice license?
If you are successful in drawing your first-choice license in the initial limited quota drawing for a given species, your preference points for that specific species will be reset to zero. This means you’ve used your points to obtain the tag. If you draw a second or third choice tag for certain species like elk, deer, or antelope, you typically get to keep your points.
When to Buy Your Kindle Paperwhite: The Ultimate Guide to Snagging a Deal
Leave a Reply