With nearly 85% of the state held in public lands, Nevada is a premier destination for big game hunters, with a diverse range of huntable species and unique hunting opportunities throughout the state. The state offers hunting opportunities for mule deer, elk, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, black bear, and mountain lion.
Applications, Draw System, and Top Hunting Areas:
Learn More about Nevada’s Application Process
Learn More about Nevada’s Point System
Learn More about Nevada’s Top Hunting Areas
Big Game Species to Hunt in Nevada:
Nevada Mule Deer Hunting:
Nevada has a robust population of mule deer, with both resident and migratory herds throughout the state. The state offers both archery and rifle hunts for mule deer, with different regulations and seasons for each hunting unit. Archery season typically runs from late August to early September, while rifle season runs from late October to late November.
Elk Hunting in Nevada:
Nevada has exceptional trophy elk opportunities in its limited-entry elk hunting program, with hunters applying for permits through a lottery system. The state offers both archery and rifle hunts for elk, with different regulations and seasons for each hunting unit. Archery season typically runs from late August to early September, while rifle season runs from late October to late November.
Pronghorn Antelope Hunting:
Nevada has a large population of pronghorn antelope, with both resident and migratory herds throughout the state. The state offers both archery and rifle hunts for pronghorn antelope, with different regulations and seasons for each hunting unit. Archery season typically runs from late August to early September, while rifle season runs from late September to early November.
Bighorn Sheep and Mountain Goat Hunting:
Nevada has both desert and California bighorn sheep populations, as well as a mountain goat population. The state offers limited-entry hunts for both species, with permits allocated through a lottery system. The hunting season for bighorn sheep and mountain goat typically runs from early August to early December.
Black Bear and Mountain Lion Hunting:
Nevada has a moderate population of black bear and mountain lion, with both species offering limited-entry hunting opportunities. The state also offers general-season hunts for mountain lion in certain hunting units. The hunting season for black bear typically runs from early September to early November, while the hunting season for mountain lion runs from late September to late March.
One of the unique aspects of hunting in Nevada is the state’s large and expansive public lands, which offer hunters a wide range of hunting opportunities. Nevada has over 85% of its land designated as public lands, including national forests, wilderness areas, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands.
When planning a hunting trip to Nevada, it is important to research the regulations and seasons for the specific species and hunting unit you are interested in. Additionally, hunters should consider the terrain and elevation of the hunting unit, as some areas may be more challenging to hunt than others.
Overall, Nevada offers a unique and exciting hunting experience for big game hunters. With a diverse range of species, limited-entry hunting opportunities, and expansive public lands, Nevada should be a top destination for any serious big game hunter.