Wildlife officials discuss nonresident hunting regulations amid rising interest

During the recent DWR RAC Meeting for the Northeastern Region in Utah, a significant discussion emerged regarding hunting tag availability and the impact of nonresident hunters on local opportunities. The meeting highlighted that nearly 4,000 late tags were issued, with a success rate of 9.7% for late hunts and 12.1% for early hunts.

Officials noted that tags for the first season were more accessible than in previous years, with many remaining unsold. This raised questions about the management of hunting permits, particularly concerning nonresident hunters. Currently, there are no caps on general or nonresident tags, leading to a free-for-all situation. The discussion revealed that while the split for limited entry hunts is typically 90% for residents and 10% for nonresidents, the percentage of nonresident hunters has remained relatively low, hovering around 10-12%.

Concerns were voiced about the potential influx of hunters from states like Colorado, which recently limited their archery access. Officials acknowledged the need to monitor the situation closely, especially if Utah becomes a primary destination for nonresident hunters. They indicated that while the current numbers do not pose a significant burden on resident opportunities, adjustments may be necessary if trends shift.

As the meeting concluded, the importance of balancing resident and nonresident hunting opportunities was underscored, with officials committed to keeping a watchful eye on future developments.