California
Non-resident hunting — draw tags, OTC options, fees & deadlines
Data last updated: April 2026
Application Deadlines
Species Details
Total NR cost when drawn: ~$1,535 (NR elk tag ~$1,487 + $48 NR hunting license). The $48 was the license/application fee only. Tule elk unique to CA. Roosevelt elk in northwest zones. Very few NR tags. Residents and NR compete equally in most zones.
State-wide quota applies — season closes when quota is reached, sometimes mid-season. Check current quota status at wildlife.ca.gov before purchasing. NR tag ~$282 + $16 NR license = ~$298 total. Sierra Nevada and Coast Ranges hold large populations.
Total NR cost when drawn: ~$348 (NR deer tag ~$300 + $48 NR hunting license). The $48 was the license/application fee only. Zone A and X zones are most coveted. NR must draw. Premium zones like A-zone require points.
Total NR cost when drawn: ~$1,548 (NR bighorn sheep tag ~$1,500 + $48 NR hunting license). The $48 was the license/application fee only. Desert bighorn in southern CA, Sierra Nevada bighorn extremely rare. Apply annually for points. 15-25 year commitment.
Total NR cost when drawn: ~$348 (NR pronghorn tag ~$300 + $48 NR hunting license). The $48 was the license/application fee only. Northeastern CA (Modoc/Lassen counties) pronghorn. Underrated opportunity. Residents have better odds. Scenic high desert hunt.
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