This past January, the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) shared details about possible adjustments to the state’s elk hunting regulations, aiming to refine the application and tag distribution process.
For those with their sights set on a Pennsylvania bull elk, whether it’s your first time applying or you’ve already drawn a tag, some notable tweaks to the system could be on the horizon. The Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) is considering refinements to the elk license application process, and if these proposals clear the final hurdle in April, they could reshape the way hunters pursue elk in the Keystone State.
Buy Before You Apply
One proposed change, as noted by the PGC, is requiring hunters to purchase a general hunting license before they can throw their hat in the ring for an elk tag. Right now, anyone can apply for an elk tag, and only those who get drawn need to buy a license. If the new rule is approved, every applicant will have to commit financially before even having a chance at drawing a tag. This might cut down on casual applications from non-hunters or those who aren’t serious about putting in the effort if drawn.
Streamlining the Process
The PGC is also aiming to make the application process smoother by removing the need for applicants to enter their Social Security number or hunter ID. If the hunting license requirement goes into effect, the system will already have that info on file, making the extra step unnecessary.
Another change would update the official language describing the elk tag drawing process. When the lottery system was first implemented, applications were literally pulled by hand from a rotating barrel. These days, the drawing is fully electronic, so the updated language will better reflect the current system.
More Opportunities for Resident Hunters
Nonresident hunters may also see a cap on the number of tags they can draw. Right now, there’s no official limit on how many elk licenses can go to nonresidents, and while it has hovered around 10% in the past, that number has crept up to 13% in recent years. PGC officials have indicated they want to cap nonresident elk licenses at 10% to preserve more opportunities for Pennsylvania hunters.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Bull Tag
Hunters looking to score a second bull tag may soon find that opportunity closing. A new rule proposed by the PGC would restrict hunters to drawing just one bull tag in their lifetime. Under current regulations, hunters who draw a bull tag can re-enter the drawing after a five-year wait. If this new rule is approved, anyone who draws a bull tag starting Jan. 1, 2026, will never be able to apply for another one.
However, there’s a bit of a grace period. If you’ve already drawn a bull tag before that date, you’ll still have one more chance to enter the draw for a second. But once that window closes, the only way you’ll be chasing elk again in PA will be with a cow tag.
No More Mandatory Orientation
Lastly, the PGC is looking to drop the requirement for successful applicants to attend an orientation program, as it is no longer being conducted. The orientation is no longer conducted, so this is more of a housekeeping change.
What Does This Mean for You?
For Pennsylvania hunters eager to land an elk tag, these updates might tilt the odds in your favor by limiting nonresident competition and keeping more opportunities local. However, for those dreaming of a second bull, time is running out. And for nonresidents, drawing a tag could get a little tougher.
The final decision will be made in April, so if you have thoughts on these changes, now is the time to let the PGC know where you stand. Until then, it’s worth considering how these updates might impact your long-term hunting plans in Pennsylvania’s elk country.
