<p>Apply, skip, or just buy a point — this is how to make the right Wyoming elk decision in 2026.</p><p><br></p><p>In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of the Drawn West Podcast, Brian breaks down everything non-resident hunters need to know before applying for a Wyoming elk tag in 2026 — including deadlines, costs, point strategy, and when it isn’t worth applying.</p><p>This episode covers how Wyoming’s elk system really works, from the confusing regular vs. special draw and preference vs. random pools, to tag types, regions, group applications, and realistic draw odds at every point level. Brian also explains why Wyoming’s early deadline and full upfront payment change the math for many hunters — especially those with low point totals — and offers honest guidance on when to apply, when to skip, and when to simply buy a point later in the year.</p><p>If you’re trying to decide whether Wyoming fits into your 2026 elk plan, this episode gives you the clarity to make a smart call instead of guessing.</p><p>Key Takeaways:</p><p>• Non-resident Wyoming elk deadline: February 2, 2026 at 11:59 PM MT</p><p>• Upfront cost required: Full tag + fees charged at application</p><p>• Draw results: Tentatively May 21, 2026</p><p>• Preference points: No longer automatic — must be purchased separately July 1–Nov 2</p><p>• Regular vs. Special draw: ~4-year point reduction for ~$1,250 more</p><p>• General tag reality: Now takes ~3–6 points depending on region</p><p>• When NOT to apply: Low-point hunters in South &amp; West regions</p><p>• When to apply: Borderline odds (30%+) or high-point limited entry plays</p><p>Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram.</p><p>If this helped, leave a 5-star rating and share it with a buddy stressing over applications.</p><p>GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code DRAWNWEST<a href="https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4">https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4</a></p><p><strong>FREE Gear Checklist:</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.getdrawnwest.com/gear">https://www.getdrawnwest.com/gear</a></p><p><br><strong>Connect with Brian Krebs</strong><br><a href="https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest">https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest</a> </p><p>Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to [email protected]!<br><strong>Sponsorsand Discounts:</strong><br><strong></strong>GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code DRAWNWEST <br><a href="https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4">https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4</a><br>GOHUNT GearShop – 10% off most items with code DRAWNWEST <a href="https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u">https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u</a><br>Save10% onMaverick Hunting Blinds &amp; Accessories with code DRAWNWEST <a href="https://maverickhunting.com/?ref=getdrawnwest">https://maverickhunting.com/?ref=getdrawnwest</a><br>RTIC Coolers– Keep Your Meat Cold!<br><a href="https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers">https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers</a><br>Okuma Fishing– Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!<br><a href="https://alnk.to/31sVDzF">https://alnk.to/31sVDzF</a><br>First MonthFREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE <a href="https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE">https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE</a><br>Save $150 onSteelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE <a href="https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q">https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q</a><br>Save 10% onOllin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS <br><u>https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb</u><br><u></u>00:00 – Wyoming Elk Deadline &amp; Fees<br>02:35 – Preference Points Are No Longer Automatic<br>03:48 – How the Wyoming Elk Draw Works<br>07:25 – Wyoming Elk Tag Types Explained<br>09:45 – General License &amp; Regions<br>12:15 – Group Applications &amp; Point Averaging<br>13:54 – General Tag Draw Odds by Region<br>16:18 – Regular vs Special: Is It Worth It?<br>18:40 – Limited Entry Options by Point Level<br>21:03 – When You Should Skip Applying<br>23:25 – Elk Herd Health &amp; 2026 Outlook<br>25:57 – Final Recommendation &amp; Wrap-Up<br><u></u></p><p></p>