Navigating the Western Application Season | Episode 161

Navigating the Western Application Season | Episode 161

From Elk Talk by Randy Newberg and Corey Jacobsen

March 23, 2026 · 1h 22m · Episode 161

About this episode

Randy and Corey discuss the complexities of western hunting applications and the impact of state legislation on hunting rules.

In this episode of the Elk Talk Podcast, Randy and Corey take a deep dive into the confusing, and often frustrating, world of western hunting applications. This podcast looks at why hunting systems have become so complex, specifically how state legislatures (rather than biologists) often create "harebrained" rules like Montana’s "one-point sandwich" and New Mexico’s 0.75 rounding rule. Other key highlights include: Why applying as a party in New Mexico can actually hurt your odds. Explaining how you can be "unsuccessful" and "successful" at the same time in the Montana draw cycle. A candid look at how Montanan legislative "handouts" and carve-outs have pushed nonresident numbers far beyond the original 17,000 non-resident tag caps. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People in this episode

Hosts: Randy Newberg, Corey Jacobsen

Topics covered

  • hunting applications
  • western hunting
  • state legislation
  • Montana draw cycle
  • New Mexico party applications

Keywords

  • hunting applications
  • Montana
  • New Mexico
  • legislation
  • non-resident tags
  • draw cycle
  • party applications

Mentioned in this episode

Places: Montana, New Mexico

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