Big Game Tags
North Carolina Big Game Tags
2026
Elk, moose, and black bear tag requirements in North Carolina - resident and nonresident fees, species availability, draw versus over-the-counter access, and official purchase links. North Carolina offers black bear hunting in the coastal plains and mountain regions. Elk were reintroduced in the Great Smoky Mountains area and a limited hunt is now available by draw. Moose are not present.
Elk Available
Bear Available
Draw System
2026 Big Game Tag Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Elk Available?
Yes
Resident: $200
Bear Available?
Yes
See agency for fees
Moose Available?
No
No moose population
Draw Required?
Yes
Some/all tags via draw system
Species & Fees
North Carolina Big Game Species Overview
Elk
Resident Tag$200.00
Nonresident Tag$1,500.00
Draw RequiredYes (some units)
Black Bear
TypeDraw
Moose
Moose are not hunted in North Carolina. No established moose hunting season.
Elk by draw only; bear included with hunting license in designated zones
Step-by-Step
How to Get Your North Carolina Big Game Tag
Follow these steps to successfully obtain your North Carolina big game tag for the 2026 season.
1
Purchase Your Base Hunting License
A valid North Carolina hunting license is required before purchasing or applying for big game tags. Buy your license online at the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website, at a licensed sporting goods store, or from an authorized license agent.
2
Apply for Your Draw Tag
North Carolina uses a draw system for some or all big game tags. Apply during the application window (typically January–April) through North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission's online portal. Application fees are non-refundable if you don't draw. Check for preference/bonus point systems that may improve future odds.
Apply online →
3
Review Species-Specific Regulations
Study North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission's current big game regulations for your target species: legal shooting hours, legal weapons, unit boundaries, antler restrictions, and transport requirements. Regulations are available on the agency website and at license dealers. North Carolina hunting license required. Elk by draw; bear by permit in designated hunting areas.
4
Tag & Report Your Harvest
Upon harvesting your big game animal, immediately fill out and attach your tag before moving the animal. Many states require big game harvest to be reported within 24–48 hours through an online or phone reporting system. Keep your license and tag on your person at all times while hunting and during transport.
Requirements
North Carolina Big Game Tag Requirements
North Carolina hunting license required. Elk by draw; bear by permit in designated hunting areas.
Important Notes
North Carolina-Specific Big Game Information
Elk hunting is very new in NC; extremely limited tags. Bear hunting is well established.
Source: North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (www.ncwildlife.org).
Requirements verified 2026. Big game tag fees and draw deadlines change annually - always confirm directly with North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission before applying or purchasing.