Big Game Tags
North Dakota Big Game Tags
2026
Elk, moose, and black bear tag requirements in North Dakota — resident and nonresident fees, species availability, draw versus over-the-counter access, and official purchase links. North Dakota has a small elk herd in the badlands of the western part of the state. Elk hunting is by draw lottery with very limited permits. Black bear and moose are not present.
Elk Available
Draw System
2026 Big Game Tag Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Elk Available?
Yes
Resident: $30
Bear Available?
No
No bear hunting season
Moose Available?
No
No moose population
Draw Required?
Yes
Some/all tags via draw system
Species & Fees
North Dakota Big Game Species Overview
Elk
Resident Tag$30.00
Nonresident Tag$600.00
Draw RequiredYes (some units)
Black Bear
Black bear hunting is not available in North Dakota or there is no established season.
Moose
Moose are not hunted in North Dakota. No established moose hunting season.
Elk by draw; very limited permits issued annually
Step-by-Step
How to Get Your North Dakota Big Game Tag
Follow these steps to successfully obtain your North Dakota big game tag for the 2026 season.
1
Purchase Your Base Hunting License
A valid North Dakota hunting license is required before purchasing or applying for big game tags. Buy your license online at the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website, at a licensed sporting goods store, or from an authorized license agent.
2
Apply for Your Draw Tag
North Dakota uses a draw system for some or all big game tags. Apply during the application window (typically January–April) through North Dakota Game and Fish Department'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 Dakota Game and Fish Department'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 Dakota hunting license required. Elk by draw only.
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 Dakota Big Game Tag Requirements
North Dakota hunting license required. Elk by draw only.
Important Notes
North Dakota-Specific Big Game Information
ND elk permits are limited; the Badlands unit produces quality bulls.
Source: North Dakota Game and Fish Department (gf.nd.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Big game tag fees and draw deadlines change annually — always confirm directly with North Dakota Game and Fish Department before applying or purchasing.