Big Game Tags
Ohio Big Game Tags
2026
Elk, moose, and black bear tag requirements in Ohio — resident and nonresident fees, species availability, draw versus over-the-counter access, and official purchase links. Ohio does not have huntable elk, black bear, or moose populations. Big game hunting in Ohio is focused exclusively on white-tailed deer.
2026 Big Game Tag Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Elk Available?
No
No elk population
Bear Available?
No
No bear hunting season
Moose Available?
No
No moose population
Draw Required?
No / OTC
Tags sold over-the-counter
Species & Fees
Ohio Big Game Species Overview
Elk
Elk are not present in Ohio or there is no elk hunting season.
Black Bear
Black bear hunting is not available in Ohio or there is no established season.
Moose
Moose are not hunted in Ohio. No established moose hunting season.
No elk, bear, or moose hunting in Ohio
Step-by-Step
How to Get Your Ohio Big Game Tag
Follow these steps to successfully obtain your Ohio big game tag for the 2026 season.
1
Purchase Your Base Hunting License
A valid Ohio hunting license is required before purchasing or applying for big game tags. Buy your license online at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife website, at a licensed sporting goods store, or from an authorized license agent.
2
Purchase Your Tag
Ohio big game tags are sold over-the-counter. Purchase online through Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife's license portal or at a licensed retailer.
Purchase online →
3
Review Species-Specific Regulations
Study Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife'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. N/A
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
Ohio Big Game Tag Requirements
N/A
Important Notes
Ohio-Specific Big Game Information
Ohio is primarily a whitetail deer state.
Source: Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife (ohiodnr.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Big game tag fees and draw deadlines change annually — always confirm directly with Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife before applying or purchasing.