You didn't draw.
Here's every option.
It happens to the best hunters every year. There are more paths to the field than most people realize — some available right now.
2026 Draw Results Status
Your next moves, in order
Ranked by how fast you need to act.
Check for leftover and OTC tags
Right nowMany states release leftover tags after the main draw — available first-come, first-served. Colorado posts leftover tags online immediately after draw results. Wyoming has a leftover process as well. OTC archery elk tags are available right now in Colorado, Montana, and Idaho with no draw required.
Book a guided hunt — guaranteed tag, no draw
This seasonA licensed outfitter hunts on private land or OTC units — no draw required. You show up, they handle tags, logistics, and animal care. For the year you don't draw, a guided hunt guarantees your season. Most elk outfitters book out 6–12 months in advance, so the best availability is right now.
Use Scout AI to apply smarter next year
Next applicationMost hunters who don't draw applied for the wrong unit — either too competitive for their points or trending the wrong direction. Scout AI analyzes your specific point total, draw trends, and unit data to tell you exactly where to apply for the best odds next season. One conversation could change your next 5 years of applications.
Don't let it happen again
Most hunters who don't draw applied for the wrong unit.
Scout AI analyzes your exact point total against current draw trends and tells you which units you can realistically draw — and which ones you're years away from reaching.
Free for your first query. No credit card.
Takes 2 minutes
Common questions after draw results
I didn't draw Colorado elk — are there leftover tags available?
Yes. Colorado posts leftover tags on the CPW website immediately after main draw results are released (typically May 26–29). Leftover tags for popular species go quickly — check cpw.state.co.us within hours of results posting. Second-choice and leftover processes vary by unit and license type.
Can I still hunt elk in Colorado this year if I didn't draw?
Yes. Colorado offers over-the-counter (OTC) archery elk licenses for most of the state — no draw required. Rifle hunters without a limited-entry tag can purchase a second-season either-sex license in some units. Check CPW for current OTC availability by unit.
Wyoming elk results are out — I didn't draw. What are my options?
Wyoming offers a general elk license that covers multiple hunt areas and draws at 0 points in several units. If you applied for a limited-entry unit and didn't draw, check Wyoming Game & Fish for leftover limited quota tags. General archery and rifle seasons cover most of the state.
How do I make sure I draw next year?
The most common mistake is applying for units that are too competitive for your current point total. Scout AI analyzes your points against current draw trends and identifies which units you can realistically draw now vs. which require more years of accumulation. Enter your points and get a free recommendation.
Is a guided hunt worth it if I didn't draw?
For many hunters, yes. Guided elk hunts typically run $4,500–$12,000+ for a full hunt — comparable to what many hunters spend in application fees, travel, and gear over 5–10 years of unsuccessful draws. You hunt this season on a guaranteed tag, and you can keep banking points for a future self-guided hunt.
Either way, don't sit this season out.
OTC tags and guided hunts are available now. Scout AI is free to try.