TAGZ Briefing: October 2025
At TAGZ we follow announcements from the key Western states and national sources, then gather the most relevant items for you. Below is our monthly sweep of the headlines, distilled and organized so you can stay informed without tracking every agency feed yourself.
Featured Story
Montana Opens Two Year Deer, Elk, and Black Bear Regulation Proposals for Comment
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, October 31, 2025
Read the official release
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has released its complete set of proposed regulations for the 2026 and 2027 deer, elk, and black bear seasons and is asking hunters to weigh in before the Fish and Wildlife Commission meets on December 4. The package covers season structures, license quotas, and changes driven by biological data and public input.
FWP is holding a final round of in person and virtual meetings across the state through mid November so hunters can hear details, ask questions, and offer feedback. This two year cycle determines the foundation for future elk and deer opportunities, including potential changes in several high demand hunting districts.
If you hunt Montana regularly, this is your window to influence the 2026 rulebook and prepare for next year's application strategy.
Quick Hits
Colorado – Weigh in on big game changes in the Northwest
CPW is gathering public feedback on twelve proposed big game changes in the Northwest Region, including late cow elk seasons, new either sex rifle opportunities, and pronghorn hunt expansions. Comments are open until November 1.
Read moreUtah – Mandatory harvest reporting applies to all general deer and elk
Utah DWR reminds hunters that mandatory reporting now covers every general season buck deer and bull elk hunt. Hunters have 30 days after their season closes to report.
Read noticeUtah – Mandatory CWD testing in the Ogden unit
Utah is implementing mandatory chronic wasting disease testing for deer harvested in the Ogden unit, with designated check stations and transport rules.
See updateArizona – Several bear units closed after reaching harvest thresholds
Bear hunters must verify real time unit status before hunting. Several units have reached their nonpermit hunt thresholds and are now closed.
Check unit statusMontana – General opener check stations show strong elk and deer harvest
Region 3 stations saw more than 2,400 hunters opening weekend, with elk and deer harvests near long term averages.
Read summaryTactics – Why late October is prime for mature bucks
Outdoor Life outlines why the last week of October often outperforms mid November for targeting a patterned mature whitetail.
Read article
Opportunity Alerts
Idaho – First ever nonresident general deer and elk tag drawing
Idaho will run its new nonresident general season deer and elk draw from December 5 to 15, with results in early January.
Learn moreUtah – Apply for 2026 sportsman permits starting October 28
These premium permits offer long seasons and flexible unit choice for many big game species. Applications close November 18.
Apply hereArizona – 2026 spring big game draw deadline
The deadline for spring turkey, javelina, bison, and bear is October 7.
Apply here
Sources Reviewed This Month
Colorado Parks and Wildlife, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Idaho Fish and Game, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Texas Parks and Wildlife, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Arizona Game and Fish Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Outdoor Life.