Thoughts on Western Draw Systems | Episode 162

In this episode of Elk Talk, Randy Newberg and Corey Jacobson dive deep into the complexities of Western elk draw systems, focusing on Colorado and Montana while touching on broader trends across the West. They unpack the upcoming 2028 overhaul in Colorado’s preference point system, where half of the tags will shift to a random pool, drastically inflating the point requirements needed to draw a tag—potentially doubling or tripling current thresholds. The hosts warn that this change will disproportionately impact long-time non-resident hunters who’ve accumulated points over decades, now facing devaluation of their investment. They contrast this with Montana’s convoluted draw process, where applicants must first secure a general license before qualifying for limited entry, often leading to financial risk and frustration. The conversation shifts to access challenges, highlighting how private land ownership, population growth, and habitat fragmentation are concentrating elk and hunters on public land, creating overcrowding and diminishing hunting success. The hosts emphasize the critical role of organizations like the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation in funding habitat, research, and access projects, urging hunters to support them despite occasional disagreements. They also reflect on personal hunting philosophies, including burning points early to enjoy hunts sooner, and share anecdotes about unexpected tag draws in Idaho’s second and third draws due to unpurchased tags. The episode closes with a candid discussion about YouTube and Facebook algorithmic suppression of hunting content, particularly around rifles and game processing, raising concerns about the future of outdoor storytelling on social media platforms.