Podcast Summary: Live Wild with Remi Warren
Episode: Ep. 168 | Wyoming Arizona and New Mexico Application Season Breakdown
Release Date: January 30, 2025
Introduction to Application Season
In Episode 168 of "Live Wild with Remi Warren," Remi delves into the intricacies of the Western big game hunting application season. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the application processes across key states—Wyoming, Arizona, and New Mexico—to maximize hunting opportunities. Remi refers to this period as "application season," highlighting the competitive nature of obtaining hunting tags due to the increasing difficulty in securing them.
The Evolving Landscape of Hunting Tags
Remi acknowledges the growing challenges hunters face in obtaining tags, such as limited availability and increased competition from non-residents. However, he remains optimistic, asserting that "there are still great options" for those willing to navigate the complexities of the application process. He stresses the necessity of playing the application game well and employing strategic methods to enhance one's chances of success.
Utilizing Modern Tools and Resources
Highlighting the benefits of technology, Remi points out tools like OnX for scouting and accessing detailed maps on mobile devices. He also recommends educational resources such as podcasts and courses from Outdoor Class, which offer specialized knowledge on hunting tactics, survival skills, and species-specific strategies. "There's so much information out there now," Remi notes, underscoring the advantage hunters have in today's information-rich environment.
Remi's Extensive Experience and Strategies
With over two decades of experience as a professional guide and hunter, Remi shares his personal journey of accumulating points across various states. He discusses his approach to managing and cashing in points, especially after years of focusing on guiding rather than personal hunts. Remi advocates for a balanced strategy that includes applying for a mix of tag types and locations to maintain consistent hunting opportunities.
Detailed Breakdown by State
Wyoming
Remi begins by addressing Wyoming, one of the earliest states to open its application season. He explains the state's tagging system, which includes regular and special elk tags priced at $707 and $1,965 respectively. Remi describes his strategy of "buying down" points to secure tags in less competitive units, ensuring a higher probability of success. He also elaborates on Wyoming's tag types:
- Type 1 & Type 2 Tags: Primarily for rifle hunting but can be used for archery with an additional permit.
- Type 9 Tags: Exclusively for archery hunts.
Remi advises hunters to explore various tag types and unit specifics to find opportunities that align with their hunting preferences and point standings. He also suggests networking with Wyoming residents or hiring registered guides to access wilderness areas, which are typically easier to draw due to limited non-resident access.
Notable Quote:
"If you have a Wyoming friend or somebody, a resident friend... it increases your odds of being able to get a tag."
Arizona
Arizona's application process is characterized by a modified preference point system. Remi explains that the state allocates a portion of tags to those with the most points, while also reserving slots for random draws, including a specific quota for non-residents.
Key Points:
- Quota System: 20% of tags are allocated based on points, and an additional 10% for non-resident random draws.
- Season Dates: Arizona offers both early and late hunting seasons, catering to different hunting styles and preferences.
- Antlerless Hunts: These provide alternative opportunities for hunters to secure tags without relying solely on bull elk tags.
Remi shares a personal anecdote about a misapplication in Arizona, emphasizing the importance of double-checking application choices to avoid costly mistakes.
Notable Quote:
"Arizona is one of the biggest, best bull-producing states in the west. There's some phenomenal elk hunting there."
New Mexico
New Mexico operates a random draw system with specific quotas for non-residents, especially those applying through outfitters. Remi outlines the state's allocation method:
- Quota Allocations: 84% of special draw tags go to residents, with non-residents receiving around 6% independently and up to 10% when applying with an outfitter.
- Application Choices: Hunters can submit multiple choices, prioritizing harder-to-draw units first and easier ones subsequently to improve their chances of securing a tag.
Remi highlights New Mexico as a prime state for elk hunting, offering diverse units and favorable draw odds when applying strategically, particularly through outfitters.
Notable Quote:
"New Mexico is one of the great states for chasing elk. There's some incredible action, some awesome units."
General Strategies and Tips
Throughout the episode, Remi emphasizes the importance of having a structured plan when approaching the application season. He advises hunters to:
- Define Hunting Goals: Determine what species and tag types are most desired.
- Diversify Applications: Apply across different states and tag systems (random draw, preference points, bonus points) to spread risk and increase opportunities.
- Leverage Technology: Use mapping and scouting tools to identify promising units with favorable odds.
- Manage Points Effectively: Balance the accumulation and redemption of points to avoid "point creep," where the number of points required to draw a tag increases over time.
- Network and Collaborate: Building relationships with residents or hiring outfitters can open up additional hunting opportunities, especially in wilderness areas.
Remi also touches on the psychological aspect of hunting applications, encouraging patience and persistence despite the tedious and data-heavy nature of the process.
Notable Quote:
"Understanding the game is half the battle. When you have a plan, you come out with more opportunities and more options."
Conclusion
Remi concludes the episode by reiterating the significance of mastering the application process to ensure consistent hunting success. He reinforces the idea that while obtaining tags may be challenging, strategic planning and informed decision-making can lead to rewarding hunting experiences across Wyoming, Arizona, and New Mexico.
Notable Quote:
"You can't go hunting without that tag. It's very important for our western big game hunting lifestyle to understand what's out there and what might be potentially available."
This comprehensive breakdown offers hunters valuable insights into navigating the complex application seasons of three pivotal Western states. Remi Warren's expertise and strategic advice serve as a crucial guide for both novice and seasoned hunters aiming to maximize their hunting opportunities.