Kentucky has the largest herd of elk east of the Mississippi River and because of this, Kentucky elk tags are a prized possession among hunters.
The Kentucky elk herd continues to flourish, thanks to a robust restoration effort by the State. Kentucky brought a few elk in to repopulate 20 years ago, and as a result there are now more than 10,000 on the hoof. The population growth is well ahead of schedule and expected to steadily increase.
Challenging terrain
The steep, rough, and heavily vegetated terrain of Eastern Kentucky offers excellent cover for elk. Eastern Kentucky Elk are a real challenge to harvest by any measure, but an exciting quest to be sure! The terrain varies greatly, from flat fields to high hills and from open farm fields to thick timber and swamps. Walking up or down large and sometimes steep hills might be required.
Permit issued
For the 2016-2017 season, the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Commission issued 900 permits, in addition to 10 youth-only permits. Bull: 150 firearms and 100 archery-crossbow permits. Cow: 400 firearms permits and 250 archery-crossbow permits. Hunters had a choice of 5 areas to hunt in a 16 county region.
If you are lucky enough to draw a Kentucky elk tag, then treat it as the special opportunity that it truly is – especially if you draw a bull tag.
Start planning now for 2017
Start planning now for 2017, the lottery application period runs from January 1 to April 30, 2017
Choose a guide
If you're lucky enough to draw a tag, you'll want to make the opportunity count. There's no better way to maximize your chances of bagging a bull elk than to hire an expert to help you--particularly if you're not familiar with the hunting areas.
Our guides put in countless hours preparing for their hunts. Preparation begins from the time season goes out until the next one opens. These guys know where the elk are and can put you in the right place at the right time.
It's up to you to make the perfect shot!
Related:
Deer Telecheck Results - Kentucky
Elk Telecheck Results - Kentucky
Hunting Game in the Land of 10,000 Elk - Kentucky
The Good Ole' Days of Deer Hunting are Happening Right Now in Kentucky
Living Up to Their Name - Meet Travis South of Integrity Outfitters, Kentucky
