The Western Rookie - Hunting Podcast

Latest Episodes:

GoHunt Bonus Series #30: Corner Crossing Update Jun 10, 2025

Show notes

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian shares a jam-packed update covering point deadlines, land access battles, and the latest in public land politics. Brian dives into time-sensitive applications, the ongoing corner crossing legal saga, and a brewing storm over a federal land sale. If you're a public land hunter or building points across the West, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways:

Application & Point Deadlines:
- Nevada Points Deadline: Today – June 10
- Nebraska Points Deadline: Saturday, June 14
- Kansas Resident Deer Application: Saturday, June 14
- Utah Points + Antlerless Deadline: Friday, June 20
Corner Crossing Case Update:
- Federal civil case upheld in favor of hunters—no trespassing found
- Billionaire landowner is petitioning the Supreme Court to overturn the ruling
- If SCOTUS hears the case and rules in favor of hunters, corner crossing could become legal nationwide
- If SCOTUS rules for the landowner, access to millions of acres of land could be blocked
Federal Land Sale Update:
- The Utah–Nevada land sale proposal (originally 460K acres, actually 1.5M acres) was struck down
- Sen. Mike Lee (UT) is pushing to sneak the language back into a must-pass Senate bill
- Conservation groups, hunters, and public land advocates are staying vigilant

Conclusion:
Whether it’s building your point strategy or defending public land, now’s not the time to get complacent. Stay alert, make your voice heard, and don’t let billionaires rewrite our public land laws.

Stay ready. Stay involved.
Download the free Western Rookie Application Calendar at westernrookie.com, and use code WESTERN to join GOHUNT Insider and get $50 in Gear Shop credit.

Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@westernrookie.com!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE

https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u

Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS

https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb

Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS

https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Training for Ridgelines w/ Adrian Guyer Jun 03, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Western Rookie Podcast, Brian sits down with Adrian Guyer, owner of Ridgeline Athlete, to discuss getting physically prepared for western hunts. Adrian shares his extensive background as a strength and conditioning coach and explains why hunt-specific fitness training is crucial for success in the backcountry. From endurance and mobility to injury prevention, Adrian highlights the most important aspects hunters should focus on. He also provides practical advice for those just getting started, emphasizing realistic goals and effective training strategies to maximize your hunt and minimize injury risk.

Key takeaways from this episode:

🟢 Why cardiovascular endurance is the #1 priority for backcountry hunting
🟢 How mobility and joint health dramatically improve your hunting experience
🟢 Effective strategies to safely build strength and durability for heavy pack-outs
🟢 Common mistakes hunters make in their fitness routines—and how to fix them
🟢 Realistic fitness approaches for hunters who start training later in the season

👉 Check out Ridgeline Athlete at ridgelineathlete.com and use code TWOBUCKS50 for 50% OFF your first month or standalone program.

Subscribe to The Western Rookie Podcast and follow along for more great content designed to help you succeed on your next western hunt!

https://www.instagram.com/ridgeline_athlete/

FREE Western Rookie Application Calendar

www.westernrookie.com/freeproducts

Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@westernrookie.com!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers

Okuma Fishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK

MyMedic Kits

https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tool_type=cl&merchant_id=3b3250a4-1c69-4622-aba2-bfa731775635&website_id=7f6281aa-3b5b-4477-94d5-7d43b2199765&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmymedic.com%2F&ctc=Western

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

GoHunt Bonus Series 29: Montana Antelope Applications May 27, 2025

Show notes

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs covers a triple-header of upcoming big game application deadlines. From overlooked opportunities in California deer, to trophy mule deer in Arizona, and the rising popularity of Montana antelope, this episode breaks down what to know before the early June deadlines. Whether you're expanding your rotation or just starting, these three states offer a mix of realistic tags, point-building strategies, and long-shot trophy chances.

Key Takeaways:

Application Deadlines:
- Montana Antelope: June 1, 2025
- California All Species: June 3, 2025
- Arizona Deer, Bison, Sheep: June 3, 2025
California Deer:
- No non-resident quota—same draw odds for residents and non-residents
- Mix of mule deer and blacktail, with 160–170" potential in select zones
- Multiple OTC and archery-only tags available across the state
- Not ideal for Midwest hunters, but a great option if you live in the West
Arizona Mule Deer:
- Bonus point system with 20% tags to max point holders, 80% to weighted random
- Strong trophy potential (180–190"+) with many rifle hunts drawn in 5–10 years
- Trail camera ban may improve DIY success on mature bucks
- Great value if you’re already building elk points with the license hack strategy
Montana Antelope:
- Still offers solid access and good odds for archery hunters with 0–2 points
- Rifle tags in the 700 series (SE Montana) offer strong populations and solid access
- Trophy quality is even across units—focus more on access and herd size than points
- Antelope points are rising fast—8+ points now puts you in elite draw status

Conclusion:
With three unique states and three very different styles of hunting, now’s the time to lock in your long-term strategy. From California blacktails to Arizona giants to Montana pronghorn, there’s something here for every Western hunter.

Don’t miss a deadline!
Download the free Western Rookie Application Calendar at westernrookie.com, and use code WESTERN to join GOHUNT Insider and get $50 in Gear Shop credit—just in time for summer scouting season.

Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@westernrookie.com!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Public Lands Are Not For Sale w/ Sam Soholt May 20, 2025

Show notes

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie Podcast, Brian sits down with public lands advocate and conservationist Sam Soholt for a deep-dive conversation on the alarming federal legislation proposing the sale of nearly 500,000 acres of public land in Nevada and Utah. Sam shares the latest details on the bill’s progress, the potential impacts to access and conservation, and—most importantly—how every listener can help stop it. From duck stamps to congressional calls, this episode is a must-listen call to action for anyone who cares about America’s wild places.

Key takeaways from this episode:

The bill proposes selling 500,000 acres, including land near Zion National Park and Las Vegas
The vote in the U.S. House could happen as early as May 23, 2025
Funds from the sale would go to the general fund, not back into conservation
How to take action: call 202-224-3121 to reach your representative
Easy ways to get involved via TRCP, BHA, Howl.org, or social media

👉 Join the fight to protect public lands—every call, email, and share matters. Subscribe to The Western Rookie Podcast and follow @thewesternrookie for more updates and action steps.

https://publiclandtees.com/

https://www.instagram.com/samsoholt/

FREE Western Rookie Application Calendar

www.westernrookie.com/freeproducts

Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@westernrookie.com!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers

Okuma Fishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

MyMedic Kits

https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tool_type=cl&merchant_id=3b3250a4-1c69-4622-aba2-bfa731775635&website_id=7f6281aa-3b5b-4477-94d5-7d43b2199765&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmymedic.com%2F&ctc=Western

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Vantage Point w/ Alex Mader and Jeff Stringer May 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Western Rookie Podcast, Brian is joined once again by Jeff Stringer and Alex Mader from Vantage Point Archery for a deep dive into broadheads and bowhunting setups! The trio gets into the weeds on fixed vs. mechanical broadheads, selecting the right head for elk and whitetail, how to gain confidence in your equipment, and some exciting new VPA product launches. Whether you're gearing up for your first archery hunt or refining your setup for the upcoming season, this episode is packed with valuable insight, technical knowledge, and real-world hunting stories that will help you make better decisions in the field.

Key Topics Covered:

The thought process behind choosing a broadhead: 2-blade, 3-blade, single bevel, bleeders, and more
Real talk about shot placement, blood trails, and the ethical kill
VPA’s unique customer-first approach, including custom broadhead sample packs and lifetime warranties
The rise of U.S.-made archery products and VPA’s new “50 Forge” initiative
New product sneak peeks: Omega heads with bleeders and an all-in-one insert/outsert/collar system

If you’re serious about dialing in your archery setup this season, don’t miss this one! Make sure to subscribe to The Western Rookie and follow along on Instagram for more gear deep-dives and hunting strategy episodes.

https://www.instagram.com/vparchery/

https://vparchery.com/

FREE Western Rookie Application Calendar

www.westernrookie.com/freeproducts

Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@westernrookie.com!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers

Okuma Fishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

MyMedic Kits

https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tool_type=cl&merchant_id=3b3250a4-1c69-4622-aba2-bfa731775635&website_id=7f6281aa-3b5b-4477-94d5-7d43b2199765&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmymedic.com%2F&ctc=Western

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

GoHunt Bonus Series: Nevada Big Game Applications May 06, 2025

Show notes

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs dives deep into Nevada’s all-species applications ahead of the May 7th deadline. From record-book antelope to some of the toughest elk and sheep tags in the West, this breakdown covers the ins and outs of Nevada’s unique point system, trophy potential, and why this state is both a dream and a grind for Western hunters.

Key Takeaways:

Application Deadline: May 7, 2025 at 11:00 PM PT for all species

Draw System: Nevada uses a squared bonus point system with a true random draw, meaning you always have a chance

Mule Deer: Herds have declined from 240,000 in 1988 to ~68,000 today, but Nevada still boasts some of the highest antler quality in the West

Elk Tags: Trophy caliber bulls (350–380"+) exist, but non-resident draw odds remain below 1% even with max points

Antelope: Excellent trophy potential and high harvest success, especially for archery tags; good long-term state for pronghorn hunters

Sheep & Goat Tags: Nevada offers the most Desert Bighorn Sheep tags in the country, but draw odds are true lottery-ticket level—

Conclusion:Nevada remains one of the best trophy states in the West, but success demands a long-term mindset. While some tags may feel out of reach, the state’s fair and random draw system gives every applicant a shot—if you play the game wisely.

Want to boost your odds this season?Download the free Western Rookie Application Calendar at westernrookie.com, and use code WESTERN to join GOHUNT Insider for $50 in Gear Shop credit. It supports the podcast, and more importantly, helps you hunt smarter. Good luck in the draw!

Connect with Brian Krebs⁠https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie⁠

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@westernrookie.com!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN ⁠https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4⁠

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN ⁠https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u⁠

RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!⁠https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers⁠

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE ⁠https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE⁠

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE ⁠https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q⁠

Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE ⁠https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u⁠Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbbSave 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS ⁠https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK⁠

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shed Camp w/ Dan Mathews Apr 29, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Western Rookie Podcast, Brian chats with returning guest Dan Mathews about their recent western shed hunting adventures! Dan breaks down his annual elk shed hunt in New Mexico, the challenges they faced with heavy boot traffic, and how the trip wrapped up with a few big finds despite a slow start. Brian and Dan swap stories about shed hunting near home, coyote hunting, and Dan’s insane luck finding sheds at night in Missouri. They also dive into upcoming western hunts, Dan’s spring bear plans, and the dream of locking down some prime Midwest whitetail habitat!

Key Topics Discussed:

Recap of Dan’s New Mexico shed hunting trip
Tips for shed hunting near water sources and food plots
Crazy luck finding whitetail sheds during a nighttime coyote hunt
Upcoming western hunts, including spring bear in Hells Canyon
Shed hunting strategies in the Midwest vs. the West

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow along for more western hunting content! And don't forget to check out part two of this conversation over on Dan's podcast, The Nomadic Outdoorsman!

FREE Western Rookie Application Calendar

www.westernrookie.com/freeproducts

Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@westernrookie.com!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers

Okuma Fishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

MyMedic Kits

https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tool_type=cl&merchant_id=3b3250a4-1c69-4622-aba2-bfa731775635&website_id=7f6281aa-3b5b-4477-94d5-7d43b2199765&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmymedic.com%2F&ctc=Western

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

GoHunt Bonus Series: Utah Once In A Lifetime Applications Apr 23, 2025

Show notes

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs wraps up the Utah all-species mini-series with a breakdown of Utah’s antelope and once-in-a-lifetime species applications. From archery pronghorn tags to bison, bighorn, and mountain goats, this episode covers all the lesser-known—but high-reward—opportunities Utah has to offer. Whether you're deep into the point game or just building a strategy, this is your final reminder before the April 24th deadline.

Key Takeaways:

Application Deadline: April 24, 2025 at 11:00 PM MT
Antelope Tags: Archery, muzzleloader, and rifle tags available with success rates up to 96% for rifle hunts
Trophy Potential: Slightly declining but 80" bucks still possible in several units
Moose, Goat & Bison: Most hunts have 80–100% success rates for permit holders; DIY options exist but access can be challenging
Non-Resident Advantage: Can apply for all once-in-a-lifetime species (residents must choose one)
Point Strategy Tip: Utah’s 365-day hunting license lets you apply across two years if timed right
Bonus Point Draw: 50% of tags to highest point holders, 50% in a weighted random—you always have a shot

Conclusion:

Utah isn’t just about deer and elk—antelope, sheep, goats, and bison offer rare and exciting hunts you won’t find many other places. The low cost to add these species to your application makes it a no-brainer, especially if you’re already applying for big game.

Want better odds in the West?

Subscribe to the podcast, grab the free Western Rookie application calendar, and follow @brian_twobuckspodcast for more tips, strategy breakdowns, and insider updates.

Connect with Brian Krebs

https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@westernrookie.com!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN

https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!

https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u

Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS

https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb

Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

GoHunt Bonus Series: Utah Elk Applications Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs breaks down the 2025 Utah Elk Application, highlighting everything from over-the-counter opportunities to world-class limited entry tags. Utah remains one of the top states in the country for elk hunting, and this episode covers what makes it unique—including tag types, draw odds, unit quality, and current antler growth conditions. If elk is on your list this year, Utah should be too.

Key Takeaways:

Application Deadline: April 24, 2025 at 11:00 PM MT
Draw System: 50% of limited entry tags go to highest point holders, 50% via weighted lottery
OTC Rifle Tags: One of the last true over-the-counter rifle elk hunts in the West (July on-sale dates vary by hunt)
OTC Archery Tags: Unlimited general season permits still available in Utah—one of the last of its kind
Top Limited Entry Units: Offer 380" bull potential, 70–100% success rates, and 75–97% public land access
Current Conditions: Southern Utah snowpack is below average (55–75%), but antler growth still promising due to strong 2016–2018 birth years
Tag Cost: ~$613 for non-resident general season elk permits
Tip: Use GOHUNT Insider to research trophy potential and access (Code: Western for $50 gear credit)

Conclusion:

Utah continues to stand out as a premier elk hunting destination, offering everything from once-in-a-lifetime trophy tags to accessible over-the-counter hunts. Whether you're building experience or holding max points, there's an option for you.

Ready to hunt elk in Utah?

Download the Western Rookie application calendar, subscribe to the podcast, and follow @brian_twobuckspodcast for more expert tips and updates before the deadline hits.

Connect with Brian Krebs

https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@westernrookie.com!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN

https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!

https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u

Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS

https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb

Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

GoHunt Bonus Series: Utah Mule Deer Apr 18, 2025

Show notes

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs breaks down everything you need to know about the 2025 Utah Mule Deer Application. From new rule changes to draw strategies and trophy unit potential, this episode is packed with insights for both seasoned hunters and first-time applicants. Utah continues to offer solid options for mule deer hunters—especially those looking for opportunity hunts in the West.

Key Takeaways:

Application Deadline: April 24, 2025 at 11:00 PM MT
Utah hunting license tip: Buy near the deadline to use it for two application cycles
New in 2025: You can no longer apply for both general season and dedicated hunter deer hunts
Trail cameras banned on public land from July 31 through year-end
Multiple general season units have 100% draw odds for non-residents with 0–3 points and solid trophy potential

Bonus Tips:

Use GOHUNT Insider to research unit changes and draw odds (Code: Western for $50 gear credit)
Dedicated Hunter Program allows hunting all 3 seasons with 2 bucks in 3 years—but requires volunteer hours or a buyout
Utah’s deer herds are still recovering from the 2023 winter, but opportunity remains strong in many units

Conclusion: Whether you're holding max points or just starting out, Utah should be on your radar in 2025. It’s one of the best-value states for quality and opportunity mule deer hunts, especially for non-residents in the Midwest and East.

Want to stay ahead of the draw?
Subscribe to the podcast, download the free Western Rookie application calendar, and follow @westernrookie for updates and strategy tips all season long!

Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@westernrookie.com!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.