GoHunt Bonus Series 29: Montana Antelope Applications

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, 2025California All Species: June 3, 2025Arizona Deer, Bison, Sheep: June 3, 2025California Deer:No non-resident quota—same draw odds for residents and non-residentsMix of mule deer and blacktail, with 160–170" potential in select zonesMultiple OTC and archery-only tags available across the stateNot ideal for Midwest hunters, but a great option if you live in the WestArizona Mule Deer:Bonus point system with 20% tags to max point holders, 80% to weighted randomStrong trophy potential (180–190"+) with many rifle hunts drawn in 5–10 yearsTrail camera ban may improve DIY success on mature bucksGreat value if you’re already building elk points with the license hack strategyMontana Antelope:Still offers solid access and good odds for archery hunters with 0–2 pointsRifle tags in the 700 series (SE Montana) offer strong populations and solid accessTrophy quality is even across units—focus more on access and herd size than pointsAntelope points are rising fast—8+ points now puts you in elite draw statusConclusion: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 Krebshttps://linktr.ee/thewesternrookieHave Questions or Comments? Send an email to [email protected]! Sponsors and Discounts:GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4uRTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!https://bit.ly/RTICCoolersFirst Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE  https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIESave $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6QSave10% 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.