The Government of Alberta has introduced several important changes to the 2026 hunting draw system. Whether you're applying for big game draws, hosting non-resident hunters, or planning elk and mule deer hunts, it's worth reviewing the updates before submitting your application.

Youth Hunters Can Now Apply at Age 10

One of the biggest changes for 2026 is the reduction of the minimum age for big game hunting. Resident youth who are 10 years old can now apply for big game draws and hold big game licences.

This opens new opportunities for young hunters and families looking to introduce youth to Alberta's hunting traditions earlier.

Changes to Non-Resident Draws

Several significant changes affect non-resident hunters:

• Non-resident bighorn sheep draws will now be conducted through a completely random draw system rather than using priority points.

• Group applications for non-resident bighorn sheep draws are no longer allowed.

• Hunters who are successful in the non-resident bighorn sheep draw will not be eligible to apply again in future years.

• Non-resident applications for antlered mule deer draws have been discontinued.

• Non-resident applications for antlered moose draws have also been discontinued.

New Rules for Hosting Non-Resident Hunters

Residents may continue to host up to two non-resident Canadian hunters annually. However, under the new rules, at least one of those two hosted hunters must be a family member.

Hunters who regularly host friends or acquaintances should review the updated requirements before planning hunts.

Major Elk Season Updates

Several elk hunting changes have been introduced for 2026:

New Late-Season Draw Options

Many Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) now have separate late-season elk draw options. Hunters should carefully review season dates before applying, as some WMUs have been split into multiple draw opportunities.

Changes to November Seasons

The former four November seasons in WMUs 116, 118, 119, and 624 have been reduced to three seasons with updated hunting-day restrictions.

Extended Archery Opportunities

The archery-only season for antlered and antlerless elk in WMUs 116, 118, and 119 has been extended through October 31.

WMU 212 Weapons Restrictions Relaxed

For the WMU 212 antlerless elk special licence:

• December through February seasons now allow legal centerfire rifles.

• November hunting remains restricted to archery equipment, shotguns, crossbows, or qualifying muzzleloaders.

WMU 338 Zone Restriction Removed

The special licence hunting zone within WMU 338 has been eliminated, allowing hunters to pursue elk throughout the entire WMU.

New Partner Licences

Partner licences for elk special licences have been introduced for the 2026 season, creating additional opportunities for hunters to participate together.

Important Retractions

The province has withdrawn two previously proposed changes that appeared in the 2026 Hunting Draws publication.

Mule Deer Archery Seasons

Seventeen WMUs that were expected to require special licences for antlered mule deer archery-only seasons will remain under the existing system for 2026. Hunters in these WMUs will not need a special licence for those archery-only seasons.

Antlered Elk Draws

Proposed 3-point antlered elk draws in WMUs 302, 303, 304, 305, 306, and 308 will not proceed. These units will continue to allow hunting without the proposed special licence requirements.

Common Licence Reminders

Alberta Fish and Wildlife officials also highlighted several recurring licensing mistakes:

• General mule deer licences are only valid in specific WMUs and cannot be used where a special licence is required.

• Youth mule deer and youth white-tailed deer licences have similar restrictions and should be reviewed carefully before hunting.

• Supplemental black bear licences remain limited to designated WMUs.

• Hunters drawn for a special licence will have their priority reset to zero.

• Special licence authorizations cannot be cancelled.

• Licences and applications are non-refundable and non-transferable.

• Undersubscribed licences cannot be cancelled once purchased.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 hunting season brings meaningful changes for Alberta hunters, particularly youth hunters, elk hunters, and non-residents. Before applying, carefully review the draw regulations, verify your WMU selections, and double-check season dates to ensure your application matches your hunting plans.

Applications can be updated until the application deadline, so hunters should review their submissions carefully before the draw period closes.

View the official source at Important-Changes.pdf

Application Period and Process

The 2026 Alberta hunting draw application period runs from June 2 to June 25, 2026. Applications can be submitted online at albertarelm.com or through a licensed issuer near you. Hunters must have an active Wildlife Identification Number (WiN) and a current Alberta Hunting Licence to apply. Changes to applications, including WMU or season adjustments, can be made until the end of the application period, with group changes managed by the group leader.

Species and Draws

The draws cover seven major big game species: moose, elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat, plus Merriam's turkey. Most draws use a priority point system, where unsuccessful applicants gain points to improve their chances in future draws. Non-resident Canadians must apply with at least one resident hunter, and non-resident aliens are not eligible for special licences.

Draw Results and Licence Purchase

Draw results for 2026 are expected to be released in early July, with successful applicants required to purchase their tags before the season opens. Licences are non-refundable and non-transferable, and undersubscribed licences are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Detailed information for drawn applicants, including maps and required briefings, is posted on mywildalberta.ca starting mid-July.

Special Notes and Updates

• Youth hunters aged 10 and older can now apply for big game draws.
• Non-resident bighorn sheep draws are now completely random, without priority points.
• Some elk seasons have been adjusted, including archery-only extensions and alignment of WMU seasons. Partner licences for elk special licences are introduced in 2026.
• Hunters should confirm WMU and season selections carefully to avoid errors in the draw.

Additional Resources

• Alberta Hunting Draws Booklet: Provides detailed rules, species-specific draw information, and WMU maps. Available online at albertaregulations.ca or mywildalberta.ca.
• AlbertaRELM Help Desk: Toll-free 1-888-944-5494 for application assistance.
• Draw Odds and Planning: Historical draw odds and WMU-specific success rates can be reviewed to plan applications effectively.
  By following these guidelines, hunters can ensure they meet eligibility requirements, submit accurate applications, and maximize their chances in the 2026 Alberta hunting draws.