Big Game Draw opens May 1 in Saskatchewan

Hunters aiming to go after big game this year can start their applications in just a few days.

The Big Game Draw for elk, moose, pronghorn and mule deer opens across the province on May 1. Applications must be processed through the online Saskatchewan Hunting, Angling and Trapping Licence (HAL) system by 4 p.m. on May 25, and late applications won’t be accepted. Hunters were advised to access their accounts early and use the residency verification tool to avoid any delays during the process.

Dana Skoropad, Saskatchewan’s environment minister, said the province is home to world-class hunting experiences, and the draw is eagerly anticipated every year.

“The Big Game Draw is a useful tool the ministry uses to ensure all hunters across the province have a fair opportunity to access this limited resource,” Skoropad said in a statement.

“Good luck to all applicants.”

Draw results will be available in June with the exception of pronghorn draws, which will be announced in mid-July, the environment ministry said.

“Big game applicants will be notified by email about their draw results, but hunters are ultimately responsible for checking their results online,” the ministry noted.

“Successful applicants will be able to purchase licences through their HAL accounts beginning Aug. 1.”

More information on the Big Game Draw can be found on the provincial government’s website.