Moose Hunting License Guide
The most coveted hunting tag in America — moose license costs, lottery draw systems, and application tips.
About Moose Hunting in the United States
Moose hunting represents the pinnacle of North American big game hunting, with tags allocated almost exclusively through competitive lottery draw systems. Only a handful of states offer moose hunting opportunities, including Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Montana, New Hampshire, Vermont, Washington, and others. Non-resident moose tags are among the most expensive in hunting, ranging from $350 in Vermont to over $2,800 in Colorado. Most states use preference or bonus point systems, and hunters may wait years or even decades to draw a coveted tag. Alaska remains the most accessible state for non-resident moose hunters, offering general-season tags without a draw requirement, though non-resident tags cost $800. In states with draw systems, applicants who receive a moose license are typically ineligible to apply again for 5-7 years.
Scientific name: Alces alces
Moose Distribution Map
See where moose hunting is available across the United States.
Moose Hunting License Costs by State
Compare moose tag prices, seasons, and license methods across states.
| State | Resident Tag | Non-Resident Tag | Season | Method | Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | $27.00 | $500.00 | Oct | Draw | 1 moose |
| Alaska | $45.00 | $800.00 | Sep–Oct | Both | 1 moose |
| Colorado | $51.25 | $2823.53 | Sep–Nov | Draw | 1 moose |
| Maine | $52.00 | $585.00 | Sep–Nov | Draw | 1 moose |
| Montana | $125.00 | $1250.00 | Sep–Nov | Draw | 1 moose |
Prices sourced from official state wildlife agencies. Last updated: 2026-03-13.
Moose Hunting Tips & Resources
Know the Regulations
Before your hunt, always verify current season dates, bag limits, and legal methods with the state wildlife agency.
Scout Your Area
Use public land maps and trail cameras to identify moose habitat and travel patterns before season opens.
Safety First
Wear required blaze orange, carry your license, and follow all firearm safety rules while in the field.
Recommended Moose Hunting Gear
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Moose Hunting License FAQ
How hard is it to draw a moose tag?
Extremely difficult in most states. Colorado, Montana, and other western states may require 10-20+ years of accumulated preference or bonus points. Maine and New Hampshire offer bonus point systems that improve odds over time. Alaska is the only state with general-season (non-draw) moose tags for non-residents.
What is the cheapest moose tag for non-residents?
New Hampshire offers non-resident moose permits at $500 (if drawn), and Vermont at $350. However, draw odds are very competitive. Alaska offers non-resident moose tags at $800 without a draw requirement, making it the most accessible option.
Which state has the most moose hunting opportunities?
Alaska has by far the largest moose population and the most available tags. Maine issues around 3,000 moose permits annually through its lottery, making it the most accessible eastern state for moose hunting.