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 tags remain the most coveted in North America for 2026, with the vast majority allocated through highly competitive lottery systems. Opportunities exist in Alaska and select lower-48 states including Maine, New Hampshire, and several Rocky Mountain states. For the 2026 draw cycle, non-resident tag prices remain at premium levels, often exceeding $2,000 in the West. Alaska continues to offer the most accessible path for non-residents via general-season tags in certain units. Most draw systems in the lower-48 utilize preference or bonus points, with 2026 draw odds remaining low due to record applicant numbers.
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: 2026-04-01.
See the full 50-state base license cost comparison →
Compare total non-resident costs for moose hunting across multiple states →
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.