The Kentucky Elk Lottery: From Long Shot to Long Rifle

The Kentucky Elk Lottery: From Long Shot to Long Rifle

In 1997, Kentucky had no elk. Now, we boast the largest elk herd east of the Mississippi, with over 10,000 elk roaming our southeastern mountains.

Counties such as Breathitt, Knott, Leslie, and Perry have become prime elk habitat.​

The Elk Lottery – What’s the Deal?

The Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife runs an elk permit lottery each year. Hunters can apply for $10 per entry between January 1 and April 30.

In May, winners are drawn and assigned permits based on their application choices.​

Permit types available:

• Firearm Bull

• Firearm Cow

• Archery Bull

• Archery Cow

• Youth-only Either-Sex​

Hunters may apply for each permit type once per year. If drawn, there is a three-year waiting period before reapplying for the same permit type.

How to Sign Up

1. Visit fw.ky.gov

2. Log in or create an account

3. Select your elk lottery entries

4. Pay $10 per application

5. Await the May draw results​

Successful applicants will be notified in May. Depending on the permit, hunts will be scheduled between September and December.​​

For more information on elk hunting in Kentucky, refer to the 2024-2025 Elk Report.​

Harvest Rates (2019–2024)

Elk harvest numbers have remained strong:​

• 2019: 402 harvested

• 2020: 434 harvested

• 2021: 416 harvested

• 2022: 482 harvested

• 2023: 509 harvested

• 2024: 500 permits issued; detailed harvest data pending

  • Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife​

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