Frankfort, KY –-(Ammoland.com)- 1,000 applicants will be randomly drawn in early May to hunt the largest elk herd east of the Rocky Mountains this fall. Hunters must apply online by April 30th 2014 (midnight Eastern time) to enter the drawing for 2014 Kentucky elk hunt. Entries are only $10 each.
Kentucky offers a variety of elk hunting opportunities, with seasons spanning September through December. Applicants may apply for 1 or 2 of the 4 permit types: firearm bull, archery bull, firearm cow, and archery cow. Crossbows may be used with archery permits during designated timeframes. Those age 15 and under may also apply for special youth, bull/cow permits.
Elk hunter success is about 70% in Kentucky. The number of permits available has steadily increased since the hunt’s inception in 2001, beginning with just 12 permits. Those drawn to hunt must purchase a current annual hunting license plus an elk permit. Hunters may bring along as many helpers as desired. Last year’s odds of being drawn and more details are posted at fw.ky.gov.
The elk hunt is held in 16 southeastern counties that occupy 4.2 million acres—an area larger than Yellowstone National Park. There are over a half-million acres of public land in the elk hunt area, along with abundant private land. Private guide/outfitter services are also available.
Kentucky’s elk restoration program is one of modern wildlife management’s greatest success stories. Elk restocking began in 1997 with the release of 7 animals, after elk were extirpated from the Bluegrass State nearly 200 years before. A total of 1,554 elk were reintroduced in Kentucky over 5 years, with animals provided by 6 western states having healthy elk populations. The herd reached the target of 10,000 animals in less than 10 years.
Those interested in the hunt should apply now. The deadline is midnight April 30. Don’t allow last minute Internet problems or unexpected diversions keep you from the “Happy Hunting Ground” that is Kentucky!
Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources conserves and enhances fish and wildlife resources and provides opportunity for hunting, fishing, trapping, boating, and other wildlife-related activities in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Elk hunt drawing proceeds support elk conservation, research, and opportunities for elk-related recreation in Kentucky. For more information, please visit fw.ky.gov.