Nevada Big Game Applications: Strategy, Bonus Points and Hunt Choices

Nevada Big Game Applications: Strategy, Bonus Points and Hunt Choices

Still working on your Nevada big game applications? This week on Nevada Wild, Aaron Keller and Bobby Jones sit down with Data and Technology Services Administrator Matt Maples to talk all things big game draw strategy ahead of the May 13 application deadline. The crew breaks down how Nevada’s draw system works, common mistakes hunters make when selecting hunt choices, why bonus points matter and how hunters can improve their odds by taking advantage of opportunity hunts and all five hunt choices. Matt also shares insight into how the application process works behind the scenes, what hunters should be paying attention to before the deadline, and why getting your application submitted early can save a lot of stress later on. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or a seasoned hunter looking to fine tune your strategy, this episode is packed with useful tips before Wednesday’s 11 p.m. PST deadline. Apply for tags at ndowlicensing.com or call 855-542-6369 for assistance.

Junior Hunter Tips for Nevada’s Big Game Draw

This week on Nevada Wild, Aaron Keller and Bobby Jones sit down with NDOW Conservation Educator Logan Klonicke to talk all things junior big game hunting in Nevada. From Nevada’s strong junior hunter opportunities to application strategies and changes coming to the 2026 season, this episode is packed with helpful information for young hunters and their families. The crew also covers open hunter education classes, tips for navigating the draw process, and what junior hunters should know before applying. If you know a junior hunter, or you’re a parent looking to get your kid into the outdoors, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. The Nevada Big Game Draw application deadline is May 13 at 11 p.m.  Apply today at ndowlicensing.com.

Nevada Mule Deer and Antelope Hot Spots - Cody Schroeder

Nevada big game hunters, this one’s for you.  This week on the Nevada Wild podcast, Aaron Keller and Bobby Jones sit down with NDOW Big Game Staff Specialist Cody Schroeder to talk all things Mule Deer and Pronghorn across the Silver State. From strong overwinter survival and rebounding deer herds in the Rubies to antelope numbers nearing all-time highs, there’s a lot to be excited about heading into this season. Plus, Cody breaks down key updates to junior tags and even shares a few areas to keep in mind when you’re putting in your application.

Nevada's Elk Main Beams and Tooth Rings, Oh and Moose - Cody McKee

This week Aaron Keller and Bobby Jones sit down with NDOW's Big Game Staff Specialist Cody McKee to hear how Elk and Moose are doing in the Silver State.   Cody shares how NDOW’s new adaptive elk management plan may affect tag quotas and gives some great insight into how these herds are managed. Spoiler alert, thanks to teeth collected from hunter harvested bulls in 2025 we can say that Nevada’s average bull elk age is the highest on record. He also talks about how well moose are doing across the state.

The Biologist, The Mentor, The Legend - Kim Tisdale

In this week’s Nevada Wild, Aaron Keller and Bobby Jones sit down with outgoing fisheries biologist extraordinaire Kim Tisdale to reflect on her 31-year career with NDOW. Kim shares the different roles she’s held over the years, highlights some of her favorite projects, and gives us a peek behind the curtain at the exciting changes coming to the Nevada Native Fish Slam Program. Kim is revered at NDOW not only as an exceptional biologist, but also as a friend and a mentor to many, and she will be sincerely missed. Be sure to give this week’s podcast a listen, and check out the link to the video below to learn more about Kim Tisdale and her incredible career. Kim talks about the different jobs she’s had here, highlights some of her favorite projects, and gives us a peek behind the curtain at the exciting changes coming to the Nevada Native Fish Slam Program. Kim is revered here at the Department as a biologist, a friend, and a mentor to many, she will be sincerely missed. Make sure to give this week’s podcast a listen and checkout the link to the video below to learn all about Kim Tisdale!