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Over-the-Counter Tags

Hunt This Season: Guided Adventures with Over-the-Counter (OTC) Tags through Outdoors International

Want to go hunting without the stress and uncertainty of waiting for draw results? Outdoors International is your expert connection to a wide array of premier, vetted hunting opportunities in regions offering readily available Over-the-Counter (OTC) tags for a variety of game species. This is your chance to secure a fantastic guided hunt for Elk, Deer, Bear, Turkey, and more, primarily across the United States and parts of Canada, often with excellent outfitters who specialize in these accessible areas. Plan your adventure with certainty, knowing your tag is obtainable, at no extra cost compared to booking direct.


Over-the-Counter tags allow eligible hunters to purchase a license for a specific species and season directly, without participating in a competitive lottery draw. While this provides a guaranteed opportunity to hunt, success in OTC units often hinges on expert local knowledge, access to productive areas (both public and private), and strategies to navigate potentially higher hunter numbers. This is where a quality, vetted outfitter becomes invaluable. Our experienced consultants understand which states and units offer the best OTC opportunities and can match you with top-tier guides who consistently produce results for their clients in these areas.

  • Benefits of Guided OTC Tag Hunts:

    • Guaranteed Hunting Opportunity: Plan your hunt with confidence, knowing you can secure a tag.
    • Hunt More Often: OTC tags allow you to hunt sought-after species more frequently without waiting years to draw a limited-entry permit.
    • Flexibility: Often provides more flexibility in choosing dates and locations compared to highly restrictive draw hunts.
    • Great for All Hunters: Perfect for those new to Western hunting, experienced hunters who were unsuccessful in draws, or anyone looking for a reliable annual hunting adventure.
    • Value of a Guide: In OTC units, a guide's expertise in finding game, understanding local patterns, accessing less-pressured spots, and providing quality camp/logistics is even more critical for success and enjoyment.
  • Popular Species & Destinations for OTC Tag Hunts (Availability varies by state/province & residency): We connect hunters with outfitters in areas offering OTC tags for species like:

    • Elk: Several Western U.S. states, such as Idaho and Colorado, are well-known for offering OTC elk tags for archery and certain rifle seasons in many units. Oregon also has some OTC options.
    • Mule Deer & Whitetail Deer: Many states across the U.S. and Canada offer OTC deer tags for general seasons, especially for archery. Some rifle deer tags are also available OTC in specific states or units. Texas whitetail hunting on private land largely functions with readily available licenses.
    • Black Bear: Numerous states in the U.S. (e.g., Idaho, Montana, many Eastern and Midwestern states) and Canadian provinces offer OTC bear tags for spring or fall seasons.
    • Wild Turkey: Tags for America's favorite game bird are available OTC in most states with turkey populations.
    • Pronghorn Antelope: While many top pronghorn units are draw-only, some states offer OTC archery tags or have general units with high tag availability.
    • Feral Hogs: Licenses/tags are almost always OTC (or not required at all) in states where they are considered nuisance animals, like Texas and Florida.
    • Small Game & Other Species: Most small game, varmint, and some upland bird licenses are typically OTC.
  • How Outdoors International Helps with Your OTC Hunt:

    • We identify the best states, regions, and specific outfitters that specialize in productive OTC hunting areas.
    • Our consultants advise on current tag availability, season dates, and specific regulations.
    • We match you with vetted guides who have a proven track record of success in OTC units, often with access to private land or expert knowledge of public land sweet spots.
    • We help you understand what to expect in an OTC environment and how to prepare for a successful hunt.

While OTC tags offer accessibility, a successful and enjoyable hunt still requires careful planning and often the expertise of a professional outfitter who knows how to make the most of these opportunities. Outdoors International is committed to finding you the best possible guided OTC hunt, leveraging our extensive network and knowledge.

Ready to secure your next hunting adventure with an Over-the-Counter tag? Contact an Outdoors International consultant today to explore the many exciting OTC opportunities available!

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