deer

Hunters can get in on Saskatchewan's big game draw opening up on May 1st.

The big game draw is a method of allocating of a limited number of hunting licenses to Saskatchewan residents through the province's automated hunting, angling, and trapping license (HAL) system.

"All of the processes associated with the big game draft draw are now handled through the HAL system, which allows a customer to do everything such as submitting an application, reviewing your application, checking pool status, purchasing your licenses, everything all in one convenient location," said Wildlife Allocations Specialist, Travis Williams. "We've been selling licenses through the HAL system for what will be our third season, but this is the first year the big game draw has been offered through the active network system. Users should see an improved customer experience with everything being available through their online HAL account, so it'll be easier for you to apply and check your applications while you're buying your fishing license, for example."

This year's draw includes licenses for elk, moose, either-sex mule deer and antlerless mule deer.

"Most species will be very popular this year," added Williams. "Moose in the farmland zones will be a highly contested license to draw, but we have high demand for almost all of our species. In terms of deer, populations for mule deer are similar to last year and our quotas will reflect that through the draw. The white-tailed deer is a regular license for Saskatchewan residents so they don't need to enter a draw for that, but other Canadian residents do."

Williams says licenses are mailed out and you will not be able to purchase your license until August 1st, adding that it is strongly recommended to apply early.

Applications for the big game draw must be submitted by midnight on June 2nd.