2022 Ky Elk Draw Results

The Kentucky elk zone, spanning over 16 southeastern counties and covering more than 4.3 million acres, is divided into elk units to ensure fair hunting pressure distribution across the area. The state's fish and wildlife department has made public access areas available for hunting enthusiasts.

For the 2022 drawing, a total of 594 permits are up for grabs. These include 175 archery/crossbow permits for both bulls and cows, as well as 150 firearm permits for bulls and 244 firearm permits for cows. Additionally, there are 25 youth-only permits available for youths aged 15 or younger.

The drawing process is designed to ensure fairness. Applicants are assigned unique numbers, and their names are removed from electronic applications before the computer-generated drawing takes place. The results are then certified for accuracy and presented at a live event hosted by Kentucky Fish and Wildlife.

An independent audit conducted by a private accounting company ensures the integrity of each year's drawing. Moreover, the Commonwealth Office of Technology, the state's information technology agency, oversees the drawing process.

Elk permit applicants can only draw one permit per year, and those who have been successful in the past must wait three years before reapplying. However, it's worth noting that a license purchase is not necessary to apply, but if an applicant is drawn, they will need to obtain an annual hunting license and the applicable elk permit.

Applicants can choose from three available permit types: firearms for bull elk, firearms for cow elk, and archery/crossbow for both bulls and cows. The application fees collected contribute to supporting Kentucky's elk management, research, and public hunting access initiatives.

Under state regulations, at least 90 percent of the issued permits are reserved for residents each year. With three types of permits available through a randomized drawing open to both residents and non-residents, hunters from across the country can participate in this exciting experience.

Ky elk draw results 2022