Utah's Hunting Program

Throughout my years of hunting, I have been privileged to guide and hunt across various states, ranging from Alaska in the north to Texas in the south, with Utah, Wyoming, and Idaho in between. Most states offer specialized programs for hunting on private lands. It appears to be increasingly challenging to obtain permits everywhere. Some states allocate tags for private properties that can be sold by landowners or outfitters. In Utah, this program is known as the Cooperative Wildlife Management Unit (CWMU). All the ranches where RVO conducts hunts in Utah participate in this program. CWMUs are established for hunting turkeys, antelope, deer, elk, and moose; some are designated for a single species, while others accommodate multiple species. The size of the land is a crucial factor; CWMUs for turkey, antelope, and deer require a minimum of 5,000 acres, whereas elk and moose require at least 10,000 acres. An additional benefit of the program is the extended hunting seasons. CWMUs can offer up to 60 consecutive days of hunting, especially when including the archery season. During this 60-day period, hunters may utilize any legal weapon, including bows (excluding crossbows), muzzleloaders, and rifles; crossbows may be permitted in specific cases with a doctor's approval for disabilities. Generally, ranches within the CWMU program have a significantly lower harvest rate compared to adjacent public lands. The average Boone and Crockett score for animals is typically much higher. CWMU ranches focus on improving herd size and the quality of game. A portion of the tags for each ranch is allocated to public state hunters, providing them the chance to hunt on these premium properties that would otherwise be inaccessible. Overall, the CWMU program serves as an exceptional tool for wildlife management and quality control in Utah, and we at Round Valley Outfitters take pride in being a part of it.