This will be my first year hunting big game outside of A zone and this video cleared up all the questions I had about the drawing system. Thanks for making it simple and straight forward.
Appreciate the video. I grew up in Ohio where hunting was as easy as walking out back. Trying to figure out how to navigate California’s system is a big change.
A few years ago B zone was a premium tag (only for one year) but I was still able to purchase my second tag after the main drawing of was done in mid June. I think that is still the same and we can get two premium tags just can only apply for one premium tags in the beginning of June then get your second premium tag (assuming there are still tags left) immediately after the tags get issued in mid June.
Good vid! Folks should definitely look up the nearest ranger station or calfire station to where they're hunting and use that for validation. I do wonder how many people try to bring their deer to the local post office 😅
Thanks for watching! D13 was OTC last year, but you'll need to confirm that it is still OTC when the new handbook comes out. You can see the list on page 12
That's a great question. The regulations only specifically address rules that apply to tag-carrying hunters, but this is a gray area, and it would most likely depend on the warden's viewpoint. We suggest calling fish and game and asking a warden this question.
THANK YOU!!! One piece that I don’t understand is if the current hunting license expires in June, but the days to draw and purchase tags is in April, wouldn’t the current hunting license expire prior to the start of the new hunting season?
You are correct. In order to purchase hunting tags for the coming year, you must first purchase a license for the same year, i.e. your 2021 license won't allow you to buy tags for 2022, you must first purchase the 2022 license.
South Dakota is similar with a small game including most birds/varmint license but need for the seasons on Turkey then fall to winter for Deer, Elk (rare), Antelope, or Mountain Lion. Could get a combo license that has fishing and if you have both you can bowfish/maybe even just the fishing license. You do not need the small game licence to hunt big game but it is nice as you can go from deer if nothing is out to the small game/varmint license. Varmints/small game are Coyotes and smaller in South Dakota.
Can I hunt multiple zones with a archery only tag? I’m not sure how AO tags work. If I have 1 area specific tag like D13 that’s good for archery and general. But can I get a AO tag and hunt D9 or A? As long as they are unrestricted zones and I’m using archery equipment? Thanks your videos are great
Yes, you can hunt multiple zones with archery equipment and an AO tag. You’ll need to check the regs for the exact list of zones, but it includes A zone, the B zones, and D3-5.
You are correct. I didn’t mention that since this video was about deer hunting, and if you’re carrying a deer tag you can’t have a firearm during archery or while using an AO tag.
In another video it explains some stuff like the hunting license will be free shipping to my house but how do I get to print and how do I know what to print out?
Could you select 3 premium areas for your first tag? Then use your second tag for a non-draw area? I'm thinking for people who may not be able to devote the time to two tags, but want a better shot at more productive areas.
Good question. Yes you can, however, your chances of drawing most premium tags on a second or third choice are extremely slim. In order to draw a premium tag on a second or third choice, there has to be more tags available than first choice applications.
Trying to upgrade my 10x50 diamond backs, do you think the 12x50 vipers are an upgrade or spend the extra 500 and get the 12x50 razor HDs? I’d love to get the UHDs but they’re just too expensive for my budget right now….
The difference between 10 and 12 powered binos isn't extreme (especially since they are both 50's), but you will definitely notice a huge difference in the glass if you invest in the Razor's. Good glass is worth the money...
@@CacciaOutdoors I ended up going for the 12x50 Razors after days of contemplating… you guys really have helpful tips for someone who’s starting in this sport late, better late than never… great video too! Going for my first deer draw this year 👍
Everything you harvested should be present. often times a warden will want to see the accompanying meat. It has to be validated before any processing or meat storage anyway
That is correct. You need to take a hunter safety course and pass the test in order to purchase your hunting license. You only need to take the course, and once you pass the test you receive your Certificate number and it’s permanently on your record. Here’s more info wildlife.ca.gov/Hunter-Education
www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales/ go the above link, sign in, and then follow the links to purchase your license and apply for the draw. It's not a form, it's the 1st deer tag, and you will put your application choices in.
@@CacciaOutdoors I went to a new area and saw nothing. The wilderness area that know best I can't backpack by my self anymore so I m exploring new zones.
@@CacciaOutdoors so I did some research, and there are exemptions for peace officers (current and former), and licensed CCW holders. Going to read up some more, but that seems to be what it is. Which makes sense. Why would I be able to carry at the grocery store but not in the middle of nowhere.
@@StrateOutdoors The regulations are pretty clear about not carrying a firearm while deer hunting with an archery tag. It would be to the discretion of the warden if they choose to cite in a given scenario. We’ve been stopped by several wardens who asked if we had firearms (during archery), and they never asked about ccw.
@@CacciaOutdoors Looks like the CCW is an exemption for everything except deer hunting, and there is petitions now to get that changed. Definitely good idea to speak to the LEO in the area first and verify compliance.
Does anyone know say my I wanted my son is invited me to go deer hunting with him I'm not going to kill a deer you know but he wants to do I need a hunting license if I'm just going to like just be there to help him if you know if he shot a deer I mean I help him clean it and lug it to the car I'm definitely not going to shoot anything maybe a beer can or something but I'm not going to shoot no animal unless I'm getting attacked by something but is that do I need a hunting license to be out there basically that's what I'm trying to find out
I did my 1st choice a x zone and my 2 a either sex this will by first year so i figured either sex would be a good alos did but my kids so between 9 choices hopefully one of us gets picked haha but there also on J hunts so juniors only fingers crossed
Hunting is horrid out here, just horrid. 1. Pre rut 2. To many cultures that are not into conservation. They just take take take. Pouchers 3. All copper is a joke, even after the data has come in the stupid bird is still dieing. 4. Fish and game is not here to help you, they depend on fining you to survive.
As a beginner who wants to hunt a deer for the first time, this is amazingly helpful. Thank you for the information!
Glad we could help. Good luck!
Did you ever give it a start
This will be my first year hunting big game outside of A zone and this video cleared up all the questions I had about the drawing system. Thanks for making it simple and straight forward.
Glad we could help. Good luck!
This is possibly the best informational video on California hunting out there. Kudos 👍
Glad to help!
Found this channel today. I'm binging yall's videos, man. Thanks for explaining the whole license system. As a new hunter, it was pretty confusing.
Glad we could help
Appreciate the video. I grew up in Ohio where hunting was as easy as walking out back. Trying to figure out how to navigate California’s system is a big change.
Glad to help. Yeah it’s not easy…
Good Job young man. For new hunters I know the information you have given will help.
Thank you, sir!!
I'm 16, and I decided I wanted to get into hunting. This video was very informative, thanks.
Glad we could help
Getting into hunting this year. Amazing video! Thanks!
Good luck!
I'm trying to get into deer hunting and spend two days reading websites trying to figure everything out. Your video helped a ton. Thanks!
Glad to help
Thank you so Much for the information I'm trying to get in to hunting in California so this video really did help me.
Glad to help - good luck!
A few years ago B zone was a premium tag (only for one year) but I was still able to purchase my second tag after the main drawing of was done in mid June. I think that is still the same and we can get two premium tags just can only apply for one premium tags in the beginning of June then get your second premium tag (assuming there are still tags left) immediately after the tags get issued in mid June.
It wasn’t a premium tag, it was a restricted tag which is different.
Bless you sir.
Just what I needed, I pulled up the map with all the zones and damn near went cross eyed lol
Thumbs up and subbed, good shit
Haha! Glad to help! Good luck out there
Super crazy helpful this video was amazing
Glad to help, good luck out there
Thank you for clarifying it all . Sweet video man.
Apprentice your knowledge
Good luck this year
@@CacciaOutdoors thank you. I may have already put my foot in my mouth and lost a tag to a draw in x9b c and 10. But you live and you learn.
@@BestlifeNomad Hey, you still have those OTC hunting options
Good vid! Folks should definitely look up the nearest ranger station or calfire station to where they're hunting and use that for validation. I do wonder how many people try to bring their deer to the local post office 😅
Good idea! I’ve always wanted to take it to the post office just for fun 😂
Very helpful info. Thank you. Subscribed
Glad to help
Very thorough and helpful, thank you!
Glad it was helpful 👍
Thank you so much for this video . You answered so many question for this first time hunter .
Extremely helpful! Thank you!
Glad to help - good luck
Thank you. Your a big help.
Glad to help
Just in time, thanks man appreciate it 👍🏻
Good luck this year
Hey man great video but also I wanted to ask where you got that map from and if theirs an updated 2023 version of it
CADFW release an updated manual every year that includes a zone map. The manual comes out prior to tags going on sale in April.
Awesome video…answered a lot of questions I had! I’m looking to hunt deer in D13 and I’m wondering if this is an OTC zone/tag. Thanks a bunch!
Thanks for watching! D13 was OTC last year, but you'll need to confirm that it is still OTC when the new handbook comes out. You can see the list on page 12
It’s OTC, D11, D13 and D15 are basically the same tag Because if you buy D11 for example it will also say valid for D13 and D15
Great video! Thank you for all the great information.
Hope it helps 👍
Can you do a vid on what clothing and gear you use for hot July A zone hunts
Definitely!
@@CacciaOutdoors patiently waiting 😆 JK
If you are archery hunting in the field with a non hunter can that non hunter carry a firearm? Thank you for the tutorial.
That's a great question. The regulations only specifically address rules that apply to tag-carrying hunters, but this is a gray area, and it would most likely depend on the warden's viewpoint. We suggest calling fish and game and asking a warden this question.
This is a great question. I need to know this as well. I'd like to bring a friend with my to help spot deer but don't like the idea of being un armed
THANK YOU!!! One piece that I don’t understand is if the current hunting license expires in June, but the days to draw and purchase tags is in April, wouldn’t the current hunting license expire prior to the start of the new hunting season?
You are correct. In order to purchase hunting tags for the coming year, you must first purchase a license for the same year, i.e. your 2021 license won't allow you to buy tags for 2022, you must first purchase the 2022 license.
Great video! Is there any plans on making one for pigs?
South Dakota is similar with a small game including most birds/varmint license but need for the seasons on Turkey then fall to winter for Deer, Elk (rare), Antelope, or Mountain Lion. Could get a combo license that has fishing and if you have both you can bowfish/maybe even just the fishing license. You do not need the small game licence to hunt big game but it is nice as you can go from deer if nothing is out to the small game/varmint license. Varmints/small game are Coyotes and smaller in South Dakota.
Good to know
Can I hunt multiple zones with a archery only tag? I’m not sure how AO tags work. If I have 1 area specific tag like D13 that’s good for archery and general. But can I get a AO tag and hunt D9 or A? As long as they are unrestricted zones and I’m using archery equipment? Thanks your videos are great
Yes, you can hunt multiple zones with archery equipment and an AO tag. You’ll need to check the regs for the exact list of zones, but it includes A zone, the B zones, and D3-5.
I thought you could carry a sidearm while hunting any big game other than deer in California? Great video!
You are correct. I didn’t mention that since this video was about deer hunting, and if you’re carrying a deer tag you can’t have a firearm during archery or while using an AO tag.
I think the sidearm has to be loaded with non lead ammo too, yeah?
Thank so much. I’m still a little confused about the premium tag though. If last year’s quota was met, why would OTC areas become premium tag areas?
Tags are designated as premium only if they sell out before a certain date the year before
In another video it explains some stuff like the hunting license will be free shipping to my house but how do I get to print and how do I know what to print out?
Could you select 3 premium areas for your first tag? Then use your second tag for a non-draw area? I'm thinking for people who may not be able to devote the time to two tags, but want a better shot at more productive areas.
Good question. Yes you can, however, your chances of drawing most premium tags on a second or third choice are extremely slim. In order to draw a premium tag on a second or third choice, there has to be more tags available than first choice applications.
@@CacciaOutdoors ohh that makes sense!
So will you lose your tag if you select 3 premium zones and don't draw? Or can you still purchase a otc?
im a correctional officer which in ca we are peace officers soooooo can i counter sign my buddies tags when we are out hunting lol
LOL Nice!
Very helpful!
Trying to upgrade my 10x50 diamond backs, do you think the 12x50 vipers are an upgrade or spend the extra 500 and get the 12x50 razor HDs? I’d love to get the UHDs but they’re just too expensive for my budget right now….
The difference between 10 and 12 powered binos isn't extreme (especially since they are both 50's), but you will definitely notice a huge difference in the glass if you invest in the Razor's. Good glass is worth the money...
@@CacciaOutdoors I ended up going for the 12x50 Razors after days of contemplating… you guys really have helpful tips for someone who’s starting in this sport late, better late than never… great video too! Going for my first deer draw this year 👍
@@edgarlombera7066 Awesome, good luck! Let us know how you do
Had anytbing changed the released of this video ?
Probably. It’s always a good idea to read the rules handbook every year
To validate the tag, do I need to bring the whole animal to the person or just the antler is good enough?
Everything you harvested should be present. often times a warden will want to see the accompanying meat. It has to be validated before any processing or meat storage anyway
I’ve heard you need to take a class before being able to purchase the license how true is this? I’ve never hunted in California and I live here.
That is correct. You need to take a hunter safety course and pass the test in order to purchase your hunting license. You only need to take the course, and once you pass the test you receive your Certificate number and it’s permanently on your record. Here’s more info wildlife.ca.gov/Hunter-Education
is there any other drawing sites that are free or can i go to my local big5 and put an application there
You can apply for tags at any vendor that sells licenses, but the the website is the easiest place to get it done.
Can I just get a preference point? and not actually apply for the draw? I am used to this being the case in Utah and WY.
Good question, and yes you can
CA Fish n Game website is very confusing. Where do you go to apply for the draw? I can’t seem to find the form.
www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales/ go the above link, sign in, and then follow the links to purchase your license and apply for the draw. It's not a form, it's the 1st deer tag, and you will put your application choices in.
@@CacciaOutdoors thanks! Done ✅ 🦌 🏷
Could you post the link? I dont see it. Fir the new laws and regs?
nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=193376&inline Here you go
Thank you
The only problems with this video is that it gives out wat too much information.
Thanks
B zone has 2 weeks in between bow and general
True
Is Hunting license requires before applying the deer tag?
Yes
Hey how did it go last year?
Pretty good, 4 out of 6 tags filled between the two of us
@@CacciaOutdoors Fantastic!
@@cordelmar how about you?
@@CacciaOutdoors I went to a new area and saw nothing. The wilderness area that know best I can't backpack by my self anymore so I m exploring new zones.
@@cordelmar Well hopefully you have better luck this year. Let us know how it goes
Show the zones by area . SGMnts SB mnts or by county Inyo Fresno so we new or want to go hunters know where X1 is or C or A
You can easily find that information on the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website
Can adults apply for apprentice deer hunts?
Good question. We don’t think so, but you’ll want to confirm that.
I have always wanted to go and I am nervous cause I am not a rich person.
You don't need to be rich. You just need a few basics and your license and tag
So I cannot carry a sidearm if I'm out bow hunting? WTF. With the mountain lions out here?!? I hate that
Correct. Make the first arrow shot count!
@@CacciaOutdoors so I did some research, and there are exemptions for peace officers (current and former), and licensed CCW holders. Going to read up some more, but that seems to be what it is. Which makes sense. Why would I be able to carry at the grocery store but not in the middle of nowhere.
@@StrateOutdoors The regulations are pretty clear about not carrying a firearm while deer hunting with an archery tag. It would be to the discretion of the warden if they choose to cite in a given scenario. We’ve been stopped by several wardens who asked if we had firearms (during archery), and they never asked about ccw.
@@CacciaOutdoors Looks like the CCW is an exemption for everything except deer hunting, and there is petitions now to get that changed. Definitely good idea to speak to the LEO in the area first and verify compliance.
Does anyone know say my I wanted my son is invited me to go deer hunting with him I'm not going to kill a deer you know but he wants to do I need a hunting license if I'm just going to like just be there to help him if you know if he shot a deer I mean I help him clean it and lug it to the car I'm definitely not going to shoot anything maybe a beer can or something but I'm not going to shoot no animal unless I'm getting attacked by something but is that do I need a hunting license to be out there basically that's what I'm trying to find out
I did my 1st choice a x zone and my 2 a either sex this will by first year so i figured either sex would be a good alos did but my kids so between 9 choices hopefully one of us gets picked haha but there also on J hunts so juniors only fingers crossed
Good luck! Let us know if you draw
@@CacciaOutdoors will do might need some painters
man is so freaking complicated. this helps, but im just to dumb to understand all this
This is like an algebra word problem
Ha! Great description.
Hunting is horrid out here, just horrid. 1. Pre rut 2. To many cultures that are not into conservation. They just take take take. Pouchers 3. All copper is a joke, even after the data has come in the stupid bird is still dieing. 4. Fish and game is not here to help you, they depend on fining you to survive.
Regarding copper, we are recoding a podcast on Friday on the lead vs copper subject.
its next to impossible to get a tag in CA unless you blew a politician in college
California just gotta make everything so f#$ken complicated
Too complicated with all these BS regulations , just hunt out of this state.
Every state has unique regulations, some even more complex than California.
What about the Junior/youth hunt opportunities? The youth doe hunts. DFW site is terrible.