Quick Answer
In Nevada, hunting desert bighorn sheep is regulated by the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW). A hunter must first obtain a special permit through the NDOW's Desert Bighorn Sheep Permit Program, which requires an application and a drawing. The permits are issued for specific areas and timeframes.
Permit and Application Process
To hunt desert bighorn sheep in Nevada, you must first apply for the permit through the NDOW’s Desert Bighorn Sheep Permit Program. The application period typically opens in late spring, and hunters are encouraged to submit their applications early, as the drawing is usually held in late summer. The permit is issued for a specific area and timeframe, and hunters can only apply for one permit per year.
Hunting Season and Bag Limits
The desert bighorn sheep hunting season in Nevada typically runs from mid-September to mid-November, with a four-ram limit. Hunters are allowed to take one bighorn ram per permit, and the use of motorized vehicles is restricted in certain areas. Hunters are also required to have a valid Nevada hunting license and to follow all applicable regulations, including those related to harvest reporting and carcass disposal.
Additional Regulations and Requirements
In addition to the permit and application process, hunters must also comply with other regulations, including those related to firearms and hunting equipment. For example, hunters are required to use a minimum of a .30-06 caliber rifle for desert bighorn sheep, and are prohibited from using night vision scopes or thermal imaging devices. Hunters must also follow all applicable regulations related to the handling and transportation of the animal after harvest, including those related to carcass tags and transportation permits.
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