This expansive unit is located in the far northwest corner of the state, bordering Wyoming and South Dakota. It is one of the most sought-after elk hunting areas, attracting applicants for years. Due to the varied terrain, many hunters prefer spot-and-stalk methods, while others choose to observe promising crop fields in the mornings or evenings, similar to deer hunting. Most elk taken in this unit come from the east-central region near Crawford. Recently, both Dawes and Sioux counties have produced several record-book bulls. While there is a significant amount of public land available, elk activity tends to be concentrated on private properties. Given that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for residents, many fortunate tag holders decide to secure access to private areas. Bulls in this region can reach impressive sizes, but limited public hunting options can make success challenging.
August 1, 2026 – October 31, 2026
| Opportunity | Method | Availability | License or Permit | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antlerless | — | Draw |
| 2025 draw odds 1:6.8. Yes, see below (special unit restrictions). |
August 1, 2026 – January 31, 2027
| Opportunity | Method | Availability | License or Permit | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antlerless | — | Draw |
| Eligibility: Landowner 2025 draw odds 1:1.3. Yes, see below (special unit restrictions). |
September 1, 2026 – October 3, 2026
| Opportunity | Method | Availability | License or Permit | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Either-sex | Archery | Draw |
| Special Unit Restrictions: Yes, see below. Access permit required to hunt Fort Robinson SP and Fort Niobrara NWR. |
September 21, 2026 – October 31, 2026
| Opportunity | Method | Availability | License or Permit | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Either-sex | — | Draw |
| Special Unit Restrictions: Yes, see below. Access permit required to hunt Fort Robinson SP and Fort Niobrara NWR. |
November 1, 2026 – January 31, 2027
| Opportunity | Method | Availability | License or Permit | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antlerless | — | Draw |
| 2025 draw odds 1:6.7. Yes, see below (special unit restrictions). |
December 16, 2026 – December 31, 2026
| Opportunity | Method | Availability | License or Permit | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Either-sex | Archery | Draw |
| Special Unit Restrictions: Yes, see below. Access permit required to hunt Fort Robinson SP and Fort Niobrara NWR. |
December 16, 2026 – December 31, 2026
| Opportunity | Method | Availability | License or Permit | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Either-sex | — | Draw |
| Special Unit Restrictions: Yes, see below. Access permit required to hunt Fort Robinson SP and Fort Niobrara NWR. |
| Residency | Eligibility | Availability | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident | Landowner | — | $55.00Application fee $11.00Application fee included in priceNonrefundable |
| Resident | — | — | $210.00Application fee $11.00Application fee included in priceNonrefundable |
| Nonresident | Landowner | — | $602.00Application fee $11.00Application fee included in priceNonrefundable |
| Residency | Eligibility | Availability | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident | Landowner | Draw | $55.00Application fee $11.00Application fee included in priceNonrefundable |
| Resident | — | Draw | $210.00Application fee $11.00Application fee included in priceNonrefundable |
| Nonresident | Landowner | Draw | $602.00Application fee $11.00Application fee included in priceNonrefundable |
| — | — | Draw | —Application fee $11.00Nonrefundable |