Preference Point

[jmikes]

I drew my 2nd choice this year. Was wondering if I chose not to hunt that season do I still retain my preference points for the following year.

[Dave S]

I don't believe you do. Since you were drawn for your second choice, your preference points will go back to 1.

[Powerstroke]

If you accept your second choice you will lose all preference points and start over.

[woody1975]

I believe if you choose a second choice and get drawn, whether you choose to hunt it or not, your preference points go back to one.

DL

[gundy89]

I just applied for the first time this year and didn't get drawn. Can anyone give me the jist on how the preference points work? Thanks guys.

[Swamp Scooter]

Just like deer hunting used to be. Lottery for available tags. Excess apps get a point for this year but no tag. Unless it is archery, over the counter, and then I believe you keep your points for gun tags.

[Powerstroke]

To actually answer the question,

Pref points start at one. If you apply but don't get drawn your points go to 2 and then 3 and so on.

Well, if 1000 people apply for 500 tags then the person with the highest perf points get tags first. First the 3's would get their tags, then the 2's if there was tags left and so on.

Some areas in MN can be a 3yr wait if you're trying to get a popular zone with the A season. This is a very popular system and is used in many states for high demand low availablility tags. Some people wait more than 5 years for selective tags for elk out west, moose and sheep.