Hunters in Kentucky now have a new way to support wildlife conservation and possibly secure exclusive hunting opportunities.
The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources is selling entries for special fundraising permit packages through May 30, 2026. Winners will be chosen in a random electronic drawing and announced at fw.ky.gov no later than June 10, 2026.
Two of the packages include rare elk hunting privileges not available through the standard elk drawing. Each package also comes with a complimentary two-night lodge stay at any Kentucky state resort park, courtesy of Kentucky State Parks.
Permit packages include:
+ Elk Hunt Sweepstakes Permit – one elk of either sex.
+ Premium Combination Big Game Permit – one elk of either sex, plus a bonus deer, black bear, and spring turkey permit.
+ Standard Combination Big Game Permit – a bonus deer, black bear, and spring turkey permit.
Kentucky residents and nonresidents may enter for the Elk Hunt Sweepstakes or Premium Combination Big Game permit, but only one of each will be awarded. Two Standard Combination Big Game permits will also be given—one to a Kentucky resident and one to a nonresident.
Entries are available only through the department’s website by clicking the “Buy Licenses” button.
Entry fees include:
+ Elk Hunt Sweepstakes & Premium Combination permits: Residents $5 for one, $10 for three, $25 for 10. Nonresidents $10 for one, $20 for three, $50 for 10.
+ Standard Combination Big Game permit: Residents $3 for one, $8 for three, $20 for 10. + Nonresidents $6 for one, $16 for three, $40 for 10.
Permits will be valid for the fall 2026 elk, deer, and bear seasons, and the spring 2027 turkey season.
Elk permits are valid in any elk unit, with any legal equipment, during any elk season, and may be transferred to an immediate family member under certain conditions. Bonus permits allow the winner to harvest an additional deer, bear, and turkey beyond statewide limits.
Winners must still purchase a standard Kentucky hunting license at regular cost.
