Hunters can now apply for the 2026 limited-entry hunting draw, with new regulations affecting several hunting opportunities in the Kootenay region.
The province said the draw helps manage wildlife populations and allocates hunting opportunities in areas where demand exceeds availability.
Among the changes for 2026-27 are updates to mountain goat hunting in parts of the Kootenay region and elk hunting opportunities in parts of the region.
The province reviews limited-entry hunting regulations every two years. Officials said the latest changes are based on wildlife population data, conservation priorities, crowding concerns, public and stakeholder feedback, and consultations with First Nations.
Hunters can apply for the 2026 draw through the Wildlife Information and Licensing Data system, known as WILD.
Applicants must be B.C. residents, have a valid fish and wildlife ID and submit an application by 11:59 p.m. June 23, 2026.
Hunters with overdue mandatory hunter reports or permit-to-accompany reports are not eligible to apply until those reports are submitted.
Application fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. The province said refunds will not be issued for incorrect applications and encouraged hunters to review the 2026-27 limited-entry hunting regulations synopsis before applying.
Applicants can check results through WILD, at FrontCounter BC, Service BC locations or participating vendors. Successful applicants with an email address linked to their fish and wildlife ID profile will also receive email notification.
Hunters selected through the draw will receive authorization at no additional cost, but must still purchase a hunting licence and the appropriate species licence before hunting.
