Give The Gift Of Outdoor Adventures With Utah Licenses

As holiday shoppers look for unique gift ideas this December, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is encouraging residents to think beyond traditional presents and consider something that lasts all year. Hunting and fishing licenses, along with registration fees for Utah’s various wildlife challenges, offer outdoors enthusiasts an opportunity to explore nature in new ways while supporting conservation efforts statewide.

While many people associate hunting and fishing with warmer months, winter in Utah provides abundant opportunities for both activities. Ice fishing draws anglers to frozen lakes across the state, and several upland game hunts continue through much of the winter, including seasons for cottontail rabbit, chukar and gray partridge, snowshoe hare and the fall turkey hunts. Because Utah’s annual fishing and hunting licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, recipients can begin using them immediately, regardless of the season.

“Hunting and fishing are some of the most incredible ways to experience the beautiful outdoors of Utah because you get to explore an area in ways you likely wouldn’t otherwise,” Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Licensing Coordinator Lindy Varney said in a press release. “A combination license is the gift that keeps on giving because you can use it year-round for both fishing and hunting. It’s a healthy, fun way to spend time outdoors with your loved ones. Buying a license is also a great way to fund wildlife conservation in the state, since the majority of the license funds go toward important habitat restoration, research and other conservation projects.”

Grab Licenses Online Or At DWR Offices

Licenses can be purchased online, at any of the six DWR offices, or through authorized license agents across Utah. Combination licenses that allow both fishing and small-game hunting are also available. To purchase a license as a gift, buyers will need basic information about the recipient, including name, physical description, date of birth, mailing address and phone number. Online orders can be mailed either to the purchaser for wrapping or directly to the recipient, though buyers should allow about 10 days for delivery. For adults, licenses valid for up to five years are an option, and current licenses can be extended if they are within six months of expiration.

Gift givers should note that basic hunting and combination licenses do not include deer or elk permits. Hunters may apply for a 2026 general-season buck deer permit in March, and general-season elk permits will be available in July on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read More: Keeping Invasive Species Out Of Utah

For those who enjoy wildlife but prefer not to hunt or fish, Utah’s growing collection of outdoor “slams” offers additional gift options. The Utah Birding Slam, launched in September, invites participants to complete one or more of six bird-watching challenges designed to encourage exploration and species identification. Registration costs $20 for adults and $10 for youth, with proceeds supporting habitat and research projects.

Anglers may enjoy the Utah Cutthroat Slam, which challenges participants to catch the four native cutthroat trout subspecies in their historic ranges. Registration is $20 for adults and $10 for youth, and funds support native trout conservation. Those who complete the slam can now choose from four available medallions.

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Hunters seeking added challenges may appreciate the Utah Waterfowl Slam or Utah Upland Game Slam. Waterfowl participants work to harvest species according to specific requirements and earn collectible leg bands, while upland game hunters can complete eight slams for commemorative coins. Both programs cost $20 for adults and $10 for youth, with proceeds reinvested into habitat improvements across the state.

Whether for anglers, hunters or bird-watchers, Utah’s licenses and wildlife challenges offer memorable, meaningful holiday gifts that support conservation while encouraging time spent in nature.