2023/2024 Upland Game Bird Stamp Art Contest winning entry of wild turkeys by artist Jeffrey Klinefelter of Etna Green, Indiana.
CDFW special hunts are specially managed hunting opportunities on public and private lands for upland game birds and game mammals. Special hunts are available to anyone with a valid annual California hunting license and any required validations or applicant statuses, for which the department may issue permits where participation is limited to a set number of available permits. Hunters must apply for Special Hunt permits in ALDS. Special hunt permits will be awarded by random drawing unless indicated as "issued upon request", in the hunt description. To apply hunters must have a valid California hunting license. Adult hunters who hunt upland game birds must also purchase an Upland Game Bird Stamp.
- Deadline to apply to these hunts is approximately 21 days prior to the season opener for the species.
- The application period will open approximately 51 days prior to the season opener for the species.
- A single drawing will be conducted within 5 business days of the application deadline.
- To apply for these hunts, visit our internet sales site, sign into your account, select the “Purchase Licenses” link and select “2024 – Hunting” from the menu on the left side of the page. Application may also be purchased at retail license agents or in person at CDFW License Sales Offices.
- Successful applicants will be notified by USPS mail once the draw has been completed. Unsuccessful applicants will not be notified. Drawing results can be viewed by logging into your ALDS account.
- All members of a hunting party must apply and be drawn through the ALDS to attend a hunt. Unless the special hunt permit specifies that one or more guests are allowed, only hunters listed on the official roster will be admitted to a hunt.
- Nonlead ammunition is required when taking any wildlife with a firearm anywhere in California.
Special hunt opportunities, application deadlines and other hunt information are listed under the species tabs below.
Hunt Schedule