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. Hunters must be successfully drawn through the ALDS random drawing application to participate. 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(opens in new tab), 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(opens in new tab) 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 hunters must apply and be drawn through the ALDS to attend a hunt. 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