Managing Point Creep | May 2025 Soapbox

A little over a decade ago, I put together an aggressive plan to apply for multiple hunting tags across the western states. Back then, I had my sights set on several “dream units,” believing that with time, I would eventually draw one of those coveted tags. However, as the years have passed, the reality of point creep has made many of those units increasingly out of reach.
 
Fortunately, my investment into accumulating points isn’t as bad as some. I have roughly 10-12 points in most states, unlike some hunters who have 20-30+ years of points tied up in the hopes of drawing a once-in-a-lifetime tag. However, with point creep continuing to rise and trophy quality declining in many areas, I’ve adjusted my approach. Instead of continuing to build points waiting for the perfect opportunity, I’ve decided to prioritize hunting more often in quality units rather than holding out for an incrementally better one. That doesn’t mean I’m giving up on the dream tags entirely. I’ll still take a few big swings each year in hopes of drawing that golden ticket. In states where I’m close to reaching my goal, I’ll continue to build points. For the most part, though, my new strategy is simple: be aggressive, apply wisely, and go on more hunts each year.
 
I don’t want to sit on the sidelines hoping for a system that likely won’t improve for non-residents. The unfortunate reality is that tag allocations and herd management don’t seem to be moving in a direction that will benefit trophy quality in the coming years. Rather than fixating on the value of my points, I’m choosing to focus on the value of the experience itself. Hunting more often and making memories in the field is far more rewarding than waiting indefinitely for something that may never come.