Drawn West

Drawn West with Brian Krebs
  • 5.0 (263)
  • WILDERNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Drawn West is for the hunters who load the truck each fall — chasing bugles, big country, and something deeper than just filling a tag. Host Brian Krebs dives into tag strategies, gear prep, and real-world advice to help non-resident hunters make the most of limited time out West. Each episode features expert guests and gritty stories from hunters you’ve never heard of — the kind who get it done with one week, one tag, and no excuses.

  1. Colorado Antelope Strategy 2026 — Units, Points & Draw Odds

    3H AGO

    Colorado Antelope Strategy 2026 — Units, Points & Draw Odds

    If you’re already applying in Colorado… you might be missing one of the easiest hunts you can add. In this Colorado Antelope breakdown, Brian walks through exactly how to approach the 2026 application—what it costs, what kind of hunt you can expect, and how to actually pick a unit based on your point level. With the April 7 deadline looming, this episode focuses on strategy—especially for hunters already in the Colorado system. Antelope might not be the flashiest tag in the West, but it can be one of the most efficient ways to add a hunt to your fall if you’re already applying for deer or elk. Brian also dives into herd recovery after the brutal 2023 winter, what realistic trophy expectations look like (and where they’re better than advertised), and how public land access—not trophy size—is often the biggest factor in draw odds. From zero points to 20+ year strategies, this is a practical, no-BS walkthrough of how to actually use your points—and whether it’s worth waiting or just going hunting. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram. If you enjoyed this, leave a 5-star rating and share the show with a friend. Looking for more content from Drawn West? Check out our latestarticle!ColoradoElk Application Strategy FREE Gear Checklist: https://www.getdrawnwest.com/gear Connect with Brian Krebshttps://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!Sponsorsand Discounts:GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4GOHUNTGear Shop – 10% off most items with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/e75Pm4uSave10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code DRAWNWEST https://maverickhunting.com/?ref=getdrawnwest

    20 min
  2. Colorado Elk - Changes, Points, and Best Elk Units

    2D AGO

    Colorado Elk - Changes, Points, and Best Elk Units

    Thinking of an elk hunt this year? Colorado needs to be on your radar! In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of the Drawn West Podcast, we dig into Colorado elk—what’s changing, what’s coming next, and where the real opportunity still lives depending on your point level. Colorado is still the center of the elk hunting world, but it’s evolving. OTC archery has shifted, rifle tags could follow, and a major draw system change in 2028 is starting to reshape how people think about points. At the same time, there are still ways to hunt every single year—if you’re looking at it the right way. We walk through how different point levels actually play out, where things quietly open up, and why some strategies look better on paper than they do in reality. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re playing Colorado the right way—or just want to understand it a little deeper—this one’s worth your time. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram. If you enjoyed this, leave a 5-star rating and share the show with a friend. Looking for more content from Drawn West? Check out our latestarticle!Forging TheFuture: Benchmade’s Newest Blade Technology   FREE Gear Checklist: https://www.getdrawnwest.com/gear Connect with Brian Krebshttps://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!Sponsorsand Discounts:GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4GOHUNT GearShop – 10% off most items with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/e75Pm4uSave10% onMaverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code DRAWNWEST https://maverickhunting.com/?ref=getdrawnwest 00:00 – Colorado Elk Overview01:10 – Deadline & Point Rules02:00 – OTC Archery Changes03:30 – Future Rifle Tag Changes04:30 – Colorado Elk Costs05:30 – Draw System Explained07:00 – 2028 System Changes09:00 – Elk Population & Trophy Potential11:30 – Using Unit Data & GoHunt13:00 – Best Units (0 Points)15:30 – Best Units (3 Points)17:30 – The 7–20 Point Dead Zone19:30 – High Point Strategy21:30 – Final Application Advice

    25 min
  3. Colorado Mule Deer

    3D AGO

    Colorado Mule Deer

    Colorado is the king of Mule Deer States – and this episode we breakdown why! Big country, a pile of public land, and more opportunity than just about anywhere else in the West—it’s one of the few states where you can still put a plan together and actually go hunt. This episode kicks off the Colorado series with mule deer, and we start with what makes it so good. From early high-country hunts to late-season rut hunts, Colorado gives you options—and that’s really the story here. We get into how the draw works, what the April 7 deadline means, and how to think about points without overcomplicating it. There’s also a look ahead at the 2028 changes and how that might shape decisions over the next couple years. And then we dive into the fun part—seasons, units, and where you might start looking depending on how many points you’ve got. If you’ve ever thought about hunting mule deer out West, Colorado is hard to ignore. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram. If you enjoyed this, leave a 5-star rating and share the show with a friend. Looking for more content from Drawn West? Check out our latestarticle!ColoradoElk Application Strategy   FREE Gear Checklist: https://www.getdrawnwest.com/gear Connect with Brian Krebshttps://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!Sponsorsand Discounts:GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4GOHUNTGear Shop – 10% off most items with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/e75Pm4uSave10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code DRAWNWEST https://maverickhunting.com/?ref=getdrawnwest0:00 Why Colorado Mule Deer2:00 Colorado Application Overview4:30 April 7 Deadline7:10 Preference Point System12:00 2028 Draw Changes18:30 Season Breakdown24:00 Early Season vs Rut Hunts30:00 Unit Options (0–5 Points)36:00 Mid-Level Units42:00 High Point Units47:00 Final Thoughts on Colorado

    31 min

  4. MAR 26

    How The Montana Big Game Draw Works

    Montana might be one of the most confusing application systems in the West—and if you don’t understand how it works, it’s really easy to waste money or burn points for no reason. This episode is a full breakdown of the Montana draw system, but more importantly, how to actually make decisions inside of it. We walk through the difference between preference points and bonus points, how the combo licenses work, and why Montana’s system forces you to think multiple years ahead instead of just applying on a whim. The biggest takeaway here isn’t just how the draw works—it’s how to decide when to apply, when to buy points, and when to sit out, depending on your situation. There are scenarios where having zero points is actually better than one, and others where a single decision can set you back years. If Montana’s ever felt confusing, this will simplify it—and help you avoid some expensive mistakes. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram. If you enjoyed this, leave a 5-star rating and share the show with a friend. Looking for more content from Drawn West? Check out our latestarticle!MontanaElk Application Strategy [2026]   FREE Gear Checklist: https://www.getdrawnwest.com/gear Connect with Brian Krebshttps://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest 00:00 – Why Montana Confuses Everyone 02:15 – Key Deadlines (April 1 + Point Periods) 04:20 – Combo Licenses Explained 07:45 – Limited Entry Permits Breakdown 11:20 – Bonus Points vs Preference Points 14:45 – Why 0 Points Can Beat 1 Point 18:10 – Elk Strategy (What You Should Do) 21:50 – Deer Strategy (What You Should Do) 25:30 – Group Applications Explained 28:00 – Final Strategy + Multi-Year Planning HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!Sponsorsand Discounts:GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4GOHUNTGear Shop – 10% off most items with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/e75Pm4uSave10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code DRAWNWEST https://maverickhunting.com/?ref=getdrawnwest

    29 min
  5. Montana Mule Deer Application Strategy 2026

    MAR 24

    Montana Mule Deer Application Strategy 2026

    Montana mule deer gets talked about like it’s an easy answer—but I don’t think it’s that simple. In this episode, I walk through Montana’s 2026 mule deer application strategy, what the tag really gets you, and what kind of hunt I think most non-residents should expect if they draw. We cover deadline, cost, draw odds, population trends, limited entry vs. general, and the regions I’d be looking at depending on whether you want an easier hunt, less pressure, or a better crack at quality. I also share some honest thoughts on where Montana still makes sense in a mule deer strategy—and where I think people can talk themselves into it for the wrong reasons. If you’re trying to figure out whether Montana deserves a spot in your application plan this year, this should help you make that call with a little more clarity. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram. If you enjoyed this, leave a 5-star rating and share the show with a friend. Looking for more content from Drawn West? Check out our latestarticle!2026Montana Elk Application Strategy FREE Gear Checklist: https://www.getdrawnwest.com/gear Connect with Brian Krebshttps://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!Sponsorsand Discounts:GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4GOHUNTGear Shop – 10% off most items with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/e75Pm4uSave10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code DRAWNWEST https://maverickhunting.com/?ref=getdrawnwest

    36 min
  6. Montana Elk Application Strategy 2026

    MAR 17

    Montana Elk Application Strategy 2026

    Montana elk is one of the best opportunities in the West — IF you can figure out the draw system. In this episode of the Drawn West Podcast, Brian breaks down everything you need to know about applying for Montana elk in the 2026 application season. Montana is one of the most popular elk states for non-resident hunters, but it also has one of the most complicated draw systems in the West. Brian walks through the April 1 application deadline, major 2026 rule changes, rising tag costs, and the new rule that Montana will purge preference points if you skip a year applying. He also explains how Montana’s two-tier system works — preference points for general tags and bonus points for limited entry permits — and why planning your strategy 2–3 years ahead matters. You’ll also hear a breakdown of Montana’s elk regions, population trends, drought conditions, and how to find a good general unit using harvest data, public land filters, and terrain analysis. Whether you’re applying for the first time or deciding how to use a stack of bonus points, this episode lays out a clear strategy for navigating one of the most confusing draws in Western hunting. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram. If you enjoyed this, leave a 5-star rating and share the show with a friend. Looking for more content from Drawn West? Check out our latestarticle!2026New Mexico Application Strategy   FREE Gear Checklist: https://www.getdrawnwest.com/gear Connect with Brian Krebshttps://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!Sponsorsand Discounts:GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4GOHUNTGear Shop – 10% off most items with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/e75Pm4uSave10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code DRAWNWEST https://maverickhunting.com/?ref=getdrawnwest0:00 – Intro 0:45 – Montana Elk Application Deadline 2:00 – New Preference Point Rule 4:15 – Rising Elk Tag Prices 6:30 – Grizzly Bears in Montana Units 8:50 – Chronic Wasting Disease Concerns 11:45 – How Montana’s Draw System Works 16:30 – General Tags vs Limited Entry 21:30 – Montana Elk Regions Explained 26:00 – Best General Units to Start With 30:20 – How to Find Hidden Gem Units 34:40 – Strategy Based on Your Points 39:30 – Final Montana Elk Application Advice

    44 min
  7. New Mexico Application Strategy

    MAR 11

    New Mexico Application Strategy

    In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of the Drawn West Podcast, Brian breaks down the full strategy for applying in New Mexico’s big game draw, one of the most unique systems in the West. Unlike most states, New Mexico has no point system, meaning every applicant has the same odds each year. Brian walks through how the three-choice draw system works, how to structure your hunt choices, and why New Mexico can be a great “swing for the fences” state—especially for elk hunters chasing giant bulls. He also explains the resident vs non-resident tag allocations, the cost structure for applications, and how the New Mexico deadline lines up with other states like Wyoming. Finally, Brian breaks down each major species—elk, mule deer, pronghorn, sheep, ibex, and oryx—and shares when it might make sense to apply and when it might not. If you’re building a western hunting application strategy, New Mexico might be the wildcard tag that changes your season. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram. If you enjoyed this, leave a 5-star rating and share the show with a friend. Looking for more content from Drawn West? Check out our latestarticle! HowTo Draw a Tag in the West   FREE Gear Checklist: https://www.getdrawnwest.com/gear Connect with Brian Krebs https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com! Sponsorsand Discounts: GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4 GOHUNT GearShop – 10% off most items with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u Save10% onMaverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code DRAWNWEST https://maverickhunting.com/?ref=getdrawnwest 0:00 – Intro & Maven Sponsor2:05 – New Mexico Application Deadlines3:20 – How the New Mexico Draw System Works5:00 – Using Your Three Hunt Choices Strategically7:00 – Non-Resident Tag Allocation Explained9:20 – Costs and Application Fees12:15 – Elk Strategy & Trophy Units17:30 – Mule Deer Opportunities in New Mexico21:15 – Pronghorn Draw Odds and Access Challenges24:50 – Sheep, Ibex, and Exotic Species28:30 – Is New Mexico Worth Adding to Your Strategy?

    32 min
  8. When To Change Units

    MAR 10

    When To Change Units

    In this episode of the Drawn West Podcast, Brian Krebs breaks down one of the most common dilemmas Western hunters face: when should you keep hunting the same unit—and when should you move on and try somewhere new? After a recent ice-fishing trip to Devils Lake, Brian reflects on a conversation with friends about choosing between several Montana elk units. From thick black-timber grizzly country to open terrain better suited for spot-and-stalk, each unit has strengths and weaknesses. Brian walks through the exact criteria his group uses to evaluate hunts over time. He explains why elk encounters, terrain, travel distance, hunting style compatibility, and public access all matter when deciding whether a unit deserves another chance. He also shares real examples from hunts in Montana, Colorado, Wyoming, and antelope country—highlighting both successes and lessons learned. If you’re building a long-term Western hunting strategy or trying to find your own “cornerstone” unit, this episode will help you evaluate hunts more objectively and make smarter decisions year after year. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram. If you enjoyed this, leave a 5-star rating and share the show with a friend. Looking for more content from Drawn West? Check out our latestarticle! How to GoElk Hunting for $1500   FREE Gear Checklist: https://www.getdrawnwest.com/gear Connect with Brian Krebs https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com! Sponsorsand Discounts: GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4 GOHUNTGear Shop – 10% off most items with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u Save10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code DRAWNWEST https://maverickhunting.com/?ref=getdrawnwest

    40 min
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About

Drawn West is for the hunters who load the truck each fall — chasing bugles, big country, and something deeper than just filling a tag. Host Brian Krebs dives into tag strategies, gear prep, and real-world advice to help non-resident hunters make the most of limited time out West. Each episode features expert guests and gritty stories from hunters you’ve never heard of — the kind who get it done with one week, one tag, and no excuses.

Information

  • Creator
    Drawn West with Brian Krebs
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    55
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Drawn West with Brian Krebs
  • Show Website
    Drawn West

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