This was previously more difficult because authority over the hunt rested not with the Department, but in the Legislature. The changes that were made since, and those likely to come, will no doubt stir more debate. Without question, the number-one complaint from sportsmen about the moose hunt is the probability of being selected for a permit. The Department has taken several steps to alleviate some of the discontent, e.g., issuing more permits. They have also added multiple choice options and a bonus point program.
Applicants can increase their odds of being selected by purchasing additional chances.
However, the increase is slight, and critics have complained that it is just an attempt to get more hunters' dollars. Under the bonus point system, unsuccessful applicants, or those who were eligible for an antlerless moose permit but declined, received one bonus point for each consecutive year they applied, beginning with the 1998 drawing. Folks seemed pretty receptive to that idea, until this year. Beginning with the 2001 drawing, if an antlerless permit is awarded and declined, the bonus points are forfeited. This had the critics outraged, and with good reason.