Posted: Tuesday, May 06, 2025
Author: Mike Gatlin, Farm, Ranch, and Luxury Homes | Licensed in ID
"Miles for piles." It's a saying every shed hunter knows, and for good reason. We walk miles, sometimes tens of miles, over rugged terrain just for the chance to find that one single antler, and in full transparency, a handful is more realistic of a goal than an actual pile these days. For me, it's more than just a hobby; it's been an obsession for over 25 years. Every spring, I lace up my boots and set out to find antlers, hiking along every sun-soaked south-facing slope I can find.
How Did We Get Here
Shed hunting has exploded in popularity, and with that growth comes fierce competition. These days, people are combing through prime areas as soon as the season opens or even as the antlers are still hitting the ground, leaving little behind for others to find. Social media has played a massive role in fueling this surge, with antler hauls, scenic backcountry shots, and gear rundowns turning shed hunting into a mainstream outdoor pursuit.
The rise of YouTube and social media has added a new dimension to shed hunting—one that didn't exist even a decade ago. What started as a way to share stories and celebrate finds has, in some ways, morphed into a numbers game. Entire online identities now revolve around how many browns a person picks up each spring. For some, it's become less about the experience and more about the proof, a tailgate stacked with sheds, a GoPro catch of the exact moment a tine catches the light. Platforms that once built community now fuel comparison, and the pressure to perform has changed the energy on the mountain.
That said, I'm not one to point fingers at content creators or influencers. I enjoy their videos myself. I think it's a positive thing to see folks promoting time spent on our public lands, especially when that content inspires people to explore and connect with the outdoors beyond just the fall hunting seasons. Our shared access to wild places is one of this country's greatest assets, and if shed hunting content helps more people appreciate that, I'm all for it.
I don't know the right answer when it comes to how we should be sharing shed hunting online. The genie's out of the bottle, and we can't put it back in. What we can do is shift the conversation toward sustainability. The focus now needs to be on how we preserve this resource, respect the animals, and keep the experience meaningful for generations to come.
At the same time, the financial incentive has grown. Antlers have become a recognized commodity, used in everything from home décor and dog chews to traditional medicine and high-end craftwork. As of April 2025, brown elk antlers are averaging around $13 per pound, while brown deer antlers and moose paddles are holding steady at approximately $10 per pound. White elk antlers are typically valued at $8 per pound. Higher-quality craft-grade moose antlers remain in demand and can still command up to $13 per pound, depending on condition and size.
With increased participation and antler values on the rise historically, it's no surprise that states have stepped in to regulate the activity. What was once a quiet pastime has become a highly competitive endeavor, bringing with it a wave of new laws, fines, and compliance requirements. States are cracking down on illegal collection, wildlife disturbance, and unethical practices. Whether you're an experienced shed hunter or just getting started, it's essential to understand the rules before hitting the hills.
In this guide, I'll break down everything you need to know to stay compliant while pursuing your next antler haul. We'll cover the most important regulations in the Rocky Mountain states and discuss how staying informed can keep you on the right side of the law.
Shed Antler Hunting Laws and Regulations (2025)
To make sense of the varied and sometimes confusing rules, I've compiled the most up-to-date regulations from each state in the Rocky Mountain region. Use this guide to ensure you're in compliance before heading out.
Why Are These Regulations Necessary?
The rise in shed hunting has placed immense pressure on wintering wildlife. After a harsh winter, elk, deer, and moose are exhausted and vulnerable. Disturbing them during this critical period can mean life or death, particularly for pregnant cows or weak bulls recovering from the rut. To mitigate the impact of human activity, states have adopted strict regulations to preserve both wildlife and habitat integrity.
Tips for Staying Compliant and Responsible
Final Thoughts
Shed hunting remains one of the most rewarding ways to connect with nature and the land. But with increased popularity comes increased responsibility. By staying informed and compliant, we can ensure this great tradition continues without damaging the wildlife we cherish. Happy hunting, and may your next pile be the best one yet.
