I’d consider pushing your hunt back to a year with more normal rainfall. Depending on where you’re hunting, antler growth could be significantly down because of the drought. I’d be looking for CWMU tags through outfitters. Otherwise, you can wait many many years for a limited entry tag. Deer tags are now capped, so I don’t believe you’ll find an over the counter tag.
I have nothing but good to say about Tom Land of Wild Country Outfitters. I’ve hunted their biggest property 15+ times (primarily archery deer). They have strict management practices that focus on only taking deer that are 51/2 or older. They have some great genetics (if memory serves, they killed a 193” 3yr old years ago before age restrictions were implemented). Very high quality, great guides and accommodations. You get what you pay for, and there is frequently a waiting list.
