no permit needed, i believe you cannot collect stuff in national parks is the only restriction... someone else on here would know that for sure. All the animals have already shed though and a lot of people have already been out hitting it hard. Not to say there isn't sheds out there, but it is pretty random where the sheds are laying. look for frequent bedding areas and heavily used game trails. Best thing to do is put a lot of miles on the boots. good luck.