A Hunter’s Guide to Idaho Fish and Game

Idaho is a sportsman's paradise, not just because of its natural beauty, but because its wilderness is teeming with game. With a unique combination of high-desert plains, dense forests, and alpine peaks, Idaho’s diverse landscape offers a variety of opportunities for hunting and fishing. 



Whether you're a seasoned hunter, an expert angler, or a novice to outdoor sport, Idaho has a lot to offer. But before you load your rifle or string your pole, here are some things you need to know about hunting and fishing in Idaho.

How Do Units Work?

Units are determined by distinct geographical areas. Hunting tags are assigned to each unit, which lock hunters into a specific area to hunt. Some specialty tags, like elk tags, are sold by zones, which may group several units together. Your choice of unit will have a huge impact on your experience, so it’s important to do your research before planning your hunting trip.

Special Note: Non-residents are subject to caps and percentage limits on their units.

What Units Can Impact:

• Season dates
• Available tags
• Legal weapons
• Harvest limits
• Controlled-hunt opportunities 

Big-Game Hunting

When you hear the word “hunting,” most people think of big game. Idaho has a wide range of big game animals, but deer and elk are the most popular targets. 

Things to know:

• Season dates: Idaho doesn’t have a single statewide rifle season, so dates vary by unit. However, September - November is when most traditional firearm hunting is underway.
• Deer and elk: Deer and elk can be hunted with archery or muzzleloader during most big-game seasons. Other weapon types may be allowed in different units depending on regulations.
• Other big game: Pronghorn, black bear, mountain lion, wolf, moose, mountain goat, and bighorn sheep have their own seasons and regulations.
• Some hunts are controlled: Certain big-game opportunities require hunters to apply for and draw a controlled-hunt tag.
  

Archery and Muzzleloader Seasons

For hunters who prefer less traditional firearms, archery and muzzleloader seasons give Idaho hunters additional ways to pursue big game. 

Things to know:

• Archery season: Archery season provides some of the earliest big-game hunting opportunities of the year, often beginning in late summer depending on species and unit.
• Muzzleloader season: Offers a more traditional hunting experience and can extend opportunities into the later fall months (again, depending on species and unit).
• Equipment matters: Both types of hunts have specific rules about legal equipment and methods.
  

Upland Birds and Turkey

If you’re not a fan of venison, wild turkey and waterfowl offer great sport. Just like with big game, seasons vary based on species, allowing for great hunting throughout much of the year.

Things to know:

• Upland birds: Hunters can pursue chukar, gray partridge, pheasant, quail, grouse, and other game birds.
• Turkey: Spring and fall turkey seasons are available in designated areas.
• Waterfowl: Ducks, geese, and other migratory birds can be hunted during fall and winter seasons.
• Bag limits and regulations: Some birds have special regulations such as bag limits, so check the current Idaho Fish and Game regulations before heading out.
  

Hunting Licenses and Tags

• Hunters are required to complete hunter education before purchasing a license, tag, or permit.
• Hunters need to have a valid hunting license and (depending on species and/or weapon) corresponding tag or permit.
• Nonresident general-season deer and elk tags are issued through an application and draw process.
• Controlled hunts have limited tags and are awarded through a lottery system.
• Hunters must stick to their assigned hunting unit or zone.
• Rules and regulations that apply to one species or unit may not apply elsewhere. Check the current regulations for your unit and season before your hunt.
• Respect private property and restricted areas. Confirm your permissions before the hunt begins.
  

Fishing Licenses



There are several types of fishing licenses available, including daily, annual, and multi-year options. Anglers can purchase licenses online, from license vendors, or at Idaho Fish and Game offices.

Things to know:

• Anglers 14 and older need a valid fishing license.
• Resident and nonresident licenses have different fees.
• Daily licenses are available for visitors who are only fishing for a short time.
• A special salmon and steelhead permit is required to fish for or keep these species.
• A two-pole permit is required if you want to fish with two poles.

Regulations

Fishing rules in Idaho can vary from one body of water to another. Rules can cover everything from fishing methods and bait to bag limits, size restrictions, and catch-and-release requirements. 



Things to know:

• Research the rules and regulations for your particular fishing spot.
• Some waters have catch-and-release rules.
• Pay attention to daily bag and possession limits.
• Salmon and steelhead have additional regulations and permits.