Idaho Hunting Seasons: A Guide to When and Where to Find Your Next Trophy

Idaho is a state with a rich hunting heritage. With its diverse terrain and abundant wildlife, the state offers something for every hunter. Whether you’re looking for big game, upland birds, or waterfowl, you’re sure to find it in Idaho.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the different hunting seasons in Idaho. We’ll cover everything from when each season opens and closes to what species you can hunt. We’ll also provide some tips on how to get started hunting in Idaho. So whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just getting started, read on for all the information you need to know about hunting in Idaho.

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Game Season Dates
Deer Archery September 1 – December 31
Deer Muzzleloader December 1 – December 31
Deer Rifle January 1 – January 31
Elk Archery September 1 – December 31
Elk Rifle November 15 – December 31
Antelope Archery September 1 – December 31
Antelope Rifle October 1 – December 31

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Idaho is a state with a rich hunting tradition. The state is home to a variety of big game animals, upland game birds, waterfowl, small game animals, and furbearers. The state also offers a variety of fishing opportunities.

The hunting seasons in Idaho vary depending on the species and the region of the state. The following sections provide a general overview of the hunting seasons in Idaho. For more specific information, please consult the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website.

General Hunting Seasons in Idaho

Big game seasons

The big game hunting seasons in Idaho typically run from September to December. The most popular big game animals in Idaho include elk, deer, moose, and pronghorn. The hunting seasons for these animals vary depending on the region of the state.

Upland game seasons

The upland game hunting seasons in Idaho typically run from September to January. The most popular upland game birds in Idaho include pheasant, quail, grouse, and dove. The hunting seasons for these birds vary depending on the region of the state.

Waterfowl seasons

The waterfowl hunting seasons in Idaho typically run from September to March. The most popular waterfowl in Idaho include ducks, geese, and swans. The hunting seasons for these birds vary depending on the region of the state.

Small game seasons

The small game hunting seasons in Idaho typically run from September to March. The most popular small game animals in Idaho include rabbits, squirrels, and coyotes. The hunting seasons for these animals vary depending on the region of the state.

Furbearer seasons

The furbearer hunting seasons in Idaho typically run from October to March. The most popular furbearers in Idaho include beaver, fox, coyote, and bobcat. The hunting seasons for these animals vary depending on the region of the state.

Fishing seasons

The fishing seasons in Idaho vary depending on the species and the region of the state. The most popular fish in Idaho include trout, bass, salmon, and steelhead. The fishing seasons for these fish vary depending on the region of the state.

Specific Hunting Seasons by Region

The hunting seasons in Idaho vary depending on the region of the state. The following sections provide a more specific overview of the hunting seasons in each region of Idaho.

Northern Idaho

The hunting seasons in northern Idaho are generally longer than the hunting seasons in other regions of the state. The big game hunting seasons in northern Idaho typically run from September to December. The upland game hunting seasons in northern Idaho typically run from September to January. The waterfowl hunting seasons in northern Idaho typically run from September to March. The small game hunting seasons in northern Idaho typically run from September to March. The furbearer hunting seasons in northern Idaho typically run from October to March. The fishing seasons in northern Idaho vary depending on the species and the region of the state.

Central Idaho

The hunting seasons in central Idaho are similar to the hunting seasons in northern Idaho. The big game hunting seasons in central Idaho typically run from September to December. The upland game hunting seasons in central Idaho typically run from September to January. The waterfowl hunting seasons in central Idaho typically run from September to March. The small game hunting seasons in central Idaho typically run from September to March. The furbearer hunting seasons in central Idaho typically run from October to March. The fishing seasons in central Idaho vary depending on the species and the region of the state.

Southern Idaho

The hunting seasons in southern Idaho are shorter than the hunting seasons in other regions of the state. The big game hunting seasons in southern Idaho typically run from September to November. The upland game hunting seasons in southern Idaho typically run from September to January. The waterfowl hunting seasons in southern Idaho typically run from September to March. The small game hunting seasons in southern Idaho typically run from September to March. The furbearer hunting seasons in southern Idaho typically run from October to March. The fishing seasons in southern Idaho vary depending on the species and the region of the state.

Eastern Idaho

The hunting seasons in eastern Idaho are similar to the hunting seasons in northern Idaho. The big game hunting seasons in eastern Idaho typically run from September to December. The upland game hunting seasons in eastern Idaho typically run from September to January. The waterfowl hunting seasons in eastern Idaho typically run from September to March. The small game hunting seasons in eastern Idaho typically run from September to March. The furbearer hunting seasons in eastern Idaho typically run from October to March. The fishing seasons in eastern Idaho vary depending on the species and the region of the state.

Western Idaho

The hunting seasons in western Idaho are similar to the hunting seasons in central Idaho. The big game hunting seasons in western Idaho typically run from September to December. The upland game hunting seasons in western Idaho typically run from September to January. The waterfowl hunting

3. Hunting Regulations and Permits

  • License requirements

All hunters in Idaho must have a valid hunting license. Licenses are available online, at Idaho Fish and Game offices, and from some sporting goods stores. The cost of a license varies depending on the type of license and the age of the hunter.

  • Bag limits

Each hunter is allowed to take a certain number of animals of each species during each hunting season. Bag limits are designed to protect wildlife populations and ensure that there is enough game for future generations of hunters.

  • Hunting methods

There are a variety of hunting methods allowed in Idaho, including:

  • Archery hunting
  • Black powder hunting
  • Crossbow hunting
  • Firearm hunting
  • Muzzleloader hunting
  • Trapping

The specific hunting methods allowed for each species vary depending on the season and the area.

  • Wildlife management areas

Idaho has a number of wildlife management areas (WMAs) that are open to hunting. WMAs are managed by Idaho Fish and Game to provide hunting opportunities for a variety of species.

  • Public hunting lands

There are also a number of public hunting lands in Idaho that are open to hunting. These lands are managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the U.S. Forest Service, and the National Park Service.

4. Hunting Tips and Advice

  • Scouting for game

The first step to a successful hunt is scouting for game. This means finding out where the animals are likely to be located and what they are feeding on. You can do this by talking to other hunters, looking at maps, and observing the area yourself.

  • Choosing the right equipment

The type of equipment you need for hunting will vary depending on the species you are hunting and the method you are using. However, some basic pieces of equipment that all hunters should have include:

  • A rifle or shotgun
  • A scope
  • A hunting knife
  • A flashlight
  • A first aid kit
  • Preparing for your hunt

Before you go hunting, it is important to make sure you are prepared. This means having the right equipment, being in good physical shape, and knowing the hunting regulations. You should also make a plan for your hunt and let someone know where you will be.

  • Handling game after harvest

Once you have harvested an animal, it is important to handle it properly. This means cleaning the carcass, dressing the meat, and storing it properly. You should also dispose of the entrails and bones in a way that is safe for the environment.

Hunting is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. However, it is important to be aware of the hunting regulations and to practice safe hunting techniques. By following these tips, you can have a successful and enjoyable hunting experience.

What are the hunting seasons in Idaho?

The hunting seasons in Idaho vary depending on the species of animal you are hunting. The following is a general overview of the hunting seasons in Idaho for some of the most popular game animals:

  • Deer: The general deer hunting season in Idaho runs from September 15 to December 31. However, there are also specific seasons for hunting antlerless deer, blacktail deer, and mule deer.
  • Elk: The general elk hunting season in Idaho runs from September 1 to December 31. However, there are also specific seasons for hunting bull elk and cow elk.
  • Bear: The general bear hunting season in Idaho runs from August 1 to May 31. However, there are also specific seasons for hunting black bears and grizzly bears.
  • Moose: The general moose hunting season in Idaho runs from September 1 to December 31. However, there are also specific seasons for hunting bull moose and cow moose.
  • Antelope: The general antelope hunting season in Idaho runs from September 1 to December 31. However, there are also specific seasons for hunting pronghorn antelope.

For more specific information on the hunting seasons in Idaho, please visit the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website.

How do I get a hunting license in Idaho?

To get a hunting license in Idaho, you must be at least 18 years old and a resident of Idaho or a nonresident who has purchased a nonresident hunting license. You can purchase a hunting license online, by mail, or at any Idaho Department of Fish and Game office.

The cost of a hunting license varies depending on the type of license you purchase and your residency status. For more information on the cost of hunting licenses in Idaho, please visit the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website.

What do I need to know about hunting in Idaho?

Before you go hunting in Idaho, there are a few things you need to know. First, you must have a valid hunting license. Second, you must be familiar with the hunting regulations in Idaho. Third, you must be aware of the safety precautions that are necessary when hunting.

For more information on hunting in Idaho, please visit the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website.

What are some tips for hunting in Idaho?

Here are a few tips for hunting in Idaho:

  • Scout the area before you hunt. This will help you identify the best places to hunt and the types of animals that are present.
  • Be patient. Hunting can be a waiting game. It takes time to find animals and get a shot.
  • Be safe. Always wear a hunter orange vest or hat when you are hunting. This will help other hunters see you and avoid accidents.
  • Respect the environment. Leave no trace when you are hunting. Pack out your trash and properly dispose of your game.

For more information on hunting in Idaho, please visit the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website.

Idaho is home to a wide variety of hunting opportunities, with seasons for big game, small game, and waterfowl. Hunters should be aware of the specific regulations for each species and area they plan to hunt. By following these guidelines, hunters can enjoy a safe and successful hunting season in Idaho.

Here are some key takeaways:

  • Idaho has a variety of hunting seasons, with something for everyone.
  • Hunters should be aware of the specific regulations for each species and area they plan to hunt.
  • By following these guidelines, hunters can enjoy a safe and successful hunting season in Idaho.

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