Open season is just a few weeks away for most of the US. It's an exciting time of year for veteran hunters and beginners alike.
But before heading out on your first hunt, make sure you're familiar with Idaho hunting laws and regulations.
Most seasoned hunters may be well aware that hunting laws evolve on an almost yearly basis. The governments’ main objective is to address public safety for the benefit of the hunter and the hunted.
Idaho Hunting Laws and Regulations
It's a must to keep up to date on Idaho hunting laws and regulations before heading out on your first hunt. Studying your state's hunting laws might be a bit time consuming, and we know you're impatient to get out there and start shooting. But breaking the law and having to pay a fine can put a serious damper on a hunting season.
Keep reading to learn about Idaho hunting laws including dates, which animals you’re allowed to hunt, which weapon you're allowed to use, how to get a hunting license, and much more.
1. Deer Hunting in Idaho
General Deer Season: October 10 – December 1
For more specific details on dates per unit, deer characteristics and more please click here.
For controlled deer hunt seasons, start hunting here.
Weapon Restrictions
It is unlawful to pursue or kill:
Rifle or Shotgun: with any fully automatic firearm or shotgun using shot smaller than #00 buck
For other weapon restrictions such as short range weapons, muzzleloaders, archery and more, start reading on page 98 for General Wildlife Laws.
Licenses, Tags and Permits
Applicants buying a license by telephone will be given a confirmation number that may be used in place of the actual license for 14 days from the date of issue.
For other options on how to acquire a hunting license, tag or permit and fees, click here.
2. Duck Hunting in Idaho
AREA 1:
- Statewide Duck: October 1, 2016 – January 13, 2017.
- Scaup Season: October 22, 2016 – January 13, 2017.
For the dates for Area 2 and on daily bag as well as possession limit details, click here .
Methods of Take
A shotgun capable of carrying no more than 3 shells.
Learn more about what is against the law in taking migratory game birds, hunt it out in page 21 for Season Rules for Migratory Game Birds.
License and Permits
You can visit an Idaho Fish and Game office or a license vendor in order to buy a hunting a license.
Learn more how to buy a license, Tag or Permit by clicking here.
3. Gray Wolf Hunting in Idaho
Hunting: August 30 – March 31
Trapping: November 15 – March 31
For more details on specific hunting season dates per GMU, precautionary measures and more, click here.
Methods of Take
Hunting:
It is unlawful to pursue or kill with:
- Any bow having a peak draw weight of less than 40 pounds up or at a draw of 28 inches.
- Any crossbow having a peak draw weight of less than 150 pounds.
Trapping:
- Snare Cables: 1×19, 7/64”
- Diverters: 11 gauge wire or heavier
For more details on weapon restrictions, big game rules and regulations, start hunting on page 98 for General Wildlife Laws.
For trapping details, click here.
License, Tags and Permits
Archery Permit:
- All bowhunters must have a valid hunting license with them at all times during archery season.
- They must complete and show evidence of an approved bowhunter education course.
- They must show proof of having been licensed for an archery-only hunt in Idaho or another state.
For other season rules and big game fees, click here.
As long as you are knowledgeable with the hunting laws in the state of Idaho and abide by them to the letter, you and your hunting buddies will surely enjoy every minute of hunting.
Hunt safe and hunt proud!
