Blog / Idaho hunting seasons

By Connor Thomas
Monday, March 27, 2023

 
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Nestled amidst the rugged terrain and expansive wilderness of the Western United States, the magnificent state of Idaho offers a plethora of breathtaking hunting opportunities. From the seasoned and experienced hunters to the newbies, Idaho caters to everyone's hunting aspirations with its diverse range of game species and unmatched hunting experiences. Join us in this fascinating article where we embark on an exhilarating journey to explore the intricacies of Idaho's hunting seasons and unravel the mysteries of the hunting world.


Idaho Hunting Seasons: An Overview


The complexity of Idaho's hunting seasons is undoubtedly overwhelming, classified into various categories that include big game, small game, upland game birds, and waterfowl. It is time to delve deep into the depths of each of these categories.


Big Game Seasons


Are you ready to tread on the path less taken, the one that leads to the thrill of big game hunting in Idaho? It's not a simple journey, as big game hunting in Idaho is highly regulated, with each species being allotted a limited number of tags. Elk, deer, pronghorn, moose, mountain goat, bighorn sheep, and black bear are the big game species that await you.


The elk hunting season in Idaho is an experience like no other, stretching from late August to early January, with varying specific dates depending on the hunting zone. As for deer season, it usually commences in late August and extends till mid-December, while pronghorn season is usually a relatively shorter one, starting from early August to early November.


Moose and mountain goat seasons are a rarity, with only a limited number of tags available through a lottery system. Furthermore, bighorn sheep hunting is the epitome of exclusivity, with only a handful of tags issued each year.


Small Game Seasons


Are you someone who likes to keep things subtle and enjoy a relaxing hunting experience? If so, small game hunting in Idaho is the perfect choice for you. Idaho's small game hunting seasons consist of a variety of species, including rabbits, squirrels, and upland game birds. The season typically takes place in the fall and winter months, and the specific dates vary depending on the species and hunting zone.


Upland Game Bird Seasons


The sky's the limit when it comes to the realm of upland game bird hunting in Idaho. The state is a popular destination for upland game bird hunting, with species such as chukar partridge, gray partridge, California quail, mountain quail, and Hungarian partridge. Upland game bird hunting season usually runs from early September to late January, with the specific dates varying by species and hunting zone.


Waterfowl Seasons


If you are in the mood to explore Idaho's wetlands and marshes, waterfowl hunting should be your go-to choice. Idaho is a popular destination for waterfowl hunting, with species such as ducks, geese, and coots. Waterfowl hunting season typically runs from early October to late January, with the specific dates varying by species and hunting zone.


Hunting Regulations in Idaho


It's important to note that Idaho's hunting seasons and regulations are subject to change. Therefore, it's always wise to check with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game before planning your hunting trip. It's also crucial to be familiar with the state's hunting regulations, including bag limits, tagging requirements, and other rules and restrictions.


Planning Your Idaho Hunting Trip with Find A Hunt


At Find A Hunt, we make planning your Idaho hunting trip a breeze. Our website provides a platform to search for hunting guides and outfitters in Idaho and other states, making it easy to find the right guide for your needs and budget. Additionally, we provide helpful resources such as hunting tips and gear reviews to help you prepare for your hunting adventure.