Idaho Big Game & Upland Hunting: Dates, Tags & Zone Maps for 2025
Welcome to your complete guide for planning an unforgettable outdoor adventure in the Gem State! Whether you’re a seasoned local hunter or visiting from out of state, this comprehensive breakdown covers everything you need to know about Idaho’s 2025-2026 game calendar. From prime big game opportunities to waterfowl seasons, we’ve got you covered with dates, permits, weapon restrictions, and essential zone information to make your next expedition a success.
Idaho offers some of the nation’s most diverse wildlife opportunities, spanning vast wilderness areas, productive agricultural regions, and pristine mountain terrain. Before heading out, make sure you’re equipped with the right permits and understand the specific regulations for your target species and preferred hunting methods.
📅 Quick Snapshot
Here’s your at-a-glance summary of major species and key dates for the upcoming season:
Big Game Highlights:
- Deer (Mule & White-tailed) 🦌: August 30 – February 2026
- Elk 🫎: August 30 – December 19 (general seasons)
- Black Bear 🐻: August 30 – October 31 (fall); April – June 2026 (spring)
- Mountain Lion 🦁: July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026
- Pronghorn 🦌: Controlled hunts only, August – October
Application Deadlines:
- Big Game Controlled Hunts: May 1 – June 5, 2025
- Spring Bear Applications: January 15 – February 15, 2026
Youth Opportunities: Special seasons available for hunters aged 10-17 across multiple species with extended dates and additional flexibility.
Legal Methods: Archery, modern firearms, muzzleloader, and short-range weapons (specific restrictions apply by season and unit).
Big Game Overview
Deer Seasons
| Season Type | Dates | Weapon Types | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Archery | Aug 30 – Sep 30 | Archery only | Statewide opportunity |
| General Rifle | Oct 10 – Oct 31 | Any weapon | Most popular season |
| Muzzleloader | Nov 10 – Nov 14 | Muzzleloader only | Select units |
| Controlled Hunts | Aug 30 – Dec 31 | Varies by hunt | Application required |
Bag Limits: One deer per legal tag. Second tags available at nonresident pricing for certain units.
Elk Seasons
Idaho’s elk program operates through 28 management zones, each with specific dates and weapon restrictions:
| Zone Type | General Dates | Tag Types | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| A Tags (Any Weapon) | Aug 30 – Nov 15 | General season | Over-the-counter |
| B Tags (Restricted) | Sep 15 – Dec 19 | Limited areas | Draw required for some |
| Archery Only | Aug 30 – Sep 30 | Archery permit needed | Various zones |
| Controlled Hunts | Oct 1 – Feb 28 | Premium units | May 1 – June 5 deadline |
Important: Colorado hunters should note that Idaho’s elk zones operate differently than other western states, with specific A and B tag designations determining legal hunting areas.
Black Bear Seasons
| Season | Dates | Methods | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall General | Aug 30 – Oct 31 | Any weapon | Online bear ID test required |
| Spring General | Apr 1 – May 31, 2026 | Any weapon | Unit-specific dates vary |
| Spring Controlled | Apr 15 – June 30, 2026 | Draw hunts | Application Jan 15 – Feb 15 |
Bear Baiting: Permitted in designated areas with proper permits and compliance with baiting regulations.
Turkey Dates
Turkey seasons in Idaho are managed separately from big game and include both spring and fall opportunities:
| Season | Dates | Bag Limits | Weapon Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Youth Spring | Apr 8 – May 25 | Male or bearded birds | Shotgun, archery, crossbow |
| General Spring | Apr 15 – May 25 | Male or bearded birds | Shotgun, archery, crossbow |
| Fall Seasons | Aug 30 – Jan 31, 2026 | Either sex in most units | Any legal weapon |
Note: Specific unit regulations and dates vary. Check the separate upland game brochure for complete turkey regulations at idfg.idaho.gov/rules.
Furbearer Opportunities
Idaho provides excellent trapping and predator control opportunities:
| Species | Season | Method | License Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coyote | Year-round | Hunting/trapping | Hunting or trapping license |
| Bobcat | Dec 1 – Mar 31 | Trapping primarily | Trapping license + tag |
| Raccoon | Year-round | Hunting/trapping | Basic license |
| Red Fox | Nov 1 – Mar 31 | Hunting/trapping | Hunting or trapping license |
Gray Wolf: Special regulations apply with year-round opportunities in most areas (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026). Trapping requires wolf trapper education certification.
Small Game Section
Small game provides excellent opportunities for new hunters and family outings:
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cottontail Rabbit | Sep 1 – Mar 31 | 10 | 30 |
| Snowshoe Hare | Sep 1 – Mar 31 | 5 | 15 |
| Squirrel (Tree) | Sep 1 – Jan 31 | 4 | 12 |
| Forest Grouse | Aug 30 – Jan 31 | 3 | 9 |
| Sage Grouse | Sep 15 – Oct 15 | 2 | 6 |
Youth hunters often enjoy additional opportunities and extended seasons for small game species.
Complete Waterfowl Seasons
Waterfowl regulations follow federal frameworks with state-specific dates:
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ducks (Regular) | Oct 5 – Dec 22 | 6 (species specific) | Federal duck stamp, HIP |
| Geese (Canada) | Oct 5 – Dec 22 | 2 | Federal duck stamp, HIP |
| Teal (Early) | Sep 7 – Sep 22 | 6 | Federal duck stamp, HIP |
| Coots | Oct 5 – Dec 22 | 15 | Basic hunting license |
Zone Variations: Northern and southern Idaho may have different dates. Steel shot required in all waterfowl zones.
Note: Complete waterfowl regulations are published separately. Visit idfg.idaho.gov/rules for the official migratory bird brochure.
Other Available Game
Idaho offers diverse hunting beyond the major species:
| Species | Season | Bag Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | Sep 1 – Oct 30 | 15 daily | HIP certification required |
| Crow | Jul 1 – Apr 30 | No limit | Agricultural protection |
| Sandhill Crane | Sep 21 – Nov 3 | 2 daily | Special permit required |
| Bullfrog | Jul 1 – Oct 31 | No limit | License required |
Hunting Zones
Idaho divides its hunting areas into numbered game management units and larger elk management zones:
Zone System:
- Game Management Units: Individual numbered areas (Units 1-99) with specific boundaries
- Elk Management Zones: Larger areas combining multiple units for elk management
- Special Hunting Areas: Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) with specific rules
Essential Map Resources:
- Official Idaho Game Unit Map: Available at idfg.idaho.gov
- Hunt Planner Tool: Interactive mapping at idfg.idaho.gov/ifwis/huntPlanner/
- Public Land Access: Check Access Yes! program details
Public vs Private Land: Always verify land ownership before starting. Idaho has extensive public land access, but scattered private inholdings require permission.
Permits, Tags & Licenses Details
Resident Fees (2025)
| License/Tag Type | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Hunting License | $12.75 | Required for all hunting |
| Deer Tag | $30.75 | Regular or white-tailed |
| Elk Tag | $38.75 | A or B designation |
| Bear Tag | $16.75 | Spring and fall seasons |
| Mountain Lion Tag | $16.75 | Year-round opportunities |
| Pronghorn Tag | $30.75 | Controlled hunts only |
Nonresident Fees (2025)
| License/Tag Type | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Hunting License | $195.00 | Base requirement |
| Deer Tag | $301.75 | Includes bear/lion combo |
| Elk Tag | $651.75 | Premium pricing |
| Bear Tag | $301.75 | Often combined with deer |
| Archery Permit | $81.75 | For archery-only seasons |
Special Categories:
- Youth (10-17): Significantly reduced fees
- Disabled Veterans: Special DAV licenses available
- Military Active Duty: Reduced rate options
- Senior Citizens: Lifetime license options
Important: Starting in 2026, nonresident general season deer and elk tags will require applications and be allocated through a draw system rather than over-the-counter sales.
Similar to Alaska and other western states, Idaho is moving toward more controlled distribution of nonresident opportunities to manage hunting pressure and wildlife populations.
Idaho Hunting Quick FAQ
Q: When do I need to apply for controlled hunts?
A: Big game controlled hunt applications are due May 1-June 5, 2025, with results announced in early July. Spring bear applications are due January 15-February 15, 2026.
Q: Can I buy tags over the counter as a nonresident?
A: For 2025, yes, but starting in 2026, nonresident general deer and elk tags will require applications and draw allocation.
Q: What’s required for archery-only seasons?
A: You need a hunting license, appropriate species tag, and an archery permit. Equipment must meet minimum draw weight and arrow specifications.
Q: Are there special youth opportunities?
A: Yes! Youth hunters (ages 10-17) have access to special seasons, reduced fees, and mentored hunting opportunities with extended dates.
Q: What about hunter education requirements?
A: Hunter education certification is required for all hunters born after January 1, 1975. Online and in-person courses are available.
Q: Do I need hunter orange in Idaho?
A: Hunter orange is not legally required but is strongly recommended for safety, especially during firearms seasons.
Q: What’s the deal with CWD testing?
A: Chronic Wasting Disease testing is required in certain units (1, 14, 18, 23, 24, 32A). Transport restrictions apply for harvested deer and elk from these areas.
Required Resources and Links
Official Idaho Fish and Game Resources:
- Main Regulations Page: idfg.idaho.gov/rules
- Hunt Planner Tool: idfg.idaho.gov/ifwis/huntPlanner/
- License Purchase: idfg.idaho.gov/buy-online
- Hunter Education: idfg.idaho.gov/hunt/education
Important Contacts:
- Fish and Game Offices
- Violation Reporting: 1-800-632-5999
- General Information: (208) 334-3700
Additional Planning Resources:
Conclusion
Idaho’s 2025-2026 game calendar offers incredible diversity for sportsmen and women seeking memorable outdoor experiences. From the early archery seasons starting in late August through winter opportunities extending into February, there’s something for every skill level and interest.
The key to a successful hunt lies in thorough preparation. Make sure you understand the specific regulations for your chosen species and hunting area, secure the proper licenses and tags well in advance, and familiarize yourself with unit boundaries and access points. Controlled hunt applications fill up quickly, so mark those May deadlines on your calendar if you’re targeting premium units.
Remember that regulations can change, and it’s always wise to double-check current information on the Idaho Fish and Game website before heading out. Weather conditions, fire restrictions, and wildlife population changes can all impact hunting conditions throughout the season.
Plan responsibly, hunt ethically, and respect both the wildlife resource and fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Idaho’s hunting heritage depends on each of us doing our part to maintain these incredible opportunities for future generations.
Bookmark this page and check back regularly for updates as the season progresses. Here’s to a safe and successful 2025-2026 hunting season in Idaho! 🌲
