Idaho 2026-27 Hunting Season Dates
Quick answer
Idaho's 2026-27 firearm deer season opens between September 15, 2026 and October 10, 2026 depending on zone; the last zone closes November 20, 2026.
Archery deer season opens between August 30, 2026 and December 1, 2026 depending on zone; the last zone closes December 31, 2026.
Duck season opens between October 3, 2026 and October 19, 2026 depending on zone; the last zone closes January 31, 2027.
The tables below keep the rest of the listed seasons together by species, with source links back to Idaho Fish & Game.
- firearm deer
- opens Sep 15-Oct 10, 2026 by zone
- archery deer
- opens Aug 30-Dec 1, 2026 by zone
- duck
- opens Oct 3-19, 2026 by zone
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Key seasons by species
How to read Idaho's seasons
Units, zones, and controlled hunts frame every season
Idaho manages deer and elk by game unit and elk zone, mixing general (over-the-counter) tags with controlled hunts you must draw. The dates below only tell the full story once paired with a unit and tag type.
Confirm zone boundaries, controlled-hunt numbers, and application deadlines with the official Idaho Fish and Game source.
We summarize official agency information and link to the source for verification. Regulations can change, and zone details matter. Always confirm final dates, bag limits, permits, and legal requirements with Idaho Fish & Game before hunting.
New 2026-27
federal openings
in Idaho
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service opened or expanded hunting and fishing access at 4 stations in Idaho. The final rule took effect August 31, 2026.
Deer
116 listed rowsMule Deer or White-tailed Deer
Short Range Weapon - General
Portion of unit only. See Note 6 page 15. Motorized Hunting Rule applies.
Zone: Unit 53
Mule Deer or White-tailed Deer
Any Weapon - General
Second deer tag may not be used in Units 16A, 17, 19, and 20.
Zone: Units 16A, 17, 19, 20
Mule Deer or White-tailed Deer
Any Weapon - General
White-tailed deer only. Antlered Oct 10-Oct 31, antlerless Oct 10-Nov 9.
Zone: Units 4, 7, 9 (White-tailed deer only)
Mule Deer or White-tailed Deer
Short Range Weapon - General
Very limited access. See Note 3 page 15.
Zone: Unit 38
White-tailed Deer
Any Weapon - General
White-tailed deer only.
Zone: Units 20A, 26, 27
White-tailed Deer
Any Weapon - General
White-tailed deer only. Second white-tailed deer tag may not be used in Units 16A, 17, 19 and 20.
Zone: Units 16A, 17, 19, 20
White-tailed Deer
Any Weapon - General
White-tailed deer only. Very limited access because of private property.
Zone: Unit 8
White-tailed Deer
Any Weapon - General
White-tailed deer only.
Zone: Units 33, 34, 35
White-tailed Deer
Any Weapon - General
White-tailed deer only. See Note 3 page 18.
Zone: Unit 24
White-tailed Deer
Any Weapon - General
White-tailed deer only. CWD testing required.
Zone: Unit 23
White-tailed Deer
Any Weapon - General
White-tailed deer only.
Zone: Units 4, 7, 9
White-tailed Deer
Any Weapon - General
White-tailed deer only.
Zone: Units 15, 16, 19A
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| White-tailed DeerAny Weapon - General · Units 1, 2, 3, 4A, 5, 6White-tailed deer only. See Note 1 page 18. CWD transport rules apply and testing required in portion of Unit 1. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerShort Range Weapon - General · Unit 38White-tailed deer only. See Note 1 page 20. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerAny Weapon - General · Units 10, 12White-tailed deer only. Second white-tailed deer tag may not be used in Units 10 and 12. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerAny Weapon - General · Units 8A, 11White-tailed deer only. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerAny Weapon - General · Unit 10AWhite-tailed deer only. Second white-tailed deer tag may not be used in Unit 10A. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerAny Weapon - General · Unit 11AWhite-tailed deer only. Very limited access because of private property. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerAny Weapon - General · Units 14, 18White-tailed deer only. CWD transport rules apply and testing required. | Open | |
| White-tailed DeerShort Range Weapon - General · Units 21, 21A, 28, 29, 30, 30A, 36A, 36B, 37, 37AWhite-tailed deer only. Antlered Nov 1-Dec 9; antlerless Nov 1-Dec 31. Very limited access. Motorized Hunting Rule applies in Units 29 and 37A. | Open | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerMuzzleloader - General · Units 4, 7, 9Antlered Nov 10-Nov 14 and Nov 15-Dec 1 white-tailed deer only. Antlerless Nov 10-Dec 1 white-tailed deer only. | Upcoming | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Unit 39Portion of unit closed. See Notes 4 and 5 page 15. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerAny Weapon - General · Units 60, 61, 62AWhite-tailed deer tag. Antlered or antlerless. See Note 2 page 18. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Unit 39White-tailed deer only. See Notes 4 and 5 page 19. Portion of unit closed. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerAny Weapon - General · Units 50, 51, 58, 59, 59AWhite-tailed deer tag. Antlered or antlerless. Motorized Hunting Rule applies. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerMuzzleloader - General · Units 4, 7, 9White-tailed deer only. | Upcoming | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Unit 55Either sex. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerMuzzleloader - General · Unit 16White-tailed deer only. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerMuzzleloader - General · Unit 18White-tailed deer only. CWD transport rules apply and testing required. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerMuzzleloader - General · Unit 14White-tailed deer only. CWD transport rules apply and testing required. | Upcoming | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Unit 28Either sex Dec 1-Dec 31. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Unit 28White-tailed deer only. Very limited access. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerMuzzleloader - General · Unit 8AWhite-tailed deer only. | Upcoming | |
| White-tailed DeerMuzzleloader - General · Unit 10AWhite-tailed deer only. Antlerless only. Second white-tailed deer tag may not be used. | Upcoming | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Units 40, 41, 422-point deer only for antlered. No antlerless. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Unit 2Multiple periods: Aug 30-Sep 30, Nov 1-Dec 1 (white-tailed deer only), Dec 10-Dec 24. See Notes 1 and 2 page 15. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Units 60, 61, 62A, 63, 68, 71, 74No antlerless. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Units 1, 3, 4, 4A, 5, 6, 7, 9Antlered and antlerless (white-tailed deer only for antlerless). Also Dec 10-Dec 24. CWD transport rules apply in portion of Unit 1. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Unit 73ANo antlerless. Also Oct 10-Oct 24. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Units 30, 30A, 36A, 37, 47, 49 | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Unit 8Very limited access because of private property. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Unit 23CWD testing required. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Units 64, 69No antlerless Aug 30-Sep 30. Also Nov 20-Dec 19 white-tailed deer only. CWD testing required. Motorized Hunting Rule applies in Unit 69. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Units 29, 32, 32A, 37A, 52A, 56Motorized Hunting Rule applies. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Units 60A, 62, 65, 66, 67No antlerless Aug 30-Sep 30. Also Nov 20-Dec 19 white-tailed deer only. Motorized Hunting Rule applies in Unit 66. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Unit 38See Note 3 page 15. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Units 10, 10A, 12Second deer tag may not be used in Units 10, 10A, and 12. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Units 8A, 19A, 21, 21A, 24, 25, 31, 33, 34, 35, 36, 36B, 43, 46, 48, 57 | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Units 70, 72No antlerless. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Units 50, 51, 58, 59, 59A, 66A, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78No antlerless. Motorized Hunting Rule applies. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Unit 15 | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerArchery - General · Unit 222-point deer only for antlered. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerMuzzleloader - General · Unit 39Antlerless only. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerAny Weapon - General · Units 20A, 26, 27Antlered only, no antlerless. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerAny Weapon - General · Unit 24Antlerless youth hunt only. See Note 3 page 13. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerAny Weapon - General · Unit 64No antlerless. CWD testing required. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerAny Weapon - General · Unit 69No antlerless. CWD testing required. Motorized Hunting Rule applies. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerMuzzleloader - General · Unit 73AAntlered only. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerAny Weapon - General · Unit 23Antlerless white-tailed deer only. CWD testing required. | Closed | |
| Mule Deer or White-tailed DeerAny Weapon - General · Unit 32AAntlered Oct 10-Oct 24; antlerless white-tailed deer only. Motorized Hunting Rule applies. | Closed |
Showing 60 of 116 listed deer rows, open and upcoming seasons first. See all 116 Idaho deer seasons →
Turkey
26 listed rowsWild Turkey
Fall Controlled Hunt (Either Sex) - Hunt 9014
Access is Limited. 30 tags. Application period May 1 - June 5.
Zone: All of Units 36A, 36B, 37, 37A and that portion of Unit 28 upstream from and including Hat Creek drainage
Wild Turkey
Fall General - Either Sex
Zone: GMUs 8, 8A, 10A, 11, 11A, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 21, 21A, and that portion of Unit 28 downstream from Hat Creek drainage, 29, 30, 68A, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77 & 78
Wild Turkey
Fall General - Either Sex
Hunt overlaps calendar years. Turkey tags expire Dec 31 year of purchase. See note 2 in source.
Zone: GMUs 1, 2 (except Farragut SP/WMA), 3, 4, 4A, 5, 6, 7 & 9
Wild Turkey
Fall Controlled Hunt - Youth Only (Either Sex) - Hunt 9012
Youth Hunt. 25 tags. Application period May 1 - June 5.
Zone: All of Units 50, 51, 58, 59, 59A, 60, 60A, 61, 62, 62A, 63, 63A, 64, 65, 66, 67 and 69
Wild Turkey
Fall Controlled Hunt (Either Sex) - Hunt 9016
50 tags. Application period May 1 - June 5.
Zone: Outside National Forest System boundary in Units 54 and 55
Wild Turkey
Fall Controlled Hunt (Either Sex) - Hunt 9013
75 tags. Application period May 1 - June 5.
Zone: Outside National Forest System boundary in Units 22, 31 and 32 (except Payette County portion)
Wild Turkey
Fall General - Archery Only (Either Sex)
Archery only. Archery Permit Required.
Zone: GMU 2 - Farragut State Park and WMA only
Wild Turkey
Spring General - Youth Only (Male or Bearded)
Youth Only hunt. Hunters must be 10-17 years of age. Shooting hours 1/2 hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zone: GMU 32 (Payette County portion) & 38
Wild Turkey
Spring Controlled Hunt - Youth Only (Male or Bearded) - Hunt 9002
Youth Hunt. 25 tags. Application period Feb 1 - Mar 1. Leftover tags on sale Mar 25 at 10:00am MDT.
Zone: All of Units 54 and 55
Wild Turkey
Spring Controlled Hunt - Youth Only (Male or Bearded) - Hunt 9001
Youth Hunt. 100 tags. Application period Feb 1 - Mar 1. Leftover tags on sale Mar 25 at 10:00am MDT.
Zone: All of Units 50, 51, 58, 59, 59A, 60, 60A, 61, 62, 62A, 63, 63A, 64, 65, 66, 67 and 69
Wild Turkey
Spring General - Youth Only (Male or Bearded)
Youth Only hunt. Hunters must be 10-17 years of age. Shooting hours 1/2 hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zone: GMUs 1, 2 (except Farragut SP/WMA), 3, 4, 4A, 5, 6, 7, 8, 8A, 9, 10, 10A, 11, 11A, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 16A, 17, 18, 19, 19A, 20, 22, 23, 24, 31, 32 (except Payette Co.), 32A, 33, 39, 40, 68A, 70, 71,…
Wild Turkey
Spring General - Youth Only (Male or Bearded)
Youth Only hunt. Hunters must be 10-17 years of age. Shooting hours 1/2 hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zone: GMUs 21, 21A, 28, 29, 30, 36A, 36B, 37 & 37A
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Wild TurkeySpring Controlled Hunt (Male or Bearded) - Hunt 9007 · All of Units 54 and 5525 tags. Application period Feb 1 - Mar 1. | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeySpring General - Archery Only (Male or Bearded) · GMU 2 - Farragut State Park and WMA onlyArchery only. Archery Permit Required. Shooting hours 1/2 hour before sunrise to sunset. | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeySpring Controlled Hunt (Male or Bearded) - Hunt 9006 · All of Units 50, 51, 58, 59, 59A, 61, 62, 62A, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67 and 69200 tags. Application period Feb 1 - Mar 1. | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeySpring Controlled Hunt (Male or Bearded) - Hunt 9004 · All of Unit 38 and that portion of Unit 32 in Payette CountyAccess is Limited. 100 tags. Application period Feb 1 - Mar 1. | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeySpring Controlled Hunt (Male or Bearded) - Hunt 9008 · All of Units 60 and 60A100 tags. Application period Feb 1 - Mar 1. | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeySpring Controlled Hunt (Male or Bearded) - Hunt 9003 · All of Units 21, 21A, 28, 29, 30, 36A, 36B, 37 and 37AAccess is Limited. 70 tags. Application period Feb 1 - Mar 1. | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeySpring Controlled Hunt (Male or Bearded) - Hunt 9009 · All of Unit 63A50 tags. Application period Feb 1 - Mar 1. | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeySpring General (Male or Bearded) · GMUs 1, 2 (except Farragut SP/WMA), 3, 4, 4A, 5, 6, 7, 8, 8A, 9, 10, 10A, 11, 11A, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 16A, 17, 18, 19, 19A, 20, 22, 23, 24, 31, 32 (except Payette Co.), 32A, 33, 39, 40, 68A, 70, 71,…Shooting hours 1/2 hour before sunrise to sunset. | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeySpring Controlled Hunt (Male or Bearded) - Hunt 9005 · All of Unit 38 and that portion of Unit 32 in Payette CountyAccess is Limited. 100 tags. Application period Feb 1 - Mar 1. | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeySpring Controlled Hunt (Male or Bearded) - Hunt 9010 · All of Unit 63A50 tags. Application period Feb 1 - Mar 1. | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeyFall General - Either Sex · Outside National Forest System boundary in GMUs 22, 31, 32 (except Payette County portion), 32A, 33 & 39 | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeyFall Controlled Hunt - Youth Only (Either Sex) - Hunt 9011 · All of Units 22 and 31Youth Hunt. 20 tags. Application period May 1 - June 5. Leftover tags on sale July 15 at 10:00am MDT. | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeyFall General - Either Sex · GMUs 10, 12, 16A, 17, 19 & 20 | Closed | |
| Wild TurkeyFall Controlled Hunt (Either Sex) - Hunt 9015 · All of Unit 38 and that portion of Unit 32 in Payette County60 tags. Application period May 1 - June 5. | Closed |
Bear
Black Bear
General Spring
Spring 2027 seasons. Opening dates vary: Apr 1 or Apr 15 depending on unit. Closing dates vary: May 31 or June 30 depending on unit. Females with young are protected. Dates vary by unit; see pages 69-71.
Zone: Most units statewide (varies by unit)
Black Bear
General Fall
Fall 2026 general seasons run Aug 30-Oct 31 in most units. Spring 2027 seasons Apr 1/Apr 15-May 31/June 30 depending on unit. Females with young are protected. Bear ID test required. Specific dates, dog restrictions, and second tag availability vary by unit. See pages 69-71 for unit-specific details.
Zone: Most units statewide (varies by unit)
Elk
71 listed rowsElk
Any Weapon (B Tag)
Antlerless or spike only. Most elk in Unit 38 are on private property associated with agricultural production. Very limited access.
Zone: Boise River Zone - Unit 38 only
Elk
Any Weapon (B Tag)
Antlered only. 1,800 B Tag quota. Resident capped tags on sale 7/10/2026.
Zone: Sawtooth Zone (Units 33, 34, 35, 36)
Elk
Any Weapon (B Tag)
Antlered only. 2,507 B Tag quota. Capped tags on sale 7/8/2026.
Zone: Salmon Zone (Units 21, 21A, 28, 36B)
Elk
Any Weapon (B Tag)
Antlerless only. 500 B Tag quota. Capped tags on sale 7/8/2026.
Zone: South Hills Zone - Unit 56 only
Elk
Any Weapon (B Tag)
Antlered only. Portion of unit closed. See Note B.
Zone: Boise River Zone - Unit 39 only
Elk
Any Weapon (A Tag)
Antlerless only. Short range weapons only on Payette River and Montour WMAs. Very limited access. Also private land Nov 16-Nov 30.
Zone: Weiser River Zone - Unit 32 only
Elk
Any Weapon (B Tag)
Antlerless only. 350 B Tag quota. Capped tags on sale 7/8/2026.
Zone: Big Desert Zone - Units 52A, 68 only
Elk
Archery (A Tag)
Archery only, any elk. Unit 39 Archery Hunt CLOSED Area (Note A). See archers caution page 36.
Zone: Boise River Zone - Unit 39 only
Elk
Any Weapon (B Tag)
Antlerless only. 500 B Tag quota. Capped tags on sale 7/8/2026.
Zone: Pioneer Zone (Units 36A, 49, 50)
Elk
Any Weapon (B Tag)
Antlerless only. 600 B Tag quota. Capped tags on sale 7/8/2026.
Zone: Smoky-Bennett Zone - Units 44, 45, 52 only
Elk
Muzzleloader (A Tag)
Spike or antlerless.
Zone: Island Park Zone - Unit 61 only
Elk
Muzzleloader (A Tag)
Antlered only.
Zone: Panhandle Zone - Units 4, 7 and 9 only
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| ElkMuzzleloader (A Tag) · Elk City Zone - Units 14 and 16 onlyAntlerless only. CWD transport rules apply in Unit 14. | Upcoming | |
| ElkMuzzleloader (A Tag) · Dworshak Zone (Unit 10A)Antlered only. | Upcoming | |
| ElkMuzzleloader (A Tag) · Palouse Zone - Units 8 and 11A only (on/within 1 mile of private agricultural lands)Antlerless only. | Upcoming | |
| ElkMuzzleloader (A Tag) · Panhandle Zone - Units 1, 2, 3, 4A, 5 only (on/within 1 mile of private land)Antlerless only. See Note A. | Upcoming | |
| ElkMuzzleloader (A Tag) · Palouse Zone - Unit 8A onlySpike or antlerless Dec 2-Dec 5; spike only Dec 6-Dec 14. | Upcoming | |
| ElkShort Range Weapon (A Tag) · Snake River Zone - Unit 63A onlyAny elk Aug 1-Aug 31; antlerless only Sep 1-Nov 30. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (A Tag) · Palouse Zone (Units 8, 8A, 11A)Antlerless only. On/within 1 mile of private agricultural lands. See Note 1 page 49. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (A Tag) · Beaverhead Zone - Unit 30 onlyAntlerless only. On/within 1 mile of private irrigated agricultural lands. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (A Tag) · Salmon Zone - Unit 21A onlyAntlerless only. On private irrigated agricultural lands. See Note 3 page 49. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (A Tag) · Pioneer Zone - Unit 50 onlyAntlerless only. On/within 1 mile of private agricultural lands outside National Forest System Boundary. Also muzzleloader antlerless Nov 1-Nov 9. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (A Tag) · Beaverhead Zone - Units 58, 59, 59A onlyAntlerless only. On/within 1 mile of private agricultural lands outside National Forest System Boundary. Also muzzleloader antlerless Oct 15-Oct 31. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (A Tag) · Pioneer Zone - Unit 36A onlyAntlerless only. On/within 1 mile of private irrigated agricultural lands. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (B Tag) · Boise River Zone - Unit 38 onlyAny elk. Most elk in Unit 38 are on private property associated with agricultural production. Very limited access. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (B Tag) · Diamond Creek Zone - Portion of Unit 76 onlyAny elk. Extremely limited access because of private property. See Note A. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (A Tag) · Lemhi Zone - Units 29, 37, 37A onlyAntlerless only. On/within 1 mile of private irrigated agricultural lands. Also muzzleloader antlerless Nov 25-Dec 9. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (B Tag) · Weiser River Zone - Private land Unit 32 onlyAntlerless only. Also Unit 32 Oct 1-Oct 31 and antlered Oct 25-Nov 3. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (B Tag) · Brownlee Zone (Unit 31)Antlerless only. On/within 1 mile of agricultural lands outside National Forest System Boundary. Also Nov 15-Nov 30. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Salmon Zone - Units 21, 21A, 36B onlyAny elk. Also Unit 28 archery Dec 1-Dec 31. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Pioneer Zone (Units 36A, 49, 50)Any elk. Motorized Hunting Rule applies in Unit 50 Aug 30-Nov 14. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Bear River Zone (Units 75, 77, 78)Any elk. Motorized Hunting Rule applies Aug 30-Nov 14. Also antlerless any weapon Oct 25-Nov 15 and muzzleloader antlerless Dec 1-Dec 31. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Panhandle Zone (Units 1, 2, 3, 4, 4A, 5, 6, 7, 9)Antlered only. Also Dec 10-Dec 16 archery antlered only. Sep 15-Sep 21 archery any elk on/within 1 mile of private land in Units 1,2,3,4A,5,6 only. See archers caution page 36. CWD transport rules apply in portion of Unit 1. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Beaverhead Zone (Units 30, 30A, 58, 59, 59A)Any elk. Motorized Hunting Rule applies in Units 58, 59 and 59A Aug 30-Nov 14. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Diamond Creek Zone (Units 66A, 76)Any elk. 1,836 A Tag quota. Motorized Hunting Rule applies Aug 30-Nov 14. Capped tags on sale 7/8/2026. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Island Park Zone (Units 60, 60A, 61, 62, 62A)Any elk. B Tags - see controlled hunts. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Lolo Zone (Units 10, 12)Antlered only. 404 A Tag quota first-come first-served. Capped tags on sale 7/8/2026. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Sawtooth Zone (Units 33, 34, 35, 36)Any elk. 1,000 A Tag quota. Resident capped tags on sale 7/10/2026. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Bannock Zone (Units 70, 71, 72, 73, 73A, 74)Any elk. Motorized Hunting Rule applies in Unit 73 Aug 30-Nov 14. Also antlerless any weapon Oct 25-Nov 15 and muzzleloader antlerless Dec 1-Dec 31. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (B Tag) · Tex Creek Zone (Units 66, 69)Spike or antlerless. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · McCall Zone (Units 19A, 23, 24, 25)Any elk. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Dworshak Zone (Unit 10A)Antlered only. Also muzzleloader Dec 2-Dec 14. 1,171 A Tag quota. Capped tags on sale 7/8/2026. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · South Hills Zone - Units 55, 56, 57 onlyAny elk. Motorized Hunting Rule applies in Unit 56 Aug 30-Nov 14. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (B Tag) · Bear River Zone (Units 75, 77, 78)Spike or antlerless. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Palouse Zone (Units 8, 8A, 11A)Any elk. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Lemhi Zone (Units 29, 37, 37A, 51)Any elk. Motorized Hunting Rule applies in Units 29, 37A and 51 Aug 30-Nov 14. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Smoky-Bennett Zone - Units 43 and 48 onlyAny elk. Motorized Hunting Rule applies in Units 45 and 52 Aug 30-Nov 14. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Elk City Zone - Units 15 & 16 onlyAntlered only. 628 A Tag quota. Second elk tags not available. Capped tags on sale 7/8/2026. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Tex Creek Zone (Units 66, 69)Any elk. Motorized Hunting Rule applies Aug 30-Nov 14. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Brownlee Zone (Unit 31)Any elk. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Big Desert Zone - Units 52A, 68 onlyAny elk. Also Unit 68 Aug 1-Aug 30 archery and Unit 68A Aug 1-Dec 31 archery. Unit 53 short range weapons only any elk Aug 1-Dec 31. Motorized Hunting Rule applies in Units 52A and 53 Aug 30-Nov 14. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Weiser River Zone (Units 22, 32, 32A)Any elk. Motorized Hunting Rule applies in Units 32 and 32A Aug 30-Nov 14. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (A Tag) · Palisades Zone (Units 64, 65, 67)Any elk. | Closed | |
| ElkArchery (B Tag) · Panhandle Zone (Units 1, 2, 3, 4, 4A, 5, 6, 7, 9)Antlered only. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (B Tag) · Middle Fork Zone (Units 20A, 26, 27)Units 20A and 26: antlered only; Unit 27: brow-tined bulls only. Also Nov 1-Nov 18. 1,636 B Tag quota. Capped tags on sale 7/8/2026. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (B Tag) · Selway Zone (Units 16A, 17, 19, 20)Antlered only. Also Nov 1-Nov 11. 1,067 B Tag quota. Capped tags on sale 7/8/2026. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (A Tag) · Middle Fork Zone (Units 20A, 26, 27)Units 20A and 26: antlered only; Unit 27: brow-tined bulls only. 1,551 A Tag quota. Capped tags on sale 7/8/2026. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (A Tag) · Selway Zone (Units 16A, 17, 19, 20)Antlered only. 647 A Tag quota. Capped tags on sale 7/8/2026. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (B Tag) · Diamond Creek Zone - Portion of Unit 76 onlyAntlerless only. Extremely limited access. 150 B Tag quota. Capped tags on sale 7/8/2026. | Closed | |
| ElkAny Weapon (A Tag) · McCall Zone (Units 19A, 23, 24, 25)Spike only. Also short range weapons only antlerless Aug 15-Sep 30 in Units 23 and 24 outside National Forest System Boundary, and Nov 10-Nov 30. | Closed |
Showing 60 of 71 listed elk rows, open and upcoming seasons first. See all 71 Idaho elk seasons →
Waterfowl
24 listed rowsCanada Goose
General
Possession limit 15
Zone: Area 4
Canada Goose
General
Possession limit 15
Zone: Area 2
Canada Goose
General
Possession limit 15
Zone: Area 1
Canada Goose
General
Possession limit 15
Zone: Area 3
Duck (including Mergansers), Wilson's Snipe and American Coot
General
Duck bag: 7 of any kind, not more than 2 female mallard, 2 redhead, 3 pintail, 2 canvasback, 2 scaup.
Zone: Area 2
Duck (including Mergansers), Wilson's Snipe and American Coot
General
Duck bag: 7 of any kind, not more than 2 female mallard, 2 redhead, 3 pintail, 2 canvasback, 2 scaup.
Zone: Area 3
Duck (including Mergansers), Wilson's Snipe and American Coot
General
Duck bag: 7 of any kind, not more than 2 female mallard, 2 redhead, 3 pintail, 2 canvasback, 2 scaup.
Zone: Area 1
Light Goose (Snow, Blue, Ross's)
General
Possession limit 60
Zone: Area 1
Light Goose (Snow, Blue, Ross's)
General
Possession limit 60
Zone: Area 4
Light Goose (Snow, Blue, Ross's)
General
Possession limit 60
Zone: Area 5
Light Goose (Snow, Blue, Ross's)
General
Possession limit 60
Zone: Area 3
Light Goose (Snow, Blue, Ross's)
General
Possession limit 60
Zone: Area 2
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Canada GooseGeneral · Area 4Possession limit 15 | Closed | |
| Duck, Goose, CootYouth and Veterans/Active Military Waterfowl Hunting Weekend · StatewideOpen to licensed hunters 17 and younger, veterans and active military. Daily limits same as regular season. | Closed | |
| Light Goose (Snow, Blue, Ross's)General · Area 3Possession limit 60. Recorded or electronically amplified calls and unplugged shotguns may be used when all other waterfowl seasons, except falconry, are closed. | Upcoming | |
| Light Goose (Snow, Blue, Ross's)General · Area 4Possession limit 60. Recorded or electronically amplified calls and unplugged shotguns may be used when all other waterfowl seasons, except falconry, are closed. | Upcoming | |
| ScaupScaup Season · Area 2 | Open | |
| ScaupScaup Season · Area 3 | Open | |
| ScaupScaup Season · Area 1 | Upcoming | |
| Tundra SwanControlled Hunt · Area 1 (Hunt 9301) - Benewah, Bonner, Boundary and Kootenai counties50 tags. Swan Controlled Hunt Tag required. | Open | |
| White-fronted GooseGeneral · Area 1Possession limit 18 | Open | |
| White-fronted GooseGeneral · Area 4Possession limit 18 | Open | |
| White-fronted GooseGeneral · Area 2Possession limit 18 | Open | |
| White-fronted GooseGeneral · Area 3Possession limit 18 | Open |
Dove
Mourning Dove
Extended Falconry
Extended Falconry Season. Refer to Idaho Upland Game, Turkey & Furbearer Seasons & Rules for more information.
Zone: Statewide
Mourning Dove and White-winged Dove
Regular Firearm
Migratory Bird (HIP) Permit required. Federal Duck Stamp NOT required. Shotgun capable of carrying no more than 3 shells required. Nontoxic shot NOT required. Shot no larger than size T (0.2 inches).
Zone: Statewide
Pheasant
Ring-necked Pheasant
General - Upland Game Bird Permit Release Area - Resident
Hunters 18+ must have Upland Game Bird Permit. Multiple permits may be purchased. Shooting hours 10:00am to 1/2 hour after sunset (8:00am in Clearwater Region).
Zone: Statewide - Upland Game Bird Permit Release Areas
Ring-necked Pheasant
General - Resident
No season on hen (female) pheasants
Zone: Statewide
Ring-necked Pheasant
General - Nonresident
No season on hen (female) pheasants. Nonresident licenses not valid during first 5 days of pheasant season.
Zone: Statewide
Ring-necked Pheasant
Youth
Open for all licensed hunters 17 years of age or younger including pheasant release areas
Zone: Statewide
Quail
California and Bobwhite Quail
General
No season on Gambel's and Mountain Quail
Zone: Statewide
Grouse
Forest Grouse (Dusky/Blue, Ruffed, Spruce)
General
Zone: Area 2 - Remainder of the state
Forest Grouse (Dusky/Blue, Ruffed, Spruce)
General
Zone: Area 1 - Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Clearwater, Kootenai, Latah, Lewis, Nez Perce, Shoshone counties, and Adams and Idaho counties except portions in GMUs 19A, 20A, 22, 23, and 26
Sharp-tailed Grouse
General
Sharp-tailed grouse permit validation required. Area 2 (remainder of state) is CLOSED.
Zone: Area 1 - Bingham, Bonneville, Clark, Jefferson counties east of I-15, Power County south of I-86, portions of Cassia County, Bannock, Bear Lake, Caribou, Franklin, Fremont, Madison, Oneida, Teton cou…
Sage-Grouse
General
dates not listed
Exact dates not listed in the current data.
Sage-grouse seasons set in July. Tags on sale at 10:00am MDT August 3, 2026. Separate brochure available at idfg.idaho.gov/hunt/sage-grouse
Zone: Statewide
Rabbit
Cottontail
General
Pygmy Rabbit season is CLOSED
Zone: Statewide
Snowshoe Hare
General
Zone: Statewide
Cottontail
Extended Falconry
Extended falconry season.
Zone: Open statewide
Snowshoe Hare
Extended Falconry
Extended falconry season.
Zone: Open statewide
Cottontail
Extended Falconry
Extended falconry season.
Zone: Open statewide
Snowshoe Hare
Extended Falconry
Extended falconry season.
Zone: Open statewide
Squirrel
Red Squirrel
General
Zone: Statewide
Furbearer
59 listed rowsBadger
Trapping/Hunting
Year-round. Can also be hunted.
Zone: Southwest Region (Ada, Adams, Boise, Canyon, Elmore, Gem, Owyhee, Payette, Valley, Washington counties)
Badger
Trapping/Hunting
Year-round. Can also be hunted.
Zone: Magic Valley Region (Blaine, Camas, Cassia, Gooding, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, Twin Falls counties)
Badger
Trapping/Hunting
Year-round. Can also be hunted.
Zone: Upper Snake Region (Bonneville, Butte, Clark, Fremont, Jefferson, Madison, Teton counties)
Badger
Trapping/Hunting
Year-round. Can also be hunted.
Zone: Salmon Region (Custer and Lemhi counties)
Badger
Trapping/Hunting
Year-round. Can also be hunted.
Zone: Southeast Region (Bannock, Bear Lake, Bingham, Caribou, Franklin, Oneida, Power counties)
Badger
Trapping/Hunting
Year-round. Can also be hunted.
Zone: Panhandle Region (Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Kootenai, Shoshone counties)
Badger
Trapping/Hunting
Year-round. Can also be hunted.
Zone: Clearwater Region (Clearwater, Idaho, Latah, Lewis, Nez Perce counties)
Beaver
Trapping
Exceptions in Blaine, Camas, Elmore, Gooding counties. See rules.
Zone: Magic Valley Region
Beaver
Trapping
Zone: Salmon Region
Beaver
Trapping
Some stream closures apply including Boise River WMA (Ada & Boise counties), various drainages in Elmore and Valley counties. See exceptions.
Zone: Southwest Region
Beaver
Trapping
Some stream closures apply. See exceptions in rules.
Zone: Panhandle Region
Beaver
Trapping
Exceptions: Bannock County (Mink Cr., Gibson Jack Cr. closed), Bingham County (Willow Cr. closed), Caribou County (Dike Lake, Toponce Cr. NF lands, Pebble Cr. closed), Franklin County (Birch Cr. above FS boundary closed). Controlled beaver permits available for some areas.
Zone: Southeast Region
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| BeaverTrapping · Upper Snake RegionExceptions: Bonneville County (Willow Cr. closed), Clark County (multiple drainages upstream from Targhee NF boundary closed), Teton County (multiple drainages upstream from Targhee NF boundary closed). | Open | |
| BeaverTrapping · Clearwater RegionSome stream closures apply. See exceptions in rules. | Open | |
| Beaver (Controlled Permit 201)Controlled Trapping · Bannock County - portion of Mink Cr. drainage except East Fork and West Fork Mink Cr.Controlled trapping permit required. Application deadline September 15. | Open | |
| Beaver (Controlled Permit 202)Controlled Trapping · Caribou County - Pebble Cr. drainageControlled trapping permit required. Application deadline September 15. | Open | |
| Beaver (Controlled Permit 203)Controlled Trapping · Caribou County - Toponce Cr. drainageControlled trapping permit required. Application deadline September 15. | Open | |
| BobcatTrapping/Hunting · Clearwater RegionMandatory check and pelt tag required. | Upcoming | |
| BobcatTrapping/Hunting · Magic Valley RegionMandatory check and pelt tag required. | Upcoming | |
| BobcatTrapping/Hunting · Southwest RegionMandatory check and pelt tag required. | Upcoming | |
| BobcatTrapping/Hunting · Salmon RegionMandatory check and pelt tag required. | Upcoming | |
| BobcatTrapping/Hunting · Upper Snake RegionMandatory check and pelt tag required. | Upcoming | |
| BobcatTrapping/Hunting · Southeast RegionMandatory check and pelt tag required. | Upcoming | |
| BobcatTrapping/Hunting · Panhandle RegionMandatory check and pelt tag required. Can also be hunted. | Upcoming | |
| FoxTrapping/Hunting · Upper Snake RegionYear-round. Can also be hunted. | Open | |
| FoxTrapping/Hunting · Salmon RegionYear-round. Can also be hunted. | Open | |
| FoxTrapping/Hunting · Southwest RegionYear-round. Can also be hunted. | Open | |
| FoxTrapping/Hunting · Magic Valley RegionYear-round. Can also be hunted. | Open | |
| FoxTrapping/Hunting · Southeast RegionYear-round. Can also be hunted. | Open | |
| FoxTrapping/Hunting · Panhandle RegionCan also be hunted. | Open | |
| FoxTrapping/Hunting · Clearwater RegionCan also be hunted. | Open | |
| MartenTrapping · Panhandle Region | Open | |
| MartenTrapping · Magic Valley Region | Open | |
| MartenTrapping · Southeast Region | Open | |
| MartenTrapping · Salmon Region | Open | |
| MartenTrapping · Southwest Region | Open | |
| MartenTrapping · Clearwater Region | Open | |
| MartenTrapping · Upper Snake Region | Open | |
| MinkTrapping · Salmon Region | Open | |
| MinkTrapping · Clearwater Region | Open | |
| MinkTrapping · Southeast Region | Open | |
| MinkTrapping · Magic Valley RegionException: Hagerman WMA in Gooding County CLOSED except Feb 15-28. | Open | |
| MinkTrapping · Upper Snake Region | Open | |
| MinkTrapping · Southwest Region | Open | |
| MinkTrapping · Panhandle Region | Open | |
| MuskratTrapping · Panhandle Region | Open | |
| MuskratTrapping · Clearwater Region | Open | |
| MuskratTrapping · Magic Valley RegionException: Hagerman WMA in Gooding County CLOSED except Feb 15-28. | Open | |
| MuskratTrapping · Upper Snake Region | Open | |
| MuskratTrapping · Salmon Region | Open | |
| MuskratTrapping · Southwest Region | Open | |
| MuskratTrapping · Southeast Region | Open | |
| River OtterTrapping · Clearwater RegionQuota: 30. Mandatory reporting and pelt tag required. | Open | |
| River OtterTrapping · Panhandle RegionQuota: 45. Mandatory reporting and pelt tag required. Season closes 72 hours after quota reached. | Open | |
| River OtterTrapping · Southwest RegionQuota: 30. Mandatory reporting and pelt tag required. | Open | |
| River OtterTrapping · Magic Valley RegionQuota: 30. Mandatory reporting and pelt tag required. | Open | |
| River OtterTrapping · Salmon RegionQuota: 15. Mandatory reporting and pelt tag required. | Open | |
| River OtterTrapping · Southeast RegionQuota: 15. Mandatory reporting and pelt tag required. | Open | |
| River OtterTrapping · Upper Snake RegionQuota: 20. Mandatory reporting and pelt tag required. | Open |
Small Game
Upland Game Birds (Forest Grouse, California & Bobwhite Quail, Chukar, Gray Partridge, Sage-Grouse, Sharp-tailed Grouse, Pheasants)
Extended Falconry
Daily bag 3 of any kind, not more than 1 pheasant or 1 sharp-tailed grouse; possession 9. Sage-grouse requires tags and may only be used in designated zones.
Zone: All counties or parts of counties which have a firearms season open to hunting by falconry
Upland Game Birds (Forest Grouse, California & Bobwhite Quail, Chukar, Gray Partridge, Sage-Grouse, Sharp-tailed Grouse, Pheasants)
Extended Falconry
Daily bag 3 of any kind, not more than 1 pheasant or 1 sharp-tailed grouse; possession 9.
Zone: All counties or parts of counties which have a firearms season open to hunting by falconry
Migratory Birds
14 listed rowsSandhill Crane
General
50 tags. Season limit 2. Sandhill Crane Tag required.
Zone: Area 5 - Swan Lake
Sandhill Crane
General
30 tags. Season limit 2. Sandhill Crane Tag required.
Zone: Area 4 - Jefferson
Sandhill Crane
General
40 tags. Season limit 2. Sandhill Crane Tag required.
Zone: Area 2 - Teton
Sandhill Crane
General
50 tags. Season limit 2. Sandhill Crane Tag required.
Zone: Area 6 - Malad
Sandhill Crane
General
300 tags. Season limit 2. Sandhill Crane Tag required.
Zone: Area 1 - Bear Lake
Sandhill Crane
General
40 tags. Season limit 2. Sandhill Crane Tag required.
Zone: Area 3 - Fremont
Sandhill Crane
General
30 tags. Season limit 2. Sandhill Crane Tag required.
Zone: Area 4 - Jefferson
Sandhill Crane
General
40 tags. Season limit 2. Sandhill Crane Tag required.
Zone: Area 3 - Fremont
Sandhill Crane
General
20 tags. Season limit 2. Sandhill Crane Tag required.
Zone: Area 6 - Malad
Sandhill Crane
General
30 tags. Season limit 2. Sandhill Crane Tag required.
Zone: Area 3 - Fremont
Sandhill Crane
General
40 tags. Season limit 2. Sandhill Crane Tag required.
Zone: Area 2 - Teton
Sandhill Crane
General
150 tags. Season limit 2. Sandhill Crane Tag required.
Zone: Area 1 - Bear Lake
| Season | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Sandhill CraneGeneral · Area 4 - Jefferson30 tags. Season limit 2. Sandhill Crane Tag required. | Closed | |
| Sandhill CraneGeneral · Area 5 - Swan Lake20 tags. Season limit 2. Sandhill Crane Tag required. | Closed |
Pronghorn
Pronghorn
Controlled Hunt - Archery
Archery only controlled hunts Aug 15-Sep 15 in multiple units. Some buck only, some either sex. Dates vary by hunt number.
Zone: Various units
Pronghorn
Controlled Hunt - Either Sex
All pronghorn hunting is by controlled hunt. Multiple hunt numbers for various units Sep 25-Oct 24. See pronghorn controlled hunt tables for specific units. Dates vary by hunt number.
Zone: Various units - controlled hunts only
Pronghorn
Controlled Hunt - Muzzleloader
Muzzleloader only controlled hunts. Dates vary by hunt number.
Zone: Various units
Mountain Lion
Mountain Lion
General
General season July 1 2026-June 30 2027 in all units. Dogs prohibited periods vary by unit. Second lion tag available in select units. Electronic calls limited in Units 1, 60, 60A, 61, 62, 62A. Spotted young and females with spotted young protected. See pages 75-76 for unit-specific dog prohibited periods and notes.
Zone: All units statewide
Other
American Crow
Regular Season
Migratory Bird (HIP) Permit NOT required. Federal Duck Stamp NOT required. Nontoxic shot NOT required. Cannot take from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise, or with trap, snare, net, rifle, pistol or shotgun using shells exceeding 3.5 inches. Areas closed to upland game birds also closed to crows.
Zone: Statewide
Chukar Partridge
General
Zone: Statewide
Gray Partridge
General
Zone: Statewide
Gray Wolf
Hunting - Public Land General
General hunting rules apply. Expanded hunting methods not allowed. July 1-June 30.
Zone: Units 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 8A, 11, 11A, 13, 19A, 21, 21A, 25, 30, 30A, 38, 40, 41, 42, 46, 47, 48, 54, 55, 57, 60, 60A, 61, 62A, 63, 63A, 68, 68A, 70, 71, 72, 73A, 74
Gray Wolf
Hunting - Private Land
Expanded hunting methods allowed statewide on private land year-round. Hunter use of private land must comply with trespass laws.
Zone: Statewide
Gray Wolf
Hunting - Public Land General with Expanded Methods
Apr 1-Nov 14 general hunting rules apply. Nov 15-Mar 31 expanded hunting methods allowed. Motorized Hunting Rule applies Aug 30-Nov 14 in Units 29, 32, 32A, 50, 51.
Zone: Units 4, 4A, 6, 7, 9, 10, 10A, 12, 14, 15, 16, 16A, 17, 18, 19, 20, 20A, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 31, 33, 34, 35, 36, 36A, 36B, 37, 39, 43, 44, 49, 62, 64, 65, 67
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Idaho Hunting Season FAQ
When does deer season start in Idaho?
Archery deer season opens between August 30, 2026 and December 1, 2026 depending on zone; the last zone closes December 31, 2026. Firearm deer season opens between September 15, 2026 and October 10, 2026 depending on zone; the last zone closes November 20, 2026. Dates can differ by zone and permit; confirm with Idaho Fish & Game.
When is Idaho's firearm deer season?
Firearm deer season opens between September 15, 2026 and October 10, 2026 depending on zone; the last zone closes November 20, 2026. Check zone and permit details with Idaho Fish & Game before hunting.
Do I need a license to hunt in Idaho?
Yes. Hunters generally need the appropriate Idaho hunting license, and some seasons may require tags, permits, stamps, or zone-specific authorizations. Confirm final requirements with Idaho Fish & Game.
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