Idaho Bear Season 2026-27
Idaho bear season dates start with Aug 30-Oct 31, 2026. The table below keeps every listed bear row together with zones and notes where available.
Quick answer
Idaho's listed 2026-27 bear season runs Aug 30-Oct 31, 2026.
General Spring Black Bear opens Apr 1, 2027 and closes Jun 30, 2027.
The tables below keep the rest of the listed seasons together by species, with source links back to Idaho Fish & Game.
Bear
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)
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)
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Nearby bear seasons
Idaho Bear Season FAQ
When does bear season open in Idaho?
August 30, 2026 is the earliest listed bear opener in Idaho — general fall black bear runs Aug 30-Oct 31, 2026. Confirm zone and permit details with Idaho Fish & Game.
What are the 2026-27 bear season dates in Idaho?
Idaho lists 2 bear season windows: General Fall Black Bear (Aug 30-Oct 31, 2026); General Spring Black Bear (Apr 1-Jun 30, 2027). Always verify against Idaho Fish & Game before hunting.
Are there different bear seasons in Idaho?
Yes — Idaho lists separate bear seasons for General Fall Black Bear, General Spring Black Bear. Each can carry its own dates, zones, and weapon rules; see the table above and Idaho Fish & Game.
Do I need a license to hunt bear in Idaho?
Yes. Idaho generally requires the appropriate hunting license, and bear hunting may also require tags, permits, stamps, or zone authorizations. Confirm requirements with Idaho Fish & Game.