Loading intel...
Idaho Hunting Headquarters
The Complete Idaho
Hunting Resource.
Everything you need to hunt Idaho: interactive GMU maps with public land overlays, 2025 season dates, application strategies, and detailed unit breakdowns for all 99 game management units.
99
Game Management Units
21.8M
Acres of Public Land
290K+
Licensed Hunters (2024)
20.4M
National Forest Acres
Quick Start
GMU Map Directory
Interactive boundaries, terrain analysis, and public land overlays for all 99 Idaho game management units.
Explore All Units
2025 Season Dates
Complete breakdown of archery, rifle, and muzzleloader seasons by zone. Includes application deadlines.
View Calendar
Interactive Hunt Planner
Layer public land, recent burns, water sources, and unit boundaries. Plan your hunt from anywhere.
Launch Map
2025 Season Overview
Full CalendarArchery
Aug 30 - Sep 30, 2025
Elk, Deer
Rifle (General)
Oct 10 - Nov 11, 2025
Elk, Deer, Bear
Muzzleloader
Dec 10-20, 2025
Deer (select units)
Late Season
Nov 25 - Dec 31, 2025
Elk (select units)
* Dates are approximate and vary by zone. Always consult official IDFG regulations.
Understanding Idaho Tags
General Season (OTC)
Available over-the-counter at any license vendor. No application required. Valid statewide for most deer and elk hunts.
DeerElk (A-tags)TurkeyUpland Birds
Controlled Hunt
Limited entry tags requiring an application. Drawing odds vary by unit and weapon type. Points system helps increase future odds.
Elk (B-tags)MooseBighorn SheepMountain Goat
Leftover Tags
Unfilled controlled hunt tags sold first-come-first-served after drawing results. Check IDFG website for availability dates.
Various species/unitsPremium opportunities
Popular Hunting Units
View All 99 UnitsHunting Guides & Articles
Elk Application Strategy 2025
Point creep analysis, draw odds by unit, and which zones to target.
Complete Elk Bugling Guide
Rut timing, calling techniques, and when silence is golden.
E-Scouting Public Land Edges
Find overlooked hunting pockets without leaving home.
Skill Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
When does elk hunting season start in Idaho?
Idaho's general archery elk season typically opens on August 30th each year. The general rifle season usually opens on October 10th. Exact dates vary by zone and can be found in the official IDFG regulations.
Do I need to apply for a controlled hunt tag in Idaho?
It depends on the species and unit. General season (over-the-counter) tags are available for most deer and elk hunts without an application. However, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, and some premium elk units require a controlled hunt application through the annual drawing.
How much does an Idaho elk tag cost for non-residents?
Non-resident elk tags in Idaho cost approximately $576.75 for a general season tag (2024 prices). This requires a hunting license ($154.75) and includes the elk tag. Controlled hunt tags may have additional application fees.
What is the best unit for elk hunting in Idaho?
Top units depend on your goals. Unit 10 (Panhandle) and Units 15-18 (Clearwater) offer excellent general season hunting. Premium controlled hunt units like Unit 27 and Unit 39 have higher harvest rates but require points to draw.
Can I hunt on BLM land in Idaho?
Yes, hunting is allowed on most BLM land in Idaho unless specifically posted otherwise. Idaho has approximately 11.8 million acres of BLM land, primarily in the southern part of the state. Always verify land ownership before hunting.
When is the controlled hunt application deadline in Idaho?
The controlled hunt application period typically runs from early April through early June. For 2025, applications are due by June 5th at 11:59 PM Mountain Time. Results are usually available by mid-July.
Official Resources
Ready to Plan Your Hunt?
Open the interactive map to layer unit boundaries, public land access, and terrain data. Find your perfect hunting spot.
Launch Hunt Planner Map