Don’t let the cold weather fool you; Idaho’s spring black bear and turkey controlled hunts will start in a little over two months.
Spring controlled hunts for black bear begin April 1, with some spring controlled turkey hunts beginning as early as April 8.
Hunters are reminded that they have through February 15 to apply for Idaho’s spring black bear controlled hunts, with controlled hunt applications for spring turkey accepted February 1 through March 1.
Youth hunters as young as ten years old can participate in these hunts. Anyone nine years old or older may purchase a license to apply for a controlled hunt tag, but must be ten years old to participate in a hunt.
To apply for a controlled hunt, residents and nonresidents must have a valid Idaho hunting license. Hunters may apply at any hunting and fishing license vendor; Fish and Game office; with a credit card by calling 1-800-554-8685; or online at https://idfg.idaho.gov/tag/controlled-hunt. Applications with the proper fees can also be mailed to any Fish and Game office.
Any leftover tags for the spring bear or spring turkey controlled hunt drawings go on sale April 1.
Spring 2017 bear controlled hunt information is in the 2015-2016 Big Game Seasons and Rules book. Spring turkey controlled hunt information is available in the 2016-2017 Upland Game, Furbearer and Turkey Seasons and Rules book. Both are available at all license vendors, Fish and Game offices and online at https://idfg.idaho.gov/hunt/rules.