In The Spotlight
Statewide trout stocking highlights for May 2026
Many of Idaho’s lakes and ponds are soon going to be bolstered with Idaho Fish and Game stocking over 214,000 catchable-sized rainbow trout this April. We asked our Fish and Game hatchery staff to boil down some of the most notable stocking highlights coming to your local fishery this month.
Important dates to help plan your May
From tags sales to general season openers, there’s a lot happening in Idaho during May that you should be aware of. Staying in the loop can be the difference between applying for that coveted controlled hunt tag and watching from the sidelines.
Controlled hunt application period for deer, elk, pronghorn, swan, and fall black bear and turkey runs May 1 through June 5
The application period for fall 2026 deer, elk, pronghorn, swan, fall black bear, and fall turkey controlled hunts begins May 1 and runs through June 5. Hunters can also apply for the first Super Hunt drawing through May 31.
Application period for fall 2026 swan controlled hunt opens May 1
The application period to apply for fall 2026 swan controlled hunts in the Panhandle Region is May 1 through June 5. Successful controlled hunt applicants will be notified by July 10.
F&G provides hundreds of boating access sites and asks people to use them responsibly
Fish and Game spent $2.8 million in 2025 to operate, maintain, and improve fishing and boating access in Idaho. Access sites range from small parking lots for walk-in fishing to full-service recreation complexes that include boat ramps, docks, restrooms, large parking lots, campgrounds, lighting, and more.
Clearwater Region Spring Chinook Update 4/23/2026
Spring Chinook season opens April 25th, are you ready?
Youth Outdoor Skills Day event set for May 9, at Beaver Dick Park
Idaho Fish and Game is once again hosting its annual Youth Outdoor Skills Day event. Come join in on the fun Saturday, May 9th, at Beaver Dick Park on Highway 33 from 9am-2pm.
Catchable rainbow trout returned to Long Gulch Pond!
Long Gulch Pond is a great pit stop on your next scenic road trip along the Salmon River corridor and one of just a few community ponds stocked in Idaho county.
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