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Statewide trout stocking highlights for August 2026

Important dates to help plan your August

2027 Art Contest: Design next year’s hard card

Citizen science is the key to F&G’s hugely successful program, Turkey Tracker

Salmon Outdoor Classroom Osprey Camera

hunter posing with spike bull shot in 2025

Second big game controlled hunt drawing application period is Aug. 5-15

Tuesday, July 28, 2026 - 8:54 AM MDT

The application period for Idaho’s second big game controlled hunt drawing runs Aug. 5-15. Tags available in the second drawing include those for deer, elk, pronghorn, and black bear that were not applied for in the first drawing and those that were not claimed by the Aug. 1 deadline.

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IDFG receives $1.65M grant to increase hunting/angling public access

Thursday, August 13, 2026 - 9:18 AM MDT

Thanks in part to a $1.65 million federal grant recently awarded to Idaho Fish and Game, hunters and anglers can look forward to more public access on private land through the Access Yes! program. As of August 2026, about 328,000 acres of private property are enrolled in Access Yes!

Fish salvage order issued for Winder Reservoir in Franklin County

Wednesday, August 12, 2026 - 12:49 PM MDT

Idaho Fish and Game has issued a salvage order for Winder Reservoir in Franklin County, effective Aug. 14 through Oct. 31, 2026. Reservoir water levels are decreasing rapidly which will impact fish survival. An order of salvage will help maximize public use of these fish.

Crystal Lake fishing and boating access site in the Panhandle Region

Parking area at Crystal Lake Fish and Game access site reopens for public use

Wednesday, August 12, 2026 - 11:38 AM MDT

After a temporary emergency closure in June, Idaho Fish and Game has reopened the parking area at the Crystal Lake access site, located about two miles east of Priest River along Highway 2.

Fish salvage order issued for Oakley Reservoir

Tuesday, August 11, 2026 - 3:23 PM MDT

Idaho Fish and Game is issuing a salvage order for Oakley Reservoir effective Aug. 13 through Nov. 1, 2026. As the reservoir is drawn down, water levels and conditions will become unsuitable for the fishery. The salvage order provides an opportunity for anglers to make use of the fish that would otherwise be lost as the reservoir is dewatered.

Fishing and boating access site at Morton Slough on the Pend Oreille River

Here are 6 tips for keeping Idaho’s access sites running smoothly

Monday, August 10, 2026 - 12:52 PM MDT

With people hitting the water to escape the last few weeks of summer, Idaho Fish and Game wants you to use and enjoy its 400 access sites throughout the state. Follow these simple guidelines to keep things flowing smoothly.

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IDFG seeks hunter input on potential hunt options before 2027 season setting

Monday, August 10, 2026 - 8:09 AM MDT

Idaho Fish and Game is asking hunters to share their thoughts on potential hunting options in the Southwest and Upper Snake regions before the official season-setting public comment period begins in early 2027.

Shooting a compound bow at the Boise River WMA 3D archery range

Hunters: As hunting season draws near, now is the perfect time to dial in your bow or firearm

Friday, August 7, 2026 - 9:13 AM MDT

Hunting season will be here before we know it. Whether you’re hauling a rifle or a recurve out into the field with you this hunting season, proper maintenance and preparation is a must. Be sure to brush up on your marksmanship and take care of your weapon to ensure a fun, safe (and “interesting”) hunt.

Range grant application period is open; deadline is Nov. 2

Thursday, August 6, 2026 - 2:21 PM MDT

Idaho Fish and Game enhances recreational shooting ranges through its Shooting Range Development Grant program to assist organizations or agencies to establish, upgrade, expand, or otherwise improve public firearms and archery ranges in Idaho.