From tags sales to season closures, there’s a lot happening in Idaho during January 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.
Be sure to stay up to date on all Fish and Game happenings. Here are some important dates you should know to help you plan.
JANUARY 2026
*Waterfowl Hunters: There are several migratory game bird hunting seasons that close during the month of January. Please see the 2025-2026 seasons and rules booklet for a full list of specific waterfowl closures.
1/1 – New Year’s Day Public Holiday (Fish and Game Offices Closed)
1/1 – First day of the 2026 hunting/fishing season. Make sure to purchase a 2026 license.
1/1 – OPEN: Spring steelhead season (Learn more)
1/14 – 1/15 – January Commission Meeting in Boise
1/15 – Spring black bear controlled hunt application period starts
1/19 – Martin Luther King Jr. Day Public Holiday (Fish and Game Offices Closed)
1/20 – DEADLINE: Nonresidents Claim Awarded Tags (except DAV) (Learn more)
1/31 – CLOSED: Forest grouse season in Area 1
1/31 – CLOSED: California and Bobwhite quail season
1/31 – CLOSED: Chukar and gray partridge season
1/31 – CLOSED: Fall General Turkey season closes in Region 1 (Units 1, 2 (except Farragut State Park and WMA), 3, 4, 4A, 5, 6, 7 and 9) (See Page 22 of the 2024 & 2025 Idaho Upland Game, Turkey & Furbearer Seasons and Rule booklet)
Note: Hunters, anglers and trappers should always double check the seasons and rules booklets to confirm opening and closing dates, as well as restrictions and rules pertaining to individual species.
