Large Tracts Program: Know before you go

Parcels in enrolled in Idaho’s Large Tracts Program can change ownership at any time. Hunters, anglers and recreationists should never assume last season’s access is still valid this season. Always confirm land status before your trip by checking the Idaho Hunt Planner.

Idahoans are fortunate—two-thirds of their land is public—but many valuable and publicly accessible hunting and recreation areas in the Panhandle and Clearwater regions are private, working timberlands enrolled in the Large Tracts Program. 

Since 2019, this partnership has opened over 900,000 acres to the public. Because these parcels are private, working timberlands, sales, transfers and restrictions can—and do—occur.

Ownership changes. Access changes. Don’t assume—check before you go.

What Fish and Game is doing

• Routinely communicating with the public about rules associated with Large Tract parcels.
• Partnering with timberland owners to update maps with closures, restrictions and land transfers before, during and after hunting seasons.
• Working with hunting app developers to incorporate consistent and accurate maps.
• Working with the public and partners to identify errors and quickly make corrections.
• Conservation officers are enforcing motorized restrictions and educating hunters about restrictions and closures.

What you can do

• Always check the Idaho Hunt Planner before your trip to confirm parcel status.
• Respect private property signs and gates—even if maps show otherwise.
• Report discrepancies: If you believe property is incorrectly signed, contact Fish and Game. Staff will research and provide guidance.
  • Panhandle Regional office: (208) 769-1414
  • Clearwater Regional office: (208) 799-5010

Remember—access  to Large Tracts parcels is a privilege made possible through partnership. Your diligence helps keep these opportunities available for everyone.

Helpful resources

Program information and rules

• Large Tracts Program information
• PotlatchDeltic land rules
• North Idaho Timber Group rules

Motorized use

• Motorized restriction Facts sheet
• Motorized restriction information
• Motorized restriction maps
• Motorized Vehicle Maps (MVUM) from the U.S. Forest Service

Planning tools

• Idaho Hunt Planner

Licenses and tags

• Online
• Regional office
• Vendor

Stay updated

Follow regional Fish and Game Facebook pages for timely updates and other news. 

• Panhandle Region Facebook page
• Clearwater Region Facebook page