Frequently Asked Questions
We get a lot of questions. We post here answers to questions we're being asked frequently. If you have a question not answered here, please contact us. Urgent questions should be directed to your nearest office. Some answers change over time; please take note of the "answered" date.
Displaying 2601 - 2625 of 3534 questionsA:
At this time, regional personnel are still summarizing data from brood routes conducted in the Clearwater, Magic Valley and Southwest regions. When that data has been summarized, it will be posted online. Look for it within the next month. Like many other years, hunting can vary widely geographically. Idaho is an extremely geographically diverse state. Spring conditions were favorable across much of Idaho during 2012. Persistent drought conditions could impact brood survival. However, reports from folks in the field suggest the population had good production and this fall looks to be promising.answered 8/8/2012
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No, you are not. Muzzleloader-Only Season Any person hunting in a muzzleloader-only season, including controlled hunts, must have in their possession a license with a muzzleloader permit validation. During a muzzleloader-only season, it is illegal to pursue or kill a big game animal with any firearm, muzzleloading pistol, or weapon other than a muzzleloading rifle or musket.answered 8/7/2012
Q: What are the long term plans for the tiger muskie in the alpine lakes north of McCall?
These lakes used be to be great places to take kids hiking and fishing but now seem to be devoid of life other than a few very large tiger muskie that I have seen cruising these lakes. Will this remain indefinitely or will they be removed and native fish reintroduced at some point. I know the point was to control the Brook trout but they were alot of fun to catch. These lakes from the information I could gather are Twin Lakes, Twin Grassy lakes, Corral lake, Granite Lake, Upper Hazard and several others. It is very dissappointing to see this happen to some great fisheries that my family has enjoyed for 30+ years.A:
The tiger muskie plants were part of a fish research project to see if the sterile predators could reduce or eliminate stunted brook trout populations in mnt lakes. The fish wer stocked in 2005 and followed through this summer. They can definately turn a brook trout population around to either eliminate them, it seemed the size of the lake was critical or drastically reduce the number of brook trout and increase individual size of remaining brookies. There are few remaining tiger muskie left and all lakes were restocked with either rainbow or westslope cutthroat trout. Upper Hazrd was left alone, the treatment was partially successful as far as removal. The brook trout there will come back quickly.answered 8/6/2012
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If you were born on January 1, 1975 or later you must take a hunter education class to be able to hunt in Idaho. The archery class does not exempt you from that.answered 8/6/2012
Q: Preseason Salmon Forecast 2012?
Now that all Spring & summer Salmon fishing is over what happened to the preseason forecasts for the Snake River returns? Most are similiar to this from the Northwest Power & Conservation Council. "The 2012 forecast is 314,200fish entering the Columbia — 168,000 Snake River fish (39,100 wild) and 32,600 upper Columbia spring Chinook (2,800 wild), with the remainder of the run returning to mid-Columbia tributaries. That’s nearly 100,000 more than the 2011 run of 221,200.A:
Pre-season we predicted that about 118,000 adult soring/summer Chinook salmon would return to the Snake River basin above Lower Granite Dam in 2012. About 80,000 or about 68% of the pre-season forecast actually returned. While Columbia River fisheries may have caught proportionately slightly more Snake river fish this year than in previous years the vast majority of the diference between forecasted and actual returns is attributable to forecasting error. Fisheries biologists have been struggling for well over a century to find measures of ocean productivity that could be used to predict marine survival of juvenile and immature adult salmon. While we do have some varibales that seem to work in some climate regimes, they fail in others so ideal forecast variables have yet to be discovered.answered 8/6/2012
Q: at Hayden lake there is a runoff what are the rules for getting the fish there
during the summers i have seen lots of fish get trapped in the fields and runoff is there any rules of the number of fish you can keep even if they do have limits in the main lake, just wondering cause most of the fish die in the field behind the dike road there. i also heard you can go into there and net the fish, spear them, even snag them. i see lots of catfish, bass (large and small mouth), perch, trout mainly rainbows and some cutthroats, pike, crappies,A:
General rules apply to the water below the Hayden Lake outlet, so snagging, spearing, and netting are not allowed and limits do apply. It's relatively uncommon to have so much outflow (like we had this year) that large numbers of fish actually leave the lake through the outlet, so we have not established separate "salvage" rules for the area. Also, the land below the dike is private property, so developing special salvage rules for that field would like create a problem for the landowner.answered 8/6/2012
Q: I recently spent about 24h at Forage Lake and only saw one fish rise the entire time. Nor did I see any fish cruising. A 2009 IFG report indicated there grayling and golden trout of 30 cm. Are the fish gone or in deep water?
I hiked into Forage Lake on August 2, 2012 and camped. I expected there to be grayling and golden trout of size and numbers based upon a scientific survey published in 2009 by IFG. Observing the lake from multiple vantage points during the morning, afternoon, and evening, did not indicate that there were any fish present, other than one large rise was noted. I encountered a similar situation in 2003, although I did see and hook one fiish on a fly ( which was lost before landing). Is it possible the fish are no longer present, or that they are holding in very deep water out of sight? I would also note that the main campsite was heavily trashed in 2003 and 2012. In 2012, I bundled together about 30 lbs of garbage and assorted debris into some decaying plastic tarps and Tyvec plastic sheeting that were found at the site. The garbage included fishing line and an unopened bottle of salmon eggs. unfortunately, I was unable to backpack out this large amount of garbage. Thanks.A:
Forage Lake was stocked with golden trout last year as well as 2004 and 2006, so it should have fish in it. It is possible that they were simply in deeper water and you just weren't able to see them, but usually if fish are in a mountain lake, they're fairly obvious. It's very possible that some or most of the fish died in a winterkill. Winterkill can definately happen if a shallow lake is covered by ice for an unusual length of time -- which could have happened this year. Sorry to hear about the garbage. Unfortunately, some people can be real slobs.answered 8/5/2012
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It is online at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/public/licenses/controlledHunts/?getPage=108.answered 8/5/2012
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A person whose name was drawn in an antlered-only controlled deer hunt may not apply for any other controlled antlered-only deer hunt for one year except for the second deer, elk and pronghorn application period and leftover controlled hunt drawings or sales. • For example, a hunter who drew a tag in an antlered-only deer hunt in 2011, cannot apply for another antlered-only deer hunt until 2013, in the first application period. However, they can apply for another antlered deer hunt in the 2012 season during the second application period. • This waiting period also applies to antlered-only controlled elk hunts. • There is no waiting period to apply for any other deer, elk, pronghorn or black bear controlled hunt tags. The one-year waiting period does not apply to controlled hunts with an unlimited number of tags.answered 8/5/2012
Q: Bull Trout Policies
I was under the impression that it is illegal to intentionally target bull trout when fishing, but I came across a post on a fishing forum where members discussed their strategies for targeting Idaho bull trout. The forum members are of the opinion it is perfectly legal to target bull trout, as long as you do not kill them. What is Fish & Game's official policy on this? Thanks.A:
Although, bull trout are listed under the federal Endangered Species Act as "threatened" anglers can still actively fish for them in Idaho. Catch-and-release fishing for bull trout can be great sport given the size bull trout can achieve and their aggressive nature. With that said, before an angler targets bull trout, they need to understand the ramifications of accidentially killing a bull trout while fishing. You could not only be subject to a misdemeanor violation for illegal "take" under Idaho law but proscution in federal court for violation of the Endangered Species Act.answered 8/4/2012
Q: As far as tree squirrels the red pine is protected from hunting but...
As far as tree squirrels the red pine is protected from hunting in state of Idaho, however fox and gray squirrels are they OK to hunt? And what other small game can be hunted year round? the small game seems vague and even dates for rabbits/hares seem contradicting when looked up, Falconry section states different dates then newly revised dates for rabbit/hare?!A:
Some animals are classified as “predators” or as “unprotected” and can be hunted and taken all year. Animals classified as predators in Idaho include coyotes, raccoons, jackrabbits, skunks, weasels, and starling. The most frequently hunted unprotected animals include marmots, fox squirrels, porcupines and Columbian ground squirrels, English sparrows, Eurasian-collared doves, and feral pigeons. These species may be taken in any amounts and at any time by holders of the appropriate valid Idaho hunting, trapping or combination hunting license, provided such taking is not in violation of state, county, or city laws, ordinances or regulations. You can find the snowshoe hare and rabbit seasons at: http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/public/docs/rules/uplandAnimals.pdf. You can find the falconry seasons at: http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/public/docs/rules/uplandFalconryCrows.pdf.answered 8/4/2012
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A blowgun would be a legal method of take for upland game animals (rabbits according to established seasons), forest grouse (according to established seasons), unprotected and predatory wildlife, and bullfrogs and unprotected nongame fish (during established game fish seasons only). A hunting license is required for game animals; a fishing license is required for unprotected game fish.answered 8/4/2012
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There are several reasons for rainbow trout being the most stocked resident fish in Idaho. *1) surveys show the majority of anglers that fish in Idaho prefer catching rainbow trout; 2) rainbow trout eggs are readily available for commercial/conservation, large-scale production; 3) our fish hatcheries are located on water sources that are conducive to growing coldwater fish species such as rainbow trout; and 4) we have ways of creating sterile rainbow trout in our hatchery system that won't genetically compete with wild trout species where we stock rainbow trout. *2011 IDFG Random Angler Opinion Survey.answered 8/3/2012
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The list is online at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/public/licenses/controlledHunts/?getPage=108.answered 8/3/2012
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There are risks and potential safety hazards when stopping on many roadways and highways. Motorists choosing to stop and retrieve or move wildlife on any road assume all responsibility for their actions should an accident result due to them stopping to retrieve or move wildlife of any kind. Motorists stopping on any road need to consider sight distance for oncoming traffic, shoulder width, weather, traffic volume and type (trucks and semis) along with other issues prior to stopping. If it is unsafe to stop or would jeopardize other motorist’s safety – do not stop. If you have questions concerning non-emergency stopping on roads and highways, contact your local or state transportation officials or Idaho State Police.answered 8/2/2012
Q: What are the non game fish I can spear/bow fish?
There is no where on the IFG that I can find a non game fish identification chart. I see the game fish identification guide but that does not help me be 100% confident I am hunting non game fish. Please help so I know I am not breaking any laws.A:
It's easier if I first list the game fish. They are all the trout species, all the salmon species, grayling, whitefish, cisco, crappie, perch, bass, all catfish/bullheads, sunfish, sturgeon, northern pike, tiger muskie, walleye, sauger, burbot, bullfrogs, and crayfish. That essentially leaves you with suckers, carp, minnows, and chub. Suckers and carp are probably the only nongame fish you see in shallow water in substantial numbers. Look on the internet to see pictures of both species. I strongly suggest that before striking out on your own fishing with a spear or bow, you go with an experience archery fisherman. They can show you where you're most likely to find carp and suckers, what they look like under water, and how to aim (water distorts your view of fish seen from the surface). This can be a fun way to prepare for the fall archery season.answered 8/2/2012
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Please contact the Regional Fisheries Manager at the Southwest Regional Office via phone 208-465-8465 ext. 301answered 8/2/2012
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The list is online at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/public/licenses/controlledHunts/?getPage=108.answered 8/2/2012
Q: senior big game tag cost
I have a life time "hunting" licence and just bought a "disable" fishing licence. I turn 65 on the 6th of August (in 4 days). The regulations say in order to buy big game tags at the "senior" price you need to posses a senior combination licence, My question... Can I buy my big game tags at the reduced senior price, after August 6??? thanksA:
The cost of tags is tied to the specific type of license you have. If you have a senior combination license or a Disabled Veteran's license you can get tags at a reduced rate. Please contact the Idaho License Department at 208-334-3700 to see what you can do to straighten this out.answered 8/2/2012
Q: Where do i get a new hunter certificate card?
I have searched the home page and licenses catagories, and went threw hunting.A:
You can contact any Fish and Game office. They have access to hunter education records and can make a new card for you. Offices are listed in all of our rules books.answered 7/31/2012
Q: Where can I get the latest Elk population numbers by zone?
I'd like a copy of the most recent elk survey count by zone in the State. Is this information on your site somewhere?A:
Specific zone information, including total numbers of bulls, cows, and calves in each survey can be found in our annual surveys and inventory reports on elk. The 2010 report is available on our website: https://research.idfg.idaho.gov/wildlife/Wildlife%20Technical%20Reports/Elk%20Statewide%20PR10.pdf The 2011 report will be available soon.answered 7/31/2012
Q: Is there a law on how early you can set up a treestand?
I was just wondering, I have seen alot of treestands up year roundA:
There is not a specific IDFG law stating when you can set up a tree stand. However, land managers/owners may have such restrictions. IDFG WMA rules do not allow permanent tree stands. Idaho Code states: To construct blinds, pits, platforms, or tree stands where the soil is disturbed, trees are cut or altered, and artificial fasteners, such as wire, rope, or nails are used. All blinds shall be available to the public on a “first-come - first-served” basis. Portable manufactured blinds and tree stands are allowed but may not be left overnight.answered 7/31/2012
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A nonresident season fishing license costs $98.25. It is valid from date of sale through December 31. Nonresident juniors (17 or younger) can get a season fishing license for $21.75.answered 7/31/2012
Q: I heard that there are tiger muskies in the Payette between Horsehoe Bend and Banks. Is this true?
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There is a extremely small probability, but it is highly, highly unlikely. Tiger musky have been stocked in Little Payette Lake and Lake Cascade. For a tiger musky to make it to Horseshoe Bend, it would have to pass through a dam and move downstream through several class IV-V rapids. Furthermore, tiger musky are ill-equipped to live in high gradient rivers. The Payette River in this area more likely in inhabitated by rainbow trout, whitefish, northern pikeminnow, and other native fishes.answered 7/30/2012