Idaho’s over-the-counter tags and controlled hunts give hunters access to some of the best deer hunting in the West. Hunters can pursue both mule deer and white-tailed deer, largely on public land. Mule deer are widespread in the central mountains and southern deserts of Idaho, while white-tailed deer dominate the northern forested areas of Idaho.
Every fall hunters eagerly look forward to the annual deer hunt. This yearly tradition is so important, hunter surveys consistently tell Fish and Game they are willing to forgo larger bucks for the opportunity to hunt every year. Creating a variety of opportunities guides wildlife managers’ decisions. Fortunately they have the resources to provide not only diverse general seasons that allow hunters to harvest a buck each year, but also high-quality trophy controlled hunts for hunters to pursue larger mature bucks.