Apply Early for Controlled Hunts

The application period for this fall's deer, elk, pronghorn and black bear controlled hunts starts Friday, May 1, and runs through June 5. Hunters may apply for controlled hunts at any hunting and fishing license vendor, or Fish and Game office. They may also apply with a credit card by calling 1-800-55HUNT5 or 1-800-824-3729; or online at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov. An additional fee is charged for telephone and Internet applications. Resident application fees are $6.25, and nonresident application fees are $14.75. Hunters must have a 2009 Idaho hunting license to apply. Apply Early, Win Cash Hunters who apply early not only avoid the last-minute rush, but they have a chance to win cash. The Idaho Department of Fish and Game's annual early application contest for 2009 for those applying for controlled hunts will be handing out one $550 prize and one $450 prize to two lucky winners. Hunters who get their applications in by May 12 will be eligible to win $550 in the May 15 drawing. Those who get their applications in by May 19 will be eligible to win $450 in the May 22 drawing. Applications in by May 12 also will be eligible for the May 22 drawing, except for the winner of the May 15 drawing. Others not applying for a controlled hunt, may submit their name, age, address, and telephone number on a 3- by 5-inch piece of plain paper to: IDFG Early Application Contest, P.O. Box 25, Boise, ID 83707. The drawing is funded by Outdoor Central, a part of Active Network, and sponsored by the Idaho Fish and Wildlife Foundation. The drawing encourages hunters to apply early and helps avoid last-minute congestion on license vendor computer terminals.