Apply Early for Controlled Hunts, Win Big Bucks

The application period for this fall's deer, elk, pronghorn and black bear controlled hunts starts May 1, and runs through June 5. Hunters may apply for controlled hunts at any hunting and fishing license vendor, Fish and Game office; 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. (A new fee bill has passed the state Legislature that may affect nonresident fees. It has not yet been signed into law.) Hunters must have a 2009 Idaho hunting license to apply. But 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 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.