The clearwater region of Idaho Fish and Game is seeking to enroll new properties in the Access Yes Program to expand hunting/fishing opportunities throughout the region. Access Yes! is a program designed to improve hunting/fishing access on private land or increase access to public land if private landholdings limit travel routes. The Clearwater Region currently has six Access Yes! properties which includes one youth-only area. We are interested in continuing to expand this program and create more hunting/fishing opportunities for sportsmen.The general sign-up period for Access Yes! is currently open and runs until March 1, 2020
Opportunities that IDFG focuses on with regards to Access Yes! include: Big Game, Upland Game Birds, Small Game, Waterfowl, Fishing, and Trapping. The Clearwater Region is especially interested in expanding upland game bird hunting opportunities, but we accept all applications from landowners interested in allowing hunting access on their land. Landowners decide how much access their properties can support (e.g. # hunters/day) and provide restrictions such as vehicle travel on improved roads only, safety/no shooting zones, and other areas sportsmen should avoid (e.g. barns, equipment storage, etc.) while hunting.
Landowners can also be financially compensated for allowing public hunting access either through direct payments or habitat enhancement projects through the Habitat Improvement Program. If landowners do not desire manage access themselves, IDFG can enroll properties in our online sign-up program to handle enrollment logistics. The typical Access Yes enrollment process includes: 1) Bid submission by landowners, 2) Bids are assessed by the Sportsman Review Committee (group of local hunters) based on their opportunities/levels of access they provide and desired compensation, 3) Contract signing by landowners (typical contracts are 1 or 3-year enrollments). If you or anyone you know is interested in participating in the Access Yes program, contact the IDFG-Clearwater Region Office at 208-799-5010.
