Five-Turkey Rule Clarified

Turkey hunters in Units 1, 2, 3, and 5 in the Panhandle of Idaho are allowed to take five birds per day. Meeting in Sandpoint November 15, the Idaho Fish and Game Commission adopted an addition to the current turkey rules language making it clear that the five turkeys allowed in those units can be taken all in the same day. Otherwise, a one bird per day rule would apply. Five turkeys per day may be taken through the December 15 end of the season. Hunters still may only take a total of five birds in the season. Earlier in the year, the commission approved rules permitting taking five wild turkeys in the four Panhandle units in the fall season beyond the two birds that may be bagged in the rest of Idaho. The tag price was set at $5 for three tags; the other two birds can be taken on tags at the regular general and extra tag prices. Commissioner Tony McDermott of Sagle, sought this action in response to complaints in the Panhandle about a burgeoning turkey population that has been affecting agricultural landowners.