Under a rule adopted by the Fish and Game Commission that is now in effect, there is no longer a statewide requirement for using diverters on snares for trapping gray wolves. However, snares must be equipped with either a break-away device or cable stop incorporated within the top loop of the snare.
As a provision of the rule, the Idaho Fish and Game Commission can still require diverters in local areas to reduce bycatch of non-target species if deemed necessary, but at this time, no such local requirements have been established.
The rule was publicly scoped on Fish and Game’s website on two separate occasions, in addition to a negotiated rulemaking meeting during 2019.
The changes to wolf trapping requirements can be found in the 2nd Edition Idaho Big Game 2020 Seasons & Rules, which will be posted on the Fish and Game website in early April and available in print by the latter part of April.