Frequently Asked Questions

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Idaho's steelhead are rainbow trout that, like salmon, migrate to the ocean and return to fresh water to spawn. They are classified as A-run or B-run, based on their size and ocean life history.A-run steelhead are usually found in the Snake and Salmon rivers. They return from the ocean earlier in the year, usually June through August, and they most often return after spending one year in the ocean. Because they return early in the year and because they usually come back after only one year in the ocean, average A-run steelhead weigh 4 to 6 pounds and are generally 23 to 26 inches long.The B-run steelhead most often return to the Clearwater River, but some return to tributaries in the Salmon River. These fish usually spend two years in the ocean, and start their migration to Idaho later in the summer or fall of the year, usually late August or September. Because of the extra year and the extra summer of growing in the ocean, they return as much bigger fish. Average B-run steelhead weigh between 10 and 13 pounds and are 31 to 34 inches long.Steelhead grow very large when they spend a third year in the ocean. These steelhead are usually larger than 37 inches and often weigh more than 20 pounds. The Idaho state record steelhead was 30 pounds and was caught in the Clearwater River in 1973.

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Permits from the director of Fish and Game are required to reduce the danger of introducing non-native fish into waters with an existing fishery. Such introductions can destroy an otherwise healthy fishery. Transporting live fish can also inadvertently introduce unwanted hitchhikers such as invasive snails and other critters along with aquatic weeds that spread rapidly and destroy native aquatic habitat.

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The rule book says: "In big game seasons restricted to short-range weapons, it is unlawful for hunters to use any weapon other than a muzzleloader, archery equipment, crossbow, or a shotgun using slugs or shot of size #00 buck or larger." The book further states that a muzzleloader must be at least .45 caliber for deer, pronghorn, or mountain lion, and at least .50 caliber for elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, or black bear.Handguns are not included as short-range weapons.

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Yes, one new rule does apply to crossbows. Earlier this year the Idaho Fish and Game Commission changed the rules for muzzleloader weapons and archery. The new regulations allow up to 85 percent let-off for compound bows, arrow and bolt weights down to 300 grains and increase minimum arrow length to 24 inches from 12 inches. The new let-off and arrow-length rules don't apply to crossbows.

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Successful applicants for spring turkey and bear hunts will be notified by postcard by March 10. You can also check your status through the Idaho Fish and Game Website: http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/.

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Ice fishing on reservoirs and lakes can turn those long winter days into great outdoor adventures. But always check the ice thickness and condition before venturing over deep water. Anglers need a minimum of 3 to 4 inches clear, solid ice to support their weight. But 8 to 10 inches are needed to support a snow machine or an ATV. Most lakes and reservoirs are open year round. When the weather is cold enough, ice on these waters can be safe and provide good fishing for yellow perch and trout and other fish. Consult the Idaho fishing rules brochure for seasons, limits and restrictions.

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Fish and Game requires a report only from hunters that harvest a bear. Successful bear hunters are required to present the skull and hide of their bear to a Fish and Game conservation officer, regional office, or official check point for removal and retention of a premolar tooth and to have the hide tagged with an official state export tag. This has to be done within 10 days of harvest of the bear.

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The application period for spring turkey controlled hunts starts January 15 and runs through February 15. That's also the time to apply for spring black bear controlled hunts. Spring turkey and spring black bear seasons start April 15-some controlled hunts open later. Leftover tags for spring turkey and bear controlled hunts go on sale April 1.

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There is no risk to hunters of getting this disease from harvested ducks. The disease is a fungal infection and is not contagious to humans or between birds. It is a localized outbreak. What probably happened was the birds found a pile of very moldy grain, fed and then returned to a nearby roost site where they died. As with all game, hunters should wear latex gloves when cleaning game, and it should be thoroughly cooked before eating.

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The receipt for resident big game tags is offered as a convenience, so you only have to make one purchase, which is especially if you are buying a Sportsman's Package. Resident deer and elk tags do not go on sale until August 1, however. You can redeem your receipt at that time for a specific tag. If you want an elk zone where the total number of tags has been capped, it is best in most cases to be in line for it on the first day of sale, August 1. Actual tags for resident hunters of bear, mountain lion, turkey, and antelope are available on December 1.

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Yes. It's always a good idea to wear hunter-orange while hunting. All upland bird and upland game hunters are required to wear hunter orange during pheasant season while hunting within the boundaries of wildlife management areas where pheasants are stocked, regardless of land ownership.

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Yes. It's always a good idea to wear hunter-orange while hunting. All upland bird and upland game hunters are required to wear hunter orange during pheasant season while hunting within the boundaries of wildlife management areas where pheasants are stocked, regardless of land ownership.