Frequently Asked Questions

We get a lot of questions. We post here answers to questions we're being asked frequently. If you have a question not answered here, please contact us. Urgent questions should be directed to your nearest office. Some answers change over time; please take note of the "answered" date.

Displaying 126 - 150 of 3534 questions

A: 

Waste laws only apply to game animals, except black bears, mountain lions and gray wolves.  These laws also apply to all game birds and game fish.  A complete list of Idaho’s wildlife and their classification can be found in the Idaho Administrative Procedures Act (IDAPA) 13.01.06.100. Because jackrabbits are classified as predators, they are not covered under waste laws.  Remember though, Cottontail rabbits are classified as upland game animals; Therefore seasons, bag limits and waste laws apply.
answered 3/25/2016

Q: Bighorn sheep regulations

I was always told that a legal bighorn ram in Idaho was a "full curl" ram, but when I look in the regulations, I see no mention of this requirement. I would like to start applying for bighorn hunts and would like some clarification of this rule. Thank you.

A: 

We used to require a ram be 3/4 curl or better but that rule changed several years ago.  Biologists looked at harvest rates and their potential impacts on age structure and decided that if a hunter wished to harvest any legal ram rather than a mature ram, more older and larger rams would survive passing on their genes to offspring.  Also, if a hunter wished to use his "once in a lifetime" opportunity on a smaller ram, then they shouldn't be penalized and be required to miss that opportunity if it had no negative impacts to the population of bighorns. 
answered 3/25/2016

Q: Where can I find a few deer and elk sheds in the magic valley or up around Hailey?

I am looking for a fairly easy place to find some deer and elk sheds. I am a disabled veteran and don't have a whole lot of mobility. I live in the Twin Falls area and would go north to the Hailey area or East to the Burley area or even just up in the South Hills. I don't want anyones secret canyon, or anything like that, just an area where they winter and I might stuble on a couple of sheds. Thanks

A: 

Good Morning, Sorry for the delay on responding to your question.There are quite a few places I can think of where you could possibly find some shed antlers. Mule deer start dropping their antlers in January/Early February. Because most of the deer antlers have been on the ground for quite some times, the easy ones have probably already been picked up. However, there are places where deer wintered in heavy sagebrush cover, where I am sure you could still pick up a few antlers.For deer - I would go to the sagebrush flats on the Bennett Mt. front. Like I said, I would look in places that have heavy sagebrush, where antlers cannot be easily seen, such as the flats around Clover Creek, Bennett Creek, Teapot Dome and Pioneer Reservoir. I have picked up many deer antlers in all of those areas, late into the summer. Elk antlers are going to be a bit more difficult, as elk normally winter quite a ways off the beaten path. However, some easier places to find antlers (where elk have wintered) are the Picabo Hills, Fish Creek (outside of Carey), and Browns Bench (west of Salm on Falls Reservoir. Hopefully some of these places help, and good luck! John Magic Valley RegionLandowner/Sportsmen Coordinator
answered 3/24/2016

Q: STEELHEAD

HOW MANY ON AVERAGE STEELHEAD RETURN TO THE SAWTOOTH HATCHERY EVERY YEAR. HOW MANY NATIVE STEELHEAD DO YOU THINK ARE IN THE STANLEY AREA.

A: 

On an average year, 2000-3000 steelhead return to Sawtooth Fish Hatchery. We typically see fewer than 100 natural steelhead at the Sawtooth weir.
answered 3/24/2016

Q: Please plant some trout between Minidoka and Milner dams in the river, K2 park would be a good start in Burley.

Could Idaho Power's catfish planting be changed to "Trout"? We have had enough catfish... Thanks

A: 

To whom it concerns, We appreciate your recommendation to stock Trout in Milner Reservoir; however, water temperatures are typically unsuitable for rainbow trout survival in the Milner Reservoir pool. Stocked trout that pass through the Minidoka Dam do not persist much downstream.  We have documented water temperatures that are not suitable for rainbow trout. If you haven't tried it yet, consider fishing the Minidoka bypass on the South Side.  There is good access and word has it some great trout fishing.
answered 3/24/2016

A: 

No birds may be shot without a license. Unprotected non-native species, such as European Starlings and Eurasian Collared-doves, may be taken year-round by those possessing a valid hunting license.
answered 3/22/2016

A: 

Not from the wild.  Only if you can prove it was offspring of a magpie raised in captivity.  That typically requires a bill of sale from a licensed captive animal farm.
answered 3/22/2016

Q: Does the boise river have bull trout in it?

I know the SF, the middle, and north fork all have bull trout in the but I'm wondering about the main in town stretch. Someone recently told me they caught one a while back here and was wondering if that was possible? Also what is the largest rainbow and brown trout taken out of the in town stretch?

A: 

Thanks for your question about Bull Trout and the Boise River. Bull Trout are now mostly extinct below Lucky Peak dam. It is possible (but very unlikely) that a Bull Trout could be flushed downstream through Arrowrock and Lucky Peak dams and be caught in the lower Boise River. Bull Trout have not been documented in any surveys for probably over 50 years. It’s not impossible that you caught a Bull Trout, but it would be very rare! I’m not sure what the largest Brown Trout ever caught has been, since we don’t keep angler records for individual waters. However, population surveys have occasionally found some rare Brown Trout in the 25-27 inch range. Jake Cecil caught a very large Rainbow Trout in 2007 directly below Lucky Peak dam. That fish was 30” long, with a 25” girth, and was estimated at over 23lbs. That is a very unusual trout for that stretch of the Boise River. Typically, anglers might expect to see Rainbow Trout up to 25 inches, but a rainbow over 22” is exceptional. 
answered 3/22/2016

Q: Motorized hunting rule

My question is similar in nature to the question found here: https://fishandgame.idaho.gov/content/question/motorized-vehicle-use-exc... Except I'd like to ask about meat removal. Is it acceptable to shuttle meat on an open trail in a hunting motorized restricted area? Similar to the guy above I understand that I can ride in and then begin my hunt. Just curious if once I'm way back in there if the meat has to be carried out or if I can ride out. Not sure if it would classify as an aid to hunting or not? Thank you

A: 

There are several exceptions to the Motorized Hunting Rule (page 102 of the 2015-2016 Big Game Seasons and Rules).  One of these state: Hunters may use a motorized vehicle to retrieve downed game if such travel is allowed by the land owner or manager.  This would apply to both public and private land.  In the case of public land, the road or trail used to retrieve downed game must be open for motorized travel.  Exceptions to the MHR do not allow travel prohibited by land owners or managers.  Also, riders of the motorized vehicle could not be engaged in the activity of hunting as defined in Idaho Code Section 36-202(j) during the retrieval of downed game.   
answered 3/21/2016

Q: Does Fish and Game maintain a land disposal list?

I was recently reading a news story about Black lake and this paragraph caught my eye, " The properties have been on Fish and Game’s disposal list since 1990." If a list exists how can one inquire about purchasing land from the department of fish and game? Thank you for your time.

A: 

Hi, Yes, the Department of Fish and Game does maintain a list of surplus properties.  These are properties that the Department has determined no longer aid the agency in fulfilling its mission.  All such properties are reviewed and approved for surplus by our Lands Committee, Director, and Commission. By Idaho statute, the Department of Fish and Game Commission, not the Department, has the authority to purchase or exchange lands.  But neither the Department or Commission has the authority to sell lands.  All sales of Commission properties must be done via the State Land Board process and its approval.  So for any sale of IDFG properties, they must first be approved for sale by the Land Board, offered for sale to public agencies by the Board, offered for sale at auction, and then offered for sale to any interested party making an offer. As of now, IDFG has several properties approved for sale by the Land Board but which did not sell via auction.  These and other surplus properties that have yet to be approved for sale can be identified by contacting Gregg Servheen at 208-287-2712 or via email gregg.servheen@idfg.idaho.gov. Thank you for your interest and question.  
answered 3/20/2016

Q: Non resident disabled veterans license

Can I email my proof of disability to you? I have scanned the document with copy of my drivers license. Thank you, Brett Wanner Army Veteran.

A: 

You can e-mail your proof of disability, letter on Veterans Affairs letterhead showing combined service connected disability percentage, to licenses@idfg.idaho.gov.
answered 3/19/2016

Q: Cancelled weapons permit. Does your hunter education course online qualify for this permit?

Does your hunter education class qualify me with the Ada county sheriff department for my permit for a cancelled weapon?

A: 

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game hunter education certification course does not include any handgun lessons or safety information when carrying a concealed firearm. It best to contact your local Sherrif department for current concealed carry permit requirements and current courses that teach concealed carry safety.
answered 3/17/2016

Q: Is it legal to take a photo of fishing license to show proof of purchase?

With todays age of personnel electronics. Would it be legal to use a photo on my phone to show proof of purchase for a hunting or fishing license? Since we can print our license at home if we purchase online. And is IFG looking into having an app. that will show proof?

A: 

Thank you for your question. Yes, you may take a picture of your license and store it on your mobile device as proof of having a license. We do not have any plans to build an app for licensing. However, we do have a mobile optimized website and those who purchase their license via a mobile device now download their license to their mobile device rather than receiving a printed license. Please contact us again if you have additional questions.  
answered 3/15/2016

Q: Ground Squirrel/Whistle Pig

Can you shoot Whistle Pigs without a hunting licence?

A: 

A hunting license IS required to hunt or take any wildlife in Idaho, including unprotected and predatory wildlife. Most ground squirrels are classified as unprotected wildlife and can be hunted by persons holding a valid hunting license.  Be aware, there are several species of ground squirrel that are protected. We recommend you call the regional office near the area you wish to hunt prior to hunting. See the maps and descriptions at the following link for locations of huntable ground squirrels: https://idfg.idaho.gov/hunt/ground-squirrel
answered 3/15/2016

Q: Permit question

What is the difference between three day License and permit for $37.50 opposed to the steelhead permit for $25.75? If they both have a three day license then what is the benefit for the more expensive permit?

A: 

There is a difference between the Steelhead Permit and the 3-day Salmon/Steelhead.   The 3-day Salmon/Steelhead is a 3-day Fishing License with a Salmon Permit and a Steelhead Permit.   The Steelhead Permit cannot be purchased unless you have a Nonresident Fishing LIcense.  As of the date this question is being answered (3/16/16) the total cost for a Nonresident Fishing License and the Steelhead Permit would be $124.00.  These items would be good for the calendar year instead of just 3 days.
answered 3/15/2016

A: 

IDFG sometimes implements a Controlled Hunt with an Unlimited number of tags as an intermediate step between a general season hunt and a controlled hunt with a limited number of tags when there is a concern about total hunter numbers and harvest  in the hunt area. If hunting pressure is too high in a general season hunt, we may propose implementing an "Unlimited Controlled Hunt" in that hunt area. The benefit of this approach is that all hunters who really want to hunt in that area and commit to it by applying for that hunt during the controlled hunt application period, WILL draw the tag. This approach is intended to reduce the total number of hunters in the hunt area compared to the number who would hunt there under a general season hunt--after the controlled hunt drawing, hunters are unable to decide to purchase a tag for the area later in the season as they could do for a general season hunt. Holding an "Unlimited Controlled Hunt" also avoids implementation the other limitations that come along with a controlled hunt, such as, a 1 year waiting period after drawing a tag for an antlered deer, and a limitation of a maximum of 10% of the tags issued to nonresidents. If the unlimited controlled hunt is still too popular (more hunters/harvest than the population can sustain and remain within objectives), we would need to consider limiting the number of tags issued for that controlled hunt to some reduced number.
answered 3/1/2016

Q: Suppresors for big game

Can you use suppressors to hunt big game in Idaho?

A: 

There are no rules regulating suppressors, sometimes referred to as “silencers”, and big game hunting in Idaho   As long as the owner has complied with all federal regulations regarding the possession of suppressors and as long as the firearm does not violate any of the other big game weapon restrictions, it would be legal for the taking of big game.
answered 2/29/2016

Q: Who do I contact for detailed information about the existence of Bull Trout in a South Fork of the Clearwater River tributary?

I am trying to find details on the study of Bull Trout in the North and South forks of Dump Creek. This creek is a tributary of the South Fork of the Clear Water River. The head waters in in the Cove area South west of the river and empty into the river about 1/4 mile down stream of the McCallister picnic area. I would like to know when a study was done on this particular stream and what the findings were in regards to Bull Trout inhabiting the stream. Thank You Howard Thompson

A: 

Joe Dupont is our Regional Fisheries Manager in Lewiston and is the person who can answer questions about the Clearwater River Basin.  He can be reached at 208-799-5010. What may be faster is to access our study archives located on our Department webpage.  Go to fishandgame.idaho.gov; click on the "Science" tab; click on "Fisheries."  There are several filters you can use to narrow the area of your search. Typically, we don't conduct surveys for a single species of fish - rather, we look at a measured stream distance and document the entire fish community and collect fish density and size information.  All this information will be captured in the technical fisheries reports at the above listed website.
answered 2/29/2016

Q: Do you want to be notified of dead elk finds?

I understand that I can keep the bones and antlers of any elk I find that presumably died of natural causes with no reporting requirements . However, does the Fish & Game have any interest in wanting to know about it? On Saturday I found a dead 6x bull that had probably died 2-3 weeks ago.

A: 

You can only keep antlers from found animals that have died naturally.  If you have any suspicion that the animal died by something other than natural causes, we especially would like to hear about it.  You can keep animals that died from injury incurred by vehicle by filling out a roadkill permit on our website by clicking on the icon at the bottom of the page. We would be interested in knowing about dying elk and what caused the death as well, be it starvation, predation, or other cause so letting us know where the animal is would be helpful too. Also, by letting us know you would clear yourself of any suspicion surrounding the cause of death and your possession of the animal.  Thank you for your concern and assistance. Online report forms: Online report sighting of any wildlife in Idaho (dead or alive) Report roadkill or salvage Submit report (or call) about suspicious activity
answered 2/29/2016

Q: Nonresident gun carry

Do i have to obtain some sort of licence to hunt rabbits, etc., on public ground?

A: 

Yes you need to have  a current hunting license to hunt rabbits in Idaho.
answered 2/28/2016

Q: coyote hunting with a crossbow

Is it legal to use a crossbow to hunt coyote's?

A: 

Yes, coyotes are classified as predatory wildlife in the state of Idaho and may be taken in any numbers, year round, and with crossbows, by the holders of the appropriate hunting license. The weapons restrictions that exist for big game do not apply to predatory or unprotected wildlife.   Josh Royse
answered 2/27/2016

A: 

To the best of our knowledge, this will be a better year for fish in Little Camas.  With that said, we will procede with stocking as requested unless/until water managers indicate conditions are likely to deteriorate. Conditions in irrigation reservoirs are often very unpredictable and are often influenced by seasonal precipitation and water demand.  We suggest you contact the Regional Office (Doug Megargle 208-324-4359) as the stock date nears to confirm stocking is going as planned. Current Stocking Schedule: May 3,000 catchables (12 inch) - a reduction in numbers, but an increase in fish size May 90,000 fingerlings (4-5 inch) September 30,000 fingerlings (4-5 inch)   Thanks for your question.
answered 2/27/2016

Q: Are coyotes a threat to my children?

We hear coyotes (we are assuming) at night and are wondering if we should worry about them during the day with our children playing outside. Would it be likely they would come around and try to harm our children? Children are 3 and younger. We are in Parma. Thanks.

A: 

Coyotes are primarily rodent hunters but occassionally take bigger game (fawns, rabbits, etc.).  They have learned to live near humans because they can live on garbage, cat food left out, cats and other items associated with humans.  Attacks on humans are extremely rare.  They are heavily hunted and trapped here.  Hearing coyotes at night is quite common in Idaho near homes on the outskirts of cities and we haven't had any issues with them.  However, if you begin seeing coyotes near your home or see them acting overly familiar, curious, or habituated to your home and humans, you might be more careful with your small children.  Coyotes are considered predators and are unprotected in Idaho.  Should they get too close and become a nuiscance, you can contact a local trapper or predator control person or you can shoot the coyote if there are no ordinances that restrict shooting in your area.
answered 2/26/2016

Q: Main area for fishing

Hello I want to know how to find the main areas for fishing? Is there a map or site

A: 

Unfortunately our Fishing Planner, which houses, our map center is temporarily unavailable. In the interim, please see the "Fishing" tab on our website. From this page you can find our Family Fishing Waters section, our Angler Guide section, fish stocking and much more. Some of the secions contain maps/locations for fishing in Idaho.
answered 2/24/2016

Q: How can I tell what is private land and what is public?

We would like to go to Sinker Creek Lake but some sites say that it is on private land. How will we know what is private and what is public?

A: 

Please check out the interactive map center on the IDFG website for a detailed map.  After you open the map center, zoom to the area you are interested in.  On the upper left hand side, select turn layers on/off. Scroll down throught the selections and turn on land management status.  This will display property ownership in different colors. This reservoir's shoreline is about 99% private and 1% public (BLM).  Technically, you could legally access the 1% that is public if you had a good GPS unit and a map and if the reservoir was near full pool. However, I would not recommend that anyone try this as the margin for error is small and the fishing is not likely worth it due to recent drought conditions.    
answered 2/23/2016