Idaho Hunting Seasons, 2023-2024

Idaho isn’t just known for its potatoes — it also has prosperous hunting. The Gem State offers plenty of hunting to keep avid hunters happy, including deer, elk, bear and mountain lion. Small game are aplenty.

Hunting in Idaho is managed by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. For more information on purchasing licenses, specific hunting regulations or other details, visit the department’s website.

Idaho Deer Seasons

General SeasonSept. 15-Nov. 9**
Archery SeasonAug. 30-Dec. 19
Muzzleloader SeasonAug. 30-Dec. 1

**Season dates vary by zone and take method. For more information, refer to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website.

Idaho Elk Seasons

General SeasonAug. 1-Dec. 31**

**Elk season dates vary extensively by zone and take method. Refer to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game for additional information on legal season hunting.


Idaho Pronghorn Seasons

Controlled Hunt SeasonsSept. 25-Dec. 31**

Idaho Black Bear Seasons

General SeasonAug. 30-Oct. 31**
April 1-June 30**

**Season dates vary by zone. No hunter can take more than one black bear, and trapping, snaring or capturing bears in any manner is illegal.

Idaho Mountain Lion Seasons

General SeasonAug. 30-June 30**

*Dates vary greatly region and type of animal since Idaho relies on wildlife management units to control hunting and populations. Many of Idaho’s big game hunts are managed, controlled hunts to prevent overpopulation; these hunts require specialty permits. For specific details on hunting dates and regulations in your area, visit the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website.


Idaho Turkey Seasons

Fall General SeasonAug. 30-Jan. 31**
Spring Youth HuntTBD
Spring General SeasonTBD

**Season dates vary by zone

Idaho Small Game Seasons

Cottontail Rabbit and Snowshoe HareAug. 30-March 31
California and Bobwhite QuailSept. 17-Jan. 31
Chukar and Gray PartridgeSept. 17-Jan. 31
Red SquirrelAug. 30-March 31

**Season dates vary by zone for pheasant hunting.

Bag limits, special seasons and hunting regulations for Idaho hunting seasons do vary based on animal and seasons. For more information on obtaining licenses, permits and regulations, visit the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website.