Idaho is a great place to hunt and fish, with the natural beauty of the state’s forests and lakes, it's easy to understand why this is such a popular pastime. Before you can take part in either activity, however, you must obtain the proper licenses. In this article, we will take a look at the different types of hunting and fishing licenses available in Idaho, as well as the rules and regulations that apply. We’ll also discuss the costs and explain how to apply for a license.
Types of Hunting Licenses in Idaho
In Idaho, there are a variety of hunting licenses available. Each license has its own set of restrictions, eligibility requirements and cost. The types of licenses available include:
- Youth Hunting License: This license is available to those aged 12-15 years old. It gives them the right to hunt game birds and small game. There is no fee for this license.
- Small Game License: This is a basic hunting license that allows the holder to hunt small game such as rabbits, squirrels and grouse. The cost for this license is $13.25.
- Big Game License: This license allows the holder to hunt big game such as deer, elk and moose. The cost for this license is $30.75.
- Combination License: This combination license gives the holder the right to hunt both small game and big game. The cost for this license is $54.00.
- Multi-Year License: This license gives the holder the right to hunt for multiple years without having to renew their license. The cost for this license is $54.00 per year.
Types of Fishing Licenses in Idaho
In Idaho, there are also a variety of fishing licenses available. These include:
- Youth Fishing License: This license is available to those aged 12-15 years old. It gives them the right to fish in public waters. There is no fee for this license.
- Resident Fishing License: This license gives the holder the right to fish for both warm and cold water species in public waters. The cost for this license is $19.50.
- Non-Resident Fishing License: This license gives the holder the right to fish for both warm and cold water species in public waters. The cost for this license is $50.00.
- Multi-Year Fishing License: This license gives the holder the right to fish for multiple years without having to renew their license. The cost for this license is $19.50 per year.
Rules and Regulations for Hunting and Fishing in Idaho
In addition to obtaining the proper licenses, there are also a variety of rules and regulations that apply to hunting and fishing in Idaho. These include:
- All hunters must wear a visible hunter orange garment or cap at all times when hunting game birds and small game.
- All hunters must have a valid Idaho hunting license in their possession at all times when hunting.
- All hunters must follow all state and federal laws and regulations when hunting.
- All fishermen must obtain the proper licenses before fishing in any public water.
- All fishermen must follow all state and federal laws and regulations when fishing.
- All fisherman must adhere to the daily bag limits for each species of fish.
- All fishermen must release any undersized or non-game fish that are caught.
How to Apply for a Hunting or Fishing License in Idaho
If you are interested in obtaining a hunting or fishing license in Idaho, then the process is fairly straightforward. You can apply online, by mail or in person at any of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game offices. Here is a step-by-step guide to applying:
- Visit the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website and select the type of license you wish to apply for.
- Complete the online application form, including all required information.
- Pay the applicable license fee.
- If applying in person, bring your completed form and payment to an Idaho Department of Fish and Game office.
- If applying by mail, send your completed form and payment to the address provided.
- Once your application and payment have been received, you will receive your license in the mail.
Cost of Hunting and Fishing Licenses in Idaho
The cost of hunting and fishing licenses in Idaho varies depending on the type of license you are applying for. Here is a breakdown of the costs for each type of license:
- Youth Hunting License: No fee
- Small Game License: $13.25
- Big Game License: $30.75
- Combination License: $54.00
- Multi-Year License: $54.00 per year
- Youth Fishing License: No fee
- Resident Fishing License: $19.50
- Non-Resident Fishing License: $50.00
- Multi-Year Fishing License: $19.50 per year
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of a hunting license in Idaho?
The cost of a hunting license in Idaho varies depending on the type of license you are applying for. The cost for a Small Game License is $13.25, a Big Game License is $30.75, a Combination License is $54.00, and a Multi-Year License is $54.00 per year.
Do I need a fishing license to fish in Idaho?
Yes, in order to fish in any public waters in Idaho, you must obtain the proper fishing license. There are a variety of licenses available, including Resident Fishing Licenses, Non-Resident Fishing Licenses, and Multi-Year Fishing Licenses.
What is the minimum age to obtain a hunting license in Idaho?
The minimum age to obtain a hunting license in Idaho is 12 years old. For those aged 12-15 years old, there is a Youth Hunting License available with no fee.
Do I need to wear hunter orange when hunting in Idaho?
Yes, all hunters must wear a visible hunter orange garment or cap at all times when hunting game birds and small game in Idaho.
What are the bag limits for fishing in Idaho?
The bag limits for fishing in Idaho vary depending on the species of fish being caught. These limits can be found on the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website.
What are the rules for releasing undersized fish in Idaho?
In Idaho, all undersized or non-game fish that are caught must be released back into the water immediately.
Where can I find more information about hunting and fishing in Idaho?
More information about hunting and fishing in Idaho can be found on the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website.