Anyone have tips for elk hunting in Idaho?

Hunting
1

I’m planning an elk hunt in Idaho soon, and I’m looking for some guidance from those who have experience in the field. Here are a few areas where I’d appreciate your insights:

Regulations & Guidelines

  • What are the key regulations I should be aware of when hunting in Idaho? I want to ensure that I’m following all rules set by the Idaho Fish and Game.

Tags & Licensing

  • How do I go about obtaining the necessary tags? Are there specific quotas or deadlines I should know about for both residents and non-residents?

Outfitters

  • Can anyone recommend reputable outfitters? I’d love to hear about your experiences with guided hunts and whether it’s worth the investment.

Hunting Zones

  • Which areas are best for elk hunting? Any tips on accessing specific hunting zones would be very helpful.

Community Experiences

  • If you’ve been part of elk hunts in Idaho, please share your strategies or stories! What worked well for you? Any advice on what to pack or how to prepare?

Thanks in advance for any advice you can share! I’m excited about this adventure and want to make the most of it.

2

I recommend doing thorough research on the different hunting zones in Idaho. Areas like the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness can be great, but check the regulations since some areas are more controlled than others.

3

Absolutely! Planning your trip around the rut, which typically happens in late September, can really increase your chances of success. Just make sure to check local weather conditions as well.

4

Don’t forget about the permits! Idaho requires a valid hunting license and a specific elk tag. Make sure to apply early, as they can sell out fast.

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5

True, and staying informed about regulations is crucial. Sometimes they change year to year, so always check the Idaho Fish and Game website for the latest updates.

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6

I love elk hunting in Idaho! The experience is amazing, especially around sunrise. Make sure to pack plenty of food and water, you’ll need your energy out there!

7

Yes! And don’t forget some good hiking boots! You’re going to be covering a lot of ground. It’s part of the fun, though!

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8

I wonder about the best GPS tools for navigation. Anyone have recommendations? Getting lost in the vast wilderness can be a bit spooky!

9

For GPS, I use OnX Hunt. It’s pretty reliable in remote areas and helps with land boundaries, which is super important.

10

Wilderness areas can be tough, but the quiet is worth it. Plus, who doesn’t love the sound of nature? Just remember your bug spray!

11

You’ve got that right! If only the mosquitoes shared our love for adventure!

12

Reflecting on my last hunt, I realized that patience is crucial. Sometimes just sitting quietly can yield the best results. Have you all had moments like that?

13

For sure! I had a day where I was just sitting and a family of elk walked right past me. Patience pays off!

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14

I recommend investing in a good quality rifle. The .300 Win Mag is a popular choice for elk hunting in Idaho. It has the range and power needed for those mountainous terrains.

15

Absolutely! Make sure to also bring a good rangefinder. The varying distances in Idaho can throw you off if you’re not prepared.

16

Layering your clothing is key! I’d suggest merino wool base layers and a waterproof shell. The weather can change quickly in Idaho’s backcountry.

17

Great advice! Also, don’t forget about a good pair of hiking boots. Comfort is crucial when you’re hiking long distances.

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18

Optics are super important! A good spotting scope can help you identify elk from a distance. Look for something lightweight but with good magnification.

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19

Totally agree! I also recommend binoculars with a 10x42 specification for versatility.

20

Does anyone have recommendations for camouflage patterns that work well in Idaho? I’m curious if certain colors or styles are better than others.

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