Learn what you need to know about Idaho's draw system for big game hunts to help you prepare to apply
Idaho offers a great selection of hunting opportunities across its diverse landscapes, from rolling plains and dense forests to rugged mountains and expansive high desert. The state is known for its plethora of wildlife, including mule deer, whitetail deer, elk, black bears, moose, bighorn sheep and more.
Hunters can enjoy both general and controlled hunts with opportunities spread throughout multiple regions. Idaho's Game Management Units are tailored to provide access to prime hunting areas — and many units offer over-the-counter (OTC) tags for deer and elk.
For certain species or specific areas, a controlled hunt with a drawing process is required.
Before applying, it's crucial to fully understand the state's draw and point system. By meticulously planning and strategically managing your applications, you can increase your chances of securing a tag and enjoy more frequent hunting opportunities in the Gem State.
Be sure to check out our Application Strategy articles to learn in-depth research and application tips when it comes time to apply in Idaho.
Idaho is one of the few unique states that doesn’t use a formal system of preference or bonus points for the distribution of controlled hunt permits. A simple lottery system is used, which puts every applicant — regardless of time spent applying — on an equal playing field.
A maximum of 10% of controlled hunt tags go to nonresidents for hunt choices with more than 10 total tags. If a controlled hunt code has fewer than 10 tags, then no more than one nonresident tag will be offered. Tags for moose, bighorn sheep or mountain goats are subject to the 10% maximum cap quota for each hunt, but are also held to a 10% maximum cap quota for the whole state.
Idaho allows for two choices on the application. Every applicant's first choice is considered before any second choice is considered. Generally speaking, all bighorn sheep, moose and mountain goat hunt choices as well as the highly desired hunt choices for deer, elk and antelope are filled before any second choices are considered.
Idaho does allow party applications, but the rules differ some depending on the species you are applying for. Parties for deer, elk and antelope tags can contain up to four members while applications for moose, bighorn sheep and mountain goat can only contain two.
Learn more information about hunting applications, draw systems, hunt regulations, tag allocations, and more in our State Profile sections:
