Idaho offers one of the most balanced elk hunting landscapes in the West, with a blend of opportunity-driven seasons and the chance to pursue truly exceptional bulls. The state’s diverse terrain supports elk from the dense, rugged backcountry of the central mountains to the more accessible foothills and rolling country in the south. Across these varied habitats, hunters encounter bulls that occasionally push past the 340-inch Boone and Crockett mark.

Elk seasons in Idaho are structured around both general-season hunts and controlled hunts, giving hunters multiple paths to the field. General tags—available over the counter for residents and through a draw for nonresidents—provide widespread access across much of the state. Some general-season archery hunts take place squarely during the rut, offering exciting, vocal elk encounters without the need for a controlled permit. For bowhunters seeking a true wilderness experience, Idaho’s expansive backcountry delivers classic elk hunting in remote, demanding terrain.

Controlled hunts offer more targeted opportunities, with rifle tags in particular drawing high demand. Many of these permits take consistent applications and a bit of luck, as Idaho operates under a pure random lottery—no preference or bonus points—so all hunters enter each year on equal footing. These controlled rifle seasons provide access to select units with strong bull age classes and limited pressure, making them some of the most coveted elk tags in the state.

Wolves remain a significant factor in portions of Idaho, especially in the central and northern regions where predation has affected elk numbers. Even so, the state’s combination of diverse habitat, general-season opportunity, and controlled hunts allows Idaho to maintain solid elk populations and offer quality experiences across a broad range of units.

For hunters willing to push into big, wild country—or those looking for accessible terrain with consistent elk numbers—Idaho stands out as one of the West’s most versatile and rewarding elk destinations.

News, notes and alerts

Highlights

Boone and Crockett entries: Typical

** Units listed below may not have a current hunt for this species. Units in this table are included if any part of the unit is found within the county.

Boone and Crockett entires: Nontypical

** Units listed below may not have a current hunt for this species. Units in this table are included if any part of the unit is found within the county.