Unit 5 in Idaho presents a challenging hunting experience, particularly due to the high incidence of rule violations regarding motorized access on private timberland, which frustrates hunters attempting a more traditional, on-foot approach. The unit combines both controlled and over-the-counter (OTC) tags, where controlled tags allow hunting during peak rut times, such as November 10 to December 1, which is highly desirable despite the availability of OTC permits. Non-residents and residents alike face issues with illegal ATV/UTV use, a factor that significantly affects game behavior and the overall hunting experience. Efforts by timberland managers and Idaho Fish & Game to enforce regulations, including camera usage, may improve conditions in the future, but currently, many suggest seeking less trafficked and more regulated areas for a quality hunt.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-150" | 160"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 130"-150" | 150"+ |
| Elk | Raghorn-290" | 290"+ |
High
Low
This area is south of the Spokane River and borders Washington. Hunters find elk and whitetails along with a few mule deer.
This is a good unit for hunting whitetail deer and some grow quite large, but not a great unit for mule deer or elk.
The eastern boundary of the northern half of the unit is Lake Coeur d'Alene. Some ridges and mountains are steep and forested, but most of the land is flat or at modest inclines. The northern half is in Kootenai County and the southern part is in Benewah County. A couple of mountains are higher than 5,000 feet in elevation, with most land sitting between 2,500 and 3,500 feet.
The main road is U.S. Highway 95 that runs through the center of the unit and passes through Plummer. The state park is on Highway 5. Secondary roads cut through this area giving access to most hunting areas, including the strip of national forest land along the Washington line.
Most of the unit is composed of private farms and pastures. Many draws and woodlots give variety as well as security cover for deer and elk. Some tall trees grow in these areas and on the hills and mountains, including Ponderosa pines, cedars, hemlocks and white pines. Low shrubs and tall bushes, along with willows, grow along creeks, in draws and along edges.
Camping is allowed along roads on Forest Service or BLM land. Campsites are available at Heyburn State Park until Oct. 1. Lodging is available in Post Falls, Coeur d’Alene and St. Maries, which are the largest towns in or near the unit.
Roughly 715 square miles
6.8% public land
Elevations from 2,300-5,200 feet
Four-wheel drive is recommended