Hunters Ed: A Must-Have for Idaho's Outdoor Enthusiasts

As the hunting season approaches, it's essential for both new and seasoned hunters to get their Hunter Education certification. Idaho Fish and Game offers these classes throughout the state, but with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, some areas may not have available courses. In such cases, contact WDFW Hunter Education for assistance (see course information below).

To ensure a smooth hunting experience, plan ahead by completing your Hunter Ed class well before the start of your intended hunting season. Although in-person classes are provided by certified volunteer instructors, there might be difficulties finding one near you due to the ongoing pandemic. Be prepared and aware that some classes may have limited availability.

For those new to hunting, Idaho Fish and Game provides valuable resources on their website. You can find links to the state's hunting regulations, tips for navigating the online tag system, and additional information here. Additionally, residents who haven't purchased their tags yet will not be able to do so as of Friday.

Nonresident deer and elk tags will still be available at various license vendor locations throughout the state. However, please note that customers are not allowed to camp in parking lots. To increase their chances of getting a tag for popular hunting zones, hunters should plan to arrive early at regional fish and game offices.

It's crucial to remember that no exchanges are allowed when purchasing tags. If you accidentally buy the wrong tag, you can get a refund minus a processing fee. To avoid this situation, always have a backup plan in case your first choice sells out.

Idaho Fish and Game has experienced significant demand for nonresident deer and elk tags in recent years. According to spokesperson Roger Phillips, 'We know that there's going to be more people trying to buy these tags than there are tags available.' To prepare for this, have a patient mindset, especially if buying online. Last year, the agency sold over 22,000 combined deer and elk tags to nonresident hunters from all 50 states, as well as 4 U.S. territories and 61 other countries.

Remember, patience is key when purchasing tags. Non-Idaho residents can buy their tags starting Friday morning. With a Hunter Education certification in hand and some planning ahead, you'll be ready for an unforgettable hunting experience in Idaho's great outdoors.

Idaho fish and game hunters ed