Idaho Bow Hunting: OTC Elk, Mule Deer & Tags
📅 2026 Season & License Info
Archery Season Open
August 30
Archery Season Close
September 30
Min Draw Weight
40 lbs
Resident License
$14/yr + tags
Non-Resident License
$185/yr + tags
Top Species
Elk, Whitetail Deer, Mule Deer, Black Bear, Mountain Goat
📍 Top Public Hunting Spots
Clearwater National Forest
Elk, Whitetail Deer, Bear
North Idaho Panhandle. Archery elk in steep timber. Some of Idaho's best whitetail country.
Boise National Forest
Elk, Mule Deer, Bear
Central Idaho. OTC archery elk with good access. Pronghorn nearby in desert.
Salmon-Challis National Forest
Elk, Mule Deer, Bighorn Sheep
Frank Church Wilderness. World-class remote hunting for committed bowhunters.
⚖️ Idaho Archery Regulations
- •Minimum draw weight: 40 lbs
- •OTC archery elk available in most units
- •Some deer units require draw — whitetail in north Idaho often OTC
- •Hunter orange required during general deer/elk seasons
💡 Expert Tips for Idaho
- →North Idaho Panhandle whitetail hunting rivals the Midwest for mature buck potential
- →Frank Church Wilderness elk hunting is remote but produces 350+ inch bulls
- →September bugling elk will respond to cow calls and bugles — very exciting bowhunting
- →Mule deer in desert units during October rut can be stalked in open terrain
🏛️ Official Wildlife Agency & Sources
Hunting seasons, tag quotas, and bag limits are established by state wildlife agencies and change annually. For official regulations, proclamations, and license purchases, consult:
Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG)
Official State Wildlife Agency
Status: 2026 Season Guide
Idaho Bowhunting FAQ
Are Idaho archery elk tags over the counter?
Most Idaho elk units offer OTC archery elk tags — one of the best deals in western hunting. Unit-specific regulations apply, and some controlled units require a draw. Purchase your elk tag at idfg.idaho.gov or any license vendor. Non-residents should purchase tags early as some units have quotas.