Licenses, tags, and permits

Where, how and what to purchase to hunt, fish and trap.

License vendor screen / Photo by Vicky Osborn

Purchase Licenses, Tags, Permits:

HUNTING
To hunt in Idaho you need a hunting license. Depending on the species you want to hunt, you may need a tag or permit.

Idaho has both controlled and general season hunts. General season tags are available on a first-come, first served basis. Hunters need to apply for controlled hunts, which are issued through a random drawing.

FISHING
To fish in Idaho any person 14 years of age or older must have a valid fishing license.

Anglers younger than 14 do not need a license, but there is a small difference between resident and nonresident youth.

  • A resident child under 14 has their own separate fishing limit. 
  • A nonresident child under 14 must be with someone who has a valid fishing license and their fish are in included in the license holders fishing limit. However, a nonresident child may purchase their own license and have their own limit.

Special fishing permits are need for some activities for both residents and nonresidents:

  • Fishing for salmon and steelhead
  • Fishing with two poles.

Find the cost of a license, tag, or permit. Fees are separated into resident and nonresident categories.

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