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Idaho Hunting Information
Idaho offers some of the most diverse and opportunity-rich big-game hunting in the West. Non-residents can apply for a variety of species, including elk, mule deer, whitetail deer, antelope, moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat.
Unlike most Western states, Idaho does not use a point system, meaning every applicant has an equal chance—every single year. All non-resident general deer and elk tags are now allocated through a draw, making early planning and a correct application strategy essential.
Let’s break it down: Limited-Entry Tags and General Tags.
Limited-Entry Tags – Shiras Moose, Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, California Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat
Hunters may apply for only one species in the moose, sheep, and goat category per year.
Because Idaho has no preference or bonus points, requires applicants to float full tag fees upfront, and restricts applications to a single species, it consistently offers the best odds in the West for drawing one of these premium, once-in-a-lifetime tags.
Limited-Entry Tags – Elk, Mule Deer, Whitetail Deer, Antelope
If you’re not applying for moose, sheep, or goat, you’re eligible to apply for any or all of Idaho’s limited-entry tags for elk, deer, and antelope.
These hunts provide access to some of Idaho’s top trophy units and well-managed herds across diverse terrain—from high mountain wilderness to rolling ranchland.
General Tags – Elk and Deer
Idaho’s General Elk and Deer Tags are now drawn for non-residents rather than sold over the counter.
These tags are typically easier to draw than limited-entry hunts and have an earlier application period (typically mid-December). Successful applicants have until mid-January to purchase tags; any unclaimed tags move to a secondary draw (mid-February), and any remaining after that are sold over the counter.
Hunters can apply for both general and limited-entry tags in the same year. If a limited-entry tag is drawn, your general tag may be returned. You may also apply for a moose, sheep, or goat tag in addition to a general elk or deer tag.
Why Apply in Idaho with WTA TAGS
Whether you’re chasing elk, deer, or antelope—or dreaming of drawing a moose, sheep, or goat tag—Idaho remains one of the most advantageous states for non-residents – especially in the moose, sheep, goat category.
With no point system and reasonable odds across these premium species, every year is a fresh opportunity.
WTA TAGS will handle the entire process for you and even float the heavy up-front tag fees on your behalf. Call 1-800-755-8247 today to start planning your Idaho strategy. And remember—applications for kids are always FREE, and female applicants receive 50% off!
Idaho Application Information
Species: WTA TAGS provides application services for: Elk, Mule Deer, Whitetail Deer, Antelope, Shiras Moose, Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, California Bighorn Sheep, and Mountain Goat.
Point System: None. Idaho operates a pure random draw (no point system), creating equal opportunity for all applicants.
Party Applications: Groups of up to four hunters may apply together for elk, deer, and antelope; up to two for moose, sheep, and goat.
(Group applications are not recommended for moose, sheep, and goat, or many limited-entry elk, deer, and antelope hunts due to lower tag numbers.)Hunter Education Requirement: Anyone born on or after January 1, 1975, must possess a Hunter Education Certificate.
Youth Applicants: Youth must be at least 10 years old to hunt big game in Idaho.
They may apply at age 9, provided they turn 10 before the license is used in the field.
- Point System: Currently Idaho does not have a point system in place.
- License Purchase Yes/No: Yes, as a prerequisite of applying, you must purchase a $204.97 non-resident hunting license. Youth non-resident license is $102.75.
- Party Applications: Up to four applicants may apply together for elk, deer and antelope.
- Hunter’s Safety Card Requirement: Anyone born after January 1, 1975 must have a hunter’s safety card to apply and in their possession while afield.
- Youth: Applicants are required to be 10 years of age by the opening day of the hunting season to apply/obtain a big game permit.
- Point System: No point system in place
- You can draw the very first year you apply for any tag in Idaho.
- When applying in Idaho, applicants can only apply for one species in the moose, sheep, mountain goat category. This should be encouraging as only being able to apply for one species and having to pre-buy the non-resident hunting license makes the drawing odds for moose, sheep, and mountain goat THE BEST IN THE WEST!
- Shiras Moose odds are typically better than 1 in 15 in most of the top units
- If not applying for moose, sheep, or mountain goat, you may apply for any or all species in the elk, deer, antelope category.
- If successful WTA has an extensive outfitter network to help get you with the right outfitter.
State Application Deadlines
Sheep, Moose, Goat
April 30, 2026
Elk, Deer, Antelope
June 5, 2026
Deer, Elk General
December 15, 2025
Idaho Tag Fees
Idaho SPECIES | State Tag Fee | TOTAL DUE TO WTA TAGS TO APPLY |
|---|---|---|
Moose | $2,705.55 | $304.53 |
Rocky Mountain Bighorn | $2,705.55 | $304.53 |
California Bighorn | $2,705.55 | $304.53 |
Mountain Goat | $2,705.55 | $304.53 |
Elk | $671.30 | $82.15 |
Mule Deer | $362.30 | $82.15 |
Antelope | $353.03 | $82.15 |
Draw your Idaho hunting tag. Find the right Idaho guide.
Top 5 Advantages to using WTA TAGS
1. Dedicated Consultant
Each client is assigned a dedicated WTA TAGS Consultant. Our Consultants are the absolute experts in this field and valuable to have in your corner.
2. Peace Of Mind
Your applications will always be submitted on time and with your best interest at heart. If drawn, you will be notified by your dedicated Consultant.
3. The Float
Several states require the applicant to submit the entire tag fee, up-front, at time of application. No worries, WTA TAGS will float the tag fee on your behalf.
4. Extensive Outfitter Network
Once drawn, you can be assured WTA TAGS has the very best outfitter network in place to consider for your world-class tag.
5. Women and Children Program
Female applicants receive 50% off the WTA TAGS service fees, and kids under 19 are FREE!
Apply with WTA TAGS
Expert Knowledge
1-800-755-8247
1-800-755-8247
