Available Idaho Mule Deer Hunts --- Search HF Aventures
Idaho’s mule deer hunting has seen better days. The only bright news to share is that last year’s statewide fawn survival rate was the highest recorded in the last 10 years. Hopefully we can keep that trend going, and with such easy winters, Idaho will once again be producing the quality of deer they did before the last couple of bad winters they had.
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Mule deer harvest was 18,329 in 2023, which is down 22% from the previous year. It was also the seventh consecutive year in a row that harvest levels were below the 10-year average. Harvest success on the general hunts was 21% and on the controlled hunts was 46% in 2023. In 2016, there were 37,070 mule deer harvested, and in 2023, there were only 18,329 harvested. This is a great representation of what two hard winters can do to the mule deer population.
Idaho has the genetics to produce big mule deer, but the state is managed more for hunter opportunity than it is top end potential. If you are looking for an opportunity to take a 180" or better buck, you will want to focus on the controlled hunts in the central and western areas of the state. Units 11, 36B, 44, 45, and 52 turn out a few great bucks every year. While those units are typically the best hunts in the state, almost every unit that has a late rifle hunt in November will produce 180"+ class bucks, but you will have to put some time in to turn one up.
The whitetail harvest was actually up in 2023. There were 19,828 whitetails harvested in 2023. That is 646 deer over the 2022 total harvest. Harvest success on the general hunts was 38% and on the controlled hunts was 40% in 2023. Of the 19,828 whitetail harvested, 18,548 were bucks. Idaho’s highest whitetail densities are found in the Panhandle region. Most of the general seasons in the northern Panhandle close December 1st, allowing hunters the opportunity to hunt during the peak of the rut, which can make for a fun hunt. As you move south in Idaho, the whitetail densities become much lower, although the quality of bucks is still good. Honestly, the whitetail hunting on general units is looking better than the mule deer hunting on general units.
There are some great bucks in Idaho, but you are going to have to work even harder as there are not many mature bucks available. Idaho is still a good state to hunt deer, and with so much diverse country, you can always find a place that fits your hunting style. Most of the hunts we listed in our tables have less than 10% draw odds, but with Idaho not having a point system, you have as good of odds as anyone else. Remember, if you were able to purchase an over-the-counter deer tag for the 2024 season, you may exchange your tag for a controlled hunt if you are lucky enough to be drawn.
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Hunters must have realistic expectations and plan on hunting average bucks, but there is always a chance for a great buck in any unit in Idaho. Take a look at the deer tables, and if you have any questions, give us a call. Good luck in the draw!
For all of the specific dates and units, consult the Idaho regulations brochure.
Over the last 20+ years, we've collected hunting research and data, so join Huntin' Fool today and access the best research tools for hunting mule deer in Idaho, including 3D Maps, Draw Odds, Consultations, and much more. Go on more hunts with better information!
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The Idaho Deer application deadline is June 5, 2024. Successful applicants must purchase their tags by August 1, 2024.
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Our magazine, which is available in print and online,has everything in one location - application info, draw details and odds, fees, hunter requirements, point structure, age restrictions, youth information, weapon restrictions, other tag opportunities, hunt planning, and much more. If you would like access to all of our research, join today!
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Up-Front Fees |
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| Annual Hunting License and Access Fee | $195 |
| Junior Mentored Hunting License and Access Fee | $95.75 |
| Application Fee per Species | $18 |
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| Deer Tag | $351.75 |
| Junior Mentored Deer Tag (10-17 years old) | $176.75 |
| Archery Permit | $81.75 |
| Muzzleloader Permit | $81.75 |
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