Idaho’s black bear permit application period is open now. Hunters wanting to take part in black bear hunts in Idaho should look to apply for controlled hunts. The application period runs from January 15 to February 15. Any hunter who has a valid 2021 hunting license may apply for controlled hunts at any Fish and Game license vendor with a credit card by calling 1-800-554-8685. Likewise, hunters can also apply for the black bear permits online at the Idaho Fish and Game’s website. All hunters applying will be charged a nonrefundable application fee of $6.25 per person for residents and $14.75 per person for non-residents. Hunters will also be charged additional fees for telephone and Internet applications. Mail-in applications are not accepted.
There are multiple black bear controlled hunts you can apply for. Applications will be taken for both youth and regular hunters. To be listed as a youth hunter you must be between the ages of 10 to 17. After the closure of the application period, hunters so expect to wait a few weeks for the drawing process to complete. Successful applicants will be notified by mail no later than March 10th. After successfully drawing a spring bear permit hunters should read the 2020 Big Game Seasons and Rules book. Black bear hunting in Idaho has become quite popular and many hunters take to the forest every spring. However, Leftover bear tags will go on sale on April 1st.
Spring black bear hunting is the first hunt of the new year for many. Bear hunting can provide a large amount of protein as well as quality time in the mountains.
