Ironically, it may have been the opposite weather that contributed to the lowest elk harvest since 2013. Warm fall weather with little precipitation often creates poor hunting conditions, but weather or not, the statewide elk harvest dropped nearly 2,400 animals compared to the prior year. But not all deer and elk harvests were down. White-tailed deer harvest had a modest bump—and the first increase in four years—signaling herds may be recovering from a large disease die-off in 2021.
Over the last week, residents of Twin Falls have reported sightings of a mountain lion within city limits. Initial reports were in neighborhoods around Carriage Lane and Addison Ave. and more recently in the neighborhoods around Cascade Park and Stadium Drive. There have been no reports of attacks on people or pets.
While observations and sightings have been reported, no direct evidence has been found and none of the recent reports have been confirmed.
Residents are encouraged to report sightings to either Idaho Fish and Game, Magic
As spring arrives in the Salmon Region, it’s time to visit your favorite fishing hole. Fish and Game staff will be stocking 1,850 catchable-size (10 to 12 inch) trout to three local ponds in April.
The Hook and Bulletin podcast is a weekly news roundup of hunting, fishing, trapping and conservation stories from around the Gem State. More specifically, this weekly podcast will give Idaho’s sportsmen and women a quick, digestible overview of recent Fish and Game stories.
An instructor-led hunter education course will be held in Leadore April 29 & 30, May 1 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. each evening, May 3 from 3 to 6 p.m., and May 4 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The course will be held at the Leadore School and is designed for students ages 9 and older. Space is limited and advanced registration is required by going online or by visiting the Fish and Game office in Salmon at 99 Highway 93 North.
Idaho Fish and Game was notified that the Salmon Region's limit of 15 river otters was met on March 26. The otter trapping season for the entire region closes 72 hours after the harvest quota has been met. As a result, the otter season for the Salmon Region closes at 11:59 p.m. on March 29.
From tags sales to season openers, there’s a lot happening in Idaho next month that you should be aware of. Staying in the loop can be the difference between applying for that coveted controlled hunt tag and watching from the sidelines. Be sure to stay up to date on all Fish and Game happenings. Here are some important dates to help you plan for the month.