1 April Idaho Trophy Species Tags: Open for Application April 1 – April 30 April 1, 2020By Joe Cavanaugh Announcements, General Information Idaho Hunts, Trophy Species 0 The tag application period for Idaho trophy species (moose/sheep/goat) runs from April 1st to April 30th. In comparison to neighboring states, Idaho implements a rather unique tag-allocation system for these species, which offers hunters reasonable odds for drawing a tag and a quality hunting experience. Idaho does not use a bonus/preference point system. As a result, hunters have more or less the same odds of drawing a trophy-species tag the very first year they apply as they do the 20th year. I drew a bull moose tag the first year I applied. And, since all Idaho trophy species hunts are “once in a lifetime”, I’ll never apply for a bull moose tag again, unless a bull tag goes into the second draw period (which rarely happens). Under Idaho’s trophy-species, tag-allotment system you can only apply for 1 of the 3 trophy species per year; and if you do apply for any of the 3 trophy species you are also not permitted to apply for any controlled-hunt elk, deer, or pronghorn tags the same year. This limits applicants-per-species greatly, as the shotgun application strategy does not work here. You must focus on 1 trophy species to apply for and sacrifice applying for elk/deer/antelope controlled hunts. Three random examples of draw odds include: Hunt 3051, Unit 29, antlered moose tag (11 tags)—1:10 odds Hunt 5011, Unit 27-4, bighorn sheep tag (3 tags)—1:12 odds Hunt 6015, Unit 37A, mountain goat tag (1 tag)—1:16 odds These draw odds are quite reasonable when compared to 1:200 draw odds or 20 years of preference points, which are common in many states these days. This year Coronavirus adds an unprecedented risk in applying for controlled-hunt tags, as you could draw a coveted tag, and then not be able to use it if the virus persists until fall. Viewed from the other side, the current pandemic could decrease the number of applicants, which in turn would increase the odds of drawing a tag for those who are willing to take the risk. At this point all we can do is pray that the virus will have passed by hunting season. One thing for certain—you’ll never draw if you don’t apply first. For detailed information and statistics on hunting Idaho trophy species click on this link: https://idfg.idaho.gov/rules/moose-sheep-goat Good hunting, Joe Cavanaugh Related Posts Idaho Controlled-Hunt Application Period for Elk, Deer, Antelope, and Fall Bear Opens May 1st The tag application period for Idaho controlled-hunt elk, deer, pronghorn, and fall bear tags opens May 1 and runs to June 5. Idaho does not use a bonus/preference point system for controlled hunts. As a result, hunters have the same odds of drawing a tag the first year they apply as they do any other year. Idaho Spring Black Bear Hunting The application deadline for Idaho controlled-hunt, spring bear tags is February 15. Fortunately for all of us, most Idaho black bear tags are sold over-the-counter (OTC). This includes tags for units 28 and 27, where Castle Creek and Wild Idaho Outfitters conduct their bear hunts. The reduced-price or “wilderness tag” is good for all of Unit 27 and those portions of Unit 28 within the Frank Church Wilderness, as well as within most designated wilderness areas in the state of Idaho. Idaho Resumes Sales of Nonresident Licenses and Tags We’re back on track again for spring bear. As of May 16, 2020, Idaho hunting licenses, tags, and permits will be available to buy online, at retail vendors, or by calling (800) 554-8685. Phase 2 in Planning Your 2020 Hunts Dates to keep in mind this month while planning your 2020 hunts are March 5th, the controlled-hunt application deadline for all species in Utah; and April 1st, the controlled-hunt application deadline for elk and deer tags in Montana. Utah offers some outstanding tags as far as trophy and overall quality are concerned. 2020 Salmon B Tags already sold out Idaho nonresident hunting tags went on sale December 1, 2019 and in only 9 short days the Salmon B Elk Tags were sold out. Wow! Seems that Idaho is being rediscovered as a place to hunt. I have often said that Idaho is the best kept secret in the hunting world, and it appears the secret is getting out. With OTC tags and good game populations, it is no wonder. If you had your sights set on hunting the Salmon B region this year (B tag is rifle tag), you still have the option to book with an outfitter. In Idaho, thankfully and gratefully, outfitters are guaranteed elk tags and have a certain amount of set aside deer tags for the hunting public that want to use the services of an outfitter. Analyzing Controlled-Hunt Statistics: Priorities First We’re well into controlled-hunt application season throughout most of the West. If you’re not already analyzing harvest statistics, draw odds, and overall scores and ratings on specific game units and seasons, you still have time to start. Facets that figure into the equation of best-choice-in-tags to apply for include: potential trophy quality; past success rates; hunting pressure; difficulty of terrain; accessibility of accommodations; and of course—draw odds. Comment (0)