By Mike Willis
There is no doubt that this is a great time to be a veteran. Many states, such as Idaho, have put their best foot forward by showing their appreciation for your many sacrifices.
There are countless organizations that promote programs throughout the nation for veterans and their families. Sometimes it can be difficult to read between the lines to determine which ones are legitimate and which ones aren’t.
It is an unfortunate reality, but there are a staggering number of veterans who have a service-connected disability after serving in the Military. However, few of these veterans are eligible for most opportunities, as they require a 100% rating from the VA.
For veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 40% or more, Idaho has over-the-counter tags to hunt at deeply discounted rates!
The diagram below shows the cost of non-residents vs. disabled veteran non-residents license fees. This license comes with a 3-day fishing license included in the price.
| Non-Resident License Fee | Disabled Veteran Non-Resident License Fee |
|---|---|
| $154.75 | $31.75 |
In addition to your license, you will have to purchase tags for the species that you wish to hunt. The following diagram shows the cost of the tags for non-residents vs. disabled veteran non-residents.
| Non-Resident Tag Fee | Disabled Veteran Non-Resident Tag Fee | |
|---|---|---|
| Deer | $154.75 | $31.75 |
| Elk | $416.75 | $39.75 |
| Bear and Second Bear | $186 / $41.75 | $23.75 |
| Turkey and Extra Turkey | $80 | $19.75 |
For those who have researched non-resident hunting opportunities throughout the nation, you likely know that this is an incredible deal.
Veterans seeking to take advantage of this opportunity will need to provide documentation from the Department of Veterans Affairs stating that they have a service-connected disability or disabilities totaling 40% or more. Documentation can be mailed in or presented in-person. You will not have to go through this process each time that you return. You WILL return!
In addition to discounting hunting and fishing licenses, Idaho also grants special tags to outfitters for “hunts of a lifetime” for which you may apply. To find out more about these opportunities, check out the Idaho Fish and Game Website here.
While Idaho has several units that are open for hunting without the need to draw a tag, there are some incredible opportunities for those willing to enter into the lottery. It is always a great idea to put in for a lottery hunt in hopes that you will score one of those coveted tags.
While waiting for the results of that drawing, do your research on open units to ensure that you can hunt even if you don’t draw a special tag.
Below are the controlled hunt application periods from the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.
| Tags / Permits | Dates |
|---|---|
| Spring Bear | January 15 – February 15 |
| Spring Turkey Permit | February 1 – March 1 |
| Moose, Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat | April 1 – 30 |
| Deer, Elk, Pronghorn, Fall Bear, Fall Turkey | May 1 – June 5 |
From deserts to mountain timber, Idaho truly has it all. With big game hunting opportunities that would rival any western state, Idaho commands a close look when considering your next adventure.Start preparing now for next year’s hunt! Out-of-state hunting takes lots of planning, so start the countdown today for your trip to a hunter’s paradise.
Thank you for your service and sacrifice! Happy Veterans Day.
Mike Willis
United States Air Force Veteran
