Idaho Bruins

[bowfiend]

I was just all over the Idaho Fish & Game website and I couldn't find any info on when I can purchase an out-of-state license and tag for bears (unit 12). Does anyone know when I can pick those up online?

And while we're getting fired up for April 1st    , I've never baited bears (because we can't in Montana) so I was curious how realistic it is for me to think I can find some action with minimal baiting - e.g. honey burns, small and infrequently replenished baits, etc. The only guy I know that bear hunts seriously in Idaho uses 50 gallon drums full of beaver carcassses and that's WAY out of my league.

I'm very open to suggestions.

Thanks!

[Ray_G]

In the Hunting Section is the Big Game Rules.  This is where the "booklet" is in electronic form.

 http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/cms/hunt/rules/bg/fees.pdf

On the first page, left side column, half way down it states that licenses and tags go on sale December 1 for each year (upcoming).  You should be able to purchase a non-res license and bear tags now.  I am not sure how it works for online sales but I can't imagine Fish & Game not selling online when they are available at vendors.  You will need to go to Fish & Game office for a bait permit - not available online or by phone.

I can't answer your questions regarding minimal baiting.  When I was involved with baiting bears in that region, we always had mechanized ways of replenishing baits everyday.  There are other guys on here that bait bears that will hopefully answer your questions.

Good hunting!

[bowfiend]

Thanks for the info. I went through the online licensing system yesterday thinking I could purchase tags, but bear license and tags were not listed among the options available. Is it possible that they require a paper application?

[wingnut]

The thing about baiting bear is to get their attention and hold it long enough for a dominant boar to find your location.  It takes a lot of work acutally.

I've never tried a minimal baiting.  It could work but will take a lot of luck.

Mike

[Ray_G]

I guess you better call the regional office in Lewiston or HQ in Boise to find out why you can't purchase them online.  If nothing else, they should be able to do the sale over the phone with you.

[Rick Wiltshire]

I have saved the extra cost of buying online and bought once I got to Idaho.  Just a thought.

[Ted Fry]

No reason you shouldnt be able to purchase tags and lic online , you would need a reduced bear tag , you can get two for unit 12, you can as Rick stated just pickup over the counter when you get to Idaho.
As far as baiting , you will have trouble just minimal baiting in unit 12 as the is lots of access and lots of others baiting hard in that unit, you will be competing with them, but hey , you never know till you try right?
You may want to avoid your buddies baits as beaver is not legal to use as bait in Idaho as its a protected non game species. See regs under baiting and bait.