Hunter reports are required for all big game tag holders

Idaho's big game hunters are required to file mandatory reports, which are used to help state wildlife managers track and maintain healthy herds, according to Idaho Fish & Game officials.

For elk, deer and pronghorn hunts, hunters need to report within 10 days whether they harvested an animal. Those who didn't hunt or harvest must report within 10 days after the season closes. Reports can be filed through the Go Outdoors Idaho app, online at GoOutdoorsIdaho.com, or by calling 877-268-9365 between 7 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. MST.

Hunters who harvest a black bear, mountain lion or gray wolf face additional requirements. Hunters must present the skull and hide, along with evidence of which sex the bear is attached, to an Idaho Fish and Game regional office or conservation officer within 10 days. They also must complete a Big Game Mortality Report. 

Unsuccessful hunters aren't required to report.

For moose, sheep and goat hunts, successful hunters must report their harvest within 10 days and show either antlers (for moose) or horns (for sheep and goat) at a Fish and Game office or to a conservation officer. They must complete a Big Game Mortality Report.

Unsuccessful moose, sheep and goat hunters must return unused tags within 10 days after the season closes. Tags can be mailed to Idaho Fish and Game, Wildlife Bureau, PO Box 25, Boise, ID 83707. While cancelled tags will be returned upon request, failing to report could make hunters ineligible for future drawings.

The timely reporting helps wildlife managers gauge herd health, assess hunting pressure and set future seasons and rules.

Information: idfg.idaho.gov