Idaho Bear

[COhuntin]

Just wondering if anyone has any input on hunting bear in SE Idaho? Am trying to put together a hunt, maybe in the Upper Snake Region. Looks like most of the better bear hunting is northern Idaho, but not sure I can add the miles to get there. Any thoughts would be appreciated. The winter is getting long and am anxious to get in the woods one way or another.

 

[Jonathan_S]

You'd be well off to call outfitters in the area and see if it is something that even exists. Don't mislead them into thinking you're a paying customer but firing off a few friendly emails can't hurt. Most outfitters post all their available hunts online and give a general idea on where they take their customers. I'm not saying to try and share a drainage with them but you might be able to piece together some good info.

You're right though, most of Idaho's spring bear opportunities are in Central and Northern Idaho.

 

[Muledeerfanatic]

You should be able to find bears

 

[Wasatchbuck]

Look into Idaho's Hunt planner available on their website. It will give you some stats on previous years harvests in the unit you are looking at. I have used it quite a bit as a starting point in selecting units for bear hunts.

 

[Jonathan_S]

Another thing...generally speaking the spring bear hunting picks up as time goes on so if your time/money is limited to a week or less than I'd recommend waiting until later in May. Maybe some guys with specific SE Idaho experience would chime in if that is incorrect but it's definitely true for those areas further North in Idaho and Washington.

 

[COhuntin]

Thanks guys. I appreciate it.

 

[Nick Muche]

Better bear hunting in central Idaho than SE Idaho, no bears in southern Idaho for the most part.

 

[Muledeerfanatic]

He asked about the upper snake area. Plenty of bears. Hunt the border of WY around the Tetons or Palisades.

 

[TetonRecon]

I'm born and raised in South East Idaho, currently living in Idaho Falls. If you are coming from Colorado for a spot and stalk opportunity, I'd suggest you keep driving a couple more hours further north toward central Idaho. Lots more bears up there and fewer people to contend with. Gas is cheap right now, make the trip worth it.

 

[sneaky]

I'm born and raised in South East Idaho, currently living in Idaho Falls. If you are coming from Colorado for a spot and stalk opportunity, I'd suggest you keep driving a couple more hours further north toward central Idaho. Lots more bears up there and fewer people to contend with. Gas is cheap right now, make the trip worth it.

He's right, you know

 

[COhuntin]

Thanks guys. I am taking your advise and driving farther north. Due to work and other conflicts I have to earlier that I would like, but hey, it's getting out in the woods hunting. I am happy with just having the opportunity to get out and enjoy it. Thanks again.