Idaho Controlled Hunts

[idahohikker]

Luckily, I'm an Idaho resident so the controlled elk hunt draw odds aren't almost zero like non residents. I'm wanting to hunt more often and not wait decades for unit 40 or a similar hunt. I like to backpack and go in a ways. I'm not real picky with trophy but like the idea of drawing a good tag every once in a while.

What do you think, as far as quality and quantity, about units 36a-1 37a, and 48 for rifle? How would you rank them if you had to pick?

I think that unit 18 is a cut below this group because of the number of tags given, though I know the country holds a few big ones. I also don't like how few access points there are. Thoughts?

37a is super rough and doesn't look like as good of habitat to me but it seems to produce pretty well according to success rates.

Feel free to PM. Thanks, guys.

 

[Joe Schmo]

As an Idaho resident you don’t have any experience with those units? If I were an Idaho resident I’d apply in an area I know...I think there’s mature bulls in almost every OTC unit in the state, but if you hunt what you know your a cut above the rest!!
Oh nevermind...just draw one (can’t go wrong on those choices) then scout, problem solved!!! Get em!!

 

[idahohikker]

Like many, many Idaho residents I haven't drawn a controlled bull elk tag. I hunt general elk areas. This site is for people to ask other's opinions, my friend. It's not that I "don't have any experience with those units". I've driven past or through them and will do some scouting. Didn't really appreciate that assumption but it's all good.

 

[Joe Schmo]

It was a question, not an assumption.
My assumption is that you probably know better than 99% of folks due to your experience and being a resident. Also, if you only hunt general areas...those areas are all OTC archery units, general areas.
My opinion is that you literally can’t go wrong with those choices. Heck save a small handful of controlled hunts I don’t think a person would be disappointed with any of em if they put in a decent effort.
And I’m genuine in my game plan of drawing, then scouting, easier for a R than a NR and I betcha could turn up some good intel and have a great hunt.

 

[idahohikker]

Thanks, Joe. Yes, it's easier as a resident to draw and then scout but it is better to scout during hunting season the previous year. I'm probably going to start deer hunting a little bit in those areas to learn them better. Those are good archery units but since I hunt general rifle, I've never hunted elk in any controlled hunt area.

 

[ID_Matt]

your message box is full.

 

[idahohikker]

Sorry about that. The inbox is cleaned up.

 

[bluetick78]

I've hunted mule deer in all 3 of those units, some more than others. With those 3 choices for elk, I'd flip a coin. They are all great hunts, I've seen mature bulls in all 3. Message me if you'd like more info.