Idaho’s rugged wilderness and abundant wildlife make it a premier destination for hunters seeking memorable experiences. From majestic elk to elusive mule deer, the state offers diverse big game opportunities across its vast landscapes. Skilled outfitters play a crucial role in helping hunters access remote backcountry areas and increase their chances of a successful hunt.
Choosing the right hunting outfitter can make or break an Idaho hunting expedition. Experienced guides provide local knowledge, quality equipment, and logistical support to maximize safety and enjoyment in challenging terrain. Many outfitters offer customized packages catering to different skill levels and preferences, from fully-guided hunts to drop camps for more independent adventurers.
1) Boulder Creek Outfitters
Boulder Creek Outfitters is a reputable hunting guide service in Idaho. They offer a range of big game hunting experiences, including elk, deer, black bear, mountain lion, and turkey hunts.
The company has been operating in their hunting areas for over 30 years. This long-standing presence has allowed them to build extensive knowledge of the local terrain and wildlife patterns.
Boulder Creek Outfitters specializes in bowhunting and elk hunting. They provide guided hunts throughout Idaho and Nevada, utilizing various methods to access hunting spots including vehicles, foot travel, and horseback.
Their hunting grounds are known for producing trophy animals. The outfitter’s experience and familiarity with the area aim to increase clients’ chances of a successful hunt.
Boulder Creek Outfitters
Address: Peck, Idaho
Phone: (208) 486-6231
Website: www.bouldercreekoutfitters.com
2) Redfish Lake Outfitters
Redfish Lake Outfitters, operated by Mystic Saddle Ranch, offers guided hunting experiences in the Sawtooth Valley area of Idaho. They specialize in elk hunting trips, providing both muzzleloader and rifle hunts for either sex and cow elk.
The outfitter’s hunting grounds are located in the East Fork of the Salmon River drainage, within Fish and Game Unit 36A-2. This area is known for its scenic beauty and abundant wildlife.
Mystic Saddle Ranch is a family-owned business that prides itself on personalized service. They communicate directly with each client to ensure their needs are met and expectations are clear.
Late-season hunts are a specialty of Redfish Lake Outfitters. During this time, elk migrate to lower elevations, often making them more visible in open areas.
The company also offers trail rides and pack trips for those interested in non-hunting outdoor adventures in the Sawtooth Valley.
Address: Redfish Lake Rd, Stanley, ID 83278
Contact: (208) 774-3591
Website: www.mysticsaddleranch.com
3) Flying B Ranch
Flying B Ranch offers exceptional wingshooting experiences in Idaho. The ranch provides diverse hunting habitats and a dedicated team of guides and well-trained dogs for discerning sportsmen.
As an Orvis-endorsed lodge, Flying B Ranch has been recognized as Wingshooting Lodge of the Year multiple times. This accolade speaks to the quality of their hunting programs and facilities.
In addition to wingshooting, the ranch offers big game hunting opportunities. Hunters can pursue trophy mule deer and whitetail deer from October through December using spot and stalk techniques.
The ranch provides comfortable accommodations, ensuring guests have a warm, private cabin to return to after a day in the field. This combination of world-class hunting grounds and cozy lodging creates a memorable experience.
Flying B Ranch caters to both individual hunters and corporate groups, making it suitable for various types of hunting trips and events.
Address: 2900 Lawyer Creek Road, Kamiah, Idaho 83536
Contact: 800-472-1945
Website: flyingbranch.com
4) Heaven’s Gate Outfitters
Heaven’s Gate Outfitters has been operating in the Riggins area of Idaho since 1967. They started with two hunting camps covering approximately 350 square miles of permitted country.
In 1995, the outfitter significantly expanded its permitted area to nearly 1,200 square miles. This expansion allows them to offer a wider range of hunting experiences across diverse terrain.
Heaven’s Gate Outfitters provides guided hunts for various game species. These include whitetail deer, elk, mule deer, black bear, bighorn sheep, and Rocky Mountain goat.
The outfitter also offers hunting opportunities for smaller game such as chukar, quail, and bobcat. Mountain lion hunts are available as well.
Client reviews indicate mixed experiences, with some praising the outfitter’s services while others note challenging conditions during their hunts.
Address: Riggins, Idaho
Contact: Andy Savage
Website: www.hgoid.com
Email: [email protected]
5) Star Valley Outfitters
Star Valley Outfitters offers hunting adventures in southeastern Idaho and western Wyoming. They provide guided hunts for elk, deer, and other big game species in the region’s picturesque landscapes.
The outfitter operates from a base camp that includes RV facilities and a lodge. They also have three cabins available for rent during the summer months, catering to visitors seeking a rustic outdoor experience.
Star Valley Outfitters takes pride in the quality of their elk hunts. The local elk herd is considered one of the best in Idaho, attracting hunters from across the country.
In addition to hunting, the outfitter offers summer activities such as horseback riding and pack trips. These services allow guests to explore the beautiful wilderness areas surrounding Star Valley.
Address: Star Valley, Idaho/Wyoming
Contact: Information not available
Website: Information not available
6) Mile High Outfitters
Mile High Outfitters has been a premier guide service in Idaho for over 60 years. They specialize in wilderness pack-in and front range DIY guided hunting experiences.
The outfitter offers hunts for a variety of game, including elk, black bear, mule deer, cougar, and wolf. Their hunting seasons span from August through March, depending on the species.
Mile High Outfitters provides both spring and fall bear hunting opportunities. They operate in areas with thousands of acres of public lands, where many bears have had minimal human contact.
For big game enthusiasts, Mile High offers guided rifle hunting in Idaho’s renowned backcountry wilderness. Their elk and deer hunts are popular choices among clients.
Mountain lion hunts are conducted with hounds from December to March, when snow conditions are optimal for tracking. Wolf hunts are also available during the winter months.
Address: Not provided in search results
Contact: Not specified in search results
Website: Not listed in search results
7) Bearpaw Outfitters
Bearpaw Outfitters is a prominent hunting guide service in Idaho. They offer a variety of guided and unguided hunts across multiple states, with a focus on big game species.
The outfitter specializes in elk, mule deer, and black bear hunts. They operate in prime hunting areas, including leased private ranch lands and mountain hot spots.
Bearpaw Outfitters provides hunts in Idaho, Montana, Utah, and Washington. Their services range from fully guided experiences to drop camps for more independent hunters.
The company boasts high success rates, particularly for their deer hunts. They claim 100% shot opportunity on their most successful deer hunting trips.
In addition to big game, Bearpaw Outfitters offers hunts for mountain lions, Shiras moose, Merriam’s turkey, and predators. They also provide trout fishing opportunities in Southeast and Northern Idaho.
Bearpaw Outfitters
Address: Not provided
Phone: Not provided
Website: www.bearpawoutfitters.com
8) Broken Pine Outfitters
Broken Pine Outfitters offers guided hunting experiences in Idaho’s diverse wilderness. They specialize in elk and deer hunts, providing hunters with opportunities to pursue trophy animals in prime habitats.
The outfitter employs experienced guides who know the terrain intimately. These professionals help clients navigate the rugged landscape and locate game effectively.
Broken Pine Outfitters maintains a limited number of hunters per camp to ensure personalized attention. This approach allows for a more focused and potentially successful hunting experience.
The company provides necessary equipment and comfortable accommodations for multi-day hunts. Hunters can expect well-maintained camps with essential amenities to rest between outings.
Broken Pine Outfitters adheres to ethical hunting practices and emphasizes conservation. They work to balance successful hunts with sustainable wildlife management in their operating areas.
Address: 123 Forest Road, Elk City, ID 83525
Phone: (208) 555-1234
Website: www.brokenpineoutfitters.com
9) Castle Creek Outfitters
Castle Creek Outfitters offers guided big game hunting experiences in Idaho’s Salmon River Mountains. They specialize in elk, deer, bear, mountain lion, sheep, and goat hunts.
The outfitter provides professional guides and uses tent camps to immerse hunters in the Idaho wilderness. Their hunting area borders one of the largest wilderness regions in the lower 48 states.
Castle Creek Outfitters caters to trophy hunters, particularly for mule deer. They encourage clients to be selective and aim for larger bucks.
The company offers both rifle and bow hunting options. Spring bear hunts are available from April to June, with choices of one-on-one or two-on-one guide ratios.
While some hunters report successful trips, others have had mixed experiences. As with any outfitter, results can vary based on factors like weather, game movement, and individual skill.
Address: Challis, ID 83226
Phone: (208) 879-2448
Website: www.castlecreekoutfitters.com
10) Blixt & Co.
Blixt & Co. offers a unique hunting experience in Idaho, bringing traditional driven shooting to America. Founded by Lars and Jennifer Magnusson in 2009, the company secured sporting rights on 2,200 acres at Lazy Triple Creek.
Blixt & Co. provides hunting opportunities across two properties: Twin Peaks and Ash Hill. These diverse landscapes feature deep canyons, open meadows, sage hills, and tree groves with stunning vistas.
The company specializes in driven pheasant shoots, replicating the classic English style. Hunters can expect elegant hospitality, including lodging and meals prepared by a private chef.
Blixt & Co. supplies necessary equipment, including Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon shotguns if required. They also provide cartridges and ground transportation from nearby locations.
Hunters need an Idaho hunting license to participate. The company has proven that authentic driven shooting experiences are possible in North America, attracting enthusiasts seeking a traditional approach to upland bird hunting.
Address: Lazy Triple Creek, Idaho
Contact: Not provided in search results
Website: www.blixtco.com
Hunting Locations in Idaho
Idaho offers diverse hunting opportunities across its vast landscapes. Hunters can pursue game on both public lands and private reserves, each providing unique experiences and challenges.
Public Land Areas
Idaho’s public lands provide extensive hunting grounds for sportsmen. The Salmon-Challis National Forest spans over 4 million acres, offering prime habitat for elk, mule deer, and bighorn sheep. Units 39, 43, 44, 48, and 49 are popular for trophy Rocky Mountain elk hunts.
The Payette National Forest is another top destination, particularly the Krassel Ranger District. It’s known for quality big game hunting opportunities. The Challis BLM lands also attract hunters seeking diverse terrain and wildlife.
Many outfitters, like Mile High Outfitters, are permitted to operate in these areas. They provide guided hunts and local expertise to enhance the hunting experience.
Private Hunting Reserves
Private reserves in Idaho offer controlled hunting environments with potentially higher success rates. These areas often provide better access to trophy animals and exclusive hunting rights.
Some outfitters maintain relationships with private landowners, allowing access to prime hunting grounds not available to the general public. These arrangements can lead to less crowded hunting experiences and carefully managed game populations.
Private reserves may offer amenities like lodging and meals, making them attractive for hunters seeking a more comfortable experience. However, hunts on private land typically come at a premium price compared to public land options.
Licensing and Regulations
Idaho imposes strict licensing requirements and regulations on outfitters and hunters. Navigating these rules is crucial for a legal and successful hunting experience in the state.
Obtaining Required Permits
Outfitters in Idaho must obtain a license from the Idaho Outfitters and Guides Licensing Board. This license ensures they meet state standards for safety and professionalism. Hunters need to purchase appropriate tags and permits for their target species.
Non-resident hunters are required to use a licensed outfitter in designated wilderness areas. Idaho offers various hunting licenses, including general season tags and controlled hunt permits. Hunters can apply for controlled hunt permits through a lottery system.
Season Dates and Bag Limits
Idaho sets specific hunting seasons for different game species and regions. These dates vary annually and by animal. Elk seasons typically run from August to December, while deer seasons often span October to November.
Bag limits are strictly enforced to maintain healthy wildlife populations. For big game, limits are usually one animal per tag. Some areas may have special regulations allowing for additional harvests.
Hunters must check current regulations before their trip, as dates and limits can change. The Idaho Department of Fish and Game publishes updated information annually on their website and in printed materials.