Idaho Elk and Mule Deer with Guaranteed License

Walking the halls of the Great American Outdoor Show presents a cascade of mounted big game heads; however, one phrase caught my attention among the giant deer and elk antlers: Guaranteed License.  “If you book the hunt, we’ll get the license,” said owner and outfitter Inga Cabral.  “We hunt the rugged part of Idaho where most hunters won’t go, which suits us just fine.”

Benefits of Idaho Licensing

I’ve drawn one elk license in Idaho in the past five years and may never draw another due to the lottery system.  Outfitters are allocated permits so that clients need not count on lady luck.  An elk tag in Idaho costs $650, one of the cheapest for non-residents in the West.  A deer tag is $351.75 but can be used for a bear, whitetail deer, or mountain lion.  I once encountered a large chocolate boar in the Seven Devils Mountains, but hadn’t purchased a deer tag, making for a difficult pass.  Guaranteed licenses allow you and your friends to plan ahead, maybe a year or two out, and know that your dream hunt will become a reality.

Lions, Bears, and Wolves

Idaho doesn’t get nearly as much elk hunting press as Colorado, Wyoming, and Southwestern states, yet hunting in its majestic mountains will soon become a passion.  Humans are the apex predator in Idaho, and the state does its best to protect deer and elk populations.  Wolf tags are just $35; hunters are encouraged to buy several and fill them completely.  Idaho has a fall and spring bear season with two tags available in some units.  Mountain lions are abundant, and you may see one on an archery hunt with the ability to take this giant predator on a deer tag.

Russell Pond Outfitters

To visit the Russel Pond Outfitters website, click here.  I was impressed with my visit to their booth, their literature, and their positive attitude.  With so many outfitters to choose from at the GAOS, prospective clients should always check references, and the Russell Pond Literature had a list of 26 clients, complete with the game they hunted and their phone numbers.  I’ve found that a family-owned business is always the most responsive to the unique needs of a hunting party, and I wouldn’t hesitate to book with them.