There’s nothing quite like an early September morning in the Gem State. The air is crisp, the sunflowers are turning their heads toward the light, and the sudden whistle of wings cutting through the air gets your heart pounding. If you’re eager for some fast-paced action, you’re in the right spot! This guide is your one-stop resource for everything you need to know about pursuing migratory birds in Idaho for the 2025-2026 period. We’ll cover precise dates, popular species, essential maps and zones, license info, and top regulations. Let’s get you ready for a memorable and successful hunt! 🌄
🎯 At a Glance: Idaho’s 2025-2026 Flyway Timeline
Here’s a quick snapshot of the primary game birds covered in this guide.
| Bird Type | General Season Dates (2025) | Key Methods & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | Sept 1 – Sept 30 | Shotgun; Requires HIP certification |
| Eurasian Collared-Dove | Open Year-Round* | Shotgun; No closed season in most areas |
| White-winged Dove | No Open Season | Protected; Not legal game in ID |
| Band-tailed Pigeon | Sept 15 – Sept 23 | Shotgun; Special permit required |
*Always verify local ordinances as some cities may have restrictions.
📅 The Full Scoop on 2025-2026 Hunting Periods
Idaho offers a fantastic window for migratory bird hunters, with seasons designed to coincide with traditional migration patterns. Here’s the detailed breakdown you need to mark on your calendar.
Mourning Dove
- Dates: September 1 – September 30, 2025
- Daily Bag Limit: 15
- Possession Limit: 45
- Zones: Statewide
- Requirements: All hunters must have a valid hunting license and HIP certification.
Eurasian Collared-Dove
- Dates: Open year-round (No closed season)
- Daily Bag Limit: No limit
- Possession Limit: No limit
- Zones: Statewide, but always check for local restrictions.
- Requirements: Standard hunting license. HIP certification is not required for this species.
Band-tailed Pigeon
- Dates: September 15 – September 23, 2025
- Daily Bag Limit: 2
- Possession Limit: 6
- Zones: Specific national forest regions; check IDFG maps.
- Requirements: Hunters must possess a valid Band-tailed Pigeon Permit (free) in addition to their hunting license.
🗺️ Pro Tip: I once spent a perfect opener near a cut barley field in the Magic Valley region. Scouting ahead using the Idaho Fish and Game’s online mapping tools made all the difference in finding active fields on public land!
🐦 Other Feathered Opportunities
While your focus might be on doves, these other small-game species share similar habitats and seasons, making for a fantastic mixed-bag outing.
- California Quail & Mountain Quail
- Season: Typically runs from September through January. The 2025-2026 season is set for Sept 1, 2025 – Jan 31, 2026.
- Note: A great option if you’re out in the sagebrush and riparian areas after the dove season concludes.
- Common Snipe
- Season: A long season perfect for late-year hunting: Sept 1 – Dec 31, 2025.
- Note: Requires HIP certification. Look for them in muddy edges of marshes and wet fields.
📜 The Rulebook: Key Idaho Regulations
Knowing the rules keeps you safe and on the right side of the law. Here are the must-know regulations for a wing-shooter.
- Shooting Hours: Legal shooting hours are from one-half hour before sunrise to sunset.
- Baiting: It is illegal to hunt migratory game birds over baited areas. A baited area remains off-limits for 10 days after all bait has been removed.
- Lead Shot: Non-toxic shot is required for all hunting on state-owned wildlife management areas (WMAs). It is highly recommended everywhere else to protect the environment.
- License Validation: You must carry your physical hunting license, tag(s), and HIP permit on your person while in the field.
- Hunter Orange: Not required for bird hunting, but always a smart safety choice when hunting with others.
💰 What Will It Cost? 2025-2026 License & Permit Fees
Here’s a breakdown of the costs for residents and non-residents. All licenses are valid from January 1 through December 31 of the same year.
| License/Permit Type | Resident Fee | Non-Resident Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Hunting License | $19.75 | $154.75 |
| HIP Certification (Migratory Birds) | Free | Free |
| Band-tailed Pigeon Permit | Free | Free |
✅ What You Need to Legally Hunt
Before you head into the field, make sure you have these three things squared away:
- Idaho Hunting License: Required for all hunters aged 10 and up.
- Hunter Education Certification: Mandatory for anyone born on or after January 1, 1975.
- HIP Certification: Required for all hunters pursuing mourning doves, band-tailed pigeons, snipe, or other migratory birds. This is free and can be added when you buy your license.
🎟️ You can easily purchase your license and add all necessary permits online through the Idaho Fish and Game website, at any licensed vendor, or at an IDFG regional office.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use an electronic call for doves in Idaho?
A: Yes! Electronic calls are perfectly legal for attracting doves.
Q: Are there any youth-specific hunts?
A: Yes! Idaho offers several mentored youth hunts and special seasons. Keep an eye on the IDFG website for “Youth Waterfowl Days” and other opportunities designed for young hunters.
Q: Where is the best public land to hunt in Idaho?
A: Some of the best public access can be found on State Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) like Fort Boise, Payette River, and C.J. Strike. Always consult the IDFG public access maps before you go.
Q: Is there a possession limit for Eurasian collared-doves?
A: No. Since they are an invasive species, there are no bag or possession limits.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Idaho’s 2025-2026 migratory bird season promises fantastic opportunities for both new and experienced shooters. From the thrilling opener on September 1st for mourning doves to the unique challenge of band-tailed pigeons later in the month, there’s plenty of action to be had. Just remember to secure your license, get your HIP certification, review the regulations, and most importantly, practice your gun safety. Here’s to tight shots, full game bags, and beautiful sunrises in the Idaho outdoors! 👍
⚠️ Hunting seasons and rules are subject to change. It is your responsibility to confirm all dates, limits, and zones with the official Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) before you hunt. Always refer to the current-year official regulations guide for the final word.
Official Resource: Idaho Fish and Game Hunting Regulations
