Lots of movement in Idaho hunting news right now—rule changes, disease monitoring, and a few tag openings. Read up so you don’t miss something critical this fall.
🔍 WHAT’S NEW IN IDAHO & THE WEST
Mandatory CWD testing in several Southwest Idaho units
Hunters will still need to submit samples for chronic wasting disease testing in Units 23, 24, and 32A for deer. Samples must reach Fish & Game within 10 days of harvest. (READ →) Idaho Fish and GameUnit 63A added to compulsory CWD sampling
New for 2025: Game Management Unit 63A (north of Idaho Falls) is now a mandatory CWD sampling area for deer. Hunters in that unit should check rules before heading out. (READ →) Idaho Fish and GameControlled Hunt Tags: Leftovers & Unsold Tags
Some Controlled Hunt tags are now available first-come, first-served. If you missed out earlier, check the unsold/deferred controlled hunts (deer, elk, pronghorn) through your GoOutdoorsIdaho account. (SEE LIST →) Idaho Fish and Game
⚠️ WHAT’S DIFFERENT THIS SEASON
Change | What It Means |
|---|---|
CWD testing in SW Idaho units 23, 24, 32A | You must submit deer head or sample within 10 days. Changes in your harvest plan or transport if you hunt those units. Idaho Fish and Game |
Unit 63A sampling requirement | If you’re hunting north of Idaho Falls, expect CWD rules to apply. Plan harvest reporting accordingly. Idaho Fish and Game |
Leftover Controlled Hunt Tags | These allow you one more shot at draws you missed. If your application didn’t succeed, now is the time to check tags still sitting unused. Idaho Fish and Game |
🔗 HOOKS YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS
GEAR / PREP: If hunting in Units 23/24/32A, get your sampling tools lined up—tagging, processing, transportation all matter under the new rules.
READ: Full details on which units require CWD testing & how to comply.
OPPORTUNITY: Unsold controlled hunt tags—especially deer & pronghorn—still out there. Hunt # and Area lists available now.
WATCH: Unit 63A expansion—how disease monitoring is expanding and what that means for hunters around Idaho Falls.
PLAN AHEAD: If you draw a controlled hunt, check whether leftover tag availability or second-tags might give you more options this season.
✅ WHAT YOU SHOULD DO NOW
Review maps and rules for Units 23, 24, 32A, and 63A. If you plan to hunt there, make sure you can meet all CWD testing & harvest reporting duties.
Log into your GoOutdoorsIdaho account and check “Unsold Controlled Hunts / Leftover Tags” as they update — you might find something usable.
If you didn’t draw a tag in your preferred area, broaden your unit options. Some units with leftover controlled hunt tags still have spots.
Keep a CWD compliance kit ready — everything from sample bags to knowledge of where drop-off or mailing points are.
That’s the update for now. If something urgent pops—new tag drops, rule changes, or disease alerts—I’ll send an extra note.
— The Western Vantage Team