Idaho hunters: Know the new technology rules before heading into the field

Hunters heading into this year's batch of hunting seasons should be aware of technology rule changes after legislation was passed earlier this year.

The Idaho Legislature passed House Bill 939, addressing the use of advanced technology during big game and game bird hunting seasons. The legislation comes on the heels of extensive discussion about the role of technology in hunting and establishes statutory restrictions that hunters need to understand before heading into the field.

Between Aug. 30 and Dec. 31, 2026, it is unlawful to use any of the following technologies for hunting or scouting all deer, elk, pronghorn, mountain goat, bighorn sheep, moose, black bear, and game birds:

• Thermal imaging technology
• Night vision technology
• Transmitting trail cameras on land owned by the federal government, the state of Idaho, or a local government within the state
• Drone aircraft or other unmanned aircraft systems

The only exceptions for these technologies being used are:

• Hunting wolves, mountain lions, or predatory wildlife (coyotes, jackrabbits, skunks, weasels, starlings, raccoons, and rattlesnakes)
• Retrieving wounded game animals or game birds
• Monitoring traps

The law includes specific provisions and exceptions, so hunters should not assume that all technology is prohibited or that the same rules apply to every species.

Hunters should review Pages 95-96 of the 2026 Idaho Big Game Seasons and Rules booklet to understand how the law applies to their hunt.

"Technology continues to change how people hunt and interact with wildlife," said Legislative and Community Engagement Coordinator, Ellary Tucker Williams. "It is imperative that hunters understand the laws that apply to their hunt and make sure they are using technology legally and responsibly."

Fish and Game encourages hunters to stay informed about changes to hunting laws and regulations. IDFG staff can help explain how the law applies to specific hunting situations, but hunters are responsible for knowing and following the laws and regulations that apply to their hunt.

For more information, visit Fish and Game's website or contact a local Fish and Game office.

Don't trust AI for hunting and fishing regulations - go to the source

Speaking of technology, having it conveniently at our fingertips isn't always a good thing. Time after time, a quick Google search or conversation with Alexa and Siri to get to the bottom of an Idaho Fish and Game regs question can lead to inaccurate or false information - or worse, a violation.

Every year, Fish and Game conservation officers increasingly encounter folks in the field who use AI and search engines and get incorrect information. Remember, getting bad information off the internet is no excuse for violating seasons and rules. We know how handy search engines and AI can be, but when it comes to hunting and fishing regs, go straight to the source.

Always check Fish and Game's seasons and rules booklets to make sure you're getting accurate and current information. The most up-to-date versions can be found online directly at Fish and Game's website.