Ask Fish and Game

Make the call

Q. What should I do if I think I see a hunter doing something illegal while I'm out hunting?

A. Get as much information as possible, such as a description of the person or persons, a description and especially the license number of any vehicles, and note the location. Don't confront the individual; instead "Make the Call" to the Citizens Against Poaching hotline at (800) 632-5999 - 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or fill out a report on the Idaho Department of Fish and Game's website at: https://fishandgame.idaho.gov/feedback/getForm.cfm?getForm=3. Callers may remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward if the information they provide leads to a citation. Or folks may contact a local IDFG conservation officer, the Idaho State Police or local law enforcement.

Grouse permits

Q. Grouse season is about to open, but do I need a permit to hunt grouse?

A. It depends on what kind of grouse. Nothing other than a valid 2013 Idaho hunting license is required to hunt forest grouse, which includes dusky, ruffed and spruce grouse. But to hunt sage grouse and sharp-tailed grouse, hunters also need a sage/sharp-tailed grouse permit validation, available from license vendors for $4.75. Check the 2013 upland game rule book for seasons and bag limits.

Take the kids fishing

Q. Where's a good place to take my grandkids fishing?

A. Family fishing waters are great places to take the grandchildren and the rest of the family fishing. They are easy to get to, the rules are simple and they have plenty of fish to catch. To find good places to take a youngster fishing, directions on how to get there, what kind of fish will you find, and some tips to make your first fishing trip a success, go to: http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/public/fish/?getPage=252 which lists family friendly waters in each of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game's seven regions across the state. Or go to the IDFG website at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/ and click on the "Idaho Fishing Planner" logo under the picture, and search for a place. Or contact the nearest IDFG regional office.

Handguns in archery hunts

Q. Is it legal to carry a handgun during an archery hunt?

A. Yes. But it is not legal to use it to kill any animal for which the archery-only hunt is open.