Fish and Game invites input for game bird season

Sportsmen input on proposed season changes helps wildlife managers understand sportsmen preferences and shapes hunting and trapping seasons.

Idaho Fish and Game is currently seeking public comments on statewide migratory game bird season proposals for the 2023-24 season in the Panhandle and elsewhere in the state.

Over the past year, some hunters in North Idaho have expressed dissatisfaction with the season structure during the 2022-23 season and a desire to hunt Canada geese through Jan. 31. Results from previous survey efforts suggest duck hunters prefer seasons that start and end early.

Canada goose hunters also prefer seasons that start and end as late as possible but occur at the same time as duck seasons. It is difficult to satisfy these desires with the season structure proposed in recent years. In an attempt to better satisfy hunter preferences for late season Canada goose hunting opportunity, the department is proposing two options for public consideration for the Canada goose season in Zone 6.

• Oct. 7, 2023 – Jan. 19, 2024

OR

• Oct. 7, 2023 – Oct. 22, 2023 and Nov. 4, 2023 – Jan. 31, 2024

This is an opportunity for local hunters to actively participate in shaping migratory bird seasons.

Comments will be accepted through Wednesday, March 22. Review the proposals and submit comments at idfg.idaho.gov. Or, run by the Panhandle Regional office to submit comments and chat with a biologist during an upcoming open house.

The open house will be hosted Tuesday, March 21 from 5-7 p.m. at 2885 W. Kathleen Ave. in Coeur d’Alene.

For a complete list of proposals by species, visit the season setting page on the Fish and Game website.

If you have specific questions about any of the proposals, please contact the local Fish and Game regional office.

Follow the Panhandle Region Facebook page for regular news and updates.

T.J. Ross is a regional communications manager for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.