General deer opener is just around the corner — October 10. Most hunters are sighting in their rifles, getting campers ready, and even starting their camp groceries list. A quick check of the regulations would be another good step in preparation for this season. It’s there that hunters can see if any changes to their traditional hunts have occurred this year, and in the case of antlerless deer harvest, that is true.
In southeast Idaho, there will be no antlerless deer hunting allowed this fall during the general any-weapon season in the following units: 66A, 68, 70, 71, 72, 73, 73A, 74, 75, 76, 77, and 78. This is different from years past when youth could harvest does in many units during the general hunt. The recent archery-only season and certain controlled hunts this fall do still allow for antlerless deer hunting opportunities in the southeast region.
The driving factor behind this decision was the particularly harsh winter last year, which was responsible for the below-average overwinter survival of both fawns and does in southeast Idaho. Managers felt that this warranted a reduction in doe harvest in order to help maintain population stability.
In spite of last year’s winter and its impact on deer in some parts of the region, there is still good hunting to be had! It will just look different than previous years, certainly with fewer two-points on the hill.
