Quick Answer
In Idaho, the best times to hunt antelope are during the early morning hours, just before sunrise, and late afternoon, about an hour before sunset, when the animals are most active.
Pre-Dawn Antelope Hunting
To be successful, aim to arrive at your hunting location about an hour before first light. Antelope are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during twilight hours, so you’ll want to take advantage of the early morning darkness to get into position. Use a spotting scope or binoculars to survey the area and identify likely routes and feeding grounds. This will give you an edge in stalking and approaching your quarry undetected.
Mid-Day Break and Late Afternoon Pursuit
Take a mid-day break to rest and rehydrate, as the heat can be intense in the Snake River country. Antelope tend to seek shade and rest during the hottest part of the day, so you may not see much activity during this time. However, as the sun begins to set and temperatures drop, antelope become more active again. Focus on areas with good cover and ambush points, such as rocky outcroppings or draws, where you can set up a successful stalk.
Public Access and Seasonal Hunting Considerations
When hunting in Idaho’s public access areas, be aware of the season dates and bag limits. Antelope season typically runs from late September to mid-November, with the best hunting occurring during the first two weeks of October. Be sure to check the Idaho Fish and Game website for up-to-date information on hunting regulations and access restrictions. Additionally, consider the terrain and weather conditions, as antelope can be more challenging to hunt in rugged or snowy terrain.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.