Elk and Deer tags for Rifle and Archery hunts are sold on a quota system.   We can guarantee these tags with early bookings.  For your convenience, we will assist you in purchasing these tags through our outfitter set a side.  A non-resident Deer tag can be used for either deer or bear.  Muzzleloader Elk and Deer are available through a limited draw which has good drawing odds.

We are the exclusive licensed outfitter to hunt deer and elk in an area of over 250 square miles in central Idaho.  This allows us to offer hunts for the novice first time hunter or the experienced trophy hunter in a wide variety of hunting terrain.  Hunts are run out of a comfortable wall tent base camp in a remote roadless area.  The elevation of our hunting area is from 5,000 feet to 11,000 feet.  Depending on the weather conditions, camps are anywhere from a 2 to 6 hour horseback ride.

Our deluxe drop camps are ideal for those of you who prefer to hunt on your own.  Drop camps have a high success if you have basic hunting skills and don't mind cooking for yourself.  You and a packer will ride into camp where he will then familiarize you with the area.  Although horses are not left in camp, he will check on you periodically and pack your meat.  The majority of our camps have radios for daily communication.  These camps consist of a wall tent, complete kitchen equipment, wood stove, propane stove, table, cots, lantern, ax, shovel and other necessary items to ensure that you have a comfortable camp.  Your firewood is cut and you will be camped on a good water supply.  You are responsible for providing license, tags, food and personal gear which includes weapon and sleeping bag.  You are also responsible for field dressing and caping your trophy.

Youth Hunter Discounts

The State of Idaho encourages youth hunting for both residents and non-residents.  The Idaho Fish and Game has a junior mentor program with greatly reduced license and tag fees.  We at Sawtooth Wilderness Outfitters also encourage families with young hunters and offer a 25% discount for juniors ages 12 to 17 the first time they hunt with us.  This is a great opportunity to encourage young hunters and get them started with a good hunting experience.


Archery Elk and Deer

This is a designated archery only season for the avid bow hunter.  Archery season runs from August 30th through September 30th which is during the peak of the elk rut.  This is an either sex hunt for elk.  Mild weather conditions make this a great time to be out in the woods.  It is not uncommon to hear elk bugle every day of your hunt and often you will be working more than one bull at a time. Although this is primarily an elk hunt, you can combine it with either deer or bear at no additional charge if you decide to purchase a deer tag.  A non-resident deer tag can be used for either deer or bear. There are good quality mule deer and a good population of black bear in this area.  Because of the remoteness of these camps, the bear do not get hunted during the regular spring bear season.

Archery Dates and Rates

Call now to book your hunt!   (208) 462-3416

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Rifle Mule Deer

This area in central Idaho has a long time history of producing outstanding quality deer.  There are both typical and non-typical deer with lots of mass and height.  South facing slopes are primarily sagebrush and bitter brush with scattered patches of timber making this country excellent deer habitat.  We hunt deer early while they are still in their summer range before the general rifle elk hunt begins.  We are hunting high elevations, glassing the open side hills early mornings and evenings.  Mid day, we glass the bedding areas and use still hunting techniques in the timber patches.  We recommend that you be in good shape and be accustomed to using good quality binoculars.

Rifle Mule Deer Dates and Rates

Call now to book your hunt!   (208) 462-3416

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Rifle Elk
This area has an excellent bull to cow ratio with a large number of mature bulls and is currently producing some exceptional trophies.   Our season is from October 15th through November 8th.  Depending on your preferred method of hunting, we offer an early hunt with milder weather during the tail end of the bugle or later hunts with a chance of some snow and elk starting to gather.  You have an excellent opportunity of harvesting elk through out the entire season.  We typically run from 40% to 85% success on good mature animals. The first two hunts can be combined with mule deer and black bear.

Rifle Elk & Combination Dates and Rates

Call now to book your hunt!   (208) 462-3416

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Muzzleloader Elk or Deer

This is a late season hunt, which generally allows for good snow conditions. The elk have started to herd up and move to their winter areas. The deer are in the peak of their rut and spend a lot of time out in the open seeking does. Although this is our only draw hunt for elk and deer you still have an excellent opportunity of getting a tag.

Muzzleloader cow elk hunts are during September with over the counter guaranteed tags.

Muzzleloader Elk or Deer Dates and Rates

Call now to book your hunt!   (208) 462-3416

Sawtooth Wilderness Outfitters does not have control of weather conditions, natural disasters, your personal emergencies or other unforseen incidents and makes no refunds. Trip cancellation insurance from your local insurance provider is recommended.

A 40% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your hunt and dates.  Cashier's check, money order, personal check, Visa or Master Card are all accepted.  The balance is due 30 days before your hunt begins.  In addition to the base price, Idaho also requires a 6% sales tax.

Gratuities are not mandatory, however, it is customary to tip your guide, packer and cook if you feel they did a good job for you.

Sawtooth Wilderness Outfitters is a member of the Idaho Outfitters and Guides Association, America Outdoors National Outfitter and Guides Association, bonded and licensed by the State of Idaho and permitted on the Boise National Forest and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.  All of our guides are professionals who are licensed by the State of Idaho and meet current first aid requirements.

Clients are responsible for letting the outfitter know of any special medical and dietary needs prior to trip.

Please call us for available dates.

Because we spend most of our time in the backcountry away from our computer,
a phone call is the fastest way to contact us.

Call now to book your hunt!   (208) 462-3416