Idaho Black Bear Hunting Units & Draw Odds
90 units
Idaho's black bear draw is a random-entry system open to nonresidents across 90 units statewide. You'll apply between May 1 and June 5, 2026, with results on July 1. Nonresidents receive 10% of available tags and pay an $18 application fee plus a $231.75 tag fee if drawn. Unlike point-based systems, every application has an equal shot regardless of prior entries—no waiting required. The unit data below shows historical draw success rates, including several hunts that drew at 100.0% even at zero points, giving you a clear picture of which areas have offered the best odds for nonresident tags in recent years.
How the Idaho Draw Works
Draw system
Pure random draw — every applicant has equal odds, no points.
Nonresident allocation: 10% of tags
2026 application window
May 1 – Jun 5(nonresident)
Results: Jul 1
2026 fees (nonresident, regular)
$18 app · $185 license · $231.75 tag
Easiest Black Bear Draws for Nonresidents (2024 Results)
Point levels that drew with certainty, and the best documented zero-point hunts — actual draw results, per hunt.
100% at zero points · Hunt 8003
100% at zero points · Hunt 8003
100% at zero points · Hunt 8003
100% at zero points · Hunt 8505, 2nd Draw
100% at zero points · Hunt 8003
100% at zero points · Hunt 8003
100% at zero points · Hunt 8505, 2nd Draw
100% at zero points · Hunt 8003
100% at zero points · Hunt 8003
100% at zero points · Hunt 8003
100% at zero points · Hunt 8003
20% at zero points · Hunt 8503
| Unit | Drew with certainty at | Best zero-point hunt | Success | Public land |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unit 17 | — | 100%Hunt 8003 | — | 100% |
| Unit 2 | — | 100%Hunt 8003 | — | 19% |
| Unit 21 | — | 100%Hunt 8003 | — | 100% |
| Unit 22 | — | 100%Hunt 8505, 2nd Draw | — | 77% |
| Unit 28 | — | 100%Hunt 8003 | — | 98% |
| Unit 3 | — | 100%Hunt 8003 | — | 61% |
| Unit 31 | — | 100%Hunt 8505, 2nd Draw | — | 52% |
| Unit 32 | — | 100%Hunt 8003 | — | 30% |
| Unit 38 | — | 100%Hunt 8003 | — | 42% |
| Unit 39 | — | 100%Hunt 8003 | — | 81% |
| Unit 6 | — | 100%Hunt 8003 | — | 66% |
| Unit 32A | — | 20%Hunt 8503 | — | 75% |
All Idaho Black Bear Units
Idaho Black Bear Draw FAQ
Do I need points to draw an Idaho black bear tag?
No. Idaho's black bear draw is random-entry, meaning points don't factor in. Every nonresident application has an equal chance, regardless of whether you're applying for the first time or the fifth.
When do nonresident applications open and close for 2026?
Applications open May 1, 2026 and close June 5, 2026. Results are announced July 1, 2026. The nonresident application fee is $18 and the tag fee, if drawn, is $231.75.
What percentage of Idaho black bear tags go to nonresidents?
Nonresidents receive 10% of all available black bear tags across the state. The remaining 90% are reserved for residents.
What are the best units to apply for as a nonresident?
Several units—including 17, 2, 21, 28, and 22—have shown strong draw success in recent years, with zero-point hunts drawing at 100.0%. Check the unit-by-unit breakdown to see historical odds and pick based on season timing and terrain that fit your hunt.
Plan your Idaho Black Bear hunt — free account, no card. Run the draw simulator at your point level, see 2022–2024 data, and save units to compare.
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