BOISE, ID – Idaho Fish and Game is advancing a set of proposed restrictions that could change how certain technologies are used during big game hunting seasons, with the proposals expected to be considered by the Idaho Legislature during the 2026 legislative session.

The proposals stem from the work of the Hunting and Advanced Technology (HAT) working group, which Idaho Fish and Game formed in summer 2024 in response to concerns about rapidly advancing hunting technology. The 23-member group included a cross section of hunters and outdoor users who reviewed what constitutes fair chase in modern big game hunting. After months of meetings, public input, and a statewide hunter survey, the group submitted recommendations to the Idaho Fish and Game Commission in spring 2025.

In addition to recommendations that received unanimous support from the working group, the commission advanced three additional restrictions that were supported by 22 of the 23 members. These proposals are now part of a negotiated rulemaking process, which includes additional rounds of public comment before a final proposal is sent to the Legislature.

Under the proposed rules, the use of drones, night vision technology, thermal imaging optics, and transmitting trail cameras would be restricted for big game hunting from Aug. 30 through Dec. 31. The drone proposal would prohibit using aircraft, including unmanned aircraft systems, for scouting or hunting during that period, with limited exceptions for direct transportation flights that do not involve scouting activities.

The proposals would also prohibit the use of night vision and thermal imaging technology for scouting, hunting, or retrieval of big game during the same timeframe. Additionally, transmitting trail cameras — defined as cameras that send images or video via cellular or internet connection — would be prohibited on public lands during the big game hunting season. Traditional trail cameras that require physical retrieval of data would remain legal year-round.

Idaho Fish and Game officials emphasized that the proposed restrictions apply only to big game hunting and would not affect the use of these technologies for monitoring private property, photographing wildlife, or protecting livestock. The rules would also have limited application to wolf hunting, particularly in areas managed under expanded methods of take, where some technologies would remain permitted under existing regulations.

The negotiated rulemaking process is expected to continue into 2026, with the Idaho Legislature set to review the proposals after further public input and revisions.