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Committee adopts updates to Outfitters and Guides licensing rules; adds rivers and clarifies tag-pool deadlines
Summary
The House Resources and Conservation Committee approved a package of rule updates to IDAPA 24.35.01 governing outfitters and guides, including clarified guide training documentation, tag‑pool procedural changes, corrected season dates and additions to the table of licensable waters.
The House Resources and Conservation Committee approved a set of updated administrative rules for the Idaho Outfitters and Guides Licensing Board (IDAPA 24.35.01), adopting changes to training documentation, river listings, tag‑pool procedures and lake operator limits.
John Price, bureau chief for the Occupational Licensing Bureau and executive officer for the Outfitters and Guides Licensing Board, told the committee the board completed a full chapter review in 2023 and is presenting 13 proposed rule modifications after public meetings, negotiated rulemaking and a public hearing. Price said the redline changes remove duplicative language, align rules with statute, clarify training and documentation requirements for river guides, and remove an examination requirement that is superseded by Idaho Code.
Key rule changes presented and incorporated into the final version include: removal of duplicative hazard definitions; deletion of an examination rule because Idaho Code (cited by Price) supersedes the board’s prior jurisprudence exam requirement; clearer options for experienced guides to qualify for licensure on classified rivers; clarification that reinstatement fees will not be charged for seasonal guides; and a procedural change delaying collection of application fees until an applicant is selected for an opportunity.
Price also explained adjustments to the tag-pool process: the rules now specify that before the July 16 deadline for hunting tags, only outfitters without designations or those who have used all designated tags may request pool tags, ensuring designated tags are used first. After the July 16 deadline any outfitter may request tags from the pool. The committee heard concern from a landowner that adding licensed opportunities on certain river sections could increase crowding during salmon season; Price said public hearings and industry feedback informed the draft language and Idaho Fish and Game had provided recommended edits aimed at reducing crowding and user conflict.
Other specific edits included correcting a prior proposed season end date for a Clark Fork River section from Dec. 31 to Nov. 30 at Idaho Fish and Game’s request; adding the Little Salmon River to the table of licensable waters with language intended to reduce crowding; and increasing the maximum number of boats per operator on Lakes Coeur d’Alene, Pend Oreille and Priest from one to two, with Fish and Game noting a limited expected impact on fish populations but concern about guided-and-unguided angler interactions.
Following questions from members and public comment, a committee member moved to approve the docket; the committee adopted the proposed rules by voice vote.
The adopted rule changes will be incorporated into IDAPA 24.35.01 and reflect the board’s negotiated edits and Fish and Game’s input.
