I’ve hunted and worked Idaho a lot since 1980. I have a forestry degree and worked quite a few NF’s as an independent contract timber cruiser. Have also worked in Oregon, Washington and Montana.
Thought I’d help some diy.
I’ve elk hunted in units 9,10,12,17,19A, 20A,22,23,24,25,26,27,32A,33,39,48,49,51. Sheep hunted 28.
Worked in units 10,12,15,33,36,36A,36B,37,37A,43,44,48,50,5154,55,56,57.
In my opinion:
Elk Archery Top units 36, 36A, 36B, 37A, 37, 43, 48, 49, 50 , 51. Also 22, 23, 24, 31, 32A.
Units I worked and have wanted to hunt: 43 and 37A
43 and 48 have a large network of trail motorcycle trails though out. Worked forest surveys with my Honda XL 200 for 2 months. Closed to 4 wheelers. Good way to get away from others.
Worked 37A in Sept. ’96 - Bulls were a bugling and saw many.
Most units a good combo with mule deer. And antelope in the 36 to 51 group.
I would archery hunt in a unit that has a draw for rifle elk. The archery only draws are all excellent.
Moose, sheep and goats if you can draw.
Units from 1 - 7 and 58 to 78 - don’t know them except driving thru, they do kill a lot game in both north and east Idaho.
Thoughts on the trophy quality in the Frank and Salmon zones compared to the archery units without a general rifle. Not quite as good but the remoteness can allow for some trophies is my experience.
