Fish & Game officials available after hours

With Idaho’s hunting seasons in progress, the Idaho Fish and Game reminds people who spend time outdoors that there are several ways to contact a Fish and Game officer on weekends or after hours.

Outside of regular business hours, contact the local sheriff’s department, the state police, or any law enforcement authority. They will route pertinent information quickly and efficiently to officers in the field by radio.If you witness a violation in progress, quickly call the Citizens Against Poaching (CAP) hotline at 1-800-632-5999, which is staffed around the clock. Operators will contact the appropriate officer, officer’s supervisor, or adjacent officer until they reach someone.

“The more detailed information you provide and the quicker you report it, the more likely a poacher will get caught,” said Assistant Enforcement Bureau Chief Chris Wright.

The process is quick and simple, and callers can remain anonymous. Callers are encouraged to leave a call back number so officers can obtain additional information if needed. Rewards are paid if the information supplied is sufficient for a citation to be issued.

“License plate numbers are extremely useful as well as specific information such as exact location and time,” said Wright.

The Citizens Against Poaching number is printed on the back of all licenses and tags, as well as all the season and rule brochures. In addition, some hunters enter the CAP hotline into their cell phone so they don’t have to look for the phone number when they see something suspicious.

If your call concerns a critical wildlife emergency, it is acceptable to call 911 just as you would when you need other law enforcement assistance.