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Middle Fork Elk Zone
Idaho GMU 27
Strategic hunting data, boundary maps, and 2026 season dates for Game Management Unit 27.
Updated for 2026 Season
TerrainForest/Mountains
OwnershipLand breakdown unavailable
Access DifficultySee IDFG
Key SpeciesBlack Bear
Season TypeGeneral & Controlled
ZoneMiddle Fork
Unit 27 Overview
Idaho Game Management Unit 27 (GMU 27) is a premier hunting destination located in the Middle Fork Elk Zone. Home to Black Bear, Deer, Elk, Gray Wolf, Mountain Lion, White-tailed Deer, this unit features high-elevation rugged terrain, requiring physical preparation and optics for cross-canyon spotting. Public-land breakdown for Unit 27 is not yet integrated into our database — verify acreage with Idaho Fish and Game's Hunt Planner before scouting.
Application Strategy
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2026 Regular Schedule
Seasons in Unit 27 typically begin in Sep 15.
There are 12 confirmed seasons in Unit 27.
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We're currently digitizing 2023-2025 harvest reports and draw odds for Unit 27. Check back shortly for deep-dive analytics.
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Unit 27 Boundary
Those portions of LEMHI, VALLEY, and CUSTER COUNTIES within the drainage of the Middle Fork of the Salmon River as follows: the drainages on the east side of the Middle Fork Salmon River from its mouth upstream to Camas Creek; the drainages on the north side of Camas Creek from its mouth upstream to, but excluding, the Yellowjacket Creek drainage; the drainages on the south side of Camas Creek and south of the Camas Creek Trail (Forest Service Trail 134); the drainages on the east side of the Middle Fork Salmon River from Camas Creek upstream to, but excluding, the Marsh Creek drainage; and the drainages on the west side of the Middle Fork of the Salmon River upstream from, but excluding, the Big Creek drainage to, but excluding, the Sulphur Creek drainage.
Middle Fork Zone Context
Central Idaho — Middle Fork Salmon Drainage
The Middle Fork zone is wilderness elk hunting via the Middle Fork of the Salmon River — much of it accessible only by raft, jet boat, pack stock, or floatplane. Elk numbers are moderate but pressure is minimal, and the experience is exceptional for those committed to the logistics.
Float-in camps and outfitted trips dominate. DIY non-stock-supported hunts are uncommon for good reason. Stanley and Salmon are launch points.
See all units in the Middle Fork ZoneCommon Questions About Unit 27
Where is Idaho GMU 27?
Unit 27 sits in the Middle Fork Elk Zone. The landscape is predominantly forest/mountains, requiring appropriate gear and preparation.
What species can I hunt in Unit 27?
Unit 27 has open seasons for Deer, White-tailed Deer, Elk, Black Bear, Mountain Lion. Confirm season dates and weapon legality with Idaho Fish and Game before applying or buying tags.
Are offline maps useful in GMU 27?
Yes. Cell service is often limited or non-existent in the core hunting areas of Unit 27. Having saved offline maps is critical for safety and staying on legal ground.
Is Unit 27 mostly public land?
Unit 27 is approximately 99.8% public (mostly public). That gives DIY hunters meaningful range for scouting and stalking without trespass risk.
Land Ownership Breakdown
USFS99.39%
State0.24%
Other0.19%
Private0.18%
Source: IDFG Hunt Planner · Inside Idaho.
Other Units in the Middle Fork Zone
Season and regulatory information sourced from Idaho Fish and Game proclamations. Land ownership data compiled from public records. Maps generated by Roam Idaho.
Terrain Breakdown
Key Insight
Predominantly Forest/Mountains
Prepare for steep elevation and spot-and-stalk tactics.
See terrain map
Land Access
Access Intel
Mostly Public
Great for DIY roaming.
Land Ownership Map
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Species Guides
Hunted in Unit 27. Tap a species for full strategy.
Pro Tip
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