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Smoky - Bennett Elk Zone
Idaho GMU 45
Strategic hunting data, boundary maps, and 2026 season dates for Game Management Unit 45.
Updated for 2026 Season
TerrainSage Steppe/Mountain
OwnershipLand breakdown unavailable
Access DifficultySee IDFG
Key SpeciesPronghorn
Season TypeControlled Only
ZoneSmoky - Bennett
Unit 45 Overview
Idaho Game Management Unit 45 (GMU 45) is a premier hunting destination located in the Smoky - Bennett Elk Zone. Home to Pronghorn, this unit features high-elevation rugged terrain, requiring physical preparation and optics for cross-canyon spotting. Public-land breakdown for Unit 45 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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Maps
Tactics
2026 Regular Schedule
Seasons in Unit 45 typically begin in Sep 25.
There are 1 confirmed seasons in Unit 45.
View Full ScheduleHarvest Data Coming Soon
We're currently digitizing 2023-2025 harvest reports and draw odds for Unit 45. Check back shortly for deep-dive analytics.
Data Pipeline Active
Unit 45 Boundary
Those portions of CAMAS, ELMORE, and GOODING COUNTIES within the following boundary: beginning at the junction of Interstate 84 and U.S. 20 (Mountain Home), then east on U.S. 20 to State Highway 46, then south on State Highway 46 to Gooding, then west on U.S. 26 to Interstate 84 (Bliss Exit 141), then west and north on Interstate 84 to the intersection with the Snake River at the King Hill Bridge (milepost 128.1)¸then downstream (excluding all islands) to State Highway 51, then north on State Highway 51 to the point of beginning.
Smoky - Bennett Zone Context
Idaho
An Idaho elk zone made up of one or more Game Management Units. Use the unit list below to drill into season dates, public-land access, and terrain detail for each individual unit.
Season dates and weapon legality vary by unit within this zone. Confirm tag rules with Idaho Fish and Game before applying or buying a tag.
See all units in the Smoky - Bennett ZoneCommon Questions About Unit 45
Where is Idaho GMU 45?
Unit 45 sits in the Smoky - Bennett Elk Zone. The landscape is predominantly sage steppe/mountain, requiring appropriate gear and preparation.
What species can I hunt in Unit 45?
Unit 45 has open seasons for multiple big-game species. Confirm season dates and weapon legality with Idaho Fish and Game before applying or buying tags.
Are offline maps useful in GMU 45?
Yes. Cell service is often limited or non-existent in the core hunting areas of Unit 45. Having saved offline maps is critical for safety and staying on legal ground.
Is Unit 45 mostly public land?
Unit 45 is approximately 64% public (mixed public/private). That gives DIY hunters meaningful range for scouting and stalking without trespass risk.
Land Ownership Breakdown
BLM57.32%
Private35.81%
State6.29%
USFS0.29%
Other0.1%
Source: IDFG Hunt Planner · Inside Idaho.
Other Units in the Smoky - Bennett 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 Sage Steppe/Mountain
Prepare for steep elevation and spot-and-stalk tactics.
See terrain map
Land Access
Access Intel
Mixed Public/Private
Great for DIY roaming.
Land Ownership Map
Sign in to see public/private breakdown
Pro Tip
Save this unit to your dashboard to get offline maps and real-time fire updates.