Loading intel...
Smoky - Bennett Elk Zone
Idaho GMU 48
Strategic hunting data, boundary maps, and 2026 season dates for Game Management Unit 48.
Updated for 2026 Season
TerrainSage Steppe/Mountain
OwnershipLand breakdown unavailable
Access DifficultySee IDFG
Key SpeciesBlack Bear
Season TypeGeneral & Controlled
ZoneSmoky - Bennett
Unit 48 Overview
Idaho Game Management Unit 48 (GMU 48) is a premier hunting destination located in the Smoky - Bennett Elk Zone. Home to Black Bear, Deer, Elk, Gray Wolf, Mountain Lion, this unit features high-elevation rugged terrain, requiring physical preparation and optics for cross-canyon spotting. Public-land breakdown for Unit 48 is not yet integrated into our database — verify acreage with Idaho Fish and Game's Hunt Planner before scouting.
Application Strategy
PremiumHow to Draw Unit 48
Unlock our detailed application strategy guide, including draw odds analysis, point creep predictions, and underrated seasonal opportunities for Unit 48.
Unlock Full AnalysisDraw Odds
Maps
Tactics
2026 Regular Schedule
Seasons in Unit 48 typically begin in Oct 10.
There are 9 confirmed seasons in Unit 48.
View Full ScheduleHarvest Data Coming Soon
We're currently digitizing 2023-2025 harvest reports and draw odds for Unit 48. Check back shortly for deep-dive analytics.
Data Pipeline Active
Unit 48 Boundary
That portion of BLAINE COUNTY within the following boundary: beginning at Ketchum, then south on State Highway 75 to U.S. 20, then west on U.S. 20 then west on U.S. 20 to the County Line Road, then north on County Line Road, to and then northeast on Camp Creek Road, to and then northeast on Croy Creek Road to Kelly Gulch Creek, then up Kelly Gulch Creek to the Big Wood River-Camas Idah
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 48
Where is Idaho GMU 48?
Unit 48 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 48?
Unit 48 has open seasons for 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 48?
Yes. Cell service is often limited or non-existent in the core hunting areas of Unit 48. Having saved offline maps is critical for safety and staying on legal ground.
Is Unit 48 mostly public land?
Unit 48 is approximately 83.3% public (mostly public). That gives DIY hunters meaningful range for scouting and stalking without trespass risk.
Land Ownership Breakdown
USFS69.39%
Private16.72%
BLM11.81%
State2.09%
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
Mostly Public
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.