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Pioneer Elk Zone
Idaho GMU 49
Strategic hunting data, boundary maps, and 2026 season dates for Game Management Unit 49.
Updated for 2026 Season
TerrainSage Steppe/Mountain
OwnershipLand breakdown unavailable
Access DifficultySee IDFG
Key SpeciesPronghorn
Season TypeControlled Only
ZonePioneer
Unit 49 Overview
Idaho Game Management Unit 49 (GMU 49) is a premier hunting destination located in the Pioneer 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 49 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 49 typically begin in Sep 25.
There are 2 confirmed seasons in Unit 49.
View Full ScheduleHarvest Data Coming Soon
We're currently digitizing 2023-2025 harvest reports and draw odds for Unit 49. Check back shortly for deep-dive analytics.
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Unit 49 Boundary
That portion of BLAINE COUNTY with the following boundary: beginning at Ketchum, then south on State Highway 75 to U.S. 20, then east on U.S. 20 to mile post 221.2, which is the watershed divide between the Copper Creek and Cottonwood Creek watershed, and then north along the watershed divide to, and then north along the watershed divide between the Little Wood and Big Lost Rivers, to and then north along the divide to the watershed divide between the Big Wood and Big Lost Rivers, then along the divide to the Trail Creek Road, then southwest on Trail Creek Road to the point of beginning.
Pioneer Zone Context
South-Central Idaho — Pioneer Mountains
The Pioneer zone covers the range east of Sun Valley — high alpine basins, exposed ridgelines, and a mix of public and ranch land. Trail Creek and the Copper Basin road network are the primary access corridors.
Ketchum, Mackay, and Carey are the staging towns. Many drainages require a 4WD high-clearance vehicle to reach trailheads.
See all units in the Pioneer ZoneCommon Questions About Unit 49
Where is Idaho GMU 49?
Unit 49 sits in the Pioneer Elk Zone. The landscape is predominantly sage steppe/mountain, requiring appropriate gear and preparation.
What species can I hunt in Unit 49?
Unit 49 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 49?
Yes. Cell service is often limited or non-existent in the core hunting areas of Unit 49. Having saved offline maps is critical for safety and staying on legal ground.
Is Unit 49 mostly public land?
Unit 49 is approximately 65.4% public (mixed public/private). That gives DIY hunters meaningful range for scouting and stalking without trespass risk.
Land Ownership Breakdown
Private34.62%
BLM30.52%
USFS27.8%
State6.89%
NPS0.16%
Source: IDFG Hunt Planner · Inside Idaho.
Other Units in the Pioneer 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
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Pro Tip
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