PREDATORS -- Hunters and their guns have not been particularly effective in controlling wolf numbers in Idaho in the two seasons that have been held over the past three years.

This month, wildlife managers will turn to trappers to do the job.

The first wolf trapping season in decades opens Nov. 15-March 31 in the Lolo zone; Selway zone; Middle Fork zone; Dworshak-Elk City zone, except Unit 10A; and the Panhandle zone, except for units 2 and 3. All other zones are closed to trapping, subject to an Idaho Fish and Game Commission review in January.

Trappers must complete a required wolf trapping class before they can buy wolf trapping tags, valid only in zones with an open wolf trapping season. Licensed trappers may buy three tags per trapping season. Wolf tags cost $11.50 for resident hunters, and $31.75 for nonresidents. Trappers also may buy an additional two hunting tags per calendar year.

See details of wolf hunting and trapping seasons and rules here.

Read on for more information for trappers -- as well as for the public who might encounter wolf traps on their own or with their pets. 

Also, read this disturbing story from the Great Falls Tribune about a bird hunter whose dog had a near-death experience with a snare trap, which is legal under the Idaho rules.

Trapping regulations prohibit traps from the center and within 5 feet of center line of all maintained designated public trails and from the surface of all maintained designated public roads. Ground traps are prohibited within 300 feet of any designated public campground, picnic area and trailhead.

Hound hunters, hunters with bird dogs and other pet owners are responsible for keeping track and maintaining control of their dogs. It is illegal to allow dogs to pursue wildlife – except for dogs pursuing mountain lions and black bears during the open pursuit season.

People concerned about their dogs caught in a trap may carry wire cutters for snares. Dogs caught in traps may become agitated or panicked and bite their owners while they try to free them. Put a blanket or coat over your dog’s head to protect yourself from being bitten, and push down hard on the springs or lever. The springs or levers may be stiff, and it may be difficult to release a dog from a wolf trap.