River Otter Trapping Season Closes in Clearwater Region

Quota of 20 otters reached, season automatically ends 72 hours later

Jan. 29, 2026 at 8:55pm

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The river otter trapping season in Idaho's Clearwater Region will close at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, January 30, after the regional harvest quota of 20 otters was met earlier this week. Trappers may retain otters legally trapped before the closure, but any otters caught after the deadline must be surrendered to Idaho Fish and Game, which is offering a $10 reward per otter.

Why it matters

River otters are an important part of the ecosystem in the Clearwater Region, and the state closely monitors their population through regulated trapping seasons. Reaching the quota indicates a healthy otter population, but the closure ensures the long-term sustainability of the species in the region.

The details

Under state regulations, the trapping season automatically closes 72 hours after the quota is met. Trappers can keep otters caught before the closure, but any otters trapped after 11:59 p.m. on Friday must be surrendered to Idaho Fish and Game, which is offering a $10 reward per otter.

  • The river otter trapping season in Idaho's Clearwater Region will close at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026.
  • The regional harvest quota of 20 otters was reached on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

The players

Idaho Fish and Game

The state agency responsible for managing and regulating wildlife, including the river otter trapping season in the Clearwater Region.

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The takeaway

The closure of the river otter trapping season in the Clearwater Region demonstrates the state's commitment to sustainable wildlife management, ensuring a healthy otter population for years to come.