Idaho Code § 36-2101 (2026)

Declaration of policy. 

The natural resources of the state of Idaho are an invaluable asset to every community in which they abound. Every year, in rapidly increasing numbers, the inhabitants of the state of Idaho and nonresidents are enjoying the benefits of Idaho’s recreational opportunities. The tourist trade is of vital importance to the state of Idaho, and the recreational value of Idaho’s natural resources is such that the number of persons who are each year participating in their enjoyment is steadily increasing. The intent of this legislation is to promote and encourage residents and nonresidents alike to participate in the enjoyment and use of the deserts, mountains, rivers, streams, lakes, reservoirs and other natural resources of Idaho, and the fish and game therein, and to that end to regulate and license those persons who undertake for compensation to provide equipment and personal services to such persons, for the explicit purpose of safeguarding the health, safety, welfare and freedom from injury or danger of such persons, in the exercise of the police power of this state. It is not the intent of this legislation to interfere in any way with the business of livestock operations, private property rights, nor to prevent the owner of pack animals from using same to accommodate friends where no consideration is involved for the use thereof, nor is it the intent of this legislation to interfere in any way with the right of the general public to enjoy the recreational value of Idaho’s deserts, mountains, rivers, streams, lakes, reservoirs and other natural resources when the services of commercial outfitters and guides are not utilized, nor to interfere with the right of the United States to manage the public lands under its control.