Idaho Fish and Game to give free fishing licenses to foster care youth

BOISE (Idaho Capital Sun) — The Idaho Fish and Game Commission is giving youth ages 18 to 20 in foster care, along with one foster parent within each household, free fishing licenses in 2025.

The program was approved by the commission last week, and it is a collaboration between Idaho Fish and Game, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, and Idaho Sportsmen, Access & Opportunity – a hunting and fishing advocacy group paying for the balance of the discounted licenses. 

“We’re proud to support Idaho’s foster youth by making it easier for them to experience the joy of fishing,” Idaho Fish and Game Public Information Supervisor Roger Phillips said in a news release. “This program is about providing connections to nature and well-being through fishing. We hope it inspires new anglers, and provides foster parents a way to pass along their fishing knowledge and appreciation for the outdoors while providing a fun family activity.”

Youth in extended foster care between ages 18 to 20 and one foster parent per family can receive a voucher upon request from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare that can be redeemed at an Idaho Fish and Game office for a fishing license. 

Laura Denner, the Department of Health and Welfare family and community partnerships administrator, said the program is a “commendable” step to support foster youth and families. 

“This initiative aims to promote outdoor activities that encourage bonding and healing, providing a therapeutic escape for both children in foster care and their caregivers,” Denner said in the release. 

Idaho Sportsmen, Access & Opportunity Founder and Chairman Benn Brocksome said his group works to advance access and opportunity for hunting and fishing through collaboration with like-minded groups, government entities, affiliates and members.

“Idaho’s great outdoors should be accessible to all, especially foster youth who can find solace and adventure in nature,” Brocksome said. “By covering these costs, we’re making sure that these young people and their foster families have a chance to enjoy the outdoors, connect with each other, and create lasting memories. This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to increase outdoor opportunities for everyone in our community.”

Youth in foster care and their families interested in participating in the program should reach out to Denner, with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, via email at laura.denner@dhw.idaho.gov.