Idaho Outfitters and Guides

Erik and Jack cover a busy week — Erik returns from the IPW convention in Florida where he spent three days pitching Idaho's outdoor recreation opportunities (jet boat rides, rafting, backcountry horse trips, hunting) to international tour operators and travel agents. They hit the week's policy news: Steve Pierce's official BLM confirmation, $12M in USDA CWD funding, and a sobering stat that the Forest Service maintained 22% fewer trail miles in 2025 than the year prior. Jack does a deep dive on the FY27 Interior/Environment appropriations bill out of Congressman Simpson's subcommittee — covering Forest Service budget levels, PILT funding, hunting/fishing access protections, and provisions on grizzly bears, wolves, and wolverines. Then Jay Hesse, Director of Biological Services for the Nez Perce Tribe, joins for a wide-ranging conversation on the state of Snake River salmon and steelhead — explaining quasi-extinction thresholds, the alarming status of Middle Fork Chinook populations, and the tribe's aggressive conservation measures including cryopreservation, off-site living gene banks, overwinter survival pilots, and marine-derived nutrient enhancement using shad. Jay closes with a public health warning: methylmercury levels in lower Salmon River smallmouth bass are among the highest in the state.

Erik and Jack kick off with river season updates before diving into policy news: the Public Lands Integrity Act, Jim Risch's support for the America the Beautiful Act's Legacy Restoration Fund reauthorization, the BLM's rescission of the Public Lands Rule, and Steve Pierce's impending BLM director confirmation. The main event is a deep-dive interview on a landmark development: the Salmon-Challis National Forest's authorization — signed the morning of recording — allowing limited gas chainsaw use by permitted outfitters and contractors to clear catastrophically downed timber on specific Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness trails. Erik walks through the legal foundation (the 1964 Wilderness Act's MRA process, the 1978 Endangered American Wilderness Act's House Report, and the trail-clearing mandate in the 1980 Central Idaho Wilderness Act), the scale of the problem (500+ trail miles, up to 700 downed trees per mile), and addresses critics who question the commercial motivation or fear broader precedent. He closes with a passionate case that access is the wilderness's greatest long-term protection.

In this week's episode, Erik Weiseth sits down with Shannon Walton, Executive Director of the Redside Foundation — the organization born from tragedy in 2010 that has grown into a trusted lifeline for guides across the American West. Shannon shares the origin story of Redside, her own winding path from professional guide to corporate executive to nonprofit leader, and the remarkable scope of what the organization has built: over 23,000 counseling sessions paid for since 2014, financial coaching, professional development scholarships, healthcare access, and more. The conversation also digs into the real and complex relationship between guiding culture, substance use, mental health, and the myth of the rugged Western individual. Erik also shares IOGA updates from the spring board meeting in Salmon, including a new Hunt Vice President, committee opportunities, and highlights from the strategic planning session.

In the debut episode of The Outfitter Brief, hosts Erik Weiseth (Idaho Outfitters and Guides Association) and Aaron Lieberman (America Outdoors Association) sit down with Chief Tom Schultz, Chief of the United States Forest Service. It's a wide-ranging, candid conversation covering the Forest Service reorganization, forest health, wildland fire consolidation, and what it all means for outfitters, guides, and the outdoor recreation industry. Schultz brings a unique perspective to the role — a background spanning military service, state lands management in both Montana and Idaho, and private sector timber experience — and he doesn't shy away from the hard questions. From debunking myths about land sell-offs to making the case for active forest management, this first episode sets the tone for what The Outfitter Brief is all about: cutting through the noise to get to what actually matters for the people running small businesses on America's public lands.

Erik and Jack recap a memorable Salmon Chapter banquet, run through the final stretch of Idaho's legislative session — including a last-minute bill kill, a wild ride on hunting tech rules, and a public lands win — then sit down with researcher and guide Carly Knudsen to talk burnout, resilience, and health access in the guiding profession.

Show Notes:

Show Notes

Salmon Chapter Meeting & Banquet Erik attended the Salmon Chapter's spring meeting, which covered river and hunt topics including allocation. Idaho Fish and Game presented on local wildlife biology, and America Outdoors gave an update on the EXPLORE Act and associated fees. The evening banquet was a highlight — scholarships were awarded, Brad Compton was recognized for his service on the Idaho Outfitters and Guides Licensing Board, and Jeff and Deb Bitten received a lifetime recognition award for their extraordinary contributions to the industry.

Legislative Update

• SB 1326 – Open Fields Doctrine:
• HB 861 – Tourism Funding:
• HB 939 – Hunting Technology:
• SJM 111 – Public Lands Resolution:

Forest Service Filming Permits New rules simplify the permit process for filming on Forest Service lands: fewer than 5 people filming requires no permit; 6–8 people can self-issue a de minimis authorization online; 9+ requires a formal permit and fee. BLM is expected to not require any paperwork for groups under 8. Wilderness areas may still require additional authorization — check with your local office.

Idaho Fish and Game Commission At the quarterly commission meeting, Rick Ward and Brad Compton presented a robust history and context of allocation in Idaho. Several IOGA members spoke to the commission as well.

Economic Report on Public Lands IOGA, BHA, Idaho Wildlife Federation, and Idaho Business for the Outdoors released a new economic report by economist Steve Peterson on the value of public lands to Idaho's economy. A link will be included in the IOGA newsletter — at minimum, check out the executive summary.

Licensing Board Update Brad Compton's tenure as board chairman came to a close, with Tammy Overacker stepping into the chair role. Brad will be greatly missed for his long service and deep understanding of the outfitting industry.

Upcoming Events

• April 6 – North Idaho Chapter allocation meeting (afternoon) + social dinner
• April 7 – Nez Perce-Clearwater Outfitters Meeting in Orofino
• April 9 – Salmon Select Sale & international wolf howling championship (Salmon Chapter fundraiser)
• April 9–10 – IOGA Spring Board Meeting at Wilderness River Outfitters in Salmon (open to members; Zoom available)
• April 16 – Lower Salmon Outfitters Meeting (moved from April 13)
• May 15–17 – Red Side River Rendezvous, Salmon (IOGA is a sponsor)

Guest Interview: Carly Knudsen Carly grew up in Salmon, has been guiding for over a decade (mostly on the Main and Middle Fork of the Salmon), and is now a PhD candidate in Parks, Recreation & Tourism at the University of Utah. She discusses her research on guide health and resilience — conducted in partnership with the Redside Foundation — including findings on well-being, burnout signals, the importance of organizational culture, and the significant gap in health insurance access among Idaho guides. She also talks about what outfitters and guide companies can do at the organizational level to better support their crews.

Learn more about the Redside Foundation at redsideoutdoors.org

In this information-packed episode, Erik Weiseth and Jack Hurty dive into the "unsexy but essential" work of advocating for Idaho’s outfitting industry. Erik shares insights from his recent trip to D.C. for "Camp Washington," including a surprising meeting with Senator Risch and updates on the ORG Act. Later, Jack previews a critical new economic report on the risks of public land transfers.

The second half features a deep-dive interview with John Robison, Public Lands and Wildlife Director for the Idaho Conservation League (ICL). John reflects on 25 years of conservation in Idaho, the legacy of the Owyhee Initiative, and why "collaborative conservation" is the superpower needed to keep public lands in public hands.

• D.C. Recap (Camp Washington): Erik discusses advocating for the ORG Act, which aims to fix Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) issues regarding backcountry guide compensation.
• The Forest Service "Restructure": Updates from leadership on the agency’s shift away from traditional regional models.
• Senator Risch on Public Lands: Why the Senator’s recent comments provided a "reassuring" outlook for the future of federal land ownership in Idaho.
• Economic Impact Report (March 20th): Jack breaks down top-line numbers from a new study showing that transferring federal lands to the state could shift an $837 million burden onto Idaho taxpayers.

• SNRA Success: A 180-degree turn in the relationship between outfitters and Sawtooth National Recreation Area leadership.
• Trail Stewardship Program: How outfitters can clear trails and apply that time toward their 3% use fees.
• Nez-Clear Outfitter Meeting: Mark your calendars for April 7th in Orofino.

• SJM 111: A resolution supporting "public lands in public hands" passes the Senate unanimously.
• The "Open Fields" Bill (SB 1238): Why IOGA is concerned about a bill that could create "poaching islands" on private property.
• HB 861: A look at the potential diversion of tourism promotion dollars (lodging tax) toward university budgets.

• The Owyhee Initiative: How a "dirtbag kayaker" ended up helping facilitate one of the most significant collaborative conservation efforts in the West.
• Finding Common Ground: Lessons on working with ranchers, miners, and tribes to preserve the "Sagebrush Sea."
• The Night Sky Connection: A story about how a suction dredge miner and a conservationist found mutual value in Idaho’s wilderness.
• Upcoming Conference: The Idaho Forest Restoration Partnership meeting in Coeur d’Alene (April 7–8).

• Idaho Outfitters & Guides Association (IOGA)
• Idaho Conservation League (ICL)
• America Outdoors Association

Are you an outfitter or guide? Support the voice of your industry by becoming an IOGA member today.

This week on the IOGA Podcast, hosts Erik Weiseth and Jack Hurty dive into a dense legislative update from Washington, D.C., and Boise. The episode was supposed to feature an interview with Liz Townley of the U.S. Forest Service regarding the implementation of the EXPLORE Act, but tech problems stopped that effort. The episode also includes critical updates on public land amendments and labor laws affecting the outfitting industry.

• The ORG Act: Erik reports from Washington, D.C., where he is meeting with legislators to advocate for the Outdoor Recreational Outfitting and Guiding (ORG) Act. The goal is to secure an exemption for outfitters within the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), recognizing that standard 40-hour work weeks don't apply to multi-day wilderness trips.
• Public Lands Amendments: Jack provides a breakdown of two competing constitutional amendments in Idaho:
  • Raybold-Petzky Amendment: Aimed at adjusting the mandate for the Idaho Department of Lands; currently stalled after a 7-7 deadlock in committee.
  • Senator Ben Adams' Bill: A "backstop" bill to ensure any federal land transferred to the state is placed in a trust and cannot be sold. This bill successfully passed out of committee.

• Director Appointments (SB 1300): Discussion on a bill that would change the Directors of Fish & Game and Parks & Rec from commission-hired to Governor-appointed positions. The team discusses the potential impact on scientific management and a specific $150 million risk regarding the Harriman State Park deed.

• BLM Leadership: The hosts discuss the nomination of Steve Pierce to lead the BLM and Senator Risch’s strong questioning regarding Pierce’s past stance on selling public lands.
• The Lower Snake River: An update on the recent court injunction ordering higher spill levels at dams to protect salmon and steelhead populations.
• Boise Airport "Gate 58": IOGA continues to advocate for a dedicated "backdoor" access point at the Boise Airport for backcountry flight connections.

Liz Townley joins the show to discuss the EXPLORE Act. While many outfitters focus on specific permitting tweaks, Liz provides a high-level overview of the Act’s broader scope.

• Broad Implementation: Moving from legislation to agency rulemaking.
• Future Impact: How the Act will reshape federal recreation management and the permitting landscape over the long term.

• SNRA Outfitter Meeting: Monday, March 9th @ 11:00 AM – Ketchum Library.
• Nez Clear Outfitter Meeting: April 7th – Orofino (Details to follow).

The Whitewater License Plate is getting a makeover. IOGA is looking for Idaho artists and guides to submit designs for the new plate to help increase grant funding for river-related causes.

• Interested? Email Erik at [email protected] for dimensions and submission details.

In this "long-haul" episode of the IOGA Podcast, Executive Director Erik Weiseth and Policy Director Jack Hurty are joined by a familiar face: Aaron Lieberman, Executive Director of America Outdoors.

The crew dives deep into the technicalities that affect your bottom line—from "ghost" executive orders appearing in BLM permits to the high-stakes battle over water flows in Hells Canyon. Whether you are curious about the upcoming IOGA Thaw, the latest on the EXPLORE Act, or just want to hear the team debate whether hunting should officially be named Idaho’s "state sport," this episode covers the full spectrum of the outfitting and guiding industry.

• The Federal Wage Confusion: Why rescinded $15 minimum wage language is still showing up in BLM permits and what you should do before signing.
• Hells Canyon Flows: A breakdown of the FERC Supplemental EIS and why Idaho Power’s 6,500 CFS proposal is a major safety concern for jet boaters.
• The Idaho Land Board & HJM 009: How proposed changes to Idaho Department of Lands mandates could finally recognize outfitters as key revenue generators.
• Tax Wins for Guides: Breaking down the "One Big Beautiful Bill" and what the state tax conformity means for reported tips and overtime.
• The National View: Aaron Lieberman gives a "Camp Washington" preview and discusses the EXPLORE Actimplementation and the National Forest Trail Stewardship Act.
• Outfitters & Technology: A look at the upcoming town halls regarding technology’s impact on the wilderness experience.

• IOGA Thaw: February 26th at JUMP in Boise. Get your tickets now!
• Hells Canyon Comment Deadline: March 2nd.
• BLM National Webinar: February 25th (11:00 AM MT).

Are you a member? Support the industry that supports you. Join IOGA and America Outdoors today!

In this episode, IOGA Executive Director Erik Weiseth and Policy Director Jack Hurty recap a busy week at the Idaho State House, including the annual "Lobby Day" and Wild Game Dinner. They provide critical updates on legislation affecting public lands, working animals, and wildlife crossings.

The second half of the episode features a deep-dive interview with outfitter legend Steve Zettel of Idaho Wilderness Company. Steve discusses the "Not In Wilderness" Coalition, a movement dedicated to preserving the philosophical and spiritual heart of the wilderness experience from the intrusion of modern technology and constant connectivity.

• [00:00] Recap of IOGA Lobby Day: Feeding over 200 people at the Basque Center and meeting with over 40 legislators, including the Governor and Lt. Governor.
• [03:00] Legislative Wins & Watches: * SB 1238: The withdrawal of the 30-day notice bill for season setting.
  • SB 1241: Protecting the right to use working animals (dogs, horses, mules).
  • HCR 26: The push for wildlife crossings to reduce big game mortality and improve public safety.
• [06:40] Dueling Constitutional Amendments: Breaking down HJR 8 (Raybold) and SJR 103 (Adams) regarding the future of public land management in Idaho.
• [09:15] The Economic Impact of Public Lands: Previewing a major report on the $838 million annual federal spend on Idaho lands and the 244,000 jobs they support.
• [14:40] Upcoming Events: Information on the THAW Annual Gala (Feb 26) and the Salmon Chapter meeting (March 17).
• [16:52] Interview with Steve Zettel: * Defining the "Wilderness Experience" in the digital age.
  • The mission of the Not In Wilderness Coalition.
  • Why keeping technology out of the backcountry is a moral obligation to future generations.
  • The future of wilderness management and the 1964 Wilderness Act.

• Legislation: HJR 008, SJR 103, SB 1241, HCR 26.
• Guest: Steve Zettel, Idaho Wilderness Company
• The Not In Wilderness Coalition: notinwilderness.com | Instagram: @notinwildernesscoalition
• The THAW Gala: Join us February 26th at JUMP in Boise! Get your early bird tickets before February 15th at idahooutfitters.org.

In this week’s episode of the IOGA podcast, hosts Erik Weiseth and Jack Hurty break down the high-stakes legislative and federal issues currently facing Idaho’s outfitting and guiding industry. From "dueling" constitutional amendments at the State House to the potential "Pandora's Box" of Resource Management Plan (RMP) challenges, this episode covers the critical updates every member needs to know.

The highlight of this week’s episode is a deep-dive interview with Roy Akins, a living legend in the Idaho guiding community. Roy is the owner of Rapid River Outfitters in Riggins and a tireless advocate for the recovery of salmon and steelhead.

• Advocacy in Washington D.C.: Roy and Jack share behind-the-scenes insights from their recent trip to the nation's capital. They discuss the critical mission of educating lawmakers on the economic necessity of anadromous fish and the direct impact of declining runs on rural Idaho "river towns".
• The "Salmon Survival Swim": Beyond policy, the conversation takes a legendary turn as Roy details his "Salmon Survival Swim"—an incredible feat where he swam the entire length of the Salmon River.
• A Call for Future Legends: In a moment of classic river-runner wit, Roy mentions he is looking for a partner to join him in doing the swim again. Host Erik Weiseth’s immediate response? "Sign me up!".

• Legislative Watch: Updates on Representative Raybould’s and Senator Adams’ competing public land amendments.
• Federal Concerns: Analysis of Steve Pierce’s nomination for BLM Director and why his past statements on land sales have IOGA on high alert.
• Community Events:
  • Lobby Day (Feb 4-5): Why your RSVP is essential for our planning at the State House and the kitchen.
  • The Thaw (Feb 26): Join us at JUMP in Boise for our annual gala featuring a live auction with world-class trips on the Main Salmon, Selway, and more.
• New Reading: We celebrate the release of Doug Timms’ new book, Selway, the Original Wild and Scenic River, which explores the history and management of this iconic wilderness waterway.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and State House Updates
• 05:02 Promoting Outdoor Adventures in Idaho
• 12:23 Idaho Association of Counties Midwinter Conference
• 17:35 Advocacy and Platform Use
• 35:34 Advocacy and Long-Term Commitment