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About Idaho

With more square miles of wilderness than any other state in the lower 48, Idaho is where you need to go for excellent hunting opportunities. Elk is the headline species in Idaho but you’ll also find deer, pronghorn, black bears, mountain lions, wolves, moose, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep.

Fishing is no different. Idaho is graced with 26,000 miles of streams and rivers, and over 3,000 natural lakes. From catfish to wild trout, there are 42 species that inhabit Idaho waters.

Idaho’s agriculture industry is no small potatoes, earning the state an average of $27 billion annually. It ranks in the top 10 in the nation for 26 different crops and livestock. Overall, more than 180 different commodities are produced in the state at 25,700 farms across the state.

Potato production is a vital force in the Gem State’s economy as the number one potato producer and accounting for 30 percent of the nation’s total potato production. The seed industry is no small feat, either. Up to 85 percent of the sweet corn seed produced in the world takes place in Idaho.

Idaho Fun Facts

  • Almost every known type of gemstone has been found in the state, including the largest diamond discovered in the United States
  • The state produces 1/3 of all the potatoes grown in the United States.
  • Lobbyist George Willing alleged Idaho meant “gem of the mountains.” The origin was revealed to be a hoax, and Willing made up the word but “Idaho” had already become commonplace.
  • Idaho produces other crops besides potatoes. The state is actually known as the Lentil Capital of the World. It is also known for having one of the largest hops farms in the United States.
  • Heaven’s Gate Lookout, in Idaho, is a location where you can see Washington, Montana, and even Oregon.