CANADA: BC - SHIRAS MOOSE HUNT (COMBO)

British Columbia Shiras Moose hunts can be offered during two strategic seasons. Peak rut hunts occur in the first two weeks of October, while late-season hunts occur in the last two weeks of November.

- Mule Deer: Combinable during the Oct. rut hunts for a flat rate trophy fee - season closes Nov. 10.
- Whitetail Deer: Available in both the Oct. rut and Nov. late seasons for a flat rate trophy fee.
- Mountain Lion: Available during the Nov. late season hunts as a combination package.
- Lynx: Available during the Nov. late season hunts for a flat-rate trophy fee.
- Bobcat: Available during the Nov. late season hunts for a flat rate trophy fee.
- Wolf: Available as targets of opportunity during both the Oct. and Nov. seasons for a trophy fee.

These BC Moose hunts are 7 full days, and professionally 1x1 guided. The October rut hunts use classic Moose rut hunting tactics, which largely include calling and glassing strategies in known Moose rutting areas. Hunts often begin from a 4x4 vehicle along old logging roads to access these hot spots. Call and glass intermittently from good vantage points until a trophy bull is located.

The late November season has the rut concluded and calling tactics are no longer effective. At this time of year Moose transition from rutting areas and concentrate in traditional feeding and overwintering areas, such as appropriately aged logged or burnt areas with plenty of brows to feed on. The land is usually snow-covered this time of year, which assists in finding fresh Moose sign quickly. 4x4 vehicles or snowmobiles are used as needed, and the hunt is generally done by glassing or spot and stalk tactics.

Most clients bring proven, personal rifles from home, as non-residents entering BC, Canada with firearms for the purposes of hunting is relatively quick and simple. Moose living in this environment often see typical shot ranges of around 150-350 yards. Recommended firearms should be roughly .30 caliber and flat shooting. The same rifle would work fine for any combination options for species like deer, cats, and wolves. Quality rifle rentals and ammo can also be rented by international clients at a price of $300 for the duration of the hunt.

Archery Shiras Moose hunting is more feasible during the rut, when Moose can be called in, versus late-season glassing-type hunts. But everything is possible in the hands of an experienced and practiced archery hunter with a capable guide. Typical shooting ranges would be 30-50 yards or slightly further.

These Moose hunting packages occur in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley between Kelowna and Penticton. Known as Canada’s spring break destination, Kelowna is also dubbed “Napa Valley North”. The region is a microclimate renowned for its scenic beauty, fruit farming, vineyards, wineries, and acclaimed restaurants. Kelowna and Penticton's full-service airports are located roughly an hour and a half drive to the lodge. Despite proximity to town, the region is remote and difficult to access, with vast swaths of the outfitting territory remaining virtually un-hunted. The best Shiras Moose hunting areas, however, are largely sub-alpine timber interspersed with logged or burnt areas at relatively low elevations. Some hunting locations can include alpine meadows, river valleys, or agricultural/pasture land fringe habitats, all interconnected by a labyrinth of old, decommissioned logging roads.

Conditions range depending on the hunt and the subsequent season. Early October rut hunts generally see cool to pleasant temperatures as fall colors begin to transform the forest. Rain is occasional but not frequent. Fast forward to mid-late November during the late-season Moose hunts in BC, Canada and snow can be expected, especially in higher elevations. By now fall colors have settled to the forest floor, and northern winds while not overly frigid, bring a chill to the air. Winter is inbound and temperatures slightly below freezing can be expected, especially at night, or at higher elevations. Equipment requirements can vary slightly between rut and late-season hunts, so pack and dress according to the weather. Layered clothing and tailored footwear are recommended whenever Shiras Moose hunting.

The main lodge is a lovely open-concept ranch house, located riverside in a remote valley with great views, and plenty of privacy. It is situated directly in the Moose hunting area to minimize commuting time. There are many creature comforts, such as a full-service kitchen, a large dining room and common lounge, running water, flushing toilets, electricity, and private bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms. Clients also benefit from a pool table, dart board, full Wi-Fi, and cell service.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast line-up including many favorites such as eggs benny, French toast or pancakes, bacon, muffins, yogurt, fruit, coffee, juice, or cereal. Lunches are usually bagged and packed to keep hunters out all day in the field. Sandwiches, wraps, fruit, baked goods, chips, and candy, along with bottled water or Gatorade are common items. Daylight hours are not overly long in the fall so it’s important to make it count. For dinner, enjoy choice steaks, game roasts, grilled chicken, pasta, or pork loins with all the sides and trimmings like veggies, potatoes, soup, or salad, as well as a roving dessert menu!

Destination City: Hunters are asked to arrive in either Kelowna or Penticton, British Columbia, where they are greeted by the outfitter or his staff. The Moose hunting areas are roughly 1.5 hour’s drive from either airport.

Travel Suggestions: Kelowna or Penticton are easily reached via short commuter flights by various airlines (primarily Air Canada and Westjet), with the best connections occurring in Vancouver, BC as well as Calgary or Edmonton, Alberta. Direct flights from the US are also available. The lodge is also accessible by road for any clients wishing to drive in personal or rental vehicles.

After a successful Shiras Moose hunt in BC, skulls are carefully skinned and labeled and hides are fleshed and salted by the outfitter personally. After the season, the outfitter delivers all trophies to a capable taxidermist in the Okanagan Valley who can either do the complete work, or prep, permit, crate, and deliver trophies to his shipping agent or expeditor in Kelowna to be shipped nationally or internationally. Turnaround time ranges from 8 -12 months.

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