Hunting in Canada: What to Expect

If you’re planning on hunting in Canada, it’s important to know where to go, which animals you’ll find there, and what gear you’ll need.

Canada is known for its vast wilderness, diverse wildlife, and world-class hunting opportunities. From the Rocky Mountains to the boreal forests, the country offers a wide range of landscapes, making it a dream destination for hunters. 

Whether you’re after big game like moose or black bear, or small game such as waterfowl and upland birds, hunting in Canada has something for every outdoorsman. To make the most of hunting in Canada, it’s important to know where to go, which animals you’ll find there, and what gear you’ll need.

Big Game Species in Canada

Moose: One of the most sought-after game animals in Canada, moose are found in almost every province. The highest densities of moose are in Newfoundland, but other good choices for moose hunting include British Columbia, Alberta, Quebec, and Ontario. There you’ll find moose inhabiting boreal forests, wetlands, and rugged wilderness areas.

Whitetail deer: They’re common in many parts of the country, but particularly provinces with milder climates and ample vegetation. This includes Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario and the southern and central parts of Quebec and Alberta. Saskatchewan notoriously produces trophy-class whitetails, drawing hunters from around the world. In many regions, deer season overlaps with the rut, which offers hunters plenty of opportunities to track and hunt mature bucks.

Mule deer: These deer are more localized and typically found in the western provinces like Alberta and British Columbia. These deer prefer open grasslands, foothills, and mountainous regions, making Alberta’s prairies and the Rockies prime mule deer hunting grounds.

Bears: Black bear hunting is popular all across Canada, with healthy populations found in the dense forests of British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario. If you’re after a true wilderness experience, remote regions in northern Quebec and Labrador are also great spots for black bear hunting. But if you need an even bigger challenge, grizzly bear hunting is available in British Columbia. Do keep in mind that grizzlies are typically found in remote, mountainous areas, which requires significant preparation and patience.

Need to more info on hunting bear? Checkout our Best Calibers For Hunting Bear article

Caribou: Although populations have fluctuated in recent years, this iconic species of the Canadian wilderness can still be hunted in Newfoundland, Labrador, and Quebec. Some of the last remaining migratory herds in North America roam the northern tundra, offering a remote and rugged hunting experience.

Elk: Elk thrive in the forested foothills and mountainous regions of Alberta and British Columbia. Alberta’s Rocky Mountains offer some of the best elk hunting in the country, with opportunities for both trophy-class bulls and meat hunters.

Small Game and Waterfowl

Canada is a waterfowl hunter’s paradise, especially in the prairie provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba, where thousands of lakes and wetlands attract migrating ducks and geese each fall. These provinces are known for their dense concentrations of mallards, pintails, and Canada geese. Saskatchewan is particularly famous for its excellent duck hunting, while Manitoba’s wetlands offer some of the best goose hunting in North America.

Upland bird hunters will find wild turkey hunting primarily in southern Ontario, where populations have flourished in recent years. Grouse and pheasant are also abundant in the prairies and woodlands of Alberta and Saskatchewan.

Essential Gear

Hunting in Canada can mean dealing with extreme weather conditions and challenging terrain. Making sure you’re adequately prepared with the right equipment will set you on the path to success.

Optics: When you’re hunting in Canada’s vast landscapes, quality optics are essential for spotting game at long distances. The unparalleled clarity and light transmission of TORIC UHD Binoculars make them perfect for early morning or late evening hunts. Need a closer look at faraway game? A spotting scope can help close the distance.

Rifles and Ammunition: Given the variety of big game species in Canada, you’ll want to bring a rifle that’s versatile enough to handle everything from moose to deer. A .30-06 or a .300 Winchester Magnum are popular choices for big game hunting in Canada. Make sure to use premium ammunition suited for the species you’re targeting.

Clothing and Footwear: Hunting in Canada can yield unpredictable weather. So dressing in layers is key. Invest in moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers to stay dry and comfortable. In colder months, insulated gloves, hats, and boots are critical to avoid frostbite or discomfort in freezing temperatures.

Backpack and Gear Storage: A durable, weatherproof backpack will protect your optics, ammunition, and other gear. Look for backpacks that offer compartments for easy organization and external straps for carrying bulky items like tripods or hunting blinds.

Scent Control: Many of Canada’s big game species have an incredible sense of smell. Using scent control sprays, washing your gear in scent-free detergent, and paying attention to wind direction can help you stay undetected.

Plan Your Canadian Adventure

Hunting in Canada offers some of the most thrilling and rewarding experiences in the world. With the right knowledge of where to hunt and the proper gear in hand, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and unforgettable hunting trip. Click here to explore our full selection of premium optics so you’re prepared the next time you’re hunting in Canada.

Learn more about the full line of TORIC binoculars and which magnification and objective size is right for you