5 tips to prepare for moose hunting in 2022
Moose hunting is a must for forest enthusiasts in Quebec. Our beautiful province is full of forests, lakes, and rivers, providing perfect conditions to spot this majestic cervid. Here are some practical tips to help you come home with a great set of antlers!
Essential gear for any situation
Your gear will be your best friend in the forest. You will often need to cover long distances before encountering an animal and will be exposed to the elements. The best hunting areas are often in remote regions, so preparation is essential to hunt safely and properly. What should you bring to moose hunting? First, make a checklist. Then, don’t forget these essentials:
The essentials:
- Your firearm and ammunition
- Safety vest
- Call horn for moose
- Knife
- Matches
- Water bottle
- Waterproof boots
- GPS
- Satellite phone
- Urine
- Headlamp
- First aid kit
- Emergency number
- Binoculars
Several complete and free checklists are available online. Download and print the Airmedic-certified checklist to keep track of everything.
The best hunting season for moose
Hunting dates vary depending on the zone and weapon used. Always check your region’s regulations. Some wildlife reserves or areas may still be off-limits.
The season generally runs from late August to October. For this reason, we recommend checking the official Quebec website for exact dates.
The best times of day to hunt moose are the first two hours after sunrise and the last two hours before sunset. During these times, moose are more active, the temperature is cooler, and the wind is often calmer, allowing your calls to carry further.
Moving around the territory
Moose dominate Quebec’s forests, so every detail counts to increase your chances of seeing one. Many ZECs, outfitters, and wildlife reserves offer excellent hunting territories. Remember that conditions vary depending on the area.
Each location comes with its challenges:
- Terrain
- Temperature
- Access for emergency services
- Preferred modes of transportation
Check with local authorities to see if the area is accessible by road with a regular vehicle. You will probably want to opt for a 4×4 vehicle if the roads are rough. Off-road vehicles will be your greatest allies in large, rugged areas. They will allow you to cover more ground while transporting all your equipment. They will also be useful for bringing the animal back.
Keep in mind that if you need an ATV to get around, there is a good chance that the area is not accessible by land for emergency services. Otherwise, you will probably want to opt for a helicopter medical assistance service.
Did you know that some insurance companies cover or offer up to a 30% discount on this type of protection? So you can leave with peace of mind knowing that not only is your recreational vehicle protected, but your health is too.
For more benefits and tips for your recreational vehicles, visit the Beneva website.
Practice moose calling
Mastering the calls is a necessary skill during moose hunting. It’s a way to communicate with the big game and also shows your understanding of the animal.
It is strongly recommended that you practice throughout the year. Whether in the car or even in the shower, you will be grateful for this practice time when you see the king of the forest appear before you. Once you have mastered the sounds, you can add your hands or a horn. The horn will allow you to carry the sound over greater distances.
There are different techniques and tones. Practice both the female moose calls and the “buck” calls. Remember the sound comes from your belly. Consider taking a course on the different calls and techniques.
Prepare to bring your moose home
With a little luck and a lot of preparation, you will have the pleasure of bringing home a beautiful deer! Be prepared for this. You don’t want to find yourself with a dead animal and no means of transporting it home.
- Know the local butchers near your hunting site and have access to a cold storage quickly.
- Make sure you have the necessary means to transport the moose. Depending on the area, you may need a sled, harness, or ATV.
- Don’t forget your phone or camera to take a picture with your harvest!
Good luck and have a great hunting season!
