Where to hunt Shiras Moose
Shiras moose is the smallest of the four North American kinds of moose, in terms of both body and antler size. At the same time, this species is one of the most coveted by trophy hunters. The range of Shiraz moose covers the Rocky Mountains as far South as Colorado and Utah. Unfortunately, at the southern part of its range the species numbers are negatively affected by climate change and predation from reintroduced wolves. By far the best destination for a trophy hunter wishing to harvest a Shiras moose is the Canadian province of British Columiba, with hunting opportunities existing also in Alberta.
Price distribution
Shiras moose hunts start at about $6,000 and go to $11,000. The price usually reflects probability of harvest an above-average trophy. In some cases it’s possible to combine a Shiras moose hunt with a hunt for mule deer or other species. With most outfitters, you could harvest also a Black Bear, Wolf and deer for the price of a tag.
Learn more from our blog story
Shiras moose is perhaps the most difficult species of moose to harvest, given that the tag is so hard to draw, and in Idaho, the home state of BookYourHunt’s Director for America James Reed, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Read how James and his son turned a once-in-a-lifetime tag into a once-in-a-lifetime success.
6 Jun 2016 Slugging the HulkWhen to hunt Shiras Moose?
Shiras moose hunting season in British Columbia and Alberta starts in early to mid August and may run to mid or late November. Specific dates depend on wildlife management area and weapon type (archery only or any weapon); ask your outfitter for details or make sure with the relevant regulating bodies. Most outfitters believe the best time for hunting is the first two weeks of October or the first two weeks of November.
Hunting methods
Most trophy hunts take place during the rut. Moose bulls challenge each other for dominance and territorial control. By imitating a rival bull hunters can get the moose in range but beware: during the rut bull moose are very aggressive, and many believe them to be more dangerous than even bears. Typically, North American moose guides combine calling with spot-and-stalk hunting, switching from one method to another if necessary.
Why hunt Shiras Moose?
The moose (Alces alces) is the largest of the world’s deer species and their large size, impressive antlers, and delicious meat makes them highly sought after by big-game hunters around the world. Moose hunts take hunters to regions well off the beaten track, and hunting moose, as well as recovering the animal, can be extremely challenging, especially in remote country. While Shiras moose is one of the smallest kinds of the great deer, it is also one of the rarest moose trophies, and its adaptation to life in the Rockies make as unique as the gret mountains it inhabits.
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