Hunting
Alberta’s diverse terrain issues a compelling call to the hunt. In all of the province’s natural regions, hunters of every persuasion come to test their skills and depart with a deeper respect for this land that sustains robust populations of big game, waterfowl and upland game birds.
Alberta Conservation
Modern-day Albertan hunters possess an informed awareness of the need to practise the sport within the limits of sustainable wildlife conservation; not only to protect identified endangered and at-risk species, but to safeguard the health and fertility of wildfowl and big game populations. To learn more about our conservation commitments, visit Alberta Natural Heritage Information Centre.
Hunter Education
Alberta Hunter Education Instructors’ Association offers a number of terrific programs focusing on hunter-conservation education. Particularly popular is their 1st Time Hunter program. If you know someone who is looking to get into the game, this program provides an excellent introduction.
What You Need to Know about Hunting in Alberta
Sustainable Resource Development is your source for sport hunting information. Woe to the hunter who hasn’t read up on the rules, for they are strictly enforced in Alberta.
You will learn about the different kinds of licences and permits. Licences can be purchased at any private licence vendor. Familiarize yourself with what kind of weapons are allowed, what kind of ammunition is illegal, when you can hunt and when you can’t. For a clear description of the sometimes-complex regulatory process, study the Alberta hunting regulations. You'll discover whether you have to hire an outfitter guide or a licensed guide. It may turn out you don’t need either because you meet the qualifications for the hunter host license.
Choosing Your Guides and Outfitters
If you fall into the category of hunters who must have an accredited guide, help is close at hand. Visit the Alberta Professional Outfitter Society where you can access an exhaustive directory of fully licensed, registered outfitters—individuals and organizations—that specialize in guiding big game hunters. If you're interested in hunting on horseback visit Alberta Outfitters Association. For more information, including wildfowl and game bird guiding, check out Alberta Fish and Game Association.
Additional Resources
