Hunt Alberta - Special Edition #5

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The Official Magazine of HuntAlberta.ca

Big Mule Deer – Where, Why, When?

and How do I find them?

Spotlight on Alberta

Antelope – An Alberta Treasure

The Official Magazine of HuntAlberta.ca

The Official Magazine of HuntAlberta.ca

Inside This Issue About

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9

Welcome to Hunt Alberta

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FAQs with Bill Miller

10

Spotlight on Alberta

11

Moon and Sunset Tables

54

Map of Alberta

91

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Species Antelope page

18 page

Elk page

Bighorn Sheep

Bird Game

21 page

Mule Deer 34 page

HuntAlberta.ca & Mantix Media Group Ltd. General Inquiries: info@huntalberta.ca Advertising: ads@huntalberta.ca Website: www.huntalberta.ca

Black Bear 24 page

Moose 37 page

42 page

Cougar 26 page

Whitetail 45 page

30

Wolf & Coyote 49

Disclaimer: HuntAlberta.ca and Mantix Media Group Ltd. provide the content for Hunt Alberta™ and we strive to provide accurate information. The articles and advertisers have not been endorsed by either party and therefore neither Mantix Media Group Ltd. or HuntAlberta.ca will be held responsible for the ultimate quality of the services and/or products contained in this publication. Please do your own due diligence before buying the services and/or products.

There are no guarantees of your satisfaction with the services and/or products advertised herein. “Hunt Alberta™” logo is the property of Trophy Hunters Alberta Inc. We welcome your feedback!

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 5

MOOSE COUNTRY OUTFITTING

•

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Over 30 years of great hunting

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The Official Magazine of HuntAlberta.ca

The Official Magazine of HuntAlberta.ca

Inside This Issue Cover Article

Big Mule Deer – Where, Why, When?

And How do I find them?

First let me give you a little background on myself as this is the first article I have written on one of my favourite subjects – Finding big Mule Deer. I was born and raised in a little farming community in Saskatchewan. We had lots of whitetails around especially on my Grandpa’s farm. In those days (I was born in 1960) there were no mule deer in that country and I grew up hunting whitetail and only hearing about the mule deer on draw in the very 55 south western part of the province

pg

Feature Articles

Antelope - An Alberta Treasure You can’t help but sing in antelope country. The temptation to fill your lungs and yodel can be overwhelming for a city slicker headed out on the hunt for the elusive prairie goat.

59 pg

Additional Articles

Misty River Black Bears

62 Alberta Point Blank: pg Archery Elk Rut

65 Close Quarters!

68 pg Mule Deer Meets Arrow pg Hunt Alberta – get the facts 7

The Official Magazine of HuntAlberta.ca

The Official Magazine of HuntAlberta.ca

Inside This Issue Additional Articles

Buck Fever

74 Hard-Won Ram pg

79 Wolf Dreams pg

82 pg

Military Rations: A Father and Son Moose Hunt It began with an idea. Mirek Rezek visualized it in the foreground of his mind.

It would be a gift to his son, and in a way, to himself. It would be a rare chance to bond together in the North, on a father and son Moose hunt 71 before Craig joined the US Marine Corps the following February.

pg

Brock Lesnar: Taps Out Whitetail

Brock Lesnar, the “baddest man on the planet,” took southern Alberta by storm at the tail end of 2010. He bagged two trophy deer in less than four days - a Muley and a Whitetail. The first was, in Brock’s words, “...a respectable, male deer buck”. The latter won Largest Whitetail in the province—nearly taking Brock’s arm off in the process. Brock's visit to Alberta will not be soon forgotten by him or anyone else involved in this captivating wilderness adventure.

87 Here is the story of Brock Lesnar's ultimate hunt.

pg

8 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Welcome to Alberta Hunt Alberta™ magazine provides details on the variety of hunt opportunities throughout our bountiful province. We also include several hunting articles that offer the personal story of individual hunters. Additional information such as FAQs, Maps and Moon & Sunset Tables are provided to assist hunters with preparation of their next hunt.

Alberta offers some of the best archery and rifle hunts for non-residents. We are the destination of choice for thousands of hunters worldwide. Alberta has dominance throughout the record books and continues to harvest quality game year after year.

Our province offers a variety of big game, predominantly Mule Deer, Moose, Whitetail and Elk. Alberta is known for our quantity and quality of big game. From first-time to experienced hunters, our Outfitters strive to obtain your next trophy animal.

Many hunters choose combination hunts to take advantage of the diversity of wildlife unique to our province. There is no other province or state that compares with our selection of game and varied terrain. This makes Alberta the primary hunting destination for fellow Canadians, Americans and big game hunters from around the world.

Non-resident hunters are required to be accompanied by a licensed guide obtained through a professional Outfitter. Each Outfitter has allocations in particular Wildlife Management Units (WMUs). The province is divided into 178 WMUs. There are five regions: Prairie (100s) – 30 WMUs, Parkland (200s) – 35 WMUs, Foothills (300s) – 42 WMUs, Mountain (400s) – 29 WMUs and Boreal (500s) – 42 WMUs. Each WMU offers a variety of opportunities as the terrain and habitat change dramatically throughout the province.

Alberta is unique with our “guaranteed tag” system. This allows many hunters to return annually without the concern of obtaining licenses through a lottery or complicated draw system.

If you are planning your first trip or are returning to our province, we offer contact details for “Certified” Outfitters.

We ensure that all Outfitters listed in this magazine are fully licensed, bonded and insured. We represent the best Outfitters in the province.

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 9

FAQs with Bill Miller North American Hunting Club’s Executive Producer, Bill Miller offers his personal advice on hunting big game in Alberta.

Fitness Counts

Paperwork

Optics for Big Country

Joys of Horseback Hunting

New Passport Regulations

Hunting Rig For Big Mulie Bucks

NAHC’s Bill Miller always heard of this region of Alberta called the Porcupine Hills. The term “small mountains” would be a lot more accurate. And the unexpected terrain drives home the importance, once again, of getting into shape going into hunting season!

As long as the riding doesn’t catch you by surprise, horseback is a great way to cover ground and get close to game when you’re hunting big country like Alberta’s Porcupine Hills. NAHC’s Executive Director Bill Miller shares some tips on prepping yourself and your gear for your next mounted hunting adventure.

Source: www.huntingclub.com 10 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Licenses, itineraries, airline tickets, gun permits and more! Seems like there’s more paperwork required every single time we want to go hunting. NAHC’s Bill Miller has traveled the world for years and offers some sage advice on managing and organizing the unavoidable paperwork!

Seems like the regulations about hunters leaving and getting back in the United States change every week. NAHC’s Bill Miller contends it’s best to error on the side of “over compliance” rather than getting stuck outside the good ol’ USA.

This mule deer hunt with Trophy Hunters Alberta turns out to be one of the most optics intensive hunts NAHC’s Bill Miller has ever faced. See what gear he chose in preparation to see everything!

In Alberta’s Porcupine Hills with Trophy Hunters Alberta you’re after big mule deer bucks, and the shots could come at maximum ranges. That combination of probabilities has Bill Miller thinking it’s time to pack along a .300 Mag., premium ammo and good optics.

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Spotlight on Alberta

by Ken Nowicki

From mountains to prairies, Alberta nurtures healthy numbers of some of this continent’s greatest game – and it invites hunters to accept the challenge!

The province of Alberta was named for a princess, the daughter of Queen Victoria. Just like a royal lady, she contains areas of great beauty and her good looks mantle a heart of gold. She has a handbag full of surprises and a sunny disposition, but please never cross her. Even a lady can have her moods.

Her hunting tradition is long and venerable. The fur trade started opening the west and north, for Alberta extends to both of those extremes. Then came the pioneers and the cattlemen of the 1800’s, remembered in the famous Calgary Stampede and the Edmonton Klondike days. The historic past still live in the names of the early forts like

Macleod, McMurray, and Vermillion. Many tribes of Indians live on reservations established in these early days.

Men of vision set aside large national parks in recognition of the singular and unique beauty of the Rocky Mountain front ranges. Waterton, Banff, Jasper continue to attract worldwide visitors to their awesome beauty. Alberta’s front ranges are different from the mountains to the west in British Columbia. The Rockies get snow, but never too much. The valleys are verdant, but they retain plenty of the exposure and grassy areas so necessary for game. Timber is sturdy, but not so desirable as to inflame man’s greed for same.

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 11

These mountains contain all the usual mountain game – sheep, goats, cougar, and elk. But, much like Montana, in Alberta there are also Great Plains and prairies containing lots of cactus, rattlesnakes, and antelope that stretch eastward from the mountains.

Large parkland regions are rich with dark soil and grain fields that skirt pothole ponds and aspen stands. These are ideal for such game as mule deer, whitetail, geese and ducks. The remaining majority of Alberta’s 280,000 square-mile area is northern bush, and it serves as home to moose, wild buffalo, bears, and wilderness lakes forming a vast waterfowl hatchery. The variety of geography means diversity in habitat and a host of different species.

Perhaps most important of all, Alberta game lives in a land of climatic conditions ranging between extremes. At the 49th Parallel, the summer sun bakes the prairie grass and cactus to near-desert conditions. Yet the northern fringe of bush contains areas verging on permafrost. The winters can be bitterly cold, but occasional Chinook winds blow warmth and life onto the land.

Alberta game must be robust to take these conditions, and the consequent results have been genetic superiority. For the hunter, this means that Alberta produce an extraordinary number of exceptional

trophies, despite the rather modest populations of most big game.

Of course, you cannot maintain quality without first-class wildlife management. Over the past decade, Albertans have taken steps to nurture their wonderful resources. Changes have been instituted to balance the needs of all the diverse interests that impact wildlife.

Limited area draws now provide quality hunting in areas where overharvest had been a symptom of easy access. Other regions have been set aside as pure wilderness for traditional packtrain hunting.

Many of Alberta’s wildlife management policies are continually discussed and negotiated between three organizations (Government via Sustainable Resource Development, Resident Hunters via the Alberta Fish and Game Association, Non-Residents and their Outfitters via the Alberta Professional Outfitter Society). Government, hunters and outfitters alike point with pride to the outfitter policy that has provided standards and bonding requirements to enhance the long-standing professionalism in the overall non-resident hunting industry in Alberta. At times the three groups may disagree on the best path to move forward on individual issues. Yet despite storm clouds of change and controversy, and perhaps in keeping with Alberta’s vast distances and differences, she remains overall a wonderful place to hunt.

Bighorn Sheep

Bighorn sheep were the premier trophy during the halcyon days of outfitting. Packtrains of wealthy sheep hunters once combed the Rockies in search of the great rams. The legendary Jack O’Connor took his best bighorn there back in the 1940’s. Alberta still attracts those seeking the finest in wilderness sheep hunting.

day’s ride from O’Connors’s old stomping grounds. Sheep hunting season runs in September and October when the mountains are most beautiful. Nonresidents; success is nearly 50 percent most years, and Alberta bighorn hunts command top dollar. Only rams with 4/5 curl or better are legal.

On an outfitted hunt, a non-resident took a ram scoring well over 190 points on a mountain overlooking the Smoky River and less than a

A unique opportunity awaits the adventurous bowhunter who reserves a hunt in the highly sought after areas that have limited hunt

12 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

opportunities. It is perhaps the best option in North America to take late-fall hunt while the rams are ewes in preparation for the rut. One great ram scoring over 200 points was twice missed by a non-resident hunter and

finally met an untimely demise while crossing the highway that transects the zone just a few years ago. Wellknown bowhunter Chuck Adams scored on a tremendous broomed ram in this zone.

Elk

Elk herds in Alberta are spread throughout the province however non-residents are limited to hunt elk in the foothills and mountain areas. Estimates suggest 16,000 elk occupy the mountain fringe. There were fewer than 2,000 harvested each fall in recent years. Just as with other Alberta game, the low harvest statistics belie the great quality of some of the elk taken. The present fourth and seventh largest elk ever taken were harvested in the

1970's in Alberta on the Panther and Muddywater rivers.

Some giant bulls continue to be taken each year in the province.

Elk hunts are for the most part conducted by outfitters using packtrain style trips onto public lands. Only a small amount of quality trophy hunting is available on private lands in Alberta.

Moose

Large areas of northern Alberta harbor untouched populations of Canada moose. In recent years seismic companies have crisscrossed every square mile of the northern bush with trails. However, in spite of increased access, there are trophy-class bulls still available to moose hunters in the vast

areas of northern bush and the slopes of the Canadian Rockies. A limited opportunity is available for the smaller mountain moose, which is classified by the Safari Club as a Shiras moose in southern Alberta. Boone and Crockett do not recognize these southern moose as the Shiras subspecies.

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 13

Whitetail Deer Alberta’s whitetail were scarcely touched until the late 1970’s. Nobody paid much attention to them until the whitetail craze in the 1980’s, when an industry was born.

Outfitters started catering to that newfound interest, and record-book heads started coming out of the woodwork.

In the past, first-time Alberta hunters were either ecstatic or disappointed depending what they saw during their hunt. Part of the problem was expectations.

You may not see very many deer on the typical whitetail hunt, but if you do spot a buck look out – he may be a hummer.

For many hunters, patience is required in order to take advantage of the Alberta style of hunting deer. Whitetail Deer numbers dictate the hunting style best used in each hunting area. A big, old 300-pound buck may cover 10

miles a night with ease during the November rut. Hunters typically follow tracks in the snow and push-bush to jump the deer from daytime lairs. For many it was too fast, too noisy, and too difficult to hit the running deer pushed by the drivers. Yet hunters kept returning for chances at quality racks. Estimates are that over two dozen Boone and Crockett qualifiers are taken each year.

Whitetail deer are the focus of many outfitters in Alberta, despite the fact that the outfitting industry for whitetails is under 30 years old. Rapid exploitation of the game of non-resident hunters lead in part to the formation of Alberta’s outfitting policy. While the bush-pushing technique remains productive outfitters today are likely to use the full gamut of whitetail hunting techniques: stand-hunting, spot-and-stalk, rattling, calling, and, of course, still-hunting and tracking.

Other Activities Other all-around activities abound for the vacationing family that seeks a different kind of combination.

National parks offer year-round enjoyment and first-class facilities for skiing, climbing, white-water rafting, fishing, and horseback riding. The winter sports facilities constructed for the 1988 Winter Olympics are among the best in the world. For those with more cosmopolitan tastes, the West Edmonton Mall is the largest facility of its kind in the world. Some tremendous museums are found in small towns like Drumheller and Fort Macleod, which boast World Heritage sites. Drumheller's fossil museum contains dinosaur remains that must be seen to be believed.

Near Fort Macleod visitors can see the Head-Smashed-ln-Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site, where over 5,500 years of bison hunting took place. It is an archaeological treasure as well as a great sightseeing spot.

14 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Antelope

Pronghorn antelope have been open to the nonresident alien hunter in Alberta for just over 20 years. Prior to that, they were restricted to Canadian hunters. The antelope in Alberta fluctuate in population and are at the fringe of their habitat here on the northern Great Plains.

However, there are an inordinate number of very respectable trophies taken each year. In fact, it is a sure bet that the average antelope taken in Alberta is much better than the average taken in areas with greater antelope notoriety. Record-book bucks are taken each year, and many hunters are enthusiastic about the new opportunities for nonresidents.

Bowhunting Bowhunting deserves special mention because of changes that have widened the opportunity for its practitioners.

Archery hunters can hunt elk and moose during the rut before the rifle hunters have an opportunity to disturb the herds. The archery season is long and open nearly everywhere hunting is allowed. There is also special archery only areas, like the Canmore bow zone, where most big-game species are available to bowhunters.

Mule deer and whitetail are the primary species open in the large bow zone surrounding the metropolises of Calgary and Edmonton. Much of the land is carved into small acreages and holdings, but large landowner situations do exist. Some of the deer in these zones are absolutely gigantic, and the opportunity to harvest a bow-killed record is unparalleled anywhere. Residents have been slow to capitalize on this tremendous opportunity. Partly because of the Alberta rifle hunting tradition. However, hunters are starting to recognize the quality and quantity of game in these bow zones.

Black Bear

Black bears love honey, and Alberta has lots of it.

But local farmers have never been pleased with the numbers of bears and the well-known ursine sweet tooth. At one time hundreds of bears were either trapped or shot by farmers and wildlife officials in an attempt to eradicate beehive damage.

Over the past decade wildlife officials have directed management efforts toward increasing the bear harvest.

There is a two-bear limit in both the spring and fall, and many zones are open to baiting as well.

Local hunters generally cruise the oat fields where the bears love to munch of fresh grain, or they visit honey-hive locations or float the bank of rivers seeking bruins feeding on tender spring grasses. A favorite time to hunt is just before the “buds pop”. This refers to the early spring budding on aspen trees. Bears love to eat the sappy buds and are easily spotted in the trees.

Alberta’s bears come in a great range of color phases. Honey blondes and cinnamons are taken up to 30 percent of the time and make a very unique and beautiful black bear trophy.

Approximately 1,500 or more black bears are taken every year, and the recent development of a viable black bear outfitting industry has resulted in many large bear skulls returned for official scoring.

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 15

Guns and Loads One general rule to remember in choosing guns and loads for Alberta game is that all the province’s big game animals are large and healthy examples of their species. For example, deer frequently run 300-plus pounds on the hoof. Similarly, bighorn rams and elk are heavier on average than those found in most game fields elsewhere. Therefore, you need rifle calibers of larger size than are typically used on a given species. Calibers in the .300 range and up are preferable, primarily because of the ability to produce high-energy knockdown power. You should factor comfort and accuracy into your selection.

Equally important is the type of rifle you wish to bring. The style of hunting employed by many outfitters requires long shots. This may be obvious for mountain game, but to many deer hunters it is a new experience. Some of Alberta’s best deer hunting is done in mixed parkland regions, where large grain fields are interspersed with patches of bush on the edges or in pothole sloughs. Some outfitters employ a drive technique to move deer, and the hunter is often faced with rapid shots at long range. Naturally, it pays to make the first shot count but a quick follow-up is often just as important. Some hunters opt for semiautomatics, and at the very least a bolt-action repeater should be considered.

The need for tack-driving accuracy may be called for when running shots are encountered. You just never know on the classic Alberta deer hunt.

Optics should also match the variety of conditions encountered. A scope with a wide field of view will help to get on track with running deer.

Variable settings could also be very useful if a long shot in an open field is required.

16 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Bird Game

Hunting upland species and waterfowl has always been a real mixed-bag affair. It is not uncommon on a prairie shoot to take mallards and pintails. Canada, whitefronted, or Ross geese and fill out the day with some Hungarian partridge, sharp-tailed grouse, or pheasants.

Goose hunting is presently the best waterfowl opportunity in Alberta.

But pockets of good duck hunting still exist in the Peace River country and other select areas where water is still available in the potholes.

Some of Alberta's best duck hunting regions have been lost to the drought and diminished duck populations.

Hungarian partridge are probably the most common upland species since vast grain fields on the dry prairies ale ideal habitat. Pheasants have suffered from the drought and channelization projects that reduced habitat along irrigation canals in southern Alberta. The best shooting is still found near Brooks.

The dedicated bird hunter can still find plenty of sharptails and even more ruffed grouse. Ruffies, to whom the moniker "fool hen" has always stuck, are hardly hunted by residents. Spruce grouse, blue grouse, and ptarmigan can be found by any hunter who desires those species. Small game, like rabbits or hares, are rarely hunted by the average Albertan, but are available to whoever wants them.

Of interest to some game bird hunters will be the combination hunts that some outfitters offer: Part of the week is spent chasing birds, other days entail stalking the browns and rainbows of the world famous Bow River.

Only a few Alberta outfitters cater to bird hunters, as nonresidents aren't required to use guides for upland game or waterfowl. All that is

needed are the requisite licenses and a spirit for discovery. Alberta landowners appreciate hunters asking permission. Many farm and ranch lands remain un-posted. Nonresidents with a smile and a good attitude will find plenty of country to hunt, especially if they venture a good hour's drive or more from the city.

Cougar

Mountain lion (Cougar) opportunities are available on a limited basis to nonresidents and residents alike. Biologists advise that the Alberta lions are genetically comparable to the best from anywhere.

Wolves and Coyotes

Carnivores such as wolves and coyotes are at very high levels following a decade of good winters and high prey levels. The best time to hunt wolves is during the winter however many hunters add both wolf and coyote tags to their big game hunts in the fall.

Extreme cold is possible and rifles should fit when coupled with heavy winter clothing. Cut down the stock if necessary and practice shooting in your winter parka. A silicon-based lubricant will prevent freeze-up, and synthetic stocks mesh well with Alberta’s ever-changing weather.

Alberta’s ever-changing weather.

Most outfitters agree that there is only a very short time available to make a shot on a trophy deer, or on almost any big game species. You need a fast-handling rifle with which you are completely comfortable. When accompanied by a top guide, simply forget your binoculars. You should be immediately taking position to shoot when game is spotted. Rely on the guide’s advice whether or not to actually shoot. Many trophies are lost because the hunter wastes time looking through his binoculars or attempting to find a running buck in the scope.

A fixed bipod can be very useful on open-country hunts in east-central Alberta, where shots can be at extreme range. Throw the sling away and carry the rifle in the ready position. This may dictate bringing a lighter gun on an Alberta trophy hunt.

Shotgun hunters visiting Alberta will find that good ammunition is readily available in sporting goods and hardware stores in all major centers and most small towns. There is no steel-shot requirement in Alberta and you can find all the standard loads. The locals are very fond of pump shotguns for waterfowl and doubles for use on upland birds. Perhaps as a remnant of the British tradition, a surprising number of side-by-sides are still used in western game fields. Shotguns are limited to chambering three rounds total, and all gauges between the 10 gauge and the .410 are permissible.

Ken Nowicki Hunt Alberta – get the facts 17

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Antelope (Antilocapra Americana) Many people are unaware that top quality Antelope hunting is available in southern Alberta, and that Pronghorns inhabit the short grass areas of the province. The long standing record of 86 2/8, taken in 1913 has been bested twice in the last 5 years, and the archery record was established in 2002 at 84 4/8.

Pronghorns are very adapted to life in the grasslands. For example, the sandy colours of their bodies provide some camouflage protection from the barren landscape of the flat lands. With large protruding eyes located further back on their head, they have a wide range of vision so they can see when a predator is coming (up to 6 km away).

Though the scientific name translates to “American antelope goat” the pronghorns are in fact more deer-like and are the only animals having branched horns (not antlers). The name “Pronghorn” comes from the odd shape of their horns – forward facing prongs. Female horns are smaller than males. In the late fall or the beginning of winter, the horns will break off to make room for the new ones already starting to grow in. Pronghorns have a distinctive white patch on 18 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

their rump that they bare to the herd if there is danger. Their main predators are coyotes. Pronghorns are roamers and like to feed off of the grasses and other shrubbery they live near. Pronghorns have good endurance even at high speeds.

Given the opportunity to mature, Alberta pronghorns typically exhibit outstanding mass. Several bucks exceeding 80" Boone and Crockett are taken annually and the presence of these truly big antelope is increasing.A trend towards modest harvest quotas in the province should solidify Alberta's growing reputation as one of the top trophy Antelope destinations in North America.

Archery hunting opportunities for antelope in Alberta are probably without parallel in North America Alberta has plenty of the classic prairie grass and sagebrush habitat usually associated with Antelope hunting, yet hunters will be pleasantly surprised to find opportunities in a multitude of habitat types. Antelope have readily adapted to the plentiful irrigated agricultural areas that have sprung up all over their traditional range. When hunting the 3 major river systems in southern Alberta (the Bow, Red Deer and Old Man) it is very common to locate large numbers of Antelope right in the coulees with the mule deer. As one travels northwards to the parkland fringe, Pronghorn will be encountered in the rolling hills, brush patches and slough bottoms that comprise this habitat. Some of the best bucks are taken in lightly pressured, obscure areas with small populations that retain the single most important variable involved in producing a big antelope; a buck's ability to live to 6 or 7 years of age. When bucks shed hornsheathsaftermatingseason,theyassumefemaleformandbecome difficult for predators to detect. The loss of the horn sheath is unusual; in other bovids, the sheath is permanent. In mating season, bucks are territorial in some populations, harem herders in others.

The tactics for hunting Pronghorn remain relatively common throughout the range of habitats. It is typical for hunters to comb the country by pickup, stopping often to glass likely locations.

Once a suitable trophy is located, an approach on foot is usually in order. As with Antelope hunting everywhere, a hunter can expect to spend a lot of time on his hands and knees or belly crawling.

The Antelope's first line of defence is their eyesight, which is unparalleled amongst big game in the world. Many stalks are blown at the last moment when an over anxious hunter tries to sneak a look before a shot opportunity is presented. A good suggestion is to pack knee and elbow protection to enable low positioning movement forward in cactus and short grass terrain.

Equipment is fairly standard for all western hunts, with top quality optics being the most important item you can bring. A pair of premium quality binoculars and a spotting scope with both window and tripod mounts are absolute essentials. Camouflage clothing is highly recommended and several sage country style products are available and acceptable. Pair of well used, mid-calf length hiking boots is required as well as a warm jacket and gloves. The autumn

weather can vary dramatically from day to day in Alberta and a hunter is advised to bring a variety of clothing options to deal with this unpredictability. A fast, flat shooting rifle complete with a bipod that the hunter is comfortable with is the suggested weapon.

Archery hunting opportunities for antelope in Alberta are probably without parallel in North America. With next to nothing for hunting pressure, the non-resident archer is in for a real treat. The season coincides with the rut in early September and the decoying opportunities abound. Few experiences in the hunting world compare with having a big antelope buck charge in with evil intent while you crouch behind your immature buck decoy, hoping he stops before he runs you over. Spot and stalk and, for the patient hunter, ground blinds over water holes are also tried and true methods of taking antelope bucks. No matter what tactics are used, a quality range finder is the archer's most important piece of equipment. A bowhunter should be prepared to take shots in the 40-50 yard range.

The species reflects the harsh predator regimes under which the American ungulates evolved, for no mammal is more fleet of foot.

The extinct American cheetah probably helped shape the Pronghorn, as did the erratic prairie environment with its grass fires, blizzards, droughts and floods. These factors resulted in a highly social, short-lived species which possesses a large brain indicative of adaptability and learning. Sexes move together and readily travel hundreds of kilometres to avoid bad winter conditions or vacate burned-over areas. It’s very high reproductive rate (twins are the rule) permits rapid restoration of losses from catastrophic kills by blizzards, drowning or fire. A breeding pronghorn’s first litter will be a fawn and then other litters will be twins. Although some prefer to live alone, many stay in small groups in the summer and form large herds during winter. Pronghorns are very active day and night, and tend to balance their time between napping and eating.

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 19

Alberta Top Ten Top Ten in Alberta: PRONGHORN ANTELOPE Score

Date

Owner

88 4/8 87 4/8 86 6/8 86 2/8 86 0/8 85 6/8 85 6/8 85 6/8 85 6/8 85 6/8

2003 2001 2009 1913 2003 1964 1995 2007 2009 2009

F. J. Streleoff Drew Ramsey Jeremy Manning Boston Museum K. R. Heppler Oliver Ost J. Ruschowski Alex Barton Alberta Government Brad McPhee

Pronghorn Antelope Antilocapra Americana Hoofed Animals Pronghorn Family (Antilocapridae) Measurement: Size: 1.25-1.5 m (4.1-4.5 ft) Weight: 45-68 kg (100-150 lbs) Description: Males have a prominent pair of horns on the top of the head, which are made up of an outer sheath of hairlike substance that grows around a bony core; the outer sheath is shed annually. Males have a horn sheath about 12.5–43 cm (4.9–17 in) (average 25 cm (9.8 in)) long with a prong. Females have smaller horns, ranging from 2.5–15 cm (1–6 in) (average 12 centimetres (4.7 in)) and sometimes barely visible; they are straight and very rarely pronged. Males are further differentiated from females in that males will have a small patch of black hair at the angle of the mandible.

Pronghorns have a distinct, musky odor. Males mark territory with a scent gland located on the sides of the head. They also have very large eyes, with a 320 degree field of vision. Unlike deer, pronghorns possess a gallbladder.

Pronghorn can run exceptionally fast, being built for maximum predator evasion through running, and is generally accepted to be the fastest land mammal in the Western Hemisphere. The top speed is very hard to measure accurately and varies between individuals; it is variously cited as up to 86 km/h (53 mph). It is often cited as the second-fastest land animal, second only to the cheetah. It can, however, sustain high speeds longer than cheetahs.

The pronghorn has been observed to have at least 13 distinct gaits, including one reaching nearly 7.3 m (8 yards) per stride.

Range: The range extends from southern Saskatchewan and Alberta in Canada south through the United States (southwestern Minnesota and central Texas west to coastal southern California and northern Baja California Sur, to Sonora and San Luis Potosí in northern Mexico. Pronghorns live primarily in grasslands but also in brushland and deserts. Cougars, wolves, coyotes and bobcats are the major predators. Golden Eagles have been reported to prey on fawns.

20 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Diet: Pronghorn eat a wide variety of plant foods, often including plants that are unpalatable or toxic to domestic livestock (sheep and cattle) though they also compete with these for food. In one study forbs comprised 62% of the diet, shrubs 23%, and grasses 15%, while in another, cacti comprised 40%, grass 22%, forbs 20%, and shrubs 18%. An ongoing study by the Lava Lake Institute for Science and Conservation and the Wildlife Conservation Society, shows an overland migration route that covers more than 160 miles. The migrating pronghorn start travel from the foothills of the Pioneer Mountains through Craters of the Moon National Monument to the Continental Divide.

Reproduction: Adult male pronghorns employ two different mating strategies during the breeding season. A pronghorn male will defend a fixed territory that females may enter or it might defend a harem of females. In areas that have high precipitation, adult male pronghorn tend to be territorial and maintain their territories with scent marking, vocalizing and challenging intruders. In these systems, territorial males have access to better resources than bachelor males.

Females also employ different mating strategies. "Sampling" females will visit several males and remain with each for a short time before switching to the next male. This switching happens at an increased rate as estrous approaches.

"Inciting" females will behave as samplers until estrous and then incite conflicts between males. The females watch and then mate with the winners. "Quiet" females will remain with a single male in an isolated area throughout estrous.

When courting an estrous female, a male pronghorn will approach her while softly vocalizing and waving his head side to side, displaying his cheek patches.

Pronghorns have a gestation period of 235 days, longer than is typical for North American ungulates. They breed in mid-September, and the doe carries her fawn until late May. This is around six weeks longer than the white-tailed deer.

Newborn pronghorns weigh 2–4 kg, most commonly 3 kg. In their first 21–26 days, a fawn spends time hiding in vegetation. Fawns interact with their mothers for 20–25 minutes a day and this continues even when the fawn joins a nursery.

The females nurse, groom, and lead their young to food and water as well as keep predators away from them. Males are weaned 2–3 weeks earlier than females. Sexual maturity is reached at 15 to 16 months, though males rarely breed until 3 years old. The longevity is typically up to 10 years, rarely 15 years.

Sources: www.mountainnature.com and www.wikipedia.org

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Bighorn Sheep

(Ovis Canadensis)

The record books proclaim Alberta to be the place for the finest Bighorn Sheep hunting in the world. Back in 1911, a world record ram was shot in Alberta. That monster was taken by Fred Wyler and scores 208 1/8 Boone & Crockett. While other fabulous rams have been shot in Alberta since then (with many of them scoring over 200 points), only one was bigger than Wyler’s: it was shot in 2000 by Guinn Crousen and tops the 90 year old record by 2/8”.

"The older the ram, the better the ram" is a maxim widely accepted by Sheep hunters. Bighorn Sheep are heavy-horned and, as a result, often 'broom'. ('Brooming' is when Sheep wear down horns, often accidentally, through digging or fighting). A 40-inch ram is the Holy Grail of Sheep, and it is very difficult to find an old ram that reaches anywhere near 40 inches after the loss of the lamb tips from brooming. However, most Sheep hunters value an old, heavy-horned ram as the finest trophy in Sheep hunting; therefore, this task requires a diligent and disciplined hunting practice.

Alberta is home to the heavy-horned Bighorn Sheep. The Albertan Sheep outfitting industry is well respected, and Bighorn Sheep have always been a premier trophy for sportsmen from around the world. Most early expeditions were by pack train in the fabulous ram country near the Rocky Mountain spine as well as in Banff and Jasper National Parks. These front ranges produce fine Sheep hunting, partly because of the consistent warm west winter winds, called Chinooks by Blackfoot natives.

Chinook means “snow-eater,” an apt name for breezes

that clean snow off the west facing slopes. Chinook winds preserve grass for the Sheep, so they stay fat and healthy during the ‘killer moons’ in March and April (when many big-game animals suffer after the typically lengthy Alberta winter).

With plenty of lush grass for the ewes, the mother Sheep are strong and healthy. Well-fed ewes birth big, sturdy lambs. Healthy mothers also give nutritious milk, which will give lambs a healthy start; this results in big-bodied lambs and Sheep, which grow correspondingly big horns in maturity. Generally, adult rams stay segregated from ewes, except during the rut.

Southern Alberta is reputed to have the biggest rams in the province; in recent years, however, hunters have found tremendous Sheep in the north country as well including a few scoring over 200 Boone and Crockett (and the new world record)!

Sheep outfitting in Alberta is largely done in traditional style, with packhorses and tent-frame camps. The Hunt Alberta – get the facts 21

exception is an archery-only zone near Canmore, where much of the hunting is easily accessed on foot. This hunt occurs in the late season and provides a tremendous opportunity to harvest trophy rams with archery equipment. These November hunts can be bitterly cold and require a hardy breed of hunter.

rams seem to prefer the very highest peaks. There is no predicting where you will find rams. Bighorn Sheep are active during the day and generally dormant at night.

Sheep dwell on mountain slopes in summer, and they migrate to foothills in winter. Bighorn Sheep graze during the day, and at night they return to a bedding spot.

Always be safe in the mountains and pack emergency gear. You cannot have too many clothes if the weather changes unexpectedly. Follow safety rules and prepare well, which includes mental and physical conditioning. A good mountain rifle is imperative. Probably more important are the hours spent fine- tuning your shooting skills and learning the trajectory of your chosen calibre.

During rifle season, which is in September and October, most outfitters book 14-day hunts. Hunters should note that few bighorn sheep trips offer combination-style hunts. Seasoned Sheep hunters know that there will be long days in the saddle and that the climbing will be tough on legs and feet. It is absolutely essential to get the body in shape and it is probably just as important to toughen up the mind. You have to rough it a little bit to hunt Sheep and there may be long days and cold nights.

Sometimes the weather will sock in and days could be spent in the sleeping bag listening to the pounding rain or the whisper of falling snow. A great attitude is therefore important to survive a long hunt in the mountains.

Bighorn Sheep have excellent eyesight, and it is almost impossible to approach a bighorn without being seen; therefore, Sheep hunting involves glassing. The best guides will carry spotting scopes and binoculars of the finest quality. Many Sheep behave like whitetail deer or elk these days as they stay in the timber for most of the day. You may have to search for hours to find sheep, and you will often wait until late before leaving the mountain for camp.

Look high on the mountain, but do not forget to search in the valleys as well: big Sheep can be found down in some of the rockiest gorges and in the timbered foothills. Old 22 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

After one trip to Alberta for bighorns, most hunters simply have to return.

Technology has advanced in many ways and the GPS is a great safety device to have in your pack. Range finders can take the guesswork out of shooting. Judging distance in the mountains is easier with the light pocket range finders now available.

Sheep hunting will become a lifestyle, if you give it a chance. After one trip to Alberta for bighorns, most hunters simply have to return. The Alberta wilderness, replete with elk, moose, and grizzlies, is unchanged by time and politics: the Rockies are too remote to be altered by civilization. Indeed, Alberta’s beautiful mountains and Bighorn Sheep are an irresistible draw for trophy hunters.

Alberta Top Ten Top Ten in Alberta: BIGHORN SHEEP Score

Date

Owner

208 3/8 208 1/8 207 2/8 206 3/8 206 0/8 204 4/8 203 4/8 202 2/8 202 1/8 202 0/8

2000 1911 1924 1955 2007 1988 1992 1918 2001 1987

Guinn D. Crousen Clarence Baird Martin Bovey Gordon Magnussen Chad A. Meropoulis Alberta Government Katherine A. Pyra Tom Kerquits Guinn D. Crousen Alberta Fish & Wildlife

Bighorn Sheep Ovis canadensis Hoofed Animals Wild Cattle Family (Bovidae) Measurement: Size: 170 cm/100 cm at the shoulders Weight: 125-150 kg Description: This very common ungulate has a light brown coat and white rump with a very short tail. The horns of the female are short and goatlike, often causing them to be mistaken for the less common mountain goat. Only rams grow the full curl horns for which this animal gets its name. Trophy rams have horns that make a full curl, continuing past they eye. It takes 7 or 8 years to reach this impressive stage and with pressure from hunting outside of parks, such animals are rare outside of protected areas.

Range: Common throughout both the Canadian and American Rockies.

Peak Viewing Sites In Banff National Park, the Minnewanka Loop and Bow Valley Parkway offer excellent viewing opportunities. Also, the Icefields Parkway, traversing Banff and Jasper National Parks, often allows close viewing.

Diet: Bighorn sheep are browsers, relying on a variety of grasses and plants for their sustenance. Grasses form the bulk of their diet, but they will also feed upon numerous other forbs and flowers. They are also fond of mineral licks which help them to replace minerals lost during their summer molt. Their major predators include wolves and cougars.

Coyotes take a few and lynx and eagles may try for an unattended lamb.

Reproduction: The autumn rut takes place in late October and lasts through November.

During the rut, the rams battle for the right to collect a harem of ewes. Much of the male challenges are a combination of show and bluff. When this doesn't work, two rams will face each other, rear up onto their hind legs, and then come down head-on, smashing their horns together. The sound of these impacts can be heard for more than a kilometre, reverberating like a gunshot.

Like elk, the energy expended during the fall rut leaves the rams in poor winter condition, often resulting in a greater mortality amongst dominant rams.

Notes: Bighorn sheep are a constant sight along busy mountain roads. They may be easy to approach, leading visitors to move in for a better photograph. Please keep your distance, and keep highway speeds down to reduce animal impacts.

Source: www.mountainnature.com

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 23

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Bird Game The Boreal and Peace Country in northern Alberta is widely known for its waterfowling. Thousands of local and migrating Canada geese stage in northwest Alberta’s Peace Country throughout September and October. The Peace Country is a large block of parkland habitat surrounded by forests of poplar and mixed coniferous trees.

It is here, near the mighty Peace River, that geese fuel up on protein in the surrounding fields of barley, peas and wheat for the long migration south. Several large lakes and wetlands provide additional staging habitat for migrating wildfowl. Abundant mallards share the same food sources as the geese and are often shot prior to and in between goose flights.

The large wetlands and lakes of the Peace parklands and the boreal forests also offer some of the best diver hunts on the continent. There are literally countless water-bodies throughout the north that have never 24 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

seen a duck boat. Late September and early October is the ideal time to witness the migration of most divers.

Canvasbacks, redheads and bluebills are the most popular and abundant species.

The ruffed grouse is the most abundant upland game bird and certain pockets of the boreal fringe offer the best “ruffy” hunting in the province. In peak cycles, limits of 10 birds are the norm on any given outing. Ruffed grouse, sharp-tailed grouse, spruce grouse and ptarmigan occur frequently in the boreal forests of northern Alberta. Bag limits are liberal.

wintering mallards. Opportunities for ducks and geese exist from early September in the north through to late December in the south. Upland bird hunting opportunities are present throughout the region for ruffed grouse, blue grouse, sharp-tailed grouse, spruce grouse and Hungarian partridge. The high alpine spine of the Rockies also offers opportunity for Ptarmigan.

Parkland Alberta provides a further array of opportunities for the wing shooter. The aspen parkland is home to the highest densities of breeding mallards on the continent, as well as several species of geese including Whitefronted, Canada's, and Snow geese . The migration is in full swing by the beginning of the season in early September, and lasts until the end of October. Many of the best mallard hunts occur on small wetlands, locally known as "potholes". The mallards stage on large bodies of water and at least once a day fly out to feed in nearby fields. The birds will virtually always fly into a small body of water near the field, where wing shooters may seek opportunity.

The parklands contain several large bodies of water, and Ducks Unlimited Canada has a number of flagship projects in the area that offer excellent access to the migrating fowl. These wetlands also offer good early season teal hunting. Upland game birds are also present: Ruffed grouse, sharp-tailed grouse, and Hungarian partridge are common and abundant in the Parkland region.

The Prairies of southern Alberta are blessed with millions of migrating ducks and geese. Host to the Pacific and Central Flyways, the prairies have thousands of acres of staging water with very low hunting pressure. Field shooting of large Canada geese is particularly attractive to visiting sportsmen. The migration seasons begin in early September and continue through to the end of the season in late December, although most shallow wetlands are frozen by the first of November. Southern Alberta is Canada's pheasant capital and the province's rugged pheasant habitat proves to be a worthy challenge to the wingshooter. The Hungarian partridge is the most successful upland game bird in terms of relative abundance, and is the choice target for the upland gunner.

Populations have been extraordinary in the last few seasons, and pressure remains low. A number of outfitters have now offer opportunities to hunt these birds in the farmland with the assistance of good sporting dogs.

The sharp-tailed grouse population is in great shape in recent years and limit or near limit shoots are now common.

The Foothills and Mountains region also offers good opportunities for waterfowl and upland game hunting.

Duck and goose hunting in this region is fairly localized and the majority of opportunities occur along the eastern boundary near to farming country. The region is best known for late season shooting especially in the south.

Rivers, reservoirs and warm water springs throughout southwest Alberta provide refuge for tens of thousands of Hunt Alberta – get the facts 25

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Black Bear (Ursus Americanus) In no uncertain terms, hunting Black Bear in Alberta is exhilarating. Over the years, Alberta has acquired an exceptional reputation for Black Bear hunting. European hunters discovered the quality and size of Alberta’s Black Bears, and the province’s reputation has now spread around the world.

During the 1970s a few outfitters pioneered hunting by boat on some major Alberta rivers, especially in the Peace River country. Many Black Bears were spotted on the open grass slopes of these rivers in the spring.

At the same time, North American hunters discovered good hunting wherever there were forest openings covered with grasses and clover. Black Bears have always been a common big game animal in Alberta’s forests. With various habitats across the province, a bear can be sustained in most regions of Alberta.

An increase in oil and gas exploration over the years has 26 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

facilitated Black Bear hunting. In the clearings and cut lines created by logging or oilfields, there are a number of legumes and grasses bears eat. A Black Bear can often be spotted frolicking among the clover, oat, and wheat fields near a forest or river valley. The food supply generated by these crops make a nutritious choice for the bear, and an interesting hunt for visitors to the region.

There are a number of areas in the province that still remain unscathed by hunting and exploration. Generally the bears in these zones have not seen humans and are a little more apprehensive when entering a baited area.

Several Black Bears hunted in Alberta have broken records with Boone and Crockett and Pope and Young. Several of these record-breaking bears were of color phase. Alberta boasts 50% colored Black Bears.

Several Black Bears hunted in Alberta have broken records with Boone and Crockett and Pope and Young.

Alberta outfitters offer different hunting experiences to meet various hunting styles, expectations, and price ranges. In Alberta, Black Bears can be hunted in spring or fall, although most hunting is done in the spring (as single-species, dedicated bear hunts).

Black Bear hunting in Alberta during spring is truly a fascinating experience. You will see geese, cranes, and other waterfowl overhead, and the vibrant new growth of berries and grasses will surround you. In various parts of the province, you may see wolves, marten, or other elusive animals. Spring hunts also provide the chance to enjoy pleasant weather; however, come with warm clothes in case the temperature drops.

The baiting of Black Bear is popular in Alberta, particularly in the boreal forest and parkland regions. This method became available to hunters in the late 1980s. Recent studies indicate that bear baiting helps promote the survival of sows and cubs, and it decreases the number of human/bear conflicts.

Baiting requires setting up ground blinds or tree stands within close range of the bait. You can often reach these stands by an all-terrain vehicle, boat, or 4x4. Most stands are closer than 40 yards from the bait, which allows for a close determination of the bear’s size and hide quality. Baiting is advantageous for bow hunters who are close to the bait. Bow hunters will enjoy good success and lots of excitement by hunting over bait.

Spot and stalk hunts may also prove successful. These hunts are generally conducted among openings of forest or on open slopes in river valleys. Any area with an abundance of green grass or clover is promising.

In autumn, Black Bear hunts are available as combination hunts

The baiting of Black Bear is popular in Alberta with another big game animal. Baiting, and spot and stalk hunting, can be as successful in the fall as in spring.

Whether hunting with a bow or rifle, the hunter should bring a weapon that he has practiced with and that feels comfortable. If you intend to hunt from a tree stand, it is recommended that shooting practice is conducted from an angle that resembles the hunt, to ensure a clean shot of the animal.

As with any other hunt, it is necessary to be completely prepared for the experience. Questioning the outfitter about current weather patterns and bear movement in a particular area is always a good idea. This will allow the hunter to have a full understanding of the hunt he will participate in.

With a history of world-class outfitters and guides, a two-bear limit, two seasons of hunting opportunities, and—most notably—one of the largest bear populations in North America, it’s easy to see why Alberta has become a popular destination for Black Bear hunters.

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 27

Alberta Top Ten Top Ten in Alberta: BLACK BEAR Score

Date

Owner

22 9/16 22 7/16 22 5/16 22 5/16 22 1/16 22 0/16 21 15/16 21 14/16 21 14/16* 21 13/16*

1997 1999 1983 2006 1992 2005 1999 1983 2009 2000

Jason Johansson Dan B. Pence Darren Daniel Kris Boivin Richard Raiwet Kevin D Martin Frank Royan Doug Shapka Steve Eklund D.D. Crowder

Black Bear Ursus americanus Bears Wild Cattle Family (Bovidae) Measurement: Size: 135-175 cm Weight: 100-150 kg Description: Unlike it's larger and more infamous cousin, the black bear is actually far more wide ranging and in most areas, also more common. Most visitors to the Rockies expect the black bear to be, as its name implies, black. In reality, black bears can be any colour from black to white.

Cinnamon and blonde coloured bears are quite common in the Rockies.

To differentiate black bears from grizzlies, look at the shoulders. Grizzlies have a distinctive shoulder hump, while black bears lack this hump.

From a distance, the lack of a shoulder hump is one of the easiest ways to differentiate the two species. When you look at the face, the forehead of black bears is similar to a dogs, forming an almost straight line from the forehead to the tip of the nose. Grizzlies have a slightly dished in face.

Range: Black bears are found across most of Canada, and in isolated pockets in the northern and western United States. They are found throughout both the Canadian and American Rockies.

28 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Diet: The diet of the black bear is almost exclusively composed of plants with a small amount of meat added to supplement their diet. Most of this meat is primarily composed of carrion, with very little in the way of fresh kill. Bears are not important predators, rather preferring to scavenge on carrion. Through the course of the season, they move through their range, looking for young succulent plants to feed upon. In spring, they can often be seen along side highways munching on dandelions. Later in the season, they reappear to feed on plentiful supplies of buffaloberries Reproduction: Mating takes place in the spring, but like the grizzly bear, they experience delayed implantation, with the fertilized egg floating freely in the uterus for up to six months. Come autumn, if the female is in healthy condition, the egg will implant and begin to develop. The sow gives birth to a tiny cub (often twins) during the winter siesta. The cubs remain with their mother through their first season, and will den with her that winter. Generally, the cubs are evicted in their second season.

This restricts reproduction to every second year.

Notes: While black bears may be commonly seen along highways in the mountains, we must remember that they are wild animals. Please avoid the temptation to approach for photographs.

Source: www.mountainnature.com

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Cougar (Felis Concolor) Alberta’s big game species are reputed as being some of the largest trophies in North America. The Cougar is noticeably included in this prestigious group. Much of western Alberta consists of rugged mountainous terrain that forms the continental divide separating B.C. and Alberta. To the east, the mountains give way to ridges, foothills and adjacent forests.

This area provides ideal habitat for the largest cats North America has to offer, and terrain that differs greatly from most other places Cougars are hunted. One reason for this is biological; a result of what is known as Bergmann’s rule.

Bergmann's rule is an ecogeographic principle that states that: within a broadly distributed genus, species of larger size are found in colder environments, and species of smaller size are found in warmer regions. Christian Bergmann further discovered that animals of the same species possess larger body mass at higher latitudes, due to the fact they need a larger core to survive in the colder, northern climate. Bergmann’s rule helps to explain why 3 Cougar of the current top 10 in Boone and Crockett’s Records of Big Game come from Alberta. The Cougar management strategy in Alberta has separate quotas for both males and females, greatly reducing the likelihood of overharvest of either sex. The result is that hunters have an opportunity to hunt more mature and larger animals.

The Cougar occupies a wide range of vegetation types. It 30 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

is found in habitats suitable for white-tailed deer and mule deer, the Cougar’s preferred prey. In western Canada, it inhabits forested fragments of foothills, mountains, and interior plateaus. Cover is probably the key habitat feature for a Cougar since it is important for stalking prey, establishing den sites, and for basic camouflage.

Cougars live within a “home range,” where their needs for food, water, and shelter are met. Within their home range, Cougars establish personal territories where they defend against intruders. Relatively solitary animals, they discourage other Cougars from entering their territory by leaving “scratches” or piles of leaves, pine needles, and dirt covered with urine and feces. They may also leave claw marks on trees near the edge of their territory. The scratches serve not only to delineate the boundary but also to attract females in heat. Males and females also patrol their territory, keeping track of changes in their immediate vicinity.

Male cougars usually have larger home ranges than females. The sizes of home ranges vary widely, but an

Seeking a successful Cougar hunt in Alberta is met best through good planing, good outfitting, and strong perseverance.

Cougar hunting in Alberta occurs from December 1st through the end of February, and few locales are without snow for very long during this period. A Cougar hunt in Alberta usually begins with the search for a fresh track.

While optimum conditions might result from recent snowfall, a seasoned veteran will seldom give up on a large track without putting in a considerable effort… regardless of conditions.

Alberta emerges as THE destination for a hunter to harvest the Cougar of his dreams. average male home range would cover about 300 km2, and a female’s about half that. The territory of one male rarely overlaps with another male’s territory, but it may overlap that of several females. Where home ranges do overlap, Cougars still avoid each other and remain solitary, gathering only to mate.

Although the basic game plan is the same for most hunts, the execution and details of each hunt can be as unpredictable as Alberta’s winter weather. Even when circumstances seem perfect, the outcome is never a forgone conclusion. Seeking a successful Cougar hunt in Alberta is met best through good planning, good outfitting, and strong perseverance. Meeting a Cougar in the mist of the Canadian Rocky Mountains is a timeless memory not for the faint of heart or the weak in spirit, and the majesty of this mysterious creature remains something truly magical to behold.

As in any predator/prey relationship, Cougar densities are intimately related to prey population. Deer, moose and elk populations (the Cougar’s most common prey) are at all time highs in much of the province, resulting in increased densities of the associated predators. When all factors are taken into account, Alberta emerges as THE destination for a hunter to harvest the Cougar of his dreams.

Cougars are extremely elusive and usually avoid direct contact with people. Masters of camouflage, they often remain hidden when approached closely on foot. While tracking a cougar during winter, a researcher stepped within but 1m of its hiding place beneath a large spruce tree before the cat bounded out of its hiding place, racing away. Tracks and tail drag marks in the snow or mud are usually the only evidence confirming the presence of these secretive, rarely seen animals.

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 31

Alberta Top 10 Top Ten in Alberta: COUGAR Score

Date

Owner

16 2/16 16 0/16 15 15/16 15 15/16 15 14/16 15 12/16 15 12/16 15 12/16 15 11/16 15 10/16 *15 10/16 15 10/16

2005 1999 2000 1973 1988 1954 1999 2003 1985 1998 2002 2006

JJoseph Gore Jr. T.Klassen & J.D. Gordon Roy LePage Walter L. Weller Robert Bryant Edward D. Burton Jesse Dutchik Whelm (Bill) Wrath John Cassidy Brent Salmon Richard J. Howden Tim Gazankas

* indicates taken with a bow.

Cougar Felis concolor The Cats Cat Family (Felidae)

sheep or rarely goats. Smaller prey will be taken in times of desperation, but without a stable population of large herbivores, the cougar cannot survive.

Description: Nothing looks like a cougar but a cougar. If you see a really big cat with a long tail, it's a cougar. Their body is lean and muscular, tawny in colour with a light underside. Their face has a black mask, and the log tail a matching black tip.

Reproduction: The ranges of males are much larger than those of females, and generally overlap one another. This is advantageous in that female cougars can come into heat at any time of the year. Male cougars must take advantage of this limited window for mating.

After a gestation of 90-96 days, the female will give birth to between one and six kittens. They are blind and helpless at birth, and will remain in the den for several weeks. After weaning at 4 or 5 weeks, they remain with their mother for up to two years. They will usually mate for the first time at about 3 years of age.

Range: While cougars once ranged across much of North America, they have been forced into a tiny portion of their original range. Today, they are strictly found in the west, in areas of heavy forest. While rarely seen, they are quite common throughout the Canadian Rockies, and somewhat less prevalent through the more heavily developed American Rockies.

While adult cougars have few natural enemies other than man, the kittens are very vulnerable to predation by male cougars.

Since females generally don't come into heat again until the kittens leave, should a new male move into the territory, he may try to kill her kittens. She will generally then go into heat soon after, allowing him to mate with her. The kittens may also fall victim to wolves, coyotes, ore even eagles and hawks.

Diet: Cougars are extremely efficient hunters. Stalking quietly, they ambush their prey with a sudden attack. They prefer to leap on their prey, clamping down on the throat and severing the spinal chord with their powerful jaws. They may also crush the windpipe by clamping down tightly around the throat. Regardless, the prey is generally one of the large herbivores such as deer, elk or moose. They will also take

Notes: Recently, cougars have been sighted within townsites like Banff and Canmore and have killed one human and numerous pets.

These are very rare occurrences, but highlight the need for most outdoors people and mountain residents to learn more about these powerful animals.

Measurement: Size: 170-270 cm (65-90 cm tail) Weight: 70 kg

32 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Source: www.mountainnature.com

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Elk (Cervus Elaphus) There are few big game animals that captivate the human imagination like that of a Rocky Mountain bull Elk. The mere sight of one of these grand creatures bugling on a misty September morning, or thrusting its way through chest-deep snow in mid-November is enough to make some hunters abandon all trace of common sense and go to extremes to harvest one of the magnificent beasts.

Elk hunting is never easy, but the rewards for patience and perseverance are high. A six-point or better bull Elk placed conspicuously on the trophy-room wall is true testament to a hunter’s prowess.

Alberta has a growing population of Elk (also known as Wapiti) that numbers in the neighborhood of 26,000 animals. They are found predominantly along the eastern shadow of the Rocky Mountain zones (WMUs in the 400s), and in the high basins of the Foothill zones (WMUs in the 300s), although in recent years they have been expanding their range into the forested Northern Boreal zones (WMUs in the 500s) and Parkland zones (WMUs in the 200s). This nocturnal creature is primarily a grazer, feeding on woody vegetation and lichen. Once the velvet of his antlers has been discarded, the bull Elk begins assembling his harem of up to 60 cows. The gestation period for calves is 255-275 days. The Elk's main predator is the mountain lion, and sometimes bears consume the young.

It was at one time thought that all the best Elk bulls in 34 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Alberta were found in Banff, Waterton and Jasper National Parks and that they seldom ventured outside the confines of these protected areas into adjacent hunting zones until well after the season closed. However, in the past few years hunters have been killing an inordinate amount of big bulls in Alberta. This includes a non-typical in 1999 that stretched the tape to over 440 inches and a 414 5/8 non-typical taken in 2002. This is partly due to the fact that Alberta’s Elk mature quickly and it is not uncommon for three-year-old bulls to sport 6x6 racks.

During the late summer breeding season the bugling of bull Elk echoes through the mountains. These powerful animals strip the velvet off their new antlers, using them in violent clashes that determine mating pairs. Males with the bigger antlers, (typically older, more experienced animals) usually win these battles and dominate small herds. In the winter, Wapiti reconvene into larger herds, though males and females typically remain separate. The herds return to lower valley pastures where Elk spend the season pawing through snow to browse on grass or settling for shrubs that stand clear of the snow cover.

Elk hunting begins in late August and early September with the archery season. Archery hunting is permitted in most zones prior to the rifle season, and there are two archery-only zones in the province of Alberta containing strong populations of trophy Elk. Many of the rifle seasons open in mid-September and stretch until the end of November. During the early hunts, when the Elk are in rut, the favored method of hunting is bugling and cow calling. This method involves trying to draw the bull to you rather than stalking or pursuing the animal. In this manner, it is possible to convince the herd bull you are trying to steal his cows, and he will come to confront the challenge. The rut often lasts into midOctober and the action can be as good (if not better) at this time of year, as bulls compete to find the few remaining open cows.

There are more record book bulls being taken than ever before and there are larger bulls being shot than ever imagined by hunters in this province.

with the trusty .270 or 7mm. Rifles should be sighted in for 250 yards for late-season hunts. For early-season bugling hunts, shots are usually under 100 yards and sometimes as close as 30.

Winter often comes early to the high country and warm boots over top of heavy underwear are sometimes not out of place in early September. Late-season hunts, and especially those in the mountains, can be extremely cold.

Good felt-pack boots and warm, layered clothing are a must. Camouflage is a good idea, especially during the rut when you are trying to bugle bulls in. Stick with patterns that exhibit a good blend of green and brown and don’t forget to bring something to hide your hands and face.

Elk hunting in Alberta just seems to be getting better and better every year! There are more record book bulls being taken than ever before and there are larger bulls being shot than ever imagined by hunters in this province. The non-typical record was shattered in 1999 and while Clarence Brown’s fine 1977, 419 5/8-inch bull still stands at number one for a typical elk in Alberta, there is much speculation that that record will also fall in the next couple years.

As the rut draws to a close, bulls leave the cows and begin to form bachelor herds that will often remain together until the following year’s rut. Spot and stalk becomes the method of choice during this period, as bulls are drawn to prime feeding areas to replenish their fat reserves for the impending winter. The majority of Mountain and Foothill hunts are conducted from horseback, and hunters will often spend several days in remote camps within close proximity of the Elk herds. Hunts in the Boreal forest and Parkland regions utilize trucks, quads and good old-fashioned boot leather. Elk will typically lay-up in the dark, heavy timber during the day and are often nearly impossible to approach.

Thankfully, due to their immense body size, they must eat large amounts of food and are usually found moving to or from feeding areas during legal hunting times.

Since Elk are such big animals, rifles like the .300 or .338 are preferred, although many bulls are shot each year Hunt Alberta – get the facts 35

Alberta Top Ten Top Ten in Alberta: NON-TYPICAL ELK Score 444 1/2 414 5/8* 408 1/4 402 1/4 401 3/4 372 1/2 368 367 364 1/8 348 7/8

Date

Owner

John Amberg 1999 Brent A. Kuntz 2002 Steven Steward 1990 Robert Joachim 1984 Harold Vaughn 1964 Norris Bates 1988 Kevin Robinson 1993 Rylan Kerbes 2001 Janet Cameron 1994 Brian Gargas 1989 * indicates taken with a bow.

Top Ten in Alberta: TYPICAL ELK Score 419 5/8 418 402 5/8 402 5/8* 400 7/8 399 1/4 398 394 1/4 394 1/4 393 1/4

Date

Owner

Clarence Brown 1977 Bruce Hale 1971 Henry Folkman 1946 Will Huppertz 2004 Ray Hindmarsh 1963 Ralph Fry 1952 Pat Adams 1977 George Browne 1938 Roy Crawford 1976 Allan Foster 1952 * indicates taken with a bow.

Highlights of hunting ELK in Alberta 1. Elk hunting is never easy, but the rewards for patience and perseverance are high.

2. In the past few years hunters have been killing an inordinate amount of big bulls in Alberta. This includes a nontypical in 1999 that stretched the tape to over 440 inches and a 414 5/8 non-typical taken in 2002.

3.There are more record book bulls being taken than ever before and there are larger bulls being shot than ever imagined by hunters in this province.

Elk/Wapiti Cervus elaphus Hoofed Animals Deer Family (Cervidae) Measurement: Size: : 230-240 cm/140 cm at the shoulder Weight: 300-350 kg Description: This large deer is second only to the Moose in terms of sheer bulk.

They are larger than Mule Deer and Whitetail, as well as the less common woodland caribou with which they are most commonly confused. Elk have a dark brown coats, and bright white rumps.

Unlike Mule Deer and Whitetail, they lack any white on the head. Their antlers can be very large, growing back, almost paralleling the line of the back. There is often a single tine that grows forward towards the front of the nose. Like Whitetail, the antlers begin with a single tine, off of which numerous smaller tines fork. A large stag (often improperly referred to as a bull), may have 6 or more tines on each antler.

Range: Elk are found throughout the Rockies, and are one of the most popular animals in Banff and Jasper National Parks. Recently, park wardens in Banff have begun to forcibly evict the Elk from within the town site in an attempt to return the Bow Valley to a more natural predator-prey regime, Several hundred Elk were removed in the winter of 1999-2000, and an aggressive program of aversive conditioning is being used to discourage the remaining Elk from hanging around Banff town site.

36 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Diet: Elk are not very fussy when it comes to diet. They eat a variety of grasses, flowers, and herbs. They are particularly fond of anything that comes in a planter, making them the bane of gardeners in Banff and Jasper. In the winter, they may strip the bark off of aspen trees, leaving a dark scar on the otherwise lightly colored bark. In some areas, entire stands of trees may show scarring up to the 1.5 m (5 ft) mark.

Reproduction: In mid-August, metabolic changes in male Elk result in the production of testosterone. This begins the process of calcification of the antlers.

As blood flow is decreased, the velvet peels off, and the stags will rub the antlers to remove the velvet. Soon, the stags begin to bugle. This call, once identified, is never forgotten. Bugling serves to attract hinds (improperly called cows) and also to challenge rival stags.

There is evidence that the more vocal the bull, the better his chances of attracting a harem. The stags will size each other up, and may resort to shoving matches as they lock their antlers together. The sharp antlers can also result in some serious injuries.

During the rut, the stag has little in the way of leisure time. He may have little time to feed, and his energy is rapidly depleted through both mating and battling other stags. This leaves him in poor condition heading into the harsh winter. As a result, many dominant stags will not survive the winter.Gestation varies between 249 and 262 days, with the calves arriving in May or early-June. Female Elk can be exceedingly aggressive when protecting their calves. Do not approach Elk at any time.

Source: www.mountainnature.com

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Mule Deer (Odocoileus Hemionus) Alberta Mule Deer are a smoking hot topic for the first-time to the most experienced hunter from around the world.

Mule Deer populations and genetics continue to grow and evolve at the cutting edge of North American animal adaptability. One of the best-kept secrets in the Mule Deer hunting world is represented by the province of Alberta Many hunters are surprised to find that Alberta holds the World Record for Non-Typical Mule Deer at 355 2/8 Boone & Crockett inches. This is a record that has stood for over 80 years, waiting patiently for a new heir to the historic title to arise. Here in Alberta you will find impressive numbers of Mule Deer roaming throughout all parts of the province.

Even more impressive is the size and number of trophy bucks being harvested each year. These great ungulate have access to a virtual bread basket of pure, untainted food and water sources from Rocky Mountain-connected wilderness and agricultural properties that provide an unparalleled source of natural nutrition and enviromental

support systems for the prolific Mule Deer. Furthermore, Alberta has placed almost all Mule Deer hunting in southern and central Alberta on a priority draw system for residents.

This has resulted in improved genetics that are putting big smiles on the faces of our Mule Deer hunters. Muleys in southern Alberta are putting large quantities of healthy, lean and protein-rich meat in the family deep freezers of more and more non-resident hunters every year.

Hunting Alberta’s Mule Deer has far more advantages than ever before. First of all, resident hunting pressure is Hunt Alberta – get the facts 37

large Mule Deer surviving the hunting season and thus propagating their incredible genetic characteristics. These two factors make Alberta arguably the world's best destination for hunting trophy Mule Deer. Thanks to these improved wildlife management policies and the recent string of mild winters, Alberta is widely recognized as North America’s premier trophy Mule Deer destination.

Mule Deer are a widely distributed big game animal in Alberta and biologists estimate their population at around 133,000 and climbing. They are found in impressive numbers from the Montana border North to the Peace River region and beyond, and tremendous trophy potential exists in all areas.

minimal due to the limited license draw system. The Province is broken up into some 180 Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) with most having an allotted number of Mule Deer licenses available. This strictly limits the harvesting of animals from resident hunters.

Ever changing advancements in hunting technology, fish and wildlife policies, relationships with rural land owners and crown property hunting rights are just a few of the recent developments being experienced in Alberta Outfitting industry today. Combined with burgeoning animal populations and leading conservation models, Alberta Outfitters are fully enabled and supported in providing world class guiding for non-resident hunters at an extremely reasonable expense. This makes hunting Alberta an appealing destination for new and seasoned hunters alike. For more provincial information and statistics, visit us online at www.HuntAlberta.ca. Here in Alberta, we understand how important good research is to successful hunting.

The Province of Alberta has the enviable reputation of being the destination of choice for hunters in search of a world class quality Mule Deer hunt. Since the inception of the Mule Deer draw system in the mid 90s throughout the Foothills and many years ago in the Prairies, we have seen a significant drop in the number of resident Mule Deer hunters and a corresponding increase in the number of 38 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Alberta’s Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) have the ability to produce monster (180 to 200+ inch) deer every year and many of them do. Several of Alberta’s better

Alberta’s Mule Deer have some of the largest body weights found anywhere, averaging 250 lbs.

Outfitters are consistently taking deer in the 170-inch range or better and can boast very high yearly success rates near the 100 percent mark for both archery and rifle hunts. Alberta’s Mule Deer also have some of the largest body weights found anywhere, averaging 250 lbs. and often surpassing the 300 lbs. mark with impressive antlers to match. Alberta’s Mule deer antlers are most noted for their exceptional height, incredible mass and dark coloration. A large percentage of the antlers also sport non-typical points, and several bucks scoring in excess of 240 Boone and Crockett points have been taken in recent years. Both the quality and quantity of Mule Deer continues to increase in this resource rich region, as the Mule Deer species moves to mount dominant genetic claim to the land. Here in Alberta, the annual Mule Deer rut takes place primarily during the 2nd and 3rd weeks of November.

With these healthy populations hunters are reportedly seeing more impressive bucks than ever before. The trophy books bear this out as well. Alberta has estab-

lished its place alongside some of the famous Western states for producing large numbers of Boone and Crockett-typical Muleys. In fact, the provincial record for typical Mule Deer was set in 1996 and now stands at 206 points with multiple bucks surpassing the 200-inch mark each year.

The vast and diversified habitat in Alberta offers the traveling hunter a myriad of choices and preferences in hunting areas and techniques. The Southern Prairie zones (WMUs in the 100s) consist primarily of rolling hills with rivers breaks and deep coulees (draws). There are also the cottonwood river bottoms and mixed farmlands in this region. This type of open country is conducive to spotting large numbers of deer every day.

A hard working hunter is likely to harvest an excellent quality Mule Deer in the highly productive Southern Prairie zones.

This does not mean, however, that these deer are always out in the open waiting for every eager hunter to launch another adrenalin filled spot & stalk. These deer have an uncanny ability to dissolve into the landscape, where even an upright coyote can be seen standing at a thousand yards. Make no mistake, a Mule Deer hunt in the Southern Alberta Prairie zones can prove as challenging and invigorating as any Big Horn Sheep or Elk pursuit in the mountainous regions. Often 4x4 vehicles and extensive walking are utilized for access and transport purposes. Ground blinds and open spot and stalk hunting may be employed to produce success. With open space such as this, the adult Mule Deer can see, smell and sense danger at great distances. Many a seasoned hunter has committed the humbling mistake of expecting an easy kill in the early hours of the hunt. A hard working hunter is likely to harvest an excellent quality Mule Deer in the highly productive Southern Prairie zones.

The central and northern areas of the province boast more wooded cover areas, broken up with rich, meadowed farmland that many Mule Deer find irresistible. Several major river valleys also provide excellent feeding areas

where glassing open faced slopes often prove highly productive for spot and stalk or tree stand hunting techniques. In these parts of the province Muleys may be found feeding from the open areas in the late afternoon and returning to cover after sun-up. It is common for Mule Deer to bed right in their feeding areas, especially where resident pressure is more restricted. In these more heavily treed areas of the Parkland zones (WMUs in the 200s) and Northern Boreal zones (WMUs in the 500s), Mule Deer may be hunted from tree stands or ground blinds overlooking food sources and travel routes. This is similar to the way Whitetail Deer are hunted. Once again, spot and stalk is frequently productive in these areas.

The Foothills zones (WMUs in the 300s) contain a wonderful diversity of boreal ecosystems and an incredible variety of plant life, with forests of white spruce, black spruce, lodgepole pine, balsam and sub-alpine fir, aspen, birch, balsam poplar, mixed-wood forests, and wetland complexes. The Foothills provide important wildlife winter range because winters are warmer than in the adjacent Rocky Mountains, therefore increasing hunting appeal. Woodland Mule Deer, Whitetail, Grizzly bear and Wolverine roam widely in the relatively intact areas, and many migratory birds arrive from the tropics in the summer to raise their young. The foothills are similar to the mountain region, but are lower in elevation and generally drier. Forests of spruce, pine and poplar are often broken by tracts of grassland. This mosaic of vegetation provides good habitat for a variety of wildlife.

Hunting in this area is always dynamic and stimulating, with glimpses of a range of diverse and unique wildlife.

4x4s are often employed by trail or through unbroken bush from base camps to explore ridgelines, stream basins, forested, thick-bushed or grassy hillocks and sometimes even hidden canyons of shale rock or secret, winding sandstone coulees.

Last, but certainly not least, we have the Canadian Rocky Mountain zones (WMUS in the 400s) running up the western edge of the province. The habitat and hunting styles are not too different from those found in the mountainous regions of the western United States.

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 39

Many of the more remote areas are accessed on horseback or by walking. Glassing and spot and stalk are the methods used to locate and hunt these big mountain Mule Deer.

Of course, the extended season length is an added bonus when considering an Alberta Mule Deer hunt north of the 49th parallel. In most parts of Alberta, Mule Deer hunting begins in early September for archery hunters and continues for several weeks before the rifle hunts begin. The primary season for rifle Mule Deer hunting is from the last week of October through to the end of November. In the Mountain and Northern Boreal zones the rifle season starts as early as September 24 and continues until the end of November. While big Mule Deer bucks are often more active during the rut, excellent action can be enjoyed during the entire season, and archery hunting is very productive during the earlier seasons. It is not uncommon to encounter bachelor herds of half dozen or more bucks during the archery season. Witnessing a group of big bucks traveling together is a sight not soon forgotten.

Another unique feature of hunting in Alberta is that the leasing of private land for exclusive hunting access is illegal. Everyone is on a level playing field here, so consideration and respect are often the most valuable tools needed for acquiring permission to some impressive hunting areas. This is why established Alberta Outfitters are invaluable for ensuring an excellent guided hunt. This system works in Alberta because of the vastness of the geography and the relatively low hunter population density of the Province, especially in rural areas. When hunters travel to Alberta from around the world, they can rely on their Alberta Outfitter to have already established these valuable landowner relationships that often take years to develop.

The weather can be as varied as the terrain the Mule Deer inhabit and the best advice is to “expect the unexpected.”

It is possible to encounter a snowstorm in late August in the high peaks of the rRockies and it’s not uncommon to have shirt-sleeve days in late November on the prairies.

The best advice is to dress in layers and have enough clothing on hand in case the mercury decides to dip down 40 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

to minus 30. Alberta hunting guides are well experienced in their hunting areas, and are invaluable for assisting their hunting guests in all aspects of their Alberta big game hunt. There are no official blaze orange requirements in Alberta and most hunters opt for camouflage clothing.

Snow camouflage can be a good choice for late-season hunts, but there are years (particularly in the Prairie zones) where there is no snow at all, even in late November.

Rifle hunters are advised to bring a flat-shooting rifle capable of shooting out to at least 300 yards. While Muleys are often taken at 100 yards or less, it can be very rewarding to have the correct equipment option should you encounter a big buck at a longer distance. Archery hunters will also help improve their chances if they are well practiced and confident up to fifty yards or greater.

This is well within the capabilities of today’s equipment.

With the recent trend of mild winters, coupled with improved management and genetics, the possibility of a trophy of a lifetime for a Mule Deer hunter in Alberta is greatly enhanced.

The demand for these high quality, high success Mule Deer hunts is spreading like a prairie wild fire. If you have never enjoyed the unique experience of hunting Mule Deer, or have never taken the opportunity to hunt the Alberta advantage, now is the time to look seriously at hunting Alberta. Many hunters will profess that it was the hunt of a lifetime, and return year after year for a multitude of new experiences and successes.

Alberta Top Ten Top Ten in Alberta: TYPICAL MULE DEER

Top Ten in Alberta: NON-TYPICAL MULE DEER

Score

Date

Owner

Score

Date

Owner

206 205 3/8 201 3/4 201 200 1/4 199 5/8 199 1/2 198 3/4 198 3/4 197 3/4

1996 2003 1989 1999 2005 1997 1981 2005 1960 2003

Chad Lyttle Dean Herron Dale Ophus Bob Lindsay Robert Kutash Gordon Kulak Duncan Baldie Ervin Phipps C. Lundgard David E. Trotter

355 1/4 272 3/8 262 3/8 261 1/8 257 7/8 256 7/8 254 1/2 252 249 247 5/8

1926 1960 unk 1933 1946 1993 1930 1940 1993 1941

Ed Broder Philip Pearman Derold Erickson G. Mahachak Victor Mercier Henry Thomas O. Schmalzbauer J.H. Frey Amos Neufeld Eric Westergreen

Highlights of hunting Mule Deer in Alberta 1. Many hunters are surprised to find that Alberta holds the World Record for Non-Typical Mule Deer at 355 2/8 Boone & Crockett inches 2. Alberta is widely recognized as North America’s premier trophy Mule Deer destination 3. In fact, the provincial record for typical Mule Deer was set in 1996 and now stands at 206 points with multiple bucks surpassing the 200-inch mark each year Mule Deer Odocoileus hemionus Hoofed Animals Deer Family (Cervidae) Measurement: Size: 140-180 cm/90-110 cm at the shoulder Weight: 90-115 kg Description: Our most common mountain deer, Mule Deer have a tawny coat with a light underside and rump. They usually have a light nose with a black tip.

They are often confused with the Whitetail deer, but their large ears help to distinguish the two species. Also, despite the name, Whitetail deer actually have a brown tail (it is white underneath). Mule Deer, on the other hand, DO have a white tail, which is tipped with black. Their antlers are also very different.

The antlers of Mule Deer begin with a single branch or tine. This will fork to create a y-junction. Each fork of the "y" may also branch to form an additional y-junction, and so on. Whitetail deer antlers begin with a single tine off of which numerous branches emerge.Mule Deer also have a bounding gait, with long leaps exceeding 6 m (20 feet) in length.

Range: This western deer is found throughout the Canadian and American Rockies. It is the principal mountain deer, and is much more common in the high country than the Whitetail

Diet: Mule Deer eat a wide variety of grasses, forbs and leaves. Near summers end, leaves form a principal food source, with the diet moving to twigs, buds and branches. Lichens may be eaten.

Mule Deer must be constantly vigilant for cougar, wolves, black and grizzly bears and even lynx (which may take newborn fawns). Their large mule-like ears act like parabolic microphones, enabling the deer to hear almost anything occurring in the immediate area.

Reproduction: The mating season takes place in the autumn, and the males begin to exhibit an increased interest in the does, and a matching distaste for the other bulls in the area. They will spar with the other males, often resorting to antler-linked shoving matches.

Successful bulls will mate with as many females as possible, determining their reproductive state by smelling the ground where the females have urinated. After mating, they move onto the next doe.

The fawns emerge in the spring, like other deer, and the spotted fawns are kept well hidden for a few days until they get their legs. The doe will hide them in the bushes, and wander nearby to feed, returning regularly to nurse.

Source: www.mountainnature.com

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 41

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Moose (Alces alces) Alberta has a long history of producing exceptional trophy bull Moose. Alberta places 3 of the top 10 book Canada Moose, according to Boone and Crockett records. For Safari Club members, southern Alberta is the definitive hotspot for those wishing to take a Shiras Moose placing near the top of the SCI record book..

Moose are found throughout the wooded areas of Alberta, and the ungulates do especially well where there is an abundance of deciduous browse. Burns, logged areas and willow flats provide optimum habitat in the boreal forest and mountain areas of the province. In the mountains and foothills of southern Alberta, hillsides of aspen and willow are noticeably preferred by Moose. The focused expansion of the oil and gas industry alongside active logging effort has improved grazing habitat for Moose in the boreal forest and mountain regions, while also generating practical forestry access for hunters. Wildlife management regulations aimed at ensuring a sustainable harvest have been thoroughly successful here, and as a result Moose numbers and trophy quality are consistently high throughout the province. Moose are found on the rocky, wooded hillsides of the western mountain ranges; along the margins of half a million lakes, muskegs, and streams of the great boreal forest, and even on the northern tundra and in the aspen parkland of the prairies.

Moose have recently expanded their range to include much of the prairie and parkland regions. As shrubs. and decidu42 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

ous trees invade the prairie grasslands due to lack of fires, the Moose have followed the resulting abundance of browse. The lack of major predators (i.e. wolves and bears) has allowed for an unusually rapid population growth. On these farms and ranchlands Moose live much like Whitetail deer, relying on small woodlots and river bottoms for cover and grazing on some agricultural crops. Moose is thought to be derived from the words "mus" or "moos" of the Algonquian (North American Indian) family of languages; thought to mean 'eater of twigs' or 'he strips off the bark'. The Moose population in Canada is now estimated at more than 830,000!

The Moose population in Alberta, as estimated by the Alberta Fish and Wildlife Division, is around 118,000 animals.

A bull calf may develop button antlers during its first year. The antlers begin growing in midsummer and during the period of growth are soft and spongy, with blood vessels running through them. They are covered with a velvety skin. By late August or early September the antlers are fully developed and become hard and

bony. The velvet dries and the bulls rub it off against tree trunks. Mature animals usually shed their antlers between November and January, but some younger bulls may carry theirs through the winter until April. Yearling bulls usually have spike antlers, and the antlers of two-year-olds are larger, usually flat at the ends. Moose grow antlers each summer and shed them each winter.

can often be enticed to close range, bowhunters enjoy excellent success with Moose. In Alberta's more settled management units, rut seasons are usually restricted to bowhuing only. Rifle hunts during the late season are usually .aconducted from stands or by spotting and stalking. Farm houses, motels or comfortable lodges are the typical accommodations during these colder weather hunts.

Most Moose hunting in Albertais Across much of northern Alberta, Those who have experione using all terrain vehicles Moose hunters still enjoy the wilderenced a bull Moose ness adventure of hunting from such as four wheelers, larger coming to a call, red cabins or wall tents. Though often eyed and angry, will tell wheeled, or tracked machines.The spartan, these camps are comfortayou it is a hunting expe- abundance of oilfield seismic lines ble with the glow of woodstoves and rience second to none! and logging trails allows access oil lanterns. Most hunts take place into much of the backcountry. Some from mid September to mid October when the rut for hunts are conducted along rivers using canoes or river these magnificent animals is in full swing. Be forewarned, boats, with hunters stopping to call at likely spots. Camp however; this is not a hunt for the faint hearted! Some- may be set up each night along the river, activating a true times the response of a rutting bull to a call may be too wilderness experience! Another option is the traditional close for comfort. A few cow calls can turn a lovesick, Alberta pack horse hunt in the mountains.

1,200 pound bull to jelly, and he may travel for miles to seek out the affection of his amorous admirer. He may There is more to this than just a great hunt, for the arrive noisily, thrashing trees with his antlers, or some- incredible mountain scenery and a link to an historical times stealthily and unexpected to surprise the hunter with past become an inseparable part of the adventure. his regal presence. Those who have experienced a bull During the rut season, some of the remote northern Moose coming to a call, red eyed and angry, will tell areas can only be accessed by float plane. Hunting you it is a hunting experience second to none! from boats is the norm and a great Moose hunt can often be combined with fishing. Some of these lakes A bull Moose in full spread of antlers is the most imposing rarely see a single person throughout the year before beast in North America. It stands taller at the shoulder you touch down by plane. than the largest saddle horse. Big bulls weigh up to 600 kilos in most parts of Canada. In spite of its huge size and Snow and cold weather combine to offer underutilized ungainly appearance, an adult Moose can run through a opportunities for Moose hunting in some of Alberta's forest at speeds up to forty kilometers per hour. Its legs otherwise inaccessible areas during the late season. are long, allowing the moose to stand in shallow water or Frozen ground and waterways offer access by ATV or move easily through a meter of fresh snow. When it does snow machine unavailable during the rut season! The run, it lifts each leg straight up, making its gait almost weather may be cold during this time of the year, but the comical. This unusual leg action has its purpose; it allows rewards can be great. Some of the largest bulls each the animal to lift its leg easily out of a muddy lake or hunting season are taken well after the rut is over. stream bottom. Their walking stride is 1.1 to 2 meters, but it lengthens to near 3 meters when they trot or run.

Whether with bow or rifle, during the rut or late season,

by ATV, horse, boat or float plane, with accommodation Good swimmers, Moose can move through water at in a classic tent camp, rural motel or comfortable speeds of 10 kph for up to 2 hours. Because these bulls lodge - Alberta has a world class Moose for you!

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 43

Alberta Top Ten Top Ten in Alberta: MOOSE Score

Date

Owner

226 7/8 225 224 222 7/8 222 220 7/8 217 5/8 217 2/8* 217 1/4 217

1978 1960 unk 1975 1947 1984 2001 1994 1977 1986

Tim Harbridge Carl J. Buchanan Gordon Klebe Glenn Dul M. Dominguez Bob Bergera Abe Teichrob F. J. Gimbel Carlysle Baldwin Ed Sikorski

* indicates taken with a bow.

Highlights of hunting Moose in Alberta 1. Alberta places 3 of the top 10 book Canada Moose, according to Boone and Crockett records 2. The Moose population in Alberta, as estimated by the Alberta Fish and Wildlife Division, is around 118,000 animals 3. Those who have experienced a bull Moose coming to a call, red eyed and angry, will tell you it is a hunting experience second to none!

Moose Alces alces Hoofed Animals Deer Family (Cervidae) Measurement: Size: 250-300 cm/180 cm at the shoulder Weight: 450-475 kg Description: The largest member of the deer family, the Moose is a truly northern animal.

It is dark brown with long legs and a very long nose. The shoulder has a large hump, and there is often a dangling bit of hair under the chin (dewlap).

Antlers in the male are immense, spreading outward like two large plates with sharp tines extending beyond the plate margin. A large set of antlers can stretch almost 2 m (6 ft), and weigh 30 kg (66 lbs).

Range: Thriving in the winter climates of Canada, it can be found from coast to coast. In the United States, the wintry environments of the Rockies have allowed the Moose to extend southward to take advantage of deep snow packs and plentiful forage. In recent years, Moose populations have sharply declined in Banff National Park. Wardens believe that this may be partially due to the urbanization of Elk and deer populations which brings increased pressure from predators that would normally select these smaller deer.This is further complicated by the health problems caused by the liver fluke which is often fatal for Moose, while rarely killing Elk.

44 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Diet: Moose are true browsers, feeding on a combination of twigs, stems and buds over the winter The word 'Moose' is actually and Algonkian Indian term translating literally to 'twig-eater'. During summer, they also show a preference for aquatic plants where available.

Reproduction: Moose, like other deer mate in the fall, with the rutting season running through September and into early-October. They do not acquire harems like Elk, but rather marks his territory using urine, scent posts, and wallows.

Rival males are challenged, and receptive females are mated with. Bull Moose will wait several weeks for a cow to come into season if she is not ready when first encountered.

The cow will give birth in the spring, after a gestation of 226-264 days.

Often, she will swim out to an island to give birth, later swimming back with the calf in tow.

Notes: No other member of the deer family is as well adapted to northern climes than the Moose. In winter, when food is scarce and the quality is poor, moose are able to lower their body temperatures to reduce the amount of food required to stoke their large furnace. In addition, their long legs allow them to move effortlessly through very deep snow. Mule Deer and Whitetail movement is hampered by even shallow snowpack.

Source: www.mountainnature.com

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Whitetail (Odocoileus Virginianus) The rate at which record-class bucks have been taken in Alberta has never been higher than it’s been in the last decade… and prospects for the future are brighter than ever. Alberta is home to three of Boone and Crockett’s Top Ten typical and non-typical record setting Whitetail bucks; no other single state or province on the continent has more deer on the list!

Those who really know Whitetail deer hunting will tell you the same thing. In Alberta, not only are there lots of Whitetails - there are big Whitetails! They can be so cunning and so elusive that a great many die of natural causes, never been seen by hunters! There is so much open ground to cover here, it is possible these animals can lead a totally human-free existence, wandering throughout their pristine natural habitat for the entire sum total of their fascinating life cycle.

The common range of these deer continues to expand as they adapt and move into new, productive habitat

created through forestry, agriculture and petroleum development. This has succeeded in creating more hunting opportunities for trophy Whitetail than ever before. In fact, the Alberta government’s Sustainable Resource Development department focuses specifically on developing sustainable infrastructures for hunting and fishing habitat.

An example of the kind of work being done recently in Alberta is the Recreational Access Management Program (RAMP). Some of the primary goals of RAMP are to: Hunt Alberta – get the facts 45

• Create an access management partnership between landowners and hunters and anglers.

• Improve public recreational hunting and fishing access opportunities on private land.

• Provide assistance to landowners to enhance working agricultural landscapes that provide quality habitat and hunting and fishing opportunities.

The Southern Prairie zones (WMUs in the 100s) generally house large populations of Whitetail deer.

Alberta is internationally regarded for having one of the highest percentages of trophy-class bucks within its population of any jurisdiction in North America! Per capita hunting days produce more record book deer than any other region. By the book and by the numbers, Alberta just plain makes good mathematical and environmental hunting sense. The natural resources that exist in Alberta are truly the envy of the other nine Canadian provinces. Spend a week hunting Whitetails in Alberta and you may see some of the biggest deer ever thanks to excellent conservation efforts and established, dependable food and water sources well integrated/mature populations.

Whitetails have successfully adapted to a broad range of habitat types in Alberta. In the southern part of the province, prairie deer thrive in river bottoms, slough margins and any other "pocket" of ideal habitat they can find. The smallest piece of suitable cover can shelter outstanding bucks who have learned the hard way the coveted wilderness secrets of living in a fragmented landscape. The Southern Prairie zones (WMUs in the 100s) generally house large populations of Whitetail deer. Alberta Outfitters have mastered the hunting techniques required for pursuing impressive male Whitetail specimens in the prairie wildlife units. Expansive agricultural and grasslands with copses of poplar, willow and sagebrush are common to the prairie landscape. These areas are home to a range of stream and river drainages from the rRockies, and natural or man-made irrigation systems provide deer and other indigenous animals with plentiful water sources to replenish their systems. The winter 46 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

months result in large amounts of snowfall when heavy open winds cause drifting and exposure patterns to occur affecting animal foraging and movement.

In the central parklands of the province, clumps of aspen forest ranging in size from several to a couplehundred acres conceal deer who take great advantage of abundant food resources provided by cereal, hay and other crops throughout the region. The Parkland zones (WMUs in the 200s) are a transition between the mixed-wood forests to the North and West and the drier prairies to the South and East. Stands of poplar are interspersed with grasslands and meadows, giving areas a park-like appearance. This rich agricultural land has black soils and receives ample rainfall. Many of Alberta's major metropolitan centres are found in the parkland, including Edmonton and Calgary. The region is travelled by all-season highways, gravel roads, and major airports.

The Foothills zones (WMUs in the 300s) are wellpopulated with Whitetail. The foothills provide important Whitetail winter range because winters are warmer than in the adjacent Rocky Mountains, therefore offering a greater diversity of food sources for deer. Woodland

Whitetail roam widely throughout these areas. The foothills are similar to the mountain region, but are lower in elevation and generally drier. Forests of spruce, pine and poplar are often broken by tracts of grassland. This spectrum of vegetation provides appealing habitat for a variety of wildlife. Hunting in this area is very productive

and rewarding, and encounters of a range of diverse and unique wildlife are common. 4x4s are often employed by trail or through unbroken bush from base camps to explore ridgelines, stream basins, forested, thick-bushed or grassy hillocks, open meadows and sometimes even surprise canyons previously invisible from 200 meters away. Hold on tight to your handlebars! Tree stands, still hunting and spot and stalk may all be employed to harvest Whitetail in these zones - the geography is very dynamic and can change noticeably within each square mile.

The mountain hunting region is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain zones (WMUs in the 400s) that stretch along much of the western border of Alberta. It is characterized by forests of coniferous trees such as spruce, fir and pine. At higher elevations, permanent snow fields and glaciers are scattered among rocky ledges, scree slopes and alpine meadows. Next to this region are Alberta’s three national parks: Jasper, Banff and Waterton Lakes. Hunting is strictly prohibited in national parks.Further North, the boreal region offers deer the safety of spruce/aspen forests dissected by numerous cut blocks, roads, cutlines and fringe areas of agricultural production. The Northern Boreal Forest zones (WMUs in the 500s) are characterized by vast expanses of mixed-wood forests of coniferous spruce, pine and larch, and deciduous poplar and birch. These stands are broken by numerous lakes, muskegs and rivers. In the extreme northeast of the province, the Canadian shield of Precambrian rock is exposed, harbouring many clear-water lakes.

The Whitetail “RUT” occurs from mid to late November.

Weather conditions during this month are highly variable and range from dry and warm to two feet of snow and -30 temperatures. There is no way to predict from year to year what to expect, so one should come equipped and prepared for any of these possibilities. Outdoorsmen can always peel off extra clothes if the weather is unseasonably warm, but it is tough to hunt effectively if you’re constantly shivering, so ensure you bring clothes for periods of below freezing.

Archery seasons and the early northern rifle seasons are generally milder; however hunters should still be prepared for cold and snow during any of the fall months.

Hunting tactics vary greatly in Alberta, and here anything can

happen. Weather, a hunter’s level of fitness, timing in relation to the rut, habitat type, and personal preference of the Outfitter are all variables that play a role in the tactics used for success.

Bowhunters will have their best luck hunting from ground blinds or tree stands. Stands are placed along established travel corridors adjacent to known feeding areas or between food sources and bedding cover. Rattling, calling, scents and decoys may all be used to help move deer closer to bowhunters and rifle hunters utilizing blinds or stands. The rifle hunter has more options to choose from when it comes to selecting tactics or set-ups.

While ground blinds and tree stands continue to be effective choices, a spot and stalk approach can be highly productive for trophy deer, as can still-hunting where ground- cover conditions are favorable. Another time-tested technique for rooting out midday bucks from cover is “deer driving”, or "pushing bush" as its most commonly referred to in western Canada. This tactic, while certainly challenging the shooting skills of the hunter on post, is a highly successful method for creating opportunities for harvesting huge deer that might otherwise never show themselves.

The Whitetail subspecies native to Alberta is the largest bodied and largest antlered of the many recognized subspecies of Whitetails across North America. Mature bucks in excess of the 300 “plus” pound category exist here and some grow to be substantially bigger. As for antler size: Alberta’s habitat, genetics and moderate hunting pressure allow many deer to reach the true trophy proportions and incredible mass that is recognized throughout the hunting world. As a result, rifles in the .270 to .300 Win. Mag. class are the norm. It is difficult to have too much gun when hunting Whitetails and most Outfitters recommend clients bring with them the largest caliber they can comfortably handle. Variable scopes can be of great value too, as shooting opportunities may present themselves at anywhere from a handful of yards if hunting from a blind or stand to 350 yards or more in open habitats.

Alberta is truly a hunter’s paradise, and as a long time visiting hunter recently quoted: “Flying in each year gives me the same feeling. As the plane touches down, I get that exciting feeling of anticipation and the thought comes to mind that I am ‘home’, back in the ‘land of giants’!”

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 47

Alberta Top Ten Top Ten in Alberta: TYPICAL WHITE-TAILED DEER

Top Ten in Alberta: NON TYPICAL WHITE-TAILED DEER

Score

Date

Owner

Score

Date

Owner

204 1/4 199 5/8* 198 1/2 197 3/8 192 7/8 192 0/8* 190 7/8 190 5/8 190 3/8 188 1/2

1967 1991 1981 1992 1992 1999 1997 1969 1984 1977

S. Jansen Don McGarvey Morris Kimball L. J. Youngman N. Trudeau Jim Hole R. J. Kowalyshyn Eugene Bolle Glen R. Davis N. T. Salminen

279 3/4 277 5/8 276 1/8 267 7/8 256 5/8 255 3/4 255 1/2 252 3/4 248 1/2 254 1/4

1991 1976 2007 1984 1993 1998 1973 1998 1995 1991

Brad Gsell Doug Klinger Helgie Eymundson Jerry Froma Keith Hahmer Michael Braund Leo Eklund Don Brenneman D. J. Hollinger & B.Howard Mike Crustawka

Highlights of hunting Whitetail in Alberta 1. Alberta is home to three of Boone and Crockett’s Top Ten typical and non-typical record setting Whitetail bucks; no other single state or province on the continent has more deer on the list!

2. Alberta is internationally regarded for having one of the highest percentages of trophy-class bucks within its popula tion of any jurisdiction in North America!

3. Mature bucks in excess of the 300 “plus” pound category exist here and some grow to be substantially bigger.

Whitetail Odocoileus virginianus Hoofed Animals Deer Family (Cervidae) Measurement: Size: 190 cm/90-105 cm at the shoulder Weight: 90-135 kg Description: In the Rockies, the Whitetail deer is outnumbered by the smaller mule deer. Over the past decade, Whitetail have been moving uphill, and have become a common sight in the mountains. Like the mule deer, they have a tawny coat with a light rump. Their tail is much bushier than that of the Mule Deer, and despite their name, is brown in colour. It is the underside of the tail for which this deer has become known. When startled, they raise their tail and reveal the white underside. This "flagging" as it is called, acts as a danger call to other deer in the immediate area.

Their antlers are also unique. The main branch (or tine) forks several tines along its length. The antlers of mule deer form a y-intersection at each junction.

Range: The most wide-spread deer in North America, the Whitetail is found across the U.S. and southern Canada. While less common in the mountains than the Mule Deer, it is gradually becoming a more common sight.

48 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Diet: They feed on many grasses, flowers and leaves during the summer months, resorting to browsing buds and twigs during the long winter months.

Reproduction: Like other members of the deer family, the rutting season takes place during September and early October. Fawns appear in the spring, making the winter a challenging time for the does. They must divert limited winter resources towards reproduction, and this may result in their being more likely to be selected by predators.

Notes: Poorly adapted to winter climates, Whitetail deer 'yard' up during the winter. Quite simply stated, they move in groups, using trails to make winter travel less difficult. Unlike Moose, who are well adapted to move through the deep snows of the mountains, deer are forced into a bounding gait with even a shallow snowpack. Very soon, the benefits of movement can be outweighed by the energy costs.

Source: www.mountainnature.com

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Wolf and Coyote Wolf (Canis Lupus) Sportsmen hunting other big game often take Wolves as an incidental species. There is, however, a growing recognition that the Wolf is a magnificent trophy in its own rite, and as such there is increasing interest in hunting them in Alberta.

(available for a nominal fee) from the opening of any big game season until the end of the spring Bear season. Some outfitters offer winter Wolf hunts, when the pelts are at their best and no other hunting seasons are open.

Wolf populations are high throughout the boreal, foothills and mountain regions of Alberta. Alberta Wolves can reach 120 pounds in weight and vary in color spectrum from light gray to night black. The pelt of an Alberta Wolf, taken in its winter prime, is a beautiful reminder of a great hunt for this shy and rarely seen trophy.

Baiting Wolves is legal and effective. Also, during late February and early March, Wolves may be "howled in" during the mating season. Wolves in hearing range of a predator call will often respond, and can be lured in close to hunters.

Wolves may be hunted by the holder of a Wolf license

There is no limit on Wolves, but they are subject to CITES regulations. Hunters must wait for the issuance of a CITES permit and have the trophy shipped (see www.cites.org).

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 49

Wolf Canis lupus The Dogs Dog Family (Canidae) Measurement: Size: 160-190 cm Weight: 45-70 kg Description: The Wolf looks like no other wild dog. It is immense, perhaps its most telling feature weighing in between 45-70 kg. Colors vary between black and white. Little more in the way of description is generally necessary The mournful howl of the Wolf is occasionally heard on the mountain airwaves. Historically, people had fun howling back and forth with Wolves. Today, biologists believe this can add stress as the Wolves may conclude that a rival pack is in the area.

Range: The Wolf can be found across Canada, although the populations are struggling to survive in many locations. Wolf populations can also be found in isolated pockets in the US, in particular the northern US Rockies.

Diet: Wolves are very organized predators of large game animals.

Primary prey includes Mule Deer and Whitetail, Elk, bighorn Sheep and Moose. Given the opportunity, they will also take mountain goats, bison and rarely domestic cattle. Small mammals and birds may supplement this diet.They hunt cooperatively, often taking turns chasing down a single prey until they exhaust it. Since Wolves do not have great endurance, this cooperative form of hunting is very effective.

While they have few natural predators, the pups may fall victim to bears, cougars, lynx and even eagles.

Reproduction: The social structure of the Wolf pack generally restricts mating to the dominant or alpha male and female. During mating, the males penis actually locks into place within the female vagina, holding

him until mating is complete, which may take as long as 30 minutes. Actual mating takes place during the winter, with the pups arriving 63 days later. They will be nursed in the den for several weeks before slowly making its first foray to the outside world.

Notes: Wolves have a highly developed social structure, with intricate relationships between pack members. The pack is composed numerous individuals (averaging around 8 Wolves) living within a cooperative social structure. The dominant (alpha) male and female take precedence within the pack. They are the first to feed, and often the only pair that will mate. The entire pack plays an active role in the raising of the pups. Dominance is temporary though, and in time, the alpha male and female will each have to face challenges from younger Wolves.

Source: www.mountainnature.com

Highlights of hunting Wolf in Alberta 1. Alberta Wolves can reach 120 pounds in weight and vary in color spectrum from light gray to night black 2. On most days a hunter will experience multiple opportunities to bag "Old Wily" 50 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Coyote (Canis Latrans) Alberta’s coyotes offer great opportunities for both the long-range varmint shooter and the predator caller. Coyotes are abundant in the province, especially in the prairie, parkland and foothills regions. On most days a hunter will experience multiple opportunities to bag "Old Wily". There is no limit on coyotes in Alberta and pelts taken during the winter prime season are thick and well-furred.

Coyote Canis latrans

In general, Coyotes may be hunted year round on private lands and from October 1 until February 28 on public lands. During open big game seasons, the Coyote hunter must possess a big game license valid for that open season and management unit.

The serious Coyote hunter should wait until the end of the big game season (usually November 30) when pelts are at their best and other hunters are not as active. An Alberta Wolf /Coyote game license is required.

Canada Highway,

The Dogs Dog Family (Canidae) Measurement: Size: 112-137 cm Weight: 9-23 kg Description: The trickster, as the Blackfoot of southern Alberta knew the Coyote, is a common sight throughout the Canadian and American Rockies.

Look for a medium sized gray dog with a grizzled coat with a reddish tinge. The underside is white, and the tail is thick and brushy.

Coyotes, like Wolves can be very vocal. Their yipping call can make for a pleasant chorus on the mountain airwaves. It is much more dog-like than the Wolf, with short, high-pitched yaps rather than the haunting howl of the Wolf.

Range: Coyotes are found throughout the United States and southern Canada. Their range extends north to the Yukon and Alaska following the Rocky Mountains. Despite man's attempts to wipe out the Coyote throughout much of the 20th century, the Coyote actually managed to extend its range during this same period.

Diet: Coyotes are easily the most versatile predator in the Rockies. While they are principally a predator of small game like mice, voles, ground squirrels and birds, they also eat large amounts of carrion. They also take the occasional domestic pet. In terms of adaptability, they are very quick to take advantage of unique situations. They have been known to follow grizzly bears. Grizzly bears will occasionally dig up ground squirrel colonies, most of which have a back door.

Canada Highway, and Coyotes quickly learned to take advantage of this change to their world. While they would rarely be a predator of large game animals like bighorn Sheep, they learned that when the Sheep were chased that they would run towards nearby cliffs where they would normally have the advantage (due to their climbing skills). Unfortunately, high fences cut off the cliffs, and so the Coyotes quickly learned to stampede the sheep into these fences.

Park wardens began to find carcasses of Sheep where these fences passed highway rock cuts. The wardens then covered the fence with a green mesh to give the Sheep an earlier warning that there was a physical obstacle that they could not pass. This has had the effect of equalizing the advantage the Coyotes had gained.

While Coyotes are an effective hunter, they occasionally become the hunted. Wolves and cougars may take the odd Coyote, but man is their main predator. Coyotes are generally not dangerous to humans, but there have been numerous cases where people, in particular children, have been bitten.

As the bear goes in through the front door, the Coyote patiently waits at the back door. When the ground squirrel thinks it's time to retreat, and heads out the back door, the Coyote takes it and leaves the grizzly hungry. They have also been known to play dead and wait for ravens to come and pick at their carcass, at which turnabout is fair play and the Coyote instead picks at the raven's carcass. For some reason, they have commonly been seen stealing golf balls from courses in Banff and Jasper. They may think they look like eggs, but biologists are not certain of the real reason.

Reproduction: Coyotes tend to move in mated pairs. There may be a small pack made up of siblings, within which there will be a dominant pair. This pair is the sole breeding pair and the remainder of the pack will assist in the raising of the pups. Mating takes place between January and March. The female will dig a den in the spring, with the pups arriving in April or May. Gestation is 60-63 days. The typical litter is six with some litters as high as nine pups.

In Banff National Park, fences have been erected along the Trans

Source: www.mountainnature.com

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 51

Moon and Sunset Tables Moon Table Top Ten in Alberta: NON-TYPICAL ELKMoon phases for 2012 New Moon

First Quarter

Full Moon

Third Quarter

Duration

Sep. 15 - 20:11 Oct. 15 - 06:03 Nov. 13 - 15:08

Sep. 22 - 13:41 Oct. 21 - 21:33 Nov. 20 - 07:32

Sep. 29 - 21:19 Oct. 29 - 13:50 Nov. 28 - 07:46

Sep. 8 - 07:16 Oct. 8 - 13:34 Nov. 6 - 17:36

29d 10h 16m 29d 9h 52m 29d 10h 06m

Sunrise / Sunset Table MDT Calgary

MDT Edmonton

MDT Peace River

Date

Rise

Set

Date

Rise

Set

Date

Rise

Set

Sep. 1 Sep. 5 Sep. 10 Sep. 15 Sep. 20 Sep. 25 Sep. 30 Oct. 1 Oct. 5 Oct. 10 Oct. 15 Oct. 20 Oct. 25 Oct. 30 Nov. 1 Nov. 5

6:49 6:55 7:03 7:11 7:19 7:27 7:35 7:36 7:43 7:51 7:59 8:08 8:16 8:25 8:28 8:35

8:22 8:13 8:02 7:51 7:39 7:28 7:17 7:15 7:06 6:55 6:44 6:34 6:24 6:14 6:11 6:04

Sep. 1 Sep. 5 Sep. 10 Sep. 15 Sep. 20 Sep. 25 Sep. 30 Oct. 1 Oct. 5 Oct. 10 Oct. 15 Oct. 20 Oct. 25 Oct. 30 Nov. 1 Nov. 5

6:43 6:50 6:58 7:07 7:16 7:25 7:33 7:35 7:42 7:52 8:01 8:10 8:20 8:29 8:33 8:41

8:24 8:15 8:02 7:50 7:38 7:26 7:13 7:11 7:01 6:49 6:38 6:27 6:16 6:05 6:01 5:54

Sep. 1 Sep. 5 Sep. 10 Sep. 15 Sep. 20 Sep. 25 Sep. 30 Oct. 1 Oct. 5 Oct. 10 Oct. 15 Oct. 20 Oct. 25 Oct. 30 Nov. 1 Nov. 5

6:53 7:00 7:10 7:20 7:30 7:40 7:50 7:52 8:00 8:10 8:21 8:31 8:42 8:52 8:57 9:05

8:44 8:34 8:21 8:07 7:54 7:41 7:27 7:25 7:14 7:01 6:48 6:36 6:24 6:12 6:08 5:59

MST Calgary Nov. 10 Nov. 15 Nov. 20 Nov. 25 Nov. 30

7:44 7:52 8:01 8:09 8:16

54 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

MST Edmonton 4:56 4:49 4:44 4:37 4:34

Nov. 10 Nov. 15 Nov. 20 Nov. 25 Nov. 30

7:50 8:00 8:09 8:17 8:25

MST Peace River 4:45 4:37 4:30 4:24 4:19

Nov. 10 Nov. 15 Nov. 20 Nov. 25 Nov. 30

8:16 8:27 8:37 8:47 8:56

4:49 4:40 4:32 4:25 4:20

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Cover Article

Big Mule Deer – Where, Why, When? and How do I find them?

First let me give you a little background on myself as this is the first article I have written on one of my favourite subjects – Finding big Mule Deer. I was born and raised in a little farming community in Saskatchewan. We had lots of whitetails around especially on my Grandpa’s farm. In those days (I was born in 1960) there were no mule deer in that country and I grew up hunting whitetail and only hearing about the mule deer on draw in the very south western part of the province.

After college I moved to Alberta where I started hunting the southern mountains in 1981. It was here that I first started to hunt mule deer. After several years of taking buddies into the mountains hunting elk and mule deer I started Blue Bronna Outfitting.

For 25 years now I have taken hundreds of hunters into northern Alberta for bear and moose, Central Alberta for White Tails and big prairie mule deer, and the south western mountains for Elk, Moose, black bears and the mountain mule deer.

As I write this I am sitting beside a fire with an awesome view of the great divide, within a couple miles of where I took my first elk and mule deer. The key to those first animals was perseverance and a lot of hard hiking, good luck and much leg work. Over the years those qualities have served me well to discover tough country yet without diminishing the necessity of perseverance and luck I now know it takes more than that to be continually successful in finding big muleys.

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 55

Where & Why?

The first step in finding quality mule deer is to hunt where they are. That’s obvious but how does one know where they can be found? Why are their big muleys in Southern Saskatchewan, British Columbia, parts of Utah, Wyoming, Nevada, Kansas, Montana, Arizona, Mexico, and in a lot of places in Alberta (eastern, central, western, mountains, prairies, and boreal Peace River country)? What makes these places exceptional?

efforts in creating limited hunting opportunities for mule deer we would still have very limited amounts of big bucks in Alberta. In one of the wild life management units (WMU’s) where I now consistently find great mule deer, I have talked to long time residents who remember when only Whitetails were found there. This is consistent with where I grew up in Saskatchewan; now there are very good mule deer where as a boy I only saw whitetails.

Mule deer will flourish but only if managed in a fashion which keeps a supply of big older bucks available.

Consistently, I believe, that big muleys are found where they have good genetics, great food, and time to grow up. The first two can be just about anywhere but the last – time to grow is only found where predators are not able to consistently keep the numbers down. When I say predators I am referring to two footed and four footed varieties. Thus big mule deer are found where either the country makes hunting so tough that predators don’t get to them or where they are valued by the biologists of the area enough so that they are put on a limited harvest regime in a situation where four footed predators are limited.

Specifically in Alberta I need to thank our biologists for the management of our mule deer. If it was not for their 56 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

What has changed? Why are we now finding big muleys where only whitetails were 30 years ago? What about the old wives tail, the belief that whitetails chase out the mule deer?

Dr. Valerius Geist a very renowned biologist and mule deer expert also believes that whitetails will eventually “breed out” the mule deer (another subject altogether), however; in Dr. Geist’s book “Mule Deer Country” he gives some great information as to why I believe muleys are moving into previous whitetail areas. Dr. Geist states that “mule deer normally dominate whitetail deer” (page 165). He also states “there is no convincing evidence or observations that whitetail deer displace mule deer from their ranges through overt aggression” (p. 165).

I believe that mule deer will abound if they

are managed in a manner which keeps the age ratio in a balanced proportion in regards to age structure. If there are large mule deer bucks they will keep the whitetail bucks from breeding out the mule deer. Dr. Geist also states “hunting, which removes large mule deer bucks more efficiently than it does the secretive, often nocturnal whitetail bucks… in turn, leads to large whitetail bucks displacing minor mule deer bucks”.

The areas producing big mule deer either have limited predator and hunting pressure due to tough terrain or the biologists have put the area under restrictions so that there are limited numbers of bucks harvested. My personal observations while spending many years guiding and looking at mule deer tend to back Dr. Geist’s observations. Mule deer will flourish but only if managed in a fashion which keeps a supply of big older bucks available.

In four years that area went from a place where outfitters did not use all their allocations to a very high demand for mule deer hunts In the southern western Alberta porcupine hills about 10 years ago the biologists had a sufficient supply of mule deer although not big bucks. Another outfitter believed there would never be large bucks in the porcupine hills. I disagreed as I had witnessed the explosion of large mule deer bucks in the central and eastern parts of the province when those WMU’s were put on draw several years earlier. There was political will to put the mule deer on draw in the southwest however the biologists did not have a biological reason to do so as there were lots of deer. I showed Dr. Geist’s research to my biologist who took it to the biologist meetings and Mr. Brent Markham (head biologist of Alberta at that time) decided to put the area on draw. In four years that area went from a place where outfitters did not use all their allocations to a very high demand for mule deer hunts.

Four footed predators is the other predator which can deplete larger bucks. I believe that wolves, cougars and even coyotes are very hard on older bucks. Another outfitter friend of mine, who hunts cougars, spent a day back tracking a cougar and found four mature bucks killed by the cougar in that one day of tracking. Older bucks tend to stay back from the open country which muley does frequent

The top 6 bucks taken by 16 mule deer hunters (including a three point which went 190+) averaged a gross score of 200 inches. ” and thus are in the prime area where a cougar would likely be stalking.

I personally watched a large panicked buck come flying by myself and two bow hunters around 10:30 AM when we were going after Elk. Although we did not see a wolf on his heels in the morning, that evening as we were coming back from an unsuccessful elk stalk we had wolves howling around us and when we got to the spot the buck had torn through a wolf came out in front of us and loped off down the exact path the buck had taken. I believe the wolves got side tracked

with our bugling and when they figured out we were human went right back to the chase they had originally been on 10 hours prior.

The other quality I would like to touch on is the issue of high quality feed. Dr. Geist states on page 73 that “antlers are universally highly sensitive to forage surpluses”. Obviously in good agricultural areas there is an abundance of good feed but what about the big bucks coming out of the desert areas. A couple hunters who regularly hunt for muleys with me in Alberta also hunt Old Mexico. What they have observed is that when Old Mexico has an abundant amount of moisture out pop the big bucks. In Alberta we observed the same thing when in 2010 we had a very wet summer. The top 6 bucks taken by 16 mule deer hunters (including a three point which went 190+) averaged a gross score of 200 inches. That is a better season than I have had in a long time and the summer was a very wet one. Why does moisture produce better bucks or does it?

The head biologist for fish and wildlife in Alberta asked me why I thought 2010 was such a good year for antler growth. I answered with the following from my observations - which are my own hypothesis. During the summer older bucks do not want to move a whole lot and like to find a spot which has everything they need and stay there until they, seemingly randomly, move to their next position. The next spot may have a different type of feed but will not be real far away and still be near water and shelter. Year after year older bucks tend to be

found in the same protected spots. I believe the quality of browse is not their when it is dry because they are hard on the plants which they need (along with other users) and when a wet year comes along these plants produce more browse then normal and the bucks produce better antlers.

Biologists will also tell us that the main item which correlates with big

We turned down over 70 bucks in the first five days of his hunt. We saw several in the 190’s and a dozen over 180 however I could not say any were 200 plus. antlers, whether mule deer or other antlered deer, is the type of winter weather during the buck’s mother’s pregnancy. If the doe has an easy winter and comes into the spring in good shape the buck she gives birth to have a very high chance of producing a superior set of antlers. There are many other factors which influence the type of antlers a buck will grow but this one is most consistent. If you are looking for a place which may have big bucks check out the winter from 4-6 years prior and see if it was abnormally tough or easy as this may give you a clue as to what the older bucks have to back up their racks.

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 57

Muleys have not just good but GREAT hearing When & How Do I Find Them?

I am constantly asked “What is the best week to come?” from hunters wanting to come up to Alberta and try to find a big mule deer. I generally answer with “The week your guide is the luckiest” or “The week we find the big deer” etc. I am not particularly stuck on any one week as when I look back over our history I find that we have taken big deer in the mountains from Sept 24th through the first week of November (we generally only hunt the mountains for mule deer until the end of October). In November we get busy with our prairie hunts which only open for rifle during the month of November.

Our biggest deer generally come when we least expect it. The reason is in the how. The whole key to getting a chance at a mature mule deer is by knowing the country and where you can see from.

Mule deer bucks tend to move from doe location to doe location and can show up at any time of the day. Therefore one finds them by spending time watching spots where they will show up.

In October of 2010 we had a hunter who wanted to get a big deer in the worst way. He wanted to get out and hike the ridges till he found that deer. His guide was trying to get him to stay put and glass but it was really frustrating for the 58 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

hunter. I told his guide to get him on a ridge and spend a couple days walking. They saw a good number of deer but no shooters.

After several days I took him out and persuaded him to watch one part of a mountain while I watched another. I found an awesome buck and we went after it but it was too late and we lost him. The next morning I went back up on the mountain and tried to find the buck but found another two instead and he eventually got a gross 197 inch deer that day. Glassing is highly superior to walking in areas where you can see.

We find the big deer by constantly using good glass and spending a lot of time looking into areas where we know there are deer. This glassing is mainly done from a distance of a half mile or more.

This is crucial. Most people have no idea as to the alert hearing ability of a mature muley. A few years ago I had a hunter set up in a great location at 425 yards from a big buck checking does. He did not feel confident to make the shot at that distance so we decided to try and get closer as we had a good line of cover. We were as quiet as I believe we could be but when we were still over 300 yards away behind a line of trees I saw the buck peeking around some trees at us. He disappeared and we never saw him again. When we last saw him prior to him looking at us he was totally distracted with does.

Another time I was bow hunting and had a 195 inch buck at 100 yards and could not get closer. I decided to see what he could hear. I scratched the leg of my pants and instantly his head came up and he glued right to where I was hidden. In another instance a hunter was wearing a stiff denim material and his guide told him it was too loud. They spotted a HUGE muley and blew the stalk at 500 yards because of the swish of his jeans. This same hunter turned down a 204 inch muley the next year as he did not believe it was near as big as the one he had blown the year prior.

The last hunter I had in 2010 wanted a 200 inch muley in the worst way. We turned down over 70 bucks in the first five days of his hunt. We saw several in the 190’s and a dozen over 180 however I could not say any were 200 plus. Finally we found one which I thought was a shooter and while discussing it the buck, which was chasing a doe amongst five or six others, heard the movement the hunter made as he brushed a twig to get his shot. That buck instantly went into motion pushing his doe and evading us at the same time. The does never had a clue we were there and we never did get that buck.

What I am saying is muleys have not just good but GREAT hearing and it will beat you many more times than you will ever know. If you know where they are from your glassing you have a much better chance of getting the drop on them but even then it is tough to get a great chance at a big deer. Secondly, try not to get wrapped up in numbers and measurements but enjoy the whole experience while in mule deer country.

Good luck hunting, great luck spotting and in spite of it all learn and enjoy your time in the outdoors.

Glenn Brown Blue Bronna Outfitting www.bluebronna.com call 403 443 5718.

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Feature Article

Antelo e – An Alberta Treasure Antelope

«Home Home on the Range, Where the Deer and the Antelope Play, Where Seldom is Heard a Discouraging Word, And the Skies are Not Cloudy, All Day.» – A famous Cowboy song.

You can’t help but sing in antelope country. The temptation to fill your lungs and yodel can be overwhelming for a city slicker headed out on the hunt for the elusive prairie goat.

“You can’t be serious. You think we will see a hundred antelope?” My son was full of questions.

“Maybe a thousand.” I grinned, “Every time I drive the Trans-Canada highway I see antelope. You will start to see them around Brooks.”

“Are we staying in Medicine Hat,” asked Glen? He was excited about his first hunt on the wide open prairie.

“We are going to scout until we find some good bucks and then camp in the Hat. It is a gentleman’s hunt, but your Mother has the tag.”

Antelope hunting is really the best of hunting. You get to scout, glass, smell the vast open prairie rank with sage and the earthy smell of a million buffalo chips ground and

polishd into the thin drift soil that barely carpets some of the wildest gumbo and mud bogs in the entire province. At the end of each day you can stay in the Gas City and eat in a restaurant.

Experiencing antelope hunting at the very best involves planning for the hunt by drawing a tag or booking with an outfitter.

Popular wisdom always dictates a scouting trip of one or two days prior to the opening Hunt Alberta – get the facts 59

day. Geographically situated in the southeastern corner of Alberta in the very tip of of the northern Great Plains, antelope country is primarily taken up with grassland ranches and some dryland farming with a little irrigation off the sides of a couple major rivers.

“I see one,” I cackled. “I win the bet.”

“Is it a good buck? Hey, there’s more. And more.”

“You can’t be serious.

You think we will see a hundred antelope?”

Antelope probably have better eyes than any big game animal.

Antelope probably have better eyes than any big game animal.

They look oversized and with big black lashes give a Miss Twiggy appearance to the does especially, and when those long legs churn you know they are built for speed.

Even better, there was a coyote mincing around in some old buffalo wallows and he was keeping the antelope entertained. We just had to sneak a couple hundred yards crosswind and crawl up to a little knub of rock and sand and stay under cover.

“Your turn Jan,” I whispered. “We are close enough.”

We had the best of everything with a landowner providing us permission and some rolling hill country north of Medicine Hat open for hunting. That gave us the chance to stalk and walk the magnificent prairie.

There were three of us trouping across hill and dale looking for a trophy. In classic fashion I was leading my wife Jan and son Glen into the wind. We would sneak up and top a ridge and glass. It was not long before all of us were snarling at the little prairie cactus that seem to bite you on the hand and the knee or worse still, on the butt. It took two hours to find the little band of speedsters we knew were in the two square mile hunting area.

The opening day came with a chilly wind. “Hang on to your hat. Those antelope should be hunkered down in one of the draws,” I opined. “We just have to saunter a long and keep a low profile.”

The little group of prairie goats were bedded on a grassy knoll about 400 yards away.

We scanned them with binoculars and then the spotting scope and were please to see a blackfaced buck with good horns.

“Why did you forget the bipod or shooting sticks, Dad?”

Antelope can be so easy to spot when they flash the heliographic hair on the hind end.

However, bedded they can take some steady glassing to find, especially where they find sage or high grass. You have to take good optics and a window mount and spotting scope is just about a must have. Of course, long range accurate rifles are important as well.

60 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

“OK, make me a rest.”

“I’m on cactus.”

“Just cover your ears and quit wiggling.” When my wife speaks it is a command. She had a .270 cradled in my softer parts and shortly I could feel her tense up and then the shot rang out and a trophy buck was hers.

“For that you get to pack your Mother’s buck back to the truck.”

“Happy day Mom, I would be glad to.”

“Congratulations Jan on your fine trophy and many thanks to you Glen for your assistance packing the buck to the truck. You may make a fine guide some day.”

The buck was big but also small. A fine head, he looked to be near 14 inches but after gutting the load was manageable for a young man with a big shirt size and small hat size.

They are ever thus. You have to marvel at the animal that has such attractive features and attributes, but stands shorter and weighs less than any other game species. Probably they weigh around 50 kilo’s tops. It is some of the finest meat you can get and do not believe the old stories about rank meat and sage flavored cuts. Antelope, when taken without miles of running behind trucks or quads, is wonderful meat.

For the trophy hunter, Alberta does offer the opportunity to find a monster. A vast part of the region is taken up by the

British Block, an area taken from many ranchers during the Great War, and my wife’s grandfather lost his ranch to expropriation.

We can never drive to Medicine Hat without grousing about the injustice and shedding a few tears for the loss of the homelands.

The deer and the antelope and now the elk are living on the Block by the thousands, not to mention wild horses and it would not surprise me if we hear about a few grizzly bears or buffalo some day soon. It is per fect habitat for growing modern plains mega fauna.

Some of these animals leave the Block and the antelope are actually known for migrating hundreds of miles.

You might just find a Boone and Crockett head out on the flatlands of southern Alberta.

In my experience, the antelope hunt is simply great fun. You see lots just driving down the country roads and there are also game birds everywhere and rare sightings of sage hens and badgers and tiny owls living under the cutbanks of the roadways or resting on 80 year old cedar fence posts.

The chance to time travel into the dirty thirties is irresistible and I try and arrange a hunt every chance I can.

I will drive, guide, hunt, scout, and enjoy antelope as often as I can.

“Congratulations Jan on your fine trophy and many thanks to you Glen for your assistance packing the buck to the truck.

You may make a fine guide some day.”

Ken Nowicki

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 61

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Article

Misty River Black Bears

There's nothing like waking to the smell of bacon, eggs, and fresh coffee in the morning.

That's how our first day at Misty River Outfitters in Alberta began.

Mike Pierson and I were in the heart of big bruin country, camped along the Athabasca River hunting black bears with Nick Kuelken and his crew. The early scouting reports were promising and we were excited to be back in the bear woods.

was veryactive, with a number of good bears on it including a big, old color-phase boar. As we walked in to the stand we could see what he meant - the bait site was obliterated, and everywhere you looked you found bear sign.

Mike and I drew straws for the first day's hunt and, as usual, I lost. Mike grabbed the Excalibur Crossbow and we were off to our evening stand.

Nick had been telling us about this stand for some time. He said the bait

For this hunt, Mike and I decided to hunt from a ground blind. The wind wasn't right for the stand Nick had in place and, quite frankly, there's nothing like hunting a bear from the ground. We spent a little time brush-

62 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

ing up our blind, freshening up the bait and spraying out the Cake Icing Bear Bomb to sweeten up the air.

With everything in place, we settled in to wait the bears out.

We didn't have to wait long... just 45 minutes after we arrived; Mike tapped me on the shoulder and told me to get ready. I fired up the camera, searching through the greenery to find him. He stepped out cautiously and we got our first look at him.

The big boar made his way in to archery range, cautiously surveying the area as he took in his last meal. We waited patiently for a shot and when he finally posed for the camera, Mike touched the trigger and launched a FireBolt through the cool spring air. I saw the Lumenok light the way straight to the boiler plate and disappear behind the shoulder. He ran 30 yards and piled up less than an hour into our hunt.

With a solid four hours of daylight left, Mike and I switched equipment. We had just gotten settled

in the bush. After a few tense moments, he circled around us, popping his jaws along the way.

The adrenaline had just started to dissipate in my blood stream when the nosey young boar turned and proceeded to walk right toward us.

When he had closed the distance to about five yards I decided he was close enough. I moved just enough to get his attention. He started popping his jaws and "talking" to us, before he slowly walked away, disappearing in the bush.

We finished our first evening hunt with some great stories. We

camera photos to back it up. He was confident it would be time well spent, and I was confident he knew what he was doing.

Once again we settled ourselves into a ground blind for the evening hunt. The bait barrel was situated 15 yards downhill from our blind beside a deadfall. It just felt like big bear country.

About an hour into our hunt we could hear brush breaking on the far hillside. It sounded like a moose busting through the bush until we could make out the distinct sound of a bear popping

We finished our first evening hunt with some great stories. We recovered Mike's bear - a nice Alberta Boar pushing 300 pounds - and loaded into the boat to return to camp. when Mike tapped me on the shoulder again.

Mike leaned over, looking behind us and whispered "Did you hear that?" Twenty yards behind us, and on a straight line to our blind, the second bear of the hunt was on his way in. As he got within 10 yards he put his nose straight up in the air, trying to figure out what we were and why we were sitting

recovered Mike's bear - a nice Alberta Boar pushing 300 pounds - and loaded into the boat to return to camp.

A couple days later, Nick approached me and asked if I'd be interested in trying an area right on the river. The activity on this site was an indication that there were several large bears in the area, but there weren't any trail

his jaw. When we were finally able to see him he put on an impressive show, knocking over small trees and breaking branches all the way in to the bait. As he got closer he got bigger and I knew it was time to feed my Excalibur.

As I settled my sites on this big Alberta bruin, I heard another bear announcing his presence, and heading right to the bait barrel. As Hunt Alberta – get the facts 63

In less than a week of hunting we had taken two good Alberta bears, and a lifetime of memories with them. I couldn't begin to tell you how many bears we saw during the week, but I will tell you that Alberta is one of the most target-rich environments you will ever find. And the guys at Misty River know how to get it done right.

he approached the bait a scuffle ensued, sending this second bear back up the hill, right to our ground blind. He got within 5 feet of our position and stopped to see if the other bear was in pursuit. Content that he wasn't he turned his head back toward us and then realized he wasn't alone.

All of the sudden we were his focus of attention. I had the Excalibur shouldered and ready to scream in case he made a decision I didn't agree with. He began huffing and popping his jaw. He looked at us and then back to the bear at the bait barrel. Finally, as if he were trying to figure out what in the world was going on, he sat on the ground, looking back and forth from our blind to the barrel. I swiveled around and settled the crosshairs on the bear at the bait barrel, and let her sing.

What happened next is still something of a blur. My arrow screamed through the air reaching its target with blazing speed.

As it hit its mark the big boar turned hard and I lost him behind a tree as he ran off. I rose up on my knees to locate him and saw him running right toward our blind. With indescribable speed he closed the 15 yards and would 64 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

have crashed right through our blind if I hadn't hit him in the head with the stirrup of my Excalibur Crossbow. When I hit him, he stopped briefly, then turned 180 degrees and ran about 20 yards. He stopped, looked back to where we were sitting, then ran up the hill another 30 yards before he piled up.

There's nothing like the smell of fresh walleye on the fire - except, maybe, the smell of bacon and eggs in the morning. But when the fish is frying, the bears are in the freezer, and you're hanging out with the boys around the camp, you know you're living right.

My arrow screamed through the air reaching its target with blazing speed.

I'm still not sure who was more scared - me, or the bear. And in all the excitement I had forgotten about the other bear. His conundrum was solved, and he made his way right to the bait barrel, looking our way every now and then to make sure we were in our place.

It seemed like days before he had had his fill and wandered off into the bush. I couldn't wait to get my hands on my bear and as soon as the opportunity presented itself, we left the comfort of our ground blind behind and tracked my big Alberta stud into the bush.

If you're looking for a first-rate black bear hunt, you owe it to yourself to talk to Nick Kuelken at Misty River Outfitters. Alberta has big bears, and plenty of them.

There are also a good percentage of color-phase bears in this province. Nick and his crew are as good at bear hunting as they are at moose hunting and put the utmost effort into everything they do. Look them up... you'll be glad you did.

For more information on hunting in Alberta, visit www.huntalberta.ca

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Article

Alberta Point Blank: ARCHERY ELK RUT The first arrow struck the Elk broadside. The Bull jumped forward in surprise as though suddenly stung by a large insect. Yet for some reason, as if struck by Cupid, the Elk remained curiously intrigued despite the sizeable bolt projecting from its right side. Apparently a hapless slave to his baser passions, he remained strangely attracted and compelled to further cow calls from Cooley… who quickly rolled out for the second time from behind his poplar and landed another direct hit from the same posi-

Sportsman Channel’s Michael Cooley, Host of “Hunting Adventures”

tion no more than 25 yards away!

That was it. The bull took a few confused hops into the underbrush, and collapsed. It was not unlike a tragic romance.

A trail of bright red painted the rich green leaves of the forest fern as the Bull bled out from Cooley’s arrows. It was, indeed, a rare strike. Cooley was ecstatic. Over 150 hunts under his belt, and never had he felled an Elk in such a manner with his quiver. Only in Alberta were his wishes to be fulfilled.

Of course, Cooley’s Archery Elk harvest was not served up on any silver platter. Neither was his lunch that day in the bush. Guide Brett Lucas of Claresholm’s Lucasia Ranch pushed Cooley through miles of rolling foothills, open field, poplar forest, meadow and canyon ranges to achieve his lofty goal that week.

Always a challenging hunt, the Elk appeared to be smarter than the average Moose that expedition. Brett and Michael encountered quite a number Hunt Alberta – get the facts 65

Cooley held his bow horizontally over his head, with the handgrip resting on the crown, in such a manner so as to appear like a pair of Moose antlers. A young bull nearly charged Mr. Cooley as a result, but Brett (an experienced guide with Trophy Hunters Alberta) raised his voice in challenge to ward the beast off: “You want a piece of me? I didn’t THINK so!”

The young Romeo of the Rut decided to back down and watch them from the edge of the meadow, but he was still curious… was this some kind of strange, new challenge?

They get pretty stupid of Bull Moose on their travels, long before they successfully tracked and glassed their real quarry. “They get pretty stupid,” said Brett, referring to the young Moose’s eager response to repeated cow calling.

Despite the fact that Brett is an excellent caller, the Moose were attracted regardless, simply due to

Cooley’s success stemmed from his positive attitude and willingness to persevere, despite several hours without so much as even the sighting of an Elk. As any honest Albertan will tell you, Elk is often a tough hunt. However, even without a kill, the rewards are well worth the effort. During Cooley’s hunt, the men encountered so many different and fascinating wildlife

This was 100% Fair Chase reveal her natural secrets to these visitors of her windy vaults.

In the end, it was Mr. Cooley’s attitude that won him the success of a lifetime. This was no farmed hunt. This was 100% Fair Chase… the real deal, and nothing can ever be taken away from a quality expe

You want a piece of me? I didn’t THINK so! their overwhelming desire to breed. Anything that sounded or looked remotely like a cow was apparently fair game for an afternoon frolic.

At one point when a Moose approached them in a clearing, 66 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

scenarios that they were eager to set out each morning, regardless of the result at days end. There was simply no such thing as a disappointing day in the wilderness for these positive minded men. The incredible vista of the Porcupine Hills stretched out before them to

rience such as the one that Michael Cooley had on his Alberta hunt for Elk. This was Cooley’s third season hunting with Trophy Hunters Alberta, and each consecutive hunt somehow topped the last. What could possibly be in store for his next hunt?

It is important to note that Elk hunts such as this involve a lot of preparation by the outfitter and guides, as well as the hunter. The top notch guides complete extensive scouting during the off-season and they know all the new bulls by name far prior to opening. Cooley came well prepared, and outfitted himself according to the guidelines recommended by his provincially licensed guide and certified Alberta outfitting organization (in this case, Trophy Hunters Alberta – long time member of the Alberta Professional Outfitting Society APOS).

Many Alberta Elk hunts are performed on horseback. However, in this particular case, because of the nature of the terrain in the particular wildlife unit involved, the men geared themselves up in accordance with a spot and stalk, on-foot approach for their archery Elk pursuit. Smart. Tough, but smart.

Another significant element relating to the success of this hunt was the chemistry between hunter and guide. Mr. Cooley was openminded and receptive to the suggestions of Mr. Lucas, and willing to accept his advice on how to achieve success. Brett was able to assess the skill level and physical capacity of his hunter and make decisions accordingly regarding the daily hunting strategies. The dynamics were all in place to reach their goal. The men just had to maintain a mental visualization of success. By keeping a positive attitude at all times, pushing their physical limit each day and working together to gain a strength position over the Elk, they reached their goal.

Once Brett picked up the trail of the Elk, the men were able to track their quarry efficiently. Inevitably, Brett sighted a prospective bull in the

Only in Alberta were his wishes fulfilled distance. To the untrained eye, there would have been little possibility of recognizing the species or even noticing the location of the Elk due to the distance. When Brett obtained a positive binocular visual, the Elk were approximately one geographic mile away. The men immediately set off at top walking speed to pursue the sighting. They were sure to check wind direction and approach from a downwind angle. As they neared, both men began utilizing their cow calling equipment. Brett’s was a large, camouflaged PVC pipe that he had customized for the occasion and hung around his neck like a sling. Cooley’s was a smaller, hand sized version that would not impede the action of his draw. The men worked as a team. Of course, there was also Cooley’s cameraman Ross Smilko. Try that job on for size; humping a giant camera around all day through the Porcupine Hills! Maybe Mr. Cooley will give the poor fellow a few choice Elk steaks.

The group effort paid off. Cooley’s hunt is a great example of a well-

planned, well-executed and wellrecorded effort with a successful and consummating execution.

Patience, perseverance, co-operation, practice, assertiveness and endurance proved the major players on this Alberta Archery Elk expedition.

Cooley’s success story can be viewed in all its glory in High Definition video on the Trophy Hunters Alberta website @ www.trophyhunters.ca.

It was a pleasure to have Mr. Cooley to Alberta, for his third hunt in a row.

That is also another important element that Alberta outfitters often stress to clients – the importance of coming back regularly, learning the terrain and learning the patterns of life the animals follow. Return hunters have a higher success rate, and often achieve the truly trophy animals by getting to know the local geography and the species through seasoned experience. Of course, it is always great to have exceptional guides such as Brett Lucas, and incredible private and crown properties to hunt upon; all coordinated by licensed, fair-chase Alberta outfitters who have been around for years and who know the Alberta game by name.

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 67

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Article

Close Quarters! Mule Deer Meets Arrow.

A Dynamic Alberta Trophy Archery Hunt The goal for many hunters who come to Alberta is not just finding Mule Deer to harvest, but finding BIG Mule Deer to harvest. Scott Doshan achieved that goal when he scored the biggest Archery Mule Deer for the year in Alberta. There were many impressive aspects to Scott’s hunt. One of the most impressive aspects was: his wife Andrea was right there with him!

Also, Scott chose to hunt with bow and arrow – always a challenge and truly a fair chase approach to harvesting big game in the Rockies.

68 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Now some guys may go hunting to get a few days or a couple of weeks AWAY from their better half, but not Scott Doshan - no sir! Mrs. Doshan came right along with him from Florida to support him in his pursuit. They both had a great time – well, who wouldn’t? The Doshans signed up for a prairie archery Mule Deer hunt in one of the absolute best Mule Deer hunting zones in the province, and stayed at a beautiful working ranch in Southern Alberta. It’s a far cry from the Florida Everglades and on a spot and stalk hunt there are many challenging daily

efforts to go along with the various creature comforts…and, of course there are simply: lots of creatures.

The landscape was truly breathtaking, and the Doshans fell in love with Southern Alberta at first sight. As if out of some old western movie, they arrived by transport to a ranch where they would meet Scott’s guide, Brett Lucas; a local maverick of sorts. Close to the township of Claresholm, in the southern portion of the Wild Rose province, Brett Lucas was born and raised on a 4,000 acre ranch.

He was essentially born and raised as a rancher and big game hunter and guide, and now in his mid thirties, Brett leads non-resident guests through a range of wildlife management units in search of world class big game. A consummate professional, Brett’s record is impeccable, as he knows the lay of the land like the back of his weathered hand.

Brett Lucas has headed up hundreds of hunts over the years for Moose, Elk, Whitetail and Mule Deer. He has perfected the ‘spot and stalk’ method of hunting, and knows the Alberta Prairie and Foothills terrain as good as or better than any other local hunter or guide out there.

Scott Doshan would come to attest to Brett’s skill as a guide when he filled his Alberta archery tag for Mule Deer with Brett at his side. A day in the life of a spot and stalk hunter often requires great patience, but the rewards are well worth the effort. A silent assassin, the spot and stalk archer is formidable and a natural human weapon to be contended with.

Scott is well suited and a good candidate for bow hunting in the prairie zones because he is in above average physical condition for his age and consistently maintains a high level of positive emotional energy. Therefore, it was easier for Trophy Hunters Alberta and Brett to lead him to his goals that week.

Always conscious of wind direction, the archer must approach his prey with caution. Sometimes pushing bush or driving animals using team-

work will create a clear shot opportunity for the archery hunter. Often, animals will jump up suddenly from bedding down in tall grass or ridges where they are protected from wind. In these cases, the instinctive shooter is the successful shooter. The flight of the arrow is affected by wind speed and direction therefore it is an important factor. Preparation for wind is a critical element in the Alberta hunter’s arsenal.

Another good prospect is to seek water source areas and either wait or walk quietly seeking a clear shot opportunity. In open territory, it is definitely a challenge to get within 30 yards of a trophy Mule Deer buck; deemed a reasonable shot distance by masters of the practice. River valleys and creek bottoms tend to be good places to check out, as Mule Deer often herd in to such areas for various reasons: to camouflage themselves while

The morning of the hunt started with seeing several mule deer that would score well over 170 inches. foraging, to bed down, to seek protection from the elements, and so forth.

In that respect, the Mule Deer were a bit like the Doshans: good at blending in to their surroundings. Part of Scott’s success that week stemmed from his ability to adapt to the new surroundings, and to follow his guide’s lead at feeling out Scott’s personal capacities for archery. Brett evaluated how Scott’s hunting style would integrate with their daily strategy for filling his tag.

Scott recalls his mule deer hunt…

“The morning of the hunt started with seeing several mule deer that

would score well over 170 inches.

The problem as many bow hunters know is getting to them. The wind, the terrain, and the set-up are just a few of the decisions that needed to be taken into account prior to the stalk.

But our luck was about to change. We spotted my mule deer almost a mile

away through our spotting scope that we had seen earlier in the week. He was bedded and we could see his antlers sticking up through the crop field. The wind looked pretty consistent and we made a decision that my wife Andrea and me would make the long crawl facing into the wind. My wife was equipped with a video camera. She knew I was a little mentally drained from so many close calls throughout the week and just before we started in, she said GO GET HIM! So I drew up my inner strength and started the long crawl. Inch by inch we went in until we were about 300 yards away.

From there we made the decision it was best to split up and let me go in alone. Andrea crawled to about 150 yards and set up in an excellent area where she could catch the action.

After several hours of crawling at a snail’s pace, I knew I was close.

Periodically I would peek over the crop field and could see the massive buck’s antlers sticking up. At 68 yards I ranged the brute several times which was difficult because you are trying to range the antlers alone.

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 69

Sharing an experience like this with your partner is what life is about.

I was very certain of my distance and although this was a long shot I had practiced quite regularly out to 60 yards prior to the hunt. My plan was to go 10-15 more yards and try for the shot. Unfortunately, the big nontypical had other plans. He stood up and started looking around. "They always seem to know when trouble is brewing". As he quartered away, I drew my bow and laid rest my 60 yard pin just high on his vitals. The arrow flew true, and it looked like a perfect "or lucky" shot. The buck walked 10 yards and fell over dead. After field dressing, we found out my broad head went directly through his heart.

Sometimes you'd rather be lucky than good! Had it not been for Andrea my wife, I would have never succeeded in this harvest. She drives me to be better and on that day I was quite exhausted from the week of close calls. We rejoiced, hugged, and took many pictures. I have hunted quite a bit in my life but this was one I will never forget. Sharing an experience like this with your partner is what life is about. Our guide Bret was excellent at spotting game and seemed to find big mule deer every time he glasses through his binoculars. Our Outfitter, Tyler with Trophy Hunters Alberta is top notch! He is truly one of a kind and goes to great lengths to ensure a memorable hunt! I would highly recommend Tyler to any hunter who would like a great customer orientated hunt with tons of trophy quality game.”

70 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Meanwhile, Mrs. Doshan committed wholeheartedly to becoming an integral part of the landscape of the Prairie and the local Southern Alberta culture while her husband was out and about. She enjoyed the daytime

pant legs. Birds twittered above and all about, as the blanket of evening fell uponthe ranch.The ranch animals began to settle in for the moonlit night in their respective barns, and the ranch folk headed off to sleep early,

"They always seem to know when trouble is brewing". experience at camp. From trail rides on horseback or ATV, to nature hikes with the dogs, to quiet moments on the veranda, antique shopping in the town of Claresholm, visits with the neighbors, sunny moments in the kitchen, and excursions to sites such as Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump native heritage site and interpretive center – Mrs. Doshan wasn’t bored a moment until her husband returned in the evening with tales of the day’s outing. Of course, she went out with the boys to hunt a few times, too!

Evenings were often spent watching the sunset over the rolling porcupine hills near the fire pit, with a glass of wine or a cold beer in hand. Ranch cats purred and cuddled up on the laps of the women while the dogs sniffed around and licked at this or that scents from the men’s boots and

so as to be ready for morning light and the following days’ expedition.

Archery, it seems, is a native pursuit – a kind of extension of the soul. The instinctive shooter becomes somehow a present part of nature, and the bow an immediate extension of the arm. Time becomes relative as buck meets bow master.

So what brings the hunter to become an archer? Well, in some cases, archers are just born that way. It seems others come to archery over time, or use a range of weapons including the bow. Many who begin bow hunting become archers exclusively. Archers often mention the quiet nature of their selected method. There is very little sound connected with their craft, unlike the use of the rifle for hunting purposes.

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Article

Military Rations

A FATHER AND SON MOOSE HUNT It would be a gift to his son, and in a way, to himself. It would be a rare chance to bond together in the North, on a father and son Moose hunt before Craig joined the US Marine Corps the following February.

It was a call to the hunt. It was a calling of the wilderness from somewhere down in his bloodline, perhaps deep in his family heritage, to seek the Rocky Mountain experience of a lifetime… with his very best true friend in the entire world: his son, Craig.

It began with an idea. Mirek Rezek visualized it in the foreground of his mind.

He was a proud father. He was a skilled hunter. He realized and accepted that the path his son would soon embark upon could lead him away from home for quite some time. Mirek thought to impart his own knowledge and wisdom to his only son before he pushed off with the US Marines. Furthermore, he didn’t mind the thought of trying his own aging hand in a mountainous land where the elements and animals brought stunning challenges and unexpected developments on an hourly basis around the corner of each new Alberta canyon and

around the back of each new Alberta bush.

It would be a hunt to remember. That much, Mirek Rezek knew for sure. He envisioned the Rocky Mountain ridgeline in his mind. And it called out to his heart.

The Chinook wind soon led the Rezeks to prime hunting territory and a man named Devon Vadnais, who was to guide them on their Alberta adventure to their elusive quarry – the Western Canadian Bull Moose.

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 71

and waded through the muskeg to answer the call. Needless to say, it was Craig’s lucky day.

Don’t shoot something on the first day that you wouldn’t shoot on the last Craig Rezek had never actually seen a Moose before aside from motionless trophy specimens placed on other hunters’ walls, on the internet, or perhaps in the pages of a leather-bound hunting album. And Craig Rezek had definitely never seen a live Canadian Moose prior to his hunt in Alberta! This hunt would soon prove to be a larger than life experience for both Craig and his father.

Craig’s mounting anticipation to confront a Canadian Bull Moose in the Rocky Mountain Alberta forest at the base of the foothills in a hunting area that was epic in magnitude. His imagination shifted into overdrive with every dusky cow call that was blown. At times his hands began to tremble softly in the October rain, as they hunted the seasonal rut in search of a suitable Bull. Mirek definitively wanted his son to harvest first, and would decidedly refrain from filling his own tag until Craig had his first Moose downed and quartered.

The suspense built when Craig discovered a huge Bull Moose antler shed in the bush, during their search. They decided not to cart it out of the bush, even though it was a truly impressive specimen. Craig, quite simply, wanted his own rack.

72 Alberta – get the facts

The group left the trophy-size rack where it lay for Mother Nature to display in her own leafy den. It would only slow them down in the day’s pursuit, and take up important space on their ATVs. Guide Devon Vadnais took a moment to share his personal hunting mantra with the Rezeks: “Don’t shoot something on the first day that you wouldn’t shoot on the last.” It was a fitting proverb that might be applied to life, in general. With these words echoing in his mind, Craig Rezek pressed on toward his first Canadian Moose harvest with Trophy Hunters Alberta.

The hunting party parked their ATVs and walked in to their hunting spot, just east of the famous Banff National Park at the base of the Alberta Rocky Mountains, and Northwest of Calgary. They crossed a large cut-block (an area where logging has cleared an open space in the forest) and approached a boggy muskeg. They called for Moose.

One came.

Almost immediately, an impressive Canadian Bull Moose came visibly jogging down the slope of a ridge

Craig recounts his moose encounter… “On the first day we started early and it was still dark when the ATVs were parked, as dad, Devon, and I sat impatiently for daylight.

We were talking and doing whatever possible to pass time from the starlit morning to daylight. As we set up on the ridge we had dad facing the north side, me on the south. Devon let out some bellowing cow calls and grunts, soon after I was face to face with a rutting bull. Dad could have shot at 150 yards but he wanted me to get the bull. Dad held off, the bull went towards me at a mere 80 yards while I set up on a nub from a pine tree for a rest I took the safety off.

Adrenaline cursing through my veins I squeezed the round off. And any hunters’ worst nightmare the "CLICK" from the round not going off. I kept composure and worked the action on my .338 Remington ultra mag and squeezed again in almost a Hail Mary attempt and just after the gun went off the bull hunched to the shot tucking his head. Cranking another round in trying to down the big beautiful animal, a tree was hit as the bull crossed the muskeg and then eventually fell with a third and final shot.”

For having never seen a Moose outside the perimeter of his high definition television screen, Craig handled himself rather well. With a steady hand, he felled the creature handily. Despite being the first day of the hunt, and in fact, the hunters’ first stop of the day – Craig filled his tag. This, of course, left the remaining five days open to Mirek to take his time for his. Which, he did.

Several days passed, and the

to join the Marines.

"that was a good shot eh!" moose adventure continued. One of Trophy Hunter Alberta’s top guides, Devon led the Father and Son team through a broad range of terrain to cover different areas within the Wildlife Management Unit. Plenty of Mule Deer and Whitetail crossed their path, and several more Moose were sighted.

Still, Mirek Rezek waited. His was a patient manner. His son had harvested and he would take his time and enjoy the experience. He waited for the right moment, working with his son and his guide to absorb the clues around them that might lead toward an opportunity at a real trophy animal.

The final day of the hunt arrived.

Thus far, Mirek had passed on several opportunities to harvest his Moose tag. His son’s animal had already been picked-up and processed by the outfitter and the meat frozen, awaiting their return to Calgary from the hunt and their departure by plane back to Worcester, New York. Time was running out. Their flight left within a brief 24 hours, and they would soon need to pry themselves away from the wilderness and return to urban reality. Craig, of course, would soon begin his formal preparations

Craig recalls his dad’s moose…

“The last day we transported our ATVs by truck and then drove them to get to the spot we wanted to hunt. Upon arrival we set out on foot and then after a mere 100 yards off into the bush Devon let out a sickening cow call as he coughed and laughed at what dad and I had said. After some time went by Devon, dad and I were looking at pictures of Devon’s trophy room drooling nonetheless, only to look up to hear Devon say "Oh crap there’s a freaking moose!!!" at 50 yards dad let the thunder from his ultra .375 ultra mag out. Just as he shot, I knew the moose was down because the hit was in the "pump" station as my dad and I call it. The bull hunched and took off on its death sprint. I was hugging dad as he was reloading because I knew he got it. Devon had us saying the Canadian "eh!" throughout the trip, as we got to the bull I said to dad and Devon "that was a good shot eh!" Luckily enough the bull had dropped on an old trail just off the road so we walked back to the truck to back it in and load the moose. As we were skinning and quartering the bull we encountered a grizzly. So dad stood watch with the rifle as Devon and I skinned faster than we have ever skinned before. Then the heavy

It was just an all around good hunt! lifting came. We were all struggling, tripping and falling as the three of us were dragging the ribs.

I said to them "let me do it!" so I man-handled the almost 350 pound moose rib cage with my 160 pound self and loaded it onto a RAM 2500. Then I loaded the legs.

Then we got out of Dodge. No pun intended. “

"Oh crap there’s a freaking moose!!!

In a way, the hunt was good training. The men, led by born and raised rancher Devon Vadnais, were immersed in the Canadian wilderness for nearly a week. Laden with gear, at the mercy of the elements, they sought completion of a wellplanned mission. There were no guarantees, there were no promises made – there were just the Rocky Mountains, the trees and the Chinook wind between them and their chosen game.

In the end, Mirek filled his tag – at approximately 10:00 AM during the final day of their hunt.

Regardless of the late harvest, THA had the meat processed and ready for their return flight the following morning.

You couldn’t write a better script. Both men went home with the experience of a lifetime.

And Mirek spent a week with his son.

As guide Devon Vadnais put it, plainly: “It was just an all around good hunt!”

Good luck, Craig. And God Bless.

Hunt Alberta – get the facts 73

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Article

Buck Fever As we watched the mule deer buck of my dreams bound over the far ridge I was kicking myself for not taking a shot.

But in reality, my chances of making a good shot on him was not likely as he was at 350 to 450 yards running.

As this big buck disappeared over the hill, my guide, Brett commented “That’s one of the biggest mule deer bucks I have ever seen!” Brett has guided all types of hunters in Alberta for more than ten years, so I figured this buck was a dandy. This was the second day of my four day hunt in one of the prairie zones of southern Alberta. I could only pray that this buck and I would cross paths again.

I suppose I should start by telling you that this passion to harvest a big 74 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

muley started for me back in 1964, when I first passed the Hunter’s Safety course at the age of twelve. I was born and raised in eastern Montana, which is just a few hundred miles from this hunt in Alberta.

As a young hunter back then, I had an old hand-me-down rifle that I swear you could shoot around a corner with! We didn’t hunt for trophy animals. We hunted for deer period. Not that I didn’t see some monster bucks when I was growing up; I was just not lucky enough to get

one. Deer weren’t as populous as they are today and because my family was not well-to-do, we lived off the wild game we harvested each fall. So whether it was a doe or a buck, we tried to harvest it.

Through the years that followed, my focus shifted to full-time work and raising a family of my own. I didn’t have the time or the resources to hunt one of these trophies. Yet, always in the back of my mind somewhere, I could visualize a 30-inch muley trotting

over a far away ridge and felt a yearning to pursue it. Now that I am retired and have a little time and money to devote to hunting again, the hunting landscape in Montana has changed. Gone are the days when you knew the landowners and could get permission to hunt. Today many of the ranches have been purchased by outside entities and are posted or the hunting rights have been leased. It is downright difficult for a resident hunter in Montana to find a trophy mule deer on Bureau of Land Management property.

“That’s one of the biggest mule deer bucks I have ever seen!”

So I figured if I was going to fulfill my dream of getting a big muley, I would have to go where there are some trophy bucks left. My research indicated that Alberta was the logical choice. Alberta has the prairie terrain that I am accustomed to and is within a few hundred miles of my home. I spent many more hours researching outfitters on the Internet before settling on Trophy Hunters Alberta for my hunt.

What I especially liked about the outfitter, Tyler, with Trophy Hunters Alberta is that he didn’t over-sell what he could deliver on. When I inquired about the ability to harvest a mule deer buck between 170 to 190 inches, he said that it would depend on the zone hunted and my physical ability to walk extensively packing a rifle. Mother Nature also plays a vital role. For instance, a big buck can easily succumb to a long

cold winter if much of their body reserves are used up during rut.

Tyler did not leave the impression that I could just show up and expect to harvest a big muley. But he did tell me that big mule deer had been harvested in this zone in year’s previous and that there were still big deer bucks in the zone.

So as I fished away the summer of 2010, I often day-dreamed about the big muley I would hunt for in southern Alberta come fall. Often I would stop in at the sporting good stores and admire the trophy deer mounts of my friends and other lucky hunters. By November, I couldn’t have been more ready for the hunt of my dreams.

Through the Outfitter, I had arranged for an additional two days of pre scouting prior to the actual hunt.

The two days of pre scouting cost me a little bit more but it was worth every penny! After clearing Customs, I arrived at the ranch where my accommodations were on a Sunday afternoon. Following a brief introduction with the rancher and his wife, I felt totally at ease in their presence – as if I had known them my whole life. The hardworking couple had down-to-earth personalities and both had a great sense of humor. The food was way beyond good and the lodging was fine.

The following day I met up with my outfitter guide, Brett, who seemed to be the quiet type. We scouted around the ranch that day and then had to drive to a small town to get diesel fuel, which is a scarce commodity in southern Alberta. But

I enjoyed the drive as it provided me an opportunity to look over the countryside, which reminded me very much of home with its prairie grass pastures and coulees filled with sage and willows. Perfect mule deer country! We also saw several head of elk and tons of antelope.The next morning we got up before daylight to head for the Milk River to scout. As we were driving in the dark, we saw a real nice muley in a ditch close to the road. We made our way over to the Milk River and began checking out a few coulees.

The delicate Alberta breezes at the start of our day turned into 30 to 50 miles per hour wind by the time we made it back to the truck! While Brett and I ate a sandwich, I asked him if all the prairie hunting involved extensive walking.

He informed me that prairie hunts are almost exclusively walking and after you harvest a critter you pack him out. I am fifty-eight years old and not in bad shape, I don’t smoke and I am not overweight; but at that point I was beginning to doubt whether I had prepared physically enough to hunt this zone. In Montana, its lots of spot and stalk from a 4 x 4! But here, you walk! So if you are a little out of shape, this is not your kind of hunt!

“This hunt in Alberta was truly the hunt of a lifetime!”

What I especially liked about the outfitter, Tyler, with Trophy Hunters Alberta is that he didn’t over-sell what he could deliver on. When I inquired about the ability to harvest a mule deer buck between 170 to Hunt Alberta – get the facts 75

190 inches, he said that it would the south.

We walked for a mile or two and as I stopped, Brett walked across the creek to join me. As we are talking, a few does and fawns came out of thesuccumb to a long cold winter if much of their body reserves are used up during rut. Tyler did not leave the impression that I could just show up and expect to harvest a big muley. But he did tell me that big mule deer had been harvested in this zone in year’s previous and that there were still big deer bucks in the zone.

So as I fished away the summer of 2010, I often day-dreamed about the big muley I would hunt for in southern Alberta come fall. Often I would stop in at the sporting good stores and admire the trophy deer mounts of my friends and other lucky hunters. By November, I couldn’t have been more ready for the hunt of my dreams.

Through the Outfitter, I had arranged for an additional two days of pre scouting prior to the actual hunt. The two days of pre scouting cost me a little bit more but it was worth every penny! After clearing Customs, I arrived at the ranch where my accommodations were on a Sunday afternoon. Following a brief introduction with the rancher and his wife, I felt totally at ease in their presence – as if I had known them my whole life. The hardworking couple had down-toearth personalities and both had a great sense of humor. The food was way beyond good and the lodging was fine.

The following day I met up with my outfitter guide, Brett, who seemed to be the quiet type. We scouted around the ranch that day and then had to drive to a small town to get diesel fuel, 76 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

which is a scarce commodity in southern Alberta. But I enjoyed the drive as it provided me an opportunity to look over the countryside, which reminded me very much of home with its prairie grass pastures and coulees filled with sage and willows. Perfect mule deer country! We also saw several head of elk and tons of antelope.

The next morning we got up before daylight to head for the Milk River to scout. As we were driving in the dark, we saw a real nice muley in a ditch close to the road. We made our way over to the Milk River and began checking out a few coulees. The delicate Alberta breezes at the start of our day turned into 30 to 50 miles per hour wind by the time we made it back to the truck! While Brett and I ate a sandwich, I asked him if all the prairie hunting involved extensive walking.

He informed me that prairie hunts are almost exclusively walking and after you harvest a critter you pack him out.

I am fifty-eight yearsold and not in bad shape, I don’t smoke and I am not overweight; but at that point I was beginning to doubt whether

I had prepared physically enough to hunt this zone. In Montana, its lots of spot and stalk from a 4 x 4! But here, you walk! So if you are a little out of shape, this is not your kind of hunt!

Wednesday morning, the first day of the actual hunt, we decided to hunt the Milk River. So Brett and I headed out early to get to the area before daylight. We parked the truck and walked about three or four miles to the edge of the river. We got there about daylight and started glassing. I was amazed at the differences in river here as compared to the Milk River by my home in Montana. The river valley was much narrower with deep coulees coming off the river. The trees and bushes were radiating their fall colors. We spotted mule and whitetail deer in the bottom. Brett headed east to look down the river at some other deer and advised me to stay put and keep glassing.

I watched a couple of mule deer bucks in the 150 class as one buck chased the other buck from his harem of does. I saw several muleys to the I watched a couple of mule deer bucks in the 150 class as one buck chased

the other buck from his harem of does. I saw several muleys to the north of me, but as I walked over to get a better look, none of them were shooters. As I sat taking in the sights up and down the river, Brett returned. He had spotted a fairly heavy deer across the river that

and visit with our hosts. I was worn out, so I turned in early.

looked pretty good, perhaps 27 to 28 inches wide with good forks, but he was a 3 x 4; so we passed on him because it was only day one of my hunt. So we walked back to the east and look at the other deer that were now entering the river bottom.

After several more hours of glassing, Brett suggested we work our way back to the truck. As I walked the four miles back to the truck, I felt tired and questioned whether I would be able to finish the hunt. On the drive back towards the ranch, we made several more hikes to check places where Brett sometimes finds deer.

deer, just not the right one! When we arrived back at the truck, I was half beat from walking. We had a sand wich and water, and Brett said “Do you remember the deer we saw along the road the other morning before daylight?” I said, “I do.” He suggested we go park the truck to see if we can find the coulee where he might be hanging around. So off we go on another walk. Brett and I hit this coulee and started working it south toward the main drainage.

As evening approached, we saw a wide antlered deer and got close enough for a look but he was only a 3 x 3. Back at the ranch, we ended the day with a wonderful supper

The next morning found us at the north side of the ranch where we started walking this set of drainages.

We spent the next three hours walking these draws and kicked out plenty of

We walked several miles when Brett signaled to me to cross the coulee. I eased over to where he was and he pointed out a deer lying in the buck brush about 100 yards from us. We could see the tops of his antlers and once in awhile the fronts but we couldn’t see his head, so had no way of knowing if he was 22 inches or 28

inches wide. As we tried to get a better look, the deer made one jump and was behind a hill. As he appeared a second time, he was accompanied by a second buck that was even wider.

Both bucks were at least 26 inches wide, tall and pretty heavy, but offered no shot as they headed down the

coulee toward the main creek. I cursed myself for not having been ready when the buck jumped up.

We followed them down the coulee and when we got to the main creek, we spotted the pair southwest of us about a mile, headed west up the creek. We rushed to try to intercept them. Up on a small knoll, we glassed for awhile where we saw other deer but no sign of the two bucks. I kicked myself again for not being ready. Maybe I just needed to be faster. Maybe I needed some “Lawson Luck!” Brett brought me back to reality by suggesting that we walk the main creek back to the east, as we hadn’t hunted that area yet.

Brett took the north side of the creek and I took the south.

We walked for a mile or two and as I stopped, Brett walked across the Hunt Alberta – get the facts 77

four words that were music to my ears,“This one won’t ground-shrink!”

As I stared down at this magnificent trophy, I realized just how lucky I was to have come to Alberta and spent two days scouting and two days hunting and to have harvested the trophy of a lifetime!

creek to join me. As we are talking, a few does and fawns came out of the creek to the east of us. Then we saw a small buck head down the creek in the same direction of the does. All of a sudden, I hear Brett hiss, “BIG BUCK! BIG BUCK! In the creek!” I look down the creek and all I could see were these huge antlers going through the sage brush.

I looked down the hill below us at about 100 yards and there stood this monster muley!

Once in awhile I got a glimpse of his body. I tried to kneel so that I could use my sticks, but all I could see was sage brush! The buck finally came out of the creek and that is where the best part of my story began! As we walked up the far ridge, Brett said again, “That deer was huge!” I felt bad, but maybe I’ll find this monster again.

This was BUCK FEVER at its best!

The monster didn’t wait around for the third shot as he wheeled out and headed across the creek at a full run. I chambered my third round and when he cleared the buck brush I swung out in front of him and let drive again. The buck disappeared and I looked at Brett and said, “I took him out.” The buck had disappeared but that telltale thump from the 180 Accubond bullet told the tale.

Once on the ridge we looked around and wondered out loud where he might have gone. We started down the other side of the ridge and suddenly, Brett grabbed my arm and pulled me down. He said “The buck is right below us!” I looked towards the creek and could see a 4 x 4 buck coming out of the creek north of us. I asked Brett if that was the same buck and he said, “No.” 78 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Brett asked me if I was ready and I answered, “Yes.” I don’t grab my sticks, noting this will be duck soup. I got on one knee, chambered a round and let drive. Nothing! I chambered another round and fired again. Nothing!

Brett asked me to chamber another round, which I did, but there was no need. As we walked around a patch of buck brush, we got our first really good look at this bruiser. If you have hunted mule deer you have probably heard the term “ground-shrink.” Well Brett said

All of a sudden, I hear Brett hiss, “BIG BUCK! BIG BUCK! In the creek!”

It was almost surreal! But as I told my critics when I spent the money for the hunt, “You have to go where they still have some of these trophy animals!” Yes, I had “Lawson Luck” but I owe a huge debt of gratitude to the outfitter who didn’t oversell his hunt. But even more, I owe my gratitude to the best damn guide a hunter could ever get! Brett’s diligence, tireless work ethic, patience and honesty led me to this trophy. So it’s not just my trophy or memory, it is ours. So I can sum it all up by saying, “This hunt in Alberta was truly the hunt of a lifetime!”

Chuck Lawson

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Article

Hard-Won Ram

Hard work and a little light hunting pressure yield a trophy bighorn ram.

On one hand, Peterson and guide Gordy Wagner had stalked within 85 yards of a legal bighorn ran and 14 ewes – and the sheep were clueless to their presence.

On the other, just as Peterson was lining out a stalk, he saw on odd looking shape in the pine trees ahead. “It took a minute for it to register, but finally realized that the shape was another bowhunter,” he recalls.

“He was also about 85 yards from the sheep, and they were heading right toward him. I had been so excited, thinking I had a chance at that ram, and then it seemed like everything was done.”

But Peterson wasn’t deflated for long.

Though it seemed the other hunter had a slam-dunk opportunity to ambush the ram, something – a swirling wind, the hunter’s snow camo against the trees, the sixth sense of game – spooked the sheep.

“All of a sudden, the sheep stopped, turned, and started running out of there,” Peterson said. “They actually headed back past us, toward a little bench on the mountaintop we had just passed through. I didn’t have time to think, I just ran after them. I was hoping I could get to that bench before they disappeared. When I reached the backside of the bench, I nocked an arrow, came to full draw and just rose up.”

Fortunately for Travis, the ram was still on the bench. But the ewes – which had stopped briefly to grab a mouthful of grass – were moving off the other side and into the crags below. Naturally, the ram not only noticed their move, but was following, “I estimated the distance at 30-35 yards,” Peterson said. “I just put the pin dead on his body, then pulled slightly forward. Before I could even think, the arrow was on its way.”

That arrow carried not only the possibility of a lethal hit, but also the lofty dreams of the young Minnesotan with it. Peterson, a highly successful taxidermist still in his 30s, has long been an avid Hunt Alberta – get the facts 79

bowhunter. But with several trophy whitetails to his credit, Peterson felt the pull of other big game species.

Searching for a way to make those dreams reality, Travis eventually found Chad Lenz, an Alberta outfitter (Savage Encounters) who specializes in bowhunts for trophy moose, elk, bear, and deer. On recent hunts with Lenz, Travis has not only taken a fine

eight non-residents tags for the area, and even locals have to draw for a license,” Peterson said. “Because the sheep aren’t rifle hunted, they’re more relaxed and approachable than in other areas. It was just an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.”

bull elk, but also a Pope & Youngclass velvet whitetail, and the P&Y world record velvet moose..

at the tail end of the season. “Hunting ends on December 1, which is when the main sheep rut begins there,” Travis said. “We figured by hunting then, we’d pick up more of the rams looking for ewes.” Indeed, Peterson and guide Gordy Wagner noticed plenty of sheep activity, even as they rode horses to their camp high up Pigeon Mountain. “It was pretty amazing.” Travis recalls, “As we rode up through the timber, we bumped into a bull elk and some cows, then some sheep as soon as we broke from the timber. On the first morning of hunting, we glassed three rams,

So when Lenz mentioned sheep hunting to Peterson, the Gopher State bowhunter was all ears. When Lenz said he had two tags in the Canmore Bow Zone, Peterson adjusted his entire life – and a considerable amount of money – to make the hunt happen. Located near Alberta’s Banff Provincial Park, Canmore is a huge, scenic, archery-only area that has likely produced more P&Y bighorns than anywhere in North America.

“Chad told me that there are only 80 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

Though bowhunting begins in early fall in Canmore, Travis elected to hunt

including one legal one.”

The hunting, however, was far from easy. In addition to the high elevation, Travis and Gordy had to negotiate extremely rugged terrain. “I’m in pretty decent shape,” he said.

“But there were some tough hikes.

We were camped up high, and it would still take an hour or more to get

to some of the peaks where we’d start glassing every morning. On most of the hikes I was fine, but on one hike the second day, I just had to sit and rest.

I think the altitude just got to me.”

Travis had several sub-legal rams within bow range the first week, as well as an encounter with another trio that included two legal rams. According to Travis’s rangefinder, the animals were beyond his effective range, and he passed the shot. “Then we decided to check out a couple of other mountains,” he said. “We ended up seeing a couple of mature rams, but they were in places that offered no stalk.

There’s no Sunday hunting in Alberta, so on Saturday of the first week, we took the horses down the mountain and went into Canmore to shower and rest. On Monday, we tried another mountain where, the year before, a hunter had missed a 180-ince ram (the P&Y minimum is 140 inches). We hiked clear to the top and saw one sheep all day. So we decided to head back up to Pigeon Mountain where we’d started. By then the snow was too slippery for the horses, so we put all our gear on backpacks and just hiked up to our base camp.”

Once back on Pigeon, the pair immediately began seeing sheep. “There were 20-30 ewes that consistently used the mountain,” Travis said. “There were some open patches of grass that they liked, And with the rut coming on, the rams were starting to move pretty well, checking out the ewes. We could hear rams banging heads every once in awhile. One morning we woke up to that sound.”

FINALLY, ON WEDNESDAY MORNING of the second week, Travis and Gordy encountered the ram mentioned at the beginning of this story. “We were hiking up the backside of the mountain when a young ram came busting over the top, running right toward us,” Travis said.

“We thought maybe he’d just fought with a bigger ram, so we scrambled to the top. That’s when we saw my ram.

Once we knew he was legal, we just stayed above him, using the ridge as cover. We got within 85 yards when I saw the other hunter. Then the sheep saw him and turned to run back. And I just sprinted for the backside of that bench. When I reached it, I came to full draw and just popped up.”

The ram was on the move at the shot, so Travis led him slightly, aiming at the broad shoulder on the mature sheep.

And that’s exactly where the arrow struck. “He took off and disappeared over the ledge, and I ran after him, hoping to keep him in sight,” Travis said.

“He bailed off the ledge and I slid down a steep chute, feet first. When I came to a stop, the ram was running across another flat spot and I nocked another arrow. I just aimed right above his rump at this back, and just when I released, he disappeared.”

As soon as the ram and the arrow flew over the ledge, Travis was on the run again. “I got to the ledge and suddenly Gordy was right there with me,” he said.

He’s been watching the whole thing from above and came running down when he saw my first shot. When we looked down, we could see the ram stumbling around, really wobbling. My second arrow had also hit him!”

The pair knew the ram was mortally wounded, and they began the slow descent toward the animal. The terrain was incredibly rugged, a fact that heightened Peterson’s appreciation of the bighorn’s ability to negotiate nearvertical, rock-strewn hillsides with fluid speed. While Travis reached the level where they’d last spotted the ram, Gordy stayed slightly above to watch for the sheep. “When I got there, the ram was gone,” Travis said. “It was like he’d disappeared into thin air. I looked around and saw this tunnel-like chute that cut across the mountain. There’s no way he could be in that, I thought. I looked up at Gordy. He couldn’t see him either. So I walked toward that chute and the ram was bedded in it. He ran again and I nocked another arrow and shot. The arrow went right between his legs, hit the rocks, and just exploded.”

Travis followed the ram a third time, and when he reached the last place he’d seen the sheep, he looked down a long, steep slope and saw his trophy, piled up in the

snow. Hunter and guide spent many minutes celebrating the kill and reflecting on a hard hunt and well-earned trophy.

And then the work began. “We found the ram about noon and had him skinned, caped, and quartered two hours later,” Travis said. “Then we loaded him up on our packs and started climbing back toward base camp. It took us a long time and a lot of searching to find a route. We were on our hands and knees a lot, and at one point we had to build a fire and rest. I think we got back to the tent about 2 a.m., and then we drank two gallons of Kool-Aid and fell asleep.”

Which brings us, of course, back to the good news/bad news nature of bowhunting. It was a long, exhausting hike down Pigeon Mountain for Travis and Gordy the next day, hauling the dead heft of a dandy bighorn, plus their entire camp, on their backs. There was no way to describe the task minus works like “gruelling” and “exhausting,” Yet Peterson wouldn’t trade that hike for anything.

“There were times on that hunt when I worked harder than I ever had,” he said.

“But I’d go again in a second. I’d always heard how sheep hunting gets addictive.

Now I know why.”

AUTHOR’s NOTES: Travis’ ram scored 150 ½ inches P&Y. When he got the sheep home, Travis made a beautiful full-body mount of the animal going down a rockslide.

Travis shot a Mathews Switchback set at 70 pounds, Easton A/C/C arrows, and Muzzy 100-grain, four-blade heads. He bought top-quality gear recommended

by Chad Lenz, including a good sleeping bag and, most important, Meindl boots.

“Those boots were probably what got me that ram,” he said. “Without good boots, you can’t even think about hunting those mountains.”

Scott Bestul Hunt Alberta – get the facts 81

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Article

Wolf Dreams The Plan Everyday of our lives we make plans.

We plan our day; plan for the future plan and for our next hunt. All plans have goals and our personal goals are often based on our dreams. Sometimes dreams are wishes with really little chance of success. They are still our dreams, so we plan and we try and we work toward fulfilling them. Because of the low odds of success, plans are constantly changing, but when a plan comes to attrition, there is nothing more satisfying. There is nothing better than when a “plan comes together”.

82 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

As with you, I love to hunt. I’ve become hooked on hunting trips for different species of animals, always in a new area of North America. For some reason I have been blessed with hunts that turn out just as I’d dreamed. I recently had a successful spring black bear hunt in Saskatchewan. I had taken my chocolate color phase bear, just as had hoped and planned.

To avoid disappointment, I try to keep my dreams realistic. When I got the urge to hunt wolves, my dreams may have gone a bit over the top. I take that back, it was

way over the top. I contacted Todd Bunnage, owner of Rugged Outfitting in Alberta Canada. My sole purpose was to go there and hunt wolf. In swapping e-mails, Todd gave me a 25% chance of success. Either Todd is the most honest outfitter known to man, or the percentage was actually much lower and exaggerated up to 25%. Either way, if I was in it for success only, this may be a bad investment.

No matter how hard you plan, Things happen! One mistake in my plan forced

me to change flights and we didn’t get into to camp until 2:00 in the morning.

Needless to say we were a bit groggy at 4:30 AM and a morning of road hunting and bait checking was pretty nice.

I didn’t see any wolves that morning, but I saw what seemed like every possible

North American game animal in existence. In a few short hours we saw countless Elk, a number of Moose, a Lynx, Whitetail deer and Bald Eagles.

Then to hear stories of taking Antelope in the morning and Rams in the afternoon, while passing up Mule deer in between, made me think I was in hunting heaven.

Alberta has it all; the variety of land features makes this place ideal for all sorts of game animals.

We proceeded to a valley that was known as the stomping grounds of a pack of wolves. Here we would try our first calling sequence.

The plan was to have some lunch, and a giant cup of much needed coffee, and to do some calling that afternoon. Wolves and coyotes are hunted on a small game license in Alberta and any number can be taken. Calling and baiting are the methods of bringing the wolves out in the open, but in reality most wolves are taken by hunters while pursuing other game and shot at long distances.

Another hunter, who has hunted all over the world, was with us at this time, he had extended his stay to hunt a couple more days. We checked baits but they

showed no signs of action. Todd mentioned as we traveled the logging roads that there was a herd of wild horses roaming the area, and one of them had a broken leg. This pack of horses was descendents of horses abandoned by a rancher many years ago. These horses were left for dead but instead of dying flourished into bands of wild horses throughout the central Alberta Rockies.

I set up in a 100 acre clear cut as Todd disappeared into the Spruce to do some predator calling. Moments after Todd disappeared into the trees, he reemerged motioning me to come over.

I had no idea what he wanted, but I was pretty sure we weren’t stalking a pack of wolves.

I got to the edge of the tree line where Todd stood and he whispered “There is something dead in the clearing?” I was a bit stunned, not knowing what it was so we got the glasses out and saw a wild horse had recently died but we did not know how? We moved in and found Mother Nature had finally called the broken down old stud home. We could smell him as we got there and the gang green and damage to the broken leg was too much. He had finally died. Todd explained that the wild horses were often at the “lick” on the other side of the trees.

The “licks” are 100% natural mineral water that boils out of the ground. This is a natural hospital for the many animals as the minerals help in everything from growth to healing. These areas are all throughout the Rockies and attract all

kinds of animals and of course where the animals are often the predators are there too.

The plan was unveiling itself right before our very eyes. The bait was exactly 100 yards from a stand placed 20 feet high, just inside the edge of the woods. This

was at the bottom a long valley the wolves were known to run. It was only a matter of time before they found their meal and I had all week to wait for them.

The wolves were sure to visit this “lick” knowing the frequency the other animals, their potential prey, came here to drink the mineral enriched spring water. Hence the name Lick, animals loved the taste of the much needed mineral water. A natural salt lick!

We sat in watch over the bait that afternoon then again the next morning.

We saw nothing but a few crows flying about. The other hunter in camp had to pack up and leave the afternoon of the second day. As we ate lunch the topic of “beating the crows” came up.

I had to ask what they were talking about, “beat the crows?” They explained that the crows, being a very leery creature, would not feed on the bait when they knew there was danger near.

As long as they knew we were near the bait, they would not feed. If I could only get into the stand without them knowing it, they would feel comfortable enough to feed. When they feed they make noise and this noise is like the dinner bell to the wolves. First of all, if the crows think it’s safe and are eating, the wolves think it is Hunt Alberta – get the facts 83

safe. The wolves are also a little ticked off beings how the crows are stealing their food. Either way if the wolves are near and hear these crows on the bait, they will come right in to chase those thieving birds away and enjoy a free meal.

Problem was I was walking to the stand in the daylight, and the crows would spot me as I got closer. To fool them, Todd wanted me in that stand before sunrise.

Get there before the crows start to stir.

Problem is, we had to drive over an hour to get there and it was a mile walk in. We would have to get up pretty early in the morning to pull this off. Todd suggested we pack up camp and move to a hotel within 10 minutes of the hunting area. It was obvious with bait like this; I would hunt this area all week. So we moved.

The next morning we were at drop off point on top of the hill, before 5:00 in the morning. We agreed that Todd would check back with me by radio at 11:00. If the bait had been hit, I was staying all day, knowing whatever ate there would eventually be back. I piled out of the truck. Todd wished me luck and drove off. There I was alone in the dark, ready for my mile walk to the stand.

I’m from New York and the meanest thing we have is black bear and very few 84 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

of them. They live in other parts of the state no less. Luckily the grizzly bears were probably still sleeping. I had mountain lions on my mind, and I was walking to a place that I hoped had a pack of hungry wolves. Mind you, we saw wolf

tracks the first day that were the size of my outstretched hand. I have pictures!

Todd said those tracks were probably from a 175 pound wolf. My worst thought was the fact that you won’t see just one wolf, these animals come in packs. 4 shells in my rifle versus a pack of wolves in the dark. I didn’t figure this into my plan.

Alberta had a warm spell, melting most of the snow. It wasn’t deep, but what was there was frozen and terribly crunchy. It was the kind of snow you could almost walk on, then at the last second you’d fall through. There was no way to keep quiet. This helped calm my nerves, because I told myself there was no way that wolves would stick around with me making all this noise. In reality, they would just slink to the cover, knowing exactly where I was at all times. None the less, I made that mile walk rather quickly, If was going to make noise no matter what so I may as well get there and get settled in.

I entered the lick, an open area probably 300 by 500 yards long. Little vegetation grew there because of the high mineral content of the water.

I had to cross the lick to get to the stand.

The bait was on the way, so I would check and see if it had been chewed at during the night. From the edge, I glassed and could see the bait in the moonlight, and no other movement around it. If they were there, I chased them out of the lick. I’m feeling pretty safe now. I felt more and more safe the farther into the open I walked. I got to the bait to find that it had been hit. “Good”, I thought, “I’m gonna stay all day” Just then a fire siren went off. I was confused and a bit shocked. “Was there a fire tower nearby?” I said to myself looking into the hills for signs of a tower. Then another went off from a different direction. Then it hit me.

“That’s no siren, its wolves!!!” At that moment I felt I was completely surrounded by up to 20 wolves. Howls came from all directions, echoing through the valley. Worst of all, I’m standing by their food. I start toward the stand, wanting to run the 100 yards, but two things stopped me. First it would be real noisy running and maybe chase them away. After all I am here to hunt them. The second and more truthful reason is the stand was in the edge of the woods, it was dark over there and there were wolves howling in the trees.

Believe me the “chicken” reason was overriding the “big time hunter” reason, but I went.

I made it to the stand and scaled the 20 foot ladder in no time. I was sure glad to get off the ground. Sweat poured off my forehead. I thought I’d probably freeze solid before 11:00 came. Fear faded away quickly and reality started to hit me. “There are wolves here” I was here to hunt and I had better get ready. I got

my video camera and other gear out and set it down. I put on my head net, then my camo cap, and as my hand starts back down from the brim of my hat, I hear the wing beats of a bird landing in the tree not 15 feet from me.

I stopped and rolled my eyes toward the bird. It was the lead crow. He came to investigate whether I was part of the tree stand or danger. I froze, hand still in the air. I didn’t even blink as the crow stared at me. He tilted his beady little head from side to side like a puppy would, trying to get me to move. It felt like I didn’t blink for 7 minutes, even though it was probably a lot less time than that. He finally became convinced that I was part of the tree stand, cawed and flew to the ground. Immediately crows came from every direction, landing and circling the bait. I did it. I had beaten the lead crow.

The plan, it was working.

There are things in nature that can only be seen to be believed, and the ritual of the crows is one of them. You’d think that if it was safe, the crows would immediately start eating. It is much more complicated than that. The birds first circle the bait standing a few feet away. They hop toward it as if their legs are handcuffed together. Then they hop back. This dance was done three times.

All at once they jump on the bait, cackle and immediately fly off, as if they are practicing their escape plan. This ritual is practiced multiple times. As the others stand in a circle around the bait, two crows take off like fighters jets circling the speedway moments before the start of the Daytona 500. Farther and farther out their circle goes, until they are buzzing the trees at the edge of the lick. When they are done, they land, give the all clear squawk and all the birds jump on and start to feed. When crows feed, they fight, a ton of meat setting in front of them and they fight for one little piece.

The racquet they make is unbelievable.

They are ringing the predator dinner bell.

Everything is going as planned. I beat the crows. They are ringing the dinner bell for the wolves which I know are in the area. I stare across the lick to the farthest edge; in the direction I heard most of the howls. I’m convinced the wolves will come from that direction. But will they come all the way in? I sit for maybe 15 minutes, barely cooling off from my panic attack. All at once I hear the crows take off and fly away. “Did they see me?”

I thought. Did I ruin the plan?

As I turn and look toward the bait, I see a gray dog like creature running out of the woods toward the bait. Gray, alone and still a long way away. I thought it was a coyote. Todd said coyotes were huge and often mistaken for wolves. I didn’t care; a Western coyote would be a great trophy. As this creature gets closer to the bait, behind it a black figure comes out of the woods taking the same path., then another gray and another black. I’m in shock! “These are wolves, this is a pack of wolves” I thought to myself. I couldn’t believe this was happening to me. I dreamt it, we planned for it, but I never expected it would really happen. Six wolves reach the bait, 3 of them are black and the rest were different shades of gray.

The animals tear into this old stud, ripping massive chunks of meat off the bone. Pieces of carcass are flying in the air. Their powerful jaws severe meat and bone in one powerful crunch. I first though I had to get this on video, so

others could see and believe this vicious show of power and fury. I didn’t dare pick up the camera. I couldn’t blow this chance of a lifetime, so I got ready, bringing the gun to my shoulder.

Choices. Which one do I take? The wolf on the right was almost pure white with a gray bandana on the back of its neck. I wanted a white wolf ever since I saw an Arctic wolf at the taxidermist in Saskatchewan. This wolf was definitely the smallest of the six. The wolf on the left was a black one and would be the choice of 99% of the hunters. A black wolf defines the mystic and horror of all wolves portrayed in movies. Either would make an awesome mount.

Out of the corner of my eye another black wolf comes into the field. He walked slow, with confidence, I wondered if this could be the Alpha male. I could not judge his size and only hoped he would join the others so I could see if he was bigger. He circled toward me and disappeared behind the trees. I didn’t know where he was heading and I feared he may scent me. I couldn’t wait any longer; I had to take my shot at one of the wolves at the bait.

As I said earlier, my dream was a little farfetched. I dreamt of taking two wolves at the same bait. I didn’t like thinking this way being afraid I would blow the first shot while thinking of the second.

Making a second shot would be tough.

Try for two and come home with none, was not what I wanted to do. I tried not to think of this scenario, but I couldn’t shake it. When I dreamt of the hunt, I dreamt of pulling this off.

The only possible way of taking two wolves was to take the black one on the left, and hope the white one with the gray bandana ran to my right. I had about a 15 foot opening to shoot through on the right. I settled down on a firm rest and Hunt Alberta – get the facts 85

the sounds, but it worked. When the wolves are mounted, they will make a great trophy, but this tape is the real trophy to me. It brings back all the adrenaline, fear and emotion of that experience. Something very few people will experience. As Todd said, “They don’t make a man big enough, not to be afraid of that sound, especially when you’re alone and in the dark” The hour had past and I couldn’t take it any longer. I got out of the tree and made my way toward the bait. I crossed a path of crimson red streaking through the snow. The gray wolf was hit hard. He couldn’t have gone far. put the cross hairs on the blacks chest. I kept telling myself “finish this before you do anything else”. I squeezed the trigger.

As the muzzle came back down and the scope focused on the bait, there were no wolves to be seen. They were off and running in every direction.

The white one was running to my right and quicker than Lee Harvey Oswald, I racked in another shell. The cross hairs came onto the wolf as he disappeared behind the trees. The wolf was totally stretched out, no way was I going to get a shot at that wolf. Behind it came another wolf, a gray one. I threw the gun toward him, the cross hairs catching up to him as he hesitated and looked back for the others. A fatal mistake as I yanked the trigger and he spun. He changed direction, now running to my left. I could see the trail of blood in the snow. I had hit him hard. As he raced toward the woods, I shot again. As he reached the trees, he slowed to barely a crawl. He was hurting bad and I was sure he wouldn’t go far.

I was confident I had a gray wolf. I sat back in the stand. My heart started to slow. What a morning, cold and bris, 86 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

the sun just rising, thinking of warming the day. The air was fresh and I was gleaming over the success of another hunt. The plan worked. My dream, it came true, or did it? I couldn’t see the black wolf. He could be behind the trees, but maybe I pulled the shot and missed.

If that was what happened I still felt content in knowing that I would take the gray one home, no matter what.

I usually wait at least a half an hour before going after deer back home. I wasn’t going anywhere because Todd wouldn’t be back for 4 ½ more hours, it was only 6:30.

Besides this isn’t a deer, this animal may bite. So, I decided to wait an hour and enjoy the morning from the safety of my stand. Just then the hair on the back of my neck stood up. The goose bumps rose on my arms. The same thing it is doing right now as I write these words.

The pack started howling to each other.

The Alpha male was calling in his division so he could assess the damages. You could hear their predicament in the tones of their howls, the loneliness, pain, and sadness. I taped the sound with my video camera. I couldn’t tell until I got home if I actually recorded

I walked toward the bait, with no black wolf in sight. I hoped for a blood trail, but instead, there he was 30 yards lying behind a bush. What a beautiful, yet frightening animal. Those black eyes staring out of the black fur, built to disappear in the dark. The pure white, 1 ½” long fangs, polished from the bones of the victims they caught.

I’m not what you’d call a God fearing person, but I thanked God: I always do.

For making my dreams come true. For providing a guide like Todd who said and delivered exactly what he said. For creating a creature like the wolf.

I didn’t hunt this wolf because I hate them. Some people do. They devastate ranchers stock. Wolves Kill for fun, they kill for food and they often eat before death comes to the animal. They are terrible, viscous animals, yet beautiful and deserving of our respect. These two animals will now live forever in my home and then my kids home one day. Most of All I thanked the horse for making the ultimate sacrifice for me. I’m glad the plan worked, making it worth the sacrifice. I love it when a plan comes together!

Pete Forman

Alberta offers some of the most exciting mule deer hunting in North America

Article

Brock Lesnar

TAPS OUT WHITETAIL Brock Lesnar, the “baddest man on the planet,” took southern Alberta by storm at the tail end of 2010. He bagged two trophy deer in less than four days - a Muley and a Whitetail. The first was, in Brock’s words, “...a respectable, male deer buck”. The latter won Largest Whitetail in the provincenearly taking Brock’s arm off in the process. Brock's visit to Alberta will not be soon forgotten by him or anyone else involved in this captivating wilderness adventure. Here is the story of Brock Lesnar's ultimate hunt.

UFC Heavyweight Brock Lesnar Hunts Alberta and Wins Title Match

Brock and his crew arrived on a Tuesday morning at the Lethbridge Airport to temperatures around the -30C mark.

Wind chill and blizzard-like conditions made the drive down to Milk River a slow one. After the pre-hunt review with his outfitter Tyler Brill (of Trophy Hunters Alberta) and his guides Chad Stryker and Rylan King, Brock and his crew got settled in their lodgings for the evening. Brock began preparations mentally and physically for his southern Alberta Mule Deer hunt the following morning.

Brock’s crew included Gordy Krahn, the editor of North American Hunter magazine and co-host of North American Hunter-TV; Brian Kelvington, the media manager at ATK (Federal Ammunition); Jeff Carter and Terry Boeder, producers with North American Hunter-TV; and a camera crew.

If there's one thing that hits home as inspirational about Brock, it's his perseverance and work ethic. Brock is simply a hard-working fellow who puts in the long, hard hours to achieve Hunt Alberta – get the facts 87

success in even the toughest conditions. This guy's idea of a holiday is a gruelling four-day hunt on foot through the icy canyons of the Alberta outback in the dead of Canadian winter.

Brock Edward Lesnar was born in Webster, South Dakota. “I consider myself a blue-collar, redneck, outdoors kind of guy,” he says. He goes on to describe his youth: “Growing up I was a wrestler and a hunter, and first and foremost a farm boy.” Revealing the origin of his fighting spirit, Brock reflects: “... in South Dakota on the farm, it was family tradition, we hunted. We had our share of fights.”

extra mile and access remote areas while pursuing deer in Alberta, thereby maximizing his likelihood for a successful hunt. His extra efforts paid off, and his respect for the land, those around him, the big game and the spirit of the hunt brought both honour and completion to his expedition.

Brock's humble nature and tireless efforts helped give him the time, edge, and resources that are generally necessary to harvest extraordinary deer. Sure, guys get lucky sometimes, but Brock paid his dues in full and was no stranger to pain on this hunt. Offers to provide elements of luxury or to provide special treatment during his hunt were consistently declined by Brock who had really only one focus in mind - hunting big deer.

This was a gentleman of honour and respect in action, living out a life’s passion of trophy big game hunting.

On Day 1 of the hunt, Brock and his crew traversed the beautiful terrain of the southern prairies. As the snow storm was blowing, they focussed on the protected coulees in and around the Milk River. Brock passed on several decent Mule Deer bucks on his first day. He was after a wall hanger.

Even in death, the Whitetail strikes back Brock certainly enjoys a good fight: a successful amateur wrestler and three-time WWE champion, he left wrestling to purse MMA ( Mixed Martial Arts) and take on opponents in the challenging and now hugely popular UFC Octagon. But he tempers his fighting spirit with responsibility: as a fighter and an outdoorsman, Brock enjoys a reputation as a responsible person who puts in whatever effort victory demands. As an example of his mettle, Brock was willing to go the 88 Hunt Alberta – get the facts

On Day 2, while hunting Mule Deer, Brock and his guide Chad randomly spotted an impressive Whitetail buck, seemingly right out of the Alberta blue. At this point, the hunt was organized as a primary Mule Deer hunt so a Whitetail tag was not present in camp. Seeing this monster buck Thursday lit a fire on the back burner of Brock's imagination and confirmed that there are monster bucks on the loose in the Southern Prairies WMU (Wildlife Management Unit) and they were somewhere very, very close within range.

Disappointed, Brock kicked himself

for not purchasing the tags for a combo hunt at the outset of his excursion. As any recreational hunter knows, this was possibly a once-ina-lifetime kind of opportunity. Up to this point, Brock's imposing figure had drawn prompt affirmatives and agreement from the team at every turn - this was not the sort of fellow one says no to often. But Chad had a responsibility here. Brock deferred respectfully to Chad's authority, ethic, and professionalism as a licensed Alberta big game guide. Following protocol, Chad proceeded to get a hold of Tyler to describe the monster Whitetail and see about placing an order to procure a legal tag for the

Offers to provide elements of luxury or to provide special treatment during his hunt were consistently declined by Brock who had really only one focus in mind - hunting big deer. zone. Within a few short hours, Tyler was able to assure Chad and Brock a Whitetail tag and would be in camp by nightfall. After a five-hour drive by the outfitter, the Whitetail tag arrived in camp with the hope that the monster buck might be spotted again in the next two days of hunting.

On Day 3, Brock spotted three Mule Deer on the opposite side of a ravine. He scaled down a “huge cliff” and started “sneaking through the coulees” to approach a Mule Deer

buck. Gaining a clear shot, Brock took down the mature buck handily. Chad offered to pack the deer out, but Brock insisted he do it himself. The big American manoeuvred his way down the snowy ravine, shouldered 150lbs of meat, and hauled his pay load 500 feet back up the stark rock face of the coulee!

After his amazing Mule Deer experience (view the video clip at www.trophyhunters.ca), Brock's interest shifted to focus on Alberta Whitetail: Brock was eager to resume tracking the Whitetail buck he glassed Thursday.

Were it up to Brock, the ungulate would already be at the taxidermist’s - Brock had sighted in a clear shot when they first saw the big Whitey. Chad wasforced to ease Brock's 'Whitetail fevered' finger from the trigger and remind him they had no licensed tag for Whitetail on hand at the moment.

On Day 4, Saturday morning arrives.

Brock is determined to find the monster Whitetail and has a game plan in place.

The weather is colder than ever. Someone says, “We need to push if you want to get that buck, Brock.” Heeding these words, Brock gets up early to organize his gear. He knows he may never see an opportunity exactly like this again. Over breakfast, Brock tells the North American Hunter camera crew he is pairing up with Chad today and does not want to be slowed down. Brock and Chad gear up and head out after their big buck...alone.

Alberta, as many know, is prime territory for deer. Abundant food, water sources, and dense thicket provide an ideal habitat with perfect cover for deer against natural predators. Coming upon such a thicket near where they had previously seen the Whitetail, Chad begins pushing bush, trying to kick the deer out of hiding. Sure enough, after a short time, the monster Whitetail appears once more, presenting the opportunity for a clear shot. Seizing the moment, Brock lines up his sights, takes a deep breath, and takes down his prize animal. His Alberta hunt is a sweeping success.Excited, Brock approaches the deer with a huge grin.

"Now the real work begins": he packed out the Muley himself, and now it’s time for a solo retrieval of the Whitetail. But on his way out of the deep ravine, Brock suddenly loses his footing. He falls into a combat roll, and impales his arm directly on the trophy horns!

Walking along the Milk River basin, Brock and Chad decide to push some bush. After a no-see on Friday, they are unsure they will find the choice Whitetail they had glimpsed earlier.

River basin terrain in Southern

The massive tine punctures Brock’s forearm, piercing his skin and penetrating the tissue all the way to his bicep.

Even in death, the Whitetail strikes back. This would leave a gaping hole in Brock's arm, and a thick scar for a

reminder of of his brush with a monster Alberta buck. It could just as easily been Brock's neck or chest that was penetrated.

Chad rushes in to see how badly Brock is injured. Brock pulls his bloody arm from the Whitetail horns and squeezes it with his other hand. The wound is deep. He looks up at Chad and casually mentions he may need to have his arm examined; that he felt the point of the horn touch his bicep. They proceed to bind the wound on his lower arm temporarily with supplies from the First Aid kit. Hopefully there is no nervous tissue or arterial damage. Chad drives Brock directly to the hospital in Medicine Hat to receive proper medical attention for the injury.

There were no serious complications with the Whitetail-inflicted wound.

Brock recovered quickly (as he does from any fight) and is ready for another hunt. He says he'll be back to hunt the Alberta blue again some day. When Brock returns, the deer will be waiting.

For more information on hunting in Alberta, visit www.huntalberta.ca Hunt Alberta – get the facts 89

Map of Alberta

Prairie Parkland Foothills Mountain Nothern Boreal

Source: www.huntalberta.ca Hunt Alberta – get the facts 91

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