Introduction: Why Moose Hunting Is a Dream for Big-Game Hunters
Moose hunting is often described as the pinnacle of North American big-game hunting. Towering at over 6 feet at the shoulder and weighing up to 1,500 lbs, the moose is not only majestic—it’s one of the most challenging animals to track, call, and harvest.
Whether you’re booking guided Alaska moose hunts, planning a DIY moose hunting trip in Canada, or trying your luck in the dense forests of Maine, this guide walks you through everything you need to know: from gear to costs to legal access.
Where Can You Hunt Moose in North America?
✅ Moose Hunting Alaska
Alaska is the gold standard for moose hunters worldwide.
Species: Alaskan Yukon Moose (largest in the world)
Popular Units: Unit 17, 19, 21, 23
Best Time: September (rut)
Access: Fly-in hunts, boat access, float hunts
✅ Moose Hunting Canada
Provinces like Alberta, British Columbia, and Newfoundland offer world-class hunts.
Trophy-size moose with great tag availability
Options: DIY, semi-guided, fully guided trips
When: Mid-September to late October
✅ Maine Moose Hunting
One of the best moose hunts in the Lower 48.
Lottery-only permit system
Best zones: Zone 1 through 5 (northern Maine)
Season: September–October
✅ Other Legal States:
Michigan: Limited tribal or special draw hunts only
Montana, Idaho, Colorado: Excellent options via draw systems
Can You Hunt Moose?
Yes, you can—with the right permit and location. Moose hunting is legal in:
The U.S. (Alaska, Maine, Montana, etc.)
Canada (most provinces)
Parts of Scandinavia (not covered here)
You’ll need:
A hunting license
A moose tag or permit (draw, OTC, or guided allocation)
In some cases, a CITES permit for transporting trophies internationally
When Is Moose Hunting Season?
| Region | Season |
|---|---|
| Alaska | August 20 – September 25 (varies by unit) |
| Canada (Alberta, BC) | September – October |
| Maine | Late September – mid-October |
| Michigan | Very limited (tribal hunts or research tags) |
The rut period (late September) is the best time—bulls respond aggressively to calls.
Moose Hunt Prices in 2025
| Location | Price (USD) | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $18,000–$28,000 | Fully Guided |
| Canada (Alberta) | $9,000–$14,000 | Guided |
| Maine | $4,000–$7,500 | Lottery tag + Guide |
| DIY Alaska Float Hunt | $6,000–$9,000 | Self-guided (plus flights & logistics) |
Extras may include:
Trophy care and shipping
Meat processing
Charter flights to remote zones
Gratuities and taxes
How to Hunt Moose: Tips for Foothills and Forests
Moose are elusive, even at their size. Here’s how to boost your odds:
🦌 Calling During the Rut
Use cow calls to attract dominant bulls. Bulls may respond aggressively within 1–2 miles.
🥾 Spot-and-Stalk
Common in Alberta and British Columbia foothills. Requires optics, patience, and stamina.
🛶 Float Hunts
Popular in Alaska. Drift rivers in rafts, glassing riverbanks. Offers unique access to remote bulls.
🐾 Still Hunting in Timber
Effective in Maine or northern Michigan where visibility is limited. Hunt at dawn/dusk and move quietly.
How to Hunt Moose in Alberta’s Foothills
Hunting moose in Alberta’s foothills means:
Navigating rolling terrain, river valleys, and lodgepole pine forests
Using cow calls or raking to challenge dominant bulls
Relying on high-quality optics and GPS to glass across open patches
Many outfitters offer horseback moose hunts in Alberta, offering quiet travel and better access.
Guided vs. DIY Moose Hunting Trips
| Feature | DIY Hunt | Guided Hunt |
|---|---|---|
| Planning Required | ✅ High | ❌ Low |
| Success Rate | Medium | High |
| Logistics | You handle | All-inclusive |
| Budget | $$ | $$$$ |
| Recommended For | Experienced hunters | First-timers or trophy seekers |
In Alaska, non-residents MUST use a guide for moose in certain units.
FAQs About Moose Hunting
Q: When is moose hunting season in Alaska?
A: Most zones open from Aug 20 to Sept 25, aligning with the rut.
Q: Can you hunt moose in Michigan?
A: Only through limited tribal or research-based draw permits. It’s not open to general residents.
Q: How do I get a moose tag?
A: Depends on the state or province. Lottery systems (like Maine) or included with outfitter packages (Canada).
Q: What caliber for moose?
A: Minimum .30-06 or .300 Win Mag. Use bonded bullets with deep penetration.
Final Thoughts: Book Your Moose Hunting Trip with Confidence
Whether you’re planning a bucket-list Alaska moose hunt, navigating the lottery system in Maine, or exploring Canadian moose hunting adventures, this is one pursuit that defines North American big-game hunting.
✔️ Legal and ethical
✔️ Adventure-rich
✔️ Trophy of a lifetime
Moose hunting isn’t just a trip—it’s a legacy. And at Hunt Nation, we help you make it happen with expert planning, outfitter connections, and real-world advice.