Alberta Elk Outfitters Directory

Elk Hunts in Alberta

Alberta has a growing population of elk that numbers in the neighborhood of 26,000 animals. They are found predominately along the eastern shadow of the Rocky Mountains in the high basins and foothills, although, in recent years, they have been expanding their range into the boreal forest and parkland regions.

Non-residents are only permitted to shoot six-point or better bulls in most zones and this management regime allow the majority of bulls to reach maturity, resulting in a higher than average number of trophy bulls.

Alberta’s elk mature quickly and it is not uncommon for three-year-old bulls to sport 6x6 racks.

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.

Many of the rifle seasons open in mid-September and stretch until the end of November, and a couple of zones extend through into February.

 During the early hunts, when the elk are in rut, the favored method of hunting is bugling and cow calling. The rut often lasts into mid-October.

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.

No matter where you hunt you are hunting during prime times, like early morning and late afternoon.

As with all hunting in Alberta, you need to bring plenty of clothing. Winter often comes early to the high country and warm boots and heavy underwear are often not out of place in early September. Late-season hunts, especially those in the mountains, can be extremely cold and good felt-pack boots and warm, layered clothing is a must. Camouflage is a good idea, especially during the rut, stick with patterns that have a good blend of green and brown and don’t forget to bring something to hide your hands and face.

The non-typical world record was shattered in 1999 and Clarence Brown’s 1977, 419 5/8-inch bull still stands at number one for a typical elk in Alberta.