2013 Hunting Forecast

[HunterDave]

A pretty interesting article worthy of sharing IMO.

Alberta

Deer: The provincial white-tailed deer population has increased over the last two years since the winter of 2010–11, when there was significant winterkill in some areas. Whitetail hunting remains very good throughout the province except for the very northern WMUs and mountain areas, where deer densities are low. The northern central parkland WMUs and the forest fringe WMUs of north-central Alberta continue to provide lots of opportunities for quality white-tailed deer hunting. The overall population is approximately 235,000 animals. The best opportunity for trophy mule deer continues to be in the prairie WMUs (100s series). Despite high winterkill during the winter of 2010–11, very good trophy hunting opportunities still exist. The number of special licences available for 2013 has increased from the previous two years, as the mule deer population has continued to increase.

Moose: The best opportunity for trophy moose is in the northern secluded WMUs, particularly areas with limited or difficult access. The population is roughly 120,000 animals. ELK: The best opportunity for a trophy bull is by obtaining one of the very few limited special licences (resident only) for the prairie WMUs. Elk seasons in 16 additional WMUs were opened for the 2013 hunting season. These new areas also require a special licence—obtained through the draw—to hunt during the rifle season but are open with a general licence during the archery season. An antlerless elk hunting season has been created for WMU 732.

Bear: Quality black bear hunting exists throughout northern Alberta, with hunters taking some very large bears, including a high percentage of colour-phase animals, each year. For those interested in a spot-and-stalk hunt, consider the foothills and mountains along the western edge of the province.

Upland birds: A late spring, and heavy rain and hail over parts of southern and central Alberta have reduced overall productivity of nesting upland birds. Populations have remained locally abundant where nesting attempts were successful and spring conditions weren’t excessively wet.

Waterfowl: Although Arctic goose numbers are high, gosling production in 2013 was generally low due to a late spring in the north. Migrations of largely adult birds will result in tough-to-decoy flocks. Local production of Canada geese (large-bodied) was good and Alberta duck production was well above average. Duck hunting opportunities should again be excellent throughout the province.

http://outdoorcanada.ca/31785/uncate...nting-forecast