Archery season is well underway, but as always, rifle enthusiasts will wait for their turn in November to get to hunting.
Millet Fish and Game representative Dan Moiser says archery season runs September and October and November is rifle season. “That's for big game animals.”
Mosier also mentioned, regarding big game rifle season, there are a few limited opportunities that allow special seasons to extend through December and January.
However, birds are fair game anytime during hunting season, even with firearms, as the two groups of animals are regulated by different entities; big game is provincially controlled. “Birds are controlled by the federal (government),” said Moiser.
For the 2015 season some upland birds such as grouse and pheasants have had hunting opportunities extended to January, where they would normally end in December. “They feel the numbers are high enough they could use more harvest,” said Moiser.
He explains hunter numbers for the birds are also down, leaving more opportunity for those who remain.
However, in the last five to 10 years numbers in the sport overall continue to climb, says Moiser.
Last year's mild winter has also left game numbers in good shape. “It really helped out or populations. Especially the deer populations,” said Moiser.
As it stands, the top two hunted animals in Alberta are whitetail deer and elk. “It's the most abundant of any animals in Alberta, and they give out the most licenses for it,” said Moiser.
Moose populations are also on the rise and Moiser says opportunities to hunk moose and elk are climbing.
“If anyone sees anyone breaking the law they should report all illegal activities to the “Report A Poacher” hotline at 1-800-642-3800,” said Moiser.