Hunting In New Brunswick, Canada

Hunting in New Brunswick, Canada, offers a range of game for hunters to pursue. The province is known for its large black bear population, with success rates for non-residents averaging between 60 and 70 percent. Moose are also plentiful, with an estimated 30,000 in the province, and white-tailed deer are another popular target, with a population of around 85,000. Other species hunted in New Brunswick include waterfowl, upland game, and wild turkey. The province's diverse landscapes, from sprawling forests to secluded marshes and coastal woods, provide a memorable hunting experience.

Black bear hunting

Black bears are typically hunted over bait, and non-resident hunters have success rates between 60 and 70 percent. Bait sites are carefully monitored, and hunters can expect to see bears 95 to 100 percent of the time. The best time to hunt black bears in New Brunswick is during the spring and fall seasons. Spring baits are set up as soon as the winter thaw has occurred, while fall baits are started in mid-August.

There are several experienced outfitters in New Brunswick that offer black bear hunting trips. These outfitters provide access to active bait sites and ensure a high success rate for harvesting the black bear of your choice. They also offer comfortable accommodations and home-cooked meals. Some outfitters even provide additional activities such as fishing in nearby creeks, brooks, and rivers.

When planning a black bear hunting trip in New Brunswick, it is important to be aware of the regulations and licensing requirements. Non-residents must be accompanied by a licensed guide, and all hunters must obtain the necessary licenses and permits. Additionally, hunters should come prepared with the appropriate clothing, gear, and weapons for the hunt.

Moose hunting

The 2024 season dates are September 24 to September 28, and hunters can use either a rifle or archery. To qualify for a moose license, you must enter an automated draw by April 30, 2024. The cost of the license is not included in the price of booking a hunt, and it is important to note that nonresident moose hunters must use the services of a licensed guide. Hunts typically include transportation, skinning, field dressing, and cold storage of your trophy, with additional services like meat cutting and taxidermy available for a fee.

A typical moose hunt in New Brunswick lasts for five days and six nights, with hunters advised to arrive the day before the hunt to rest, try out their rifle, and become acquainted with the guide. Hunts can cost around $3800 to $6495 US Dollars per hunter, with a deposit required at the time of booking. The success rate for nonresident moose hunters is as high as 80 percent.

White-tailed deer hunting

The province's diverse landscape offers a range of habitats for white-tailed deer, from the rugged and mountainous northern region to the forested lowlands, swamps, lakes, and rivers in the eastern and central portions. The Miramichi Highlands, Chaleur Uplands, and Notre Dame Mountains provide remote and scenic backdrops for hunting expeditions.

Hunting methods for white-tailed deer typically involve the use of portable tree stands in prime feeding and travelling areas. Shooting distances can range from 50 to 200 yards. The success rate for hunting white-tailed deer in New Brunswick varies between 30% and 50%, with average scores ranging from 125 to 140. It is not uncommon to shoot a 170-class buck, which can field dress between 180 and 250 pounds.

New Brunswick's natural beauty and abundant wildlife make it a popular destination for hunters seeking a memorable experience. The province offers a range of certified professional guides, outfitters, and lodges to cater to hunters' needs and ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Waterfowl hunting

New Brunswick has a generous bag limit for Woodcock, one of the most generous in North America. The province's wetlands are also preserved to encourage more waterfowl, so hunters can expect a plentiful harvest. Hunters can pursue various waterfowl species, including black ducks, mallards, and Canada geese.

When hunting black ducks in New Brunswick, attention to detail is critical. Calling, decoy spreads, camouflage, and location must all be carefully planned and executed. Hunters who are meticulous in their preparations are more likely to be successful, as the birds are cautious and prefer privacy. Darren Hasson, a waterfowl outfitter in New Brunswick, recommends using a small number of decoys, such as eight to twelve, along with a pair of Canada goose decoys, to attract black ducks. This strategy takes advantage of the fact that black ducks often feed among geese and feel safer in their presence.

Hunting in New Brunswick requires non-residents to be accompanied by a certified professional guide. Hunters must also possess the necessary permits and licenses, such as a Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit and a Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp, which can be obtained through the federal government. It is important to review the hunting regulations and restrictions for the specific province or territory before planning a hunting trip.

Upland game hunting

For those interested in upland game hunting, New Brunswick offers a range of bird species to pursue, including grouse and woodcock. The province boasts one of the most generous bag limits for woodcock in North America, making it an attractive destination for hunters looking to test their skills. In addition, the preservation of wetlands in the region has promoted increased populations of waterfowl, so hunters can expect a fruitful experience.

When it comes to hunting methods, New Brunswick caters to a variety of preferences. Whether hunters prefer using firearms, bows, or crossbows, they will find healthy game populations of various species to pursue. The province is also known for its thriving populations of black bears and moose, with high success rates for hunters.

It is important to note that non-residents hunting in New Brunswick must be accompanied by a certified professional guide, regardless of the type of game they are pursuing. The province has a well-developed network of guides, outfitters, and lodges that are experienced in hosting hunters from around the world. Hunters should also familiarise themselves with the relevant hunting regulations and licensing requirements before embarking on their trip.

Frequently asked questions