Moose Hunting Season Opens in Manitoba: Safety and Regulations Emphasized

The moose hunting season in Manitoba opens on December 1, 2023, prompting the provincial government to remind hunters of the importance of safety and adherence to regulations. Manitoba Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures announced that Conservation Officers will monitor hunting activities across designated game hunting areas (GHAs) to ensure compliance among licensed hunters and those exercising Indigenous harvesting rights.

Hunters are urged to carry valid licenses and identification at all times. Essential safety measures include wearing hunter orange, identifying targets accurately, and ensuring a clear line of sight before shooting. The province emphasizes the need to respect private and restricted lands, advising hunters to avoid trespassing in these areas. Additionally, residents are encouraged to report illegal hunting or instances of game wastage by contacting the Turn in Poachers line at 1-800-782-0076.

Chronic Wasting Disease Awareness

As the hunting season approaches, officials are raising awareness about chronic wasting disease (CWD), which affects certain regions of the province. Hunters in areas where CWD is present are advised to have their harvested animals tested. Proper handling of carcasses is crucial, and hunters should refrain from consuming meat from animals that have tested positive for the disease or have not been tested at all. The province has made a CWD dashboard available, which provides testing locations and updates, accessible at www.manitoba.ca/cwd.

The government underscores that all hunters share a collective responsibility for practicing safe, ethical, and legal hunting methods as the season begins. Detailed information regarding hunting seasons, bag limits, regulations, and specific GHAs can be found in the Manitoba Hunting Guide. This initiative aims to promote not only the enjoyment of the hunting experience but also the sustainability of wildlife and adherence to conservation practices.