Big game hunting season gets underway across much of the province today and the RCMP is offering a few reminders to hunters to make this fall’s hunt a safe one. VOCM’s Linda Swain has more.
The RCMP says it is against the law to hunt, take or kill any wildlife without a valid licence.
Hunters should ensure their firearms are safely stored in a vehicle while being transported, and firearms should be handled with care and attention at all times.
Know your surroundings and stay away from residential neighbourhoods and structures.
Never shoot unless you’re sure of your target and what lies beyond and make sure you’re visible to other hunters by wearing blaze orange.
A hunter wears blaze orange to stay visible and safe during the hunting season (Government of Newfoundland and Labrador).
The RCMP says it’s also important to tell others of your plans and when you’re expected to return, and carry a survival kit and small first aid kit with you at all times.
Finally, never drink or consume drugs while hunting.
Information, including dates for big game species in various areas, can be found here.
Check below for more information.
- Moose (island): September 13 – December 31, 2025 (except for national parks)
- Moose (Labrador): September 13, 2025 – March 8, 2026.
- Caribou (island): September 13, 2025 – December 7, 2025 (closing dates vary for Caribou Management Areas 70, 71, 72, 80). Note: Caribou hunting is prohibited in Labrador.
- Black bear (island): September 13, 2025 – November 30, 2025.
- Black bear (Labrador): August 10, 2025 – November 30, 2025.
- Coyotes and wolves: September 13, 2025 – July 15, 2026 (coyote, province-wide). Dates for wolf vary by region.
- Trapping Seasons and Zones: Dates vary by species and region.
- Small game (island): Dates vary by species and region.
- Small game (Labrador): Dates vary by species and region.
