Understanding Hunting Regulations in BC
Discover the stunning backcountry of British Columbia, a top destination for hunters due to its diverse landscapes teeming with wildlife. BC offers unparalleled hunting adventures for residents and visitors, from its dense forests to rugged mountains.
Whether pursuing large game like moose and deer or targeting smaller creatures like waterfowl, the BC promises rich hunting experiences right at our doorstep, especially in the scenic Okanagan.
At Wandering Bear Outfitters, we're committed to helping you navigate BC's hunting regulations so that you can enjoy a responsible and rewarding hunting season.
Get licensed.
British Columbia offers a variety of hunting license types, each designed to meet the unique needs and qualifications of different hunters. Hunters can purchase licenses online or at a local vendor - including Wandering Bear Outfitters!
License types:
Basic Hunting License
This license is required for all hunters and allows hunting during general open seasons.
Species-specific Licenses (Tags)
Required for hunting specific species like deer or bear during their respective open seasons.
Limited Entry Hunting (LEH)
LEH is a lottery-based system for certain species and areas, allowing controlled hunting to manage wildlife sustainably.
Special Area Hunting Licenses
Required for hunting in designated areas where additional management is necessary.
Hunting License Requirements
To obtain these licenses, hunters must first complete the CORE course before applying for a Fish & Wildlife ID (FWID), which is a passport to the province's hunting services.
You can start this process online through the BC Hunting online system after registering for a BCeID
BC hunting regulations require hunters to have their species tags on hand, but hunters do not need to carry their hunting licenses.
BC hunting seasons.
In British Columbia, hunting regulations are region-specific, with season dates and bag limits tailored to local wildlife populations and conservation needs.
This regional approach allows for more precise management of species and habitats. For example, deer hunting seasons vary significantly between regions based on factors such as deer population density and ecological conditions.
Hunters must comply with these region-specific rules, detailed in the Hunting and Trapping Regulations Synopsis, to ensure sustainable hunting practices across the province.
Open Hunting Seasons in the Okanagan (Region 8)
Mule Deer: Sept 10 - Nov 10
White-Tailed Deer: Sept 10 - Nov 30
Moose:Nov 1 - Nov 15
Elk: Sept 10 - Oct 20
Black Bear: Apr 1 - Jun 30
Wolf: April 1 - Jun 15, Sept 10 - Mar 31
Bobcat: Nov 15 - Feb 28
Lynx: Nov 15 - Feb 28
Cougar: Nov 15 - Mar 31
Wander in and stay awhile.
We want Wandering Bear Outfitters to be a place where people feel comfortable asking questions and sharing their enthusiasm for hunting.
Whether you have questions about the BC hunting regulations, are looking for hunting or fishing gear, or could use help learning to use a piece of equipment, we invite you to stop by the store for a chat!