The massive bull emerged from the willows, his paddles wider than any moose I’d seen in the lower 48. This was why we’d traveled to the Yukon – the land of giant moose. After nine days of glassing endless valleys, here stood a true monarch of the north.
Why Hunt Yukon Moose?
- Average bulls 20% larger than southern moose
- Potential for 60+ inch spreads
- Lower hunting pressure
- Pristine wilderness experience
- Higher success rates with guided hunts
Planning Your Hunt
Best Times
- Mid-September to early October
- Rut peaks around September 25
- Weather still manageable
Hunting Methods
- Spot and stalk
- Calling during rut
- River hunting
- High country glassing
Required Gear
- Rifle (.300 Win Mag minimum)
- Quality optics
- Extreme weather gear
- Satellite communication
- Proper boots and layers
Hunting Locations
Prime Areas
- Pelly Mountains
- Mayo Region
- MacMillan Pass
- Teslin River System
Access Methods
- Float planes
- Horseback
- River boats
- Backpack hunts
Working with Outfitters
What to Look For
- License allocation process
- Success rates
- Camp amenities
- Transportation methods
- Trophy quality history
Cost Expectations
- Guide fees: $18,000-25,000
- Tags and licenses
- Travel expenses
- Shipping meat/trophy
Field Tactics
Calling Strategies
- Bull grunts
- Cow calls
- Antler thrashing
- Timing and patience
Judging Bulls
- Main beam length
- Palm width
- Point count
- Overall mass
After the Shot
Meat Care
- Quick cooling
- Proper quartering
- Transportation
- Export requirements
Trophy Care
- Field prep
- Documentation
- Shipping arrangements
- Customs requirements
Legal Requirements
- Non-resident guide requirement
- Licenses and permits
- Firearm regulations
- Meat/trophy export
Resources
- Yukon hunting regulations
- Recommended outfitters
- Travel planning
- Gear lists
Updated for 2024 hunting season. Success rates and costs may vary.