Big game season opens in most areas of Newfoundland and Labrador tomorrow (Saturday, September 12).
- Moose (island): September 12 – December 31, 2026 (except for national parks)
- Gros Morne National Park: September 26, 2026 – January 31, 2027
- Terra Nova National Park: October 13, 2026 – January 31, 2027
- Moose (Labrador): September 12, 2026 – March 14, 2027
- Caribou (island): September 12 – December 6, 2026 (dates vary for Caribou Management Areas 70, 71, 72). Note: Caribou hunting is prohibited in Labrador
- Black bear (island): September 12 – November 30, 2026
- Black bear (Labrador): August 10 – November 30, 2026
- Coyotes and wolves: September 12, 2026 – July 15, 2027 (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
Hunters and trappers must observe firearm regulations and safe practices. Wildlife regulations, hunting season dates, bag limits, safety tips and more are available in the 2026-27 Hunting and Trapping Guide.
Information gathered from hunters and trappers is critical to establishing harvest rates for big game species. Hunters and trappers are encouraged to submit hunter return forms to the Wildlife Division and participate in specimen collection programs for moose, caribou, black bears or coyotes/wolves.
New hunters wishing to become eligible for the 2027-28 Big Game Licence Draw must complete the Canadian Firearms Safety/Hunter Education Course before November 30, 2026.
Resource Enforcement Officers will carry out dedicated hunting and trapping patrols throughout the season. It is the responsibility of hunters and trappers to be aware of hunting and trapping regulations.
The public plays a vital role in protecting our natural resources. If you observe potentially illegal activity, please report it by calling 1-877-820-0999 anonymously or submitting information online at stoppoaching.ca.
Hunters and trappers are reminded that Forest Fire season is in effect until September 30. In accordance with provincial Forest Fire Regulations, anyone travelling through forest land on an all-terrain or motorized vehicle during the Forest Fire Season is required to have the vehicle fitted with a muffler and a screening or baffling device to prevent sparks or particles of burnt carbon from escaping. Operators are required to be equipped with a fire extinguisher containing a minimum of 225 grams of ABC-class fire retardant.
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“With the start of a new hunting and trapping season, I ask everyone who plans to spend time in our great outdoors to stay safe. Hunters are reminded that loaded firearms are not permitted in or on vehicles. Remember that it is unlawful to discharge a firearm from or across a road, within 1,000 metres of a school, playground or athletic field, or within 300 metres of a dwelling. I wish you a safe and successful hunting season.”
Honourable Pleaman Forsey
Minister of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands
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Learn more
2026-27 Hunting and Trapping Guide
Wildlife Information Management System
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