The big game licence draw is now open for the 2026-27 season. Resident hunters have until May 1, 2026 to apply for moose and caribou licences. Eligible hunters must have a Wildlife Information Management System account to apply for a licence.
The total 2026-27 moose quota for the Island of Newfoundland is 28,705 licences, including 20,835 either-sex, 7,390 male-only, and 480 not-for-profit licences. This is an increase of 1,090 licences from 2025-26.
In Labrador, 348 either-sex moose licences are available for the resident big game draw.
The total 2026-27 caribou quota on the island is 614 animals, including 36 either-sex and 578 male-only. This is an increase of two licences and reflects a cautious harvesting approach that focuses on conserving female caribou.
To be considered eligible for the 2026-27 big game licence draw, you must:
- Be a resident of Newfoundland and Labrador.
- Be at least 16 years of age by August 31, 2026.
- Have a Hunter Certificate Number.
- Have already completed the Canadian Firearms Safety/Hunter Education Course or, for new residents, have transferred hunter education credentials byNovember 30, 2025.
Changes for 2026-27 season:
- To support our management of black bear populations, new restrictions starting in spring 2026 will prohibit licence holders from harvesting cubs under one year of age, or harvesting female bears accompanied by cubs under one year of age.
- Changes beginning in the spring of 2027 will limit hunters to two licences (four bears) per hunter for both the spring and/or fall period. This change supports conservation management while maintaining opportunities for hunters.
- There will be a review of all hunting, trapping and guiding licensing processes to make it easier to apply for licences.
- The ability to harvest Double-crested Cormorants under the authority of a shooting permit, available online in the Wildlife Information Management System beginning in the fall season.
More information is available in the 2026-27 Hunting and Trapping Guide.
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“I am pleased to see an increase in moose quotas this year, along with other changes that support wildlife conservation and management. Newfoundland and Labrador is one of the best places in the world to hunt and trap, and with good reason – we value our outdoor resources. Thank you to the province’s hunters and trappers for supporting sustainable wildlife management. Good luck in the draw!”
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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