Newfoundland
Outfitters we deal with in Newfoundland:
Thinking of Canada instantly conjures up mental images of pine forests and hunters in red-checked shirts off in search of Moose, but Newfoundland was an unknown quantity to us and so when the opportunity came to visit one of North America’s finest wilderness areas, we jumped at the chance.
Newfoundland became an early English Colony in 1583 and converged with the region of Labrador in 1949 as it became the tenth Province of Canada and it’s wild weather and remote location which is very reminiscent of the Highlands and Heather Moors of Scotland, have been contributing factors in the preservation of such large wilderness areas over which hunting is permitted on a strictly managed basis. The Department of Environment and Conservation is responsible for the protection and enhancement of the environment, management of the province’s wildlife, inland fish, water, parks, and Crown land resources. The Department is also leading Government’s response to climate change and the Sustainable Development initiatives. Newfoundland and Labrador’s wildlife resources are at the heart the province’s heritage and culture. The vast landscape is diverse, and so are the wildlife species that inhabit it. From the largest big game animals to the tiniest insects and rare flowers, the Department of Environment and Conservation’s Wildlife Division is responsible for managing and conserving Newfoundland and Labrador’s biodiversity and wildlife resources for the benefit of present and future generations and it does so in harmony with the strong and proud heritage and tradition of hunting!
Seasons are strictly monitored and controlled with separate seasons for Bow and Rifle Hunters. For the international visitor, Newfoundland offers the unique opportunity to hunt Woodland Caribou which can only be taken here. Reductions in permits have pushed the price of Caribou up in recent years with just 740 licenses issued for 2010/11 season – a fraction of what was available 10 years ago, although the good news is that unofficially Caribou numbers are on the increase and permits may be increased shortly as a result of responsible management. Newfoundland also boasts some of the biggest examples of Black Bear anywhere in the world and two-bear permits are available as are Moose permits. In addition to Big Game, visitors can try for Coyote and Fox or try their hand at fishing, especially since the majority of the very best Salmon Fishing in Canada is to be found right here in Newfie!
Hunting can be conducted from any number of hunting camps, some can be reached by vehicle or quad-bike / 4-wheeler while others are only accessible via Helicopter. For many the helicopter ride adds a different dimension to their experience, after all, it’s very exciting and exotic to be ‘choppered into camp, but it does add to the cost so please bear that in mind.
Bear Hunting is conducted either in Spring or Fall when the best success comes from baiting them. Certainly, we have had clients that wanted to walk and stalk for bear but this isn’t a viable or practical option and as such has a very limited chance for success.
Visiting Newfoundland with firearms is easy and they welcome visitors who come hunting and the form is easy to complete and can be downloaded online but please note that you will be charged an import fee of approx $30 / rifle on arrival. Furthermore, be prepared to be charged for excess baggage charges for your rifle by Air Canada on your departure, the fee in Newfoundland was $50 for our ammunition case, $225 for one rifle and a further $50 administration charge, so if you get the chance, fly with someone else!