Kamloops as a Premier Hunting Destination
Kamloops stands out as a major destination for hunting in British Columbia. With grasslands, forests, wetlands, and rocky outcrops, it supports a wide range of game species that attract hunters from across Canada. The area's extensive public land access and well-organized wildlife management make it a consistent location for those who hunt big game, small game, or upland birds.
The city sits within Region 3, known as the Thompson region in British Columbia's hunting management zones. This region offers a clear framework of regulations, seasons, and species-specific opportunities, giving hunters the ability to target specific animals based on clear schedules. Kamloops also benefits from nearby amenities, making it easier to plan longer trips without extensive travel away from supply points.
Big Game Species in Kamloops
Mule Deer
Mule deer are one of the most common big game species targeted around Kamloops. They prefer open forests, brushy hillsides, and grassland slopes, habitats that are widespread throughout the management units surrounding the city. Mule deer are especially active during the fall rut, giving hunters opportunities to find larger bucks.
Hunting seasons for mule deer typically run from September to November, with some management units specifying antler point restrictions. Hunters need a mule deer species licence alongside their basic hunting licence. Familiarity with antler restrictions is important, as many areas have rules based on minimum points to maintain healthy populations.
White-tailed Deer
White-tailed deer are found at lower elevations, along rivers, and close to farmland. Their preference for riparian zones and agricultural lands means they are often spotted around valley floors and along smaller waterways.
Hunting seasons for white-tailed deer usually overlap with mule deer but can include either-sex seasons in some management units. A specific white-tailed deer licence is required. Knowing the difference between mule and white-tailed deer is necessary when both seasons run concurrently.
Moose
Moose populations are concentrated in the wetlands and forested areas north of Kamloops, such as the Bonaparte Plateau. They are often located near lakes, marshes, and boggy forests where they feed on aquatic vegetation.
Most moose hunting around Kamloops is controlled through Limited Entry Hunting (LEH) draws. Hunters need to apply well in advance to secure a tag. Moose hunts often specify antler characteristics like tri-palm or ten-point minimums. A successful draw requires obtaining a moose species licence in addition to the basic licence.
Black Bear
Black bears are widespread around Kamloops, especially along forest edges, berry patches, and logging roads. Their high adaptability allows them to thrive in different elevations and ecosystems.
Both spring and fall hunting seasons are offered, depending on the management unit. Bears must not be harvested if they are accompanied by cubs. Hunters need a black bear species licence and are encouraged to prepare properly for meat and hide handling due to the warm conditions during early season hunts.
Cougar
Cougars occupy the more forested and rugged terrains around Kamloops, following prey species like deer. They require a strategic approach, often involving dogs and experienced guides.
Cougar hunting season typically opens in the late fall and continues through the winter months. Bag limits and mandatory reporting requirements apply. A cougar species licence is required in addition to the basic hunting licence.
California Bighorn Sheep
California bighorn sheep inhabit the dry grasslands and rocky canyons of the Thompson River Valley. These herds are carefully managed due to their sensitivity to habitat disturbances and disease transmission from domestic livestock.
Access to hunt bighorn sheep is strictly through LEH draws. Quotas are limited to maintain population sustainability. Hunters successful in the draw need a mountain sheep species licence and must adhere closely to regulations concerning age and horn curl measurement.
Small Game and Upland Birds
Upland Game Birds
Kamloops offers a range of upland game bird hunting, including ruffed grouse, blue grouse, spruce grouse, chukar partridge, ring-necked pheasant, and wild turkey. These birds occupy a range of habitats, from mixed forests to sagebrush flats and farmlands.
Seasons for upland birds typically start in September and run into December. Regulations vary by species, with specific daily bag limits and possession limits. No additional species licence is required for resident hunters, although non-residents must purchase an upland bird licence.
Migratory Game Birds
Migratory bird hunting near Kamloops focuses on wetlands, lakes, and river systems where ducks and geese feed and rest during migration. Mallards, pintails, Canada geese, and snow geese are among the common species.
Migratory game bird hunting follows federal regulations, requiring a Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit and a Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp. Seasons and bag limits vary annually, with requirements to use non-toxic shot.
Predators and Furbearers
Coyotes
Coyotes are common across grasslands, agricultural lands, and forest edges. Their presence around Kamloops is consistent, making them a target for hunters interested in predator management.
There is no closed season for coyotes in most of Region 3. No species licence is needed beyond the basic hunting licence. Coyote hunting helps manage pressure on deer and livestock populations.
Wolves
Wolves are less numerous but found in remote forested areas. Packs follow prey herds and require careful scouting to locate.
Open seasons for wolves span most of the year. A wolf tag is required in addition to the basic licence. Managing wolf numbers is part of larger moose and deer conservation strategies.
Other Furbearers
Other furbearers available for hunting include bobcats, lynx, red foxes, and raccoons. Seasons for these species are shorter and often overlap with trapping seasons.
Harvesting furbearers sometimes requires a trapping licence if taken outside of standard hunting methods. Checking specific unit regulations is necessary.
Special Considerations for Hunting in Kamloops
Indigenous Hunting Rights
The Secwepemc Nation and other Indigenous communities in the Kamloops region maintain constitutionally protected hunting rights. Respect for these rights and knowledge of shared land-use agreements is important when planning hunts.
Private Land and Access
Much of the accessible land near Kamloops is private, owned by individuals or forestry companies like Tolko Industries. Hunters must secure permission before accessing these lands. Some timber companies offer access permits or maintain formal permission processes.
Wildlife Management and Conservation Efforts
Local organizations like the BC Wildlife Federation and Kamloops Fish and Game Club work to protect hunting opportunities and wildlife health through habitat restoration and conservation programs. Hunters contribute to these efforts through licence fees and species tag purchases, which fund on-the-ground conservation work.
Following hunting regulations, participating in conservation projects, and respecting wildlife and landowners ensures a sustainable future for hunting in Kamloops.
Planning a Successful Kamloops Hunting Experience
Kamloops provides hunters with opportunities across big game, small game, and birds. Each species comes with its own seasons, regulations, and techniques, requiring preparation and attention to detail.
Understanding licensing requirements, regional regulations, access considerations, and local conservation efforts helps build a hunting trip that meets both personal goals and long-term sustainability. Kamloops remains a stronghold for Canadian hunting traditions and responsible outdoor recreation.
