Elk is flourishing in Alberta. They are not considered endangered or threatened.

Therefore, it is perfectly legal to hunt for elk during Elk season, and in the allowable regions in Alberta.

So when and where can you hunt for elk in Alberta?

When Can You Hunt Elk in Alberta?

Elk hunting season typically begins at the end of August or beginning of September. It ends around the end of January.

The exact dates depend on the WMU hunting zone, and the type of elk being hunted. For example: Antlered elk or Antlerless elk.

There are also date differenced based on method of hunting. Bow Hunting or General.

Everything below is taken from the Alberta Guide to Hunting Regulations.

How to read these regional hunting season schedules:

• Find the species (In this case, Elk)
• Determine antler type
• Determine your hunting style. Bow or General.
• Find the WMU (Wildlife Management Unit) you want to hunt in.
• Discover the dates you can hunt. The months are listed as the first letter of the month. For example: J1 would be January 1st, 2021. It will specify if it is 2022.

When Can You Hunt Elk in the Prairie WMU Region of Alberta?

Alberta Elk Hunting in the Prairie WMU Region ranges from September 1st, 2021 to January 30th, 2022. Depending on the zone and hunting style.

When Can You Hunt Elk in the Parkland WMU Region of Alberta?

Alberta Elk hunting in the Parkland WMU Region ranges from September 1st, 2021 to January 20th, 2022. Depending on the zone and hunting style.

Alberta Elk hunting in the Foothills WMU Region ranges from August 25th, 2021 to November 30th,2021. Depending on the zone and hunting style.

Alberta Elk hunting in the Mountain WMU Region ranges from August 25th, 2021 to January 20th, 2022. Depending on the zone and hunting style.

Alberta Elk hunting in the Boreal WMU Region ranges from August 25th, 2021 to November 30th, 2022. Depending on the zone and hunting style.

Where Can I Hunt in Alberta?

You can can hunt in approved WMUs (Wildlife Management Units) in Alberta, during approved hunting seasons, with proper licenses and permits.

Refer to this Alberta WMU map for the above charts.

In Summary

You can generally hunt Elk in Alberta starting in Fall, and over the winter and into the New Year.

The exact dates will depend on the WMU you are hunting in and your method of hunting. Use the WMU map and schedule above to determine exactly when and where to hunt for elk in your region.

Also be aware of other rules and regulations in the various WMUs. For example, see our other post about hunting on a Sunday in Alberta.