If you’re a seasoned big game hunter like Jack, always in pursuit of your next unforgettable experience, Newfoundland offers two of the most iconic hunts in North America: Eastern Canadian Moose and Woodland Caribou. Each delivers a unique challenge, stunning landscapes, and the opportunity to harvest a species few hunters will ever pursue.
So, how do you choose between them? Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which is the right hunt for your goals, experience, and style.
The Trophy Factor
Moose: The Majestic Giant
Eastern Canadian Moose are the largest big game species in Newfoundland, often weighing over 1,200 pounds. Their broad antlers, sometimes spanning up to 50 inches (few even reach 60 inches), are a prized trophy for any North American hunter.
If you’re looking to check off a bucket-list bull from your Super Slam, moose are an essential piece. With our moose hunting packages, you’ll be hunting in carefully managed zones like Eastern Central and Southwestern Coast, where moose populations are strong and trophy bulls are frequently harvested.
Woodland Caribou: The Rare Opportunity
Woodland Caribou offer something even more exclusive: this is the only place in the world where you can legally hunt them. Their dense, palmated antlers and rich coats make for an exotic and eye-catching mount.
Success rates have been 100% for 2 decades with our caribou hunts, and with population densities some of the highest in the province, this hunt is a high-reward option for those seeking rare trophies. Deep County Lodge is known to have the largest Woodland Caribou herd in the middle ridge with the best genetics on Newfoundland Island.
Terrain and Adventure Style
Moose: Rugged and Demanding
Moose hunts are typically more physical. Expect a mix of calling, stalking, and still hunting through thick timber and wet lowlands. The effort is intense, but the payoff is immense—especially when a mature bull steps into a clearing.
If you crave a more traditional, boots-on-the-ground big game challenge, our moose terrain will test your skills and your endurance. Our guides are veterans at calling moose during the rut, drawing them in for unforgettable encounters.
Caribou: Open Country Pursuit
In contrast, Woodland Caribou hunting often takes place in open barrens and rolling ridges, making glassing and long-range shooting more prominent. The pace is a bit more relaxed, but don’t underestimate the challenge of a mature bull on the move.
This style suits those who enjoy panoramic landscapes, spotting game from a distance, and making calculated stalks. It’s an excellent hunt for anyone who enjoys a balance between effort and ease, and still wants a high probability of success.
Season and Scheduling
Moose Season
Our moose hunts typically run from mid-September through early November. This window includes the rut, when bulls are most vocal and active—perfect for calling strategies.
Early season hunts are excellent for weather and comfort. Later season hunts may bring snow and colder temperatures but often concentrate animals into tighter areas.
Caribou Season
Woodland Caribou hunts are offered in a more limited season due to their special status. Our prime hunting runs from mid September through early November.
Because of the scarcity of tags and tightly managed quotas, booking early is critical. These hunts sell out fast, and once you’ve harvested your caribou, that chapter of your hunting legacy is closed—you’ve taken one of the rarest trophies in North America.
Gear and Firearms
Moose
Given the size of the game, you’ll need a caliber capable of deep penetration and high stopping power—most of our moose hunters opt for rifles chambered in .308, .270, .300 Win Mag, .338, .30-06, or a Bow. Our guides will help ensure ethical shot placement, especially in thicker brush.
Caribou
For caribou, a slightly lighter rifle such as a .308, .300 Win Mag, .338, .30-06, .270 or 7mm Rem Mag is often ideal, especially with longer-range shooting involved. Hunters who want to test their skills with a bow or muzzleloader will find our terrain accommodating.
Which Is Right for You?
If your goals are centered around:
- Size and challenge
- Classic North American game
- Testing your physical and hunting abilities
Then moose hunting is your answer.
But if you’re driven by:
- Exclusivity and rarity
- Completing a Super Slam
- Hunting in open, scenic terrain with high success rates
Then you won’t want to miss your chance at Woodland Caribou.
Why Not Both?
Many of our clients return for a combo hunt (add Eastern Canadian Moose ,Woodland Caribou and Blackbear and get all 3 The Newfoundland Slam!), allowing them to pursue both species during a single trip. It’s the ultimate Newfoundland hunting experience—two tags, two trophies, one unforgettable adventure. With Deep Country Lodge’s seasoned guides, remote access areas, and world-class accommodations, your hunt is more than just a trip—it’s a legacy.
Ready to Make the Call?
Whether you’re after the thundering grunt of a rutting bull moose or the ghost-like appearance of a Woodland Caribou bull on a ridge, Newfoundland delivers. And with our help, you’ll walk away with not just meat and antlers—but the kind of story you’ll be telling around the fire for years to come.
Reach out now to plan your custom hunt. The wilderness is waiting.