Antlerless elk general open season in MU 7-49 and 7-58
Last updated on January 12, 2026The public is invited to comment on the proposed hunting regulation described below.
Status: Proposed
Region: Region 7B, Peace
Management unit (MU): 7-49 and 7-58
Regulation type: Hunting
Species: Elk
Closing date: February 13, 2026 at 4:30 pm PT
Current regulation:
Hunting and Trapping Regulations Synopsis (PDF, 13MB) page 62:
There is currently no general open season for antlerless elk in MU 7-49 (vicinity of Fort Nelson).
The antlerless elk general open season in MU 7-58 is September 15 to October 31.
Proposed regulation:
Implement a September 15 to October 15 general open season for antlerless elk in MU 7-49.
Shorten the antlerless elk general open season in MU 7-58 to September 15 to October 15.
|
Species |
MU |
Class of animal |
Season dates |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Elk |
*7-20, *7-21, 7-32 to 7-35, ***7-43, 7-44, 7-45, *7-46, 7-49, 7-58 |
Antlerless |
September 15 to October 15 |
* Restricted to shaded portions of MUs 7-20, 7-21, and 7-46, see Map H11.
*** Restricted to eastern portion of MU 7-43, consult Map H23
Rationale:
Local knowledge suggests that the elk population in Wildlife MU (WMU) 7-49 appears to be increasing, with increased sightings on farmlands and ranches. Recent fires are likely to benefit elk and there is a recognition that they are likely to increase in population and range in this area. Several property owners near Fort Nelson are dealing with significant depredation issues and would like to support by way of a licensed season.
When snow accumulations in the fields restrict access elk begin targeting bales in storage areas and competing with livestock during feeding, creating situations where cattle are being impacted by aggressive elk behaviour. The proposed opening in 7-49 would align with other antlerless elk seasons in the Peace Region where crop depredation and competition with cattle occur.
The change to shorten the WMU 7-58 season is to rectify an administrative error from a previous regulation cycle. There is no biological rationale for having a longer antlerless elk general open season in MU 7-58. This would bring the antlerless season dates in line with the rest of the region.