Looking for a little advice/info on solo moose hunting in 7-28, 7-40 and 7-41

[KBC]

Hey, I'm not asking for honey holes but....

OK just kidding. I'm trying to pick my LEH draws this year and am looking at my first choice of probably the bull draw for 7-28 Sep. 10 to Nov. 5th and putting my second choice as either 7-40 or 7-41 Oct. 10- Nov. 5.

Do you think a solo moose hunt in these areas is a bad idea? So far my hunting experience doesn't involve killing anything other than grouse. Moose hunting is something I haven't really had any experience doing.

What is the access like in these areas? Any difference between 7-40 and 7-41?

I will be camping pretty basic, sleeping under the truck canopy and can hike or bring an ATV.

Are there any areas in those units to avoid?

Any moose hunting resources out there similar to Elk101.com? Last season I came pretty close to elk after studying that site a fair amount.

I'd just like to be a little prepared in case I'm fortunate enough to get a tag. I do not want to waste it and realize after that getting into some of these areas is too tough.

Cheers!

[Rackmastr]

7-40 and 7-41 is remote country. Not the type of hunt I'd do solo and I've done a ton of backcountry hunting and have hunted that country. I wouldn't do that trip solo, even knowing what I know and having done a ton of trips and spending a ton of time up there.

For someone who hasn't shot anything more than a grouse, this is simply not a hunt you should attempt solo.

It's a long ways in, requires planning for fuel, tires, breakdowns, etc. Dealing with your first moose kill that far back without help becomes more challenging. Then theres Fort Ware and Tse Khey to deal with at times.

It's a pretty simple "no" from me if looking for opinions

[Salix]

I agree with Rackmastr. 7-28 is a big area as well. Lots of moose LEH there but it’s a big MU. Access through PG, Mackenzie and Fort St James so gets lots of hunters.
Depending on where you are coming from I’d recommend 7-29 or 7-30, which are near Williston but more accessible for a first moose hunt.
I also recommend if you do get a moose draw you find a friend to join you. Moose solo is a challenge for experienced hunters. I speak from experience on that. Big animal to manage on your own.

[two-feet]

If you are asking it means you should not do it: that is as deep off of pavement as you can get, a big moose can be a dificult task for 3 fit guys

[KBC]

7-40 and 7-41 is remote country. Not the type of hunt I'd do solo and I've done a ton of backcountry hunting and have hunted that country. I wouldn't do that trip solo, even knowing what I know and having done a ton of trips and spending a ton of time up there.

For someone who hasn't shot anything more than a grouse, this is simply not a hunt you should attempt solo.

It's a long ways in, requires planning for fuel, tires, breakdowns, etc. Dealing with your first moose kill that far back without help becomes more challenging. Then theres Fort Ware and Tse Khey to deal with at times.

It's a pretty simple "no" from me if looking for opinions

Thanks, I appreciate the honesty. Although I'm not concerned with the fuel, tires and breakdown issues. Or dealing with my first big game kill, the experience of someone who's been there a bit saying they wouldn't go solo is good info though.


I agree with Rackmastr. 7-28 is a big area as well. Lots of moose LEH there but it’s a big MU. Access through PG, Mackenzie and Fort St James so gets lots of hunters.
Depending on where you are coming from I’d recommend 7-29 or 7-30, which are near Williston but more accessible for a first moose hunt.
I also recommend if you do get a moose draw you find a friend to join you. Moose solo is a challenge for experienced hunters. I speak from experience on that. Big animal to manage on your own.

Maybe as a solo hunter it isn't as bad there are others around? Looks like the odds are slightly worse for 7-29 and 7-30. I just want a decent spot north of PG. Close to Williston lake doesn't matter, what got me looking there was the odds.

As far as finding a friend, I'm not interested. I looked pretty hard for a hunting partner for the first few years but after my last experience with someone else, I'm not interested. I will do the heavy lifting on my own.


If you are asking it means you should not do it: that is as deep off of pavement as you can get, a big moose can be a dificult task for 3 fit guys

I don't think because I asked that means no. I'm typically pretty prepared and pretty comfortable in the outdoors. If I just wanted to go camping in the same area I probably wouldn't be asking. The big moose and 3 dudes comment is helpful though.

Cheers!

[dakoda62]

Its doable although you had better be in tip top shape, as they seldom die on the road. Daunting task over hills, over grown clear cuts. Find some one to go with you even if they don't hunt.

[decker9]

The only area I’m familiar with that you mention is the 7-41. In all honesty, that’s the last place I’d go to look for a moose, by road, especially solo. We never had bad luck with the people up there, but there’s lots of stories of people who have. I think the local bands keep the moose pretty licked up for the most part, we seen lots of native hunters, but not a single moose, or grouse for that matter.

Im all for solo hunting and do a lot of it, no matter the animal. But I think there are better safer spots then 7-41.

[srthomas75]

if you have only had luck with a grouse so far, then I don't think I would be attemting a moose solo. I would start with a deer. you mentioned not wasting your time but I seee it as wasting of the animal/ resource if you are foretunate to get the kill and don't harvest everything from it.

[butcher]

If you are going way the hell up there for a draw why not head to a GOS area? I would be willing to share a hike in spot that I know of. It gets some pressure but if you’re willing to go the extra couple miles you will have opportunity. I will warn you that killing a moose there as a solo hunter will be the hardest thing you’ve ever done.

[Wild one]

Not experienced in the MU’s you’re asking about so no help there

As for a solo moose hunt you have to really ask yourself how bad do you want it?

Sounds like you are on the green side so something to keep in mind is this can be both a physical and mentally demanding hunt. If a moose drops any distance from the road it’s not coming out in one piece so you will need to break down a large animal that is not easily manipulated by yourself. Now if the moose drops in a nasty spot like a swamp or trench it’s awesome lol. It can take time and physically beat 2 guys packing out a moose so expect to hate yourself if you put it down in a nasty spot

Want to know what you are in for load up your pack with say 60-80lbs which is not much when packing out a moose. Then go find some thick bush, clear cut, and willow swamp and go for a hike. Likely a moose will drop in a similar kind of area. It will suck but you will have an idea what you are getting into

I don’t know what experience you have stay in the bush solo. Some can’t do it between boredom and nerves get to them. Some are too nervous about bears when it comes to multiple trip meat pack outs solo. You know your mindset not me. If you have never camped out solo for multiple days I recommend you do it locally before going on a hunt like this

I have personally done lots of things I have been told I would be crazy to do so solo even lacking experience so I won’t judge if you should or should not do this hunt. I will say be prepared for what you are getting into and be honest with your personal limits

Or you can just say F it giver hell and see how it turns out and likely end up in a nasty spot like I have in the past lol

Good luck

[moosinaround]

7-28, or 7-41, lots of road access there. You are allowed to use ATV's in those MU's too. An ATV will be a saving grace if you are going solo. Have a really good pack, and learn to bone the moose out. This will save literally and figuratively a ton of weight!! I'd do it during the rut, and you will have cooler temps, so the meat will cool while you are making multiple trips out! I like to hunt with my longer range 7 rem mag, or 338 win mag, and then go with my 444 marlin, as it is nicer to carry while packing out meat. A short shot gun would work too! It's an adventure, and it will test your gumption for sure, both physically and mentally, and it is worth it! If you get your LEH, PM me, I may be able to answer a few questions. Moosin

[Downwindtracker2]

If you are alone, have lots of rigging, even with a ATV. You are only dealing with 1/2 a ton. If someone comes by and gives you a hand, offer them a quarter. I've walked away from a selfish older couple, and would do it again.

[KBC]

Thanks for the replies so far. Seems a bit mixed. As far as bush experience goes I’ve been camping, hiking and spending time in the outdoors since I was 9 or 10 for almost 30 years now. I’m comfortable by myself, carry an inreach and have taken care of a vehicle break down in the bush on more than a few occasions. I could probably use a first aid refresher as it’s been awhile but in general I think I’m ok spending time alone in the woods.

Im sure I’ll mess something up while gutting and quartering but that’s part of the learning process. I have studied a lot about it but there is nothing like hands on experience. My main questions and concerns are really about access, safety and assuming you don’t mind hard work, is a solo moose hunt still too much.

Thanks for the the comments so far!

[bighornbob]

Thanks for the replies so far. Seems a bit mixed. As far as bush experience goes I’ve been camping, hiking and spending time in the outdoors since I was 9 or 10 for almost 30 years now. I’m comfortable by myself, carry an inreach and have taken care of a vehicle break down in the bush on more than a few occasions. I could probably use a first aid refresher as it’s been awhile but in general I think I’m ok spending time alone in the woods.

Im sure I’ll mess something up while gutting and quartering but that’s part of the learning process. I have studied a lot about it but there is nothing like hands on experience. My main questions and concerns are really about access, safety and assuming you don’t mind hard work, is a solo moose hunt still too much.

Thanks for the the comments so far!

i Hunt solo all the time and have killed and field dressed a ton. To give you an idea of what it takes , I shot a moose from the road and it dropped about 130m from the truck. Flat spot and easy walking to the truck.

Shot at 8:30am and was washing my hands at 1pm. Moose was skinned and quartered where it fell plus neck meat and ribs taken too.

So 4.5 hours in ideal conditions. Throw terrain, distance, weather, time of day, where the moose died etc etc and your time goes up two to 10 fold.

Only you know your abilities but I will let you judge if it’s doable and realistic.

Never been in those areas but good luck.

Bhb

[mike31154]

Myself & 2 buddies were successful on an LEH for moose last fall. Only 1 of us 3 had experience downing & preparing an animal the size of a bull. Myself & the bud that dropped the moose were the novices. I was on a motorbike, other 2 had ATVs. Dropped the moose about 30 meters from the FSR, in a partial cutblock with a good deal of deadfall & uncleared lumber. Downed at about 18:00. It was 03:00 in the morning by the time we had finished quartering, transporting, hanging & skinning the animal. We're reasonably fit, but no longer spring chickens & it took 3 of us to manhandle a rear quarter.

Colin, the youngest of us harvested the animal. He's a big strong fella. Not far from the road but the fallen logs made getting the quarters out tougher than it looks. The ATVs came in very handy but still had to clear some timber to get the carcass to the road. Rather than make multiple trips back to camp with the ATVs, I went back & brought my pickup in to transport the quarters in one go.https://pjdvpg.dm.files.1drv.com/y4mmojpguewYmUrNem-uWtIEItqb4uw2K36MOHtPeK4Irvq9omQe-azGcE2Ln58UBZ0Hje3To_bqZY-ZUEj4Bkpb56cy3Rv0Mxw4VnuRF3p8SAWSShMk_eJ8rjx_st64_ NAyC858DhYNk7pH-IbpcN-YLwq0ljULf_GgCHrRdFTk89vyvJhRYfEIFXEW-0D-XQyMkVy02DAh16ybsVetnokMA?width=1024&height=1024&cropmode=none

Personally, I would not attempt a moose solo. Deer yes. Having said that, during our trip we coincidentally met a friend of our experienced buddy, also a very experienced hunter. He was on a solo moose hunt in the adjacent MU on GOS bow hunt. Great guy, SAR (Search & Rescue Tech) in the Air Force. About as tough & experienced in the outdoors as they come & a few years younger than us. He had been on successful solo moose hunts before, as well as losing one after getting a single arrow into him. He was equipped with an ATV & one of the other accessories he mentioned that came in useful was a sheet of thick plastic material, sort of like crazy carpet. He said it was a great way to drag a quarter along the ground.

Best of luck to you.

[ACE]

Have taken two bulls solo . . . lots to consider here. Bob above took his in the morning under good conditions. A bull dropped late in the afternoon is a job that stretches into the night. Coming back to the kill site in the dark alone, after taking a load out, can be dangerous in bear country. You will need lots of rigging, and a hunting partner just makes the job faster and easier. You don't want to lose meat because you can't deal with the job in a quick manner.
My $0.02 worth would be to solo for Mule deer first . . . good luck to you what ever you decide to do.

[Rackmastr]

I should be clear on my response. The 'moose hunt' portion of the choice is the smallest decision. A person can hunt moose solo anytime, no problem. Its a learning experience and they are hard work, but its likely the smallest of my concerns when making a decision on a hunt like that.

My reservations are directed to the area, the remoteness, and the time I've spent in the area. Just wouldn't make me comfortable going solo but as I said, the moose is likely the smallest factor in the choice.

[mpotzold]

LT(LOVER 308 ) & I hunted in the 7-28, 7-38 region since'67 for moose.

Hunted alone in the area more than a few times & have been successful.

Lots of bears in the area so be prepared for an encounter when hunting & especially when field dressing & carrying out game. Have rifle handy & chambered. Flag the area(2 ft. high circle) of the kill site & approach site carefully when returning. Also listen to birds & rodents.

Nation River/Lakes 7-28 area was one of our favourite.
Lots of swampy areas from Nation to Manson Creek to check for fresh signs.
Best is right after a fresh snowfall.

Nowadays I would highly recommend a SPOT or equivalent.

[cameron0518]

Try moving up to rabbits instead of a moose. Coming from experience and 4 months of heavy training to get in shape to do it, a moose isn't an easy animal for one person. I even had help with a quad and it still took until 2am to finish up. I think it took about 8-10 hours from start to finish. Good luck on your possible adventure and even better luck needed to get a draw.

[cuervosail]

It's hunting. Sometimes it's tough. Society has become soft. Find some social media pages of guys who really put in the time and effort to be successful. Get some inspiration from them. They don't usually hunt from a truck or an ATV and you'll not likely find them shooting something close to a road in a cutblock. If you're successful, you'll be thinking of your efforts every time you cook up one of those moose steaks. It sounds like you are young and ambitious. Just do the work!

[RackStar]

Sounds like you’re prepared. 7-28, bring a atv and jump right in and have a adventure. I hunt solo almost 100% , you get a different experience. Keep busy, it sounds all good from the computer but the mental aspect can be tough at times. I love my inreach for this.

Just take it easy and stay safe is #1.

Just think of how much you won’t get to see and do in life if you wait on others.

Have fun!

[KBC]

Thanks for all the comments so far. I don't think I will be putting in for 7-40 or 7-41 since it sounds like it isn't the greatest place to go especially solo. I will be hunting solo wherever I end up going whether its for moose or if I don't get a draw it will be elk for the week and a half I have off in October.

One question I had in the OP was about resources like elk101 for moose. Is there anything like that you would recommend?