It’s moose tag season again, a highly anticipated time for Northern Ontario hunters eager to participate in the annual moose hunt. With the application process underway, hunters must ensure they meet the eligibility requirements and follow the deadlines for each stage of the allocation process. The points-based moose tag allocation system offers hunters the opportunity to apply for calf, cow/calf, and bull tags, each with specific hunting regulations. The anticipation builds as hunters await the allocation results and claim their awarded tags, preparing for the adventures that await them in the Northwest Ontario wilderness. As the season progresses, the camaraderie among hunters and the thrill of the chase make moose tag season a cherished tradition and an integral part of Northwest Ontario’s hunting culture.

 Moose population estimates 2022/2023:

Tags allowed by WMU 2023:

Here’s a summary of the steps and dates for applying for and receiving moose tags in Ontario in 2023:

1. Ensure you’re eligible to apply: Ontario residents with a valid Outdoors Card, hunter accreditation on file, and aged 15 or older can apply. Apprentices and non-residents are not eligible.
2. Apply for moose tag allocation:
   1. Primary allocation stage: April 1 to May 1, 2023
   2. Second chance allocation stage: June 15 to July 7, 2023, You can apply online, by phone (1-800-288-1155), or in person at a licence issuer or participating ServiceOntario location.
3. Check allocation results:
   1. Primary allocation stage results: May 16, 2023
   2. Second chance allocation stage results: August 1, 2023, You can check your results online through your Fish and Wildlife Licensing Service account or by phone (1-800-288-1155).
4. Claim and purchase your moose tag:
   1. Primary allocation stage: Claim between May 16 and June 7, 2023
   2. Second chance allocation stage: Claim between August 1 and the end of the relevant season. Purchase a moose license and your tag online, by phone (1-800-288-1155; primary allocation only), or at a participating ServiceOntario location or a licence issuer.
5. Print your moose tag: Starting August 15, 2023, you can print your tag at home through your Fish and Wildlife Licensing Service account, at a licence issuer, or at a participating ServiceOntario location.

Fees for the moose tag application process are as follows:

• Tag allocation process application fee: $15.00
• Resident moose licence: $35.29
• Calf tag: $30.00
• Cow/calf tag: $150.00
• Bull tag: $200.00. All fees are subject to 13% HST.