Big Game Alces alces
Moose Hunting Guide
Complete Moose hunting guide. Seasons by state, hunting methods, trophy criteria, rut timing, and field care tips for moose hunters.
Rut Timing
Sep 20 - Oct 15
Bull Live Weight
1000–1600 lbs
Boneless Yield
42%
Scoring
Boone & Crockett
Typical Season Dates
archery
Sep
rifle
Sep-Nov
Note: Exact dates vary by state and management unit. Always verify with your state wildlife agency before purchasing licenses.
Trophy Criteria
Boone & Crockett Minimum
195"
Pope & Young Minimum (Archery)
135"
Where to Hunt Moose
Meat Yield
| Animal | Live Weight (avg) | Bone-In Yield | Boneless Yield | Boneless lbs (avg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| bull | 1200 lbs | 55% | 42% | 504 lbs |
| cow | 850 lbs | 55% | 42% | 357 lbs |
Moose Hunting Tools
Other Species Guides
Moose Hunting Articles & Guides
Alaska Moose Hunting: The Complete Guide
Colorado Moose Draw Odds: North Park Bulls and the Long Game
Idaho Moose Draw Odds: Application Strategy for the Shiras Bull of a Lifetime
Montana Moose Draw Odds: Random Draw Shiras and the Accessibility Advantage
Moose Hunting Tactics: How to Find and Kill a Shiras Bull
Utah Hunting Guide: Elk, Deer, Pronghorn, and the Point System
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Moose season?
Moose seasons vary by state and weapon type. Typical archery season: Sep. Rifle season: Sep-Nov. Peak rut is typically Sep 20 - Oct 15.
What is a trophy-class Moose?
Minimum scores for the record books are: Boone & Crockett: 195 inches, Pope & Young (archery): 135 inches. These are all-time minimums — many hunters target smaller, more achievable trophy goals.
How much meat does a Moose yield?
A mature moose bull/buck weighs 1000–1600 lbs (avg 1200 lbs) live weight. Expect 55% boneless meat yield — roughly 504 lbs of boneless meat from an average animal.
What states can I hunt Moose?
Moose can be hunted in: MT, WY, CO, ID, UT, AK, ME, NH, MN. Western states like MT, WY, CO are known for their moose populations.
When is the Moose rut?
The Moose rut typically peaks during Sep 20 - Oct 15. This is the best time to target large bulls/bucks, as they are more active and less cautious while seeking mates.