I am making my air arrangements for travel to Alberta for a moose hunt and was hoping someone with recent experience could give a few tips.

My concerns -

I should fly into Grande Prairie. This will require a stop first at either Calgary or Edmonton. This first stop will be in the import point as far the firearm correct? So my plans should leave plenty of time to get my temporary import permit. I am thinking a few hours to be safe or in case a plane is late?

If I should happen to be successful and wish to carry back the meat, there is a processor that can flash freeze. From the latest info I was provided, all I will need is the hunting license to bring it across the US border at the airport?

I will be hunting in the middle of November the week of the US Thanksgiving. It is roughly the same cost to fly to Edmonton and drive 4 hours than fly to Grande Prairie. Any local information on Hwy 43 at this time of year? I assume it is always open and readily driveable other than a freak storm? For a guy from Louisiana


Thanks for any input.

Flown thru Edmonton many times with firearms. They are very use to Americans with guns. I believe you can get permit online before arrival.
Also, returning is not a problem as you clear US customs before leaving Edmonton.

metalman29

I would allow 3 hours on both ends to gather baggage, clear customs and get you guns inspected.

I think in late November I'd forget the rental car and fly. Driving in snow and ice takes some getting used to. if you do rent a vehicle make sure you get a 4x4.

Mark

As a Canadian I find Calgary a better place to fly into with guns. There are 2-3 butchers in and around Grande Prairie, but been hunting season you may not get you meat cut for a week to ten days. There a good one in Grovedale that really caters to hunters. Ask you Guide about this. Barton’s Big Country is the best gun shop in town

Hwy 43 can be a crap shoot in November. I've driven it in summer like conditions and I've been in blizzards and black ice.

If you aren't used to what Alberta can throw at you my recommendation would be to fly to Grande Prairie.