Trophy Mule Deer Hunts in Southeast Alberta

ABOUT THE OUTFITTER
This Alberta-based outfitting operation was established in 2024 through the acquisition of an existing, well-regarded business. The new owners are lifelong Canadian hunters and remain fully involved in the field as hands-on professional guides. They are supported by a team of three additional experienced guides, each known for their skill and dedication. They take their job seriously and they produce well above average results. They know what it takes to get a big buck on the ground, and their photo gallery speaks louder than words.

Southeast Alberta, particularly around this region, is renowned for consistently producing big-bodied mule deer with impressive antler genetics. Bucks scoring 170” to 190” are common, with potential for true giants. The outiftter specializes in spot-and-stalk mule deer hunts—both archery and rifle—with a total of 23 coveted allocations across the rugged Southern Alberta Badlands. In addition to mule deer, they also hold 15 allocations for archery and rifle whitetail hunts. Mule deer hunts are offered as both single-species and combination packages, with whitetail available on a trophy-fee basis. (See pricing for details.)

This area of Southeast Alberta delivers the perfect blend of trophy potential, scenic terrain, low pressure, and authentic Western hunting that appeals to both seasoned rifle hunters and die-hard bowhunters alike.

HUNT DETAILS
The hunting area is approximately 9000 sq. miles, and the terrain consists of open plains, deep river breaks, and winding coulees, offering ideal conditions for spotting mature bucks. For rifle hunters, the outfitter consistently targets bucks in the 170" to 190"+ class. They conduct 12 rifle hunts annually, accommodating a maximum of four hunters per week throughout November—the heart of the rut.

The hunt will consist of traditional spot and stalk methods, including walking, kneeling, and belly crawling, through a combination of rugged coulee systems and rolling native pasture/grasslands. The client can anticipate spending several hours per day glassing terrain both on foot and from a pickup truck.

During the archery season, the client may be crawling and kneeling in areas with cactus. Suitable gloves, pants with kneepads, and a backpack (or another device that allows the client to attach their bow to their back) are recommended. The main method for hunting mule deer in this area of Alberta involves a highly strategic spot-and-stalk approach adapted to the region’s open prairie, coulees, and badlands terrain. You will begin by glassing early in the morning and late afternoon from high vantage points to locate mature bucks as they feed or move to bedding areas. Spotting scopes and binoculars are essential tools. Once a target buck is located, hunters you will analyze wind direction to ensure you remain undetected by scent. Then there's the topography, using the deep coulees, ridges, and breaks to stay concealed during the approach. A lot of the time the outfitter will use sunlight and shadows, often using them to stay hidden during mid-day stalks if needed. Then it comes down to moving quietly and patiently, sometimes crawling on your hands and knees—or even belly crawling—to close the distance.

Mule deer in this region are highly alert due to the open landscape, so every move must be calculated. The final approach often involves getting within 20–50 yards for an ethical bow shot, depending on conditions and the hunter’s skill. Once in position, you also may need to wait for the deer to stand up from its bed or present a clear, broadside shot—requiring patience and steadiness.

This method demands good physical fitness, discipline, and a deep understanding of mule deer behavior in open-country settings. This outfitter has all of that and more!

Archery hunts run during September and October, also targeting 170" to 190"+ bucks. These are 6-day hunts, Monday through Saturday, with no big game hunting permitted on Sundays in their zones. Only 2–3 clients are taken per week to ensure a high-quality, focused experience. Extensions can be arranged at $500/day, pending outfitter approval and scheduling availability.

The guiding team is made up of serious archery hunters who have a track record of success on both private and crown land. Surprisingly, some of their most productive archery areas are public crown lands with foot-access only. These hard-to-reach, non-motorized zones require hiking and pack-outs, deterring casual hunters and giving this team an edge in locating and harvesting mature bucks.

For rifle hunts, these are 4-day hunts, with clients arriving on Tuesdays, hunting Wednesday through Saturday, and departing on Sunday. Some clients choose to arrive early to scout alongside the outfitter prior to the hunt as well. During the rifle season, the client can expect the potential to hike in up to 12 inches of snow. Gaiters are helpful to keep pants and boots dry.

On their rifle hunts, once a mature buck is located, the outfitter/guide and you will assess antler size, age, and behavior to determine if it's worth pursuing. Bucks in this area often range from 170” to 190”, with larger trophies seen annually. You will move slowly and cautiously, using the terrain to break your silhouette. Stalks can range from a few hundred yards to over a mile, depending on how exposed the terrain is and how far the deer are.

Shots typically range from 200 to 400+ yards, so steady shooting positions and rifles chambered in flat-shooting calibers (like .270, .300 Win Mag, or 6.5) are common. Accuracy and confidence at long range put the odds in your favor in this open country setting.

For both archery and rifle hunts, the client will need to be in good physical and cardiovascular shape and be prepared for long hikes involving steep terrain, rough coulees, and rugged grasslands while carrying gear and game. Cardiovascular, strength, mobility, and flexibility training are highly recommended in preparation for the hunt.

ACCOMMODATIONS:
All hunts are all-inclusive. Lodging is provided either in a fully equipped and comfortable hunting cabin or in a quality hotel in the nearby town, depending on the hunt location.

LICENSE INFORMATION
All licenses and tags are available over the counter upon arrival. The outfitter assists clients with the entire process to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

ADDITIONAL HUNTING OPPORTUNITIES
Beyond mule deer and whitetail, this outfitter also holds rifle and archery antelope allocations and offers black bear hunts. For those interested in predators or small game, they provide guided coyote call-in hunts and upland bird hunting.

They also own a jet boat, allowing for remote access to otherwise unreachable hunting zones or for enjoying sturgeon and walleye fishing when clients tag out early.