So You Want to Wrestle a Giant Water Moose in Ontario? How to Snag a Moose Tag
Ah, the majestic moose. Towering beasts with a regal air and a fondness for aquatic vegetation (hence the nickname "water moose" – don't tell them I said that). If you're dreaming of a Canadian hunting adventure that involves outsmarting (or maybe just outsitting) one of these magnificent creatures, then you'll need a moose tag in Ontario. But fear not, intrepid hunter, for this guide will have you moose-tag-ready in no time!
 |
| How To Get A Moose Tag In Ontario |
Step 1: Accepting Your New Reality as a Pointy-Shoed Stalker
First things first, understand that getting a moose tag in Ontario is a marathon, not a sprint. It's a points-based system, which means you basically apply and accumulate points each year until you build up enough to snag that coveted tag. Think of it as a loyalty program for aspiring moose wranglers. The more you apply, the closer you get to your prize. Just picture yourself with a stack of points so high, it grazes the underbelly of a passing Canada goose.
Pro Tip: Patience is key. Unless you're some kind of moose-whispering prodigy, plan to spend a few years building up your points.
Step 2: Applying Like a Pro (or at Least Like Someone Who Can Read Instructions)
The good news is, applying for a moose tag is pretty straightforward. The application period typically runs until April 30th, so don't be that hunter who shows up with a perfectly good flannel shirt and a dream, only to realize they missed the deadline. You can apply in three ways:
QuickTip: Copy useful snippets to a notes app.
- Channel your inner online warrior: Head over to the Ontario Fish and Wildlife Licensing Service [Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks] and get applying with the click of a mouse (or should that be a moose click?).
- Embrace the nostalgia of the phone: Dial 1-800-288-1155 and get ready to navigate the automated system like a champ.
- Get social (with a license issuer): Visit a license issuer or participating ServiceOntario location and apply in person. Bonus points for chatting up the staff about their most epic moose encounters (but maybe wait until after you've submitted your application).
Remember: There's usually an application fee, so make sure you have your plastic moose-hunting-tag-fund ready.
Step 3: The Waiting Game (and Maybe Some Practice Moose Calls?)
Now comes the agonizing wait. This is where your patience from Step 1 comes in handy. Results are typically announced in May, so channel your inner zen master and avoid refreshing your inbox every two seconds.
In the meantime, use this waiting period productively. Practice your moose calls (nobody wants to sound like a confused goose when they're face-to-face with a mighty moose). Research the different Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) and figure out where your dream moose might be hanging out. Maybe even invest in some comfy camo pants – those twigs won't know what hit them.
QuickTip: Read with curiosity — ask ‘why’ often.
Hot Tip: There's a second chance allocation in August for any unclaimed tags, so don't lose hope if you don't get lucky in the first round.
Step 4: Claiming Your Prize and Preparing for Moose Mayhem (the Fun Part!)
If the moose gods smile upon you and you snag a tag, congratulations! Now it's time to claim your prize by purchasing a moose license and your tag. You can do this online, by phone (for the primary allocation only), or at a license issuer/ServiceOntario location. Don't be that guy who forgets to claim their tag – those are prime moose-wrangling opportunities going to waste!
 |
Important Note: There are deadlines for claiming your tag, so make sure you read the fine print carefully. Nobody wants to miss out on their moose moment because of a missed deadline.
Tip: Avoid distractions — stay in the post.
FAQ: Moose Tag Mania in Ontario
How to apply for a moose tag in Ontario?
You can apply online, by phone (1-800-288-1155), or in person at a license issuer/ServiceOntario location by April 30th.
How much does a moose tag application cost?
QuickTip: Read section by section for better flow.
There's usually an application fee involved, so check the Ontario Fish and Wildlife Licensing Service website for current rates.
How long does it take to get a moose tag in Ontario?
It's a points-based system, so expect to wait a few years unless you're a lucky newbie.
Is there a second chance to get a moose tag?
 |
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
