QUEST: HUNTING GAME SPECIES

The game quality at Laurentian is unmatched anywhere in the world.  No other hunting venue can boast ever holding the record for both the world’s largest Elk and largest Stag.  Laurentian not only accomplished this historic feat, but has broken both records in a single year.  In fact, Laurentian claims 8 of the top 10 Elk and Red Deer in the World.  Along with Elk and Red Deer, Laurentian provides chances for enormous Plains and Wood Bison, Northern Whitetail, European Fallow and Canadian Black Bear.

MANITOBA ELK

There are three primary ingredients necessary to grow impressive trophies; genetics, age and nutrition.  The primary genetic present in the herd at Laurentian, stems from the Swan River region of Canada.  This sub-species has historically produced large elk, with massive antlers. No bulls are harvested until they reach a minimum of five years of age and our herd is provided with exceptional nutrition through natural and supplemental food sources.  It is only through our stringent management and intense selection practices, we are able to continually offer superior trophy class animals, to our clientele.

Elk are only hunted once their gross score is estimated at 300” or more (SCI) and at a minimum five years of age.  Our average Royal Valley bulls score 340-360”, with the potential of finding a bull scoring up to 380".  Our Monarch Mountain hunters are assured bulls scoring a minimum of 380”.  For those elite few who are only seeking a “once in a lifetime” trophy, to me immortalized within the record books, Laurentian offers a limited number of Super Record Class hunts, which guarantee placement in highest tiers of the record book. (per Quote)

RED DEER

Throughout history, no game animal has commanded more notoriety than the majestic Red Stag.  This deer species resembles an elk, yet with a definitive crown atop his antlers.  In medieval times, royalty would pursue red deer on horseback, only being allowed to harvest a mature stag,  known as a “hart of ten.” (10 points or more).  At Laurentian, we continue to honor this tradition, with the ability to pursue our trophy stags, which are adorned with between 14 and 40 total points.
Although we are known primarily for our Manitoba elk, it is our impressive and stately herd of Stags, of which we are most proud.    A single species hunt may be booked for these regal creatures or many clients often choose our Elk and Stag combination hunt. We have created a special pricing for this unique package. 

FALLOW

The fallow deer is considered the most adaptable of all deer species.  It has been compared to a cross between an Asian Axis and Northern Moose, with it’s limited points, long beams and unmistakeable palmation.  The fallow is clever and a challenge to hunt, with an attitude not often seen in deer.  Fallow buck have  been known on rare occasion  to “lock antlers” with his cousin the red stag, when territories overlap in the rut.
(Fallow bucks may be harvested on a trophy fee basis, during any hunt and fallow doe hunts are available as part of our youth hunts – based on availability)

BISON

The Plains Buffalo is the most common and prevalent species of Bison in North America.  The lesser known cousin is the Wood Bison, found primarily in the Northern most reaches of Alberta.  These bison are larger in size and have adapted to the harsh conditions of their winter climate.  The rugs produced by these trophies are both beautiful and enormous. Bison may be harvested on a combo hunt with Black Bear in the Spring as well.
(Plains and Wood Bison may be harvested on a trophy fee basis, during any hunt, based on availability)

WHITETAIL DEER

Canada is no stranger to trophy class whitetails. The Boone & Crockett world-record was taken in Canada and massive bucks reside from BC to the Atlantic coastline.  The Northern Whitetails in Quebec are known for both massive bodies and antlers.  We offer whitetail hunting to clients, following the successful harvest of their elk or stag.

(Whitetails may be harvested on a trophy fee basis, following any hunt, based on availability)

BLACK BEAR

This is the only predator hunt offered at Laurentian.  These bears are certainly predators too, as they are the number one threat to fawn and moose calves.  Trophy bears in this area average between 250 and 500 pounds and measure 5 to 7 feet.  In the Spring, when no deer hunts are available, we provide a first class bear experience.  Hunters can book a six day, all inclusive package, for bears over bait.  Fishing options may be added to these Spring hunts, as most hunting is done in evening hours. Black Bear hunts may also be combined with Bison in May

FISHING

Hart Lake, situated in the middle of the Estate, provides a tranquil setting to wet a line. Resident Brook Trout and aerial Rainbow Trout make for great spin casting and fly fishing. Fishing at Hart Lake is included with all hunts and offers an enjoyable midday option for hunters who bag their game early.