The Arctic Monarc

Hunting Musk Ox in the Northwest Territories

The Northwest Territories (NWT) of Canada is a vast, untouched wilderness that offers one of the most unique big-game hunting experiences on the planet: a hunt for the magnificent Barren Ground Musk Ox (Ovibos moschatus). This shaggy, prehistoric-looking creature, a relic of the Ice Age, provides an adventure that goes far beyond pulling a trigger—it's a journey into the heart of the Arctic.

The Experience: Spot, Stalk, and Arctic Immersion

Hunting musk ox in the NWT is a spot and stalk adventure in incredibly remote terrain. The experience is defined by the sheer scale and solitude of the Arctic barrens.

• The Hunt: You’ll be traveling long distances—often by snowmobile, ATV, or boat, depending on the season—to locate herds or solitary trophy bulls. Once a herd is spotted, the final approach is typically done on foot. Musk ox are known for their defensive circling formation, making the stalk a blend of patience and strategic movement. It can be a very challenging, yet rewarding, spot-and-stalk hunt, even conducive to archery in the warmer months.

• The Scenery: Expect an unending, rugged landscape of tundra, rock, and possibly sea ice. You may be treated to the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the fall tundra or the stark, blinding white of a northern spring. Witnessing the musk ox rut in late summer/early fall, where bulls engage in spectacular head-banging fights, is an unforgettable sight.

• Accommodations: Lodging varies greatly, from comfortable, modern fly-in lodges with heat and hot showers to more traditional, basic cabins or insulated wall tents in spike camps. A spring hunt often means embracing a traditional, rugged, cold-weather experience with Inuit guides, making the adventure as much about cultural immersion as it is about the hunt.

When to Go: Spring vs. Fall

The NWT offers two primary seasons for musk ox hunting, each with a distinct experience:

Season	Time of Year	Weather & Conditions	Hunter Experience
Spring Hunt	Late February to Late April	Extremely cold (-1 degrees F in April) full snow cover, long periods of darkness.	A true Arctic adventure with travel often by snowmobile and sled. All about the challenge and traditional Inuit culture. Trophy quality is excellent with prime winter capes.
Fall Hunt	Mid-August to Mid-September	Milder temperatures (often above freezing, 28F - 60F) less snow, stunning fall colors.	Travel by ATV and boat. Coincides with the rut, offering exciting opportunity to witness aggressive bull behavior. Ideal for those who prefer less extreme cold and longer daylight hours. Often can be combined with fishing.

The Best Time: There is no single "best" time; it depends on your preference.

• If you seek a rugged, traditional, deep-cold Arctic challenge and the most beautiful, long winter hide, choose the Spring Hunt.

• If you prefer milder weather, long daylight hours, and the thrill of the rut, the Fall Hunt (especially mid-August to early-September) is highly recommended.

Gear and Clothing: Dressing for the Arctic

Proper gear is non-negotiable for an Arctic hunt. Whether facing frigid spring temperatures or cold fall wind, layering is key.

• Outerwear: A high-quality, windproof, and waterproof parka and trousers are essential. For a spring hunt, you need dedicated extreme cold weather gear.

• Layers: A proven system of thermal base layers (wool/synthetics), fleece, and a down mid-layer. Avoid cotton entirely.

• Hands and Feet: Multiple pairs of heavy-duty, insulated, waterproof boots (some outfitters recommend knee-high rubber boots for fall hunts) and an abundance of heavy mitts and gloves.

• Other Essentials:

  • Sunglasses or Goggles: Crucial to prevent snow blindness in spring, and for general eye protection year-round.

  • Headwear: Warm, windproof hat/balaclava.

  • Sleeping Bag: A quality bag rated for -20F or colder, especially for spike camps.

  • Optics: High-quality binoculars and a spotting scope are a must for glassing the vast open terrain.

Rifle Caliber Recommendation

Musk ox are large, robust animals with thick, dense hair and a heavy bone structure. While they are often shot at moderate ranges (50 to 350 yards), the animal’s resilience and the tough hide demand adequate penetration.

• Recommended Calibers: Calibers in the .30-caliber magnum class or larger are generally preferred and highly effective:

  • .300 Winchester Magnum (.300 Win Mag)

  • .338 Winchester Magnum (.338 Win Mag)

  • .375 H&H Magnum

• Minimum Calibers: While some hunters use the .30-06 or 7mm Remington Magnum, if you use these, it is absolutely critical to use a premium, controlled-expansion, deep-penetrating bullet (like Nosler Partition, Swift A-Frame, or Barnes X-bullets) to ensure a clean, ethical harvest through the heavy hide and muscle.

The most important factor is shot placement. Bring a rifle that you are extremely comfortable and proficient with, as a clean shot is the priority over sheer power.

A musk ox hunt in the Northwest Territories is an investment in a world-class adventure—a test of gear, stamina, and patience against one of the most formidable backdrops on Earth.