A rite of passage: Fall hunting season

Moose hunting in northern Ontario isn’t just a pastime for me — it’s a way of life, a family tradition that’s been passed down through the years. I’ve been chasing these majestic creatures since I was a young adult, learning the ropes from my father, who taught me a lot of what I know about tracking, calling, and respecting the land and animal. Now, I carry on that legacy with my sons, friends and husband, passing down stories and skills that have become woven into the very fabric of our family.

There’s something special about heading into the wilds of northern Ontario each fall, especially during the weekend that coincides with Thanksgiving. It’s a time when gratitude and tradition come together under the expansive sky, surrounded by towering pines and the sounds of nature. Moose hunting during this time feels like a rite of passage — a celebration of family, perseverance, and the great outdoors. 

The thrill of calling in a moose is unlike anything else. It’s a deep, guttural sound that echoes through the forest, and when you hear that reply, your heart races. Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of patience and respect — for the animal, for the land, and for the history we’re carrying forward. It’s about more than just the chase; it’s about honoring the wilderness that has given us so much.

Sharing this experience is priceless. It’s in our blood, a true family tradition that keeps us connected to the land and each other. How many Northern Ontario families can relate to this? I would love to hear your moose hunting memories and stories, hopefully you can comment underneath so I can read them. 

Each year, as the leaves change and the air turns crisp, we pack our gear and head north, unless we are lucky enough to already live there. We set up camp, tell stories around the fire, and wait patiently for that perfect moment when a moose appears. It’s a week of hard work, camaraderie, and making memories that will last a lifetime.

And of course, after a successful hunt, there’s nothing better than enjoying the fruits of our labour with a good moose recipe. Here’s one of my favourites:

Moose Stew

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs moose meat, cubed

– 2 tbsp vegetable oil

– 1 large onion, chopped

– 3 carrots, sliced

– 3 potatoes, cubed

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 4 cups beef or vegetable broth

– 1 tsp thyme

– 1 tsp rosemary

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Optional: peas, mushrooms, or parsnips for extra flavor

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cubed moose meat and brown on all sides.

2. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.

3. Add the carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

4. Pour in the broth, bringing everything to a boil.

5. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 2-3 hours until the meat is tender and the flavors meld.

6. Add any additional vegetables in the last 30 minutes if desired.

7. Serve hot with fresh bread or biscuits.

This hearty stew is perfect for sharing with family and friends, especially after a successful hunt — a true taste of the wild, straight from northern Ontario.

Moose hunting is more than just a tradition; it’s a connection to nature, family, and history. And with each hunt, I feel grateful for the land and the memories we’re creating.