Hunting on the Palmer Ranch

Trophy Mule Deer

The Ranch provides exclusive access to approximately 6500 acres of private land in a scenic setting at the foot of the Rocky Mountains and Waterton National Park. The diversity of habitat creates premium conditions to support a large resident herd of whitetail deer that use the Waterton River bottom as sanctuary. The herd routinely moves out to adjacent fields to feed in the evenings, and return to cover in the morning. In the fall, the herd attracts some of the best bucks in the region, and creates an opportunity for the hunter to be selective.

As well, the ranch encompasses a broad ridge overlooking the Waterton River that forms the rangeland for mule deer. With the ranch’s proximity to woodland and mountain forest it is a good bet that a few trophy mule deer will reside on the property throughout the year and attract competition during the fall hunt.

Our hunts are a combination of sight and stalk, or ambush while waiting under cover at strategic crossing points. Transportation is provided by 4 wheel drive vehicle. The rifle season in southwest Alberta starts on October 25th, and continues during the month of November which coincides with the annual rut, giving the hunter an edge in finding a real good buck. The ranch offers 6 day, 1 on 1 guided hunts at a cost of $3500US, plus license fees and applicable tax. We have in the past offered combination whitetail/mule deer hunts and encourage hunters to bring a partner along.

Outstanding Upland Hunting

The ranch is also home to some outstanding upland hunting for sharptail grouse and Hungarian partridge. The ranch also has a permit to release pheasants which can supplement the upland experience. Migratory birds are plentiful in the area during the late fall as ducks and geese stage on nearby Waterton Reservoir, working grain fields as they prepare for migration. Open water will keep birds in the area well into December, often providing some excellent late season hunting.

Cast & Blast

October is the month to pursue the unique “cast and blast” on the ranch, fly fishing and bird hunting respectively. Combination hunts for both migratory birds and deer hunts is a possibility during November.

Custom hunting trips

Contact us now for more information on hunting the Palmer Ranch. All of our trips can be customized to fit your needs, or to meet your specific hunting objectives.