Mountain Lion Hunt with Hounds – Adventure in the North American Wilderness

Experience a unique hunt for one of North America's most elusive and majestic predators – the mountain lion (Puma concolor). This hunt is conducted exclusively with specially trained hounds that track fresh mountain lion signs and lead the hunter through demanding terrain to where the animal is hiding.

Hunting mountain lions with dogs has a long tradition in North America. Native peoples originally used dogs for hunting large predators. In the 20th century, this method became popular among hunters and helped regulate mountain lion populations where overpopulation was a concern.

 

Season

December – March

 

Destination

USA or Canada – depending on the client's preferences and difficulty level

 

Duration

10 days / 7 nights / 6 hunting days

 

Game Species

Mountain lion, Canadian lynx, Bobcat, Coyote

 

Travel

By air

 

Meals

Depending on the location and client’s preference

 

Accommodation

Depending on the location and client’s preference

 

Weapons

Personal firearm / rental available (recommended), bow hunting allowed

 

 

Ethics and Regulations

This hunt is strictly regulated. When the mountain lion is treed, the hunter has plenty of time to identify the animal. An experienced guide will assist in determining its sex and age. If it's a female with kittens, the hunt is stopped immediately and tracking resumes elsewhere. Ethical conduct and conservation are core principles of this hunt.Preferred target is adult male (called a "tom").

 

How to identify a tom (male)?

Key visual differences include:

• Body size: Males are larger, more muscular, and robust.
• Head: Toms have broader skulls, stronger jaws, and shorter muzzles.
• Tail: Males often have a darker, sharply defined black tip.
• Groin: When treed, males' testicles are often visible from below.
• Tracks: Males leave larger prints with a more pronounced heel pad.

Hunting with dogs allows ample time for correct identification and decision-making, minimizing the risk of unethical harvests.

Other species like coyotes, Canadian lynx, and bobcats can also be hunted during this trip.

 

Weather

Conditions vary by location and month (December–March), but generally include cold, snowy mountain weather with temperature fluctuations.

Morning temperatures range from -5°C to -20°C (23°F to -4°F), and even lower in remote, high-elevation areas. On sunny days, daytime highs may reach 0°C (32°F), but expect snow, wind, and frozen terrain.

As we say, “There’s no bad weather – only poorly dressed hunters,” we recommend checking the forecast shortly before your departure and dressing accordingly. Layered, waterproof, and insulated gear is essential for both the hunt and outdoor travel in these conditions.

 

Gear and Equipment

Good physical condition is necessary the terrain may involve several hours of trekking through snow or with snowshoes. Warm, waterproof clothing and insulated boots suitable for snow-covered terrain are recommended.
A full gear checklist will be provided to each client upon booking.

Firearms: Personal guns are allowed. Bow hunting is also legal. However, since shots are taken at close range and often in demanding conditions, we recommend renting a firearm locally.

Recommended calibers: .44 Magnum, .243 Win, and larger (e.g., .30-06).

 

Why choose this hunt?

• Authentic hound hunting – tradition, adrenaline, and wilderness combined
• Stunning winter scenery – snow-covered mountains and remote forests
• Professional and ethical hunting – respectful to wildlife and sustainable