Q: Hi from England! I would like to know if any hunting in the USA is classed as 'big game' or 'dangerous game'. If so where can this hunting be had, and what species are on these lists? What are the laws regarding the taking of pelts/ heads/ trophies etc? Can any of these species be eaten? Are there any restrictions as to what the MAXIMUM rifle calibre is that can be used? And would a British citizen, with a British firearms ticket, likely be allowed to hire or buy a rifle for the duration of their visit and hunt with it whilst in the company of Americans? Thanks for all informed answers.
A: Polar bears are big and dangerous game, but they've just been listed as endangered ( for political reasons, not based on science) so that's out. However, the polar bear's brother, the Kodiak bear, can still be hunted, as can their brother the grizzly bear. I think these are the only game in North America that would rate as dangerous game, in the same sense that African game is dangerous. No restrictions on maximum caliber, but you won't be allowed to spell it as "calibre" in the U.S. ;-) A good guide company should be able to rent a rifle to you, or provide one as part of a hunt package, and your British firearms ticket will be an interesting conversation piece, of no practical use. You won't need it. A guide company can advise you on the legalities in detail. One place to start looking for such companies would be every American hunter's favorite store, Cabela's. Thoroughly reputable! I've given you a link to the correct page, as well as a link to the main website. Of course, you can always do a search on hunting guides, but how you'd know which were reputable or not I don't know. Another possibility is to contact some of our hunting & shooting publications. Just call them up and ask. I suspect you'd get some enthusiastic help. I've linked to one of them below for you. Enjoy your hunt, and I'll wish you an early welcome to America!