British Columbia uses both General Open Seasons (GOS) and Limited Entry Hunting (LEH). Which system applies depends on the species, location, season and animal class, so hunters should research the exact opportunity and verify it against current provincial regulations.
Start with LEH vs GOS
B.C. describes two broad season systems. General Open Seasons are available to licensed hunters who meet the applicable requirements, while LEH uses a draw to limit participation in particular opportunities. Some species can be managed under either system depending on the area and season.
Research by species
Species-level research should always be narrowed to the current region, management unit, season dates and animal class before you make a hunting decision.
Regions and management units
B.C. hunting rules and opportunity data are organized geographically. HuntSmart uses region and management-unit context to help hunters move from a province-wide question to the specific areas that matter.
Use official rules for legal decisions
HuntSmart is designed to make public information easier to research and compare. The legal decision should always be made from the current provincial rules and maps. Start with the B.C. Hunting and Trapping Regulations Synopsis.
Sources & methodology
HuntSmart organizes and analyzes public hunting information to make opportunities easier to compare. It is a decision-support tool, not a substitute for the current law or official synopsis.
- B.C. Hunting and Trapping Regulations Synopsis
- B.C. Limited Entry Hunting
- B.C. hunting data and LEH draw reports
Last reviewed: October 27, 2026. Always verify current seasons, eligibility, boundaries, closures and legal requirements with the Province of British Columbia before hunting.
Research the actual opportunities
Use HuntSmart to compare hunting opportunities, maps and historical data in context.