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Incredible Biodiversity

Guided Sandhill Crane Hunting in Manitoba

Sandhill crane hunting is one of Manitoba’s most unique migratory bird hunting experiences. Known for their sharp eyesight, wary behaviour, and distinctive calls, sandhill cranes offer a different challenge than traditional duck or goose hunting.

Birdtail Waterfowl offers guided sandhill crane hunts for hunters looking to experience Manitoba’s migration, open-country habitat, and world-class waterfowl opportunities with an experienced local team.

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Hunt Details

Sandhill Crane Hunting Season & Limits

  • Resident and Non-Resident (Canadian): September 1st to December 6th.
  • Foreign Resident (US Citizen / International): September 1st to December 6th.
  • Sandhill Crane limits are 5 daily and 15 in possession.
  • We hunt Sandhill cranes from mid-September until mid-October (weather dependent).
  • Legal shooting times are ½ hour before sunrise.
  • Sandhill Crane hunts are ‘morning only’ at Birdtail Waterfowl.
  • Note: Sandhill Crane hunts must be booked in advance and are a $75 additional charge per hunter.
  • Note: Please let us know if you are planning to mount one of your Sandhill Cranes. See our Taxidermy Page for more details.
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Hunt Departure

  • Guests will meet their guide at the change house.
  • Morning departures can be from 3:45 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.
  • Departure times will vary based on season and travel times (travel times average 1 hour).
  • Guides will confirm departure times before each hunt.

Hunt Logistics & Set-Up

  • Guests are transported to and from the field in crew cab trucks with enclosed trailers.
  • Hunting groups are 4 to 5 guests with one guide for the morning hunt.
  • Hunts take place in pre-scouted fields (wheat, barley, oats or peas).
  • Full body, Deception Outdoors Sandhill Crane decoys, and mobile blinds with natural cover are used.
  • We do not use coffin style layout blinds.
  • Guests help with decoy and blind set-up.
  • Guides manage the hunt and call the shots.
  • Morning hunts will usually conclude around 11:00 a.m.
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Sandhill Crane Hunting FAQs

Can you hunt sandhill cranes in Manitoba?

Yes. Sandhill cranes are listed as a migratory game bird with open seasons in Manitoba, but hunters must follow current federal and provincial regulations, including licensing, season dates, bag limits, possession limits, and any zone-specific rules. Always confirm the current year’s regulations before hunting.

What makes sandhill crane hunting different from duck or goose hunting?

Sandhill cranes are especially alert birds with strong eyesight and cautious behaviour. Crane hunting often requires careful scouting, excellent concealment, realistic decoy placement, and patience. Many hunters enjoy crane hunting because it adds a different challenge to a Manitoba waterfowl trip.

Do guided sandhill crane hunts include lodging and meals?

Birdtail Waterfowl offers guided hunting experiences with package options that may include lodging, meals, and other trip details depending on availability and the hunt being booked. Contact us to confirm what is included with your preferred dates and group size.

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