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Amanda Caldwell is a Montana hunter, blogger, and real estate expert.
Who is Amanda Caldwell?
Amanda Caldwell is a well-known hunter, blogger, and agricultural specialist from southern Montana. She grew up on a ranch in the Augusta region, at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, where she became familiar with nature, animals, and hunting traditions from an early age. Thanks to this experience, Amanda has firmly tied her life to hunting, the land, and nature conservation.
Hunting in Montana: Amanda Caldwell's lifestyle
Hunting is not just a hobby for Amanda, it is her way of life. She prefers backcountry hunting in the mountains of Montana, using horses and mules to navigate inaccessible areas. This approach allows her to delve deeper into the wilderness and get a real hunting experience.
How does Amanda Caldwell prefer to hunt?
Her main style is bow hunting, which she took up in her youth. The bow became her main weapon because of its silence, accuracy, and the challenge it presents. She also uses a custom-built 6.5 PRC rifle, demonstrating her passion for firearms.
What types of hunting does Amanda prefer?
Amanda hunts:
Wapiti — her main passion and pride;
Mule deer and antelope;
Mountain goats, black bears, and other trophy animals of the region;
She plans to hunt stone sheep and caribou in the northern regions.
Where does Amanda Caldwell hunt?
Her main hunting region is the mountainous areas of Montana, especially counties with national forests and hunting grounds. She also travels to Canada and Alaska for more challenging trophies.
Popular trophies and memorable hunting moments
In 2018, Amanda went on a solo elk hunt, spending two weeks in the mountains. The shot from 5 meters was not only a hunting victory, but also a spiritual experience — in memory of her mother. This trophy remains the most meaningful to her.
Amanda Caldwell on Instagram and in the hunting community
On her Instagram page she shares:
Photos and videos from hunting trips;
Advice on equipment and weapons;
Stories from life on the ranch;
Promotion of sustainable and ethical hunting.
She collaborates with brands including Under Armour and participated in the Extreme Huntress project.
Real estate and farming
In addition to hunting, Amanda is a licensed real estate agent specializing in the sale of hunting grounds, farms, and ranches in Montana. She works under the Whitetail Properties and Montana Life Real Estate brands, combining her knowledge of land, game, and business.
Amanda Caldwell's Instagram (144k followers): @amanda_caldwell
Hunting Periods and Permits in ABISKO NATIONAL PARK: A Detailed Look at Game Movement Throughout the Year, Seasonal Limits, and How to Apply for a Hunting License in the Area
Planning your hunt in Abisko National Park? It is essential to familiarize yourself with the hunting seasons, license requirements, regulations, and the best periods for game activity in this pristine Arctic wilderness. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the hunting seasons in Abisko, details about wildlife behavior, legal restrictions, and practical advice to help you plan a successful and lawful hunting experience in this unique environment.
1. When and Where You Can Hunt in Abisko National Park
Abisko National Park, located in Swedish Lapland, offers strictly regulated hunting seasons designed to balance wildlife conservation with sustainable hunting practices. The main hunting periods generally align with Sweden’s national framework but are adjusted to accommodate the harsh Arctic conditions of the region.
The primary hunting seasons are as follows:
Large game (moose, reindeer): September through January
Small game (ptarmigan, hare): August through March
Predators (fox, wolf): Limited quotas, typically from October through February
Regional factors such as extreme winters, short autumns, and migratory patterns of animals significantly influence these dates. Unlike southern Sweden, Abisko’s shorter autumn and severe winters compress the available hunting windows. Over the years, climate shifts have caused slight adjustments to the seasons, with recent emphasis placed on protecting endangered species and maintaining ecological balance.
2. What to Hunt and When
Understanding seasonal wildlife behavior is crucial for effective hunting in Abisko. Autumn, spanning from September to November, marks the peak activity for moose and reindeer, coinciding with their rutting season when animals are more active and easier to locate. Many bird species begin migrating south during this time, reducing opportunities for bird hunting. In winter, from December through February, the focus shifts to predators such as foxes and wolves, as well as ptarmigan. Hunting ptarmigan in winter requires specialized snow camouflage, as these birds blend seamlessly into the snowy landscape. Spring, from April through July, is a closed season for most game to protect breeding animals and their offspring. Optimal hunting periods for key species include late September to early November for moose during the rut, and December through February for ptarmigan when their flocks are more visible against the snow.
While Abisko National Park itself doesn’t host large-scale hunting festivals due to its strict conservation focus, nearby regions in Swedish Lapland celebrate the start of key hunting seasons with local events. The Kiruna Hunting Fair (held every September) is the closest major gathering, featuring gear exhibitions, tracking workshops, and seminars on sustainable Arctic hunting. Smaller community events, like Jaktstart ("Hunt Opening") dinners in nearby towns, bring hunters together to share stories and prepare for the season. For international visitors, these events offer a chance to connect with local hunters, learn about Sami traditions, and get updates on regional regulations before heading into the wilderness.
3. What’s Off Limit, Rules and Exceptions in Abisko National Park
Strict regulations are in place to protect vulnerable wildlife and ensure sustainable hunting. Protected species include wolverines and lynx, which are subject to strict quotas, while all birds of prey, including eagles and hawks, are fully protected with no hunting allowed. There are also sex and age restrictions: hunting female moose with calves is prohibited, and permits for reindeer vary depending on the health and size of the local herds. Hunting is banned from April through July for most species to safeguard breeding and rearing periods. Additionally, certain zones within the park, especially near popular hiking trails and sensitive habitats, are permanently off-limits to hunting to preserve the natural environment and ensure safety for visitors.
4. Getting Your Hunting Pass, Licenses and Permits
To hunt legally in Abisko National Park, hunters need a Swedish Hunting License (Jägarexamen) and a firearm permit, with different rules for EU and non-EU applicants. Moose tags and other species permits are often given through lotteries to control populations. Key organizations for permits and guidance include the Swedish Association for Hunting and Wildlife Management, Abisko Naturturism (local guides), and the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency for protected area permits.
5. Breaking the Rules, What It’ll Cost You in Abisko National Park
Violating hunting rules in Abisko can lead to heavy fines from around €500 for minor offenses to over €10,000 for serious crimes like poaching endangered species. Equipment may be confiscated, and hunting licenses can be suspended or revoked, especially for repeat offenders. These penalties highlight the need to follow regulations to protect the ecosystem and maintain sustainable hunting.
6. Smart Hunting, Gear, Spots, and Best Times
Proper preparation and equipment are vital for a successful hunt in Abisko’s challenging environment. Winter hunts require insulated, layered clothing, snowshoes for mobility on deep snow, and high-caliber rifles capable of accurate long-range shots due to limited visibility and the vast terrain. Autumn hunts are best conducted near wetlands and along the shores of Torneträsk Lake, which serve as prime locations for moose during the rutting season. Because of the rugged and often unpredictable terrain of Abisko, hiring local guides is highly recommended. These experts possess invaluable knowledge of the landscape and wildlife behavior, significantly increasing both safety and the chances of a successful hunt.
Hunting Periods and Permits in SMÅLAND: A Detailed Look at Game Movement Throughout the Year, Seasonal Limits, and How to Apply for a Hunting License in the Area
Hunting in Småland offers diverse opportunities across different seasons, with regulated periods for various game species. Understanding the hunting calendar, regional rules, and license requirements ensures a legal and successful hunt. This article covers Småland’s hunting seasons, restrictions, best periods for game activity, and how to obtain permits.
1. Hunting Seasons and Regional Regulations in Småland
Småland’s hunting seasons are determined by Swedish environmental laws, which adjust for local wildlife behavior and conservation needs. The main hunting periods include:
Roe deer: August through January
Moose: September through January (dates vary by zone)
Wild boar: Year-round hunting allowed but with restrictions
Small game (hare, grouse): August through February
Climate and dense forests influence animal activity, leading to earlier closures during harsh winters. Småland differs from neighboring regions such as Skåne, which has longer wild boar seasons, and Västra Götaland, where moose quotas are stricter. Recent changes include adjusted moose quotas in 2023 to stabilize populations and extended wild boar hunting seasons due to overpopulation concerns.
2. Seasonal Patterns and Game Activity
The best periods for hunting in Småland align with natural animal behaviors. Moose reach their peak rutting activity in September and October, making this the prime time for moose hunting. Roe deer are most active at dawn and dusk during August and September. Grouse hunting is optimal in October and November when the birds are abundant and active.
3. Restrictions and Protected Species in Småland
Strict protections are in place to conserve vulnerable species. Wolves, lynx, and golden eagles are strictly off-limits to hunters. Temporary bans prohibit hunting during bird nesting seasons from April to June. Age and gender restrictions apply, with limits on hunting female moose and roe deer in certain zones to protect breeding populations.
4. How to Obtain a Hunting License in the Region
To hunt legally in Småland, hunters must pass the Swedish hunting exam (Jägarexamen), obtain a firearm license if using guns, and secure landowner permission. Key organizations that support hunters include the Småland Hunters’ Association, the Swedish Association for Hunting and Wildlife Management, and local wildlife management agencies, which provide guidance on regulations, training, and permit applications.
5. Penalties for Violating Hunting Periods in Småland
Illegal hunting can result in fines up to 5,000 EUR, with repeat offenders facing license revocation. These penalties emphasize the importance of compliance with hunting laws to protect wildlife and ensure sustainable hunting practices.
6. Tips for Timing, Gear, and Hunting Strategies
During winter, thermal gear is essential for hunting wild boar, especially when tracking in snowy conditions. Autumn calls and vocalization techniques are effective during the moose rut. In spring, hunting focuses primarily on permitted species such as foxes. Adapting gear and tactics to seasonal conditions enhances hunting success in Småland’s varied landscapes.
Gear Recommendations
- Clothing: Layered, waterproof gear for variable weather; camouflage matching seasonal foliage.
- Optics: Binoculars with good light transmission for dawn/dusk hunts; rangefinders for precision.
- Weapons: Bolt-action rifles for big game; shotguns with slugs for driven boar hunts.
- Accessories: Game carts for retrieval in dense forests; GPS devices to navigate Småland’s vast woodlands.
