Big Game Hunting in Alaska

Alaska is known for its vast wilderness and abundant big game hunting opportunities. The state offers a diverse range of big game species, including moose, caribou, Dall sheep, brown bear, black bear, muskox, bison, blacktail deer, and mountain goat.

Applications, Draw System, and Top Hunting Areas:

Velvet Bull Elk

Learn More about Alaska’s Application Process

Learn More about Alaska’s Point System

Learn More about Alaska’s Top Hunting Areas

Big Game Species to Hunt in Alaska:

Moose Hunting:

Moose hunting is a popular activity in Alaska, with the state boasting the highest population of moose in North America. Hunting permits for moose are available through a lottery system, with different seasons and regulations for each hunting unit. The hunting season for moose typically runs from August to September.

Hunters are required to have a valid Alaska hunting license and a moose permit. Hunters are allowed to take one bull moose per permit, with different regulations for antler size and hunting methods depending on the hunting unit.

Caribou Hunting:

Caribou hunting is another popular activity in Alaska, with multiple subspecies of caribou available for hunting. Hunting permits for caribou are available through a lottery system, with different seasons and regulations for each subspecies and hunting unit. The hunting season for caribou typically runs from August to September.

Hunters are required to have a valid Alaska hunting license and a caribou permit. Hunters are allowed to take one caribou per permit, with different regulations for antler size and hunting methods depending on the subspecies and hunting unit.

Dall Sheep Hunting:

Dall sheep are a unique and sought-after species for big game hunters in Alaska. Hunting permits for Dall sheep are available through a lottery system, with limited permits issued each year. The hunting season for Dall sheep typically runs from August to September.

Hunters are required to have a valid Alaska hunting license and a Dall sheep permit. Hunters are allowed to take one Dall sheep per permit, with strict regulations on the age and gender of the sheep.

Brown and Black Bear Hunting:

Alaska is home to some of the largest brown bear and black bear populations in the world, making it a popular destination for bear hunters. Hunting permits for brown and black bear are available through a lottery system, with different seasons and regulations for each hunting unit. The hunting season for brown and black bear typically runs from April to June and September to November.

Hunters are required to have a valid Alaska hunting license and a bear permit. Hunters are allowed to take one bear per permit, with strict regulations on the age and gender of the bear.

Mountain Goat Hunting:

Mountain goat hunting is a unique and challenging experience in Alaska, with the state offering a limited number of permits each year. The hunting season for mountain goat typically runs from August to September.

Hunters are required to have a valid Alaska hunting license and a mountain goat permit. Hunters are allowed to take one mountain goat per permit, with strict regulations on the age and gender of the goat.

Bison Hunting:

Hunting bison in Alaska is a unique and challenging experience, with limited permits available each year. The hunting season for bison typically runs from August to October.

Hunters are required to have a valid Alaska hunting license and a bison permit. Hunters are allowed to take one bison per permit, with strict regulations on the age and gender of the bison.

Muskox Hunting:

Hunting muskox in Alaska is another unique and challenging experience, with limited permits available each year. The hunting season for muskox typically runs from August to October.

Hunters are required to have a valid Alaska hunting license and a muskox permit. Hunters are allowed to take one muskox per permit, with strict regulations on the age and gender of the muskox.

Blacktail Deer Hunting:

Blacktail deer hunting is a popular activity in Alaska, with the state offering a unique subspecies of the blacktail deer. Hunting permits for blacktail deer are available through a lottery system, with different seasons and regulations for each hunting unit. The hunting season for blacktail deer typically runs from August to December.

Hunters are required to have a valid Alaska hunting license and a blacktail deer permit. Hunters are allowed to take multiple blacktail deer in certain areas, with different regulations for antler size and hunting methods depending on the hunting unit.

When planning a hunting trip in Alaska, it is important to research the regulations and seasons for the specific hunting unit you are interested in. Additionally, hunters should consider the terrain and weather conditions, as hunting in Alaska can be physically demanding and very unpredictable. Overall, Alaska offers a unique and exciting hunting experience for big game hunters, with a diverse range of species and hunting opportunities.