Alaska’s vast wilderness and abundant wildlife make it a premier destination for big game hunters. The state’s rugged terrain and diverse ecosystems provide habitats for a wide range of sought-after species, including brown bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep. Experienced outfitters play a crucial role in guiding hunters through this challenging landscape.
Choosing the right outfitter is essential for a successful and safe hunting expedition in Alaska. These professionals offer expertise in tracking game, navigating remote areas, and complying with local regulations. They also provide necessary equipment, transportation, and accommodations tailored to the specific hunting experience. A reputable outfitter can significantly enhance the chances of a rewarding hunt while ensuring responsible and ethical practices.
1) Alaska Elite Outfitters
Alaska Elite Outfitters offers premier hunting and fishing experiences in the Alaskan wilderness. They specialize in guided moose and brown bear hunts, providing adventurers with opportunities to pursue trophy-sized game.
The outfitter’s services include fully guided 11-day moose hunts and 15-day moose/brown bear combo hunts. For those seeking a more independent experience, they also offer self-guided moose hunts.
Alaska Elite Outfitters operates in prime hunting areas, increasing the chances of successful encounters with large bulls. Their guides emphasize the importance of early morning and late evening hunts to maximize opportunities.
In addition to big game hunting, the company offers fishing packages for king and silver salmon. This diversity allows clients to experience multiple aspects of Alaska’s rich wildlife.
The outfitter’s expertise extends to navigating the challenging Alaskan terrain and weather conditions. They provide essential knowledge and support to ensure a safe and rewarding expedition.
Alaska Elite Outfitters
Address: Ekwok, Alaska
Contact: (218) 434-0068
Website: Not provided in search results
2) Hidden Alaska Guides & Outfitters
Hidden Alaska Guides & Outfitters offers adventurous hunting experiences in remote Alaskan wilderness. Led by owner Mike “Buck” Bowden, the company specializes in guiding hunts for various game including moose, sheep, and bear.
The outfitter emphasizes the untouched nature of Alaska’s backcountry, promising a challenging yet rewarding expedition. Their guides are known for their local expertise and familiarity with the terrain.
Clients have praised Hidden Alaska for successful hunts and professional service. The company takes pride in providing access to some of Alaska’s most pristine hunting grounds.
Hidden Alaska Guides & Outfitters caters to hunters seeking authentic Alaskan experiences. They offer fully outfitted and guided trips, ensuring clients are well-equipped for the rugged conditions.
The outfitter’s services include assistance with trophy care and logistics, important aspects of remote hunting expeditions. Their guides are experienced in navigating Alaska’s diverse landscapes and tracking game.
Address: Eagle River, Alaska
Contact: Not provided in search results
Website: Not provided in search results
3) Majestic Mountain Outfitters
Majestic Mountain Outfitters offers guided big game hunts in Alaska and Montana. They specialize in hunts for Dall sheep, brown bear, moose, grizzly bear, mule deer, elk, and antelope.
The company operates in two exclusive concessions within the Wrangell St. Elias Park and Preserve. This provides hunters with access to pristine wilderness areas for their expeditions.
One of their notable hunting grounds is Katmai National Park & Preserve in southern Alaska. This vast area is renowned for its Alaskan brown bears and the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes.
Majestic Mountain Outfitters prides itself on providing authentic hunting experiences. They aim to deliver what they consider a true “hunt” should be, emphasizing spot and stalk techniques in untamed wilderness.
The Chadd family runs the outfitting business. Joshua Chadd leads some of the Alaska hunts, while Jeff Chadd manages other operations.
Contact Information:
Majestic Mountain Outfitters
Address: Not provided in search results
Phone: Not provided in search results
Website: www.majesticmountainoutfitters.com
4) Wrangell Outfitters
Wrangell Outfitters offers exclusive hunting experiences in Alaska’s Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Preserve. They specialize in Dall sheep hunts, providing a classic and exclusive adventure for sportsmen.
The company holds a unique federal concession within the preserve, making them the sole outfitter permitted to conduct hunts in this specific area. This exclusivity ensures a more private and personalized hunting experience.
Wrangell Outfitters also provides moose and grizzly bear hunting trips. They utilize horses to access remote parts of the hunting grounds, adding to the nostalgic feel of a traditional Alaskan safari.
Their hunting expeditions cater to those seeking an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience. The vast, untouched landscapes of the Wrangell-St. Elias region serve as the backdrop for these adventures.
Contact Information:
Wrangell Outfitters
HC 62 Box 5219
Delta Junction, Alaska 99737
Phone: (724) 427-5350
5) Alaskan Quest Charters
Alaskan Quest Charters offers guided tours and self-guided hunts across Alaska’s wilderness. Their experienced team provides various adventure options, including customizable tours to suit individual preferences.
One of their popular offerings is the Northern Tour, a 4-day expedition that takes participants through Fairbanks, Wiseman, and Prudhoe Bay. This journey showcases the diverse landscapes of Alaska’s northern regions.
For hunting enthusiasts, Alaskan Quest specializes in fly-in moose float trips. These self-guided hunts allow hunters to experience remote areas of Alaska while pursuing trophy moose.
The company operates across multiple river systems, ensuring a wide range of hunting locations. They also offer services to transport harvested moose from the wilderness, adapting to the specific needs of each hunting party.
Pricing for self-guided moose trips typically ranges from $7,200 to $8,200 per person, with ideal group sizes of 2 to 4 hunters. Exact quotes are provided based on group requirements and specific trip details.
Contact:
Kent Kaiser
Phone: 269-362-7757
Website: [Alaskan Quest website URL not provided in search results]
6) Nushagak Guides
Nushagak Guides offers premier hunting experiences in Southwest Alaska. Led by Master Guide Brian Donovan, the outfitter specializes in trophy Alaskan brown bear and Yukon moose hunts.
The company operates in the Bristol Bay area, known for its pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife. Hunters can expect one-on-one guided expeditions, ensuring personalized attention and maximizing chances of success.
Nushagak Guides conducts spring and fall brown bear hunts. They also offer Alaskan-Yukon moose hunts for those seeking these impressive trophies.
For fishing enthusiasts, the outfitter provides king salmon fishing opportunities on the Nushagak River. This allows clients to combine hunting and fishing adventures in one trip.
The company prides itself on maintaining high success rates through hard work and ethical practices. They operate from a lakeside lodge, providing comfortable accommodations during hunts.
Nushagak Guides
POB 622, Dillingham, AK 99576
Phone: 907-843-1832
Email: donovanhunting@gmail.com
Website: Not provided in search results
7) Denali Hunt Leia Outfitters
Denali Hunt Leia Outfitters offers exceptional hunting experiences in the Alaskan wilderness. They specialize in bow hunting expeditions near Fairbanks, providing opportunities for trophy hunts in pristine natural settings.
The outfitter conducts hunts on the western slopes of the Talkeetna Mountains and the southern side of the Alaska Range. These remote locations are rich in game, enhancing the chances of a successful hunt.
Denali Hunt Leia Outfitters employs experienced guides who are familiar with the terrain and wildlife patterns. They use aerial surveys to determine the best hunting spots and limit the number of hunters each season to maintain quality.
The company offers various hunting packages, including grizzly bear and black bear hunts. They also provide combo hunts that allow hunters to pursue multiple species during a single trip.
Denali Hunt Leia Outfitters prioritizes fair chase hunting practices and emphasizes integrity in their operations. They strive to provide a high-quality, affordable guiding service for hunters seeking an authentic Alaskan adventure.
Address: [Address not provided in search results]
Contact: (907) 350-4455
Website: www.huntinalaska.com
8) Alaska Perimeter Expeditions
Alaska Perimeter Expeditions offers premier big game hunting experiences in Alaska’s wilderness. Led by Master Guide Henry D. Tiffany IV, the outfitter specializes in hunts for Alaska-Yukon moose, Alaskan brown bear, Dall sheep, and grizzly bear.
The company prides itself on providing high-quality, successful hunting adventures in some of the most beautiful and remote areas of Alaska. They cater to hunters seeking a challenging and rewarding experience in pristine environments.
Alaska Perimeter Expeditions offers both guided and filmed hunts. Their 10-day trophy Dall sheep hunts are particularly notable, providing hunters with a chance to pursue these majestic animals in their natural habitat.
The outfitter emphasizes personalized service and attention to detail. They work closely with clients to ensure each hunt meets individual expectations and goals.
Alaska Perimeter Expeditions maintains a strong commitment to conservation and ethical hunting practices. They strive to balance successful hunts with responsible wildlife management.
Contact Information:
Alaska Perimeter Expeditions
Address: Ester, Alaska
Contact: Henry Tiffany
Website: www.alaskanperimeterexpeditions.com
9) Chugach Outfitters
Chugach Outfitters specializes in hunting expeditions in Alaska’s renowned Chugach Mountains. They offer guided hunts in Units 13 and 14, known for their exceptional Dall sheep populations.
The outfitter provides 14-day, fully guided hunts with a 1:1 guide-to-client ratio. This personalized approach ensures hunters receive dedicated attention and expertise throughout their trip.
Chugach Outfitters focuses on draw hunts in the coveted 14C and 13D units. These areas are famous for producing trophy-quality Dall sheep, attracting hunters from around the world.
The company’s experienced guides are well-versed in navigating the challenging terrain of the Chugach Mountains. They assist clients in locating and pursuing prime Dall sheep targets.
Hunters interested in booking with Chugach Outfitters should inquire about the application process for draw hunts. The outfitter can provide guidance on increasing chances of securing a permit for these limited entry areas.
Contact:
Rolling Bones Outfitters
Phone: Contact for details
Website: www.rollingbonesoutfitters.com
10) Alaska Game Trails
Alaska Game Trails offers premium guided hunting experiences in the Last Frontier. They specialize in moose hunts, providing 7-10 day excursions during the prime September season.
Hunters pursuing trophy moose with Alaska Game Trails can expect impressive results. The average trophy size ranges from 55 to 60 inches, showcasing the quality of game in their hunting areas.
The outfitter provides flexible hunt durations to accommodate different preferences and schedules. This customization allows hunters to plan trips that best suit their needs and goals.
For those seeking additional challenges, Alaska Game Trails offers the opportunity to add grizzly or black bear hunts to their moose expeditions. These add-ons are available for a trophy fee.
Alaska Game Trails
Address: Not provided
Contact: Not provided
Website: Not provided
Essential Gear for Alaska Hunting
Alaska’s rugged terrain and unpredictable weather demand specialized equipment. Proper gear ensures safety, comfort, and success in the challenging wilderness.
Clothing for Harsh Weather
Layering is crucial for Alaska hunting. Start with moisture-wicking base layers to keep skin dry. Add insulating mid-layers like fleece or wool for warmth. Top with waterproof, breathable outer shells to protect against rain and wind.
Quality boots are vital. Choose insulated, waterproof options with sturdy soles for traction on varied terrain. Bring extra socks to keep feet dry.
Gloves, hats, and neck gaiters protect extremities from cold and wind. Pack rain gear, even in dry forecasts. Weather changes rapidly in Alaska.
Weapons and Tools Selection
Rifles in .30-06, .300 magnum, or .338 calibers suit most Alaskan game. Ensure your firearm is sighted in and familiar before the hunt.
Binoculars are essential for spotting game. 10×42 models balance magnification and field of view for most hunting situations.
A sturdy, large-capacity backpack (4,300 cubic inches minimum) carries gear and meat. Choose frame packs for support during long treks.
Bring a quality knife for field dressing. Include a sharpener to maintain the blade. A compact saw aids in quartering large game.
Understanding Alaska’s Hunting Regulations
Alaska’s hunting regulations are designed to protect wildlife populations and ensure sustainable hunting practices. These rules cover licensing requirements, bag limits, hunting seasons, and area-specific restrictions.
Licenses and Permits
All hunters in Alaska must obtain a valid hunting license before pursuing game. Residents aged 18-59 need an annual hunting license, while non-residents require a non-resident hunting license. Specific tags or permits are necessary for certain species like caribou, moose, and brown bears.
Youth hunters aged 10-17 can participate with a low-cost license. Senior residents 60 and older are eligible for free hunting licenses. Hunters must carry their licenses and any required permits while in the field.
Some hunts, particularly for big game species, require additional permits obtained through drawings or registration. These special permits often have application deadlines months in advance of the hunting season.
Seasonal Hunting Restrictions
Alaska’s hunting seasons vary by species, region, and hunting method. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game publishes annual regulation booklets detailing these seasons. For example, moose hunting seasons typically run from late August to late September in many areas.
Bag limits restrict the number of animals a hunter can harvest. These limits can change annually based on population assessments. Some regions have sex-specific restrictions, allowing only the taking of males during certain periods to protect breeding populations.
Hunters must be aware of closed areas and refuges where hunting is prohibited. Special regulations may apply in national parks and preserves. It’s crucial to check current regulations for each specific hunting area and target species before planning a trip.