Southeast Alaska’s remote location offers hunting opportunities in the Tongass National Forest for coastal brown bear, Sitka black-tailed deer, mountain goat, black bear, moose, wolf, small game, and waterfowl in a wilderness setting unlike any other place on earth.

Here in Southeast Alaska, big game guides operate under special use permits that allow them to hunt specific species on U.S. Forest Service land, with a designated number of hunts allocated per guide. Non-resident hunters must adhere to Alaska’s hunting regulations, which require them to be accompanied by an Alaska State Registered Big Game Guide for certain species, such as brown bear and mountain goat.

Non-residents can apply for a lottery drawing through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for black bear permits, or they can hunt moose, wolf, and Sitka black-tailed deer with over-the-counter tags and harvest tickets.

Most hunting in this region is done from the water, either on a personal boat or a hired vessel. This provides access to the many bays, inlets, and remote shorelines that define Southeast Alaska. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, fly-in backpacking hunts are available in the alpine lake regions, though these rugged expeditions require plenty of experience.

For a list of hunting regulations, areas and other detailed hunting information, please contact the Alaska Department of Fish & Game, 304 Lake Street, Room 103, Sitka, AK 99835.