Available Alaska Caribou Hunts --- Search HF Aventures
Caribou populations in Alaska are among the most unpredictable of any big game species. Despite close monitoring by Alaska Department of Fish and Game biologists, their cycles of rise and decline remain difficult to forecast. The state is home to 32 distinct herds of barren-ground caribou, ranging from massive migratory herds numbering in the hundreds of thousands to small, localized groups in protected regions.
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Each year, sport hunters harvest an average of about 20,000 caribou, while most additional subsistence harvest takes place during the winter months. When caribou numbers drop, non-resident hunting opportunities are often the first to be reduced in line with restrictions on subsistence harvests. Hunters planning future caribou trips should keep this in mind, as delaying a hunt could mean missing out completely if conditions tighten.
For the 2026 fall season, Alaska will offer several draw-only permit hunts available to non-residents across units 7, 14, 15, 20, and 23. Hunters who secure these permits should be prepared to hire a licensed transporter to access Alaska’s vast, remote terrain. Those applying for the guided hunt in unit 20A must have a signed guide-client agreement in place before submitting their draw application and must apply under the correct hunt code.
Currently, Huntin’ Fool Adventures does not endorse any caribou transporters, though endorsed outfitters are available for fully guided options. In most populations, horn restrictions may vary, but a few units allow two bulls. Self-guided hunters often target the Porcupine, Western Arctic, and Central Arctic herds in northern Alaska. Most of these areas are managed under general-season, over-the-counter harvest tickets, with the exception of unit 23, which is draw-only. Keep in mind that unit 23 is largely closed to non-local hunters, even if they have a draw permit. When booking a licensed transporter, hunters should thoroughly research the area, check references, and confirm logistics before placing a deposit.
For self-guided hunters, the Western Arctic, Central Arctic, and Porcupine herds in northern Alaska are popular choices. Most subunits are managed through over-the-counter permits issued as general season harvest tickets except for the draw-only hunt in unit 23. When booking a licensed transporter, it’s essential to check references and thoroughly research the area to ensure a successful experience before placing a deposit. At this time, Huntin’ Fool Adventures does not endorse any caribou hunt transporters; however, endorsed outfitters are available. Typically, the most popular caribou units allow for a harvest of one bull per regulatory year, though a handful of units allow non-residents to take two bulls per regulatory year. These include units 9D, 10 (Adak Island), 24A, 25A, 25B, 25D, 26B, and 26C, though these areas often lack accessible transporters, making logistics more challenging.
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Alaska’s application deadline is 5 P.M. (AKST) on December 15, 2025.
Our online/print magazine has everything in one location: Application info, draw details and odds, fees, hunter requirements, point structure, age restrictions, youth information, weapon restrictions, other tag opportunities, hunt planning and much more. If you would like access to all of our research join today!
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| UP-FRONT FEES | |
| Annual Hunting License | $160 |
| Application Fee (each choice) | $5 |
| LOCKING-TAG FEES (Purchase Before Hunt) | |
| Caribou Tag | $650 |
Alaska Caribou Hunting Articles from Huntin' Fool Magazine
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