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Alaska Caribou Hunting

 

Alaska Caribou Hunting

Available Alaska Caribou Hunts --- Search HF Aventures

Caribou populations in Alaska are almost as volatile as Dall sheep, making it difficult to predict their rise and fall despite extensive monitoring by biologists at the Department of Fish and Game. Alaska is home to 32 distinct herds of Barren-ground caribou, ranging from massive herds with populations in the hundreds of thousands to smaller, localized protected herds. Each season, sports hunt harvest averages roughly 20,000 caribou, while subsistence harvests typically take place more during the winter months. When caribou numbers are low, nonresident hunting opportunities are often among the first to be reduced to align with cuts in subsistence hunting. This is an important consideration for hunters planning future caribou hunts — delaying the hunt may mean missing out if restrictions tighten.

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Alaska offers seven draw-only permit hunts available to non-residents this year, covering hunts in units 7, 14, 15, 20, and 23. Hunters who secure these permits should plan on hiring a licensed transporter to navigate the challenges of Alaska’s vast, remote wilderness. If a permit holder wants to hire an outfitter for the unit 20A hunt, they must sign a guide-client agreement before applying and apply for the separate hunt code.

Self Guided DIY Alaska Caribou Hunts

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.

Alaska Caribou Draw & Season Dates

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For access to all of our research and data we've collected over the last 20+ years, then join today and access the best research tools for hunting Caribou in Alaska including 3D Maps, Draw Odds, Consultations and much more. Go on more hunts with better information!

Private Land, Semi-Guided, and Guided Caribou Hunts in Alaska

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Application Dates for Caribou in Alaska

Alaska’s application deadline is 5 P.M. (AKST) on December 15, 2023.

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!

Alaska Non-Resident Caribou Hunting Fees

2023-2024 Alaska Non-Resident Fees.
UP-FRONT FEES  
Annual Hunting License $160
Application Fee (each choice) $5
LOCKING-TAG FEES (Purchase Before Hunt)  
Caribou Tag $650
Black Bear Tag $450
Wolf Tag $60
Wolverine Tag $350

 

Alaska Caribou Hunting Articles from Huntin' Fool Magazine