Firearms, Weather & General Information

GENERAL INFORMATION

FALL BROWN/GRIZZLY HUNTS –  Fall brown/grizzly hunts start August 10th and can run into October, but hides are usually best after September 1st.  Most fall bear hunts occur on salmon streams at lower elevations – approximately 500-1500 feet ASL.  The first snow fall usually occurs in early to mid October with normal temperature ranges of 15 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit.  Hunts can be conducted from fly in spike camps, float trips and even small jet boats.  Hunts are conducted from base and/or spike camps with expedition type equipment. 

DALL SHEEP HUNTS - Sheep season runs from August 10th – September 20th and most hunts occur between 3000 – 6000 feet ASL.  Snow is a common occurrence by September 1st in some of the higher camps, and can even occur as early as August 10th (but usually doesn’t stick around long).  Temperatures as cool as 0 degrees Fahrenheit should be anticipated, especially in later September hunts

ITEMS TO BRING -  Include warm clothing and gear appropriate for the temperatures anticipated for the appropriate hunt and time frame, and anticipate windy conditions as well.  Gear should include a good pair of hiking boots, warm sleeping bag (holofill is recommended over down), ground pad, layers of clothing (wool and synthetic fibers are favored over cotton), good rain gear, binoculars, and any personal items.  Also bring hip boots for bear hunts along river bottoms. 

PLEASE INFORM US OF - Limitations or special needs you may have (dietary, medical, or otherwise) when booking, so we can make the necessary provisions in advance.  Clients are recommended to get a complete physical examination prior to their trip, and to bring any necessary medications.

WEATHER – Weather in Alaska varies from one extreme to the other.  I’ve seen snow in sheep country on August 10th, and I’ve seen 80 degrees Fahrenheit and the air filled with smoke from forest fires across the state.  I’ve seen ten day stretches where it never rained and ten day stretches where it never stopped.  The norm by my opinion – if there is such a thing – is near 50/50.  Come mentally prepared for whatever nature has in store, and don’t let wet weather, snow and/or clouds dampen your spirits.

FIREARMS - For brown/grizzly bears, I recommend bolt action rifles, partition type bullets of at least 180 grains, and a minimum caliber of .300 Winchester.  These also work well for sheep because bears are also found in sheep country, but lighter calibers and bullets -  in the .270 range with approximately 150 grain bullets – are adequate for sheep as well.  Sight your rifle dead on for two hundred yards and be able to place all shots at that distance in a six inch group, preferably less.  Missed shots and lost game will take away from your hunting experience! 

Knowing the stamina of Alaska game, and the terrain we hunt them in, I feel these suggestions along with patience, a positive attitude, and good physical conditioning will greatly improve your hunt in Alaska and your chances for success.