Alaska Bow Hunting: Sitka Blacktail, Moose & Bear
📅 2026 Season & License Info
Archery Season Open
August 1
Archery Season Close
September 20
Min Draw Weight
40 lbs
Resident License
$45/yr
Non-Resident License
$160/yr + tags
Top Species
Sitka Blacktail Deer, Moose, Caribou, Black Bear, Brown Bear
📍 Top Public Hunting Spots
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
Moose, Caribou, Black Bear
Spectacular wilderness hunting for multiple species. Accessible by float plane and trail.
Kodiak Island
Sitka Blacktail, Brown Bear
World-class Sitka blacktail hunting. High bear density — carry defense spray.
Chugach National Forest
Moose, Black Bear, Sitka Blacktail
America's second largest national forest. DIY opportunities abound near Anchorage.
⚖️ Alaska Archery Regulations
- •Minimum draw weight: 40 lbs for big game
- •All big game except bears and wolves require tags
- •Non-residents must hunt brown/grizzly bear with a licensed guide
- •Fluorescent orange required during firearm seasons in some units
💡 Expert Tips for Alaska
- →Alaska hunting requires serious pre-trip planning — unit regulations vary dramatically
- →Float plane access opens up wilderness areas away from road system pressure
- →Pack out capability is essential — a moose can yield 400+ lbs of meat
- →Early season (August) Sitka blacktail velvet hunting is world-class on Kodiak
🏛️ Official Wildlife Agency & Sources
Hunting seasons, tag quotas, and bag limits are established by state wildlife agencies and change annually. For official regulations, proclamations, and license purchases, consult:
Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADFG)
Official State Wildlife Agency
Status: 2026 Season Guide
Alaska Bowhunting FAQ
Can non-residents hunt moose in Alaska with a compound bow?
Yes, non-residents can hunt moose with a compound bow in Alaska with the proper non-resident license and moose tag. Non-residents do NOT need a guide for moose, caribou, and Sitka blacktail deer. However, brown/grizzly bear and Dall sheep require a licensed Alaska guide for non-residents.
What is the best unit for DIY bowhunting in Alaska?
Units 14C and 15 (Kenai Peninsula) are popular for DIY non-resident hunters due to good road access, strong moose and black bear populations, and no guide requirement. Unit 8 (Kodiak Island) is excellent for Sitka blacktail if you can afford float plane costs.