Hunting Brown Bears: Do You Need A Special License?

Permits and Licenses

To hunt brown bears in Alaska, the first step is to obtain a Special Big Game Hunting Permit from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. This permit is required in addition to a valid big game hunting license, which costs around $160 for non-residents. The permit is issued by a random drawing for a limited number of tags, and it costs a non-refundable application fee of $160 for non-residents. The drawing typically takes place in late winter or early spring, and applicants must submit their applications by the required deadline.

Tag Limitations and Harvest Regulations

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game sets strict limits on the number of brown bears that can be harvested each year, and hunters are required to adhere to a specific set of harvest regulations. For example, in areas with high bear activity, hunters may be required to use non-lethal deterrents, such as bear spray, to avoid killing bears unnecessarily. In areas with low bear activity, the harvest limit may be increased, but hunters must still follow specific regulations regarding the sex and size of bears that can be harvested.

Bear Identification and Handling

To hunt brown bears in Alaska, hunters must also demonstrate a thorough understanding of bear identification and handling. This requires attending a bear identification course, which teaches hunters how to identify bears from a distance and how to safely handle the carcass of a harvested bear. Hunters must also pass a written exam to demonstrate their knowledge of bear biology, behavior, and regulations.