Your Guide to Hunting Coastal Alaska
Everything you need to prepare with confidence — packing lists, licenses, travel logistics and the wilderness know-how that makes a coastal hunt safe and rewarding.
Practical Information for Your Hunt
Remote coastal Alaska is unlike anywhere else you will hunt. This guide covers the essentials so you arrive prepared, stay comfortable and make the most of every day on the water.
What to Bring Hunting
A coastal Alaska hunt rewards thoughtful packing. You will want gear that layers, dries quickly and handles constant moisture without weighing you down.
- A soft duffel or dry bag — hard cases are difficult to store aboard
- Binoculars and, for shoreline hunting, a spotting scope
- Headlamp with spare batteries for the long northern days
- Small personal first-aid kit and any prescription medication
- Waterproof notebook and pencil, plus a camera with spare cards
Hunting Gear Checklist
Use this as a starting point and adapt it to your specific hunt. We are always happy to review your list before you travel.
- Firearm, ammunition and a soft case suitable for transport
- Field dressing kit, game bags and a pack frame or hauler
- Knee-high rubber boots and broken-in hiking boots
- Gaiters and trekking poles for steep, wet terrain
- Optics cleaning cloth and a dry storage pouch for electronics
Clothing & Rain Protection
Expect rain, wind and rapid temperature swings — sometimes all in one afternoon. A reliable layering system is the single most important piece of gear.
- Moisture-wicking base layers, plus a warm insulating mid layer
- A quiet, fully waterproof and breathable outer shell
- Spare gloves, hats and socks sealed in a dry bag
- Light, quick-drying trousers for wet shorelines and timber
- A warm hat and buff to stay comfortable in the wind
Travel Preparation
Getting to remote coastal Alaska takes planning. Book early, allow buffer days for weather and let us know your schedule well in advance.
- Travel to Homer, Alaska, then join the vessel at the harbor
- Allow extra days on each end for weather-related delays
- Coordinate firearms transport with your airline well ahead of time
- Share your itinerary and emergency contacts before departure
- Pack essentials in carry-on in case checked bags are delayed
Licenses & Permits
Alaska requires hunters to hold a valid license, and most species require harvest tickets or tags. Non-resident rules can differ from those for residents.
- Purchase a valid Alaska hunting license before you travel
- Obtain the harvest tickets or tags required for your species and area
- Familiarise yourself with bag limits and season dates for your hunt zone
- Understand sealing and reporting requirements for bears
- Ask us to clarify how transportation and accommodation differ from guide services
Safety & Wilderness Preparation
Remote coastal country is beautiful and unforgiving in equal measure. Plan for the worst, travel with the right people and keep your skills sharp.
- Practise with your rifle before the trip and know your effective range
- Carry navigation tools — maps, compass and a charged GPS device
- Respect bear country: proper storage, awareness and calm decisions
- Agree on a communication plan with the crew each morning
- Bring a personal locator or satellite messenger where appropriate
Guided vs. Unguided Hunting
Alaska offers both fully guided hunts and do-it-yourself options, and the right choice depends on your experience, goals and the species you are pursuing.
- Some species and areas legally require a licensed guide for non-residents
- Unguided hunts suit self-reliant, experienced hunters
- Our transportation and accommodation services are separate from guide services
- We can help you understand what applies to your specific hunt
- Guided arrangements can be discussed and added where required
We Are Happy to Help You Prepare
Send us your plans and questions — our crew will help you get the details right for your coastal hunt.