GRIZZLY HUNTING

As far as trophy hunters are concerned, brown bears and grizzlies are two different animals and this distinction is carried forward in both the Boone and Crockett and the Safari Club International records books. Each bear has different scoring standards and both organizations draw the lines on the map of Alaska to delineate the geographical boundaries of what they consider a brown bear or a grizzly. The term “Brown Bear” commonly refers to animals found in coastal areas and bears found inland and in northern habitats are called “Grizzlies.” Grizzly bears generally live in high country above timberline where they dig for roots and ground squirrels, eat berries and actively hunt caribou and other animals. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game makes no such distinction, and both bears are treated the same for regulatory purposes.

Grizzly bears vary in color from dark chocolate brown, to bold. Some regional color variations occur and are highly prized, such as the so-called “Toklat” coloration; dark legs, dark face, and lighter-colored body hair. A “silvertip” is a bear with darker underfur and bleached out guard hairs that turn nearly white at the tips. You are required to salvage both the skull and hide of any bear killed anywhere in Alaska. Hunters must leave evidence of sex attached to the bear hide until the hide has been sealed by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. This is a legal requirement. The information is used in bear research and management.

SEASONS, LOCATIONS & PERMIT INFORMATION

We conduct 10-day grizzly hunts in the Talkeetna Mountains and in western Interior Alaska. Spring bear season in the Talkeetnas in May 20th through June 10th. The fall season in the Talkeetnas is August 10th through September 20th. In western Interior Alaska, there are several hunt areas to choose from and the season dates vary. There are opportunities for other animals in both areas for additional trophy fees.