Guided vs. Unguided Hunting Trips
When you come to Alaska to hunt, you need to decide if you want a "Guided" or an "Unguided" hunt. Unguided hunts are also known as "Drop Off" hunts - or as we call them, "Do-It-Yourself" hunts. If you're an experienced hunter who hunts the lower 48's for Elk or Deer ...
Alaska might make your decision for you
The decision is made for you if you're going on an Alaska Dall Sheep hunt or hunting any kind of Alaska bear except the black bear. If you're an out-of-state hunter, Alaska law requires you to be accompanied by a guide in order to hunt any of these animals.
But if you're going Alaska caribou hunting or Alaska moose hunting you can choose which is right for you.
"Unguided" or "Drop-off" Hunting
These hunters are more experienced and are confident in their ability to to take on the challenges of the Alaskan Wilderness on their own. They can find, stalk and kill their prey, dress out the carcass according to law, care for their meat and trophy, and survive on their own.
These hunters pay for transportation into the field and out again. They rely on the transporter to deliver them to a location where the animals they are seeking will be. Obviously, the more experienced the transporter, the better the chance of a successful hunt. That's why our 25+ years of experience is so important.
"Guided" Hunting
Hunters who opt to go with a guide, will get a different experience. First off, they have the help of an experienced guide who knows the land and knows what to expect. They'll get one-on-one help to get their animal(s) with a hunter who understands the prey and how it lives. Then, the guide will help you dress out the animal and prepare your meat. If you're unsure of your survival skills or hunting ability, a guide is the perfect way to go on your first Alaska hunting adventure.
Of course, you will pay more for this individual attention.
Alaska, for all it's size, is a pretty small place when it comes to the professional hunting community. If you're looking for a great guide, we know 'em all and can help you find the right one for you. Call us or send us an email through the contact form and we'll give you some names to contact.
Advice for "drop-off" hunters
If you're planning a "drop-off hunt in Northwest Alaska our best advice is to communicate everything you want to get out of your trip. Here's why: about half of our drop offs are next to rivers. The low water during the hunting season means flat, exposed gravel river bottoms that make great runways. So, if you want to try some of our famous Alaska fishing, it would be best if you were in the half that were set down near a river. Letting us know that in advance helps us to decide where to drop you.
