Deluxe Boat-Based Alaskan Brown Bear Hunt

The ABC Islands—Admiralty, Baranof, and Chichagof—are legendary among big game hunters for their incredibly dense brown bear populations. Located in the heart of Southeast Alaska, these remote islands are home to what is estimated to be the highest concentration of brown bears in the entire state, averaging nearly one bear per square mile. Baranof Island, in particular, is known not only for its bear density but also for producing mature boars with exceptional size and striking color phases. This hunt takes place on Baranof Island with an experienced outfitter who has been guiding in the region for over 25 years, offering a deep understanding of the terrain, animal behavior, and seasonal movements that consistently result in high success rates. Over the years, many hunters have had the opportunity to harvest trophy-class bears, with some measuring well over 9 feet squared.

What sets this hunt apart is the unique approach and accommodations. Rather than staying in a traditional camp, hunters are based out of either a 35-foot or 75-foot yacht, both fully equipped to serve as floating spike camps with all the comforts of home. Each vessel accommodates two hunters and two professional guides, ensuring personalized attention and a first-class experience. Towed skiffs are used daily to access prime hunting areas along the rugged coastline, allowing hunters and guides to quietly glass secluded bays, tidal flats, and meadows where bears often forage in spring. The spring hunts are particularly thrilling, as they involve cruising the remote shoreline by skiff and scanning the open country for movement. Once a bear is spotted, the real adventure begins with a calculated stalk through dense brush, tidal zones, or alpine slopes, depending on the bear’s location.

In the fall, the hunt takes on an entirely different rhythm. As salmon fill the island’s countless streams, brown bears converge on these waterways to feed heavily before winter. Hunting during this season places you in the heart of the action, often along fast-moving creeks or remote spawning beds where multiple bears may be seen in a single day. The sights, sounds, and energy of fall in Alaska—roaring streams, the thrashing of fish, the rustle of bears in the brush—create an unforgettable setting for a truly immersive wilderness experience. Whether you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime trophy or to experience the raw power and beauty of Alaska’s coastal wilderness, this hunt offers one of the most exciting and rewarding brown bear adventures in North America.

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