Questions & Answers

What kind of shape do I need to be in?

The best shape possible. You do not need to be a marathon runner but you need to be able to walk up to 3 miles in ankle fit hip boots when it is required. We are often glassing areas 1 to 2 miles away. If a bear is located, that you want, we need to be able to get close enough for a shot. The only time when this is critical is right before dark when there may not be enough time to poke along. If a bear is traveling and we are trying to cut him off we must move rapidly. Most of our spike camps are within 1 mile of a good lookout point.
To get in shape, I recommend climbing stairs or hills. If you have a pack frame put it on and start climbing. After a couple of days add a couple of gallon milk jugs full of water. Climb the hills or stairs and when you get to the top you can dump the water. Coming down hills or stairs with lots of weight in your pack is very hard on your knees. Work your way up to where you can climb with 5 gallons of water or 35 pounds. That is more weight than you need but it will make carrying 20 pounds during your hunt a breeze.

Should I bring binoculars?

Yes, bring the best binoculars that you have or can afford. You will find this is the key to success in most of the hunting you will do.  Many guides will be carrying 10X40 Zeiss, Leica, or Swarovski binoculars. Any good 8X30 or 10X40 will be a big advantage to you during the hunt. Many clients are excellent spotters. We’ll be setting for hours looking through our binoculars. Just make sure they are waterproof! Believe me, Alaska weather will test your gear.

What kind of pack should I bring?

You should bring at least a very large good day pack with a hip belt. Better yet would be a framed pack with a good hip belt. You will be carrying your camera, extra shells, rain gear, a jacket, your lunch and snacks, plus your water bottle. Then add about 5 pounds of misc. stuff you will probably never use but like to carry just in case

What caliber do you recommend?

Good question! My Idea of caliber is a little different then the average outfitter. Most of my counter parts will tell you to bring a 338 or a 375. I carry a 375 because I might need the extra power to stop a charge or prevent a bear from getting into the brush. I would rather have you carry a rifle that you know, that you are comfortable with, and that you shoot well. It should be at least a 30-06 or bigger. Every animal will die if you collapse his lungs. A well placed shot will serve you the best.

Do I need any permits to carry my rifle into the United States?

If you are not a citizen or legal resident of the United States you will be required to have a permit to import firearms or ammunition into the United States. ATF Form 6 is available at www.atf.treas.gov.com  along with instructions and information for completing the form. You are also required to have a current Alaska Hunting License when you apply for this permit. For assistance in filling out this form or obtaining a current Alaska State Hunting License please contact us at our e-mail address. 

What happens if I cancel my hunt?

When you send a deposit you are giving a guarantee that you will come to hunt with me. When I accept your deposit I am giving a guarantee that I will hold a space for you. As a result, if you must cancel your hunt your deposit will be forfeited. In some cases an exception will be made if you find an acceptable hunter to replace yourself. In this case, your deposit will be refunded immediately upon receipt of a deposit from the substitute hunter. 

Is food and lodging handled separately?

No, food and lodging is included in the total cost of the hunt.

What are your space and weight restrictions on the gear we can bring?

Each person is allowed space for 1 duffle bag and gun that weighs less than 60 pounds. There are no exceptions.

What kind of sleeping bag do I need?

You do need to bring a good sleeping bag filled only with synthetic fibers. The bag should be able to keep you warm down to 20 degrees. You should bring a light insulated pad with your bag.

Do I need a camera?

Yes, you should bring a camera and extra film to take pictures of your Alaskan Hunting Adventure.  I recommend a small waterproof digital camera. A built in telephoto lens is nice and bring at least one extra set of batteries. Each guide carries a digital camera. We’ll be happy to send you a complete set of photos after the season is finished. The one comment I get often is “I wish I had taken more pictures”. Alaska is a cameraman’s dream come true.

What safety procedures do you provide on the boat and in the hunting camps?

All of our professional licensed guides have received instructions in first aid and are certified to provide CPR and advanced first aid care. A first aid kit is available in every camp. Each guide also has a satellite SPOT unit that can summon immediate evacuation in case of life threatening emergencies. Hand held radios are used to communicate with the base camp, boat, or the airplane that checks on each camp every several days. There are medical facilities within a two hour flight in case of serious accidents.