Aside from salmon or halibut fishing, the Alaska Black Bear brings many visitors to Alaska. It’s no surprise, as you can find black bears in most of the forest areas in the state. They can be seen from sea to alpine level, depending on the season. If you’re interested in Alaska black bear hunting, you can start by securing your place at Island Point Lodge. Before you start your bear hunting, you must know the basics about the animal. If you’re a newbie, an Alaska wildlife guide may be necessary.
What Should You Know About the Alaska Black Bear?
The Alaska black bear, which goes by the scientific name Ursus americanus, is the most common and smallest of all the three species of North American bears in Alaska. Don’t be fooled by its name; its color sometimes ranges from jet black to white. You may come across some with brown or cinnamon color too. The bluish-colored bears are glacier bears. While bear hunting in Petersburg, Alaska, you may see some black bears with brown muzzles or white patches on their chest.
Compared to the other species, black bears are overall small, with taller ears and a straight facial profile. They also have a phenomenal sense of smell and usually travel in family groups as cubs until two years old.
When is the Mating Season of the Black Bear?
Black bears are solitary unless it’s their mating season. This usually runs from June to August; they spend their winter hibernating in their dens. Therefore, the best time to see them, which also collides with most Alaska wildlife tours, is spring, which is when they come out of hibernation and are lean with thick furs. You’d typically find them on the beaches with spring grasses and clams waiting for the sun to warm them up.
If going bear hunting for the first time, it’s best to go with an experienced guide. They will direct you to the best places to see the black bears and ensure you have your licenses. However, if you’re more experienced, you may not need Alaska-guided hunts or Alaska wild guides.
Book For Your Next Alaska Black Bear Hunting
You can’t afford to miss out on Alaska bear hunting. Island Point Lodge offers a combination of black bear hunting and halibut fishing packages for a more enjoyable time. Check availability online and reserve a spot for 2023 trips. For more information about your next bear hunting and about an Alaska hunting guide, please visit us online or call 800-352-4522.