Launch Your Career as an Alaskan Hunting Professional
Become a Wilderness Guide in Alaska with Alaska Bush Adventure
Do you possess a deep passion for the Alaskan wilderness and a desire for a rewarding career in the outdoors? Alaska Bush Adventures invites enthusiastic individuals to explore the fulfilling profession of an Alaskan Big Game Hunting Guide.
To learn more about this exciting opportunity in Alaska’s most remote wilderness areas, please complete our contact form. Simply check the “Become a Guide” box and share your interest in the comments. We will be in touch shortly.
We look forward to hearing from you. Alaskan Master Guides, Hugh and Ryan Krank
Guide Requirements for Hunting in Alaska
Nonresidents:
Please note: Alaska regulations require non-residents intending to hunt brown/grizzly bear, Dall sheep, or mountain goat in Alaska, it is mandatory to be personally accompanied by a licensed Alaskan Big Game Hunting Guide or a qualified Alaskan resident relative (19 years or older, within the second degree of kindred).
https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=hunting.guidereqs
Nonresident Aliens:
For non-resident aliens, a licensed Alaskan Big Game Hunting Guide is required for hunting any big game in Alaska, encompassing black bear, brown/grizzly bear, bison, caribou, Dall sheep, deer, elk, moose, mountain goat, muskox, wolf, and wolverine.
Practical Training: The Path to Guiding in Alaska
In Alaska, the traditional and highly effective way to gain the necessary skills to become a successful Big Game Hunting Professional is through practical, on-the-job training under the direct mentorship of a Licensed Alaskan Guide/Outfitter. This immersive approach provides invaluable real-world experience.
If a hands-on apprenticeship in the Alaskan wilderness appeals to you, seeking “packer” positions with outfitters is an excellent initial step. Contacting them early in the year demonstrates your commitment for the upcoming hunting seasons. This practical training offers significant advantages: unforgettable experiences, essential industry knowledge, and compensation while learning from seasoned professionals.
Becoming an Assistant Hunting Professional in Alaska
To obtain an assistant guide license in Alaska, you must meet specific criteria: be over 18 years old; accumulate 60 days of relevant hunting experience within a two-year period, including 30 days under the direct supervision of a licensed guide/outfitter; hold current first aid certification; pass required background checks; and receive a positive recommendation from an outfitter.
Advancing to a Registered Hunting Professional in Alaska
To progress to registered status, enabling you to contract directly with your own outfitting clients, you need a minimum of three years and 125 days of experience as an assistant. The process involves submitting a $200 application, successfully completing a $145 examination, and obtaining a registered license ($850 for residents, $1,700 for non-residents). Note that there is also a $400 fee for each game management unit in which you plan to operate.
What Defines an Alaska Master Hunting Guide?
Achieving Master status in Alaska signifies substantial experience and a proven history of successful guiding. Applicants must have a minimum of 15 years of experience as a registered professional and provide positive written testimonials from over 30 documented clients. The application fee is $200, and the biannual license fee is $850 for residents and $1700 for non-residents.
Thank you for your interest in pursuing a career in Alaska’s guiding industry. We encourage you to explore the rewarding opportunities within this exciting field.