Can You Hunt Brown Bears In National Parks In Alaska?

National Park vs National Preserve

Hunting brown bears in Alaska’s National Parks is strictly prohibited. However, many National Preserves managed by the National Park Service allow limited subsistence hunting for brown bears by local residents and some non-resident hunters with special permits. For example, the Gates of the Arctic National Preserve and the Noatak National Preserve allow subsistence hunting of brown bears, but only for residents of the surrounding areas and under strict guidelines.

Regulations and Permits

Alaska’s Department of Fish and Game regulates hunting in National Preserves, and permits are issued on a limited basis to ensure sustainable bear populations. Non-resident hunters must apply for a special permit through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game’s draw system. The application period typically opens in February and closes in March, with successful applicants notified by April. Permits are issued for a specific area, season, and type of bear (e.g., brown bear or grizzly bear), and hunters must comply with strict regulations and reporting requirements.