goat
Our Goat hunts take place on Kodiak Island. Mountain Goats were introduced to Kodiak in the 1960s and have thrived in their new habitat. Currently, goats are harvested at a higher rate in Kodiak than anywhere else.
Located in the middle of the Gulf of Alaska, the Kodiak Archipelago was carved out of rock during the last Ice Ages. It is a series of rugged islands, covered in dense vegetation leading to its nickname ‘Alaska’s Emerald Isle”. Fjords and mountains converge at salmon streams. High alpine meadows, razor steep ridges, and vertical cliff above the ocean are prime goat habitat.
Goat season is August 20 – October 25. Most prefer to hunt later in the season when the hides are longer. August can be a great hunt as well with better weather and less wary animals. Blacktail deer may be combined with this hunt and during the early part of the season are found in the same habitat. Tags are by drawing. Hunts are 7 days.
Hunting Methods
On a typical hunt you and your guide will be flown into the field by floatplane. All hunting is done on foot, carrying a light spike camp along with you. Those unable to carry 60-100lbs on rough terrain should arrange through their guide for an additional packer to accompany the hunt. Unlike most other hunting we do, goat hunts can be very physical with lots of climbing and hiking.
Weather
Weather during the hunting season can vary greatly. Hunters should be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions from gale force winds, rain or snow to 70F and sunshine. Average temps vary from 30F-50F. Pack accordingly. Quality lightweight gear goes a long way toward your comfort and ability to succeed.
Trophy Care, Export and Departure
Trophies will be transported from the field in the raw. Our guides are trained in trophy preservation. Because of the short duration of the hunt and the physical demand, goat hides often go unsalted until leaving the field. Arrangements will be made to ship trophies to a local taxidermist who can personally process and mount your trophy, or can expedite it to a taxidermist of your choice.
Licenses and Tags
Hunters should purchase their hunting licenses and required tags online in advance of their arrival. They can be purchased from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game at http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=huntlicense.main
Please coordinate with us to be sure proper hunting licenses and tags are secured before your trip.
Goat drawings are applied in November the year before the hunt.