Self-Guided Sitka Deer & Mountain Goat Hunts
Experience Sitka black-tailed deer and mountain goat hunts on Kodiak Island from the comfort of the F/V Valiant.
Hunting on Kodiak Island
Hunting Sitka black-tailed deer and mountain goats on Kodiak Island is unlike anywhere else. Hunters choose our transporter service because the F/V Valiant provides a warm, stable home base, giving you the freedom to pursue game independently while still having comfort, safety, and support nearby. We focus on balancing challenge and comfort so you can make the most of your time in the field, whether it’s your first Kodiak hunt or you’re a seasoned visitor.
What Your Hunting Week Looks Like
Your hunting week begins with a floatplane transfer to the F/V Valiant and a vessel orientation. Weather permitting, you may even get out hunting the first afternoon. Each day is structured to keep you hunting efficiently while providing comfort and support: enjoy a hearty home-cooked breakfast, a field lunch prepared for your day in the backcountry, transport to shoreline access points via skiff, and return to the vessel in the late afternoon or evening for dinner, showers, and downtime. The schedule is flexible to match conditions while keeping you comfortable, well-fed, and ready for the challenges of Kodiak’s backcountry.
Terrain and Conditions
Kodiak Island’s landscape is rugged and ever-changing. Expect steep ridges, thick brush, wet, windy, and cold conditions. Mountain goat country is particularly challenging — icy slopes, loose rock, sudden fog, and long climbs test your stamina, focus, and footing. Proper boots, layered clothing, and physical endurance are essential for full days spent hiking, glassing, and pursuing game.
Hunting Trip Preparations
A quick overview of what you’ll need to arrange ahead of time and what to pack for your Kodiak Island hunt.
Before Your Hunt
- Arrange transportation to Kodiak City (we recommend arriving the night before your hunt)
- Purchase a current Alaska hunting license and appropriate species-specific tags ( Alaska Hunting Maps & License Information – Alaska Department of Fish and Game )
- Select your firearm (consider where you’ll be hunting when selecting)
- Make arrangements for shipping harvested game and gear back to the mainland
- We do not provide alcohol, so you must bring your own if you choose to. Please make your party aware that due to liability and safety concerns we ask that alcohol consumption be within reason and good judgement.
What to Bring
- Three to four sets of clothing suitable for wet, windy, and cold conditions
- Layered hunting clothing, light rain gear, and quality hunting boots
- Light sleeping bag and personal toiletries, including medications for 7–10 days
- Field pack, walking sticks or trekking poles, and binoculars
- Sharp hunting knife, game bags, and meat boxes (crew cannot assist with butchering, per Alaska law)
- Plenty of ammunition, light twine, gloves, and everyday shoes for wearing onboard
- Dramamine or motion sickness remedies for travel by floatplane
Plan Your Kodiak Hunt
- 1.
Choose Your Week
Scroll through the available dates and pick the week that works best for starting your Kodiak Island deer hunt, and inquire about availability. - 2.
Prep With a Quick Call
Join a short planning call where we go over travel, gear, and licenses so you’re fully prepared for your deer hunting experience. - 3.
Gear Up & Hunt
Show up prepared and begin your adventure right away. We support your day so you can focus on your Kodiak deer hunting adventures.
This was the most well-organized DIY hunt I’ve ever taken. The Valiant kept us warm, fed, and ready every day. The crew handled the logistics flawlessly so we could stay focused on the hunt. Kodiak Island Deer Hunts delivered an unforgettable experience.
Sam
— Lower 48, USAHunting FAQs
What species can I hunt on Kodiak Island?
Our transporter hunts support Sitka black-tailed deer and mountain goat hunting on Kodiak Island. These trips are designed for hunters looking for a true Alaskan experience in remote, rugged country with incredible scenery.
When is the hunting season?
Our hunts are scheduled during peak seasons for both Sitka black-tailed deer and mountain goats. We’re happy to help you choose the best timing based on the species you plan to pursue and your hunting style.
How many hunters are in each group?
Groups are limited to six hunters or fewer, ensuring personalized attention, better access to prime hunting areas, and a comfortable, friendly atmosphere aboard the F/V Valiant.
Are these hunts guided?
These are self-guided (DIY) hunts. We operate strictly as a transporter, providing lodging, meals, and daily skiff transportation, while hunters plan and execute their own hunts independently.
What licenses and tags do I need?
All hunters must have a valid Alaska hunting license and the appropriate species-specific tags before the trip. We recommend reviewing current regulations and maps through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game before arriving.
How much does a Kodiak Island hunt cost?
Pricing varies based on timing, group size, and trip details. For current rates and availability, please contact Captain Chad at (907) 252-4803 or submit a message through our contact form.
