Dwight Van Brunt with his monster 10' 10
Our Brown hunts take place in Alaska's Cold Bay and Izembek Refuge area, where we have two Federal Refuge guide concessions as well as permits to hunt on State land. Historically this is one of the very best areas for trophy Brown Bear in the world. Hunting under towering volcanoes and snow capped peaks makes for a truly memorable experience.
The Spring Brown Bear hunts runs May 10-25 of even numbered years. 2024, 2026, 2028 etc.
We run two 8-day hunts back to back. It is also possible to book the entire 16 day season.
We hunt these big brown bears by the spot and stalk method as they emerge from the den. In the spring their coats are thick with winter hair. It is common to watch big males following sows for the purpose of breeding. Long daylight hours during the Spring allow for 16-18 hour hunting days. Hunters can expect to see an average of 5-7 bears a day, in some camps even more. Although not everyone in camp will harvest a true 10 foot bear, we work hard to only harvest large mature boars over 9' squared. Clients can expect to harvest a bear in the 9' to 10 1/2' range with some bears even measuring up to 11' squared. Several bears a year will carry Boone and Crockett skulls.
There may be time and opportunity to pursue other game in this remote wilderness region. Wolves are prevalent in the area and can be hunted during your bear hunt. In our unit, no Locking Tag is required for wolves so you do not need to purchase any. There is often a good run of Steelhead Trout and Dolly Varden in nearby streams.
David River Bear Camp on a sunny day
After arriving in Anchorage, you will then need to take a commuter or charter flight into Nelson Lagoon, our closest village for a base of operations. From there you will be shuttled the 18 miles down the Bering Sea beach to our Camp, either by vehicle or airplane. Once arriving at our legendary David River Bear Camp, enjoy comfortable heated cabins situated around the kitchen and dining facilities. Share camaraderie while feasting on home cooked meals. Power and hot showers are available at the beginning and end of the hunt - all within a 35-minute flight of your spike camp in prime Brown Bear country. While base camp is plenty comfortable, it is not a Lodge. It was established as a wall tent camp in 1971 and has evolved into numerous comfortable cabins situated around our own airstrip.
After arriving you will meet the staff and move into your cabin to rearrange and pack your gear. You will then shoot your rifle to check its zero, do our necessary paperwork with the State, and then, if weather allows, fly out to your spike camp. As bad weather is a very common occurrence on the Peninsula, be prepared to possibly lose time stuck in Base Camp until weather permits us to fly you out to camp.
Baggage: You can travel to David River with your normal luggage/suitcases and these large bags can be left at in your cabin. Once in camp though, you should plan to repack your gear into small soft duffel bags that fit easily in our bush planes. Your total gear should weigh no more than 100 lbs, including rifle. Between 50 and 80 lbs is best. The scheduled flights generally charge $2+ per lb. for anything over 50 lbs. It is best to ship your heavier gear to us in advance.
A typical spike camp setup.
When weather allows, you will be loaded in one of our Bush Planes and be shuttled out to your camp. Established campsites are in key positions that have been proven over the past 50 years to produce monster bears. Premium glassing knobs are located within close walking distance to each camp location. This ensures the least amount of walking and dispersal of scent as possible. Lots of glassing, awareness of the wind, and patience are key to Spring Bear hunting. Although you may not have to walk much each day, once you and your guide find a mature boar to stalk, you may be required to cover up to a few miles in order to "cut off" and harvest your bear. Arriving in the best possible physical shape will only increase your chances of success. We recommend each hunter prepare months in advance with a workout and diet regimen to maximize your ability and chance of harvest.
Each will camp consists of two 8x8 or larger Expedition-grade dome tents: 1 for cooking & relaxing in and 1 for sleeping & gear storage. Each camp is provided with cots, sleeping pads, warm sleeping bags, a table, chairs, lantern, heater and lots of good food along with a skilled and personable guide. Satellite phones and Inreachs are in each camp and your guide is on a daily check-in schedule with the base camp. Camps can be re-supplied and even relocated if need be.
Paul Hamlin with his 10'5" Bruin with a 29 3/16" skull
You must purchase a hunting license and a Brown Bear tag with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game before arriving. Wolves are also prevalent in the area. It is no longer required to purchase a wolf tag in GMU 9D.
If time allows during your hunt you may get the opportunity to fish in the Alaska wilderness. There is no guarantee that there will be time to fish on your trip. However, if you hope to fish, a fishing license is required.
| Alaska Tag & License Fees | Non Resident | Non Resident Alien |
| Hunting License | $160 | $630 |
| Fishing License (14 Days) | $105 | $105 |
| Brown Bear/Grizzly Tag | $1,000 | $1,300 |
| Moose Tag | $800 | $1,000 |
| Caribou Tag | $650 | $850 |
| Dall Sheep Tag | $850 | $1,100 |
| Wolf Tag | $60 | $100 |
| Wolverine Tag | $350 | $500 |
| Duck & Waterfowl Stamp | $10 | $10 |
| King Salmon Stamp | $75 | $75 |
Spring Brown Bear Hunts Gallery
