The Sitka blacktail deer is a defining big game species of the Kodiak Islands and an important part of Alaska’s hunting tradition. Introduced to Afognak Island in 1924, the species adapted well to the island’s rich coastal habitat. Afognak’s combination of coastline, old-growth forest, muskeg, and mountain terrain provides excellent habitat for these adaptable deer.
Throughout the fall season, hunters may encounter deer feeding along the shoreline, moving through timber, or traveling between elevations as weather and snow conditions change. Though smaller than many mainland deer species, Sitka blacktails are highly regarded for their excellent table fare and their ability to thrive in the challenging conditions of Alaska’s coastal islands. The result is a rewarding and distinctly Alaskan hunting experience in one of the species’ most celebrated ranges.
The Sitka blacktail deer hunt on Afognak Island is a true coastal hunt, centered around the shoreline, old-growth forests, and at times the upper alpine of the Kodiak Islands. During the late fall season, deer move lower as colder temperatures and snow begin to accumulate in the higher elevations, often feeding along the coastal areas and forest edges where access and visibility improve.
Hunts begin by boat, allowing guides to cover miles of coastline. Once animals are located, hunters go ashore and continue on foot.
Conditions vary throughout the season. During periods of heavier snowfall, deer may concentrate near the coast, while milder weather can keep some animals higher in the surrounding hills. It’s an active hunt that rewards patience, observation, and adaptability.
While Sitka blacktail deer are generally the primary focus of these fall hunts, Afognak Island also offers excellent waterfowl hunting, fox hunting, and fishing throughout the season.
Ducks
Harlequin duck • King eider • Bufflehead • Surf scoter • Green-winged teal • Goldeneye • Merganser • Northern pintail • Mallard • Long-tailed duck
Fox
Red • Silver • Cross
Fish
Halibut • Lingcod • Yelloweye rockfish • Black rockfish
Duration:
5-Day Fully Guided Hunt
Available Seasons:
Fall: November – December
Includes:
• Meals
• Accommodations
• Transportation during the hunt
Duration:
5-Day Unguided Hunt
Available Seasons:
Fall: November – December
Includes:
• Meals
• Accommodations
• Transportation to and from hunting locations during the hunt
Hunters may combine guided and unguided days during their stay, with final balance adjusted prior to departure.
• Deer Tag: $300 non-resident |$400 alien/international
• Alaska hunting licenses and tags
• Federal duck stamp
• Afognak State Park user fees
• Round-trip floatplane transportation from Kodiak
Final costs vary depending on hunt type, group size, and current state fees.
Floatplane transportation is typically shared between guests and arranged based on group size and payload.
Available during our summer fishing season, these trips combine guided fishing with the opportunity to pursue Sitka blacktail deer.
During this time of year, Sitka blacktail deer are typically found higher in the mountains, making for a more physically demanding hunt than the late-season coastal deer hunts of fall.
What to Expect
