Kodiak Bear Facts

The Kodiak Bear is the largest brown bear subspecies on the planet. Kodiak Bears derive their name from their home, the Kodiak islands, off the south coast of Alaska.

An average length of ten feet, and a weight of 1,500 lbs., make Kodiak bears not only some of the largest bears in existence, but also some of the biggest legal game to be found on the continent of North America. Hunting Kodiak bears is legal, as they are not listed as endagered by the US Fish and Wildlife service, or the Endangered Species program. However, hunters must have a valid Alaska hunting license, Big Game Tag Record, brown bear locking tag, and one of two permits.

All non-Alaskan residents are required to bring a guide when hunting Kodiak Bears. Hunters may only kill one bear per season, with cubs and females being off limits. Guided non-Alaskan residents currently have a 75% chance of success when hunting Kodiak Bears. There are a few services in Alaska, which sell commercial Kodiak bear hunts. More information on hunting Kodiak Bears can be found at the Alaska Deprartment of Fish & Game.