Limit of Harlequins
Outdoors International TRIP #OI-AKFW2

Bering River Duck Hunt

Experience the thrill of Alaska duck hunting in one of the world’s most diverse flyways, with guaranteed opportunities for Harlequin.

Man, it felt good when that warm ocean air hit us as we stepped off the float plane in Cordova. This trip is all about experiencing one of the most diverse flyways in the world, right here at the Bering River. Over three full days, you’ll be immersed in the rhythm of the hunt, with the chance to see a myriad of duck species—Harlequin, Long-Tailed Duck, and more. The guides know their stuff, and they’ll get you on the birds, guaranteed. And hey, if you don’t get your Harlequin, the fourth day is on the house. You should get the opportunity to fire a box or two of ammo a day, so come prepared for a sore shoulder. It’s not all smooth sailing though; the weather can be a challenge, and you’ll need your rain gear and waders. But that’s hunting in Alaska for you. Whether you choose to lodge in Cordova or stay aboard the vessel, you’ll be well taken care of with meals and snacks. And if you fancy a change of pace, there’s optional winter King salmon fishing. This isn’t just a trip; it’s a genuine Alaskan adventure.
The Alaska duck hunting season runs from October through December. Expect cool, possibly wet weather, so pack accordingly.
You’ll be targeting a variety of duck species, with a special focus on Harlequin ducks. The guide guarantees the opportunity to reach your annual limit.
You’ll have three full days of duck hunting, firing over 50 rounds each day. If you don’t hit your limit, the fourth day is free.
Choose to stay aboard the vessel or in Cordova. If you stay on the vessel, all meals are included. The outfitter will help decide based on your group size and bird locations.
Fly into Cordova, AK on Flight 61 or 66 the day before. A float plane will take you to the Bering River area on Saturday morning, weather permitting.
Essentials include rain gear, waders, and ammunition. Best to check with the outfitter for a complete list before heading out.
Yes, optional King salmon fishing is available if you want a break from duck hunting.
Typical Alaskan weather—cool and possibly wet. Layer up and make sure your rain gear is in good shape.
You’ll need an Alaska Fishing License, Small Game License, and state and federal duck stamps. Make sure to arrange these before your trip.
Pricing varies depending on options and availability. It’s always best to check the trip overview or talk to your consultant directly.
Absolutely. We strongly recommend it. Click here to get a free quote and learn more.

What’s Included:

  • Lodging
  • Ground Transportation
  • Lunch, Snacks and Beverages
  • All meals if you choose to stay aboard the vessel
  • Bird Processing
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Not Included:

  • Travel to and from Alaska, and any hotels before and/or after your trip.
  • Alaska Fishing License and Small Game License.
  • State and Federal duck stamps.
  • Rain Gear or Waders
  • Ammo
  • Trip Insurance is highly recommended for a trip to Alaska.
  • Tips for your guides and staff.

Outdoors International Trip #OI-AKFW2: Bering River Duck Hunt – Alaska

Step off the float plane into the crisp ocean air of Cordova, Alaska, and prepare for one of the most immersive waterfowl hunting experiences available anywhere in North America. This trip puts you directly into the heart of one of the world’s most diverse flyways — the Bering River corridor in southcentral Alaska. If you’re serious about duck hunting, this is a destination that belongs on your list.

Overview

This is a three full-day duck hunting adventure based out of Cordova, Alaska, targeting an exceptional variety of waterfowl species in a truly wild Alaskan setting. The hunt is led by experienced guides who know these waters intimately and are committed to putting you on birds day after day. The season runs from October through December, making this an ideal late-season adventure for dedicated waterfowlers.

Target Species

The Bering River flyway hosts an impressive diversity of duck species. Your primary targets will include:

  • Harlequin Duck — the centerpiece of this hunt, with a guide guarantee that you will have the opportunity to reach your annual limit
  • Long-Tailed Duck — a prized sea duck known for its striking appearance and challenging flight patterns
  • Additional duck and geese species — the flyway regularly produces a wide mix of waterfowl throughout the season

The guide guarantee on Harlequin is a meaningful commitment: if you do not take your Harlequin, a fourth hunting day is provided at no additional charge.

Daily Hunting Schedule

Each of your three core hunting days is designed to maximize time on the water and birds in the air. Expect an active, high-volume hunt — most hunters will fire 50 or more rounds per day, so plan accordingly and come prepared for a sore shoulder. Your guide will adapt each day’s plan based on bird location, tides, and weather conditions to keep you in the best possible position.

Location & Access

The hunt takes place in the Bering River area near Cordova, Alaska, within the broader Prince William Sound region. To reach the hunting grounds:

  • Fly into Cordova, AK on Flight 61 or Flight 66 the day prior to the hunt
  • A float plane transfer will take you from Cordova to the Bering River area on the first morning of your hunt, weather permitting
  • The remote nature of this location is part of what makes the hunting so exceptional — you are reaching birds in genuinely wild, lightly pressured habitat

Lodging & Meals

Two accommodation options are available, and your outfitter will help determine the best fit based on your group size and where the birds are concentrated:

  • Aboard the vessel — stay on the water close to the action; all meals and snacks are included during your time on board
  • In Cordova — town-based lodging for those who prefer a more traditional base camp experience

Whichever option you choose, you will be well taken care of throughout the trip.

Optional King Salmon Fishing

For hunters who want to add another dimension to their Alaskan adventure, optional winter King salmon fishing is available as a break from duck hunting. This is a rare opportunity to pursue one of Alaska’s most iconic fish species in the same spectacular setting.

Weather & What to Expect

Alaska is Alaska — the weather here is a genuine part of the experience. During the October–December season, expect:

  • Cool to cold temperatures — layering is essential
  • Rain and wet conditions — quality rain gear is not optional; it is mandatory
  • Challenging but rewarding hunting conditions — the same weather that tests your resolve is what keeps birds moving through the flyway

Embrace the elements — this is authentic Alaskan hunting, and that is exactly the point.

Required Gear

Your outfitter can provide a complete, up-to-date gear list before your trip, but essential items include:

  • Quality rain gear — inspect and test it before you travel
  • Chest waders — a must for waterfowl hunting in this environment
  • Ample ammunition — plan for 50+ rounds per day across three to four hunting days
  • Warm, moisture-wicking base layers and insulating mid-layers
  • Waterproof boots and gloves

Licenses & Permits Required

Before you arrive, you will need to secure the following — your consultant can advise on where and how to obtain each:

  • Alaska Fishing License (required if participating in the optional salmon fishing)
  • Alaska Small Game License
  • Alaska State Duck Stamp
  • Federal Duck Stamp

Do not wait until the last minute — arrange all licenses and stamps well in advance of your travel dates.

Why the Bering River Flyway?

Few places on earth concentrate the variety and volume of waterfowl that move through this corner of Alaska each fall and early winter. The combination of coastal habitat, tidal influence, and the sheer remoteness of the Bering River area creates conditions that waterfowlers dream about. Your guide’s deep local knowledge of these waters — the tides, the bird patterns, the best positions — is what transforms a good hunt into an unforgettable one. This is not a manufactured experience; it is a genuine Alaskan adventure in one of the continent’s great wild places.

How to Book

Ready to experience the Bering River flyway for yourself? Talk to an Outdoors International consultant to learn more about availability, trip logistics, and how to reserve your spot on this exceptional hunt. A consultant can walk you through every detail and help ensure you arrive fully prepared.

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I didn't think an experience like this was possible.

This trip, was, for me at least not just a trip, for me it was a real adventure, a real experience. I love the wilderness and this trip afforded me the opportunity to connect with the Alaskan wilderness in ways very few people do. It was an experience I will never forgot in a place I can’t wait to get back to.

Oliver Fischer

The outfitter handled everything perfectly.

We were thankful that Outdoors International hooked us up with a great outfitter because they were able to find us an acceptable alternate on short notice. Overall the two year process to get this float in was seamless and worry free. Just like it should be.

Thank you,
Stan Masneri

What an amazing experience!

The lodge was out of this world! Our rooms, the delicious food, the incredible wildlife and the scenery were amazing. Our photo safari guide was truly exceptional and had us on animals almost constantly. We saw over 30 different species and had some incredible up close experiences. Africa is amazing!

Scott Navares