Mountain goat hunting on Kodiak Island offers a unique and challenging experience in one of Alaska’s most rugged landscapes. The island is home to the Kodiak Mountain Goat, scientifically known as Oreamnos americanus, which thrives in this remote environment. These “rock goats” are the only representatives of the Rupicaprine subfamily in North America and have adapted remarkably well to Kodiak’s steep, rocky mountains, jagged peaks, and deep canyons that rise directly from sea level. This rugged terrain provides excellent escape routes and ideal grazing habitats throughout the year, contributing to a thriving goat population on the island.
Kodiak’s mountain goat hunting season runs from August 20 to October 25, with the prime period typically being mid-October, when the goats have their thickest winter coats. Hunters must apply for a hunting tag through a draw system, with applications open from November to early December. Draw odds vary each year, but most hunters secure a tag within three years, and some are successful on their first attempt. The draw results are announced in mid-February, and an Alaskan big game hunting license is required before applying.
Hunters can also consider combining their mountain goat hunt with a Sitka blacktail deer hunt. Kodiak Island is known for its trophy deer, and deer tags are available over-the-counter, making it easy to add this opportunity to a trip. However, the mountain goat tag must be drawn, whereas a deer hunt can be done any year.
Get Help with your ApplicationKodiak Island offers a true adventure for mountain goat hunters, with its breathtaking alpine scenery and challenging terrain. The rugged landscape and healthy goat population make it one of the premier locations for mountain goat hunting in North America, providing an experience that’s as rewarding as it is challenging.
At Outdoors International, we understand the importance of meticulous planning and seamless logistics for a successful and stress-free hunt. Our fully vetted outfitters will do their best to help take care of every detail, allowing you to focus on your adventure.
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You will travel to the field, where a large base camp tent will be set up. From there, the hunt begins with hikes toward prime goat habitat, carrying essential gear such as optics, a spike camp, food, and other supplies.
Physical fitness is crucial, as the alpine terrain is steep and demanding. The goats are often found in the most challenging areas, making accessing them the most difficult part of the hunt. Hunters need to be prepared for physically taxing climbs and should have confidence in their leg strength and endurance. Gear such as microspikes, crampons, and walking sticks are recommended for navigating steep slopes safely.
Patience is also essential; sometimes, a desired billy may be spotted in inaccessible areas or risky positions, requiring hunters to wait for it to move to more suitable ground. With the healthy goat population on Kodiak, opportunities are plentiful, but ethical shot placement is critical to avoid wounding the animal and losing it in the rugged terrain. Hunters should be skilled with their weapon and prepared for follow-up shots, ideally keeping distances under 350 yards.
Hunters should plan for a full seven-day hunting trip, plus travel days on each end. The journey begins with a flight to the town of Kodiak, where hunters will spend the night in a hotel before picking up their locking tag and hunting permit the next day. Afterward, the group will travel to the field, where a large base camp tent will be set up. From there, the hunt begins with hikes toward prime goat habitat, carrying essential gear such as optics, a spike camp, food, and other supplies.
Once a goat is harvested, the animal is processed, and the group will climb back to the base camp. Kodiak’s mountain goats are not only a challenging trophy but also provide excellent meat. Hunters have the option to ship the meat home or donate it locally, as goat meat is known for its quality. Trophy options include full-body mounts, half mounts, or rugs, and guides will assist in making the appropriate cuts for the desired preservation.
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Please note that reservations are not considered finalized until agreed upon deposit is received. This ensures agreed upon dates and current pricing.
Quality outfitters are in high demand so let us know right away, as some trips do book years in advance.
