Trip #OAK1: Kodiak Island DIY, Vessel Based Sitka Blacktail Deer Hunt » Outdoors International

Hunting on Kodiak Island is a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

This remote island off the coast of Alaska is famous for its prime hunting opportunities, offering some of the best large game, waterfowl, and fishing adventures in North America. Among these, Kodiak is especially well-known for its outstanding Sitka blacktail deer hunting. Thanks to plentiful food sources and limited hunting pressure, the blacktail deer population remains healthy and abundant. Kodiak’s diverse landscape, ranging from gentle slopes and valleys to rugged peaks, allows hunters to choose how challenging they want their hunt to be. With such abundant hunting opportunities and varying terrains, Kodiak blacktail deer hunting has become a top choice for both experienced and novice hunters in Alaska.

DIY, Vessel-based Sitka Blacktail Deer Hunting on Kodiak Island in Alaska

At Outdoors International, we offer the perfect way to explore the remote wilderness of Alaska while enjoying an unforgettable hunting experience. These hunts are conducted via vessel, giving you access to a range of secluded terrains and increasing your chances of a successful hunt.

Our vessel-based hunts provide a safe and reliable means of transportation to and from the hunting grounds, along with a comfortable place to rest.

Your transporter will also take care of all your meals during the trip, so you can stay energized and focused on the hunt. Our blacktail deer hunting trips are designed to be as hassle-free as possible, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the field and explore some of Alaska’s most remote and stunning areas.

Transporter vs. Guided Sitka Blacktail Deer Hunting

Choosing a transporter for a DIY (Do-It-Yourself) hunt for Kodiak blacktail deer offers several advantages over hiring a full-fledged guide. The primary benefit is the balance between independence and logistic support; hunters can experience the thrill of the hunt and make their own decisions while still relying on the transporter for critical area access and local knowledge. This approach often results in significant cost savings since guided hunts can be substantially more expensive. Furthermore, utilizing a transporter allows for a customizable adventure, conducive to hunters who prefer solitude or a specific hunting style inaccessible in a guided group setting.

While hiring a transporter can offer a variety of benefits to hunters, it’s important to understand the legalities of their role for your hunt. Below, we dive into our role and what you can expect when hiring a transporter for your Sitka blacktail deer hunting experience.

Welcome aboard!

We are thrilled for you to experience this vessel based hunt! The majestic 65-foot
vessel was designed to make your trip with us as comfortable as possible.

With five state rooms, each boasting private bathrooms, you can enjoy a blend of
privacy and comfort during your hunt with us. The spacious deck offers ample opportunity for fishing and handling all of your wild game needs. Coupled with comfortable accommodations, the vessel ensures that your experience is nothing short of unforgettable.

Hunting with a Transporter

We want to make sure you fully understand our role, ahead of time, so you can make the right decision in choosing us for your next hunt or needing to inquire with a guide.

You WILL NOT be hunting with a guide!

Your Transporter will provide transportation services that allow you, as the hunter, to enter the field and be fully on your terms and hands on.

They are legally not allowed to enter the field with you, nor assist in any manner, including aiding in skinning. Their only role incorporates providing transportation services to and from various hunting locations, vessel based lodging, and incredible meals each and every day. They provide a safe place to land, store your meat, and have a good time with amazing company.

Read hunt reports

Not Included:

Travel expenses
Hunting licenses and tags
Guiding
Alcoholic beverages
Items of a personal nature
Hunting items (ammo, scopes, guns, game bags etc)
Airline baggage fees
Wild game processing
Fish processing
Medical evacuation insurance
Trip Insurance
Tips for the staff. While not required, it is very much appreciated, and transporters often depend on them as supplemental income. Learn how much to tip.

Travel Information

Hunters will need to fly into Anchorage and then to Kodiak.

Alaska Airlines is the flight service to and from Kodiak, Alaska. They have two flights per day into Kodiak and we recommend scheduling for the morning flight, in case weather becomes an issue.

Hotel Recommendations

Hunters will need to arrive ONE DAY PRIOR to their hunt and stay in Kodiak City. Below are the two main hotels available. Both options are in close proximity to the harbor, where we will be meeting.

Best Western

236 E Rezanof Dr, Kodiak, AK 99615
(907) 486-5712

Kodiak Compass Suites

203 Alder Way, Kodiak, AK 99615
(907) 486-1086

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typical hunt itinerary

DAY 1: DEPART KODIAK, ALASKA

Meet time: 6AM

Location: Kodiak Harbor

On day one, you’ll convene at the Kodiak harbor promptly at 6am. While the first day is primarily dedicated to travel, it is by no means short of adventure. After a brief but scenic journey we arrive at our hunting grounds, you’ll have several hours of daylight remaining. This gives you your first opportunity to acclimatize to the terrain and get a taste of what Kodiak offers.

DAY 2-7: THE KODIAK EXPERIENCE

Activities: Big Game Hunting, Fishing, Waterfowl and more..

Predominantly, your Transporter will prioritize Sitka blacktail deer hunting. However, you will have the chance to partake in guided fishing trips for halibut, salmon, and other local species. Waterfowl hunting is another activity that you can engage in, as the island’s wetlands and marshes serve as habitats for a multitude of trophy duck species. Moreover, for those interested in a cool hunting experience, fox hunting provides a unique challenge in itself. To round off the experience, crabbing offers a fun, engaging way to enjoy the island’s rich marine biodiversity.

*Please note, the itinerary remains flexible, focusing on maximizing each hunter’s experience based on their individual interests and preferences. The eight-day hunting expedition is not only about the pursuit of game, but truly an immersive experience of all that the magnificent wilderness of Kodiak Island has to offer.

DAY 8: FINAL DAY

Activities: Fishing + Return to Port

On our last day, we set out for one final chance to engage with the island’s rich marine biodiversity. Hunters will spend the first half of the day casting their lines into the cool, pristine waters, aiming to hook halibut and other local species that are abundant in these parts. We then embark on our journey back to the harbor, marking the end of our hunting expedition.

The return voyage offers one last opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of Kodiak’s rugged coastline and diverse marine life. We anticipate reaching the harbor between 3-5 pm, concluding our unforgettable hunting and fishing adventure on Kodiak Island.

Once we reach the harbor, hunters will have the opportunity to work with a local processor to have fish and deer processed, if desired. Our crew will set each hunter up with this option once we are back to port.

A True Cast and Blast Experience

Guided Fishing, Waterfowl and Crabbing…

Beyond the thrill of big game hunting, our Kodiak hunts offer hunters the unique opportunity to engage in guided deep-sea fishing, where hunters can target halibut, king salmon, lingcod and rockfish.

While on board, we will filet all fish caught. Processing of any fish that guests are taking home is NOT included in the costs of the trip. We use a local processor for this service. They will meet us at the docks once we arrive back to the Kodiak harbor.

Guided waterfowl is also available those looking to obtain trophy ducks! And let’s not forget our fresh crab night, where hunters get to harvest fresh Tanner crab for dinner!

Outfitter Gallery

Pre-Trip Preparation

Alaska blacktail deer hunting is unlike any other large game experience and we’re here to tell you that it requires physical endurance and patience.

The terrain is vastly rugged and remotely accessed. Hunters should be prepared for challenging terrain and changing weather conditions. For these reasons, we encourage hunters to ensure they are physically capable and properly prepared with appropriate gear prior to hunting Alaska, and especially for predator hunts such as bears.

Additionally, we HIGHLY recommend all hunters check in with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADFG)and ask any questions ahead of time. They are incredibly helpful with statistics for the areas you’re wanting to hunt, advising on safety precautions, and aiding in helping you to prepare overall.

We also want to take this moment to remind hunters that it’s important to always practice safe hunting techniques and follow the rules and regulations set forth by the ADFG.

For any questions you may have along the way, feel free to reach out to us directly and we can guide you to the right place for information.

When considering a hunting expedition on Kodiak Island, it’s crucial to prepare for both the opportunities and challenges posed by the island’s diverse ecosystem.

The unpredictable weather, which can range from mild to fiercely stormy, requires hunters to have appropriate and adaptable gear. It’s recommended to layer clothing for warmth and to wear water-resistant outer layers to combat any unforeseen showers.

The terrain, while picturesque, can be rugged and challenging, necessitating sturdy, waterproof footwear. It’s also imperative to be aware of the potential risks associated with the wildlife. Kodiak Island is home to the Kodiak brown bear, a species known for its size and unpredictability. Hunters should maintain a respectful distance from these animals and follow the guidance and experience of the crew on how to deal with encounters during the safety briefing.

Lastly, always ensure compliance with local hunting regulations to preserve the island’s natural resources. As with any hunting experience, careful preparation is key to ensuring a safe and rewarding adventure.

Weather Considerations

While we strive to ensure a seamless and memorable trip, the unpredictable weather of Alaska can sometimes throw a wrench in the plans. On rare occasions, inclement weather may prevent the trip from taking place or cause unexpected delays. We recommend that all guests be prepared for such contingencies.

Please note, however, that any expenses incurred due to these unforeseen delays, or expenses incurred before or after the trip, are the sole responsibility of the guests. This includes, but is not limited to, accommodation, meals, and transportation costs. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter.

Since the areas we travel to are remote and wild (that’s why we go there!), we recommend that all guests have, at minimum, medical evacuation insurance for this program. This is for the safety of all guests. We recommend that your chosen
independent insurance plan includes at least $250,000 in medical evacuation coverage.

To protect your investment and to provide peace of mind while you travel, we also strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance. Plans may cover everything from medical treatment to trip cancellations and delays and lost luggage.

Booking Information

At Outdoors International, we are dedicated to providing our clients with an unforgettable Sitka blacktail deer hunting experience. Let us take care of the details, so you can spend time being in the field and relaxing in the beauty Alaska offers. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

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.