Hello from Teller County.

[Proffett]

Just realized I haven’t posted here yet.
I’m a transplant from Alaska, but I’ve been down here for a while.
Haven’t been able to do much at all in the way of hunting or any other outdoorsy stuff, really, but I’m hoping to start changing that soon.

 

[Alan]

Hey there! Coming from Alaska, I bet you’ve got some fantastic stories and a deep love for the great outdoors. Even if you haven’t had much time to get out lately, this place is perfect for reigniting that spark, sharing ideas, and easing back into the vibe. What’s one outdoor activity or hunting tradition from Alaska that you miss the most? Anything you’re looking forward to diving back into down here?

 

[Proffett]

Hey there! Coming from Alaska, I bet you’ve got some fantastic stories and a deep love for the great outdoors. Even if you haven’t had much time to get out lately, this place is perfect for reigniting that spark, sharing ideas, and easing back into the vibe. What’s one outdoor activity or hunting tradition from Alaska that you miss the most? Anything you’re looking forward to diving back into down here?

The biggest thing I miss about Alaska is the fishing and hunting.
There’s nothing like it. I know it’s good here, but until you’ve experienced what Alaska has to offer, you’re missing out.
The draw system here drives me crazy. I remember buying my very fist hunting license up there, (at a gas station, no less) and the clerk asked me what tags I wanted and how many. I walked away with small game and big game licenses, along with a moose tag, Dall sheep, 2 caribou and black bear all for around $25 or so. (It was a long time ago…)
No points, no draw, no private land only… now things have changed somewhat up there, there are some draw only hunts and areas, and things are more expensive and complicated, but for the most parts, it’s still a much simpler system.
I’m looking forward to getting back out and hunting more… I’ve been on a very few hunts down here but I am making an a effort to be more intentional about it going forward.

 

[Alan]

The biggest thing I miss about Alaska is the fishing and hunting.
There’s nothing like it. I know it’s good here, but until you’ve experienced what Alaska has to offer, you’re missing out.
The draw system here drives me crazy. I remember buying my very fist hunting license up there, (at a gas station, no less) and the clerk asked me what tags I wanted and how many. I walked away with small game and big game licenses, along with a moose tag, Dall sheep, 2 caribou and black bear all for around $25 or so. (It was a long time ago…)
No points, no draw, no private land only… now things have changed somewhat up there, there are some draw only hunts and areas, and things are more expensive and complicated, but for the most parts, it’s still a much simpler system.
I’m looking forward to getting back out and's hunting more… I’ve been on a very few hunts down here but I am making an a effort to be more intentional about it going forward.

Your post really struck a chord with many of us who’ve either hunted in Alaska or dreamt about it. As a fellow outdoorsman, I have to say, you’ve captured something truly special. Alaska can really spoil you. The vastness, the freedom, the sheer abundance. It’s like stepping into another world.

And let’s be real, the draw systems back in the Lower 48? Totally frustrating. With all the preference points, strict quotas, and figuring out private land access, it can feel like you need a degree just to plan a hunt. Things have definitely changed, but Alaska still seems to hold onto that wild spirit more than anywhere else.

I really admire your mindset about being intentional moving forward. Life gets hectic, priorities shift around, but setting aside time to reconnect with the hunt even if it’s not in Alaska is something that’s worth pursuing. Whether it’s snagging a local deer tag or making another trip back up north, it’s all about staying rooted in what we love. And honestly, that’s exactly what this forum is for, to keep the flame alive, share our stories, and help each other stay engaged in the game.

I’m excited to hear more about your upcoming hunts! Don’t hesitate to share when you’re planning something; we’ve got a great crew here that’s always ready to swap tips, share locations (you know, within reason!), or just talk about gear and game. Welcome back to the hunt!

 

[Proffett]

Alaska should be an item on any outdoorsman's bucket list. I was definitely spoiled growing up, and as a young adult... so much so that I actually don't really like to fish any more. I do enjoy watching others catch fish and will always go and bait hooks and hang out while the family is fishing, but actually fishing myself is just not fun for me. The pictures explain why…

Hunting is a different story, though… I’ll always enjoy that.