Consider renting vehicles or skiffs for local communities as a means to keep mobile throughout the hunt
Many lodging options available, consider the time of year you will be hunting
Rubberized rain gear is a necessity
Hunters will also find a massive amount of additional recreation activities here including fishing and waterfowl hunting
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This unit is found in southeast Alaska and is more commonly known by its proper name, Prince of Wales Island. This area has historically produced some great bears but is also known for bears with badly rubbed hides. Like most of the southeastern islands, hunting tactics for bears are largely centered around skiff hunting along shores and inlets. Along with black bears, hunters will also find ample opportunities for Sitka Blacktail which can be sought after in a variety of terrain features depending on the time of year.
Deer and bear populations are great, as well as trophy potentials, on this island and hunters will generally have little trouble in locating animals. Great options for access will be found here whether hunters are utilizing boats, planes, or vehicles.
Like most of the islands in this general region, Prince of Wales features extremely dense ground cover, old-growth forest, and miles of shoreline. Along the coast, large tidal flats create excellent habitat for deer and bear where nutrient-rich plants, sedges, and marine life can be found. The mid-elevation areas of the island are generally extremely thick in vegetation and near impossible to hunt. Physically traversing through some of these areas can be a test in patience but will be necessary to reach some of the high alpine areas. Small lakes and ponds are common in muskeg areas throughout the range and can provide some relief from the vegetation when hunting animals in the transitional areas. In areas above 1,500 feet, it is common to find alpine areas where tree cover is greatly reduced and glassing and stalking opportunities are plausible. Various aged clear cuts will be found throughout the unit and generally tend to grow unbelievably thick. These areas can be impossible to navigate and will generally not be recommended for any type of hunting.
Along the coastline, large tidal flats will extend out from the tree cover and will be abundant in nutrient-rich grasses and sedges. In the lower elevations just off the coastline, hunters will commonly find ancient stands of cedar, hemlock, and Sitka Spruce growing among patches of alder, devils club, and other thick ground cover. In some of the higher elevations, the tree and ground cover will greatly reduce as smaller tree species such as Mountain Hemlock grows in abundance. In these areas, native grasses and wildflowers will also grow in high quantities.
Like most of the units in this region, access into most of these hunting areas here will generally be through the use of skiffs and chartered boats. Hunters have also had good success in renting vehicles out of Caig or Klawock and hunting the many road systems. Additionally, many hunters have rented vehicles in Ketchikan and ferried them to POW island. Flights can be chartered to reach more remote hunting areas but this island is covered in an extensive road system that will allow for more flexibility than most other units. Being flown in can, at times, be a blessing or a curse depending on game density. There are also several self-guided themed outfitters that will set hunters up with the necessary gear needed for a DIY hunt in POW. These can be an excellent option for hunters looking to experience SE Alaska hunting without handling the list of logistics that come with planning your own hunt.
Several bed and breakfast outfits can be found throughout the island and can be a great option for hunters once they've decided on a general hunt location. Many hunters will also opt to truck/primitive camp to remain mobile and cut down on additional costs. Modern lodging can be found in a few communities throughout the island and can also be a viable option.
Roughly 6,542 square miles
43% Public land
Elevations range from 0-3,500 feet
Hollis Adventure Rentals is a commonly used rental company that can fill many needs
Coffman Cove Adventures offers all the gear needed for a DIY experience as well as lodging