AK Elk Hunting

Alaska Elk Season Dates 2026

Elk season in Alaska runs Aug 20 – Jan 31 across 2 GMUs.

15 Seasons3 Weapon Types

Rifle

GMUTypeDatesHarvestPressurePublic
Unit 33, Etolin Island and smaller associated islandsOct 1Oct 15
Unit 33, Zarembo IslandOct 1Oct 31
Unit 33, Etolin Island and smaller associated islandsOct 16Oct 31
Unit 88, RemainderSep 25Oct 9
Unit 88, SW Afognak IslandSep 25Oct 9
Unit 88, East Afognak IslandSep 25Oct 9
Unit 88, Raspberry IslandOct 1Oct 12
Unit 88, East Afognak IslandOct 8Oct 22
Unit 88, RemainderOct 8Oct 22
Unit 88, SW Afognak IslandOct 8Oct 22
Unit 88, Raspberry IslandOct 11Oct 22
Unit 8Nonresidents Only - 8, Raspberry IslandOct 23Nov 30

Any Legal Weapon

GMUTypeDatesHarvestPressurePublic
Unit 8GeneralAug 20Oct 25
Unit 8GeneralOct 23Jan 31

Archery

GMUTypeDatesHarvestPressurePublic
Unit 33, Etolin Island and smaller associated islandsSep 1Sep 30

Elk in Alaska: FAQ

When is elk season in Alaska?

Elk season in Alaska currently runs Aug 20 to Jan 31, across 15 season rows and 2 GMUs, split by weapon (Archery, Rifle, Any Legal Weapon).

Where is the best place to hunt elk in Alaska?

The best GMUs for elk in Alaska depend on harvest success and public-land access, both shown per GMU above. Compare units before you apply for a tag or plan your hunt.

Plan your Elk hunt in Alaska

View GMU boundaries, public land, and walk-in access areas on our interactive map.

Also see Alaska seasons, public land, and license.

Elk seasons in Alaska — offline