An Alaska Grizzly Bear Hunt with Freelance Outdoor Adventures

Hunting Report subscriber Willie George sent us an enthusiastic report about his Alaska grizzly hunt this past June with Freelance Outdoor Adventures (907-864-0630; www.freelanceoutdooradventures.com/). Hunting with owner/guide Lance Kronberger, George took a 23 7/8 B&C bear in less than two days. The hide squared eight feet and 4½ inches. "I can't say enough good things about this outfitter. These guys are not just good outfitters, they're good people. I'd go again anytime." George tells us that Kronberger sells "an extremely honest" DVD of this hunt, which serves as a visual FAQ for potential clients. "It's not the best camera work, but that DVD made clear exactly what to expect on my hunt, recommended equipment to take, everything you need to know before you go. I had no surprises in camp. Everything was as promised." Hunts are conducted 65 miles northwest of Unalaklett, which is located in western Alaska on Norton Sound. Hunters reach the area via charted Super Cub. All gear and food is flown in. Terrain is flat to gently rolling with limited areas of brush. Camp consists of tents with cots. "It was basic but very comfortable," George says. "And the food was just great." Hunting starts while still in camp, glassing for game. "Bears were constantly moving through the area. We saw six bears my first afternoon. It was just incredible to see boars chasing sows." Despite the presence of bears, George insists that they are extremely wary of man. "They are hunted. They're definitely scared of humans. I was there at the peak of the rut, though, so we saw plenty," he says. The presence of so many active bears during the rut probably explains the absence of musk ox and caribou usually found in the area. George warns that hunters will reverse their days and nights upon arrival, as hunting is done in the evening rather than during the day. The switch can be difficult, given the sun shines almost constantly at this time of year. Cost of hunt is $14,500, plus a $585-license and airfare. In preparing this report, we talked with Kronberger, who tells us he recently purchased........(continued)