Moose season may continue triple-digit trend

The Petersburg-Wrangell area moose harvest seems set to break 100 again this year, according to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

So far 67 moose have been checked in during the first 18 days of the monthlong hunt. Petersburg ADFG wildlife

biologist Rich Lowell explained that generally the larger share of bulls are killed during the first half of the season. Over the

past eight years the final two-week average has seen around 45 moose harvested, ranging from a low of 36 to a high of 57.

The number of moose taken illegally in the district has been below average as well, usually making up around 10 percent of the total share. Six of the 67 so far have not met the criteria set by regulations, which typically results in the carcass being confiscated and a small fine levied. Of those confiscated this year, one was taken on Wrangell Island and two were on Mitkof.

The majority of moose in the district have been harvested from Kupreanof Island, with 26 so far reported. Just behind that is the count on the Stikine River with 18. Mitkof Island hunters have reported nine bulls, with three apiece from Thomas and Farragut bays, and Kuiu Island, two from Wrangell Island, two from the mainland opposite Wrangell, and one on Zarembo Island.

Continuing as it has been, this year’s harvest would continue a trend of triple-digit seasons. The three seasons since 2014 have seen total numbers exceed 100 moose, with last year’s setting a new record at 110 logged by ADFG. Since 2009 the annual average has been 92 moose.

The season wraps up on October 15. All hunting permit holders are reminded to complete and submit a report, even if they did not participate in hunting. Reports can be filed at the nearest local ADFG department office, or else online at http://hunt.alaska.gov. Failure to do so can result in ineligibility for permits next year.

The department encourages hunters who have already taken a moose but do not plan to hunt for the remainder of the season to turn in their hunt reports sooner rather than later, while the information is still fresh.