Fish and Game releases mobile app into wilds

Hunters no longer need to hunt the web or search for printed copies and anglers no longer need to fish for necessary information, especially when they're in the field.

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game recently launched an app for mobile phones running on Apple or Android operating systems. It gives users instant access to their licenses, permits, tags and information like regulations and boundaries.

Since launching the app in late May, there have been 14,000 downloads of the app on the Apple platform, Deputy Commissioner Ben Mulligan said last week.

Mulligan said updates to ensure the app is running smoothly will happen periodically, depending on the input received from the users or if there's an update on mobile operating systems that require a programming fix to stay compatible.

"Some of the possible upgrades to the app are ... finishing up the sport fish regulations components of the app, allowing people to use the Apple ID to log in to the app, further enhancing the capabilities of our fishing permits on the app, and adding migratory bird and trapping regulations," Mulligan said.

There are a few things still not available on the app, he said, like receiving notifications such as emergency orders, species identification or hunter education and weapons certifications.

Though much of the information can be found on the Fish and Game website, the app gives users easier access to their personal information that might not otherwise be accessible in the field.

"With the app, you don't have to navigate around to all the different pages within our website you might want to have at your fingertips," Mulligan said. "When you have the app, your endorsements (licenses, permits, etc.) are right there for you to see."

The regulations that might be pertinent to whatever a person is hunting or fishing can be downloaded before heading into the field in case there is no cell coverage.

Mulligan said users can email their feedback to adfg.license@alaska.gov to help the agency create a better app. "We're already looking at what people are telling us to help with the app in the future."