Sitka blacktail deer are a very popular game animal in Game Management Unit 6, particularly in and around Prince William Sound. Hunters can take five deer total this year using harvest tags, but those tags must be used in sequential order. (PAUL D. ATKINS)
GMU PrOFILE
GMU 6 ‘SOUNDS’ LIKE HUNTING HAVEN and guides who operate in the area. Editor’s note: From the Alaska Panhandle to the “top of the world” in Barrow/Utqiagvik, Alaska contains 26 game management units that feature land for hunting and other outdoor activities. Our Arctic adventurer Paul Atkins is breaking down some of the units in this ongoing feature. This issue: GMU 6.
BY PAUL D. ATKINS
I
’ve never hunted Prince William Sound, but have always wanted to try. Before the pandemic I had actually booked a hunt to chase black bears and also do some fishing out of Whittier, but sadly, I had to cancel. Hopefully I can get there next spring.
COASTAL TREASURES Game Management Unit 6 is referred to as the North Gulf Coast and Prince
William Sound area. It lies north of the Gulf of Alaska and is home to legendary towns, including Cordova, Valdez and, as mentioned, Whittier to the west. While mainly known for its fishing opportunities, Unit 6 is also a prime location for hunting big game, one that is coveted by residents and nonresidents alike. Access is relatively easy along the coast, but if you want to get a little more remote, then there are many transporters
KODIAK CLONE Hunting opportunities in this unit are some of the best in the state and remind me of GMU 8 (Alaska Sporting Journal, April 2020). It is kind of like Kodiak Island, except without the required long flight to get there. However, those islands in PWS that do harbor game can only be accessed by a charter boat or seaplane. There are many to choose from, but as with all transports, you need to do your research and check availability. Game tags are somewhat easy to get with many listed as “HT,” harvest tag-only. Others do require a draw. Compared to other units, some big game seasons in Unit 6 are longer, providing
aksportingjournal.com | OCTOBER 2020
ALASKA SPORTING JOURNAL
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