Hello Josh,
And, welcome to the best web site in the world.
I agree with Mekaniks - start out by contacting James Jeffery here within this forum.
Also, sift through the "DEALS & OFFERS" section, shown in the black background margin, near the top of the forum page.
Likewise, familiarize yourself with the "Black Bear" section of
www.adfg.alaska.gov, it is good information.
Although, I disagree with their Sketch Artist regarding what the front paw print of a black bear looks like (IMO rather, I think they show strong resemblance to a huge dog-like front paw print).
Last but not least, give Andy Hawk a call sometime (Hawk's Gunsmithing - 907-562-0881).
Andy is a very professional and talented Gunsmith, who also has himself done some big game guiding here plus, he knows many of the Guides in Alaska.
I do wish you excellent luck on your hunt.
But, be aware that doing a short-on-time black bear hunt in Alaska can be compared to doing a short-on-time leopard hunt in Africa.
Just our unpredictable weather alone can keep you hunkered down in your tent or in the nearest motel for several days that, otherwise you would've spent watching the bait.
When I was hunting here (haven't hunted anything in Alaska larger than grouse and snowshoe hare, for well over 10 years now), I found that going hunting for minimum 10 days in the bush tended to insure that weather delays and all, I would get in at the very least, 3 to 5 days actually hunting, rifle in hand, boots in the mud.
The good news for you is that presently, we are experiencing what seems to be a bumper crop of all predators, including black bears, here in much of Alaska.
In parting, beware of deals that sound too good to be true.
Most Registered Guides here are very fine people and will bust their hip-boots to get you a reasonable shot at your quarry.
However, pretty much every year, the Game Wardens arrest one or two of them, for unlawful hunting/fishing activities and/or fraud.
Cheers,
Velo Dog
