Dall Sheep Hunting in Alaska
Hunting for Dall sheep is a completely different experience than any other of the big game species in Alaska. Their range is typically in elevations up to 6,000 to 7,000 feet that are very difficult for humans to get to. That high degree of inaccessibility, along with their unique curved horns is what attracts most Dall sheep hunters. Rams will weigh between 150 and 250 pounds, while ewes typically weigh in at 100 to 150 pounds.
The actual elevation of a Dall sheep's habitat fluctuates based on the timberline of an area. They will typically remain in the rocky outcrops and cliffs above timberline, only coming down to find water, alt licks or food.
The best technique for hunting Dall sheep is called "spot and stalk." Hunters will either use powerful scopes and binoculars, or if lucky, perform aerial viewing form airplanes to locate a herd. The hunters than try to find a way to get to higher ground than the sheep, as the typically maintain a vigilance for predators at lower elevations. Assisting them is an excellent package of terrific eyesight, hearing, smell and ability to maneuver on the rocky conditions.
This trust in their abilities often stuns the novice sheep hunter, as the Dall won't typically head to cover until a hunter is within approximately 500 yards.
A Dall sheep hunt, once they are located, typically involves making a base camp near their range and then hiking to the herd. Their location, especially when water and food are plentiful, will not change much throughout the day. In the summer months, especially when water is scarce, their movements become a bit more predictable.
Dall sheep hunting gear is different from bear or moose, for example, do to the nature of the hunt. In addition to field dressing equipment, scopes and rifles, backpacking equipment is essential. Weather can turn at a moment's notice at these elevations, so a good tent, backpack and clothing to handle wet and cold conditions are critical. And cheap boots will leave a hunter heading back to camp with nothing more than a bad case of blisters. A typical rifle would be a 270 Winchester .30-06 rifle or a .338 Winchester Magnum, as taking a Dall sheep usually requires at least a shot of 200 yards.
RECOMMENDED DALL SHEEP HUNTING GUIDES
Alaska Big Game Safaris
P.O. Box 874271
Wasilla, Alaska 99687
(907) 355-4271
Hunt Alaska
Fairbanks, Alaska
Alaska Experience
Eagle River, Alaska
