March Moose Madness: Hunt Announced For South Of Yukon River In Unit 21D

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game opens a limited any-moose registration hunt in a portion of Unit 21D.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The Alaska Department of Fish and Game has announced an any-moose registration hunt (RM831) that will open on March 1, 2026 in the part of Unit 21D south of the south bank of the Yukon River, downstream of the up-river entrance of Kala Slough and west of Kala Creek. This area includes the Kaiyuh Flats, where the moose population has grown significantly in recent years. The hunt will run through March 15, but may be closed earlier if the quota of 25 moose, with no more than 20 cows, is met.

Why it matters

Moose populations in the Kaiyuh Flats area have increased substantially over the past decade, allowing the state to offer a limited hunting opportunity to help manage the herd. However, the quota is relatively low to ensure the population remains healthy, so the hunt is only open to Alaska residents who have not harvested a moose since July 1, 2025.

The details

The hunt area is located south of the Yukon River in Unit 21D, west of Kala Creek. Moose abundance in this region increased from an estimated 1,900-2,500 in 2011 to 4,000-4,500 by 2018, though growth has slowed in recent years. The state has set a quota of 25 moose, with no more than 20 cows, for the 15-day hunt. Hunters must report any harvested moose within 2 days, and unsuccessful hunters must report within 15 days of the season's close.

  • The hunt will open on Sunday, March 1, 2026.
  • The hunt will run through March 15, 2026, but may be closed earlier if the quota is met.

The players

Alaska Department of Fish and Game

The state agency responsible for managing Alaska's wildlife populations and hunting regulations.

Glenn Stout

The Galena Area Biologist for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

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What they’re saying

“Moose abundance increased in this area for several years, and the population can continue to support a winter harvest opportunity.”

— Glenn Stout, Galena Area Biologist (ADF&G Advisory Announcement)

“Because the harvest quota is relatively few moose, hunters are required to report harvested moose within 2 days.”

— Glenn Stout, Galena Area Biologist (ADF&G Advisory Announcement)

What’s next

The Department has established a quota of 25 moose with no more than 20 cows. If either quota is met before March 15, then the season will be closed by Emergency Order.

The takeaway

This limited moose hunt in the Kaiyuh Flats area of Unit 21D demonstrates the state's careful management of the growing moose population in the region, balancing conservation efforts with providing hunting opportunities for Alaska residents.