When is the best time to go?

Alaska is known as the go-to place for capturing amazing bear photos, and I've been leading photo tours and workshops there for many years. It's truly an incredible destination for bear photography.

I often get asked about the best time for bear photography in Alaska.

June
During June, the Katmai coast becomes a hub for bear activity. This period marks the peak for mating, socializing, and clam feasting. Capture mesmerizing shots of bears skillfully fishing for razor clams along the beaches during low tide. As high tides roll in, saltwater inundates intertidal meadows, drawing bears to feast on protein-rich sedges and plants.

July
July signals a transitional phase. While some bears continue to graze in the sedge meadows and fish for clams during low tide, the salmon runs, varying each year, become more reliable later in the month. This is the time when female bears, accompanied by their six-month-old cubs, emerge from their dens. July offers a captivating spectacle of bears engaging in playful activities, grazing, nursing, and coincides with the peak of the wildflower season.

August
August marks another fantastic period for bear sightings. Large bears and mother bears with cubs patrol the riverbanks, eagerly searching for spawning salmon making their way upstream from the ocean. It's an incredible scene as bears either snorkel or dive into the rivers to catch pink salmon, a crucial protein source in preparation for Alaska's harsh winters.

September
Fall colors and bears – it's a photographer's dream. September often stands out as an ideal time for photographers seeking impressive images of bears engaged in fishing, illuminated by the beautiful seasonal light. However, this time of year comes with its risks, particularly unpredictable weather. Be prepared for potential disruptions with several rainy days.

Conclusion

So, when is the best time to capture stunning bear shots in Alaska?

Well, Alaska is consistently breathtaking, offering an incredible adventure regardless of the season. The timing can vary, though. Some streams witness a brief salmon run, while others boast fish for weeks, even months.

Personally, I find mid-July through early August to be the sweet spot. During this period, you get to capture a variety of bear behaviors and, notably, witness the best moments for photographing mothers with cubs. My preference is to focus on mothers with cubs of the year (COY), a term for bears born in the current year, typically in January. By the time you spot them, they're 6-9 months old, making for some heartwarming and adorable photographic opportunities.

John Slonina is a professional nature photographer who has been leading photo tours and workshops for several years to Alaska. Bears are one of his favorite subjects to photograph.