Is Drone Deer Recovery Legal in Alaska? (2026 Rules)
Not clearly. Alaska lists using any airborne or remotely controlled device to spot or locate game with a camera as an unlawful method of taking game. What it means for moose, caribou, deer, and other big game recovery.
2026-11-03
Not clearly. Alaska lists using a drone or any remotely controlled device to spot or locate game with a camera as an unlawful method of taking game. The rule applies to all game, including moose, caribou, and deer, and doesn’t specifically mention recovering a wounded or dead animal. Here’s what it says.
What Alaska’s rule says
Alaska’s list of unlawful methods of taking game (5 AAC 92.080, effective July 1, 2025) includes:
“any device that has been airborne, controlled remotely, or communicates wirelessly, and is used to spot or locate game with the use of a camera or video device”
The same rule also lists any camera or other sensory device that can send messages through wireless communication.
The rule doesn’t mention recovery or make an exception for it.
Which animals does this cover?
Alaska’s drone rule covers all game. In Alaska, that includes moose, caribou, black and brown bear, Dall sheep, mountain goat, and Sitka black-tailed deer.
The same-day airborne rule
Alaska also has a well-known rule for airplanes (5 AAC 92.085(8)): a person “who has been airborne may not take or assist in taking a big game animal” until after 3:00 a.m. the day after the flight. What it means for recovery:
- Moose, caribou, bear, sheep, and other big game: the wait applies to anyone who has flown, including anyone helping take the animal.
- Deer are exempt. The rule lists “taking deer” as an exception.
- It doesn’t mention drones. The rule refers to a person who has been airborne, aircraft, and airplanes, not unmanned aircraft. The drone rule above still applies to all game.
Finding a pilot
Drone Deer Tracker is adding pilots across the country. Check the map for the closest pilot to your hunt. Are you a thermal drone pilot in Alaska? Apply to be listed.
Other states: see drone deer recovery laws by state.
Verify before you fly
Drone rules change, and how they apply can depend on your situation. Before any drone recovery, contact the Alaska Department of Fish and Game or the Alaska Wildlife Troopers to confirm it’s allowed.
Last checked November 2026 against 5 AAC 92.080 and 5 AAC 92.085 (effective July 1, 2025). Rules can change, so check with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game before you hunt. This article is general information, not legal advice.