The first moose of the 2020 season was reported by William Bergmann of Petersburg, here with daughter Tessa. (Photo courtesy of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game)

This fall’s moose hunting season in central Southeast Alaska is off to another strong start.

The first week of hunting saw a total of 19 bulls killed on the islands and mainland around Petersburg, Wrangell and Kake.

Hunters have recorded seven from the Stikine River near Wrangell and three from Thomas Bay on the mainland near Petersburg. Another two bulls have come from other parts of the mainland. Hunters have shot two on Mitkof Island, two from the Kake area and two from the rest of Kupreanof Island along with one on Kuiu Island.

Only bull moose are allowed with certain size and configuration for their antlers.

The month-long season started September 15 and runs through October 15. Last year’s harvest set a record with 127 bulls reported by hunters.