A Homer-based big game transporter, Travis Larson, has been sentenced to five years of probation for illegally transporting black bears in the Kenai Peninsula. According to court documents, Larson, 49, operated through his company Alaska Premier Sportfishing LLC (APS), providing transportation services for hunting and fishing trips on a vessel named Venturess.
In May 2018, Larson transported eight hunters, including four Norwegian nationals, on a black bear hunt in the Nuka Bay area. Each hunter paid $3,500 for the trip. The foreign hunters were not accompanied by a licensed guide as required by state law. On May 9 and 10 of that year, these hunters killed four black bears on lands belonging to the State of Alaska and Port Graham Corporation.
Larson pleaded guilty on October 9, 2024, to four counts of violating the Lacey Act related to unlawful wildlife transportation. He was fined $40,000 and ordered to pay $2,400 in restitution while forfeiting $150,000. His probation includes conditions prohibiting him from hunting or providing commercial game services worldwide during this period.
U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman stated: “Despite knowing and understanding all relevant regulations governing licensed transporters, Mr. Larson chose to completely disregard the law so he could make a profit.” Doug Ault from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service emphasized their commitment to enforcing wildlife laws: “The facilitation of poaching and illegal transport of black bears by the defendant...poses a threat to our country's wildlife populations.”
The case was investigated by several agencies including the National Park Service's Investigative Services Branch and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Brickey.