A Homer big game transporter has been sentenced to five years probation for illegally providing transportation services for hunters who took four black bears on the Kenai Peninsula.
Travis Larson, 49, a licensed big game transporter since 2010, operated through his company, Alaska Premier Sportfishing LLC. According to court documents, he charged clients $3,500 each for multi-day hunting trips aboard his 65-foot vessel, Venturess, using a smaller motorboat to transport hunters and their illegally taken game.
In May 2018, Larson took eight hunters, including four Norwegian nationals, on a black bear hunt in Nuka Bay. Knowing they were not U.S. residents and lacked the required licensed guide, Larson still provided transportation. Over two days, the hunters shot four black bears on both state and Alaska Native corporation land. Larson then transported the hunters and the illegally harvested bears back to Homer, where they were set to be taken out of state.
Larson pleaded guilty in October 2024 to four counts of violating the Lacey Act, which prohibits the unlawful transportation of wildlife. As part of his sentence, he must pay a $40,000 fine, $2,400 in restitution, and forfeit $150,000. Additionally, he is banned from hunting worldwide and from providing commercial big game services for the duration of his probation.
“Despite knowing and understanding the regulations, Mr. Larson chose to disregard the law for profit,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman. “This sentence should serve as a warning—if you break the rules, we will prosecute and seek criminal penalties.”
Doug Ault, Assistant Director for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, echoed that sentiment: “We will relentlessly pursue those who attempt to exploit America’s wildlife resources.”
The case was investigated by the National Park Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Brickey prosecuted the case.