I am moving to Bellingham, WA by months end. I have heard thru this forum that there is a ferry that leaves Bellingham to somewhere in AK? If so, is there anything that can be hunted on a budget??? I am not sure of guide requirements. Would never be interested in big bears, which I know is a resident/guide/blood relative only kinda deal. Could one get into blacktails and black bears? What about goats? Lastly, if any of the above is a "yes", what cash would need to be laid out??

Jesse,

Yes, the Alaska Marine Highway System...

AHMS webpage

...runs a ferry up from Bellingham. You can connect to nearly all the communities in S.E. Alaska via the ferry. (actually there are several ferries in the system)

You can hunt black bear, Sitka Blacktail, and wolf on your own. Unfortunately Mt Goats require a guide for non-residents.

A 19 foot vehicle runs about $500 from Bellingham to Ketchikan and it's about $200 person. That's one way. Add in more for a cabin unless your willing to sleep in the solarium for a few days.

Good luck!