JUNEAU -- Brown bear hunting season in Southeast Alaska is set to open Saturday.

KINY says the opening applies to the area known as Game Management Unit 4, which encompasses Admiralty, Baranof and Chichagof islands.

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game says the season is scheduled to run through Dec. 31.

According to officials, hunters must obtain a valid hunting license and a locking big-game tag.

Hunters also must have a current registration permit, which is valid for taking one brown bear within the unit. Nonresident hunters must be accompanied by a guide.

The total limit for the hunt is 43 bears -- 35 males and eight females.