Fat Bear Week 2026 Updates
Round 1 Highlights
- Champion Alert: This year, no back-to-back champion as fishing whiz Bucky Dent knocked out last year’s winner Bear #32 (Chunk).
- Walker vs. Gully: Walker secured a win against Gully, advancing to the next round alongside other contenders like Bear #89 (Backpack) and Bear #620.
Voting Schedule Change
Due to an unprecedented turnout that crashed the voting site, Explore.org has extended voting for Round 1. Part 2 will continue on September 24 at 12 PM EDT.
Bear Matchups
1. Bear #32 (Chunk) vs. Bear #164 (Bucky Dent)
- Chunk is back, having overcome summer lows to compete again.
- Bucky Dent, known for an innovative fishing technique, has also made a name for himself in the bear community.
2. Bear #151 (Walker) vs. Bear #903 (Gully)
- Walker transitions from a chill subadult to a dominant bear, whereas Gully, son of two-time champion Grazer, has secured solid fishing spots.
3. Bear #694 vs. Bear #620
- Both subadult bears will enter Fat Bear Week for the first time, showcasing their growth and social behaviors.
4. Bear #610 vs. Bear #89 (Backpack)
- With a strong survival story, Bear #610 enters with her first litter of cubs, while Backpack has overcome significant challenges to establish himself in Brooks Falls.
Important Dates
- Voting: September 22 – September 29, 12 PM to 9 PM EDT.
- Winner Announcement: September 29.
Support the Bears
Contributions can be made to the Otis Fund, matching donations until October 3 to support bear conservation efforts.
For more details and to vote, visit Explore.org.
