Hunting Black Bears
Licensing
One also must be aware of applicable gaming laws, and an appropriate gaming license must be obtained before going black bear hunting. A hunter must ensure that no breach of law occurs, or it can land him in trouble. For example, shooting a female bear with cubs is
illegal. It is essential to check the laws and regulations before proceeding with the hunt. When in doubt, check with any outfitter or game warden to get the right answers.
The spring black bear season is usually from April to the end of June. The fall season is through September and October. However, there can be a few days variance between different states and provinces.
Bear hunting licenses, like all other gaming licenses, are issued through agents located inside every state and province. Many states have introduced an online system for applying for a hunting license through the state’s fish and gaming department. This has greatly simplified matters. It is also possible to apply for licenses to the state’s gaming department through fax or mail order.
Tips on Bear Hunting
Tip: When spotting a sow with cubs, leave them alone as the mother can get aggressive if you get too close or if she feels the cubs are in danger.
Tip: In the spring, black bears will eat grass in damp areas and along old forest service roads.
Tip: How to spot a mature bear:
- Ears – They will appear to be small and on the side of the head (small bears appear to have big ears on the top of the head).
- Walk – They will have a rolling, slow, deliberate step.
- Head – They will have a round head.
Tip: To avoid detection of scent, always move down wind of the bear you are stalking. Bears have a keen sense of smell and will leave immediately if they sense something is wrong.
Tip: When shooting up a tree, do not aim for the yardage following line of sight. Use the actual distance of you from the tree.
Tip: To make an effective kill shot, always anticipate the path of the arrow after it hits the target. This will ensure you send the arrow through the vital area even though the animal may be quartering away.
Tip: Only shoot when you are relaxed and completely confident the arrow or bullet will hit. Do not shoot out of your effective range.
Tip: Look for bear droppings, claw prints, and scratching posts for good bear hunting spots.
