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 c ompletely c onfident owf he re 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.
All this information and much more is covered in the book and DVD.
