Species: Bear

Bear

There are three types of bears that exist in North America - Black Bears, Grizzly/Alaskan Brown Bears, and Polar Bears.  The only one of these species available for non-guided hunters is the Black Bear.  The other bears are amazing opportunities, but cost, logistics, and the requirement of non-residents hiring a guide makes hunts for these bears impractical for the On Your Own hunter.

Black bears are found in many states.  Almost all states, other than the Great Plains states have some sort of black bear seasons.  The most common hunting method for black bears is baiting or use of hounds.  Some states prohibit hounds and/or bait, maing spot and stalk hunting the only opportunity.

Of all big game tags, the easiest to acquire for non-residents are black bear tags.  Most states allow non-residents to purchase black bear tags, over the counter, or in drawings with generous amounts of tags for non-residents.  All states allow fall bear hunting, and some allow spring bear hunting.  In all seasons, harvest of sows is discouraged, and harvest of sows with cubs is illegal.

Black bears come in all different color phases.  Black, cinnamon, brown, blonde, and in parts of Southeast Alaska, the blue tinged Glacier Bear.  Some areas have predominantly black color phase, and other areas have no common color phase.

An adult boar is considered a trophy.  Some states have bears with genetically large skulls, the manner by which the Boone and Crockett Club scores bears for trophy entries.  Yet, some states have enormous body sized bears, with small skulls.  As such, most hunters will agree that a mature bear, regardless of skull size is a trophy.

Bear meat is amazingly good to eat.  Many find the trophy quality measured by skull size or hide quality, yet properly handled and cooked bear meat is delicious.

A Montana spring black bear in a brown color phase.