Bear Hunting

Black Bear Hunting

 

Population

The black bear is abundant in Alberta, with a population of over 40,000.  Consequently, it is allowed to harvest two bears on each license.  The population is dispersed from the Foothills along the fringe farmland and throughout the boreal forest in the north of the province.

 

Season

The season opens at the beginning of April, when most bears are still in hibernation, but successful hunting cannot commence until the beginning of May. The spring season closes in mid June. We can also hunt bear in combination with moose in Sept/Oct. Please inquire about license availability.

 

Hunting Methods

In most areas of Alberta, baiting for black bears is allowed, with the exception of areas inhabited by grizzly. Since our hunting area have the occasional grizzly, we can only hunt on a fair chase basis.  In early spring, after hibernation, bears wander around in search of food and by waiting, walking and patrolling areas with early vegetation, bear encounters are quite common.  Seismic lines, pipelines and south facing slopes are prime areas where bears are found.  In open country, spotting and stalking are very exciting. Recent logging has created open cut blocks with new growth and good visibility.

 

We arrange three hunts in the spring (with four hunters each) from our base camp. We hunt within approximately 15 km/10 mile from camp by going to different areas with ATV and thereafter hunt on foot.

Our hunts have proven to be a very interesting alternative for those hunters who appreciate moving around rather than sitting and waiting over bait in a tree stand.

 

The average size bear is approximately six feet but we take the occasional one over seven feet, with a couple of skulls over 20". Approx 20 % of the bears taken are NOT black, varying from light yellow to dark chocolate brown.