Many Wyoming hunters look forward to the spring black bear hunting season and interest in the sport is growing. Whether you have been hunting black bears for decades or are a first-timer, the keys to a successful hunt are education, patience and preparation. Here are some of our top tips for hunters: 
  • PRACTICE: Spend time practicing with your rifle or archery equipment so you can take an accurate, clean and ethical shot.  
  • KNOW YOUR BEARS: Hunters must be able to distinguish between black bears and grizzly bears, especially if hunting in northwest Wyoming where both species live. You can test your knowledge online. 
  • INVEST TIME FOR LEARNING: Black bear hunting is not just a “grab your license and go” hunt. You should spend plenty of time in the field observing bears, watching videos, viewing photos and visiting with fellow hunters. Learn black bear feeding habitats, activity patterns and to identify tracks and scat. Game and Fish personnel can also help you to gain a better understanding of black bear ecology and management.
  • BE SELECTIVE: Many experienced black bear hunters are selective in their hunting strategies. You must be willing and able to pass on smaller black bears. Also, because we protect black bear females with young, it is imperative that hunters are sure of their target before squeezing the trigger or letting that arrow fly. It may take several years to find the right black bear for you.
  • ENJOY YOUR TIME IN THE WOODS: Enjoy your time outdoors while spring black bear hunting and make the most of it. You will see and hear many other wildlife species that will only enhance your hunt.

Last, familiarize yourself with the Wyoming black bear hunting regulations and contact your local Game and Fish office with any questions. Good luck and be safe!
Publish Date
Answered By
Brian Debolt
Job Title
Large carnivore conflict coordinator
Photo
BearSafetyDeBolt
Ask Game ID
290
Node order
24
Parent Node
1135