Black Bear Hunting Safety

Safety is paramount while black bear hunting.

Black bear hunting can provide memories that can last a lifetime. But hunting black bears also can be dangerous, turning the excitement and memories into a nightmare. Following hunting regulations and using common sense can reduce your risk for injuries or death while hunting black bears.

Regulations

Hunting regulations are set by state conservation agencies to keep the hunters safe. For example, legal shooting times are enforced to allow enough sunlight to make an ethical shot. Most regulations will allow hunting from a half-hour before sunrise to a half-hour after sunset. Regulations regarding legal weapons make sure that a weapon provides enough kinetic energy to humanely kill the bear. Some states require that hunters pass a hunter education course before applying for a license. While hunting with a firearm, most states will require that hunters wear florescent orange on their body or head.

Pepper Spray

As you are hunting black bears and remaining quiet as you hike through the timber, you have the possibility of frightening a bear, resulting in an attack. If a black bear attacks, you might not be able to reach your weapon quickly enough to defend yourself. Carry a can of bear pepper spray on your hip. Bear pepper spray can be purchased at sporting goods stores, outdoor recreation stores or hunting specialty stores.

Cubs

Hunting seasons can take place when a sow is with cubs. Confronting a sow with cubs puts you in a dangerous situation as the sow might charge and attack to protect the cubs. If you come across sows and cubs, slowly move away from the area and avoid putting yourself between the sow and a cub. Most hunting regulations prevent you from shooting sows with cubs.

Food

Baiting black bears is legal in many states or Canadian provinces. This is effective because bears, by nature, are curious with a strong sense of smell. Avoid placing bait stations near houses or populated areas. Keep any food or garbage in a scent-proof and bear-proof container while camping during the hunt.

Prevention/Solution

Before heading afield to hunt black bears, always inform someone of where you are going and when you plan to return. Leave a note with a general direction of your hunting area. If something happens during the hunt, search and rescue teams will have a better chance of finding you.

References

• Outdoor: Black Bear Safety
• Minnesota Hunting and Trapping Regulations Handbook, 2009
• Bear Hunting: Hunting Safety

Resources

• Bear Hunting