Maine hasn’t had a spring bear hunting season since the early 1980s, but interest remains high among both resident and non-resident hunters. Attempts to restore a season have failed, but spring hunts are still available elsewhere.
Eight U.S. states and nearly every Canadian province and territory offer spring bear hunting, and limited opportunities exist on tribal lands in Maine.
It’s still February, the dead of winter, but now is the time to plan and book a spring hunt. Many sporting and outdoor shows happen this month and next, where outfitters are looking to fill available dates. Some hunters book the same week every year. Waiting too long can mean missing prime dates, so early planning is key.
I’ve been hunting spring bears for decades. I killed my first on the side of Coburn Mountain south of Jackman in the mid-1970s when Maine still had a spring season. Since then, I’ve hunted spring bears in Alaska, most Canadian provinces from Newfoundland to the Yukon, and several western U.S. states. I try to plan a hunt every spring or at least every other. Every hunt has its own challenges, surprises and lessons, and each spring I look forward to new adventures. Here are some of my favorites.
Idaho
Of the western states with a spring bear season, Idaho is my favorite. I’ve hunted there at least half a dozen times in the northern national forests. The scenery is stunning, and with a population of 20,000 to 30,000 bears, it’s not unusual to see multiple bears each day.
The spring season typically runs mid-April through late June depending on the unit. Over-the-counter licenses are available and affordable, some units have a two-bear limit, and brown and blonde color-phase bears are possible. Most spring bear hunts are conducted over bait, but for the physically fit, Idaho is one of the few western states where bears are also hunted with hounds.
Montana
Western Montana rivals Idaho in breathtaking scenery, but you’ll work harder to kill spring bears there. Baiting is prohibited, so most hunting is spot-and-stalk, though some outfitters use calling techniques to draw bears closer. The bear population is smaller, about 13,000 to 17,000.
Bears emerge from hibernation in April and May, heading to south-facing slopes to feed on early green growth. The spring season runs into June, and licenses are available over the counter. Montana offers a rugged, challenging experience for hunters who enjoy tracking and observing bear behavior in wild, remote terrain.
Alberta
Some of the best spring bear hunting is found north of the border, and Canada has always been a favorite spring hunting destination, with Alberta topping the list. With close to 40,000 bears, one of the largest populations in Canada, Alberta has lots of bears, including a fair percentage of color-phase animals. Most areas have a two-bear limit. Spring hunts are conducted over bait, and licenses and guided hunts are affordable. The spring season runs from early May through most of June.
New Brunswick
I’ve had some wonderful and memorable spring bear hunts in other provinces, including Manitoba, the Yukon and Quebec, but I particularly like New Brunswick. My wife, Diane, shot her first bear there, and she’s been hooked on the province and bear hunting ever since. I like it for several reasons.
For one, it’s just across the border and easy to get to. From just about anywhere in Maine, hunters can leave home in the morning and be on a stand or in a blind that afternoon. In several ways, New Brunswick also reminds me of Maine. The bear woods look similar, as do the lakes, rivers, hills and towns. You could be anywhere across the border and think you’re still in Maine. It’s no wonder I feel at home there.
New Brunswick also has a sizable bear population of 18,000 to 20,000, which means the chances of seeing bears and having a shot opportunity are quite good. Spring hunts are typically conducted over bait. Non-resident bear licenses are generally available through outfitters and often included in the cost of the hunt, but not always, so check ahead. If hunters tag out early, a second bear option may be available with the purchase of an additional license. The spring season opens in late April and runs through June.
Newfoundland
If given a choice, I prefer to hunt in Newfoundland. The island has about 10,000 bears, but they are known for their size, likely due to isolation and low hunting pressure. I’ve seen some big bears taken there.
Spring hunts are comparable in price to spring hunts in the western provinces. Hunting licenses are available through licensed outfitters and are generally included in the price of the hunt. The season opens May 1 and runs into July.
Plus, the drive through New Brunswick and Nova Scotia and the overnight ferry ride to the island is an adventure in itself. I have made the trip several times and it is a fun part of the trip.
Maine
Although there is no statewide spring bear season, hunters can still pursue spring bears on tribal lands. The Passamaquoddy Nation was the first to allow spring hunts, and the Penobscot Nation now offers similar opportunities. Hunts typically run about eight weeks in May and June, conducted over bait and are usually organized through licensed sporting camps that provide lodging and guide services.
Permits are available through these camps, though availability is limited, so early planning is essential. Many outfitters also attend outdoor shows to promote their hunts. Searching “spring bear hunts in Maine” online is the best way to find available options. For hunters who prefer to stay close to home, Maine offers a rare opportunity to hunt spring bears while supporting tribal communities and local guides.