Black bear numbers have grown in many states, and hunting opportunity has grown with them.
The comeback
Bears have made a strong comeback in states such as Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri and Florida. Arkansas has expanded its seasons, and Missouri held its first modern bear season.
Big bears
North Carolina is known for producing some of the largest black bears anywhere, and Alaska offers spring and fall hunting with plenty of do-it-yourself opportunity.
Public land
National forests across the West, the Great Lakes states and the Appalachians hold good bear populations. Scout food sources before the season.