Looking to hunt black bear in the U.S.? Discover the best states and regions for black bear hunting, including season info, terrain, and success rates. Learn about the best places in the United States to hunt black bear and plan your next adventure.

Black bear hunting in the United States offers a unique mix of challenge, adventure, and reward. Whether you’re after a spot-and-stalk thrill in the Rockies or a baited hunt in dense northern forests, the U.S. is full of prime black bear habitat.

If you’re wondering where to hunt black bear in the U.S., here are some of the top states and regions — known for healthy bear populations, generous seasons, and solid success rates.

🏔️ 1. Alaska

Why it’s great: Alaska is the ultimate wild frontier — and it’s home to both black bears and massive coastal brown bears.

Highlights:

  • High density of black bears, especially in Prince of Wales Island and coastal Southeast Alaska
  • Spring and fall hunting seasons
  • Remote, DIY or guided spot-and-stalk options

Tip: Bring your rain gear and be prepared to hike. Access can be tough, but the bears — and the views — are worth it.

🌲 2. Idaho

Why it’s great: Idaho offers a long bear season, affordable non-resident tags, and baiting is legal in many areas.

Highlights:

  • Excellent hunting in Units 10A, 16, 17, and 20
  • Spring and fall seasons
  • High hunter success rates, especially over bait

Tip: Bears here come in multiple color phases (black, cinnamon, chocolate), adding extra excitement.

🌄 3. Montana

Why it’s great: Spot-and-stalk in scenic mountain terrain. No baiting or hounds — just a true backcountry challenge.

Highlights:

  • Units in western Montana (especially Regions 1 & 2) offer solid populations
  • Spring season only
  • High public land access

Tip: Brush up on your bear ID — grizzly bears inhabit some areas. Proper identification is critical and legally required.

🌳 4. North Carolina

Why it’s great: Believe it or not, North Carolina is home to some giant black bears — some topping 700 lbs.

Highlights:

  • Eastern counties like Hyde, Beaufort, and Washington are bear hotspots
  • Legal to hunt with hounds
  • Limited draw for public land, but private land guided hunts are top-tier

Tip: Book early — these hunts are in high demand for trophy-class bears.

🌲 5. Maine

Why it’s great: Maine has the largest black bear population in the eastern U.S. and offers multiple hunting methods.

Highlights:

  • Legal to hunt over bait, with hounds, or by still-hunting
  • Great access to guides and outfitters
  • Healthy population across the northern half of the state

Tip: Early-season baited hunts are especially productive. Maine requires hunter registration for bear harvests.

🌄 6. Arizona

Why it’s great: Arizona might not scream “bear country,” but it’s home to a surprising number of color-phase black bears in rugged desert-mountain terrain.

Highlights:

  • Spot-and-stalk only (no bait/hounds)
  • Hunt Units 6A, 23, and 27
  • Challenging terrain, but rewarding scenery

Tip: Bears here love prickly pear fruit. Glass southern-facing slopes during early morning and evening hours.

🏕️ 7. Pennsylvania

Why it’s great: Pennsylvania consistently produces big bears — and lots of them — especially in the northern counties.

Highlights:

  • Annual harvests of 3,000+ bears statewide
  • Top counties: Lycoming, Clinton, Tioga
  • Firearms season is short but intense

Tip: Be ready to still-hunt or post up on traditional travel corridors. Pennsylvania bear season is a serious tradition.

📍 Honorable Mentions

  • Wisconsin – High success rates in the northwoods, but most tags are draw-only.
  • New Mexico – Underrated spot-and-stalk opportunities in Gila National Forest.
  • Colorado – Fall hunts only, but great over-the-counter options.