Timing is everything when it comes to black bear hunting. These elusive animals are most active during specific hours of the day, and knowing when to be in the woods can make or break your hunt. Whether you’re spot-and-stalk hunting or baiting, understanding bear behavior is key to success.

So, When Is the Best Time of Day to Hunt Black Bear?

The ideal time of day for black bear hunting is early morning and late evening. These are the periods when bears are most active and likely to be moving in search of food.

🕔 Early Morning: Dawn to Mid-Morning (5:00 AM – 9:00 AM)

In the early hours just before and after sunrise, black bears often leave their bedding areas and start moving. If you’re in a region with limited human activity, this window can be productive, especially in cooler weather.

Why it’s effective:

  • Cooler temps keep bears active.
  • They’re searching for food after resting overnight.
  • Less hunting pressure early in the day.

Tips for morning hunts:

  • Be in position before first light.
  • Watch feeding areas, berry patches, or travel routes.

🌅 Late Evening: Dusk to Sunset (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)

Evening tends to be the prime time for black bear hunting, especially near bait sites or feeding zones. As the sun sets and temperatures drop, bears become bolder and more active.

Why evenings are best:

  • Bears are naturally crepuscular (most active at dawn and dusk).
  • Cooler temperatures mean longer movement periods.
  • Ideal for ambush setups near food sources.

Tips for evening hunts:

  • Stay silent and scent-free.
  • Set up downwind of likely trails or bait.
  • Wait patiently — bears often appear in the final minutes of legal light.

Midday Hunting: Worth It?

While not as productive, midday black bear hunting can work, particularly in cooler climates or overcast days. Bears may still roam during these hours if food is scarce or if they’re undisturbed by human presence.

That said, it’s generally less active and not the most efficient use of time unless you’re tracking a bear on foot or know its recent patterns.

Final Thoughts

If you want to increase your chances during black bear hunting, focus your efforts during early morning and late evening hours. These windows align with the bear’s natural activity and offer the best shot opportunities — literally and figuratively.

Pro Tip: Use trail cameras to monitor bear movement and fine-tune your hunting schedule. Every bear and every region is a little different.