First Black bear hunt
ikehubbs asked:
Anyone ever hunt black bear? What tactics should I use, caliber of rifle etc.
It’s a baited hunt in Ontario.
Any tips, hints etc. would be greatly appreciated!
Camp Quetico Blog
Canadian Drive-To American-Plan Fishing Lodge
September 26th, 2009 at 6:55 pm
I have not hunted black bear in Montana, but have in canada for the past 7 years. I leave on Friday. Not sure of the laws in Montana, but baiting is the most successful, if allowed. I suggest you hire a guide to assist with this. If bating is not allowed, then the next way to “hunt” black bears would be with trained dogs. I find this not very sporting, but you may and it may be legal in Montana. Spot and Stalk is extremly difficult, and time consuming.
I have killed black bears with a 100 grain fixed blade arrow and with a 45/70 rifle. Shot placement is key. Bears have large shoulder bones, so slow and heavy is key. My buddy shot a bear with a 30.06 rifle using a180 grain bullet at 15 feet, and we never recovered. Fast bullet, did not open up, very little blood. If you bait and can get close, use a bow, if not use a 45/70 or a rifled slug. The bigger the hole, the more blood to trail. When a bear is shot, the fat seals up the wound fast and the thick hair absorbes blood. Good luck, and bring a hand gun or bear spray if allowed. You have Brown Bears in Montana as well.
September 29th, 2009 at 12:00 am
dont bait or use dogs…thats not hunting. thats just killing.
September 29th, 2009 at 5:39 pm
Dont listen to these baiters, they are not real hunters. Baiting and waiting is for people who do not have the skills to find and stalk game.
It is admirable that Montana only allows spot and stalk tactics.
Basically you should talk with locals. If you know the current food source you wont have much of a problem finding them and stalking them ; )