Black bears hold a special position in both the hearts and the ecosystem of Ontario. It’s no surprise that their populations are guarded so carefully through measures of adaptive management and selective harvesting. Current populations are estimated at 100,000 animals, one of the largest populations in North America.

Guiding principles for creating sustainable populations have been mapped out by the Ministry of Natural Resources. For one, it is crucial to establish a harmonious existence between humans and bears. Public education and stewardship efforts in the province are creating a sense of their value to the natural system, as well as establishing a respectful regard for these animals.

Black bear hunts begin in mid-August and end in November when the bears have entered their winter dens. Black bear hunters know that dispatching a trophy bruin is not only a matter of matching brawn, but also wits. The black bear’s intense sense of smell and hearing make them ideal for the careful hunter, those looking for a challenge and a truly impressive trophy. Male black bears range from 250 to 600 pounds (114 to 272 kg), females from 100 to 400 pounds (45.4 to 182 kg) making these animals formidable quarry. Even so, the wait can be long, and patience and focus are all-important.

Non-resident black bear hunters are warmly welcomed in Ontario, but there are a couple of things they should plan for when considering their next northern hunt:

• Most non-residents are required to contract the services of a tourist outfitter, guide or air operator licensed (by MNR) to provide bear hunting services to non-residents.
• All black bear hunters hunting during the black bear season are required to wear hunter orange except when in a tree stand.
• Hounds must be licensed.
• Licences and regulations (per the Ontario Hunting Regulation Summary) must be met.