Tips For Bear Hunting In Canada

Bear hunting in Canada is a hunting experience that goes unmatched. Canada's black bears roam from Ontario to the west coast and grow to a much bigger size than what they do in the U.S. For a hunter who's looking for a spectacular black bear hunting experience, Canada is the number one destination.

Due to citizenship laws, planning a Canadian hunting trip requires a few extra steps. Hunters must at all times be wearing an orange hunting vest and cap. There are no exceptions. If you're using an ATV, a helmet is also required, as is up to date insurance. For a hunting license to be issued in Ontario, the hunter must have a previous hunting license from their state. Handguns are not allowed in Canada, and any non-residents will need to register their firearms with the Canadian Customs at the border crossing. Proof of U.S. citizenship and auto insurance (if you're driving) will also be expected upon crossing.

Manitoba is a place to consider for your Canadian hunting trip. Riding Mountain National Park is notable for it's bear hunting. The park grows some of the largest bears in the world, and the park has the highest population density in Canada. Manitoba also has a high population of color phased black bears, which means they range from black to white in color. A black bear doesn't necessarily have to be black to be considered a trophy bear.

There are many outfitters to choose from throughout Canada to assist you in finding the perfect bear. Some hunt camps may charge a Non-Resident Hunting Preservation Fund payment. Bow hunting is welcomed by most outfitters, and many will allow you to take a second bear for an extra fee, however if the bear is only wounded and not caught, the fee is still charged. British Colombia has many hunting camps catering to the black bear hunter. The bears here grow large, ranging six to seven feet high, with skulls 18-21 inches, and many of the outfitters here welcome both the experienced, and the inexperienced hunter.

Canada has two options for bear hunting. The chosen method is often baiting. Most outfitters that offer baited bear will supply the bait and ask you not to bring your own, or add to the existing bait pile. The hunter sits in a ground blind or a tree stand waiting for his trophy bear to come by. The other method is to spot and stalk the bear. This is often considered the more humane way to hunt. This method requires a lot of trekking, but the catch is all the sweeter when it comes. This method is also more agreeable to British Colombia's open terrain.