Bear Hunting License Guide
Bear hunting license guide across 32 US states — tag costs, draw requirements, and season dates.
About Bear Hunting in the United States
Black bear hunting is available in approximately 32 US states, with an estimated 200,000 hunters harvesting 40,000-50,000 bears annually. License structures range from over-the-counter tags in states like Pennsylvania and Idaho to draw-only opportunities in limited-entry states. Bear tag costs vary significantly — Pennsylvania offers one of the cheapest resident tags at $16.97, while non-resident tags in Alaska can reach $450 for black bear and $1,000 for brown/grizzly bear. Many states require separate bear tags in addition to a base hunting license. Some states, including Colorado and Montana, mandate a Bear Identification Test before purchasing a bear license. Hunting methods include spot-and-stalk, baiting (where legal), and hunting with dogs (where permitted).
Scientific name: Ursus americanus
Bear Distribution Map
See where bear hunting is available across the United States.
Bear Hunting License Costs by State
Compare bear tag prices, seasons, and license methods across states.
| State | Resident Tag | Non-Resident Tag | Season | Method | Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | $13.75 | $231.75 | Aug–Nov | OTC | 2 bears (in 2-bear units) |
| Pennsylvania | $16.97 | $36.97 | Nov | OTC | 1 bear per season |
| Montana | $19.00 | $350.00 | Apr–Nov | Both | 1 black bear |
| Maine | $26.00 | $115.00 | Aug–Nov | OTC | 1 bear per year |
| Colorado | $64.01 | $302.56 | Sep–Nov | Both | 1 bear per year |
Prices sourced from official state wildlife agencies. Last updated: 2026-03-13.
Bear Hunting Tips & Resources
Know the Regulations
Before your hunt, always verify current season dates, bag limits, and legal methods with the state wildlife agency.
Scout Your Area
Use public land maps and trail cameras to identify bear habitat and travel patterns before season opens.
Safety First
Wear required blaze orange, carry your license, and follow all firearm safety rules while in the field.
Recommended Bear Hunting Gear
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Bear Hunting License FAQ
Which state has the cheapest bear hunting license?
Idaho offers one of the cheapest resident bear tags at $13.75 for a two-bear unit. Pennsylvania's resident bear tag is $16.97 and Montana's is $19. Non-resident prices are substantially higher across all states.
Do I need to take a bear identification test?
Several states including Colorado and Montana require first-time bear hunters to pass a Black Bear Identification Test before purchasing a bear license. This helps hunters distinguish between protected species and legal game.
Can I hunt bears in all 50 states?
No. Bear hunting is legal in approximately 32 states. It is prohibited in some states due to low populations, and regulations vary significantly between states that do allow it.