Some Black Bear Units Close TODAY!

Field reports from Region 1-3 indicate that bear activity picked up this week. One hunter I spoke with reported that he looked at nine different bears in the area he was hunting in--Region 3.

The third week in May is typically the week with the highest harvest in Montana. Warmer temperatures and increased moisture have had a positive impact on forage that are important to bears this time of year. If you are hunting in Region 2, take precautions if you are in the Blackfoot Watershed and the Clearwater Drainage. Both these areas continue to have a lot of grizzly activity. The bulk of the activity is taking place in the Seeley Lake, Lincoln and Helmville areas, with a few grizzly bears reported downstream between Potomac and Clearwater Junction.

Throughout Montana bears are foraging along streams, rivers and grazing in lower meadows and fields. Reports indicate that most bears being spotted are in lower elevations due to the heavy snow pack in the mountains.

Check the bear regulations as units 100, 102, 104, 105, 108, 280, 290, 300 close this Friday, May 15th and others remain open either through May 31st or through June 15th.