MNR looks at extending fall bear hunt

David Anderson
Ministry of Natural Resources

The Ministry Natural Resources is proposing that the fall bear hunt be extended by just over two weeks, from October 15 to October 31, in those areas of northern Ontario where the hunt previously ended on October 15.
The Minister has repeatedly said that he would look for ways of providing more hunting opportunities. This is one such opportunity. This change will apply to resident and non-resident hunters and to trappers. Resident hunters will also have the option of purchasing a second bear seal in selected wildlife management units where there are no concerns about sustainability of the bear populations. Hunting is a long-standing Ontario tradition.
The regular black bear season opens for both residents and non-residents on August 15th and, at the present time, ends October 15th for most Wildlife Management Units (WMUs). For WMUs 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7B, 8, 9A, 9B and 10 it ends on October 31st. In WMU 7A it also ends on October 31st but for archery and muzzle-loaders only
Most people wait until closer to September to hunt as the days are cooler and there are fewer flies. It’s also easier to cool and care for your game. People must remember that you can’t waste either the flesh or hide of the bear.
It is also proposed that starting in 2005, it will be mandatory for hunters to report their bear hunting activity and harvest. This will enable us to carefully monitor the harvest and help us determine future hunting opportunities.