Arizona Bear Hunts: Overview
Arizona is a surprisingly good destination for hunters interested in harvesting a black bear. Several recent entries in the record books have proven Arizona’s ability to grow big bears, and many bears in Arizona have some coloration, from cinnamon, to chocolate, to dark black. Bears can be found in both the upper elevations of the mountain ranges, and the lower mountain slopes. In the fall, bears commonly come down the slopes to feed on prickly pears, and can be easy to spot gorging themselves during this time. Arizona does not have a dense bear population, however, so a lot of scouting effort is important to harvest an Arizona black bear.
Arizona Bears: Hunting seasons
Arizona has two bear seasons. There are seasons in both the fall and the spring. The first of the fall seasons begins in August, and coincides with the archery deer season. In October, the bear season opens again, and runs through the end of the year. Not all units are open in each season, so care must be taken to ensure the unit you wish to hunt is open.
A non-permit tag can be purchased over the counter to hunt the fall season, while spring bear season is open to those fortunate enough to draw a permit-tag in the fall draw process.
Bear Hunting: Strategies
We hunt bears using spot and stalk methods. Unlike other states, baiting bears is illegal in Arizona, so you shouldn’t expect to sit over bait. Nor should you expect to use dogs. We will use high-quality optics mounted on steady tripods to locate feeding bears. Once we’ve spotted a suitable animal, we will plan a stalk to get within a comfortable shooting range. Bears are excellent at detecting danger, so extreme care must be taken to avoid alerting any unsuspecting bears.
Bears Camps: Accommodations and other details
we accommodate our Arizona bear hunters in base camps outfitted with spacious tents or campers, state of the art sleeping systems, a heat source (depending upon the season), lights, and other comforts. Food is expertly prepared in large portions, and any diet requirements can be accommodated. Drinking water and other beverages are provided.
Wilderness black bear hunts are outfitted with back country gear including lightweight tents, sleep systems, and back country stoves. The nature of these trips demand more from hunters in terms of physical exertion and comfort sacrifices, but the rewards include hunting areas devoid of other hunters, undisturbed bears, and scenery seen by relatively few others.
Arizona Bears: Prices and inquiries
| Hunt length | Guide ratio | Price | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 days | 1:1 | $3,400 | Fall & Spring |
Prices include: All local travel including pickup at Tucson International Airport. Please bring your own firearm and ammunition, unless prior arrangements are made. Other gear will be supplied.
License and tag fees are not included.
Please contact us for additional details. If you are hunting as a group, contact us for special group packaging.
