First time bear hunter from Ms

[Jbear1919]

Ok guys I have been a whitetaile deer and duck guide in ms for years. I’ve also done some diy elk hunts in Colorado and Wyoming and been successful. But I’ve always wanted a black bear since my state has rich bear hunting history but no season yet. My question is is there anyone out there with knowledge on good areas within the southeast that will allow me great chances to be able to hunt and get opportunities at bear. Between Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina and anywhere near it I just don’t know where to start. I’ve always had someone in other states to at least give me references so I’m not totally blind going into new areas with my limited time being a farmer also. Any tips and information anyone can give is greatly appreciated. I have never bear hunted before but have been around them. So will take any advice I can get to help shorten my learning curve. -Jon Barrentine

 

[Blind Squirrel]

Ok guys I have been a whitetaile deer and duck guide in ms for years. I’ve also done some diy elk hunts in Colorado and Wyoming and been successful. But I’ve always wanted a black bear since my state has rich bear hunting history but no season yet. My question is is there anyone out there with knowledge on good areas within the southeast that will allow me great chances to be able to hunt and get opportunities at bear. Between Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina and anywhere near it I just don’t know where to start. I’ve always had someone in other states to at least give me references so I’m not totally blind going into new areas with my limited time being a farmer also. Any tips and information anyone can give is greatly appreciated. I have never bear hunted before but have been around them. So will take any advice I can get to help shorten my learning curve. -Jon Barrentine

I recommend a guided hunt. Since you’re a guide yourself, I’m sure you can appreciate their value. I don’t know what all states in the southeast allow guided hunts, but I know NC does. There are also a lot of places out west or in Canada that are easy to get to via plane. If time is the limiting factor, guides will be well worth their cost, and it will help you on the learning curve for future DIY hunts.
Other than that, I can only offer to look for white oaks with a good mast crop in difficult to access areas.