Montana Spring Black Bear

[Truckie200]

Hello all. New member but have learned a lot of info from many throughout the years. As the title says, planning my first black bear hunt in Montana Spring 2026. Just looking for any insight anyone can give. Not asking for your specific spots, just any tips. Have hunted deer, dove and waterfowl over the past 25 years in Indiana, so is a huge change of scenery for me! Have been working out over the past year specifically for mountain hunting with Mtn Tough, so I’m aware of the physicality of it.

Have the gear coming in as far as pack, hot tent with stove, boots and already use some of the KUIU gear.

Biggest thing is just areas. Have been looking into northwest around Lewis or Swan Range. ANY pointers you can give would be greatly appreciated!

 

[stayzeroed]

Hello fellow flatlander. I was in your boots a few years ago - I even use Mountain Tough. I doubt you'll get many 'areas' given to you, especially when you're not looking for specific spots. I think giving 'spots' away is a no-no on here.

Your best bet; go out in 2026 and see what works. Maybe you'll be successful, maybe not - it's in the eye of the beholder anyway. It sounds like you have a good idea on equipment already. Then, regroup and go out again, either later in the season or in 2027. You won't regret it - Spring Bear has become a favorite of mine and plan to do it every year as long as I can.

Some important things to consider:

-What part of the state are you going to and when? Snowfall, snow depth, and pending snow are a major factor in accessibility. Not to mention, bear food growth.
-You need food and water, more so water. Filter it, chem-treat, or UV it, but have access to it.
-Freeze drieds are good, but bring a snack or two. Some sunlight, a view, a snack, and a nap are great for the soul.
-You don't need to stay in for 7 days.
-Earth tone solids are good for camo, unless you really like Sitka - to each their own.
-Compared to Indiana, Montana can be overwhelming. It's Big Sky country for a reason, it can swallow you if you aren't prepared.

 

[Truckie200]

Thanks for the insight! We (wife and I) went to Glacier for the first time a few years ago and you’re absolutely right, it will swallow you. I can imagine what being out in the unpopulated areas will be, along with the snow for the spring bear season. We still had snow in June when we went, so definitely planning on dealing with cold weather. Especially since as of now I plan on being near that area and will most likely be at the end of April/beginning of May.

As far as camo, you mention earth solids, all of my current KUIU is the Valo coloring. I assume that’ll fare well? If not, I’d considered investing in some solids anyhow.

Any recommendations as to jetboil vs fire maple?

Hello fellow flatlander. I was in your boots a few years ago - I even use Mountain Tough. I doubt you'll get many 'areas' given to you, especially when you're not looking for specific spots. I think giving 'spots' away is a no-no on here.

Your best bet; go out in 2026 and see what works. Maybe you'll be successful, maybe not - it's in the eye of the beholder anyway. It sounds like you have a good idea on equipment already. Then, regroup and go out again, either later in the season or in 2027. You won't regret it - Spring Bear has become a favorite of mine and plan to do it every year as long as I can.

Some important things to consider:

-What part of the state are you going to and when? Snowfall, snow depth, and pending snow are a major factor in accessibility. Not to mention, bear food growth.
-You need food and water, more so water. Filter it, chem-treat, or UV it, but have access to it.
-Freeze drieds are good, but bring a snack or two. Some sunlight, a view, a snack, and a nap are great for the soul.
-You don't need to stay in for 7 days.
-Earth tone solids are good for camo, unless you really like Sitka - to each their own.
-Compared to Indiana, Montana can be overwhelming. It's Big Sky country for a reason, it can swallow you if you aren't prepared.

 

[stayzeroed]

Thanks for the insight! We (wife and I) went to Glacier for the first time a few years ago and you’re absolutely right, it will swallow you. I can imagine what being out in the unpopulated areas will be, along with the snow for the spring bear season. We still had snow in June when we went, so definitely planning on dealing with cold weather. Especially since as of now I plan on being near that area and will most likely be at the end of April/beginning of May.

As far as camo, you mention earth solids, all of my current KUIU is the Valo coloring. I assume that’ll fare well? If not, I’d considered investing in some solids anyhow.

Any recommendations as to jetboil vs fire maple?

I have seen plenty of Valo, it will do just fine.

No recommendation on a jetboil or fire maple. I use an MSR pocket rocket with a titanium cup. If it's too windy, I just set up some rocks or whatever is available. There are some good product comparison videos out there that test weight, useability, fuel consumption, and price.