Hunting Southern Bears in the Appalachian Hills
Georgia’s black bear population offers hunters a rewarding opportunity in some of the Southeast’s most scenic and rugged terrain. With established populations in the north, central, and southeast parts of the state, Georgia provides both public and private land access during a fall hunting season that aligns with peak bear activity. Hunters willing to scout hard and cover ground will find a traditional and challenging bear hunt in the Peach State. And if you talk to any guy who's been out there, they'll tell you it's all about sharing tips and experiences to make the most of your bear hunting adventure in Georgia.
Black Bear Behavior in Georgia
Georgia’s bears are most active during the fall as they prepare for winter by feeding heavily on hard and soft mast. Acorns, persimmons, berries, and agricultural crops are key food sources. Bears typically follow ridgelines, creek bottoms, and transitional cover between feeding and bedding areas. In the mountains, they often travel through laurel thickets and forested saddles, especially during early morning and late afternoon.
Unlike black bears, whitetail deer have much smaller home ranges and tend to stay within a more confined area. This difference in behavior and habitat is crucial for hunters to understand, as it affects hunting strategies and techniques.
Season Dates and Licensing
Black bear season in Georgia generally runs from early September through early December, with variations depending on region. The northern zone offers both archery and firearm opportunities, while central and southern regions have limited-day firearm hunts. The first season of black bear hunting in Georgia typically starts in early September, with specific regulations and restrictions varying by region. Hunters must have a big game license and bear harvest record. Reporting harvested bears is mandatory, and tooth submission is required for biological data collection. Baiting is not allowed for bear hunting in Georgia.
Best Areas to Hunt Bears in Georgia
North Georgia Mountains
The Chattahoochee National Forest and surrounding Wildlife Management Areas in Union, Rabun, Towns, and Lumpkin counties hold the densest bear populations. These hunts often involve steep terrain and thick vegetation but offer strong odds for those willing to hike. Hunting black bears in the mountain regions of North Georgia presents unique challenges, such as varying bear sizes and behaviors due to elevation, and requires specific strategies to navigate the rugged terrain and locate food sources.
Central Georgia Swamps and Timber
Smaller but stable populations exist in areas like Ocmulgee WMA and Oaky Woods WMA. These regions are tougher to scout due to dense habitat but can be productive during short season windows if food sources are active. Hunters have found that bears are often hunted successfully by focusing on areas with abundant food sources and using scent attractants to draw them out in the dense swamps and timber of central Georgia.
Southeast Georgia Flats
The Okefenokee region and nearby public lands contain a growing bear population. Hunts here involve navigating wetland terrain and forest edges. Bears in this region are often larger due to longer growing seasons and less hunting pressure. Compared to other bears in different regions, such as those up north, Southeast Georgia's bears benefit from unique environmental conditions that contribute to their size and behavior.
Hunting Tactics and Gear
Still-Hunting and Spot-and-Stalk
Still-hunting ridge lines and creek bottoms is effective in northern zones. Move slowly and glass for movement or fresh sign like tracks and scat. In flatter terrain, spot-and-stalk can work when visibility allows. Always approach bears from down wind to mask human scent, especially when they are in trees.
Stand Hunting Over Sign
In forested areas, set up near trails, natural funnels, or recent bear activity. Portable tree stands or ground blinds should be placed near food sources like white oak stands or fruiting persimmon trees. Additionally, setting up stands near oak groves is crucial, as bears are likely to frequent these areas for food.
Gear Recommendations
A .30 caliber rifle or larger is ideal for dense forest and hilly shots. Use scent control, camo suited for mixed hardwoods, and quality optics. For bow season, consider a compound bow with heavy draw weight and carbon arrows with broadheads specifically designed for black bear hunting. A GPS, compass, and bear spray should always be part of your kit, especially in remote terrain.
Conclusion
Georgia’s fall bear season offers a unique and challenging hunt for those who appreciate tough terrain, traditional methods, and the chance to match wits with an intelligent and elusive animal. With careful scouting, attention to seasonal food patterns, and solid fieldcraft, hunters can find success across the varied landscapes of Georgia’s bear country.
FAQs
When is bear season in Georgia?
Season dates vary by region. Northern zones typically run from September through December, while central and southern areas have limited-day firearm seasons.
Do I need a license?
Yes. A valid big game license and bear harvest record are required.
Is baiting allowed?
No. Baiting is illegal for bear hunting in Georgia.
Can I use archery equipment?
Yes. Archery season usually opens earlier in northern zones, making it crucial to select appropriate hunting equipment, including a bow, tailored for black bear hunting.
What areas have the most bears?
North Georgia mountains hold the highest densities, especially around Chattahoochee National Forest.
Do I need to report my harvest?
Yes. All harvested bears must be reported, and tooth submission is required.
What firearm should I use?
A .30 caliber or larger rifle is recommended. Shot placement is crucial due to dense vegetation.
Can I hunt on public land?
Yes. Georgia has numerous Wildlife Management Areas open during bear season.
What should I bring?
Camo, scent control, a durable rifle, GPS, bear spray, and gear suitable for rugged or swampy terrain.
Are bears dangerous in Georgia?
Generally shy, but use caution when tracking wounded animals. Always be aware of your surroundings and carry bear spray in remote areas.