Northeastern Bear Country
New Hampshire is home to a healthy and growing black bear population, especially in the northern and central parts of the state. New Hampshire's bear management system includes regulations for hunting on state-owned and managed lands. With its expansive forests, mountainous terrain, and structured bear management system, the state offers both opportunity and challenge for hunters. Understanding the baiting rules, season structure, and zone-specific strategies is key to a successful bear hunt in the Granite State.
Licensing and Tagging Requirements
Hunters pursuing black bears in New Hampshire must possess a valid New Hampshire hunting license and a separate bear license. Hunters must present the entire carcass with sex organs attached during registration. The bear license allows the take of one bear per year. Bear hunting regulations vary by wildlife management units (WMUs). All harvested bears must be registered and checked at an official registration station. Adult hunters must possess a valid archery license if they plan to hunt with a bow. Hunters must also have a valid regular New Hampshire hunting license. Hunters using bait or dogs must also follow specific permitting and reporting requirements.
Season Structure
New Hampshire’s black bear season is divided into different methods of take and regions. The general season for black bear hunting includes various methods and regions. The state is broken into Bear Management Units (BMUs), and season dates vary depending on the unit and hunting method. The season typically includes:
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Still Hunting Season: Begins in early September and runs through mid-November.
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Baiting Season: Starts a few weeks after the still-hunting opener and ends earlier, usually around mid-October.
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Hound Hunting Season: Has its own schedule and restrictions. The dog season is one of the three main bear hunting seasons in New Hampshire.
Hunters must choose their method of hunting when applying for a bear license and cannot switch methods during the season. Hunters must ensure the season dates apply to their chosen method and WMU.
Baiting Regulations
Baiting is allowed in designated bear units, but hunters must obtain a baiting permit. Hunters must obtain a permit to place bait. Bait sites must be registered with the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, and only one site is permitted per hunter. Each bait site must be registered with the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. Baiting can begin no earlier than the authorized date, and all bait must be removed after the season. Hunters must follow specific regulations when baiting bears. Baiting is commonly done with sugary foods, pastries, or grain mixtures, and successful hunters often rely on trail cameras to monitor site activity. While chocolate is prohibited, white chocolate is an allowable exception. Hunters must obtain permission to bait bears on private land. Applications for baiting permits on state-owned lands must be submitted by the first Monday in August.
Best Bear Hunting Regions
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Northern New Hampshire (BMUs A, B, C): These areas have the highest bear densities and most consistent harvests. The Connecticut Lakes region is known for its special baiting permit lottery rules.
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White Mountain Region (BMUs D1–D2): Offers rugged terrain and public land access with lower pressure than the far north. The White Mountains region offers additional bear tags for specific wildlife management units.
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Western and Central Units (BMUs E, F): Mix of private and public lands with a balanced population. The Connecticut Lakes Headwaters Forest has specific regulations for bear baiting.
Each region has its own season timing, so reviewing the Fish and Game guide is essential before planning a hunt. The units C1, D2, E, and F are known for their bear hunting opportunities.
Legal Methods of Take
Hunters may use rifles, muzzleloaders, shotguns, and archery equipment. Retractable blade broadheads are permitted as long as they meet specific width requirements when open. The use of dogs is allowed with a hound permit in select units. Shotguns must be loaded with a single ball for bear hunting. Baiting and hounding cannot be combined during the same hunt. Fixed blade broadheads must be between 7/8 inches and 1½ inches wide. Stand hunting is effective over bait, while still-hunters focus on travel corridors, feeding zones, and natural movement patterns. Archery hunters must possess a valid archery license.
Bear Behavior and Habitat
Black bears in New Hampshire are driven by food sources. In fall, they feed heavily on beechnuts, acorns, berries, and corn. Using a spotting scope can help hunters effectively glass big game. Bait sites near natural food help concentrate activity. New hunters can benefit from hunting with an experienced hunter to learn effective strategies. Bears move most during early morning and late evening hours, and cooler weather increases daytime movement. Pre-season scouting and trail camera monitoring improve success by identifying bear size, travel patterns, and visitation times.
Gear and Preparation
Rifles in .30 caliber or larger are recommended for quick and ethical kills. Hunters can also pursue small game such as ducks, geese, and turkeys in New Hampshire. Archery hunters should use fixed-blade broadheads and set up for close-range shots from tree stands. Completing a hunter education course is essential for obtaining a hunting license. Trail cameras, scent control, and quiet access routes are key when baiting. Hunting in a party can improve efficiency and success during the hunt. In mountainous terrain, hunters should pack for long hikes, variable weather, and the logistics of packing out a large animal.
Reporting and Registration
All harvested bears must be registered within 24 hours at an official check station. Hunters must report their harvested bears to a conservation officer for tagging and registration. Hunters must report the location, time, and method of take. The law enforcement division oversees the registration process. Teeth are collected for aging, and data is used to manage the state’s bear population. The game department provides necessary information for wildlife regulations and tagging. Tagging must be completed immediately upon harvest. Hunters must present the bear with its reproductive organs still attached during registration. Hunters must possess a valid tag to legally hunt black bears.
Conclusion
Black bear hunting in New Hampshire blends tradition, management precision, and rugged backcountry adventure. With well-defined baiting and season rules, hunters must stay informed and strategic. Whether glassing a ridge or watching a bait pile at dawn, the hunt demands patience, preparation, and respect for one of the Northeast’s most iconic big game animals.
FAQs
Do I need a separate license to hunt bears in New Hampshire?
Yes, in addition to a regular hunting license, you need a bear license. New hunters can apply for an apprentice license to hunt under the supervision of an experienced hunter. Adult hunters aged 16 and older must possess various licenses to legally hunt black bears.
Is baiting allowed for bear hunting?
Yes, with a permit. Hunters must obtain a specific permit to bait wildlife. Baiting is allowed only in certain units and during specific dates. The wildlife division of the N.H. Fish and Game Department oversees the baiting permit process.
Can I hunt with dogs?
Yes, but only with a hound permit and in designated units.
How many bears can I harvest per year?
One bear per year per licensed hunter.
When does the bear season open?
Still hunting usually begins in early September. Hunters must be aware of the specific date when the season opens. Baiting and hounding start later. Applications for baiting permits must be submitted by the first Monday in August.
What calibers are legal?
.30 caliber or larger rifles are recommended for bear hunting.
Are there public lands to hunt bears?
Yes, especially in the White Mountains and northern BMUs. Hunters can also hunt on state-owned and managed lands.
These lands have specific regulations and permit requirements.
How do I register a harvested bear?
All bears must be checked in at an official registration station within 24 hours.
Can I use bait and dogs together?
No, baiting and hounding cannot be used in the same hunt.
What units have the best bear populations?
Northern BMUs like A, B, and C are known for high bear densities and harvest rates.