Bear hunting seasons begin in Michigan and Minnesota

Bear hunting seasons are underway in Michigan and Minnesota, with wildlife departments providing specific guidelines and ecological data.

In Michigan, the 2026 bear season begins on September 9 in the Upper Peninsula, followed by the Lower Peninsula on September 12. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reported that 6,278 licenses were made available across 10 management units following more than 72,500 applications. Regulations vary by location and date, particularly regarding bait and the use of hunting dogs. Successful hunters are required to bring the animal or specific parts, such as the unfrozen head and pelt, to a registration station within 72 hours.

In Minnesota, the Department of Natural Resources has issued requests for hunters to avoid shooting radio-collared bears. Data indicates that black bears are expanding their territory within the state. Additionally, statistics show that hunting remains the leading mortality rate for bears in Minnesota, accounting for approximately 75% of bear deaths.