1. Alaska 100,000
2. Washington 25,000
3. Oregon 25,000
4. Maine 20,500-21,500
5. Minnesota 20,000
6. California 18,000-23,000
7. Idaho 12,000-20,000
8. Wisconsin 14,000
9. Michigan 12,000
10. Montana 10,000-15,000
Source: www.bear.org
| Field Judging the American Black Bear Knowing the size of this animal before harvesting is a daunting task even for the most seasoned bear hunter. The best way to judge a trophy animal from a smaller one is by looking at the ears. The smaller the ears look compared to the head of the animal, the larger the bear is. The minimum skull size for P&Y record books is 18 inches www.pope-young.org. The minimum to make the B&C record book is 20 inches www.boone-crockett.org. |
| P&Y= Archery B&C= Gun |
| When looking for the perfect shot, especially with a bow wait until the leg facing you is forward. This will ensure a clean shot without hitting the leg bone. |
| Areas with the highest bear population |
General