Bull elk and black bear hunting remain very popular in Missouri, based on the number of people applying for permits.

The latest numbers from the Missouri Department of Conservation show 5,249 bear applications and 8,409 bull elk applications were received last month for this year’s respective hunting seasons.

Last year, the department received 9,300 bull elk applications and 5,969 black bear applications.

Two years ago, 5,374 people applied for bear permits and over 8,562 for elk permits.

Conservation staff said the numbers of applicants fluctuates from year-to-year and that this year’s drop is not concerning.

The application process is a money maker for the conservation department – it charges applicants $10 each for both black bear and bull elk. Those awarded permits have to pay ext

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