FWC approves Florida's first black bear hunt in a decade, sets up future hunts

HAVANA, Fla. — Florida wildlife commissioners voted unanimously Wednesday in support of the state's first black bear hunt in 10 years.

During a meeting Wednesday in Havana, commissioners for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission voted 5-0 to approve the creation of a regulated, repeatable bear hunting season beginning in December 2025.

The move sets up a 23-day bear hunt in December and more hunting sessions in the coming years.

The commission also approved changes to allow the use of hunting dogs beginning in 2027, as well as archery and baiting stations during the bear hunt.

“I am proud that Florida is joining the majority of states that manage black bears with regulated hunting,” said FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto. “The components of the hunt are conservative and prior