Good weather and an additional day assisted hunters who harvested 103 black bears during the 19th annual black bear hunt Oct. 24 to 29 in Allegany, Frederick, Garrett and Washington counties.
The harvest comprised 41 male and 62 female bears. An additional 10 bears—3 male and 7 female—were harvested between Sept. 1 and Oct. 31 by farmers using agricultural damage permits.
The significant increase in harvest from 54 black bears taken in 2021 was attributed to better hunting conditions, more hunter participation, and an added day to the season. The 2021 hunt was hampered by poor weather and abundant natural food sources, which slowed the harvest. This year, better weather and typical fall food conditions were more favorable for hunting. The harvest was slightly lower than the previous 5-year average of 116 bears.
“Bear hunters enjoyed prime fall weather this year to spend time with friends and family pursuing one of our most recognizable game species,” said Paul Peditto, Wildlife and Heritage Service director. “Bear hunting remains an essential tool for managing our expanding bear population to minimize human conflicts and ensure it remains healthy for future generations.”
2022 Maryland Black Bear Hunt by the Numbers: Of the 103 black bears were harvested, 70 from Garrett County, 19 from Allegany County, 10 from Washington County, and 4 from Frederick County; the average harvested bear weighed 177 pounds, and the heaviest bear weighed 427 pounds, taken in Garrett County; 67% of bears were taken on private land; 4,775 hunters applied for a permit, and 950 permits were awarded.
More information about black bear management in Maryland is available online.