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North Carolina is one of the top states in the eastern United States for black bear hunting, and for good reason. The state’s black bear population is one of the densest in North America, especially in the coastal and mountainous regions. Whether you are planning your first bear hunt or returning for another season, understanding the rules set by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) is the foundation of a legal, ethical, and successful outing.

From season dates and management zones to licensing requirements and harvest reporting, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about bear hunting season in North Carolina. Always verify current dates and rules with the official NCWRC regulations digest before heading afield, as regulations are subject to annual changes.

Bear Species You Can Hunt in North Carolina

North Carolina has only one huntable bear species: the American black bear (Ursus americanus). The state is home to a healthy black bear population concentrated in two regions — the coastal plain of the east and the mountain counties of the west. These two distinct populations have shaped how the NCWRC structures its management zones, season dates, and regulations.

The Coastal Zone, particularly Hyde, Beaufort, and Tyrrell counties, is known for producing some of the biggest black bears in the nation. Bears there feed on crops, swamp vegetation, and mast. The Albemarle-Pamlico Peninsula holds one of the densest black bear populations on the East Coast.

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The Mountain Zone, including Cherokee, Graham, and Haywood counties, offers rugged terrain, hardwood ridges, and classic mountain bear pursuits, where both dog hunters and still-hunters find success on public and game lands.

Key Insight: Regardless of where you hunt, all black bears in North Carolina are protected under the same core restrictions. It is unlawful to take a cub (less than 75 pounds) or a female bear with cubs.

Piedmont transition areas, though less traditional for bear hunting, hold expanding populations in some central counties and offer new opportunities for still-hunters. If you are hunting in a newer or less-traditional area, confirm zone boundaries carefully before your hunt. You can also review when bears come out of hibernation in North Carolina to better understand seasonal bear activity.

Bear Hunting Season Dates in North Carolina

Bear hunting in North Carolina is divided into distinct management zones with specific season dates and methods. The state offers opportunities for both archery and firearm hunters, with seasons structured to manage harvest across different bear populations. Below are the season dates from the 2025–2026 NCWRC regulations digest.

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Management Unit | Season Dates (2025–2026) | Notes
Mountain Bear Management Unit | Oct. 4 – Nov. 22, 2025 & Dec. 13, 2025 – Jan. 1, 2026 | Both segments now open on Saturdays
Piedmont Bear Management Unit (select counties) | Oct. 18, 2025 – Jan. 1, 2026 | Dates vary by county group
Piedmont Bear Management Unit (additional counties) | Nov. 15, 2025 – Jan. 1, 2026 | See county-specific listings
Piedmont Bear Management Unit (remaining counties) | Nov. 22, 2025 – Jan. 1, 2026 | See county-specific listings
Coastal Bear Management Unit | Nov. 8 – 23 & Dec. 10, 2025 – Jan. 1, 2026 | Some counties open Nov. 7 per local law

For the Mountain Unit specifically, the 2025–2026 bear season runs October 4 – November 22, 2025, and December 13, 2025 – January 1, 2026. The length of the mountain bear seasons increased by 11 days for 2025–2026, with both segments now opening on Saturdays, and all hunters may use unprocessed food during the second segment.

Important Note: Bear seasons are set annually based on population surveys, so exact dates for future seasons will not be finalized until closer to the season. Bear seasons typically follow a pattern of October and December hunting blocks, but specific dates depend on annual population assessments and harvest quotas. Always check the current NCWRC digest before you plan your trip.

If you enjoy hunting other big game in the state, be sure to review the deer hunting season in North Carolina and turkey hunting season in North Carolina to plan a full season calendar.

Bear Hunting Licenses and Tags in North Carolina

Before you set foot in the field, you need to have the correct licenses and stamps in order. Obtaining the proper permits and licenses is essential for bear hunting in North Carolina. Hunters must have a valid North Carolina hunting license, available to residents and non-residents for varying fees, and a Bear Management E-Stamp is required, which supports conservation programs and research.

Here is a breakdown of what you need based on residency status, as reported by hunting sources citing 2025–2026 fee schedules:

Check this out: Can You Own a Lion in Tennessee? What the Law Actually Says The idea of owning a lion captures the imagination, but the legal reality in Tennessee is far more restrictive than…

Resident hunters: State Hunting License ($30) plus Big Game Privilege ($17 residents). You also need a Bear Management Stamp ($14 for residents).

Non-resident hunters: Non-residents pay $119 for a State Hunting License, $119 for Big Game Privilege, and $284 for a Bear License if hunting bears.

Pro Tip: Hunting licenses can be purchased online at ncwildlife.org or through authorized license agents throughout the state. Purchase your bear e-stamp well before the season opens — once you have your e-stamp, the NCWRC will mail you a bear tooth envelope that you will need for mandatory harvest reporting.

North Carolina requires hunter education certification for anyone born on or after August 1, 1974. Both in-person and online-plus-field-day course formats are available. An Apprentice Hunting License allows first-time hunters to hunt under the direct supervision of a licensed adult while completing their education requirement.

You can also explore bow hunting laws in North Carolina if you plan to pursue bear with archery equipment, as additional equipment standards apply.

Legal Methods and Weapons for Bear Hunting in North Carolina

Hunters may pursue black bears with rifles, shotguns, muzzleloaders, archery equipment, and crossbows. The regulations specify approved weapons, including rifles, shotguns, and archery equipment, with minimum caliber and draw weight requirements to ensure humane practices. Rifles must be at least .24 caliber, and archery equipment must have a minimum draw weight of 40 pounds.

Related content: Can You Own a Sugar Glider in Colorado? What State Law Actually Says If you've been thinking about bringing a sugar glider home in Colorado, you're probably wondering whether the state even allows…

Rifle hunters often favor larger calibers for bear. Rifles are the most popular choice for bear hunting, offering accuracy and power over long distances. Common calibers used for black bear hunting include .30-06 Springfield, .308 Winchester, .45-70 Government, and 7mm Remington Magnum. For those who prefer a more challenging approach, black bear archery hunts are becoming increasingly popular. Hunters heading out with compound bows should opt for a draw weight of at least 50 pounds, although higher is preferable.

Hunting with Dogs

Hunting bears with dogs is a longstanding tradition in North Carolina, but the rules vary by county. Counties where unprocessed food and the use of dogs are both allowed all season are distinct from counties where unprocessed food is allowed all season but hunting with dogs is prohibited.

Hunting bears with dogs is prohibited in the following counties or parts of counties: Alamance south of I-85, Anson west of N.C. Hwy 742, Cabarrus, Chatham, Davie, Davidson, Forsyth, Gaston, Guilford, Lee, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Orange south of I-85, Pamlico (per local law), Randolph, Rockingham, Rowan, Stanly, Union, and Wake south of N.C. Hwy 98. In all other counties, hunting bears with the use of dogs is legal during open bear seasons, but restrictions may apply on game lands.

Baiting Rules

In all counties, unprocessed foods may be used to aid in the taking of bear during any open season for bear. However, the definition of what qualifies as “unprocessed” is specific. For purposes of bear baiting regulations, “bait” means a natural, unprocessed food product that is a grain, fruit, nut, vegetable, or other material harvested from a plant crop that is not modified from its raw components.

More story: Rabies Vaccine Requirements for Ferrets in Virginia Virginia is home to a healthy population of ferret owners, and rabies is a real public health concern across the…

Common Mistake: Bears shall not be taken with the use or aid of processed food products, animals, animal parts or products, salt, salt licks, honey, sugar, sugar-based materials, syrups, candy, pastry, gum, candy blocks, oils, spices, or peanut butter. Using any of these substances is a violation, even if placed by someone else.

For a broader look at how hunting methods are regulated across the state, see hunting laws in South Carolina for a useful comparison with a neighboring state.

Bag Limits and Harvest Reporting Requirements in North Carolina

North Carolina enforces strict bag limits and mandatory reporting requirements for bear hunters. The daily bag limit for bear is one, the possession limit is one, and the season limit is one. This applies statewide across all management units.

Mandatory Bear Tooth Submission

It is mandatory to submit at least one premolar tooth from your harvested bear by January 31st following the applicable bear hunting season. After pulling both upper premolar teeth, place one of the teeth in the bear tooth envelope you received in the mail from the Commission. Save the other tooth as a backup until you have been notified by the Commission that your tooth was received.

See also: Is It Illegal to Feed Deer in Texas? What You Need to Know Before You Feed Texas is home to one of the largest deer populations in North America, and many residents feel a natural pull…

Hunters who participate in the tooth submission program receive an age report and a Black Bear Cooperator hat. If you lose your bear tooth envelope, call 919-707-0050 to have a new envelope sent to you.

Harvest Check-In

Hunters are required to report bear harvests to the NCWRC within 24 hours. This data helps monitor bear populations and informs management decisions, allowing adjustments to hunting quotas and season lengths to ensure sustainability.

Important Note: Violations of bear hunting laws in North Carolina carry significant penalties. Hunting outside designated seasons or zones can result in fines starting at $250, with increased penalties for repeat offenses. Severe violations may lead to misdemeanor charges, jail time, and license revocation.

Revenue from your license fees goes directly back to wildlife management. Revenue from hunting licenses and Bear Management E-Stamps supports habitat restoration, population monitoring, and public education. The NCWRC partners with universities and research institutions to study bear behavior, genetics, and ecology.

More like this: Can You Own a Tiger in Virginia? What the Law Actually Says Tigers are among the most powerful and awe-inspiring animals on the planet — and for some people, that fascination crosses…

Bear Hunting Zones and Units in North Carolina

North Carolina has established 22 Bear Management Zones. Each numbered region represents specific counties where black bear populations are monitored and regulated for sustainable wildlife management and hunting practices.

The three primary management units you need to know are:

Mountain Bear Management Unit: Covers counties in and west of Surry, Wilkes, Caldwell, Burke, and Cleveland. This unit features two separate season segments and has historically shorter seasons due to different ecological conditions in the highlands.

Piedmont Bear Management Unit: Covers counties including Franklin, Harnett, Hoke, Johnston, Moore, Richmond, Scotland, Vance, Wake, Warren, Alamance, Anson, Cabarrus, Caswell, Chatham, Davidson, Durham, Granville, Guilford, Lee, Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Orange, Person, Randolph, Rockingham, Rowan, Stanly, Union, Alexander, Catawba, Davie, Forsyth, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Stokes, and Yadkin, with season dates ranging from mid-October through January 1 depending on county grouping.

Coastal Bear Management Unit: The Coastal Bear Management Unit often has longer seasons due to its dense bear population. This zone is known for producing some of the biggest black bears in the nation.

Designated Bear Management Areas

It shall be unlawful to take bear on posted Designated Bear Management Areas except when authorized by permit issued by the Commission. For the 2025–2026 season, three additional Designated Bear Management Areas were opened for hunting by permit only: Panthertown-Bonas Defeat, Pisgah, and Standing Indian.

On Designated Bear Management Areas, dogs may not be used to pursue bear, except during permit hunts that specifically allow hunting bear with dogs. If you plan to hunt one of these areas, apply for a permit through the NCWRC well in advance of the season. You can also review coyote hunting laws in North Carolina for additional context on how the state manages hunting access on game lands.

Just for you: Can You Own a Wolf in Minnesota? What State Law Actually Says Minnesota is home to one of the largest wild gray wolf populations in the contiguous United States, so it is…

Tips for a Successful Bear Hunt in North Carolina

Putting a bear tag on a North Carolina black bear takes preparation, patience, and an understanding of bear behavior across the state’s diverse terrain. With strong populations, good public land access, and a supportive management system, North Carolina is a top-tier bear state for those willing to put in the work.

Scouting and Sign Reading

Coastal bears tend to follow food-rich river bottoms, agricultural fields, and thick bay swamps. Cornfields, peanut crops, and natural mast are key feeding areas. In the mountains, bears travel high ridges and feed heavily on acorns, hickory nuts, and wild berries. Movement increases during the rut and pre-hibernation feeding windows.

Trail cameras and sign-scouting — tracks, scat, and clawed trees — are essential tools for patterning bear activity. Scouting the ground for bear signs such as tracks and scat is crucial to pattern bear activity before the season opens.

Choosing Your Hunting Method

Successful black bear hunting often involves a combination of spot-and-stalk tactics, baiting (where legal), and using dogs to track bears. The method chosen can depend greatly on the terrain and the individual hunter’s preference.

Explore related: Rabies Vaccine Requirements for Ferrets in Missouri: What You Need to Know Rabies is a public health concern that Missouri takes seriously, and ferret owners are not exempt from the state's vaccination…

Still-hunting and stand hunting are also effective, especially around natural food sources and bait in the east. If you are new to the state or unfamiliar with the terrain, consider a guided hunt. Newcomers to black bear hunting or those unfamiliar with North Carolina’s terrain may find guided tours beneficial. Guides provide invaluable local knowledge, increase safety, and generally improve the chances of a successful hunt.

Pro Tip: Book guided hunts 6–12 months ahead for prime dates, especially during peak seasons. Coastal swamp hunts in Hyde and Tyrrell counties fill up quickly due to the area’s reputation for trophy-class bears.

Gear and Safety Essentials

Essential gear for black bear hunting includes a reliable firearm or bow, appropriate ammunition or arrows, camouflage clothing, and scent control products to mask human odor. Additionally, investing in good quality optics can greatly enhance your ability to spot bears from a distance.

Blaze orange is an important safety consideration during firearm seasons. Blaze orange is required during open gun deer seasons on public game lands and is strongly recommended on private land. Since bear and deer seasons often overlap, wearing blaze orange keeps you visible to other hunters in the field.

Discover similar: Is It Illegal to Feed Deer in Wisconsin? What the Law Actually Says Whether you want to attract deer to your backyard or you're a hunter wondering what's allowed near your stand, the…

Know the Sunday Rules

Sunday restrictions follow the same pattern as deer hunting — private land only, with firearm time restrictions during church hours. There is no Sunday hunting on public game lands, period. Plan your public land hunts on weekdays or Saturdays to avoid any compliance issues.

Stay Informed Year to Year

Season dates, bag limits, and zone boundaries can change each year. Always consult the current NCWRC regulations digest before hunting. Signing up for NCWRC email alerts is one of the easiest ways to stay current on any mid-season rule changes or emergency closures.

If you enjoy hunting other species across the Carolinas, explore dove hunting season in North Carolina, bass fishing season in North Carolina, and trout fishing season in North Carolina to make the most of your time outdoors. For hunters who cross state lines, turkey hunting season in South Carolina and dove hunting season in South Carolina are also worth bookmarking.

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Spread the love for animals! 🐾

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# contentMap.en
Spread the love for animals! 🐾

Facebook Flipboard Reddit Pinterest X Threads WhatsApp

North Carolina is one of the top states in the eastern United States for black bear hunting, and for good reason. The state’s black bear population is one of the densest in North America, especially in the coastal and mountainous regions. Whether you are planning your first bear hunt or returning for another season, understanding the rules set by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) is the foundation of a legal, ethical, and successful outing.

From season dates and management zones to licensing requirements and harvest reporting, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about bear hunting season in North Carolina. Always verify current dates and rules with the official NCWRC regulations digest before heading afield, as regulations are subject to annual changes.

Bear Species You Can Hunt in North Carolina

North Carolina has only one huntable bear species: the American black bear (Ursus americanus). The state is home to a healthy black bear population concentrated in two regions — the coastal plain of the east and the mountain counties of the west. These two distinct populations have shaped how the NCWRC structures its management zones, season dates, and regulations.

The Coastal Zone, particularly Hyde, Beaufort, and Tyrrell counties, is known for producing some of the biggest black bears in the nation. Bears there feed on crops, swamp vegetation, and mast. The Albemarle-Pamlico Peninsula holds one of the densest black bear populations on the East Coast.

Featured content: Can You Own a Kangaroo in Maine? What the Law Actually Requires Kangaroos are among the most recognizable animals on the planet, and it turns out that owning one in Maine is…

The Mountain Zone, including Cherokee, Graham, and Haywood counties, offers rugged terrain, hardwood ridges, and classic mountain bear pursuits, where both dog hunters and still-hunters find success on public and game lands.

Key Insight: Regardless of where you hunt, all black bears in North Carolina are protected under the same core restrictions. It is unlawful to take a cub (less than 75 pounds) or a female bear with cubs.

Piedmont transition areas, though less traditional for bear hunting, hold expanding populations in some central counties and offer new opportunities for still-hunters. If you are hunting in a newer or less-traditional area, confirm zone boundaries carefully before your hunt. You can also review when bears come out of hibernation in North Carolina to better understand seasonal bear activity.

Bear Hunting Season Dates in North Carolina

Bear hunting in North Carolina is divided into distinct management zones with specific season dates and methods. The state offers opportunities for both archery and firearm hunters, with seasons structured to manage harvest across different bear populations. Below are the season dates from the 2025–2026 NCWRC regulations digest.

Latest update: Are Ferrets Legal in New York? What Owners Need to Know Ferrets are among the most misunderstood pets when it comes to state law, and New York is a perfect example…

Management Unit | Season Dates (2025–2026) | Notes
Mountain Bear Management Unit | Oct. 4 – Nov. 22, 2025 & Dec. 13, 2025 – Jan. 1, 2026 | Both segments now open on Saturdays
Piedmont Bear Management Unit (select counties) | Oct. 18, 2025 – Jan. 1, 2026 | Dates vary by county group
Piedmont Bear Management Unit (additional counties) | Nov. 15, 2025 – Jan. 1, 2026 | See county-specific listings
Piedmont Bear Management Unit (remaining counties) | Nov. 22, 2025 – Jan. 1, 2026 | See county-specific listings
Coastal Bear Management Unit | Nov. 8 – 23 & Dec. 10, 2025 – Jan. 1, 2026 | Some counties open Nov. 7 per local law

For the Mountain Unit specifically, the 2025–2026 bear season runs October 4 – November 22, 2025, and December 13, 2025 – January 1, 2026. The length of the mountain bear seasons increased by 11 days for 2025–2026, with both segments now opening on Saturdays, and all hunters may use unprocessed food during the second segment.

Important Note: Bear seasons are set annually based on population surveys, so exact dates for future seasons will not be finalized until closer to the season. Bear seasons typically follow a pattern of October and December hunting blocks, but specific dates depend on annual population assessments and harvest quotas. Always check the current NCWRC digest before you plan your trip.

If you enjoy hunting other big game in the state, be sure to review the deer hunting season in North Carolina and turkey hunting season in North Carolina to plan a full season calendar.

Bear Hunting Licenses and Tags in North Carolina

Before you set foot in the field, you need to have the correct licenses and stamps in order. Obtaining the proper permits and licenses is essential for bear hunting in North Carolina. Hunters must have a valid North Carolina hunting license, available to residents and non-residents for varying fees, and a Bear Management E-Stamp is required, which supports conservation programs and research.

Here is a breakdown of what you need based on residency status, as reported by hunting sources citing 2025–2026 fee schedules:

Check this out: Can You Own a Lion in Tennessee? What the Law Actually Says The idea of owning a lion captures the imagination, but the legal reality in Tennessee is far more restrictive than…

Resident hunters: State Hunting License ($30) plus Big Game Privilege ($17 residents). You also need a Bear Management Stamp ($14 for residents).

Non-resident hunters: Non-residents pay $119 for a State Hunting License, $119 for Big Game Privilege, and $284 for a Bear License if hunting bears.

Pro Tip: Hunting licenses can be purchased online at ncwildlife.org or through authorized license agents throughout the state. Purchase your bear e-stamp well before the season opens — once you have your e-stamp, the NCWRC will mail you a bear tooth envelope that you will need for mandatory harvest reporting.

North Carolina requires hunter education certification for anyone born on or after August 1, 1974. Both in-person and online-plus-field-day course formats are available. An Apprentice Hunting License allows first-time hunters to hunt under the direct supervision of a licensed adult while completing their education requirement.

You can also explore bow hunting laws in North Carolina if you plan to pursue bear with archery equipment, as additional equipment standards apply.

Legal Methods and Weapons for Bear Hunting in North Carolina

Hunters may pursue black bears with rifles, shotguns, muzzleloaders, archery equipment, and crossbows. The regulations specify approved weapons, including rifles, shotguns, and archery equipment, with minimum caliber and draw weight requirements to ensure humane practices. Rifles must be at least .24 caliber, and archery equipment must have a minimum draw weight of 40 pounds.

Related content: Can You Own a Sugar Glider in Colorado? What State Law Actually Says If you've been thinking about bringing a sugar glider home in Colorado, you're probably wondering whether the state even allows…

Rifle hunters often favor larger calibers for bear. Rifles are the most popular choice for bear hunting, offering accuracy and power over long distances. Common calibers used for black bear hunting include .30-06 Springfield, .308 Winchester, .45-70 Government, and 7mm Remington Magnum. For those who prefer a more challenging approach, black bear archery hunts are becoming increasingly popular. Hunters heading out with compound bows should opt for a draw weight of at least 50 pounds, although higher is preferable.

Hunting with Dogs

Hunting bears with dogs is a longstanding tradition in North Carolina, but the rules vary by county. Counties where unprocessed food and the use of dogs are both allowed all season are distinct from counties where unprocessed food is allowed all season but hunting with dogs is prohibited.

Hunting bears with dogs is prohibited in the following counties or parts of counties: Alamance south of I-85, Anson west of N.C. Hwy 742, Cabarrus, Chatham, Davie, Davidson, Forsyth, Gaston, Guilford, Lee, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Orange south of I-85, Pamlico (per local law), Randolph, Rockingham, Rowan, Stanly, Union, and Wake south of N.C. Hwy 98. In all other counties, hunting bears with the use of dogs is legal during open bear seasons, but restrictions may apply on game lands.

Baiting Rules

In all counties, unprocessed foods may be used to aid in the taking of bear during any open season for bear. However, the definition of what qualifies as “unprocessed” is specific. For purposes of bear baiting regulations, “bait” means a natural, unprocessed food product that is a grain, fruit, nut, vegetable, or other material harvested from a plant crop that is not modified from its raw components.

More story: Rabies Vaccine Requirements for Ferrets in Virginia Virginia is home to a healthy population of ferret owners, and rabies is a real public health concern across the…

Common Mistake: Bears shall not be taken with the use or aid of processed food products, animals, animal parts or products, salt, salt licks, honey, sugar, sugar-based materials, syrups, candy, pastry, gum, candy blocks, oils, spices, or peanut butter. Using any of these substances is a violation, even if placed by someone else.

For a broader look at how hunting methods are regulated across the state, see hunting laws in South Carolina for a useful comparison with a neighboring state.

Bag Limits and Harvest Reporting Requirements in North Carolina

North Carolina enforces strict bag limits and mandatory reporting requirements for bear hunters. The daily bag limit for bear is one, the possession limit is one, and the season limit is one. This applies statewide across all management units.

Mandatory Bear Tooth Submission

It is mandatory to submit at least one premolar tooth from your harvested bear by January 31st following the applicable bear hunting season. After pulling both upper premolar teeth, place one of the teeth in the bear tooth envelope you received in the mail from the Commission. Save the other tooth as a backup until you have been notified by the Commission that your tooth was received.

See also: Is It Illegal to Feed Deer in Texas? What You Need to Know Before You Feed Texas is home to one of the largest deer populations in North America, and many residents feel a natural pull…

Hunters who participate in the tooth submission program receive an age report and a Black Bear Cooperator hat. If you lose your bear tooth envelope, call 919-707-0050 to have a new envelope sent to you.

Harvest Check-In

Hunters are required to report bear harvests to the NCWRC within 24 hours. This data helps monitor bear populations and informs management decisions, allowing adjustments to hunting quotas and season lengths to ensure sustainability.

Important Note: Violations of bear hunting laws in North Carolina carry significant penalties. Hunting outside designated seasons or zones can result in fines starting at $250, with increased penalties for repeat offenses. Severe violations may lead to misdemeanor charges, jail time, and license revocation.

Revenue from your license fees goes directly back to wildlife management. Revenue from hunting licenses and Bear Management E-Stamps supports habitat restoration, population monitoring, and public education. The NCWRC partners with universities and research institutions to study bear behavior, genetics, and ecology.

More like this: Can You Own a Tiger in Virginia? What the Law Actually Says Tigers are among the most powerful and awe-inspiring animals on the planet — and for some people, that fascination crosses…

Bear Hunting Zones and Units in North Carolina

North Carolina has established 22 Bear Management Zones. Each numbered region represents specific counties where black bear populations are monitored and regulated for sustainable wildlife management and hunting practices.

The three primary management units you need to know are:

Mountain Bear Management Unit: Covers counties in and west of Surry, Wilkes, Caldwell, Burke, and Cleveland. This unit features two separate season segments and has historically shorter seasons due to different ecological conditions in the highlands.

Piedmont Bear Management Unit: Covers counties including Franklin, Harnett, Hoke, Johnston, Moore, Richmond, Scotland, Vance, Wake, Warren, Alamance, Anson, Cabarrus, Caswell, Chatham, Davidson, Durham, Granville, Guilford, Lee, Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Orange, Person, Randolph, Rockingham, Rowan, Stanly, Union, Alexander, Catawba, Davie, Forsyth, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Stokes, and Yadkin, with season dates ranging from mid-October through January 1 depending on county grouping.

Coastal Bear Management Unit: The Coastal Bear Management Unit often has longer seasons due to its dense bear population. This zone is known for producing some of the biggest black bears in the nation.

Designated Bear Management Areas

It shall be unlawful to take bear on posted Designated Bear Management Areas except when authorized by permit issued by the Commission. For the 2025–2026 season, three additional Designated Bear Management Areas were opened for hunting by permit only: Panthertown-Bonas Defeat, Pisgah, and Standing Indian.

On Designated Bear Management Areas, dogs may not be used to pursue bear, except during permit hunts that specifically allow hunting bear with dogs. If you plan to hunt one of these areas, apply for a permit through the NCWRC well in advance of the season. You can also review coyote hunting laws in North Carolina for additional context on how the state manages hunting access on game lands.

Just for you: Can You Own a Wolf in Minnesota? What State Law Actually Says Minnesota is home to one of the largest wild gray wolf populations in the contiguous United States, so it is…

Tips for a Successful Bear Hunt in North Carolina

Putting a bear tag on a North Carolina black bear takes preparation, patience, and an understanding of bear behavior across the state’s diverse terrain. With strong populations, good public land access, and a supportive management system, North Carolina is a top-tier bear state for those willing to put in the work.

Scouting and Sign Reading

Coastal bears tend to follow food-rich river bottoms, agricultural fields, and thick bay swamps. Cornfields, peanut crops, and natural mast are key feeding areas. In the mountains, bears travel high ridges and feed heavily on acorns, hickory nuts, and wild berries. Movement increases during the rut and pre-hibernation feeding windows.

Trail cameras and sign-scouting — tracks, scat, and clawed trees — are essential tools for patterning bear activity. Scouting the ground for bear signs such as tracks and scat is crucial to pattern bear activity before the season opens.

Choosing Your Hunting Method

Successful black bear hunting often involves a combination of spot-and-stalk tactics, baiting (where legal), and using dogs to track bears. The method chosen can depend greatly on the terrain and the individual hunter’s preference.

Explore related: Rabies Vaccine Requirements for Ferrets in Missouri: What You Need to Know Rabies is a public health concern that Missouri takes seriously, and ferret owners are not exempt from the state's vaccination…

Still-hunting and stand hunting are also effective, especially around natural food sources and bait in the east. If you are new to the state or unfamiliar with the terrain, consider a guided hunt. Newcomers to black bear hunting or those unfamiliar with North Carolina’s terrain may find guided tours beneficial. Guides provide invaluable local knowledge, increase safety, and generally improve the chances of a successful hunt.

Pro Tip: Book guided hunts 6–12 months ahead for prime dates, especially during peak seasons. Coastal swamp hunts in Hyde and Tyrrell counties fill up quickly due to the area’s reputation for trophy-class bears.

Gear and Safety Essentials

Essential gear for black bear hunting includes a reliable firearm or bow, appropriate ammunition or arrows, camouflage clothing, and scent control products to mask human odor. Additionally, investing in good quality optics can greatly enhance your ability to spot bears from a distance.

Blaze orange is an important safety consideration during firearm seasons. Blaze orange is required during open gun deer seasons on public game lands and is strongly recommended on private land. Since bear and deer seasons often overlap, wearing blaze orange keeps you visible to other hunters in the field.

Discover similar: Is It Illegal to Feed Deer in Wisconsin? What the Law Actually Says Whether you want to attract deer to your backyard or you're a hunter wondering what's allowed near your stand, the…

Know the Sunday Rules

Sunday restrictions follow the same pattern as deer hunting — private land only, with firearm time restrictions during church hours. There is no Sunday hunting on public game lands, period. Plan your public land hunts on weekdays or Saturdays to avoid any compliance issues.

Stay Informed Year to Year

Season dates, bag limits, and zone boundaries can change each year. Always consult the current NCWRC regulations digest before hunting. Signing up for NCWRC email alerts is one of the easiest ways to stay current on any mid-season rule changes or emergency closures.

If you enjoy hunting other species across the Carolinas, explore dove hunting season in North Carolina, bass fishing season in North Carolina, and trout fishing season in North Carolina to make the most of your time outdoors. For hunters who cross state lines, turkey hunting season in South Carolina and dove hunting season in South Carolina are also worth bookmarking.

Discover more content like this

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Bear Hunting Season in North Carolina: Dates, Zones, and Regulations You Need to Know

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Bear Hunting Season in North Carolina: Dates, Zones, and Regulations You Need to Know

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North Carolina is one of the top states in the eastern United States for black bear hunting, and for good reason. The state's black bear population is one of the densest in North America, especially in the coastal and mountainous regions. Whether you are planning your first bear hunt or returning for another season, understanding the rules set by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) is the foundation of a legal, ethical, and successful outing.

From season dates and […]

# summary
North Carolina is one of the top states in the eastern United States for black bear hunting, and for good reason. The state's black bear population is one of the densest in North America, especially in the coastal and mountainous regions. Whether you are planning your first bear hunt or returning for another season, understanding the rules set by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) is the foundation of a legal, ethical, and successful outing.

From season dates and […]

# summaryMap.en
North Carolina is one of the top states in the eastern United States for black bear hunting, and for good reason. The state's black bear population is one of the densest in North America, especially in the coastal and mountainous regions. Whether you are planning your first bear hunt or returning for another season, understanding the rules set by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) is the foundation of a legal, ethical, and successful outing.

From season dates and […]