After The Thaw: Manitoban Black Bears and Walleye

by
posted on June 9, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
olsen_bear_f.jpg

Lake Agassiz covered much of south-central Canada and parts of the north-central United States. Believed to have encompassed more than 170,000 square miles, this prehistoric glacial lake does not exist today, but its footprint does. Within this basin sits Lake Manitoba and, more specifically, The Narrows—a pinch point in the lake which provides for incredible walleye fishing. It's also the home of Narrows Outfitters. Surrounding the lake is what seems like never-ending farmland with woodlots filled with wildlife—like black bears. The spring hunting season for bear begins in late April so we teamed up with Savage, Bushnell and Primos to get a taste of what Canadian spring bear hunting is all about.

Southern Manitoba sees about 45 to 50 inches of snowfall each winter and temperatures that drop to -40°F. Because of these harsh conditions, bears go into hibernation until the weather breaks. This allows for hunting over bait and since these bears are awake and hungry, the action is quite incredible.

Latest

250 Savage Lede
250 Savage Lede

Wildcat Cartridges: Why and Why Not?

Have a hankering to own a rifle chambered in a unique cartridge? Before dropping the cash, you should understand the advantages and drawbacks of selecting one.

New for 2026: Moultrie Edge 4 Series

Moultrie has introduced the Edge 4 series, the first cellular trail camera line built to recognize target bucks and fire a max-resolution cropped image to your phone, before you even set foot in the woods. The Edge 4 is waterproof, has enhanced night clarity and all-season power options built for every piece of ground.

Behind the Bullet: The .333 Jeffery

Delve into the history of one of the most fascinating cartridges from the golden era of hunting—the .333 Jeffery.

First Look: ALPS Mountaineering Reservoir 3.0

ALPS Mountaineering has introduced the Reservoir 3.0 hydration bladder. The Reservoir 3.0 features an anti-microbial IonPure treatment that helps inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold, keeping the hydration system fresher between uses.

Cape Buffalo Hunt: The Measure of Memories

It takes too much time, effort and money to hunt Cape buffalo to rush a shot.

New for 2026: Sightmark Strikon VMP 1-4x22mm

Sightmark has released the Strikon VMP 1-4x22mm SFP Fiber V2 Prismatic Riflescope, an updated version of its original variable magnification prismatic sight developed in direct response to shooter feedback.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.