There were 52 bears harvested during Florida’s first bear season since 2015. Through a random drawing a total of 172 permits were issued across the East Panhandle, North, Central and South Bear Management Units (BMU). Each permit allowed the harvest of one bear within the assigned Bear Hunting Zone (BHZ).
Hunter success rate was very close to other states with similar hunt parameters. All harvested bears were physically checked by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) staff and bear response contractors. Data provided will influence future management strategies. Analysis of the collected information is underway.
“The 2025 black bear hunt, rooted in sound scientific data, was a success. We’re proud to have joined the more than 30 states that manage black bears with regulated hunting,” said FWC Executive Director Roger Young. “The limited number of permits issued in areas with the largest bear populations and other components of the hunt prioritized a conservative approach that ensures the long-term health of bear populations in Florida, while providing opportunity for hunters.”
After FWC staff presented options on highly regulated black bear hunting, and the public provided their comments at the August and November 2025 Commission meetings, FWC Commissioners approved final proposed amendments to bear hunting rules. They took effect during the 2025 hunting season.
“Hunting is an effective tool for managing wildlife populations around the world and is a key part of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation,” said FWC Chief Conservation Officer George Warthen. “It’s about helping bears succeed over the long term in our state and is a way for us to guide an iconic Florida species into the future, for their benefit and ours.”
The FWC Division of Law Enforcement allocated additional resources to support a productive hunt while maintaining accountability among participants. Increased officer engagement and hunter education led to strong compliance with hunting regulations. Out of numerous positive interactions between officers and hunters, only one hunter received a warning for a minor Wildlife Management Area violation. No citations were issued. Additionally, the Division of Law Enforcement investigated all reported wildlife violations, and no wildlife violations were found.
A temporary injunction in November ended a lawsuit leveled by animal extremists to halt the hunt. Unsatisfied by the court’s decision an effort was mounted by the frustrated plaintiffs to apply for bear permits, who planned to leave them unused.
