Early black bear season begins Sept. 17 in St. Lawrence County.

In northern New York, the early bear season runs from Sept. 17 to Oct. 14 in wildlife management units 5A, 5C, 5F, 5G, 5H, 5J, 6C, 6F, 6H, and 6J.

Bowhunting season for bears also begins on Sept.17 in Northern Zone WMUs 6A, 6G, 6K and 6N. Muzzleloader season opens in all northern WMUs on Oct. 15, followed by the regular firearms season for bears on Oct. 22.

During the early season, eligible bear hunters may use a bow, crossbow, muzzleloader, handgun, shotgun, or rifle where allowed. Because of the likelihood of warm weather, bear hunters should be prepared to skin and cool harvested bears as soon as possible to protect the quality of the meat. Hunters may opt to skin and quarter the bear in the field, then pack out the meat in game bags to a waiting cooler of ice.

DEC regulates black bear hunting in order to manage healthy bear populations and limit bear nuisances.

Commissioner Basil Seggos says early bear season is crucial to controlling populations.

“Early black bear hunting seasons are an important tool for managers to control and maintain healthy bear populations,” said Commissioner Seggos. “Bears are feeding heavily this time of year, gorging on wild nuts and berries and corn in the field if they can find it. Hunters can increase the odds of finding a bear by keying in on concentrated natural food sources.”

Information about black bear hunting in New York, including season dates and regulations, is available at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7857.html. Additionally, DEC’s booklet Hunting the Black Bear in New York (www.dec.ny.gov/docs/wildlife_pdf/bbhunting10.PDF), includes tips on bear hunting and proper care of harvested bears.