Spring Black Bear Hunts

Early Spot and Stock Hunts in Hells Canyon

Hells Canyon low elevation and steep canyon walls create very temperate weather in the early spring. The temperate climate produces acres of tender lush grass that is utilized by wintering game herds and emergent black bears. This is a great opportunity to observe and harvest prime pelt bears feeding in their natural habitat. Hunting camp is accessed by jet boat on the Snake River and saddle stock. Hunters typically see multiple bears and many are different color phases. Blonde, brown, and cinnamon are common color phases as well as black. Mild canyon conditions and diverse forage opportunities produce large bodied bears ranging from six to eight feet in length. Our terrain is very open with scattered timber and is a pleasure to glass and observe a wide range of wildlife during the early spring.

Spotting and stocking is the preferred technique to pursue early prime pelted bears. Daily hunts will be conducted on saddle stock and foot from base camp. Early spring bear are primarily herbaceous and are grazing on the lush spring green grass. Ingestion of the grasses helps acclimate the bears digestive system after hibernation. Grazing bears are more active during the low light hours of dawn and dusk. Hunting days are geared toward being at observation points during these times of high activity.

Hunters can expect to stay in a traditional wilderness wall tent camp.

Camp includes:

• Cook tent
• Hunters sleeping tent
• Guide tent
• Outhouse
• Portable hot shower

Hunters sleeping tents are 12x14 ft. wall tents with 5 ft. walls that include a wood stove, quality cots, comfortable and clean sleeping pads and a lantern for light. Home-style breakfasts, dinners and a large brown bag lunch will be prepared daily. Professional guides and cooks will add to this unique spring bear hunt.

Spring Bear over Bait or with Hounds

Once Hells Canyon becomes too warm and the bears move higher in elevation our operation changes to bait and hound hunting as harvesting techniques. Baits are placed near snow line in May and are baited regularly. Baits are not over hunted or molested in adverse weather conditions to prevent nocturnal feeding activity at the bait site. The bear hunting area adjoins vast expanses of rugged terrain that serves as a reservoir for trophy sized black bear every year.

Baits are of natural construction with varying distances from the tree stand to accommodate both archery and firearm hunters. Comfortable and safe stands are used with mandatory use of a safety harness. This type of hunting is very productive with annual hunter's opportunity success at 100%. Many different color phase bears are harvested in this hunting area.

Hounds are always on hand and can be used to pursue bear. Trailing and treeing spring bear can be challenging and exciting. Hunters interested in running hounds should be in good physical condition to ensure a safe successful hunt.

Hunters can expect a wall tent camp accessible by saddle stock and ATVs.

Camp includes:

• Cook tent
• Hunters sleeping tent
• Guide tent
• Outhouse
• Portable hot shower

ATVs and saddle stock will be used to travel to and from baits and hunting areas. Home-style breakfasts, dinners and a large brown bag lunch will be prepared daily.

September bear hunts over bait or with hounds are available upon request. Fall bears are normally heavier, respond to bait well and tend to tree easier with the hounds.

Reserve your hunt
Bear Hunting Checklist

Hells Canyon Outfitters, DBA - Licensed, Bonded and Insured - Russell Gilmore - Outfitter #13906
2207 Dent Bridge Rd., Orofino, ID 83544
Phone: 208-816-6413 Fax: 208-476-7821
Email:

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