The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) took a significant step this week towards potentially reintroducing a regulated bear hunting season, voting in Ocala to approve proposed rule amendments for advertisement in the Florida Administrative Register.
These proposals are slated for a final hearing at the Commission’s August 2025 meeting, with most changes, if approved, taking effect during the 2025-26 hunting season.
The move comes after months of deliberation, public input, and a comprehensive review of the state’s burgeoning black bear population.
READ: FWC Confirms First Fatal Black Bear Attack In Florida History
The FWC’s Bear Management Program delivered a 5-year update on the 2019 Florida Black Bear Management Plan at the December 2024 Commission meeting, highlighting successful conservation efforts that have led to the species’ remarkable resurgence. Following this presentation, Commissioners directed staff to explore options for a potential bear hunt.
FWC staff presented various bear hunt options at the May 2025 meeting, incorporating feedback from a broad spectrum of stakeholders and public engagement.
This extensive outreach included public meetings on March 13, April 2, 3, and 5, as well as an online comment tool open from April 2 to 20, 2025. Between December 6, 2024, and April 20, 2025, the FWC received and compiled over 3,900 public comments, with the online tool alone generating more than 13,000 unique responses.
READ: Florida Anglers Reel In Record-Breaking Red Snapper Season For 2025
“The resurgence of the Florida black bear is not just a victory for conservationists; it’s a win for all Floridians,” stated Rodney Barreto, Chairman of the FWC. He emphasized the role of hunting as a management tool, adding, “Hunting is a biologically sound method to slow population growth, resulting in a healthy and well-managed Florida black bear population for the future.”
The proposed hunting regulations aim to manage population growth rates in specific Bear Management Units (BMUs) that currently harbor the largest bear subpopulations. The FWC asserts that balancing species population growth with available habitat is crucial for maintaining a healthy and sustainable population.
READ :Florida Residents Urged To Prepare As 2025 Outlook Eyes Active Hurricane Season
While advocating for hunting as an effective wildlife management tool, the FWC also stressed that a regulated hunt would not negate the need for continued conflict prevention and bear management practices.
Regardless of whether a regulated bear hunting season is ultimately approved, efforts to mitigate human-bear conflicts will remain a priority. The final decision on the future of bear hunting in Florida rests with the Commissioners at their August 2025 meeting.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
