![Best Western States for Over-the-Counter Bear Hunting](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/627c2edba2dd1b1c72c1340f/1713903834652-AYII6GNP50HHQ1F1E8EY/Holding+Bear+Paw+Vert.jpg)
Best Western States for Over-the-Counter Bear Hunting
Learn about the best western states for over-the-counter black bear hunting.
![Fall Black Bears: Your Next Great Backup Plan](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/627c2edba2dd1b1c72c1340f/1713901611897-C8SELVSE8KYQ2X914ERH/IMG_3273.jpg)
Fall Black Bears: Your Next Great Backup Plan
If you don’t draw this year, instead of shifting plans and experiencing the wrath of HR or the family calendar, consider substituting for an over-the-counter bear license.
![How to Hunt Fall Black Bears](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/627c2edba2dd1b1c72c1340f/1709399417527-XJCRBCXCS8A76FY8S2UB/How+to+hunt+Fall+Bears+Header.png)
How to Hunt Fall Black Bears
Finding bears as they switch to their fall-time habits is a different game than hunting them in April and May. If you know what to look for when fall bear hunting, it can be a great hunt to knock the rust off, and test new gear before the long hunting season begins.