TALLAHASSEE — Florida wildlife officials say its 2025 black bear hunt was a success, with 52 bears harvested under strict new rules designed to manage growing populations while prioritizing conservation.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission approved the changes after staff presentations and public input at meetings in August and November 2025. The amendments created Bear Hunting Zones in four of the state’s seven Bear Management Units: East Panhandle, North, Central and South.
Wildlife officials say 172 permits were issued through a random drawing, each allowing hunters to take one bear in their assigned zone during the 2025 season. The hunter success rate mirrored those in other states with comparable hunts, according to officials.
All harvested bears were inspected by FWC staff and contractors, yielding data that will shape future strategies. A full harvest report is expected soon.
“The 2025 black bear hunt, rooted in sound scientific data, was a success,” FWC Executive Director Roger Young said in a statement. “We’re proud to have joined the more than 30 states that manage black bears with regulated hunting.”
Young added that the limited permits, focused on areas with the largest bear populations, ensured a conservative approach to sustain the species long-term while offering hunting opportunities.
FWC Chief Conservation Officer George Warthen emphasized hunting’s role in wildlife management. “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,” he said.
While regulated hunting aids overall management, but does not directly reduce human-bear conflicts, which require ongoing prevention efforts.
Officers issued just one warning for a minor Wildlife Management Area violation, with no citations or confirmed wildlife infractions. Overall, officials say the hunt had strong compliance.
“Our officers maintained a strong, engaged presence throughout the hunt to help ensure it was conducted safely and legally,” said Col. Alberto Maza, director of the FWC Division of Law Enforcement. “While our officers were there to uphold the rules, the primary focus was education.”
For more on bear hunting rules and FAQs, visit the 2025 Guide to Bear Hunting in Florida.
