Bear Hunters: Season Closed May 15 in Some Units

Lewiston area black bear hunters are reminded that the spring hunting season extension in big game management units 14, 15 and 18 does not go into effect until spring 2010. This change for 2010, designed to allow additional hunting opportunity, involves extending the spring season in units 14, 15 and 18 by 16 days to end May 31, 2010. The 2009 season in these units closed May 15. Big game seasons are adopted by the Idaho Fish and Game Commission in March for seasons that take place during the upcoming fall and the spring of the next year. As a result, spring bear and lion seasons are set well in advance and all information concerning the 2009 spring black bear season can be reviewed in the 2008 big game rules brochure. Hunters are also reminded that certain units in the Clearwater Region allow the use of bait and dogs, while others do not. Hunters who have obtained permits to hunt over bait must remove all bait containers, materials and any structure constructed at bait sites within seven days after the close of the season. Successful bear hunters are required to present both the skull and hide to an Idaho Fish and Game regional office, conservation officer or official checkpoint for removal of a premolar and have the pelt tagged within 10 days of harvest. Successful hunters are also required to remove all bear meat from the field.