Black bear hunting over bait
Baiting is the most widespread method for black bear in Quebec. In spring (May-June), you set up a bait site the bear visits regularly, then wait on stand in a tower stand or blind.
Setting and maintaining the bait
The site must be prepared several weeks before the hunt:
- Choose a spot on the edge of dense forest, near water
- Use legal baits (pastries, fat, grains; follow MFFP regulations)
- Replenish regularly and log the time of visits
- Set your stand 15-20 m away, downwind of the bear's likely approach
The wait
Bears mostly arrive late in the day. Get settled early, stay silent and patient until dark. Judge size carefully and identify a sow with cubs (it is illegal to shoot a bear accompanied by cubs).
Practical tips
- Wind direction is paramount: bears have an exceptional sense of smell
- Use a sufficient-caliber rifle or a crossbow for a clean shot to the vitals
- Keep the site clean and compliant: register it if required and respect your zone's quotas
- Bring a hunting knife for quick field dressing