Applying for the Draw| Guided Black Bear Hunts

To participate in Utah’s draw black bear hunts, you must apply for a permit through the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR). Here’s how:

Obtain a Valid Hunting License: Before applying, ensure you have a current Utah hunting or combination license.

Application Period: The application window typically opens in late January and closes in mid February. Be sure to apply within this timeframe.

Choose Your Hunt Type:

• Limited-Entry Permits: Offer access to specific units with set quotas.
• Harvest-Objective Permits: Allow hunting until the unit’s quota is met.

Apply Online: Submit your application through the Utah Hunt Portal.

Orientation Course: If you draw a permit, you must complete a mandatory bear hunting orientation course before hunting black bear.

What to Expect | Guided Black Bear Hunts

Success rates for black bear hunting in Southern Utah vary based on hunting methods, seasons, and specific units. We provide Hound-Assisted hunts which offer hunters the best opportunity at success.

Hound-Assisted Hunts

Hunting with trained hounds is among the most effective methods in Southern Utah’s rugged terrain. While exact statewide success rates are not specified, this method yields higher success due to the hounds’ ability to track and tree bears efficiently.

Factors Influencing Success

Several factors can impact your hunting success:

• Physical fitness: Keeping pace with hounds as they trail bears through canyons and plateaus will be a big benefit to hunters.
• Season Timing: Spring hunts coincide with bears coming out of their dens and spending time foraging heavily to replenish lost body weight.
• Hunter Experience: Decades of experience with black bear behavior during the spring season and top quality bear hounds ensures the best potential for harvest.

Enhancing Your Hunting Experience

Partnering with experienced outfitters, such as Jake Bess Hunting, can significantly improve your chances. Their knowledge of local bear populations, terrain, and regulations ensures a more productive and enjoyable hunt.

For detailed information on specific units and regulations, consult the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources’ Big Game Harvest & Survey Data.

Hunts Include | Utah Black Bear Hunts

At Jake Bess Hunting, we are committed to providing a high-quality, personalized elk hunting experience. Every hunt is fully guided and designed to give you the best possible chance at success while making the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Below is a list of what’s included with your hunt to ensure you’re fully prepared for the adventure ahead.

• • All field transportation during the hunt

  • Opportunity to harvest a black bear

  • Field dressing, cleaning, and skinning of your bear

What’s NOT Included:

• • Utah hunting licenses/ permits

  • Weapons

  • Personal hunting gear

  • Processing of game

Preparing For Your Hunt|Guided Black Bear Hunts

Before hunting in Utah, ensure compliance with state regulations:

Hunter Education: Individuals born after December 31, 1965, must complete a hunter education course approved by the DWR. 

Licenses and Permits: A valid hunting license is required, and specific permits must be obtained for black bear hunting. Licenses and harvest objective permits can be purchased online or at authorized vendors. Draw permits must be obtained through the draw.

Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the Utah Big Game Field Regulations to understand season dates, legal hunting methods, and other important rules.

Black bear hunt gear list: 

• • All licenses, tags, etc.
  • Quality hiking boots with good ankle support
  • Layered clothing as temperatures can vary greatly
  • Headlamp
  • Backpack (lightweight)
  • Water bottle (Nalgene)
  • Knife
  • Check with the guide prior to departure for all other recommendations based on hunt conditions and weather.

For more information on hunter’s education or licensing, contact Utah Department of Fish and Game.

Additional Hunts | Utah Hunting

Elk Hunts

Bison Hunts