Bear hunting in Alberta

Although Alberta lies within the grizzly bear population range, and the province allows “lethal control” a.k.a. killing of problem grizzlies, recreational bear hunting in Alberta is black bear hunting. Alberta has its fair share of big-bodied boars, quite commonly in cinnamon or chocolate color phase, in the boreal and foothills country. The best guided black bear hunts in Alberta are typically based in the Peace Country and northern boreal forest, where spring green-up pulls bears into cutblocks, road edges, and willow drains, and where outfitters can run proven setups away from pressure. Spring seasons generally run April through June (dates vary by WMU), with a strong fall window September–November—great for berry-fed bears and adding a second tag in units that offer supplemental licences. Most guided hunts are either baited stand hunts (legal only in specific WMUs and restricted where grizzlies occur) or classic spot-and-stalk/glass-and-go along cutlines and burns. Non-residents can hunt big game in Alberta only with a licensed outfitter/guide or an eligible Alberta hunter host. Expect pricing from roughly $4,500–$7,750+ USD for 5–7 day packages. Combination hunts include moose-bear, bear-whitetail/mule deer, and bear-wolf options. Most black bear lodges in Alberta can also offer you fishing for pike or walleye. Trophy logistics are straightforward. U.S. hunters can bring home a fresh/frozen/salted black bear trophy as accompanying baggage without a CITES export permit (taxidermy/shipping rules differ).