The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Commission approved the expansion of black bear hunting areas from three last year to seven across the state this season. Black bear hunting has been legal for the last two years after being banned in 1987. LDWF large carnivore program manager John Hanks said tag allotments will be very conservative.
He said, “while we want to let the citizens of our state have an opportunity to use these animals, we also want to always have that opportunity.”
The total number of permits awarded this year is expected to increase from the 26 given out last season, but no official number has been set. Hanks said only 16 bears were successfully harvested last year.
“It’s an opportunity to go and hunt a bear if you when a lottery tag but it’s not a guarantee,” said Hanks. “It’s still a hunting season.”
Hunters may apply to take part in the tag lottery any time between July 28 and Aug. 28. Applicants must pay a non-refundable $25 bear hunting fee and a $50 permit fee and may apply for general, wildlife management area and private landowner permits; although they may only receive one. The 2026 season will begin Dec. 5 and run for 16 days. Hanks said receiving a black bear permit is not as simple as just paying an extra fee.
“You’re also required to come to a bear hunter education course to go through this class before you get your tag,” said Hanks. “It’s just not you pick up a gun and go hunting.”
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