Bear Hunts – Overview

Boasting the largest black bear populations in the eastern U.S., hunters harvest approximately 3,400 of the estimated 27,000 in Maine annually. Conducting our hunts exclusively in Zone 1 with nearly 300,000 acres of hunting territory we have the largest territory of any outfitter within this zone. Situated in northwestern Maine along the Quebec border we are fortunate to have such vast uninterrupted commercial forestland neighboring Quebec. A combination of forestland, wild blueberry barrens and beech ridges provide perfect habitat to support many bear and trophy animals. Baiting for black bear is without a doubt the most productive and successful way to observe and harvest these northern Maine bruins.

Allagash Guide Service was one of the first outfitters to offer bear hunts in Allagash, we have been in business for thirty years. Many of our baits have been established for thirty years but active logging practices allow access to new land on an ongoing basis. Over the last 15 years we have been able to expand our hunting territory to its current level. Our philosophy of designating 2 bait sites per hunter each season assures hunters a high possibility of sightings and success. Due to our expansive territory and limited number of hunters over the course of a season we hunt different regions each week. So, not only do hunters get two sites per person they are always fresh and unhunted prior to your arrival, they are not left over sites from a previous week. If a bear is harvested on a site then the site is shut down until the following year, we do not believe in harvesting multiple bear from one site in the same season. Our guides work closely together throughout the season sharing information and notes trying to make sure each hunter are successful.

Tree stands and ground blinds are camouflaged to accommodate all hunting methods (bow, crossbow, rifle, handgun or blackpowder). Shooting distances range from 15 – 100 yards, due to the composition of the forest average shooting distances are 20 – 40 yards. State law allows preseason baiting for 30 days in advance of the hunting season, we take advantage of the baiting season by checking sites 12 – 15 times before they are hunted. Frequent baiting helps create a pattern of consistent activity which will produce opportunities for you.

There are many recreational activities to pass the morning hours. Hunters who score early in the week can choose coyote hunting, fishing, canoeing or bring your camera to photograph moose.