Pennsylvania’s black bear hunting seasons may become more defined by region in the future as research continues to study bear populations and survival. Brandon Snavely, the Game Commission’s black ...

Pennsylvania hunters harvested 2,642 bears in 2024, slightly less than the 2,920 harvested in 2023. The heaviest bear harvested weighed 774 pounds and was taken during the regular firearms season.

The Game Commission is considering adjusting season lengths based on regional bear populations, human-bear conflicts, and public opinion. A statewide bear survival study is underway, tracking collared ...