Florida’s Black Bear Hunt Moves Forward — What It Means for Charlotte, Sarasota and DeSoto Counties
Florida wildlife officials have approved the state’s first regulated black bear hunt in 10 years, a decision drawing statewide attention — including here in Southwest Florida, where bears are occasionally spotted but hunting zones remain uncertain.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) voted to authorize a limited hunt from December 6–28, 2025, with 187 permits issued statewide. Hunters will be allowed to take one bear per permit, and cubs under 100 pounds or mothers with cubs will remain protected.
Local Impact: Are Southwest Counties Included?
Although bear sightings occur across Charlotte, Sarasota, and DeSoto counties, FWC has not confirmed whether any of the new hunting zones include these areas. Officially, only certain regions within Florida’s designated Bear Management Units (BMUs) are open for the 2025 season, and Southwest Florida is not currently listed among the primary hunt zones…