During Maryland’s 22nd annual black bear hunt, held from October 20 to 25, 2025, hunters harvested 89 black bears. This total is slightly below the five-year average of 100 bears. The hunt took place in Allegany, Frederick, Garrett, and Washington counties. Garrett County had the highest harvest with 62 bears, followed by Allegany (12), Frederick (8), and Washington (7). The largest bear, weighing 534 pounds, was taken in Frederick County.
The 2025 harvest included 44 male and 45 female bears. Five bears were also harvested by farmers with agricultural damage permits between August 15 and October 27. Weather conditions were cooler than usual, according to Karina Stonesifer, Director of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Wildlife and Heritage Service.
The lower harvest compared to 2024 may be due to an abundance of hard mast, such as hickory and white oak, which provided more food for bears. Hunters reported more success early in the week, especially near food sources and dense cover…