AI was utilized in the writing of this article.
Jimmy Dean
February 3, 2024
In the heart of Middle Georgia, a region known for its rich history and vibrant culture, a unique event unfolded on December 16, 2023. The day was marked by a bear hunt that spanned across the private lands of Houston, Bibb, Twiggs, and Bleckley Counties. The weather was agreeable, with moderate temperatures creating an ideal environment for the hunt. However, despite the favorable conditions, the bears seemed to be elusive that day. By the end of the day’s hunt, only two bears were brought into the Oaky Woods Wildlife Management Area (WMA) check station (Georgia Outdoor News, 2024).
The first successful hunter was Kyle Beers who was hunting near the Houston County landfill when he spotted a bear crossing an old food plot. Beers had previously seen this bear during deer hunting season and had hoped it would reappear on bear hunting day. His patience paid off when the bear emerged at a range of about 45 yards. Using his 45-caliber AirForce air rifle, Beers successfully downed the female bear which weighed in at 205 pounds.
The second successful hunter was Wayne Sellers who was hunting in Twiggs County when he killed a male bear weighing 160 pounds. Despite these two successful hunts, the overall yield was considered low for the one-day bear hunt. Consequently, an additional bear hunting day was scheduled for January 16, 2024.