Florida is inching closer to its first black bear hunt since 2015, following a recent vote by state wildlife officials. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) voted 4-1 on May 21, 2025, to give preliminary approval for a limited bear hunt starting in December. The hunt would allow 187 bears to be killed across four regions of the state where bear populations exceed 200 animals. A final decision is expected in August. What Happened Last Time The last Florida bear hunt in 2015 ended abruptly after just two days. Hunters killed 304 bears, nearly reaching the 300-bear quota … Continue reading Florida Black Bear Hunt Could Return With 187 Permits After 304 Killed in Just 2 Days in 2015