Here's a printable checklist of essential hunting gear items for black bear hunting. Make sure to download the two-page checklist here.
Black Bear Hunting Gear Checklist
Clothing:
– [ ] Camouflage clothing (jacket and pants)
– [ ] Moisture-wicking base layers
– [ ] Insulated hunting boots with good traction
– [ ] Insulated mid-layers (fleece or insulated jacket)
– [ ] Waterproof and breathable rain gear (jacket and pants)
– [ ] Blaze orange vest or hat (for safety during transport)
– [ ] Camouflage headgear (hat or face mask)
– [ ] Insulated gloves
– [ ] Gaiters (to keep debris out of your boots)
– [ ] Extra socks
– [ ] Thermal underwear (for cold weather)
– [ ] Insect repellent
– [ ] Sunscreen
– [ ] Snake-proof gaiters or boots (if applicable)
Hunting Accessories:
– [ ] Quality binoculars
– [ ] Spotting scope (with tripod)
– [ ] Range finder
– [ ] Map and compass or GPS
– [ ] Whistle or signaling device
– [ ] Multi-tool or knife
– [ ] First-aid kit
– [ ] Firestarter or waterproof matches
– [ ] Game bags (for meat transport)
– [ ] Paracord or rope
– [ ] Extra bootlaces
– [ ] Camouflage face paint or makeup
– [ ] Blaze orange flagging tape (for marking your location)
– [ ] Bear calls or lures (if applicable)
– [ ] Predator calls (if applicable)
Firearms and Ammunition:
– [ ] Rifle suitable for black bear hunting
– [ ] Ammunition (compatible with your rifle and local regulations)
– [ ] Scope (with lens caps)
– [ ] Rifle sling or harness
– [ ] Gun cleaning kit
– [ ] Shooting sticks or bipod (for stability)
– [ ] Gun case
Optics:
– [ ] Rifle scope (if not already mentioned)
– [ ] Binocular harness (for easy access)
– [ ] Lens cleaning kit
Backpack and Gear Transport:
– [ ] Large hunting backpack or daypack
– [ ] Hydration system or water bottles
– [ ] Food (snacks, energy bars, meals)
– [ ] Cooking equipment (if needed)
– [ ] Thermos (for hot drinks)
– [ ] Space blanket or emergency bivvy
– [ ] Trash bags (for packing out trash)
– [ ] Ziplock bags (for storing items)
– [ ] Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
– [ ] Solar charger or portable power bank (for electronic devices)
Personal Items:
– [ ] Hunting license and black bear tags
– [ ] Cell phone with charger
– [ ] Personal medication and first-aid supplies
– [ ] Identification and emergency contact information
Other Gear:
– [ ] Bear-proof food storage containers or bags (for camping)
– [ ] Bear spray (for personal protection)
– [ ] Tree stand or ground blind (if applicable)
– [ ] Bear decoys (if applicable)
Before heading out for black bear hunting, thoroughly research and understand the regulations, hunting seasons, and specific hunting methods for the area you plan to hunt. Always prioritize safety, follow firearm safety rules, and let someone know your hunting plans and expected return time. Additionally, be bear-aware and take precautions to avoid bear encounters. Respect local wildlife and hunting laws while hunting black bears.
