Minnesota’s bear hunting season began September 1 and runs through October 18 and in accordance with Minnesota statutes, which authorize the use of bait, hunters are now stocking bait stations.
Baiting is permitted, provided the bait is biodegradable and is placed no more than two weeks before the start of bear season.
About three-fourths of Minnesota’s approximately 15,000 bear hunters use bait. The average hunter sets out two or three bait sites each year, according to Dave Garshelis, bear research biologist with the DNR’s forest wildlife research group in Grand Rapids.
Minnesota’s bear population is estimated at 20,000 to 30,000. In the absence of hunting, Garshelis estimates the population would grow by more than 20 percent per year.
At press time, bear registration has still been light. Buck’s Hardware in Grand Marais reports that only two males and two female bears have been registered. Lockport General Store reports two bears registered. Windigo Lodge on the Gunflint Trail has had four male bears registered. The Hovland Post Office reports one female bear.
Buck’s Hardware reminds bear hunters to bring in the bear or some part of the bear for registration or hunters will be refused registration.
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