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NewsNorth Port SunAugust 31, 2026Sarasota County

Florida expands bear hunting permits and opens private lands

The state is increasing the number of bear hunting permits available for the upcoming season and expanding the hunt to include private lands. Non-hunters are expected to continue the practice of applying for these permits to reduce the number of bears harvested.

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Why It Matters

This change increases the total number of bears that can be legally hunted in Florida and expands the geographic areas where hunting is ted.

Key Facts

  • The state is increasing the total number of bear hunting permits compared to the 2025 season.
  • The hunt will now include private lands in addition to previously authorized areas.
  • The hunt is scheduled to take place later this year.
  • Non-hunters are expected to apply for permits as a strategy to limit the number of bears harvested.

Who's Mentioned

locationFlorida“Jurisdiction where the hunting policy changes are occurring.”locationApalachicola Wildlife Management Area“Region included in the East Panhandle hunt zone”locationOsceola Wildlife Management Area“Region included in the North hunt zone”organizationSierra Club Florida“Organization opposing the hunt and the new private land policy”organizationFlorida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission“State agency managing the bear hunt”locationOcala Wildlife Management Area“Region included in the Central hunt zone”