09/23/2025
Great article from Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters Association in response to a very biased survey and reports that there are “groups” pushing to ban the spring bear hunt in Manitoba
As hunters and outfitters, we know there’s more to the hunt than the harvest. Licensed hunting plays a vital role in wildlife management, conservation, and our outdoor heritage.
So, why do we do it?
Population Management - bears do not have any natural predator so without hunting, they quickly overpopulate (experienced in real time during Covid) and dramatically affect cervid calf survival and nuisance bear reports.
Meat - they’re great to eat! Total myth that they aren’t. Simply cook it right and get creative.
Fat - render the fat for use in cooking, skin remedies, leather treatment etc.
Conservation - a portion of all license sales goes back into conservation.
Economics - bear hunting is a key part of the outdoor tourism industry and brings an incredible amount of money into the province!
Outdoor heritage - simply getting outdoors, connecting with nature, creating memories in the woods with family & friends.
Taxidermy- lots of options! Tan the hide, bleach the skull, use the claws for jewelry, or have it mounted in various ways to capture the experience forever.
We also wanted to highlight a recent CityNews article where our Board Member, Mike Adey of Whiteshell Outfitters, shared his perspective on the value of regulated spring bear hunting. He emphasized that with proper licensing and education, these hunts are critical for managing bear populations, conservation, and reducing nuisance issues.
Please take a moment to read the full article titled: “Winnipeg Humane Society pushes for a ban on spring black bear hunting”.
Pictures from:
Hastings Bros. Outfitters
All Terrain Bear Hunts
Harvest Lodge
Davis Point Lodge
