SEBAGO, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- Bear hunting season began Monday at 5:19 a.m. throughout the state of Maine. Maine has one of the largest bear population in the U.S., with more than 30,000 bears. Because of the large population, Maine has one of the longest bear hunting seasons, stretching from the end of August to after Thanksgiving.
Maine's bear hunting season is divided into several segments. Hunters can use bait from August 25 to September 20; hunters can use dogs from September 8 through October 31; and general hunting is allowed from August 25 through November 29. There is also the trapping season, which runs from September 1 through October 31. Hunters are allowed to take two bears during the year, one by hunting and one by trapping. Even with the lengthy seasons and rules, only about 25 percent of hunters actually kill a bear.
Maine is the only state that allows trapping, baiting and dogs. However, for the second time in a decade, Mainers will decide if the hunting rules need to change. A November referendum asks residents if the method of baiting, dogs and trapping should be banned, expect in the case of protecting property, research or public safety.
Supporters of the ban have said bear baiting is cruel and unsporting. The campaign director for Mainers for Fair Bear Hunting said the organization only supports "fair chase" or "still" hunting, where the hunter stalks prey without assistance from bait, dogs or traps. In Maine, this is also known as "general hunting." They also said that dogs are injured during hunting and trapping is inhumane.
Opponents, including Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, said a ban would hurt the state's tourism-dependent economy. Many people visit Maine to hunt bears and they often hire guides to lead them on hunting trips. The Wildlife Division Director for Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Judy Camuso, has said in the past that, "Maine is the most forested state in the country and still hunting is very difficult". She's also said only seven percent of bears are harvested through general hunting.
Both sides have pointed out that Maine's black bear population is on the rise. Inland Fisheries and Wildlife said it has grown 30 percent in the last decade.
Maine Game Wardens patrols the woods during hunting season ensure that bait areas, hunting stands and blinds are labeled properly. They also enforce the rules and regulations to ensure for a fair hunt.
