bear hunting trips in maine

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Upper Hot Brook Lake, Danforth Maine

207-841-0508

Maine Bear Hunting Outfitters | Guided Maine Bear Hunts with Hounds

Maine's Premier Big Game  Outfitter, Black bear hunting at Spaulding Lake Outfitters is an adventure and a hunt of a lifetime. We hunt exclusive territory to us of 150,000 acres or 234 square miles of Northern Maine premier black bear hunting wilderness. Spaulding Lake Outfitters believes in the supply of quality black bear bait at our sites. We do not feed unsanitary bait to the bears, we only feed pastry bait or granola with molasses, trail mix, cookies, and grain We invest in top quality bait. We also monitor our black bear sites with game cameras so we can determine which of our sites are producing quality Maine black bear and the times of the day the black bears are visiting our bait sites.  Most of the big trophy Maine black bear arrive at the bait sites at the very last shooting light, meaning a trophy black bear hunter will need to stay in the stand until after legal shooting time is up.

We keep our Maine bear hunting pressure low with limited hunters to ensure successful hunts.  We have many options with the number of bait sites we maintain. We offer bear over bait hunting late August through mid-September, and hound hunting mid-September through the end of October.  Hound hunting is a very exciting way to harvest a Maine Black Bear during peak foliage season.

We pride ourselves on team values, we are a team at Spaulding Lake Outfitters, and we will include you onto our team. You will come as a client, but you will leave as a friend. We will involve you in our daily operations, our guides will ask you to come with us every morning to help check bait sites we are not hunting that week, help us lug in bait see the country we call home, we want each and every hunter to see the work, to see the passion we put into our work here at Spaulding Lake Outfitters.

GUIDES:  Where do I start, when I started Spaulding Lake Outfitters, I had a dream about being the best in the business, after working for other outfitters or guides in the state of Maine, I learned, and I listened, what I was seeing is short cuts, rude behavior, lack of loyalty, no organization, uncleanly camps and facilities etc. etc.

As in any successful business the employee makes the difference!!! Our guides and staff are the best this is why we at Spaulding Lake Outfitters are " PREMIER " from the minute you arrive your guide will take care of you he or she will treat you like family, they will ask about your life they will become your friend. And most of all we have passion and heart about what we do!!!!

Lodge: 207-841-0508

2024 Maine Bear Hunting Season

Our Maine black bear hunting season for 2024 starts as soon as the logging roads are dried up from our long spring, we take the time to visit each and every bait site clearing fallen trees from the harsh winter. The last Saturday in July is when Spaulding Lake Outfitters can start putting our quality bait out at our predetermined site locations. Prior to August 1st we are brushing out our sites preparing for the upcoming black bear season, cleaning up deadfall trees or branches that have fallen over in the winter are part of our pre bait routine. During the month of August Spaulding Lake Outfitters will feed our black bears an abundance of pastries and attractants to get the bears in our area, and in surrounding areas to funnel to our bait sites. Maine black bear are like humans, they will go and frequent where the meals are the best and they will keep returning there.

Our hunting season for Maine black bear will start on 8/26/24 , and hunting over bait season will run until September 9/21/24 which is the last day our black bear hunters can legally harvest a Maine black bear hunting from a bait site. Spaulding Lake Outfitters also offers Maine black bear hunts with the use of bear hounds. Our clients find this way of hunting for black bear most exciting. The thrill and the rush of listening to good hounds work a bear track cannot be described here, only by partaking in a full out black bear chase. Our hound season starts on September 9/9/24 and runs through October 26/24. A unique part of this Maine hound bear hunting season is that it overlaps with bait season the weeks of  - September 9th through September 14th and September 16th through September 21st/24, we offer either bait hunting only hound hunting only, or the option for both adventures. If you want to sit on a black bear bait in the afternoon and wait for a trophy Maine black bear to come in and he doesn't until after legal shooting light, then tomorrow morning you can choose to hunt Maine black bear with the hounds. We can hunt with hounds in the morning and bait hunt in the evening. Keep in mind only one black bear can be harvested.

View Our Bear Hunting Gallery

Maine Bear Hunting Season Dates

• Maine Black Bear Hunting over Bait 2024 August 28th - September 23rd   TBD for 2024
• Maine Black Bear Hunting with Hounds 2024 September 11th - October 27th TBD for 2024
• Maine Black Bear Hunting Combo Bait/ Hounds  September 11th - September 16th / September 18th - September 23 rd TBD for 2024

At Spaulding Lake Outfitters, we offer a  6 Day HUNT/ 7 NIGHT STAY Maine black bear hunting adventure. We would like to have our clients arrive at the lodge by midafternoon on Sunday where we can spend some time getting to know each other around the campfire. We can also make sure your weapon of choice for your Maine black bear hunt is still as accurate as it was when you left home. The comradery of hunting season is something all of us will treasure through friendships developed that last a lifetime, if we think about how special it is to gather at a sacred place year after year enjoying people with common interests.  

Maine Bear Hunting Guide with Hounds

You have many choices for a weapon for your black bear hunting trip from the traditional rifle to a crossbow. Spaulding Lake Outfitters sets up our Tree stands or ground blinds with each type of hunter in mind. Some sites are set specifically for the archery hunter where another site will set up only for a rifle hunter. We encourage you to hunt your Maine black bear with the weapon of your choice and you would have already relayed your weapon of choice to me on the questionnaire I had sent to you in previous months leading up to your Maine black bear hunt at Spaulding Lake Outfitters. We use the questionnaire as a get to know you before you arrive at Spaulding Lake Outfitters. I will ask questions from choice of weapon to food likes and dislikes to your emergency contact information. We want your stay at Spaulding Lake Outfitters to be as comfortable and relaxing as possible.

On the day of arrival to the lodge we will have a brief Informational and safety meeting about your upcoming Maine black bear hunt. We will talk about Tree stand safety to legal shooting times for the week you will be hunting at Spaulding Lake Outfitters. At Spaulding Lake Outfitters, we pay attention to every detail we can control!!! We can control our famous home cooked meals, we can control the cleanliness of our lodge, cabins, our bath house, our grounds, our pickups will be clean our equipment is top notch and organized. Spaulding Lake Outfitters is  Maine's Premier Big Game Outfitter, and we are very proud of that. 

Upon harvesting your trophy Maine black bear Spaulding Lake Outfitters, we encourage you to bring coolers large enough to transport your black bear quarters home with you. Spaulding Lake Outfitters also has an excellent butcher and taxidermist nearby to take care of your trophy needs if you so choose.

Lodging at Spaulding Lake Outfitters for Your Bear Hunt

Your stay at Spaulding Lake Outfitters (Umcolcus Sporting Camps) during bear season will start with an outstanding Maine themed home cooked meal on Sunday evening. After dinner we will have a short itinerary laid out for your week-long bear hunting adventure. You can then relax near the stream around the campfire, on the porch playing cribbage, dominoes, checkers, cards, or in the lounge area near the enormous stone fireplace watching television or a movie, although we are very remotely located, we are linked up to the rest of the world with a cell phone booster in the lodge, HughesNet internet and Dish Network so we do not miss that game.  

In the morning an excellent breakfast will be served with plenty of freshly brewed coffee. Enjoy some fishing or we also offer some early season goose hunting, or just relax until the mid-day meal is served after which we will begin your bear hunting adventure.

Umcolcus Sporting Camps is owned by Spaulding Lake Outfitters and has been since 2018. 

Umcolcus Sporting Camps is a part of Maine history Established in 1918 the lodging and home cooked meals are second to none. A quality first class hunt is promised to you Please visit our Umcolcus Sporting Camps website and enjoy see link below:  

www.umcolcus.com

View Our Lodging Options

2024 Black Bear Hunting Packages

• 2024 Bear Hunt over Bait = $3,300.00 
• 2024 Bear Hunt with Hounds = $4,400.00 
• 2024 Combination Bear Hunt -Over Bait and with Hounds = $4,730.00

All Packages include a  6 DAY HUNT/ 7 NIGHT STAY, Comfortable lodging, home cooked meals, a registered Maine Guide and daily transportation to and from the hunting area. Also included are daily gate fees into the North Maine Woods. 

Not Included 

• Licenses 
• Processing / Shipping fees 
• Taxidermy / www.top-of-the-world-taxidermy.com

PLEASE SEE OUR "RATES" PAGE FOR DETAILS REGARDING CANCELATION POLICY!!

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The Homestead Lodge

207-435-6357

High Success Guided Maine Bear Hunts

World Class Guided Maine Black Bear Hunts

Maine trophy bear hunting success begins when you choose the location of your hunt. And Northern Maine has the largest black bear population in North America and is growing every year. Aroostook County is known for its endless miles of primeval forest and shadowy bogs which lure hunters from all over the world in their quest for that all time trophy bear! Hunting success continues when you choose your Outfitter. Homestead Lodge wants you to go home with the bear trophy of your dreams and we have the knowledge, skill, and experience to make it happen. We do not just open a camp for the Maine bear hunting season we live and work here year round. We are legally allowed to bait for 30 days prior to the season opening and we bait all 30 days. Maine trophy bear hunters using bow, rifle, slug gun, muzzle loaders or hand guns have equal opportunity to harvest the Trophy Black Bear of a lifetime due largely to setting each site specifically for the individual hunter and to our continuing maintenance efforts. Landowner Regulations require separation by township and road system of commercial Outfitters and ½ mile between sites. Homestead Lodge has a average of 1 mile between sites (although most are 1.5 to 2 miles apart) and we lease enough ground that we can provide not only a new site for each hunter each week, but a whole new area each week for a whole new opening week experience each week!

Maine Bear Hunting Season

Whether you are hunting bears with a bow or rifle hunts, the season generally starts the last week of August into September.

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A Tradition of Maine Bear Hunting Excellence

Homestead Lodge encourages the continuation of our hunting heritage with both ladder and ground blinds. We will go the extra to ensure that their stay is a wholesome experience and their Maine black bear hunt is successful.

Information Regarding Your Fully Guided Maine Bear Hunt:

• 2024 - $2,500 includes meals, lodging, transportation to and from hunting site, game retrieval and care
• All hunts are seven nights lodging and six days hunting. Hunting is Monday to Saturday per State Law
• Check In time is after 3:00PM on Sunday, check out the following Sunday before 10:00AM
• A $600 non-refundable deposit is required to secure reservation, 50% is due 90 days prior to arrival
• Final payment due upon arrival with cash, bank check, personal check, or money order
• On premise butchering available upon request, additional fees apply

* Initial deposit required to secure reservation. Reservations are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Remaining balance (plus State taxes) will be collected at check in.

* Wounded animal policy . We will make every attempt to try and locate your bear, however, if you draw blood and we are unable to locate the animal, that is considered your kill. Please make a clean and ethical shot with proper shot placement. If you have any questions on where to aim, ask any of our guides.

REQUEST MORE INFORMATION

Why Hire a Bear Hunting Guide in Maine

With over 35,000 black bears roaming the woods in Maine, there is plenty of opportunity for hunters. Many hunters find success each year but an average of 65% of successful hunters in the state hire a registered guide. The woods of Maine are vast and hiring a guide will increase your bear hunting success and enhance your hunting experience.

Looking to Hire a Maine Hunting Guide? Make sure to ask:

• Can the guide give references from past clients ?
• What kind of hunting or trapping experience can they provide?
• Do they loan gear or equipment?
• Do they provide meals and lodging ?
• Do they offer meat cutting or can they recommend a meat cutter?

Book Your Guided Hunt!

Reasons to Bear Hunt in Maine

Looking for more reasons to book a guide bear hunt in maine.

Bear hunting helps control the population. Bears do not have any natural predators. Hunting is a natural way to control the bear population humanly.

Bears are tasty! Bear meat is lean and health and it taste great. Get outdoors and harvest your own healthy meat for your family.

Maine Bear Hunting Facts

The Bear Facts: Bears see in color and have good vision close-up. Their hearing exceeds human frequency ranges and probably twice the sensitivity. Their smelling ability is extremely good.  The limits are untested.  Their nasal mucosa area is about 100 times larger than in humans and their sense of smell is 7 times that of a blood hound. Therefore, sit still and make sure you are scent free. No cover scents please - we take care of that.

BUT, remember. No matter how much effort and expertise we contribute to your hunt, the Black Bear is unlike any other game you have ever hunted. Unlike deer hunting , you will be hunting a predator who will be hunting your bait site. And when hit, the black bear will not lie down and bleed out like a deer. But rather, will hide so you will not find him until you can smell it. Or run until he dies - which could be 10 to 20 miles. Therefore patience and care should be given to a precision killing shot.

Black Bear Hunting With Hounds

Bear hunting with hounds is completely legal in Maine during the months of September and October, and although the use of hounds can be controversial, we consider it to be one of the most sporting and exciting ways to hunt black bears. Hunting with dogs offers a very unique bear hunting experience that is fast-paced, and happens in tight quarters. Nothing compares to the excitement of hearing the hounds sound off when they have a bear treed, and then moving in to see if it's a shooter. If it is, be prepared for an up-close shot! 

These hunts offer extremely high success rates and allow the hunter to be more selective and take the time to ethically judge the size and sex of the bear before taking a shot. We recommend that you come on your hound hunt in good physical shape, as it often includes a lot of fast movement through the woods in sometimes difficult terrain.

If you are looking for the ultimate Maine bear hunt with hounds, give us a call to start planning your trip.

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Black Bear Hunts

2024 black bear hunt rates/packages, fully guided hunts.

2024 Bear hunting season August 25 thru September 21

Guided Hunt

per person 

Youth Guided Hunt up to age 15

Package includes.

7 Nights lodging in your own private cabin and 6 days hunt 

• Registered Maine guide
• Transportation to and from hunting sites.
• Trophy care, retrieval, weighing and tagging, skinning and quartering, we will freeze your meat and hide.  
• 3 Meals per day Start with a hearty breakfast, pack a field lunch the way you like it. A great evening start at 6:00 PM

for non-hunter staying with hunter includes meals & 7 nights lodging.  

Children 6 to 12

for non-hunter staying with hunter includes meals & 7 nights lodging. Under 6 are free. 

A Non Refundable deposit  for hunter only of $800  (check or Credit Card) is required at the time of booking.   

Prices Do NOT include license and/or permit fees, butchering or sales tax.

Black Bear Hunting in Maine

Cedar ridge outfitters is more than just a big game hunting outfitter.

 We offer not just a great black bear hunting experience; we offer a true black bear hunters vacation! With the largest population of black bear, Maine is quickly becoming a premier destination for bear hunters from all over the country and the Jackman, Maine region is no exception for black bear hunts.

Bear Hunting with Cedar Ridge Outfitters

• Our guests have their own private, fully equipped cabins.  You will be served three homemade meals per day cooked fresh from our commercial kitchen and served family style in the dining room.  The cookie jars are always full and coffee, tea, etc. are  available at anytime. 
• We have included in your black bear hunting packages: weighing, tagging, professional skinning and quartering of your bear.  
• A large number of our bear sites are designated to Cedar Ridge Outfitters, which means there will be no competition from other outfitters or bear hunters.  
• The longest travel time to your Rhino Blind is no longer than thirty minutes from your cabin.  
• Our special formula bait is freshly made in our facility at camp.
• We start baiting four weeks before black bear season begins.  We take great care of our bear sites out of respect to all wildlife, landowners and our customers.  
• Our bait barrels​ are checked and baited on a regular schedule.  
• Our game cameras are set up at all hunting bear sites.
• It is amazing how many black bear there are in this area.  ​
• We guarantee, before you leave Cedar Ridge Outfitters you will have made many new friends and you will have gained a few extra pounds from eating all the delicious homemade food.  
• We always have a great group of customers and we enjoy making your stay the most comfortable and amazing experience you will ever have!

2024 Bear Season

Over Bait 

• 1st week August 25- August 31
• 2nd week September 1-7
• 3rd week September 8 -14 ​
• 4th week September 15-21

Maine Fishing and Wildlife Information

For more information on laws, regulations, and licensing, please visit www.mefishwildlife.com 

Maine Hunting Laws

Hunting laws 2024 - 2025

Purchase Your hunting license

Purchase you licenses

Cedar Ridge Outfitters

Business Office Address: 25 Attean Road, Jackman, Maine 04945

207- 668- 4169

Copyright © 2022 Cedar Ridge Outfitters - All Rights Reserved.

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Maine Black Bear Hunts with Turnpike Ridge Outfitters

Turnpike ridge outfitters combines the abundance of black bear with over 50 years of experience and hard work to ensure your black bear hunt will be both successful and enjoyable. our bait supply and methods bring along with it one of the highest success rates in the maine guided black bear hunting industry..

FALL BLACK BEAR HUNTS

Our fall black bear hunts consist of a consecutive four-week season over bait, followed by a season with hounds. Maine's baited bear hunts begin the Monday preceding Labor Day.

SALMON POOL CAMPS

HUNTING DETAILS

The hunting area is spread over northern Penobscot, Piscataquis, and Aroostook Counties, the top three bear-producing counties in Maine!

A full month of pre-baiting and stand preparation ensures we have plenty of active baits for everyone, with ample spares. We maintain over 150 bait sites spread over half of a million acres and hunt separate locations each week, making each Monday the first day of the season! Our ability to move around allows us to keen higher-than-average success rates and plenty of big bear on the game pole.

Maine Black Bear Hound Hunts start mid September and run through the end of October. Turnpike Ridge Outfitters also offers Maine black bear hound hunts from the Salmon Pool Camps.

Hunting with hounds is exciting and will definitely get your blood pumping. During the chase, you will be listening to the sound of the hounds and seeing Maine at its colorful best! With the changing leaves and cooler mornings, the first strike will get the body and mind started better than a cup of coffee!

Black Bear Hunts

Maine Fall Black Bear Hunts & Black Bear Hound Hunts

Our guided fall black bear hunts in maine are an exciting five days, whether you are hunting in a stand or with our hounds..

North Carolina Black Bear Hound Hunts

We now offer guided black bear hunts with hounds in the swamps of north carolina. eastern north carolina is known for the largest black bear in north america.

Let our experienced guides open the door to the new world of a hunting adventure that builds memories to last a lifetime!

10% OFF ALL MILITARY and FIRST RESPONDERS!

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• The LSO Lodge

Maine Black Bear hunting at the lodges of Lucky Strike Outfitters is

Located in the serene and peaceful mountains of Western Maine, or our sporting camps in the North Maine Woods.

(207) 712-8561 * (207) 441-5288

Owned and operated by Registered Maine Guides Jonathan and Angela Rogers, along with their home raised pack of hounds. We are a friendly, family oriented outfitter looking to fulfill your hunt of a lifetime. Whether you are coming for the experience solo or with friends/family of your own, we are here to

create your dream hunt. 

The first step for the hunt of a lifetime - Send us an inquiry!

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Lucky Strike Outfitters

P.O. Box 172 Casco ME 04015

[email protected]

Let's Book Your Hunt!

2023 will be an awesome year for our Registered Maine Guides to take you on a hunt you will never forget!

Copyright © 2023 Lucky Strike Outfitters - All Rights Reserved.

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Black Bear Hunts in Maine . . .

. . . a world-class hunting experience.

“Bear Hunting Success Begins When You Pick Your Guide”

Three trophy Maine black bear for the record book on this hunts one day results Bear hunting in Maine places you in one of the heaviest black bear concentrations per acre of habitat anywhere in North America. Hunter success from our blinds and tree stands over bait has been outstanding with record book kills year in and year out.

Fall bear hunts in Maine offer perhaps the most beautiful scenery in the world. You will be surrounded by an explosion of fall foliage color and you will never be too far from a delicious Maine lobster dinner. There is nothing quite like our fall hunting in Maine.

Handgun hunting is legal in Maine. Your hunting license is your permit. In order to purchase a Maine hunting license you will be required to show a previous license from your home state or province. A hunter safety certificate is also sufficient.

Prime Black Bear Habitat with Controlled Access

You will hunt deep in the most productive black bear habitat in North America, on nearly one million acres of private and state lands. Our prime hunting areas have controlled access – an unparalleled benefit for Foggy Mountain’s guests. We have hunted these lands since 1964. We know the habitat, and we know the black bears’ habits and patterns within it.

The black bear in your territory are under-hunted, resulting in a growing bear population, with many stands having multiple bears visiting them.

Thanks again for a great hunt and experience. At first, I was not sure what to expect, as this was my first hunt outside South Carolina. The lodging was great and the food was more than I expected (Excellent to put it mildly). The hunting and wildlife was spectacular. Eric Perkins, Pellet, South Carolina, Sept 2013.

Unsurpassed opportunity to hunt a Trophy Bear

We strive to give our hunters the shooting opportunities expected of a truly world-class hunting outfitter. This requires knowledge, skill, effort, advance preparation, and experience. Bear hunting is our life, so no matter how you cut it, a part time guide can not give a full time commitment.

Trophy black bear from the Maine Highlands Our highly processed baits have incredible drawing power. They are continually adjusted as bear feeding preferences change. Your bait site, stand and blind are precisely positioned and meticulously maintained only after our careful study of prevailing winds, terrain, and game patterns.

Check out our Fall 2020 Bear Hunting Trophy Room

A sure shot and a quick, clean kill

A black bear can appear at your stand and then disappear in a blink. Powerful and crafty, the bear’s trademarks are strength and endurance. His nose is as sensitive as the most sophisticated radar system. The bear’s feed and travel patterns through our thick fir and dense bogs make him a challenging animal to hunt. Scent and noise control are critical to your success.

You are provided pre-built, permanent stands, portables and ground blinds with all obstructing branches and brush cleared from your line of fire. Our stands offer bowhunters an average shot of 18 yards. Rifle hunters will shoot at distances of 75 yards or less, and hand gunners will be shooting 20-30 yards.

The black bear demands shooting excellence before he will fall to a hunter. Even at these close ranges, a precision shot is essential. Your target is a 4 to 5 inch square (boiler room) area just behind the front shoulder.

Bow-hunters – it makes no difference how good a shot you are. Unless you hit exactly in the boiler room with the arrow heading towards the bear’s head, you will get nothing but a wounded animal.

The black bear is unlike any other game you have ever hunted. When hit, he will not lie down and bleed out like a deer. But rather, will run until he dies – which could be up to 20 miles. Therefore, a precision shot is essential.

Those of you using a gun have many options. You do not have to even wait until the bear is on bait for a good shot. Also, a head and chest shot can produce when combined with accurate shooting.

And never rush a shot. But when you do have a good shot – take it. Do not assume the bear may go left or right, or even to the actual bait. Be positive of what and where you are shooting…it’s your responsibility.

Note: You may hunt with rifle, muzzleloader, handgun or bow. As of 2006, Cross-bows are also legal in Maine (additional license is required – Click here for details about the Cross-bow license ).

Thank you and your staff again for the time we had on our bear hunt. I am tickled with my bear. I wanted an above average bear with a dark muzzle and no V. That is exactly what I got. I can’t wait to get the mount. You have a first rate operation. Cindy Chihasz, Abbeville, SC, September 2015.

Hunts in Two Vast Tracks of Land in Maine — a Major Benefit to our Hunters

One of the key factors contributing to the high success rate and quality bear taken at Foggy Mountain is that we never put any pressure on our bear population resource. We start hunting in the Highlands, Katahdin and Moosehead Region where we only hunt for two weeks, then completely close it down to assure that the bear never get hunted hard. We then hunt the West Branch Region, which is completely separate from the Highlands, Katahdin and Moosehead Region. These two regions are located in different parts of Maine. Both areas are equally under harvested, with growing bear populations, which perhaps provides some of the most outstanding bear hunting possible in North America.

Bear hunting success is the same in both areas, but our accommodations are different. Lodging for hunts in our Highlands, Katahdin and Moosehead Region is housekeeping style (each cabin has a full kitchen). Lodging for hunts in the West Branch Region is American Plan (meals included). Both areas are on private lands with access controlled by gates, as are 95% of our total hunting territories.

Highlands, Katahdin and Moosehead Region Hunts

2023 Season: Hunt August 28th (Arrive on the 27th) thru September 1st; or hunt September 4th (Arrive on September 3rd) thru September 8th.

Six day stay and a five day hunt. Maine’s vast Highland, Katahdin and Moosehead Region lies between our Ebeemee Lake base camp, and Mount Katahdin and Moosehead Lake to the north.

Housekeeping Accommodations – We offer excellent housekeeping accommodations in comfortable cottages or camps. We match your lodging to the size of your party and the area you are hunting. We provide bedding and household equipment. You’ll have everything you need to prepare your own food inexpensively. There are also several places to eat within easy driving distance.

More details about our Highland, Katahdin and Moosehead Region Bear Hunt

West Branch Region Hunts

2023 Season: Hunt September 11th (Arrive on the 10th) thru September 15th; or hunt September 18th (Arrive on the 17th) thru September 22nd.

Hunt Maine’s famous West Branch Region between Moosehead Lake and the Canadian border.

Six day stay and a five day hunt tailored the same as our regular base camp housekeeping hunts.

American Plan – Stay in the comfort of a fully restored Maine Lumberjack Lodge. This lodge has been designated as an official National and Maine Historic Site, and features original turn-of-century decor. What’s more, you’ll enjoy home-cooked, all-you-can-eat, lumberjack-style meals, reputed to be the biggest and the best in Maine. The coffee pot is always on.

More details about our West Branch Region Bear Hunt

Private & Flexible Accommodations

Unlike bear hunts with most outfitters, lodges and sporting camps, Foggy Mountain’s guests are not doubled up in a bunk house or room with other guests. Your party will enjoy the privacy of your own sleeping room, and the good night’s sleep that is important for a good hunt – whether you come alone, with a large group, with your spouse or whole family.

“Life is full of surprises…Your bear hunt shouldn’t be one of them!”

We know that a bear hunt is a major event in many folk’s lives, so we take it very seriously. You can arrive with confidence, not apprehension.

Thank you for an amazing time in the Maine North Woods with Foggy Mountain. The trip was all I hoped it would be – from the cabin on the lake to all the moose that came by my stand. Along with the bears even if I had not taken such great bear the trip would have been a success. Tony Dayton, Fleetwood, NC, September 2013.

It May Not Be Too Late!

“Should you have a last minute opportunity to get away for some quality hunting, just give me a call and I may be able to accommodate you. I appreciate fellow hunters and their busy schedules, and will do everything possible to accommodate you.” – Brandon Bishop.

• All hunts are six days lodging and five days hunting.
• The best time to arrive is Sunday afternoon.
• You will hunt from either a ground blind or tree stand.
• A 50% deposit is required on all hunts. No deposits refunded.
• PERSONAL CHECKS ACCEPTED FOR RESERVATION DEPOSITS ONLY.
• Please make Checks Payable to “Foggy Mountain Guide Service.”

Click Here for Maine Black Bear Hunting Rates .

Return to our roots, our famous Bear Hunts over Hounds

Get back to Foggy Mountain’s roots with Brandon’s exciting bear hunting adventure. These hunts produce some of the largest Maine black bear taken each year. Become one of the hunters who do!

Our hound hunts are a thrilling blend of hound and hunter skills, with exciting non-stop action. We follow a bear wherever it leads us in the deep woods of Maine.

More details about our Hound hunting opportunities

When you book a hunt with us, you will receive a complete confirmation kit including detailed information on equipment and clothing, plus graphic illustrations of optimum shooting angles.

Please feel free to call us at any time.

Click here for answers to some of your Questions .

Quick Links

• Katahdin & Moosehead Bear Hunts
• West Branch Bear Hunts
• Family Bear Hunts
• Handgun Hunts
• Hound Hunts for Bear

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Maine's Number One Black Bear Hunting Guide - Read article about Wayne Bosowicz

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• Bear Hunting

Bear Hunting & Trapping

Maine is the go to destination for bear hunting in the lower 48. We have the largest bear population in the lower 48 and we are the only state that can hunt over bait, hounds and trap bear. We specialize in bait hunting and trapping. We do combo bait and trapping trips where you can take home two beautiful fall black bears and a lifetime of memories of the hunt and the beautiful fall Maine forests.

We guarantee every hunter 2 active bait sites that have been baited with quality bait from the start of bait season and no skimping on bait throughout. This baiting method keeps big bears around and works well. We run tree stands and ground blinds and can accommodate rifle, bow, muzzleloader, and pistol hunters.

We strongly recommend a 6 day hunt due to natural food sources and weather having big impacts on certain weeks. Our bait hunts start midday and go until dark each night.

On our trapping trips we run game cameras and cable snares and check them first thing each morning to make necessary adjustments.

We also now offer options for hound hunting, please contact us for more information.

Bait Hunt for Bears

We guarantee every hunter 2 active bait sites that have been baited with quality bait from the start of bait season and no skimping on bait throughout.

6 day - $2200.00

Trapping & bait hunt combo.

2 Bears Allowed.

Active bait sites, hunting, and trapping opportunities allow you two bears in Maine.

Trapping Bear

Active bait sites.

Hound Hunt for Bears

Travel alongside our houndsmen on the adventure of a lifetime to take a great Maine black bear.

6 day - $3000

177 Jackson Road

Monroe, Maine 04951

207-323-9713

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BLACK GHOST OUTFITTERS

Guided hunting tours with over 100 years of experience. maine bear hunting, deer hunting, moose hunting, and turkey hunting., visit our 'about' and 'contact' pages for more information, or send us an email at [email protected] ..

PB Guide Service

Guided Moose, Bear, & Deer Hunts in Maine | 207-474-2644

[email protected] 207-399-7000

Black Bear, Moose, and Deer Hunting in the Heart of Northern Maine

For over thirty years, PB Guide Service has been offering the best in guided black bear, moose, and whitetail deer hunting.

From our camps in the Baker Lake Region of the North Maine Woods, you gain access to hundreds of miles of private wilderness and dirt roads where we are the only commercial outfitter. Our vast hunting territory gives you an unmatched opportunity to hunt black bears, moose, and trophy whitetail deer.

Whether you’re a first time hunter or a seasoned veteran, a single party or a family of six, PB Guide Service can give you a hunting experience you’ll remember for decades.

Come see us at a Sportsman Show!

We'll have a booth at the following shows this year. We hope you'll stop in to see us:

• Jan 19-21 Yankee Classic, Essex Jct., Vermont
• Feb 3-11 Great American Sportsman, Harrisburg, PA
• Feb. 23-25 The Big E Sportsman Show, Springfield, MA
• March 8-10 WNY Sports, Hamburg, NY

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Our guided black bear hunters enjoy one of the most successful hunting opportunities in North America. Our guides spend months perfecting our bait sites to give our bear hunters the best chance of seeing a trophy black bear. Year after year, our black bear hunt has a success rate of over 80%. Read more...

Moose Hunts

For hunters who draw a tag in Maine’s moose permit lottery, there’s no better opportunity to shoot a trophy moose than from our camps in WMD 4. With guided hunts as well as bed and meals lodging, we offer all our moose hunters the comfort of a modern lodge with full electricity, bathrooms, and a walk-in cooler in the most remote region of WMD 4. Read more...

Hunting whitetail deer in the big woods of Northern Maine is a special opportunity for hunters to take a trophy whitetail buck. With little outside hunting pressure, our territory gives you unmatched freedom to hunt a trophy deer from one of many blinds, tree stands, and shooting cabins. Our whitetail hunters regularly take bucks weighing over 200 lbs. Read more...

PB Guide Service is a licensed outfitter owned and operated by Registered Maine Guide Paul Beauregard, who has over three decades of experience guiding bear, moose, and deer hunters in Maine.

Our mission is to give hunters more than a great hunt. We want them to enjoy an experience they will remember forever.

If you have any questions about our hunting packages, camps, or experience, please don’t hesitate to email or call us.

PB Guide Service [email protected] 207-399-7000

P.O. Box 307 Skowhegan, ME 04976

• Black Bear Hunt
• Zone 4 Moose Hunt
• Partridge (Grouse) Hunts
• Black Bear Hunting
• Moose Hunting
• Deer Hunting

(207) 265-6250

[email protected]

Trophy Whitetail Deer, Bear and Moose Hunts in Northern Maine

Maine Bear Hunts & Trapping

We offer 3 weeks of fall baited black bear hunting in Northern Maine, near the Mt. Katahdin area. We also offer bear trapping packages utilizing our pre-baited bait sites. We believe the quality in preparation for these hunts sets us apart from other outfitters. Each bear hunting bait site is pre-baited 30 days before the season opens. We routinely check and freshen our bait sites. We also monitor our bait sites with trail camera surveillance.

Each bear hunter is provided with two pre-baited stand sites, set up using a comfortable ladder treestand or ground blind. Our hunters may use the weapon of their choice, such as rifle, archery, muzzleloader, crossbow, or handgun. Upon arrival on Sunday, guide will accompany clients to the shooting range for a final sight-in check.

Lodging for our Maine bear hunts, is provided at Pine Grove Campground & Cabins in Medway, Maine. Lodging and meals are included in hunt package rates. Bear are processed at a local butcher. Bear are delivered to butcher by guide. Local taxidermy services are available.

Guided Maine Bear Hunts include:

• 7 nights lodging / meals
• 6 days guiding – Monday thru Saturday
• Transportation during the hunt
• Trophy care and removal from the woods, including delivery to local butcher

Guided Maine Bear Trapping includes:

• 6 days of trapping  – Traps are set on Sunday and checked daily, Monday through Friday
• All trapping equipment provided
• Transportation during your stay
• Trophy care and removal from the woods
• Trapping license is not included. View Maine Trapping License Application

Guided Bear Hunts (1 bear)

Hunt with Meals & Lodging – $2,400 Hunt with Lodging, No Meals – $2,100 Hunt Only – No Meals or Lodging – $1,800

Bear Trapping (1 bear)

Trapping with Meals & Lodging – $2,400 Trapping with Lodging, No Meals – $2,100 Trapping Only – No Meals or Lodging – $1,800

Hunting & Trapping Combo (2 bears)

Hunting & Trapping with Meals & Lodging – $3,600 Hunting & Trapping with Lodging, No Meals – $3,300 Hunting & Trapping Only – No Meals or Lodging – $3,000

Additional Fees

Hunting and/or Trapping License and Bear Permit. For hunting license information please visit the Maine Inland Fisheries & Wildlife’s website.

9% Lodging Tax

Butchering & Taxidermy

Gratuities for your guide and camp staff are not included in hunt prices but greatly appreciated.

Suggested items to bring

• Rubber Boots
• Wind blocking outer shell
• Scoped gun you are familiar with
• Spare firearm
• Thermacell insect repeller

2024 Bear Season Dates

1st week August 25th to September 1st, 2024 (Hunt)

2nd week September 1st to 8th, 2024 (Hunt)

3rd week September 8th to 15th, 2024 (Hunt & Trap)

4th week September 15th to 20th, 2024 (Trapping Only) 

Book Your Hunt Today

Jayson lucarelli.

Master Maine Guide

P.O. Box 124, Medway, ME 04460

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Email address:

207-398-4478

Guided Maine Black Bear Hunts in Allagash

Maine Black Bear Hunts

North Maine Woods Black Bear Hunting

Boasting the largest black bear population in six decades, Maine black bear numbers are on the increase and estimated to be 25,000 to 30,000 animals, which is far more than any other state in the Eastern United States.

The majority of the statewide bear harvest comes from Aroostook County where a 3.5 million acre industrial timberland is relatively undeveloped and provides excellent bear habitat. Make the extra effort to come to northernmost Aroostook County where the bear population is the highest in the state of Maine.

Bear Hunting with Hounds ~The chase is on!!

Hunting black bear with hounds is an adrenaline rush that can't be explained...only experienced.  A physically challenging chase through rough bear country begins at dawn. Tenacious hounds equipped with GPS collars pick up the trail and you're off on a fast paced chase. The sights and sounds of this hunt won't soon be forgotten.  Limited space, we take just 3 hunters per week!

Call 207-398-9111 for pricing and available dates

Purchase Maine Hunting License Online

Beautiful Black Bear taken in 2019

Bear Hunting over Bait

It’s worth the trip to Allagash to hunt the extreme north country near the Canadian Border.  Two sites are leased for each hunter; by Thursday if you haven’t seen a bear, or passed on a bear, you have can move to a fresh site for the remainder of your hunt. After a bait site has been hunted it is retired until next year, so most of our sites only get 1-3 days of hunting pressure each year.

We lease about 90 bait sites in “North Maine Woods”, a 3.2 million acre multi use commercial forest. Many sites have been established for over 35 years.  Wind direction, cover, and bear sign are all factors considered when choosing a bait site location. We hunt from 15" metal ladder tree stands or specially designed elevated wooden blinds that sit 5′ off the ground; great for those who don’t like heights or have physical limitations.

Our bow and rifle sites have shooting distances between 15-40 yards set up for left or right handed shooters. All sites are within a 20-60 minute drive from camp, and a 50-60 yard walk from the truck. We have double stand/blinds available for a guest or cameraperson.

RATES & PACKAGES

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Experienced Maine Bear Hunting Guides

At Northern Hideaway Outfitters, we pride ourselves on offering superior guided black bear hunting. We have excellent hunting packages for Maine black bear hunting, guided moose hunting, and fishing trips. These are available for the whole family or a group of friends every year during the month of September.

With 136,000 acres of forest, we can guarantee that you will see your fair share of wildlife to hunt. Each of our guided black bear hunting trips are available for five days of hunting and fishing, with nights lodging in our comfortable cabins. If you are interested in working with our Maine bear hunting guides, contact us today to reserve your spot today!

Why Choose Our Maine Moose Hunting Guides

The second Maine guided hunting trip we offer at Northern Hideaway Outfitters is our Maine guided moose hunting. For those lucky enough to obtain a moose hunting license via the lottery of Maine, we hope that you will choose us for your moose hunting destination. Because we are located in Zone 1 and have a perimeter of 200 sq miles, we know that our location gives you ample opportunities to hunt moose. Our guided moose hunting includes cabin lodging, fishing on Big Black River, three meals a day, tracking, and skinning of your animal. If you are interested in our guided moose hunting, secure your spot today!

What's Offered in Our Guided Grouse Hunts?

Northern Hideaway Outfitters is happy to offer guided grouse hunts. We are happy to provide you with 3.1 million acres of land for you to explore and find plenty of ruffled grouse with friends and family. Not only do we have experienced hunting guides to help you bag as many ruffled grouse as possible, we also offer you a comfortable hunting lodge, delicious cooking, and a clean camp environment. If you are interested in booking a guided grouse hunt this fall, contact us today!

Secure Your Spot In One Of Our Guided Hunting Trips Today!

If you are interested in a hunting experience that is unlike any other, consider spending a week this fall with the Maine bear hunting guides at Northern Hideaway Outfitters. For pricing on our Maine black bear hunting or guided moose hunting, see our packages below.

• Full service guided Bear hunt - $2800
• Non-hunter (space permitting) - $900
• DIY Hunter Bear Hunt- $1900
• Maine Moose Hunting(No Tag Provided)- $6500
• Moose Hunting(Tag Included)- $18000
• Upland Bird Hunting(Initial Cost)- $4500
• Upland Bird Hunting(After Intital Cost)- $1000
• North Maine Woods gate fee - $50 NR
• Maine meals and lodging tax - $27
• Big Game License - $115 NR
• Bear permit - $75 NR
• 7 Day Fishing License - $40 NR
• Gratuities for guides and cooks not included
• Deposits are non-refundable

Contact our team today for more information on our guided black bear hunting and to save your spot!

Full service guided bear hunts

Price: $2800.00

Save money with self guided bear hunts

Price: $1900.00

Your source for bear hunting

Life is to short to stay indoors! Come explorer our outdoor experience!

Upland Bird Hunting

PRICE: $4500.00 / First Hunter Each hunter in party pays $1000

PRICE: $6500.00

Unguided Hunts

Allagash Guide Service

More than 30 years of Exceptional & Unforgettable

Hunting & Canoe Trips in Maine

Maine Canoe Trips

Canoe trips on the Allagash River and St. John River . Guided and self-guided trips, shuttles, and transportation.

Allagash River Canoe Trips Guided Allagash River Canoe Trips River Conditions Maine Canoe Trip Planning Shuttles & Transportation

Maine Hunting Trips

Guided, semi-guided and self-guided hunts in the North Maine Woods. L odge Hunts available with meals and accommodations.

Moose Hunts Bear Hunts Upland Bird Hunts Deer Hunts

Choose from one of four private cabins or our main lodge. All cabins feature electricity, full bathrooms, kitchens, cable TV and wood / oil heat. Our smallest cabin sleeps 4 and our largest, up to 18 people.

Lodging & Rates

Guided Allagash River Canoe Trips

Join us for a 3-day fully guided Allagash River canoe trip. Our 3-day “Relaxer” includes all meals, equipment, gate fees, and transportation during your trip.

Relax, see abundant wildlife, fish and enjoy the northern Maine wildnerness.

Guide Service & Sporting Lodge in Northern Maine

Allagash has been a destination for sportsmen and women since the mid 1800’s dating back to Thoreau’s famous canoe adventure down the Allagash river. Allagash village is located at the confluence of the Allagash and St. John rivers and is the gateway to the North Maine Woods, a 3.5 million acre industrial forest lands. With four local access points to this 3.5 million acre recreational wonderland Allagash Guide Service is poised to serve your needs.

Allagash is famous throughout the eastern United States for its wild rivers, bountiful wildlife, world class hunting and fishing. Located in the most rural northwestern region of Maine affords us many popular year round recreational activities: canoeing, fishing, hunting, trapping, snowmobiling, hiking and snowshoeing. Rich in logging history the upper St. John River valley was founded and still thrives because of the logging industry. Established and oriented around the major rivers; Allagash, St. John, Little Black, Big Black and St. Francis our region is envied by many for its beautiful scenery and rugged lifestyle.

Allagash Guide Service is the regions premier hunting and canoe outfitter, we have been in business for over 35 years. Focusing on quality wilderness experiences, we strive to provide each customer with comfortable and quality lodging, fresh home cooked meals and renowned northern Maine hospitality.

Unlike other Maine hunting outfitters, Allagash Guide Service is locally owned and operated, providing service year round.  To learn more about how we can give you the vacation of your dreams, Contact Us Today!

Canoeing the Allagash Region

Learn more about canoe trips in the Allagash Region. Northern Maine is renowned for its two major rivers flowing through the vast 3.5 million acre forestland referred to as North Maine Woods. Rugged and peaceful beauty is evident as soon as you arrive in the headwaters region of the Allagash river and St. John river watershed. Paddlers from all over the world travel to northern Maine to experience the splendor of the vast wilderness.

AGS Merchandise

Shirts, Hats, Stickers, Gift Certificates and More!

Use the following form to place an order and we will contact you with total cost for items and shipping. Please enter all information including your preferred payment method.

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Guided Hunting Trips with Registered Maine Guide Dan Wood

Maine Black Bear Hunts, White Tail Deer, Moose Hunting in Maine, Bobcat, Grouse, and Turkey – we do it all!

Hunting Trips

Pick your game – Hunting trips for Black Bear, Deer, Moose, Bobcat, Grouse, and Turkey. We pride ourselves on providing a more family oriented experience and have a limited number of spots.

Learn More – Pricing – Photos

Lodging & Accommodations

Stay in our Lodge or a Rustic Cabin on the shore. Whether you’re in our lodge with indoor plumbing and hot water showers or our more rustic camps on the shore, we make it our goal for you to have a time of your life.

Learn More & View Photos

Your Guide, Dan Wood

Dan Wood has been hunting for over 45 years and a Registered Maine Guide for last 20 years. Born and raised in Maine, Dan was introduced to the outdoors by his father and it has been his passion since. The family purchased land on Kingsbury Pond in the late 1960’s and has been the family’s favorite destination since. Dan knows the terrain in Kingsbury and the surrounding towns like the back of his hand. A United State Marine Corps Veteran, he has served his country and looks forward to serving you.

Learn More About Dan

Four season recreation in the Maine highlands

Black bear hunts, black bear over bait, trapping & fair chase hunts.

Boundless Opportunity

Maine’s bear season runs from the last Monday in August through the last Saturday in November. Bears can be hunted with bait during the first four weeks of the season, with hounds for a six-week period that overlaps the last two weeks of the bait season, and by still-hunting and stalking throughout the entire season. [We currently do not offer hound hunts.]

In September and October, trappers can set one cable foot restraint or cage trap for bears. Hunters can take one bear by hunting and one bear by trapping. Bears can be found throughout the state, but bear populations are the highest in the northern and Downeast sections of Maine – Tucker Ridge is centrally located right between these two regions.

Due to the black bear’s secretive nature and the dense forests they inhabit, few hunters are successful still-hunting or stalking black bear. Maine’s bear season coincides with both the archery and firearms deer seasons, and during years with an abundance of natural food, bears are taken by opportunistic deer hunters.

Bait Hunting

We hunt bears over bait during the first four weeks of the season. We focus heavily on bait hunting and not hound hunting because roughly 80 percent of the annual bear harvest is taken by hunters over bait. The statewide success rate among black bear hunters is around 25 percent with success rates highest for non-residents who employ a Registered Maine Guide.

Fair Chase Hunting

After the bait season closes, we continue to hunt bears by fair chase only (no bait, no hounds). This season coincides with the bull moose hunt, upland birds, whitetail archery & whitetail firearm seasons. With a big game hunting license & bear permit, you may take a bear during any other hunt through the last day of deer firearms season – usually the Saturday after Thanksgiving. A combination of an archery deer hunt, wing-shooting for ruffed grouse, a fair chase bear hunt and a bear trapping option can make for an exciting October.

Bear Trapping

We trap bears September 1st through October 31st, providing our clients all necessary equipment, traps and baited sites. The bear trapping option may be added to a hunt for the opportunity to increase your chance of success exponentially – you will in effect be actively engaging bears 24 hours a day. We are certified by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife to supervise bear trapping by our hunting clients, so you do not require a trapping license.

Big Bear Potential

In Maine, there is always the potential to take a very large bear. Each year, hunters annually harvest bears that are over 300 pounds in size. The largest bear taken by a client here dressed at 326 pounds with an estimated live weight of 380 pounds. While most bears taken by hunters weigh less than that, the Maine State Record for black bear is 699 pounds, and was taken in 2012 near Greenville.

Text and descriptions provided above taken from Maine Department Of Inland Fisheries And Wildlife ‘Maine Bear Hunting’ brochure

We offer American Plan hunts with meals served family style in the Clubhouse dining hall. Camps are limited to 6-8 hunters per week.

Bear Over Bait Hunt  $2000 (1 Bear by Hunting)

Add-on Bear Trapping Option $1000 . (1 Bear by Hunting & 1 Bear by Trapping)

(Licenses & Permits not included) See our bear packet & brochure below for more hunt details.

You will not find a better opportunity to hunt Maine black bears on a working salary…our motto is “For hunters, by hunters”

Bear Hunt Brochure – Brochure

Game Processing –  Swan’s Custom Meat Cutting

Taxidermist –  DeLaites Taxidermy Brochure

References are available. Contact us with questions or to secure a spot..

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Bangor Daily News

Maine news, sports, politics, election results, and obituaries

What does it mean to live in one of Maine’s nuisance bear hotspots 

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The hottest spot in the state for nuisance black bears is from Presque Isle to Van Buren, followed closely by central Penobscot County, just south of Bangor, according to the state department that manages them.

A nuisance bear is one that has become comfortable with people and the easy food opportunities they offer and won’t stay away. It can damage beehives and crops, get into trash cans or dumpsters and steal or destroy seed-filled bird feeders. Dog food left outside and uncleaned grills also are prime lures for the bruins.

The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife receives an average of 500 complaints a year about nuisance bears, mostly related to bird feeders and garbage.

The range is anywhere between 400 and 800 complaints a year, depending on available foods, said Mark Latti, department spokesman.

Maine has the largest bear population in the eastern United States, estimated to be from 24,000 to 36,000 animals, concentrated in the northern and central parts of the state, according to the MDIF&W. There are fewer in southern Maine, where the concentration of people is highest.

In spring and early summer, after the bears have come out of hibernation and before berries and other food sources are ready, the animals are known to take advantage of their human neighbors’ larder.

Although they can eat vegetation such as grass, clover and tree buds and some insects, as well as carrion, bears are opportunists and will do what is easiest, often resulting in conflicts with people, the department said.

Bears also learn quickly, so once they have found an easy food source, it is difficult to deter them. Relocating the animals doesn’t work because they will just return, the MDIF&W said.

The best method is prevention. The department suggested bringing in winter bird feeders and raking up seed left on the ground or using an electrified mat if you want to continue feeding birds; using a bear-resistant container for garbage and waiting until trash pick-up day to take containers and bags to the curb; keeping dumpster lids closed and perhaps protecting the receptacle with electric fencing; cleaning your grill, including the grease cup, after each use and keeping the unit inside a garage or other building; and keeping pet and livestock food inside a building and cleaning up the uneaten portions.

Maine manages its number of bears using hunting and trapping, and determines how many animals may be taken each year by monitoring a representative group through radio collars.

The state has a helpful Living with Black Bears  website with more tips.

More articles from the BDN

Julie harris.

Julie Harris is senior outdoors editor at Bangor Daily News. She has served in many roles since joining BDN in 1979, including several editing positions. She lives in Litchfield with her husband and three... More by Julie Harris

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Field Guide To Boston

Day trips in maine: 3 itineraries for eating, drinking and adventuring your way through vacationland.

• Tulley Hescock, Maine Public

Summer day trips are a big part of life in New England. We visit our favorite beaches and ice cream spots, and we discover new bookstores and trails.

Journalists from the New England News Collaborative have been on the road, seeking out the best local spots in the region. Find ideas for Maine and other New England states at  http://mainepublic.org/daytrips .

Maine is known as “Vacationland,” and it really lives up to that name. Whether you want a day trip to the beach, a coastal hike or a mountain lake swim, Maine has it all. As you may have heard, we are known for our seafood, especially our lobster. When it comes to finding the best lobster roll, know that fresher is better, but be prepared to spend some money. We are also known for our spectacular lighthouses and ocean views. You might even see a whale or a moose if you're lucky!

Check out this list of fun things to do, places to see, and food to eat in three key regions of the state — southern Maine and the Greater Portland area; Down East Maine; and the Western Mountains. Know that this is not an all encompassing list but a good place to start your day trip plans.

‎Southern Maine & Greater Portland

Southern Maine and Greater Portland offer a great mix of beach aesthetic and small-city living. Known for its vast array of eateries, Portland in particular is a foodie and beachgoers dream. Plus, there are breweries galore to satisfy all your IPA dreams. As someone who lives here, these are the spots I can thoroughly recommend if you're looking to spend the day eating and exploring in the area.

What to do if you're a ...

Beachcomber.

If you’re looking to surf, relax with a good book on the sand, or find a spot for your dog to run, these are some of the best beaches in southern Maine.

• Higgins Beach  — This is a great beach for surfing and for lounging. Parking is limited, so make sure to get there early.
• York Beach  — A classic Maine beach with miles of sandy beach to walk, run and play beach games.
• Ogunquit Beach  — A popular beach with a cute downtown within walking distance, Ogunquit also has a natural lazy river that occurs with the tidal change and provides a calm area for kids to play in the water.
• Old Orchard Beach  — This is a busy location, but the beach and activities are well worth it! Ride the Ferris wheel and get some ice cream while you're there.

Lighthouse geek

• Portland Head Light  — This is a favorite among lighthouse lovers, and is located in Cape Elizabeth, about a 10 minute drive from Portland. The lighthouse is located in Fort Williams Park, with 90 acres of land for walking and outdoor activities.
• Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse  — A lesser known lighthouse, and my personal favorite, Spring Point Ledge lighthouse is only a 10 minute drive from downtown Portland and offers a great view of the water. Note that it's not easily accessible as it has some large rocks you have to walk across to get to the lighthouse.
• Nubble Lighthouse  — Located in York, Nubble is a picturesque lighthouse that's classic coastal New England.

• Evergreen Cemetery  — Established in 1854, Evergreen cemetery is the largest in Maine and, as a garden-style cemetery, it offers walking trails and a pond. It's also a great location for bird watching.
• Portland Fire Engine Co. Tours  — Take a guided tour in style! Ride a vintage fire engine while seeing historic landmarks and learning about the city of Portland's rich history.
• Portland Art Museum  — Located in downtown Portland. Note that there is free admission to all 4-8 p.m. Fridays. Through the Portland Art Museum, you can also get tickets to the  Winslow Homer Studio tour  in Scarborough, and see where the famous Maine painter made much of his work. (Available May 20- Nov. 10, tickets range from $25 to $70.)
• Longfellow Books  — Located in Monument Square, it is easily accessible by foot as you walk through downtown Portland. They have a robust collection of new books and very friendly staff.
• Cove Street Arts  — Check out Cove Street Arts to learn about Maine’s place in American art history and see multidisciplinary art exhibits. Note that they are closed on Sundays and Mondays.

With so many good food options across Maine, you'll be happy we have three meals a day. (Or more, if you dispense with formality!)

• Scratch Baking Co.  — Located in South Portland, Scratch is known for their bagels and baked goods. Make sure to grab some Maine salt bagels, and don’t worry, the line moves fast! Note that Scratch is open Wednesday-Sunday.
• Bird and Co.  — This taqueria serves brunch on the weekends and has a wide variety of delicious vegan options.
• The Highroller Lobster Co.  — famous for their lobster rolls, Highroller is conveniently located right in the Old Port and has a bright inside seating area as well as outdoor seating. Make sure to check out their merch as well!
• Duck Fat  — As the name suggests, this restaurant is known for using duck fat to fry their Belgian style fries, giving the food a rich flavor. Don't miss the poutine!
• Sweet Pea's Ice Cream  — Don't forget dessert! Stop by Sweet Pea's after a day at the beach in Ogunquit, Maine.
• Eventide Oyster Co . — Grab some oysters and fresh seafood at Eventide, and make sure to try their famous brown butter lobster roll.
• Crispy Gai  — Incredible Southeast Asian street food in a casual dining setting. You have to try their famous chicken wings, which come with your choice of sweet or spicy sauces.
• Allagash Brewing  — Take a tour of the brewery, order samples and grab a bite to eat. Allagash White, a Belgian-style wheat beer, put this brewery on the map.
• Bissell Brothers  — Bissell has a large beer selection as well as fun events happening throughout the year, and especially during the summer.
• Tomasos Canteen  — This is a great casual spot to grab a beer, share some wings with friends and maybe even munch on some fried pickles. Note that they have limited seating.
• Oxbow Brewing  — Located in Portland’s walkable East End, Oxbow is a great spot to listen to live music and drink an authentic farmhouse ale in their beer garden. Also make sure to grab some Duckfat frites at their takeout window.

Bar Harbor & Coastal Maine

The Maine coast stretches some 3,500 miles, including bays and inlets — meaning there are a myriad of beaches, islands and coastal towns to explore. Bar Harbor is just one part of the Maine coast, but it's a top destination, with Acadia National Park as a backdrop and a beautiful, quintessential downtown as well. Maine’s Down East region is known for its natural beauty and fresh seafood, especially lobster! I grabbed a coworker and spent the day checking out some of these spots.

What to do if you're a...

Nature lover.

Coastal Maine is a nature lover’s utopia. Near Bar Harbor, the go-to spot is  Acadia National Park . Acadia has a perfect mix of coast and mountains and has tons of trails and views for everyone. You will need to purchase a park pass for your vehicle upon entering the park, but note that these passes last for seven days.

If you want a chill outdoors experience

• The Ocean Path Trail  — This is a flat, 4.5-mile trail along the rocky coastline offering some amazing views of the water and nearby islands. This is a great path for all ages and abilities. You can park along the road parallel to the trail and start walking at any point, or you can park at the start of the trail at Sand Beach. This might be my favorite thing to do in the park!
• Sand Beach  — The name says it all! This beach is tucked between rocky cliffs and provides a great spot to have a beach day, go for a swim or play in the sand with your kids. Be aware that it can be crowded during peak season. Also make sure to take advantage of the free  Island Explorer  shuttle, which stops at all popular locations in the park, to help you avoid parking in the busy lots.

If you want something a little more challenging

• Cadillac Mountain  — The Cadillac summit is famous for being the highest point on the Eastern Seaboard and, depending on the time of year, it contends for the first place to see the sunrise in the U.S. You can either reserve a permit to drive up to the top; get an early start and hike up the Cadillac North Ridge Trail, a 4.2-mile out-and-back trail; or cycle up  one of the best-regarded, most challenging bike climbs  in the state.
• The Beehive trail  — This is a rung-and-ladder trail, which can be challenging for some hikers and not easily accessible. But if you’re up for the challenge, the 1.4-mile round trip promises great views that overlook Sand Beach and the Gulf of Maine.
• Cafe This Way  — a cozy breakfast spot with outdoor seating and friendly, quick service. This was a perfect way to start off our day in Bar Harbor. You can even get a breakfast sandwich with French toast as the bread!
• Looking Glass Restaurant  — A great spot for breakfast with a view of the ocean. Make sure to order a Looking Glass-exclusive item.

• Geddy's  — A classic Bar Harbor restaurant located right in downtown. The interior highlights a rustic Maine aesthetic with high-quality food and fresh Maine seafood. Don't forget to order a lobster roll!
• Finback Ale House  — There are a variety of whale-themed restaurants in Bar Harbor, as visitors can spot humpback, finback, and minke whales off of the coast of Maine. I had some fresh clam chowder and, of course, we had to grab a beer to finish off our day of eating and drinking.
• Thirsty Whale  — If you want more of a tavern feel, visit the Thirsty Whale a few doors down that has a wide variety of seafood, appetizers and specialty cocktails.
• El El Frijoles  – If you are headed down the coast towards Sedgwick, make sure to check out El El Frijoles (a play off of Maine’s famous L.L.Bean). This family-owned summer restaurant serves homemade Mexican food made with local Maine ingredients that you can enjoy indoors in a beautiful screened-in porch area, or share a meal with friends around the outdoor fire pit.

Lifelong Learner

If you’re a history buff or find yourself in Bar Harbor on a rainy day, there are tons of places to check out.

• Abbe Museum  — Located right in downtown Bar Harbor, the Abbe Museum is the spot to learn about the Wabanaki Nation’s heritage, culture and homeland.
• La Rochelle Mansion and Museum  — If you are interested in turn-of-the-century homes, you need to take a morning or afternoon and walk through the Bar Harbor Historical Society’s well-preserved home from the early 1900s. The mansion offers a look into a classic New England high class home with beautiful grounds and views.

If you’re more interested in Bar Harbor’s wildlife and ecology…

• Mount Desert Oceanarium and Education Center  — Here you can meet Maine’s coastal critters including fish and lobster, and learn about coastal habitats.
• George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History  — If you’d rather stay closer to downtown Bar Harbor, check out the College of the Atlantic’s Dorr Museum, where there's a touch tank for all ages to get up close and personal with starfish, crabs and other crustaceans. If you are traveling on the free  Island Explorer  bus, the shuttle stops right near the Dorr Museum throughout the summer, making visiting easily accessible to all.

If you are an art lover and are traveling down the coast from Bar Harbor, have you ever heard of the giant trolls of Maine?

• Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens  — The trolls are a big attraction at the Botanical Gardens in Boothbay. Their real name is “Guardians of the Seeds,” and they were made by Danish artist and sustainability activist, Thomas Dambo. The botanical gardens have lots of things to see, including gardens in bloom and a butterfly and moth house. They are open May through Oct. 20, and there is an admission fee. This is a great spot for the whole family!
• Center for Maine Contemporary Art  — Make sure to visit the gallery in Rockland. This museum focuses on art made by Mainers or people who are inspired by Maine. It’s a great chance to see and support local Maine art.

Rangeley & Western Maine

The western mountain and lakes region of Maine is known for winter season activities including skiing, snowboarding and hunting. But the area also is a great summer getaway, with tons of swim spots, hiking trails and places to eat. I would argue this drive is the most scenic in this guide. I made sure to stop by some of these places and see what Western Maine is all about.

• Winter skiing  — The mountain region is known for winter skiing. Check out Saddleback Mountain, Sugarloaf, Sunday River, Mt. Abram and Pleasant Mountain.
• Cascade Stream Gorge Trail  — For a quick day hike for the whole family, check out this short, 1-mile loop that leads you to see a series of waterfalls. This is a great option for kids.
• Saddleback Mountain via Ski Lodge trail  — If you’re looking for a more challenging day hike, trek the 5.9 miles (about 3.5 hours) up and back.
• Rangeley Lake State Park  — A great spot to camp, swim or enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake on the public access lawn area.
• Coos Canyon  — Check out Coos Canyon on Route 17, located right on the Swift River. There are swimming and cliff jumping spots, plus places where you can pan for gold!
• Looney Moose Cafe  — Located in Stratton, this might have been my favorite meal of the day! Not only can you eat a hearty breakfast, but they also make homemade doughnuts. Stop by on your way to Sugarloaf to fuel up for skiing or hiking.
• The Red Onion  — Right on Main Street Rangeley, the Red Onion is a local favorite known for their pizza.
• Classic Provisions  — This is a go-to breakfast and lunch spot in Rangeley. They have a variety of sandwiches and salads, as well as coffee drinks and house-made pastries. Plus you can walk two steps and grab an ice cream next door.

• Rangeley Inn and Tavern  — Not only is this a great lodging spot, but it also has an attached tavern that serves quality food in cozy dining rooms.
• The Mountain Social Kitchen and Bar  — This is a great fine dining option. They have locally made food and are located right on the main street in Bethel.
• Furbish Brew House & Eats  – Situated on Main Street in Rangeley, you can sip on your brew while enjoying a view of Rangeley Lake.
• Outdoor Heritage Museum  — This is a small but robust museum where the whole family can learn about western Maine’s history of hunting, fishing and wildlife from the 20th century. They even have a 100-year-old cabin!
• Rangeley History Museum  — Stop by to learn about the history of Rangeley and western Maine. This location is right on Main Street.

Lifelong learner

• Maine Mineral and Gem museum  — Who knew you could hold a piece of the moon in western Maine? Plus, we even got to touch 7 billion-year-old stardust. This museum has the largest meteorite collection in North America, plus tons of beautiful gems and stones. Their staff can answer all your burning questions about space rocks! Note that admission ends at 4 p.m., while the museum closes at 5 p.m.
• Did you know that Rangeley is located exactly halfway between the Equator and the North Pole? There’s even a spot on Main Street where you can stand and be exactly in the middle!

• Day trips in Massachusetts: Hikes, history made fun, ice cream and unofficial hot dog tours

More from Field Guide to Boston

Hunter and packer-guide from Pennsylvania talk about close encounters with Alaska bears

Two Pennsylvania men had several close encounters with Alaska brown bears during a May hunt that ended with one of them getting a massive trophy-sized bruin.

Big game hunter John Neilson Jr., 39, of Limerick, Montgomery County, and his guide-packer Frank Barcio, 34, of Erie, enjoyed an incredible adventure that ended with a trophy-size bear on the Alaska Peninsula .

Clients fly to Anchorage and then take a smaller plane to an airport in King Salmon to meet their outfitter Tracy Vrem of Blue Mountain Lodge and guide Aaron Johnson. From there, the outfitter flies their clients to a lodge. The hunters then fly again to their campsite. “It’s an incredibly remote area,” Barcio said about the tundra.

They saw different sizes of bears every day and some got a little too close to their camp for comfort.

On May 9 while setting up their tent, a heavy boar walked within 50 yards of their camp. The guide fired rubber bullets and then a 12 gauge loaded with bird shot to scare the large carnivore back into the wilderness.

“You sleep sorta with one-eye half open,” Neilson said about the bears. “But there’s really not a whole lot you can do, once you’re sleeping.” 

On May 11, their guide was eating a sandwich when a sow with cubs started to approach. Fortunately, the bears ran when he yelled at them.

The next day Neilson was returning to camp when he saw a bear walking toward their tent. “I yelled ‘Hey bear’ and threw my rifle over my head, the bear looked at me, I took my scope cover off, racked a shell in the chamber and yelled again ‘Hey bear!’" he wrote in his notes from his adventure. The bear saw him and slowly turned around and started walking away from the tent. "Once I got to the tent I quickly changed out of my waders, put on fresh undies, and then waited outside the tent.”

Barcio said the campsites have heavy steel barrels to put their garbage in and there’s an electric fence around the perimeter of the camp. If a bear touches the fence with its nose, the jolt spooks them. “It’s more of a safety net for us to sleep at night,” he said.

Neilson laughingly said, “I think that bear fence is more a psychological thing for us. I don’t know if it’s going to do much against a bear."

The actual hunt

Neilson shot his bear on May 14. When the men first saw the old bear, they needed to stalk about 500 yards through stream crossings, steep banks and a thick patch of alders. They stopped within 200 yards of the animal that was bedded down in thick cover.  

As they waited for it to move, six caribou grazed through the area and fortunately the bear didn’t chase after them. “I think he was just tired, it was a warmer day, the sun was out,” Neilson said. “They literally tiptoed around (the bear) and were watching him and scurried by. It was kind of fun."

The hunters watched the area for about seven hours until the large boar started walking. Neilson fired his .338 Weatherby RPM and hit the bear. He shot three more times just to make sure the large beast was down for good.

“There’s not many places in North America where you go and you’re in their territory,“ Neilson said. “It’s completely a surreal feeling and you get to a different mindset and state where it’s go time. It’s really an adrenaline rush for me. I love it. I think it’s incredible and obviously, it’s nerve-racking. You have so many different emotions flowing through your brain and your body. But when you do get on them and it all comes together, it’s just really a great experience and feeling. It’s fun.” 

Some of the habitat is thick where you can’t see far and you never know where the bears are going to be. Barcio said, “You can be 60 yards from a bear at a point and not even know.” 

When the hunt happens, you don’t have a choice but to focus on the task at hand.

“You have to get on them and you got to do when you need to do, whether it’s pushing yourself mentally to climb this bank that you normally probably wouldn’t be able to get up unless you have the adrenaline to help push you through it. It’s probably single-handedly one of the hardest and most rewarding things I’ve done even as a packer learning how to be a guide. Pushing through that to get even on that bear was a lot,” Barcio said.

The next morning, they packed the bear’s hide and head out about two miles to their campsite. The meat isn’t taken as there are concerns about it having trichinosis. Neilson said the main reason the large boars are hunted is for predator control. The large male carnivores can attack the cubs and sows.

“If they see a sow with cubs, they will try to kill them, so the sow will come in heat and they can breed her. They also kill a lot of younger boars, the up-and-comers,” Neilson said. "It’s a math game of predator and population control to keep everything healthy from the caribou and moose and it all has an effect.

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“Alaska does a great job at managing tags and how many bears they want out of each unit based on population studies and other animals that are in the area and I think they do a great job at it. So essentially you’re not hunting them for meat, you’re hunting them for predator control in the state."

Neilson, who does land development and property management, has been a serious big game hunter for the past nine years.

“I do quite a bit of hunting. Usually every spring and every fall I go to Canada or Alaska,” he said. “This is my fourth brown bear.”

He’s harvested the other brown bears on Kodiak Island, southeastern Alaska near Cordova and one in interior Alaska.

The bear he shot in May is Neilson’s largest to date. It is similar in size to his Kodiak bear, but the skull is at least an inch bigger. The bear from Kodiak Island measured 27.5 inches and this one is “easily 28 and a half,” he said about its green score. 

Skulls need to dry 60 days before they are officially scored for the Boone and Crockett Club record system. For Alaska brown bear, the skull has to measure a minimum of 26 inches for an award and at least 28 inches for all-time recognition.

“It should easily make Boone and Crockett for brown bear,” he said. The bears are skinned where they fall and they don’t have a way to weigh the animal. However, according to the Alaska Department of Fish & Game , a large male may weigh up to 1,500 pounds in coastal areas.

The hide measures 9-feet, 9-inches square which is a measurement from its nose to tail and paw to paw of the front legs added together and divided by 2.

Barcio, who is learning a little bit of everything from packing airplanes for the remote areas to judging the size of bears for the hunters, said this was an ideal hunt for his guide training.

“It was a full experience from seeing the bear to having to make a couple of moves, which is intense hiking to get to the next spot, and finally seeing the bear and waiting on him for seven hours and finally watching John (Nelson) drop this bear and the whole pack-out it was everything a bear hunt could be, plus getting a Boone and Crockett all-time bear, so it would be hard for it to be any better,” Barcio said.

Neilson agreed. “It was the complete brown bear experience for me. The outfitter was first class without a doubt,” he said. “This was done all first class and I got the complete, ultimate brown bear experience and I got a Boone and Crockett animal which is an awesome hunt. Definitely an incredible experience. I’m fortunate to be able to do this kind of stuff."

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Neilson preserves the memories of his hunts through taxidermy and is planning to have a full mount made of the bear similar to what he’s had done with his other bears and a variety of other animals like deer, elk, moose, caribou, and sheep, and smaller animals like a coyote and wolverine.

“I try to get them life-sized to give the animals justice. It’s a great display,” he said.

Both men look forward to future hunts and encourage others to visit America’s wild frontier.

“I’d say anyone from Pennsylvania should try to see Alaska one time in their life, at least once,” Barcio said.

Brian Whipkey is the outdoors columnist for USA TODAY Network sites in Pennsylvania. Contact him at [email protected] and sign up for our weekly Go Outdoors PA newsletter email on this website's homepage under your login name. Follow him on Facebook @whipkeyoutdoors .