Washington is truly a bear hunting paradise. The bear population has been estimated at over 30,000, the most bear in the southern 48 states. Best of all, bear licenses are sold over the counter with no draw needed.

Bearpaw Outfitters are Washington's most successful bear hunting guides, they specialize in spot and stalk bear hunting trips that are totally fair chase, there’s no bait piles and no hounds used for this hunt.

With high bear numbers and licenses available over the counter, this is as good as it gets in the lower 48 states for fair chase bear hunting.

Hunting Areas

Bearpaw Outfitters hunt in northeast Washington close to Idaho and British Columbia, Canada. Countless wild berry patches attract bear from miles around. Harvest records show more bear taken in the Northeast Region than any other area of Washington most years. Best of all, it's easy to come and hunt, you don't have the hassle of crossing the border and dealing with customs for a Canadian bear hunt.

Hunting Methods

We usually hunt mountain berry patches, glassing for bear which are spotted at long distance and hunters must plan a stalk to get closer. Other times you can shoot when a bear is first spotted. It really gets exciting when a bear is so close in the brush that you can hear him eating berries, but you have to wait for a clear shot. If the thought of sitting over a bear bait doesn't really turn you on, and you want to feel like you earned your bear, then give us a call. This bear hunt is perfect for the bear hunter looking for a truly challenging fair-chase bear hunt. Once you've hunted bear this way, you’ll want to do it again. 

Shot Opportunity

Shot opportunity on fall guided bear hunts has averaged 70% to 100% and our spring hunts have been 100%. Unguided hunters are roughly half as successful as guided hunters. Shooting distances vary from 10 yards to 300+ yards. Sight your rifle dead on at 200 yards. Bow hunters should plan on 10 to 50 yard shots.

Trophy Quality

Hides are best in April, May, September, or October. About 50% of the bear are off color, so there's a great chance of taking a brown, blonde, or cinnamon color phase bear. Bear numbers and average size have increased since bait and hounds were banned in 1996. Most bear weigh from 130 to 400 pounds and measure from 5 to 7 feet. A few bear have weighed over 400 pounds and our biggest weighed 550 pounds.

Seasons

Fall Bear:  Seasons vary from Aug to Nov depending on Unit. Fall hunting is best in August and September when ripe berries attract bear from miles around. Bear only feed on berries that are ripe so timing is everything, the key to successful bear hunting is to be in the right place at the right time. The Denney family has hunted bear in this area for over 60 years, they know when and where to find the bear in this area.

Spring Bear:  Opens April 15 to May 31. Permits are limited and issued by drawing, apply in February. Turkey, coyote, and varmints can also be hunted with proper licenses and arrangements. The best time to bear hunt is the last half of May when most bear are out of their dens.

Hunt Options

Guided Hunts:  Several guide ratios and pricing are offered that include meals, lodging, guiding, and game care.

Guaranteed Hunts:  If you don't get a reasonable shot opportunity you have your choice of a 50% refund or a return trip at half price.

Unguided Hunts:  Includes lodging, meals, hunting advice, hunting map, and help with your game if needed.

DIY Map Only:  This is a Do-It-Yourself unguided hunt. A detailed hunting map is provided, you hunt on your own as long as desired.

Accommodations

Lodge & Cabins:  The facilities are only 15 to 60 minutes from most hunting areas. Enjoy meals in the lodge, a pool table in the den, indoor bathrooms, bunk beds in the cabins, and a lighted game cleaning area with water for cleanup. Groups of up to 16 can be accommodated.

What’s Not Included

Meat processing, taxidermy, licenses, gratuities, and other items not listed as being included. Bring your personal gear, and sleeping bag. 

Licenses

Hunters of any age can purchase hunting licenses over the counter. First time hunters may apply for a one time deferral from the Hunter Ed requirements. All other hunters must have Hunter Ed if born after Jan 1, 1972. Youth licenses are half price (even for non-resident youth).

Driving Directions

From I-90 in Spokane follow Hwy 395 north 70 miles to Colville, then follow Hwy 20 east for 3 miles to Bearpaw. 

Taxidermy and Meat Processing

Both services are available locally for a fee, or you may choose to transport your trophy and carcass home. Meat processing is usually done in a day or two.

Contact Us Today

Call or Email with any questions or to book a hunt. If sending a deposit by postal mail, use the Hunt Application to verify your details. "We look forward to meeting you and hunting with you soon."