The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is preparing for the state’s third annual Louisiana Black Bear Hunt, scheduled for December 5-20, with mandatory training sessions for hunters selected through the state’s hunting tag lottery.
A total of 22 successful lottery applicants attended a training session Thursday evening at the LDWF office in Lafayette, where wildlife officials reviewed hunting regulations, safety procedures and techniques for harvesting Louisiana black bears.
LDWF Large Carnivore Program Manager John Hanks and Large Carnivore Biologist Johnny Berry led the training, providing participants with information about the regulations governing this year’s hunt.
The session also covered hunting strategies, preparations necessary to safely harvest a bear, and proper techniques for skinning and cleaning harvested animals.
In addition to the instructional portion of the program, participants had an opportunity to sample bear meat prepared as sliders and tacos.
According to LDWF, a total of 42 hunting tags were issued for the 2026 season, providing hunting opportunities across all seven of Louisiana’s designated bear areas.
The mandatory training is part of the state’s preparation process for hunters selected to participate in the regulated black bear hunt.
Officials emphasized that the sessions are reserved exclusively for successful lottery applicants and are not open to the general public.
The upcoming hunt marks the third consecutive year Louisiana has conducted a regulated black bear hunting season.
Hunters and residents interested in learning more about the program, including lottery procedures and hunting requirements, can visit the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website for additional information.
For more information: Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.