Bear Hunting Tips: From the Field to Your Trophy Wall

By Stehling’s Taxidermy LLC – Jefferson & Green Bay, WI

Black bear hunting

Hunting a bear is an adventure unlike any other — a blend of skill, patience, and respect for one of North America’s most iconic big game animals. Whether you’re after a black bear in the north woods or dreaming of a grizzly in Alaska, success doesn’t end when the shot is fired. Proper preparation, clean field care, and choosing the right taxidermist can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime memory and a missed opportunity.

At Stehling’s Taxidermy, we’ve worked on thousands of bears over the decades — from black bears to exotic species — and we know exactly what it takes to turn your harvest into a stunning trophy you’ll be proud to display.

1. Know the Regulations and Seasons

Bear hunting rules vary widely depending on the state or province.

Research tags and licenses early. Many areas use a lottery or point system for bear permits.
Understand legal methods. Baiting, hound hunting, and spot-and-stalk have different rules.
Know size restrictions. Some areas protect sows with cubs or have minimum size limits.

Tip: Keep the contact info for your local game warden in your phone — it’s better to double-check than risk a costly mistake.

2. Scout Smart

Bears have huge ranges and seasonal habits.

In the spring, focus on green-up areas and south-facing slopes where bears emerge to feed.
In the fall, key in on food sources like berries, cornfields, or acorns.
Use trail cameras to pattern their movement and activity times.

3. Make the Right Shot

A bear’s anatomy is different from deer or elk — the vitals are set further forward and lower in the chest.

Broadside shots are best for a quick, ethical harvest.
Wait for a clear, steady target — bears can be deceptively quick to disappear into cover.

4. Field Care is Critical

The number one mistake we see at the shop is poor hide care in the field. A damaged or spoiled hide can ruin even the best hunt.

Skin promptly to prevent hair slippage, especially in warm weather.
Cool the hide quickly — hang it in the shade or pack with ice (but avoid letting it sit in water).
Leave plenty of hide for your taxidermist — it’s better to have too much than too little.
If you’re unsure how to skin for a mount, call us at Stehling’s Taxidermy before your hunt, and we’ll walk you through the cuts for rugs, full mounts, or half mounts.

5. Decide on Your Trophy Type Early

At Stehling’s Taxidermy, we offer multiple options for bear trophies:

Full-Life Mounts – Capture the bear’s full size and natural movement.
Half Mounts – Great for wall or pedestal display, often with habitat bases.
Rugs – A classic option, tanned and finished with felt trim.
European Skull Mounts – Clean, elegant, and space-friendly.

Knowing your preferred style ahead of time helps you and your guide make the right skinning cuts.

6. Choose a Taxidermist With Experience in Bears

Bears are one of the most challenging big game species to mount due to their unique anatomy, muscle structure, and thick hide.
At Stehling’s Taxidermy:

Every bear mount is completed in-house by second-generation taxidermists Aaron & Austin Stehling.
We use custom-sculpted forms to match your bear’s size and pose.
Our showroom in Jefferson and Green Bay displays bear mounts so you can see our quality before you commit.

7. Plan Ahead for Fall 2025

Bear seasons book up fast for both outfitters and taxidermists.

Contact us now to reserve your spot in our mounting schedule.
Ask about our in-house payment plans so you can budget your trophy without delaying your order.

Your Hunt, Our Craft
You’ve put in the time, effort, and skill to take your bear. Let us put in the craftsmanship to preserve it for a lifetime. Please stop by our Jefferson or Green Bay showrooms to see our bear work in person, or visit TaxidermyPlanet.com for more details.

Stehling’s Taxidermy LLC – Where Your Trophy Becomes Wildlife Art.
920-723-1224 | Jefferson & Green Bay, WI