NewsCreative Loafing Tampa BayAugust 31, 2026Hillsborough
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission increases bear hunting permits for upcoming season
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is increasing the number of available bear hunting permits for the upcoming season compared to 2025. The agency plans to issue up to 215 permits, with 193 available for public bidding.
Read the full story at Creative Loafing Tampa BayWhy It Matters
The change increases the total number of bears that may be legally harvested in Florida this year, affecting both hunting participants and wildlife conservation efforts.
Key Facts
- The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is increasing the total number of bear hunting permits compared to the 2025 season.
- A total of 215 permits will be offered for the upcoming hunt.
- 193 of the available permits are designated for public bidding.
- Non-hunters are expected to apply for permits as a strategy to limit the number of bears harvested.
Who's Mentioned
organizationFlorida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission“The state agency managing the bear hunt and permit distribution.”locationOsceola Wildlife Management Area“A designated hunting region in the North zone.”organizationSierra Club Florida“An organization opposing the hunt and encouraging permit applications to reduce ”locationOcala Wildlife Management Area“A designated hunting region in the Central zone.”locationApalachicola Wildlife Management Area“A designated hunting region in the East Panhandle.”