BigGameHunt.net Hunting Forums

[diddydido]

Do you guys consume the meat from the bear? Do you hunt for the recreation, but keep the hide for the wall or floor (rug)?
My reason for asking is simple. I shot my first black bear this past spring. It was a juvenile - perhaps 3 years old, weighing ~ 200 lbs. Not a trophy bear, but I wasn't looking for one, either.
Today I received my fall black bear licence in the mail. I'm debating whether or not I "need" a second bear - as much as I enjoyed the thrill of the hunt. I certainly don't need any more meat than I have from the first one; I have the hide (including paws and head) for a nice wall rug; and I had the pleasurable experience of a successful, self-guided black bear hunt.
To be honest, I would much rather just accompany another hunter and share in their delight of bear hunting.
So, I guess the ultimate question is, do you guys ever feel that you've harvested enough bears (whether it be 1 or 100), especially considering what or how you will use the animal.
Sorry so long-winded, but this question has been on my mind for ages.

[Old Professor]

Good Question! I have taken nine bears so far and hope to shoot number ten in three weeks. I consider myself a serious bear hunter but give away most of the hides/heads. I love to eat bear meat. I really like bears and would not mind coming back as one when I finish this life. I have one bear tattoo and am probably getting another in a month or so. I register bear kills for the state and butcher bears for an outfitter. The outfitter stages the hunts out of my garage shop and I love the excitment and whole process. I no longer have the burning desire to shoot a bear but still hunt for the meat.
Last year I baited for my son-in-law and he got his first black bear and I was as happy as if I shot it myself.

[ChesterGolf]

Lots of people love bear meat so you can always give it away. The hides can be sold as well as the gall bladders so if you enjoy hunting them don't fear they will go to waste. Somebody is always looking for freezer meat. If not, skip a year and use up your meat and be back at it next year.

[billythekidrock]

We usually toss our hides regardless of condition. I would rather have the meat.

[diddydido]

All good answers...
I'm still undecided, but if I see a nice bear, my arm may be twisted. We'll see.