Florida Wildlife
FWC confirms plans for bear "trophy hunt"
The proposed December 2025 hunt will include baiting, archery, and packs of dogs. To help the bears, see how in article.
Posted
From Bear Warriors United
In a shocking development at Tuesday’s Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) meeting, officials confirmed their intent to move forward with a controversial trophy bear hunt in December 2025—despite admitting that Florida’s black bear population has not increased since 2015.
FWC representatives stated they do not need approval to authorize the hunt, claiming it is already an approved “management tool.” Instead, they will use the May 2025 Commission meeting to propose rule changes that would make this hunt even more extreme and inhumane than the widely condemned 2015 hunt.
PROPOSED RULE CHANGES INCLUDE:
- Baiting stations to lure bears, making them easy targets.
- Archery weapons, increasing the chance of prolonged suffering.
- Permitting out-of-state hunters and children to participate.
- Hunting dogs to chase bears into trees (starting in 2027).
- Allowing up to nine people to fire at one bear, even if only one holds a permit.
These proposals have no basis in science, conservation, or public safety. Instead, they cater to special interest groups at the expense of Florida’s iconic black bears—and against the will of the vast majority of Floridians, who have repeatedly voiced opposition to bear hunting.
These proposals have no basis in science, conservation, or public safety. Instead, they cater to special interest groups at the expense of Florida’s iconic black bears—and against the will of the vast majority of Floridians, who have repeatedly voiced opposition to bear hunting.
HOW YOU CAN HELP:
1. Attend the Virtual FWC Bear Meeting
Saturday, April 5, 2025 | 9 AM–12 PM
4. Join the RALLY FOR FLORIDA BLACK BEARSLake Eola Park, Downtown Orlando – Northeast Lawn
Sunday, May 4, 2025 | 12 PM–2 PM
Facebook Event Page
6. Call the FWC
(850) 488-4676
7. Speak at the Next FWC Public Meeting
May 21–22, 2025
Make travel arrangements to attend in person and voice your opposition.
Additional Resources & Media Coverage:
Keywords
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Whis the FWC allowing a bear hunt?
