The Minnesota DNR is reporting impressive numbers for the 2024 bear hunting season. During the first few days of the season, from **September 1-3**, more bears were harvested than in all of last year. By **September 9**, over **2,600 bears** had been registered, compared to **1,000** at the same time last year. The total bear harvest for the 2023 season was **1,800**.
The strong start to the season is attributed to the poor availability of forest foods, which has left bears hungry and more active. Additionally, **8,000 hunting tags** were sold, reflecting a high level of interest among hunters. Bear hunting success has been reported across **northern and central Minnesota**, with some notable activity around the St. Cloud area. The bear hunting season continues through **October 13**.
In addition to the bear harvest, the DNR’s **August roadside pheasant count** showed a **34% increase** in the pheasant population in **central Minnesota**, in line with numbers from last year.
Today also marks the opening of **grouse**, **sandhill crane**, and **archery deer hunting seasons** in Minnesota.