News

Bear season opens in Nantahala forest, delayed in Pisgah

By Lightning Reports, Published: October 13, 2024

Bear-hunting season kicks off on Monday, Oct. 14, and the USDA Forest Service welcomes state-licensed hunters to return to the Croatan, Uwharrie and Nantahala National Forests. Opening of bear-hunting season in the Pisgah National Forest will be temporarily delayed as the Forest Service continues to conduct assessments and clear roads to recreation areas and infrastructure.

“Our crews are hard at work clearing downed trees and debris from roads and trails throughout the Pisgah National Forest, and we need the public to stay off the forest until we can complete this work,” said Forest Supervisor James Melonas. “Hunters are welcome on three of the four national forests in North Carolina, but trying to hunt on the Pisgah right now will only slow that work. We need everyone’s help to ensure we can reopen the Pisgah to all visitors quickly and safely.”

A valid hunting license issued by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is required to hunt on all National Forest lands across the state. For more information on applying for a license, go here.