Spring bear season in BC opens April 1st, it is one of the best opportunities of the year to get out after black bears. As they come out of hibernation, bears move into lower elevations looking for fresh green feed. South facing slopes, alpine meadows, cut-blocks, and feed rich areas are all key areas to focus on early in the season. For hunters willing to cover ground and spend time behind the glass, this is a prime window for spot and stalk hunting.
Fargone's Favourite Spring Bear Hunt
Last year, we kicked off spring bear season by heading to the coast of BC for a true west coast adventure. This was not your typical hunt. It was a six day trip spent sailing remote shoreline, chasing black bears with bows, and living off the tide as much as the land. Each day was built around the conditions, glassing beaches and cut-banks and moving quietly along the coastline.
What made this trip special is everything in between the hunting. Free diving for fresh seafood, fishing productive coastal waters, and spending nights anchored in quiet bays far from any crowds. It is the kind of trip that strips things back to the essentials and reminds you why you hunt in the first place.
We documented the entire experience from start to finish, and we have a full film dropping mid April. Stay tuned for the release and a closer look at one of Fargone’s favourite spring traditions.
Gear for Spring Bear Season
Spring conditions in BC can be unpredictable. You can see everything from warm sun to heavy rain or even late season snow in a single trip. Having the right gear is not a luxury, it is a requirement.
A solid layering system is the foundation. The First Lite 308 Pants and First Lite Approach Hoody are built for exactly these conditions. Breathable enough for long hikes and durable enough for brush and wet terrain, they are reliable pieces for spring hunts.
Optics are just as important. Being able to glass efficiently and range quickly can make the difference when a bear steps out. The SIG SAUER Kilo6K HD Rangefinding Binoculars combine both, helping you stay ready without switching between gear.
If you are heading into the backcountry, your sleep system matters. Cold nights are still common in early spring, especially at elevation. The Argali 20 Degree Sleeping Bag is a lightweight and dependable option that keeps your pack weight down without sacrificing warmth.
Small essentials round out your kit. A dependable knife from Frontiersmen Gear is critical for field care, and a Fargone hat is an easy everyday piece that holds up in changing conditions.
Get Ready for Opening Day
Before heading out, take the time to review current BC hunting regulations. Season dates, open management units, and licensing requirements can vary depending on where you plan to hunt. Grizzly bear hunting remains closed province wide, so proper identification is critical.
Make sure you have a valid hunting license, the correct species tag, and understand the rules specific to your region. A quick check before your hunt ensures you are staying legal and hunting responsibly.
At Fargone Outfitters, we carry gear that is field tested in real Canadian conditions. No guesswork, no unnecessary extras. Just reliable equipment you can count on when it matters. Get prepared, get out there, and make the most of spring bear season.
