We think these three hunts should be at the top of your list.
Unit 66 Fall Bear Hunt, 1x1
Hunt Black Bears in Idaho this Spring with Saddle Horn Outfitters! Extensive experience with horses is not required, our stock is made up of well seasoned pack animals, but you must be physically able to ride at least 8 hours on the pack in day and 8 hours on the pack out day.
Idaho
Black Bear
5700
Saddle Horn Outfitters
Public
Tent
Yes
Wood Burning Stove
Cot
Meals Provided
Unspecified
5700
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
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This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.
Unit 66 Spring Bear Hunt, 2x1
Hunt Black Bears in Idaho this Spring with Saddle Horn Outfitters! Extensive experience with horses is not required, our stock is made up of well seasoned pack animals, but you must be physically able to ride at least 8 hours on the pack in day and 8 hours on the pack out day.
Idaho
Black Bear
4500
Saddle Horn Outfitters
Public
Tent
Yes
Wood Burning Stove
Cot
Meals Provided
Unspecified
4500
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.
Unit 25 and 33 Spring Bear Hunt with Hounds, OTC Tag, 5-Day
The bear population in our area is quite strong.
Idaho
Black Bear
3500
Juniper Mountain Outfitters
Fair Chase
Public
Unspecified
Yes
Unspecified
Unspecified
Meals Provided
Unspecified
3500
Includes Dogs
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.
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About Our Black Bear Hunts in Idaho
Most important info about these hunts—landscapes, strategies, costs, and comforts.
Summary & Terrain
Idaho offers a classic North American black bear hunting experience set in extensive wilderness of timbered ridges, river corridors, and high-elevation slopes—often in areas like the Elk River drainage. Bears here thrive in conifer forests, mixed woodlands, and riparian zones where natural foods—nuts, berries, and roots—are abundant. Outfitters typically operate from a combination of drop camps and a home-base lodge, with access by horseback or four-wheel drive. Camps may be simple saddle-in sites or more developed backcountry stands and blinds, providing hunters with authentic immersion in remote mountain country.
Hunting difficulty ranges from moderate to challenging, depending on the style you choose and the terrain. Archery drop camps appeal to self-sufficient hunters willing to pack in light, while fully guided rifle hunts offer options for bait-stand sits, ground blinds, spot-and-stalk glassing, or even running hounds. Ladder stands around bait sites bring game within 20–55 yards, accommodating hunters of varying mobility. Spot-and-stalk and hound-driven methods demand good fitness and stealth, but most outfitters tailor approaches to skill level, so both first-time and veteran hunters can find a suitable challenge.
Black bear hunts in Idaho are typically based out of rustic camps that combine backcountry tenting with small cabin options. Accommodations range from sturdy canvas tents to basic cabins. Sleeping arrangements generally consist of cots in tent camps and beds in cabins, with a few setups providing unspecified bedding for more flexible layouts. Heating is handled by traditional wood-burning stoves in most remote camps, while cabins or more established sites may offer modern climate control. This balance of simple shelter, dependable heat, and comfortable sleeping ensures hunters stay warm and rested, whether pursuing bears in dense timber or rugged mountain terrain.
Black bear seasons in Idaho typically occur in spring and fall, with fall hunts often coinciding with archery elk season—making early booking essential. Guided programs usually span five active hunting days (seven total days including travel), while drop-camp trips may mirror these dates or be customized. Packages generally include guide services, meals, field dressing, and transport to hunting areas; license and tag fees are extra. After harvest, trophies are skinned and quartered in camp, with meat processing or donation options available. Flexible dates and multiple hunting styles make Idaho black bear hunts accessible year to year.
Black bear hunts in Idaho generally average around $4,200. Most packages run three to five days and include guided outings from rustic tent camps or basic cabin setups. Group hunts at the lower end of the price range often feature shared tenting, communal meals and access to well-established timber corridors. Mid-range options typically reduce group size, add cabin or bunkhouse lodging, and include more personalized glassing and spot-and-stalk support. Premium hunts—priced above the average—offer private guide service, guaranteed trophy opportunities in less-pressured zones, and upgraded cabin accommodations with modern climate control. In every case, professional field care of your trophy (caping, salting and transport to a local expediter) is built in. Keep in mind that tags, licenses and gratuities are additional.
FAQs
What you need to know before you book:
Are there specific regions of Idaho known for better black bear hunting?
Yes. Northern Idaho’s Selkirk and Cabinet mountain ranges consistently produce high bear densities, thanks to old‐growth timber and abundant habitat. The Clearwater and Nez Perce National Forests are also prime, offering a mix of timbered ridges and berry‐rich drainages. Many outfitters base camps near these zones to maximize bumping into feeding bears in spring and fall.
What time of year is best for hunting black bears in Idaho?
Both spring and fall seasons offer good opportunities. Spring hunts (mid‐April through early June) focus on emerging green meadows and den exit areas when bears are fresh and active. Fall hunts (mid‐September through mid‐October) target berry ridges and fruiting shrubs just before bears enter their winter dens. Weather and berry crop conditions can shift success, so local guide intel is key.
Are black bears in Idaho hunted more on public or private land?
The majority of Idaho black bear hunts occur on public ground—primarily national forests and BLM allotments that account for over two-thirds of bear habitat. That said, some outfitters have agreements on private timberlands or ranches to access key feeding areas. Hunters should verify land‐use rules and secure written permission when venturing onto private parcels.
Explore Our Black Bear Hunts in Idaho
Filter, sort, and find the perfect hunt tailored to your style.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Hunt Black Bears in Idaho this Spring with Saddle Horn Outfitters! Extensive experience with horses is not required, our stock is made up of well seasoned pack animals, but you must be physically able to ride at least 8 hours on the pack in day and 8 hours on the pack out day.
Idaho
Black Bear
4500
Saddle Horn Outfitters
Public
Tent
Yes
Wood Burning Stove
Cot
Meals Provided
Unspecified
4500
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.
Fall or Spring Bear Hunt Over Bait, Lodge-Based, Unit 10
You'll be watching the bear bait in a 15' ladder stand in the afternoon, when the bears come in to feed. Bait hunts offer an excellent opportunity for a trophy bear, and accommodates a person with physical limitation or limited mobility. Our stands are positioned for the hunter hoping to harvest with a bow or gun. Visible and shooting range from the bait is 20yd-55yd. Ground blinds can be used as well.
Hunting the American Black Bear in Idaho's Elk River wilderness is a thrill you won't want to miss. You'll stay in our first-class hunting lodge, enjoying homecooked meals and transportation to and from the hunting area each day.
Fall bear hunts coincide with archery elk season so bookings are limited.
Our bear hunts are fully-guided 5-day hunts (with the days you arrive and depart this trip is 7 days in total). Our professional guides will walk you through baiting, running hounds, or spotting and stalking, depending on the hunt you're interested in. We can also tailor a hunt to meet your specific needs, don't hesitate to ask.
Idaho
Black Bear
3800
Shattuck Creek Outfitters
Public
Cabin
Yes
Modern Climate Control
Bed
Meals Provided
Unspecified
3800
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.
Archery & Rifle Drop Camp in Units 25 and 33
Our archery and rifle drop camps allow you to enjoy the thrill of hunting in our operating area without the additional price of a guide. This does not include any license fees, tag fees, or taxes. The drop camp dates will be the same as our guided hunts unless special arrangements are made. We can also customize the dates of your trip at an additional cost. You will also be limited to one standard duffle bag for your gear that cannot exceed 70 pounds. Your sleeping bag can be packed separately.
Idaho
Rocky Mountain Elk
Mule Deer
Black Bear
Pronghorn Antelope
2500
Juniper Mountain Outfitters
Fair Chase
Public
Tent
Yes
Wood Burning Stove
Cot
Meals Not Provided
Unspecified
2500
Drop Camp
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.
Unit 66 Spring Bear Hunt, 1x1
Hunt Black Bears in Idaho this Spring with Saddle Horn Outfitters! Extensive experience with horses is not required, our stock is made up of well seasoned pack animals, but you must be physically able to ride at least 8 hours on the pack in day and 8 hours on the pack out day.
Idaho
Black Bear
5700
Saddle Horn Outfitters
Public
Tent
Yes
Wood Burning Stove
Cot
Meals Provided
Unspecified
5700
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.
Unit 66 Spring Bear Hunt, 2x1
Hunt Black Bears in Idaho this Spring with Saddle Horn Outfitters! Extensive experience with horses is not required, our stock is made up of well seasoned pack animals, but you must be physically able to ride at least 8 hours on the pack in day and 8 hours on the pack out day.
Idaho
Black Bear
4500
Saddle Horn Outfitters
Public
Tent
Yes
Wood Burning Stove
Cot
Meals Provided
Unspecified
4500
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.
Unit 25 and 33 Spring Bear Hunt with Hounds, OTC Tag, 5-Day
The bear population in our area is quite strong.
Idaho
Black Bear
3500
Juniper Mountain Outfitters
Fair Chase
Public
Unspecified
Yes
Unspecified
Unspecified
Meals Provided
Unspecified
3500
Includes Dogs
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.
Fall or Spring Bear Hunt With Dogs, Lodge-Based, Unit 10
Hunting bear with hounds can be the most exciting bear hunt you’ll ever experience. This hunt will give you the option of spot & stalk hunting and running a group of dogs to find your bear in the morning, and watching the bear baits from the tree stand in the afternoon.
Hunting the American Black Bear in Idaho's Elk River wilderness is a thrill you won't want to miss. You'll stay in our first-class hunting lodge, enjoying homecooked meals and transportation to and from the hunting area each day.
Fall bear hunts coincide with archery elk season so bookings are limited.
Our bear hunts are fully-guided 5-day hunts (with the days you arrive and depart this trip is 7 days in total). Our professional guides will walk you through baiting, running hounds, or spotting and stalking, depending on the hunt you're interested in. We can also tailor a hunt to meet your specific needs, don't hesitate to ask.
Idaho
Black Bear
5000
Shattuck Creek Outfitters
Fair Chase
Public
Cabin
Yes
Modern Climate Control
Bed
Meals Provided
Unspecified
5000
Includes Dogs
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.
Unit 66 Fall Bear Hunt, 1x1
Hunt Black Bears in Idaho this Spring with Saddle Horn Outfitters! Extensive experience with horses is not required, our stock is made up of well seasoned pack animals, but you must be physically able to ride at least 8 hours on the pack in day and 8 hours on the pack out day.
Idaho
Black Bear
5700
Saddle Horn Outfitters
Public
Tent
Yes
Wood Burning Stove
Cot
Meals Provided
Unspecified
5700
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.
Unit 25 and 33 Spring Bear Hunt, OTC Tag, 5-Day
The bear population in our area is quite strong.
Idaho
Black Bear
2800
Juniper Mountain Outfitters
Fair Chase
Public
Unspecified
Yes
Unspecified
Unspecified
Meals Provided
Unspecified
2800
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.