Bear Hunting Opportunities In The Midwest

Photo Courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation

The midwest offers some of the best hunting in America.  From small game to large game there's something here for everyone no matter what their skill level is.  One of the exciting species available to hunt in some of the midwest states is the  black bear.  

The black bear can range in color from black to brown and have a sense of smell that is better than that of a dog.  This would explain why they are sometimes caught rummaging through garbage cans that aren't secured well.  The female black bear weighs around 150 to 200 pounds, and the males can weigh in at up to 500 pounds.  Black bears typically inhabit wooded areas, but will venture into open places when searching for food.  Although bears are a large animal, they generally avoid human contact; however, a bear may attack if it feels threatened.

There are three states in the midwest which presently allow black bear hunting.  Those states are Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin.  Missouri plans to begin allowing bear hunting at some point in the future.   

Michigan:

Anyone including nonresidents may apply for the drawing; however, no more than 2 percent of licenses in any hunt period will be issued to nonresidents.

Minnesota:

Bear hunting in the state of Minnesota is open to both residents and non-residents.  The state is divided into several areas with and without quotas.  As I understand the information, the non-quota areas do not require a lottery entry in order to obtain a permit; however, most of the land in the no quota area is private property so it is important to make sure you have a place to hunt before purchasing a permit for this area.

Wisconsin:

The lottery for bear hunting is open to residents and non-residents alike.  Wisconsin uses a preference points system which ensures that the sportsmen who get the opportunity to bear hunt are not the same people year after year.  Preference points add up over time but are reset to zero if you do not either purchase a preference point or apply for the lottery at least once every three years.

Missouri:

Missouri has stated that they intend to open a bear hunting season at some point in the future.  The state is currently working to boost the population to numbers that will support this activity.

- Any day in the outdoors is a good day

Truman State Park Missouri

With Memorial day fast approaching I thought I would write a post about one of my favorite state parks in Missouri.  Nestled on the banks of Truman Lake, the Harry S. Truman State Park offers an abundance of opportunities for outdoor activities.  Whether you enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, camping, swimming, metal detecting (with permit), canoeing or are just looking for a place to enjoy the outdoors the Truman State Park has it all!

Fishing:

Truman Lake offers 55,600 acres of fishing excitement.  The Truman State Park is also close to the Truman Dam which feeds into the Lake of the Ozarks.  Located below the Truman Dam are several public fishing docks that offer excellent fishing.

Boating:

There are two paved boat launching ramps.  One is inside the park and reserved for the use of those camping there.  The other is located near the state park marina.  There are plenty of parking spaces to ensure that many people can enjoy the lake access.

The Truman State Park also offers boat rentals at their marina.

Hiking:

The Bluff Ridge Trail offers a two mile long hiking opportunity.  Along the way you may see all types of wildlife.  While hiking this trail, take a few moments to stop along the way and enjoy a breathtaking view of Truman Lake.

Camping:

With six interconnected campgrounds to choose from, you are sure to find one that suits your camping style.  Whether you want electrical hookups for an R.V. or you prefer a more primitive camping style the Harry S. Truman State Park has it all.

Swimming:

There are two opportunities for swimming.  One of the swimming beaches is reserved for those camping in the park.  The other is open to the public and is located near the marina outside of the campground.  Both areas offer restrooms and changing facilities.

Metal Detecting:

Certain areas of the Harry S. Truman State Park offer access to metal detecting.  In order to take advantage of this opportunity, you must have a permit which is offered free of charge by simply emailing your request to  moparks@dnr.mo.gov.

Canoeing:

Besides boating, the entire Truman lake is open to those who wish to enjoy canoeing and kayaking.  Set off into the water from one of the two marinas and let the fun begin!

No matter what outdoor activity you enjoy, you are sure to find it at the Harry S. Truman State Park.  Show up for some fun - Leave with a lifetime of memories!

Note:  Be sure to book you campsite early as this place fills up fast.

If you enjoyed this post and would like to see more posts on the state parks throughout the midwest, please leave a comment below and let me know.

- Any day in the outdoors is a good day