Florida Bear Hunt Expands This Year | Jacksonville News

Florida’s bear hunt is expanding this year with up to 215 permits available — a major jump from last year’s 52 bears taken. Applications open September 11, with bids closing September 21, and hunts scheduled December 5–27 across four regions. After controversy last year — when opponents flooded the permit system to limit kills — officials warn future quotas may rise if such tactics continue. Supporters say hunting is essential for managing growing human-bear conflicts, backed by a recent voter-approved constitutional amendment protecting hunting and fishing rights. Residents and non-residents pay different fees, and selected hunters must pay quickly to secure their spots. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/d8cc7c29f847c403