Equipment Suggestions Archery Gear The Law in Ontario: (Excerpted from the Game and Fish Act) In Ontario, longbows, recurves, compounds, and crossbows may be used during special archery seasons. For moose and bear, recurve and compound bows must have a draw weight of 49 pounds (22 kg) or more when measured at a draw length of 28 inches (700 mm) or less. A crossbow must have a draw weight of 119 pounds (54 kg) or more at a draw length of 12 inches (300 mm) or more.
Broadheads In late summer/early fall when you will be hunting, bears have begun to store substantial fat reserves in preparation for winter. It is not unusual for fatally shot bears (bow or gun) to leave very little blood. It is for this reason that broad head diameter becomes important. For bears, mechanical or expanding broadheads can be very effective. Although a bear’s hide is not a thick as that of a Moose, their fur is much thicker.
Should you choose to use mechanical broadheads then we discourage the use of those that open from front to back with the blades being held forward by an elastic as they tend not to penetrate well. Mechanical broadheads such as the G5 Tekan, Crimson Raptor, Rocky Mountain Revolution, NAP Spitfire (these are not endorsements; simply suggestions) that are cam operated have been very effective on bears. You could go as low as 80 grains but 100+ would be preferred.
With respect to non-mechanical broadheads; as a general rule, any broadhead that you use on Whitetail Deer could be used effectively on Black Bear.
Rifles Any high-powered rifle can be used tp effectively hunt bear. In the case of archery hunters, a 12 gauge is suitable for tracking purposes.
Clothing Bear hunters are not required to wear orange while hunting (See Moose hunt for details) but must have it available for travel to hunting areas, and for tracking. Rubber or otherwise waterproof boots are essential for your comfort during many hunting situations as well as a pair of comfortable walking/hunting boots. Rubber boots should always be worn to the bait site. Dark camouflage patterns are preferable and a mask or face covering should be included.
Other Suggestions A good hunting/skinning knife, compass, GPS, game bags, first aid kit, survival kit, cover scent, scent eliminators, flashlight. Red fox urine works well as a cover scent while in your stand.