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California Bear Seasons
These dates represent the “general” season dates. Check the individual hunting unit regulations for the most accurate season dates and regulations.
Archery Season All Zones
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Archery bear season in all bear zones. Hunters must be age 12 or older with valid hunting license and bear tag.
General Season Remaining X Zones
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In the remaining deer X zones (other than X8, X9A, X9B, X10, X12), the season opens October 10, 2026, and extends through December 27, 2026. CDFW shall close the season earlier if 1,700 bears have been reported taken.
General Season Zones A B C D X8 X9a X9b X10 X12
Ends
Opens with the general deer hunting seasons in deer zones A, B, C, D, X8, X9A, X9B, X10 and X12 and extends through December 27, 2026. Exact opening date depends on the general deer season opener for each zone. CDFW shall close the season earlier if 1,700 bears have been reported taken.
California Bear Licenses
Resident Licenses
| License | Availability | Eligibility | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Bear Tag | OTC | — | $62.90 |
Nonresident Licenses
| License | Availability | Eligibility | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nonresident Bear Tag | OTC | — | $397.60 |
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