New Jersey’s 2026 black bear hunting season is set to begin Monday, Oct. 12, with hunting permitted in five designated bear management zones.

The first segment of the hunt runs through Oct. 17, according to New Jersey Fish and Wildlife.

Archery is permitted throughout the six-day segment. Hunters may also use muzzleloader rifles during the final three days, Oct. 15-17.

Only Bear Management Zones 1 through 5 are open for bear hunting this season. Hunters must have a permit for the specific zone where they hunt and may harvest only one bear during each segment.

Hunters may not kill a bear weighing less than 75 pounds live weight or 50 pounds dressed. Regulations also prohibit killing an adult bear accompanied by cubs.

Hunters may not attempt to kill a bear or have a loaded weapon within 300 feet of a baited area while bear hunting.

All harvested bears must be brought to a mandatory bear check station. Stations will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. during the first segment. The Green Pond check station is closed.

Apprentice license holders are not eligible to hunt black bears. Hunters ages 10 through 13 must be directly supervised by a properly licensed adult who also has a black bear permit.