Only to be beaten by 2003 when 1370 Black Bears got harvested. No matter, because it was still a 40% increase over 2008.

While overall population size plays the largest role in the annual harvest, take numbers are also strongly influenced by environmental factors that affect bear movements and the timing of bear denning, such as food availability and snowfall. The 2009 early bear season proved to be the most productive time for hunters in the Adirondacks, accounting for more than 50 percent of the bear take. Bears were more active during the early season due to poor production of soft mast (cherries and berries), and their increased activity were a benefit for hunters.

2009 Adirondack Bear Harvest

Bear Harvest Totals for 2009 – Second Highest in State’s History