A Hunt for Every Shade Saskatchewan is known for its wide-open, untamed wilderness and the variety of wildlife that call it home. Among the many species that inhabit the province’s wild expanses, one animal that really stands out is the black bear. People are drawn to these animals not just for their majestic presence, but […]
Saskatchewan is known for its wide-open, untamed wilderness and the variety of wildlife that call it home. Among the many species that inhabit the province’s wild expanses, one animal that really stands out is the black bear. People are drawn to these animals not just for their majestic presence, but also for the remarkable variety of their colour phases. Hunters who visit the province often tell us they’ve seen more colour-phase bears here than anywhere else.
If you’re a non-resident hunter who is looking to hunt a colour-phase black bear in the province, keep in mind: Saskatchewan rules dictate that you need to use the services of a licensed professional outfitter.
What else do you need to know about black bear hunting and colour-phase bears in this province? Keep reading to find out!
Despite what their name suggests, black bears can sport coats that come in various colours. Genetics, habitat, and even diet can all play a role in creating this variation. Saskatchewan’s black bears specifically show up in hues of black, brown, cinnamon, and blonde, with each phase providing a fascinating glimpse into how these resilient creatures have adapted and evolved over time.
The most recognizable and iconic colour phase of the black bear is, of course, the black phase. They stand out with their sleek, glossy dark fur, which provides excellent camouflage for blending seamlessly into Saskatchewan’s dense forests and shadowy underbrush. This phase is by far the most common, making up the majority of the population in the province.
The brown phase, often referred to as chocolate or dark brown, is another striking variation. They have a rich, brown coat that can range from a deep, dark pigmentation to lighter shades. This is especially common in areas where forests give way to more open terrain, like the farmland-forest edge. Here, their coats offer excellent camouflage against the earthy landscape.
Cinnamon bears are a captivating sight with their distinctive reddish-brown fur. This unique colouring allows them to hide perfectly among the autumn foliage and the reddish bark of certain trees. Though less common than the previous phases, wildlife enthusiasts and hunters love the cinnamon phase for its striking beauty. Whether for photography or trophy hunting, a cinnamon-coloured black bear is a sought-after prize for many.
The blonde or golden bear is one of the rarest and most striking phases. They possess a light, almost yellowish fur that shines brilliantly in the sun. Spotting a blonde in the wild is a rare and exciting experience. The blonde phase tends to occur in isolated populations, where genetic variations have favored this lighter colouration.
Joe Gerber of Pennsylvania shared these thoughts about spotting all four colour-phases at once,
“We were checking baits and there was a big Cinnamon Sow and she had a black, a chocolate, and a blonde cub. So there’s all your four colour-phases. This will never happen again to get all four colours in a picture.”
Saskatchewan offers hunters a unique opportunity to pursue black bears across their diverse phases. The provincial government carefully regulates the hunting season to encourage sustainable practices and support population conservation efforts. There are two black bear hunting seasons in Saskatchewan:
The spring season runs from April 15th to June 30th, though some outfitters may offer a shorter season depending on the post-hibernation patterns of local populations. Typically, they will schedule their hunting dates from early May through the first week of June.
The official early fall season begins August 25th and ends October 31st. Outfitters typically offer dates earlier in this period when movement patterns are more predictable and consistent.
Ethical hunting is key to keeping wildlife management and conservation in balance. Hunters should stick to all regulations and listen to their guides, who are trained and knowledgeable about best practices.
Outfitters in Saskatchewan follow fair chase guidelines, which emphasize respect for the animal and the environment while keeping the hunting process as fair, safe, and humane as possible. For example, if a hunter wounds a colour-phase bear, your outfitter will consider it harvested and and will reasonably pursue and recover the animal.
Outfitters and provincial conservation officers in Saskatchewan both play a big role in protection and education. They work tirelessly to keep habitats healthy and thriving.
Outfitters regularly check on their bear populations: assessing factors such as the number in the area, their general age, and overall health. With that information, they set smart hunting targets that aim to give guests a good chance of success while keeping the population strong and healthy.
Saskatchewan’s rugged wilderness offers not only incredible natural beauty but also some of the finest black bear hunting opportunities you’ll find anywhere. Success often comes down to patience and good judgment like knowing when to wait and when to take the shot.
The province’s black bears come in a range of colour phases that highlight just how adaptable and diverse nature can be. From those with the classic coat to the rare blonde, each animal reflects a powerful story of survival.
To witness these unique bears firsthand, contact a licensed professional Saskatchewan black bear outfitter.