Hunting Season by State

North Carolina Bear Season 2026-27

Opens in 6 days

North Carolina's bear season opens 2026-10-03 and closes 2027-01-01.

Last verified September 25, 2026North Carolina wildlife agency

Zones & dates

  • Mountain Bear Zone

    Segment 1

    Opens in 6 days
    Opens
    October 3, 2026
    Closes
    November 21, 2026
    Bag limit
    See official regulations for bag limits.

  • Mountain Bear Zone

    Segment 2

    Opens in 76 days
    Opens
    December 12, 2026
    Closes
    January 1, 2027
    Bag limit
    See official regulations for bag limits.

Key rules

Dates and units
Use the zone or region shown for your hunt.
Official regulations
Confirm license, permit, legal shooting hours, bag limits, and special requirements with the state agency before hunting.

Frequently asked questions

North Carolina's bear season opens 2026-10-03 and closes 2027-01-01.

Nearby states

Regulations change every year and can vary by county or unit. Hunting Season by State is a reference tool, not a substitute for the official regulation book — always verify dates, zones, and bag limits with the state wildlife agency before you hunt.