I've been putting in for a tag since around 2008 and finally drew a tag this year. Now I am feeling pretty unprepared. In college I would ride east from Morgantown and trap in Garrett County and remember a few farmers joking when we asked permission to trap if we could kill the bears too while on the line and that they had, had problems with them, so I'm sure there's even more bears in the area now.
Has anyone had any experience hunting bears in MD? if so any tips?
I live on the Eastern Shore and plan on making a couple scouting trips out before the weeklong season but don't want to go too early since I know food sources will change before season.

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I live down in St Marys and also trapped up in Garrett
Often saw bears and fresh sign, often days after the end of bear season.
Until I pulled a bear tag, lol.

Places on public where I knew there were bears were crowded.
Know folks that have taken bears on public, but usually in bad, HARD to get in and out, spots.

I thought for a while the DNR had a program where they would hook tag holders up with private land owners who were having issues. I'd look into that first. If not might just take a ride back to those farms you trapped and see if they remember you and still have problems. At least you have an in when you knock on the door.

I’ve not heard of this program but will reach out to DNR