Cory Glauner: Washington Black Bear Hunt Report

HUNT: Washington Black Bear Hunt
CONSULTANT: Outdoors International

August, 2016

I really like “off-season” hunts, anything different that gets me out of my routine, especially during the summer is right up my alley, just stay away from my September, that’s reserved for archery elk hunting in Idaho. So it was a no-brainer last year when I got the opportunity to hunt big black bears in Northwestern Washington during August to vet a new outfitter. Getting away from my office and the summer heat of Southern Idaho sounded wonderful to me. I called my buddy Brandon Couchman and we were on our way.

This spot-and-stalk black bear hunt is on the Olympic Peninsula, just across from Vancouver Island and has the potential for a real trophy bear. Washington has more bears than any other state besides Alaska. Our outfitter told us that we could expect prime-pelted bears, and big ones are the norm. There is very little hunting pressure, and no baiting or hounds. We would be targeting pre-scouted bears over six feet. With a success rate over 80% and a 100% opportunity rate, we were excited. But what we didn’t expect was a heat wave.

Temperatures were scorching hot when we arrived, and for the first few days of our hunt everything was holed up. We’d hunt clearcuts early and late, trying to find a bear brave enough to come out of the jungle shade for some berries, but we didn’t see hide nor hair. I was beginning to think that we were going home empty, but finally the temperature went down, we got some rain and the action turned up.

Brandon was first up to bat.

On the third evening, Brandon finally saw some action. He was hunting a big clear cut hoping for some long range action when they heard some branches snapping and out walks a toad of a bear at about 200 yards and he laid down the thunder. His bear only went a few yards before he piled up. It was a monster bear that squared nearly seven feet. A true trophy.

The next night it was my turn….

Well, I didn’t get a big one, we’ll just leave it at that.  I had my suspicions, and from that look on Carl’s face (watch the video) he knew for sure. But, it was the last night, the hunting had been tough, and my trigger finger…. Well, it’s itchy. But we had a great time and Brandon’s bear is a true beast. This is a fun, relaxed hunt, and if a trophy black bear is on your wish list you should check it out. If you would like more information,fill out this form or give us a call.

White Mountain Apache Bear Hunts

Montana Black Bear Hunting Trips

New Brunswick Black Bear Hunting Trips

Colorado Black Bear Hunting Trips

Idaho Black Bear Hunting Trips

Alaska Black Bear Hunting Trips

Wyoming Black Bear Hunting Trips

Washington Black Bear Hunting Trips

Thank you Outdoors International!

It was an amazing steelhead fishing trip! I brought my dad along with me and we slayed the fish. If you guys aren't applying for the OI Draws, you should. They're legit!

Tyler Kirk / OI Draw Winner

I couldn't believe we won!

We won this fully guided, all-inclusive New Zealand red stag hunt in the OI Draw! I highly recommend this hunt, and Outdoors International—fantastic company, amazing meals, and hunts that are second to none.

Brandon Ball / OI Draw Winner

I'm so grateful for the opportunity!

Thank you to Outdoors International, all the PH's and their awesome staff. I made some new friends and will be back to Africa again 100%.

Brye Mangum / OI Draw Winner

My most memorable and rewarding experience.

This was my first guided hunt, and the outfitter was amazing. He was able to keep me motivated and encouraged to hold out for true trophies. I would rate him on an 11 on a scale of 1 to 10! I never thought Africa would be a reality for me. Thank you Outdoors International.

Dason Lasater / OI Draw Winner

Cory Glauner Founder, CTO

With a background in web development, online marketing as well as years of experience as a hunting guide and outfitter, Cory Glauner is the founder of Outdoors International.

See Full Bio