A bear is considered a big game animal. It’s also one of the most popular trophy hunts by hunters. Other examples of big game animals include moose, elks, deer, and boars, among others. Big-game hunting is now an efficient tool to conserve wildlife. Aside from its recreational purposes, hunters connect to organizations to practice wildlife management. Through this, most hunters gain an appreciation of the animals and nature itself. If you plan to join the big game hunting, you need a hunting license and permits for your crossbow. You also have to follow your state’s fish and wildlife department regulations. Crossbows must have a minimum draw weight of 125 pounds for big game hunting. It should also have a draw length of about 14-inches. In some states, the requirements for a crossbow may vary, depending on the state’s regulations. There are now 27 states that allow the use of crossbows during archery deer and firearm season. The states are: Alabama Alaska Arkansas California Delaware Georgia Illinois Indiana Kansa Louisiana Michigan Mississippi Missouri Nebraska New Jersey North Carolina Ohio Oklahoma Pennsylvania South Carolina Tennessee Texas Vermont Virginia West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Moreover, seven states allow the use of crossbows in firearms season only. The following states are: Colorado Maine Montana Nevada North Dakota New Hampshire New York Aside from a hunting license and permits, you need to consider the crucial elements. As a hunter, you need to have skill, knowledge, preparation, experience, and patience. It’s also necessary to know the variables you need to look out for when you’re hunting. The following factors are: Habitat Bears live in forests or wooded areas where they can eat fruits, fruits, and vegetation. Many bears usually feed at the same place but at different times. Wherever there is plenty of foliage, forbs, or buds, you’ll find a bear there. Wind Bears have a keen sense of smell due to their nasal sinuses that can detect scents. Aside from finding food and interacting, they also use their nose to detect threats. During the hunt, make sure to consider the wind direction because bears can detect your scent with it. Scent control while crossbow hunting is necessary for stealth. It’s important to position yourself downwind. Be aware of the bear’s location and take note of a suitable place for you to stay. You can reduce the chance of a bear detecting your presence by using masking scent or cover spray. Tree Stand Safety Using a tree stand is a popular big game hunting equipment. It should be at least twelve feet off the ground to prevent bears from reaching you. Also, keep in mind the reach or swatting distance of a bear. Regulations on using a tree stand may also vary, depending on your location.