I have the opportunity to do a Spring and / or a Fall Black bear hunt in 2008. This will be my first time after bear and I am curious if there is a difference in quality of pelt between the two seasons.

Spring bears are thick with a dense underfur but can and often will be rubbed.

Fall bears have slick glossy hair with no rubs but are lacking the thick wooly underfur and also can be very greasy depending onw where/diet.

Steve,

The Spring hunt is a pack-in hunt in a wilderness area. The Fall is most likely over bait.

Thanks for the rapid reply. I have read your posts with great interest.

I lived in Ak and took a few bears-Steve is right

Early spring is best. I've done both and the two bears I shot in the spring are...well...just plush. The Fall bears are good....but not plush.

i personally prefer early fall Bear furs. I find early spring Bear furs are thick and long and you will probably notice that you are always " brushing " them because they look deshevelled / messy. Fall furs , I find  have a shorter but thicker nap . Eric , I'm in Ottawa for the holidays, but will try and email you a pic of a Fall rug, as I do not know how to post. Just my opinion!

Thanks Sergio.
Sounds like I may have to go on a Spring and Fall hunt to learn which I prefer. Thanks guys.