Kelcher ... I've hunted black bear in several states with bait, spot and stalk, and with hounds. Far and away hound hunted for bears is the way to go, no other type of hunting compares. To experience a bear that refuses to climb a tree and stands his ground on a few good dogs is something incredible. Unfortunately, unless you have connections, you will probably be spending several thousand dollars on a hound bear hunt with an outfitter.
In my opinion, the two best black bear hunting locations that a do-it-yourself could go, have a great time, and likely be successful would be Prince of Whales Island in SE Alaska or Northern California near Mt. Shasta. Both of these locations have ample black bear populations and a simple spot and stalk hunting method for a week should provide some good results.
It rains everyday there but SE Alaska has huge black bears and lots of brushy clearcuts and salmon choked streams, and I guarantee you will see bears. Mostly they will be solid black color phase. Northern California is much drier but they also have huge bears that grow fat on acorns and most bears are brown or blonde color phase.
If you camped you could probably do the California trip yourself for less than $1000. The Alaska trip will cost you at least $1000 to get there. A place to stay on Prince of Whales Island probably $400/week ... camping in the rain isn't fun to me. I'd assume another $1000 in stuff that will come up , so $2500 will probably cover a SE Alaska do-it-yourself hunt.
If this blows your budget I'd suggest saving another year or two and then go. I think you will find a western black bear hunt much more rewarded. If you want some more info PM me.
