I didn't go this year but went last year. I saw better than 40 bears during the week along with wolves, and a ton of ruff grouse. The ruff grouse was a new species to me and they were drumming by the hundreds. All new sights for a fellow that lives in the land of Dixie. The excitement of this hunt not only comes from the hunt; but also the different fauna, species, culture, and sounds. Nothing was familiar.
The fellow that went with me killed a nice bear that weighed 353 pounds and scored over 20! I took a shot on the last day on a bait that was molten red hot...so hot that 6 bears were on the bait when we got there and stayed the entire time...they never left and had little fear. The wind was wrong for this stand but it had so much activity the guides asked me in camp would I sit on the ground (as opposed to the treestand) to get the wind right..... and of course I agreed. I had bears as close as 5 yards but the one large one I decided to shoot hung up at about 25 yards and I promptly shot over the back! Arrrghh!! All the bears stayed at the bait that were there at the time...but this one left and didn't come back. I total I saw 18 bears on this last hunt.
The below picture might be the biggest black bear I ever have seen in my life. Its hard to believe it was a sow with THREE cubs. She was ornery as a cuss so she and I had to work out a rather strained agreement; she wouldn't mess with me if I didn't mess with her. It was a trade I was more than willing to make despite the constant threat of a cease fire violation:) The other bears kept their distance from her.
I'm booked again for late May in 2025. Its a wonderful hunt, wonderful guides and a great setup with lodging/food in the 'new' area. Everyone one should try to make this trip if they can. I'm pretty sure this hunt will become a regular event in my future.
Topic: Stickflingers (Read 796 times)
