There are bears all around, especially if they are not grazing sheep there ( shepherds shoot bears). From what I have seen, there is a really big chance for a cinnamon color phase.
If you kill an elk ( or find a carcass) there will be a bear on it soon. They feed heavily on oakbrush acorns if the crop s good, and the upper north slopes very often have berries and choke cherries. The tags went up in price and I am hesitant to buy an elk and a bear tag now, although I have in the past.
There are also trout streams around. There might be small game ( ie grouse) to hunt also. I have been spotty seeing them and almost always on the edges of woods / sage fields.
There are also kitties, the big kind ( though none named, that I know of).
No ATVs is a plus.
For scouting, get a map, MyTopo,com is a good fast source. Check out the area for lack of roads ( there may be jeep trails, but those are likely not used. Look for water sources.
I would hit the wooded ridges first, then look for wallows. Early season is often hot, at elevation standing in the sun then moving ten feet, into shade, will yield what feels like 20 degrees difference. Dark timber ( pines on north slopes) is a good place to be. Glass the oakbrush across from it. Bring binoculars.
Learn to stop walking in the shade, not in the sun. It is also better to keep you hidden that way.
ChuckC
Topic: Ragged Wilderness area Elk.... (Read 2587 times)
