What is the best time to hunt bear in BWCAW?

[Cove]

OK. The entry in the lottery was in by midnight last night. Now, I have to secure a week to hunt, assuming I get drawn in area 22. Sept 1 through Oct 12. Which is best, and why?

[charliepete2]

I'd say the earlier the better in the BWCAW. Since you can't bait, you're only real chance is to come across one while your paddling. I've been taking a week long trip to the BW for the last 17 years. I think I've seen 7 bears and maybe could have shot 2 of them. Good luck to you.

[Cove]

Hey, thanks Hubercita. I have been getting that same "early" recommendation from others as well. Yeah, kind of a long shot, but should be good scenery.

[Bandit]

I would go early as you can, If you call the C.O. up there he can probably give you some info on where they had bear trouble at camp sites.

[maros91]

I believe you can bait there as long as you pack it out everyday. I think that is what I read.

[tedl]

 Originally Posted By: Bandit

I would go early as you can, If you call the C.O. up there he can probably give you some info on where they had bear trouble at camp sites.

That is a good idea. The C.O. maybe hard to track down, but you can just stop in at the forest service off of 169 in Ely and they will have that info for ya.

[charliepete2]

Biff....I'm pretty sure you are mistaken. I don't think you can use anything but scent in the BWCA. Cove...besides bacon and honey burns you might tote along a predator call. Even if you don't call in a bear it's fun to have the coyotes and wolves come running.

[Cove]

Yeah, I have to figure out this honey burn thing. I already know how to burn bacon as my wife can attest :-)

The "problem bear" idea is a good one, thanks. THanks folks.

[bogwalker]

If you get drawn for a tag you receive a booklet with information including BWCA Info. You can't establish bait stations but you can use scents and honey burns etc.. The biggest obstacle is getting your bear out before it spoils. The DNR says you should bring a 60 quart cooler and 100 pounds of dry ice. After butchering your bear you have to bury entrails, bones fat etc. They also ask that all weapons, and dead bears and entrails be kept out of sight of other BWCA visitors.

[Bandit]

Believe me when I tell you that a 60 qt. cooler with 100lbs dry ice is not much fun to portage. Also the look on your buddy's face when you take the rifle and go on a nature hike after you have been burning bacon and honey for 3 days is priceless.[ The classic " What am I going to do if a bear comes" look.] I found that putting bacon on the rocks around the fire works really well, they get hot enough to get the scent out, and the bacon last along time.