Re: [Paddlewise] Bear Bags

From: Bob Carter <revkayak_at_mtaonline.net>
Date: Thu, 30 May 2002 08:10:02 -0800
    One observation I have made about bears is they will often investigate
the high tide mark of a beach to see if the tide washed in any food. I have
seen them work the high tide mark from one end of a beach to another. So try
not to leave your boat too close to the high tide mark.
    The main thing to remember about bears is they find their food mostly
through sense of smell, so keeping a clean camp is important. It is also why
I never fish on a camping trip. I have had fishermen offer me fresh caught
salmon and I have had to say know because the only place I could have out it
at that moment was in my lap!
    Also they are creatures of habit who if they find food in a place , such
as a popular camping spot, they will continue to return. This has been a
real problem in Glacier Bay uphere in  Alaska.
    Depending what is available I either hang my food up or keep it in my
boat. I realize this will spark some debate but I keep all my food sealed in
dry bags. I am meticulas about not getting food smells on the outside of the
bag and I seal up the hatches on my boat at night. I place the boat about 20
yards from my tent and keep my bear spray and a .357 handy. I have camped a
lot in bear territory and have had many a bear in camp and have yet to lose
any food or had damage to a boat.
Good luck and happy camping

Bob


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Received on Thu May 30 2002 - 09:12:52 PDT

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