Bear Safety while Fishing
Last Review/Updated: July 9, 2002
Because anglers often leave developed trails in search of a good fishing site, they run a greater risk of surprising a bear. Fishing along noisy streams, or having to work through shrubs and trees along lakeshores or streams could place you in danger unless a few precautions are taken.
With this in mind, anglers should do the following:
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Be aware of your surroundings and proceed cautiously, using all your senses.
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Fish with at least one other person. Check each other's position often. The larger the group, the less likely a bear will hang around.
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Talk loudly and make a lot of noise along streams.
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Wear bells or carry a whistle and use it often, especially along noisy streams.
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Avoid berry patches.
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If you see a bear or the fresh signs of a bear (e.g., tracks, scat, game kill), avoid the area and don't risk a confrontation. A startled bear can be a very dangerous animal!
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Carry bear ("pepper") spray. Make sure it is on your person and within easy reach. Read the instructions, understand how to use the spray, and test it to be sure of its range and accuracy (see If You Encounter a Bear).
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Keep a clean camp. Clean your fish at designated cleaning stations, if available, away from your camp. Dispose of fish offal in proper garbage containers. See Bear Safety while Camping for more information.
