Bear Hunting Safety

Bill Kinney Photography

Bear is one of the great North American trophy hunting animals, they are also one of the most dangerous.  Take precautions when hunting bear to have an enjoyable hunt!

Depending on where you are hunting you can bait bear making it even more dangerous for the hunter.
In most western states it is illegal, but in some Midwestern areas, like Wisconsin and Minnesota, they allow it.  This can be very dangerous for a hunter, because you can almost certainly expect there to be bear in the area.  They know there is a food source there and they use it often.  If around the area at dusk or dawn be especially weary and listen for bear, the most dangerous moment can be when you scare a bear in close range.


Always carry a side arm as a precaution, whether bow or gun hunting, a back up is always good. 
If hunting somewhere that does not allow side arms bring pepper spray.  This is a great tool, especially at close range, just be sure not to get it in your eyes or breath it in or you will be just as incapacitated as the bear.

Bill Kinney Photography

Bears will usually be aware of the hunter. 
In baited areas they are very accustomed to humans and will probably not even care you are there, but generally a bears sense will alert him to a hunter in the area no matter what.  Because bears are predators and have very few natural enemies, they will not be scared of you and will go about their business without giving you a second glance.  Just be aware though that the bear knows you are there.  Also know where the bear is, because a bear can climb a tree and it will climb right up there with you if it wants too.

Some hunters believe a bow will kill a bear more quickly than a gun.
Shooting a bear with a gun is like the equivalent of using a razor blade, it is a very clean precise cut.  A bow will lodge the arrow inside and cause more damage as it passes through tearing the surrounding tissue.  In either case it will kill the animal, but makes it no less dangerous.  Always take safety into account first.  A bear will die very quickly and you will hear its death moan, almost like its last breath, and you will then know it is safe to approach.

Whats your opinion?  Which kills faster? A bow or gun?  Would you shoot a bear with a bow?