Backup Plan

[Wapiti23]

I’m trying to come up with a backup plan in case I don’t get my Wy elk tag or be lucky enough to get picked in the leftover list for the returned tags in Mt. One option is a fall bear hunt in Wy or Mt. I haven’t looked much at the dates yet but I think Wy has a season that goes till Nov. 1 and with my work Schedule I’m trying to find something for that early/mid October timeframe. What are your guys thoughts or opinions on this idea?
I’ve never bear hunted before and thought this would be fun but not sure if it’s worth it due to bear habits and such. Any tips or general help would be great. The Wy idea I think will take place in the Bighorn Mountains. Open to suggestions in Montana.

 

[bsnedeker]

From what I know of bear hunting, which is not a whole lot, fall bear hunting is really tough unless you can bait or run dogs. Your best bet is probably calling for them which can be pretty dangerous in grizz country which is basically all of MT and WY. If you're going to do that make sure you've got a buddy with you or you only call from places where you are safe, like up in a tree stand or something like that.

 

[Muledeerfanatic]

I would try to hunt the opening couple weeks of fall. After that it is a total chance encounter thing.
Find berries
Hunt berries

 

[idahohikker]

I would try to hunt the opening couple weeks of fall. After that it is a total chance encounter thing.
Find berries
Hunt berries

+1

 

[Squamch]

I live in a bear wealthy location, but my advice would be the same as others, find berries up high, and hunt there. In my experience they will sit in the middle of a blueberry patch and just strip bushes for hours on end.