Bears are often found along lake shores, river edges, and tidal inlets near oceans, where they can access a variety of food sources including grasses, insects, flowers, crabs, fish, and animal carcasses. This makes boats an excellent mode of transportation for bear hunting, whether to reach prime hunting grounds or to conduct the hunt from the watercraft itself.

Bear Feeding Habits in Spring, Summer & Fall

In the spring, bears primarily feed on grass, which is crucial as their stomachs have shrunk during winter. As the season progresses, they transition to fireweed and other plants, and by late spring and summer, berries become a significant food source. In the fall, bears shift their diet to fish, particularly as salmon migrate back to rivers and inlets.

Hunting Bear Along Tidal Inlets

When hunting along lakes and tidal inlets, a highly effective method in both spring and fall is to cruise slowly along the shore, scanning the area for bears. Upon spotting a bear, the motor should be cut off to assess the animal’s size and hide quality, as well as to determine potential stalking routes if it is a mature bear worth pursuing.

Four Considerations Before Stalking a Bear Along Shore:

• 1. In addition to scanning the shore, check nearby mountainsides and hills, as bears may be feeding or traveling there. Evaluate the feasibility of a successful stalk if the bear is far away.
• 2. If reaching the bear will take several hours, consider whether the bear will still be in the area when you arrive. If not, plan to return earlier the next day for a better chance.
• 3. If food is plentiful, the bear is likely to return the next day. Patience is essential in bear hunting.
• 4. If the terrain is relatively open and a close approach is possible, initiate the stalk. Always check the wind direction before and during the approach to avoid detection.

Hunting Bear Along Large Inland Rivers

Float hunting on large inland rivers is an effective strategy for searching for bears in spring or fall, allowing hunters to cover significant territory quickly. Look for bears feeding on plants, fish, and carcasses along the river’s edge.

Seven Considerations Before Stalking a Bear on Inland Rivers:

• 1. Don’t overlook distant hillsides and surrounding mountains, as many bears are spotted away from the water.
• 2. While floating, take time to stop in prime areas to thoroughly scan the surroundings from a stationary position.
• 3. If a bear is spotted close to shore, and conditions are safe, a shot can be taken from the drifting boat (where legal). However, this can be risky due to potential boat movement.
• 4. A safer approach is to land before taking a shot. Aim to approach from downstream on the same side as the bear, but be cautious of intervening cover.
• 5. Landing on the opposite shore for a clearer shot is often preferable, allowing for better visibility and follow-up shots if necessary.
• 6. For deep rivers, consider floating a few miles and then returning to camp at the end of the day. Ideally, launch from one location and have a vehicle waiting downstream.
• 7. The distance for a one-day float trip can range from 4-8 miles, with multi-day adventures extending up to 20 or 30 miles. Ensure that the land along the shore is open for public hunting or that permission is obtained for private property.

Interested in Hunting Bear by River, Lake, or Tidal Inlet?

For those new to bear hunting in these environments, hiring a reputable outfitter is advisable. They will have knowledge of the best water stretches to navigate and provide essential gear for cooking, camping, boating, and safety.

Bear hunting is an exhilarating experience, and pursuing these magnificent animals from a boat offers a unique adventure that every hunter should consider at least once in their lifetime.

Good Hunting