Bear baiting requires a lot of time and preparation.
The common misconception is that it the “lazy” way to hunt bears, but it is far from it. While spot and stalk may require you to chase bears, bear baiting requires a lot more preparation to execute properly and effectively.
Different states will have different rules and regulations on how you go about bear baits, so make sure you check your area for those rules.
This article is intended to help the first time bear bait hunter be more successful.
Scout the area: The only way to know if bears are in the area is if you scout it first. If you just simply throw bear bait somewhere, you may not see any bears at all because they may not be in the area, which will result in a lot of wasted time and energy. Scout the area well. Look for signs of bear such as fresh scat, tracks, marked trees and bear sightings.
Once you know that bears are in the area, you have to figure out the best placement for your bear bait. Though a lot of people have different philosophies, I suggest placing them in canyons rather than ridges. The reason being that the thermals are more consistent and you want the entire canyon to be filled with your bear bait smell. You also want the wind currents to be consistent when you are hunting the bear bait and bottoms are definitely more consistent.
Now you need to pick out your treestand spot or ground blind. Set up with the prevailing winds to your face, so that bears don’t smell you. Be aware of your thermals throughout the day so that your smell doesn’t cause the bears to stay away.
Bear Bait: There are many tips and tricks when it comes to the actual bait you use. So many, that new hunters can be easily lead into false information that inevitably leaves them without a bear. Typically people use 55 gallon barrels, they are a great way to help you while field judging because it gives you a reference for size while your bear is next to it. Your bait should consist of foods that are sweet. Honey, candy, donuts, syrup, etc are all great foods to place in your bait because it only attracts bears rather than other predators. Meats will attract other predators which becomes a factor to consider after you shoot your bear. Lastly, drench the ground around the bear bait with grease. The bears will step in it and as they walk away they create a scent trail directly to your bear bait for others to follow. This will increase your chances at more traffic to the bait site.
The Hunt (wait): Once you’ve set your bait, don’t check it for about a week or so. After a week, head up to your stand or ground blind and stay all day from the start of shooting light to the end of shooting light.
Hopefully you’ll have yourself a nice bear by the end of it. It takes a lot of time and preparation, and it takes a lot of patient waiting.
Hunting with an outfitter gives you a greater chance at success with very little energy input for the set up. We have some great suggestions for outfitters at https://topendadventures.com/black-bear-hunts/