Hunting Washington Forum

Big Game Hunting => Bear Hunting => Topic started by: billythekidrock on March 12, 2007, 06:46:56 PM


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Title: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 12, 2007, 06:46:56 PM
Anyone apply?
Where?
Why?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 12, 2007, 07:14:52 PM
I did, Dayton area as they have lots of bear, and the spring onions makes them very visible versus other parts.  Second if that reallymatters, the Colville.  It has many many more bear, but they are not as visible.  Lots more tags this year with them opening that part of the state.  I hope to get drawn.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 12, 2007, 08:53:45 PM
I will be applying for the westside, just not sure what unit. I guess I need to make up my mind. Someday I would like to hunt bears around Colville, but that is a long way to go.

Have you ever tried calling in the areas that they are not as visible?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 13, 2007, 06:37:40 AM
YES I have, and its fun, nerve racking, quite the adrenaline rush.   I would suggest either having a partner along, or call where its a little more open.  They come in hard and fast.  Its not like rattling whities or calling in Turkeys.  These guys are expecting to eat upon arrival.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 13, 2007, 05:04:36 PM
Belive me, I know what a rush it is. I was just curious if you had tried it.

I have called in over two dozen bears. Most of the bear I have killed have been called either with a predator call or cow elk call. I have had them come running, popping teeth as well as had them come in as silent as can be. It is allways a rush.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: chep on March 17, 2007, 05:38:44 PM
I guess I missed the cutoff for spring bears. I would like to get a bear if I have the opportunity this season.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 17, 2007, 05:56:29 PM
Well I put in for Copalis on the coast, but now I wish I hadn't. The access issues aren't as bad as Kapowsin, but they are going to be a pain in the rear regardless. Oh well, it's only 6 bucks. If I get drawn and don't go it won't be a big deal.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Jerome on March 17, 2007, 05:58:44 PM
I would just like something other than that try again next year card.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 18, 2007, 08:22:36 AM
Anybody know when they are going to post results?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 18, 2007, 08:35:05 AM
I have posted this elsewhere, but here is one that I got two years ago during the spring hunt.
(http://www.hunt101.com/img/312495.jpg)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 18, 2007, 08:37:55 AM
I know that we are going to be notified by mail before the end of the month and typically the results are posted about a week before I get my card. This year I signed up for the results to be emailed to me so I am hoping to find out by next weekend.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 18, 2007, 01:19:54 PM
Thanks....Thats a great looking bear! :tup:  What general area or region?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 18, 2007, 05:32:11 PM
I killed that one in the Capitol Forest. At that time they had 100 permits. This year there will be 50 permits. They pretty much knocked the crap out of the bears there the last few years. :(
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 19, 2007, 09:39:56 AM
He's a Dandy, thats for sure.  I'm hoping for results SOON!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: chep on March 19, 2007, 10:18:30 AM
That's a great looking bear.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Jerome on March 19, 2007, 06:31:06 PM
Yeah thats definately one to be proud of.  You get a rug done?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bowpredator on March 19, 2007, 06:41:35 PM
Hey billy, great looking bear have you scored him? I thought I saw that they were giving out 100 permits for capitol forest this year. I also put in for copalis this year. Where do you get permits for copalis? I didn't see any mention about permits on the game depts web site, they must send you that info if you draw? Predator
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: BrushChimp on March 19, 2007, 07:18:11 PM
I put in for Capitol Forest and Kapowsin units. First year ever putting in... Hey billy, did you call that bear in or just happen upon it and shoot it?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bobcat on March 20, 2007, 12:01:25 PM
bowpredator,  Capitol Forest was reduced to 50 permits, apparently due to a reduction in the bear population there, in the last couple of years. Here is a link to the actual WAC on that:  http://search.leg.wa.gov/wslwac/WAC%20232%20%20TITLE/WAC%20232%20-%2028%20%20CHAPTER/WAC%20232%20-%2028%20-286.htm
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Machias on March 20, 2007, 07:23:56 PM
Hey Billy nice HOG there  :) Hey if you guys don't get drawn, ID has some 2 bear units over in the Clearwater area, the tags are only $31.50 for non-residents.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 20, 2007, 09:52:01 PM
Thanks guys..and no, I did not do a rug or mount of that bear.....I wish I had, but at the time I wasn't working much and since we already have three bear mounts..A year later he scored 20 inches even.

Bowpredator - The access permits must be picked up in Aberdeen. There is no mention of the permits online that I can find, except on the press release at F&G. I don't think F&G will send out any info on access, we will be lucky to get maps for the CF, we found out by calling the timber company.

Brushchimp - I called that bear in, it only took an hour!. It was one of 3 bears I called that spring. Poster/member Bobcat also called in a couple good bears that spring. Good luck on the CF, but I hope you don't get the Kapowsin tag unless you are familiar with the area and the politics of the unit. I know they were purchased by a new company, but I understand that alot of the same practices will be followed again this year.

Machias - You want to be an unpaid guide? LOL
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Machias on March 20, 2007, 10:36:18 PM
 :)  There is sooo much room and sooo many bears, I'd be more than happy to point some areas out for you.  The season opens 1 April, but you'll have a heck of a time getting into alot of areas without a snowmobile.  I am going to try and get in ahead of other folks with my snowmobile this year.  Not a bad deal, $140 for a hunting lic, 31.50 for a tag and you can hunt bear from 1 Apr to the end of Jun, I think, let me double check that.  Awesome country.  Also you can bait for $11.50 more.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 21, 2007, 09:09:59 AM
You're killin' me now.  I already have my Idaho license, but thought in my mind you had to draw for Spring bear over there as well.   Some investigation needs to be done. :)

P.S.  I've been drooling over your hound add.  I've been really contemplating getting some hounds, but know the time and other committments.  My best friend was a houndsman on the west side, but his family moved to Idaho when Washington changed the regs.  Anyhow, it was alot of fun running with them.  Now that Washington is opening a little, I've thought about it.  I would be very green at training them, but I guess thats half the fun.  I think I would be more into cats than I would bears, but its all fun.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Jerome on March 21, 2007, 09:24:22 AM
Boneaddict you buy the bluetick, i will bring the one walker that i have left that needs some work and we will get em treed.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 21, 2007, 11:01:10 AM
Just might happen.  All I have to do is convinve the wife I NEED hunting dogs.  With you guys as a source, I just might have some training help.  I think this year is out in Idaho unless you put in for your hound stamp in like December.  I'll have to look into that. 
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Machias on March 21, 2007, 11:57:17 AM
The only Idaho non-resident hound permits left are in wilderness areas...true wilderness areas.  I would not turn a dog loose in most of what is left available.  Couple of things to consider with dogs, we have a decent coon season, better if you live on the westside as they have a much better coon population.  Lots of fun chasing coons.  You can apply for lion permits, but they are hit and miss :)  Some guys get permits to run bear on damage complaints from the timber companies, I'm not sure how that process works.  You can apply for the Idaho tags, I think it is before 1 Dec each year, but they only have 70 statewide non-resident hound permits, they went to that after all the WA houndsmen moved there.  They do have some decent areas in the Clearwater, still big areas but boy you can sure run allot of ground, but you also have to apply for those by 1 Dec.  Another option is bobcats in Oregon is open to non-residents for $188 a year, however one bobcat treed would more than cover the cost of your tag.  And then you can run bear in Northern CA, long season and lots of bears and really it's not too bad of a drive even if your in Eastern WA.  I try to make it down there three or four times a fall.  LOTS of bears down there!
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Machias on March 21, 2007, 11:58:31 AM
Coon Dog, where do you live?  Wanna get together sometime for a hunt?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Jerome on March 21, 2007, 03:01:17 PM
I am always up for a hunt.  I am on the westside of the state.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bobcat on March 21, 2007, 03:06:20 PM
Hounds are legal for bear in California? Who would've ever thought that was possible. Not legal in Oregon or Washington, but in California? wow...
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Machias on March 22, 2007, 11:16:27 AM
Bobcat--Crazy isn't it!

Coon Dog-  That would be fun, let's try and hook up for a hunt next fall.

The bear season for Idaho Units 10 and 12 are from1 Apr to 30 Jun and then from 30 Aug to 3 Nov.  Tags are $31.75 for non-residents and you can purchase two.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Jerome on March 22, 2007, 02:58:57 PM
Sounds like a plan to me.  Let me know when its getting close.  I would like to run some lions.  You might have to hold on to that bluetick alittle longer. 
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 22, 2007, 03:28:37 PM
Don't be giving him any ideas, I'm still dreaming, and trying to figure out a way to get it past my wife.  Sort of hard to hide a hound in the backyard.  ;)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Machias on March 22, 2007, 03:43:31 PM
I still have to post a photo of him, but here is his dad and the tom he treed on 25 Feb.  The tom was treed in MT.

(http://i13.tinypic.com/2nvut00.jpg)

(http://i7.tinypic.com/48rf1n9.jpg)

(http://i11.tinypic.com/47al2ft.jpg)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Jerome on March 22, 2007, 04:30:53 PM
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v299/wahunter/Picture_29290866.jpg)
Here was my pack two years ago.  To this day i have the one in the very back.  Two died of old age and the other one went of to California.  Been toying with the thought of getting back into it.  I even sold colars.  I kept the dog box and one dog for coon. 
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 22, 2007, 05:49:26 PM
Darn Fred, all I see are rex x's.   Nice lookin hounds Coon.  Do you miss the sound of them on the chase as a group?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Jerome on March 22, 2007, 07:37:49 PM
Oh yeah i miss it, i think once i get everything else lined out that i will rebuild again.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 22, 2007, 07:54:51 PM
Its hard to think about it.  I was just about to make the leap when Washington changed its regs.  That and trapping.  At least they are seeing the light and opening hound hunting back up a bit with the cats, even though its a draw thing.  At least Idaho is close by.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Machias on March 22, 2007, 10:35:44 PM
I'll put them in my album, hopefully you can see them there.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: jackelope on March 23, 2007, 11:24:31 AM
I was talking to a guy in pomeroy a couple weekends ago who's got a couple walkers if i remember correctly. he just runs coons with his dogs anymore, said he will not go to idaho any more for bears or lions because of the wolves. he's got a buddy in idaho who won't run his dogs over there anymore either, already lost one of his hounds to the wolves.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Jerome on March 23, 2007, 07:50:26 PM
I am hearing more and more of that over there.  I also heard that they are toying with the idea of putting out some tags for wolves there.  Dont know if that was a rumor or not.  It makes it tough but when you hound hunt you never know once you dump that tailgate.  We have lost dozens of dogs over the years.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 24, 2007, 09:00:56 AM
There was a big newspaper article about that happening.  A guy lost his whole pack and I think it was in the clearwater.  I'll see if I can find it and get it on here.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 24, 2007, 09:07:34 AM
I just panned up by accident and the pictures were in.  NICE hound, Holy cow.  Very nice pictures.  Now I just need to convince the wife before someone else snatches him up. ::)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: chep on March 24, 2007, 10:22:02 AM
Yeah that is a nice hound. That photo makes me want to get one of those when my brown beast passes on.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 24, 2007, 11:13:19 AM
Hey Chep, I noticed your fox picture in the gallery.  thats sweet.  That was one of my new years resolutions, getting a fox this year, and I did over in Eastern Washington.  Kind of rare critters for this state.  Were you calling, or justt happen by him, what region.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: chep on March 24, 2007, 11:17:38 AM
Yes they do seem rare. That one was just off the road up towards Chinook Pass last spring. I am not sure what calls would bring them in. He\She seemed content to scavenge as it ate some potato chips from the snow bank. I still have not seen a fox since then.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Machias on March 24, 2007, 10:48:23 PM
Fox are an absolute sucker for cottontail rabbit calls.  I grew up in MO calling reds and greys and they are downright easy when it comes to calling.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 27, 2007, 10:05:45 AM
Here is one that was just dieing for a shaft.  My wife wasn't very impressed, but I thought it was cool.  I love springtime bears.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v47/boneaddict/BEAR.bmp)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 27, 2007, 05:21:58 PM
Good pic. Is that this year?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 27, 2007, 07:10:39 PM
Last season.  I saw several while shedding.  They sure are pretty that time of year, and act like me without my first Mt Dew or coffee.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 28, 2007, 08:43:57 PM
The F&G did the drawing today so we should have email notices tomorrow (Thursday).

Good luck!
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bobcat on March 28, 2007, 08:51:59 PM
The F&G did the drawing today so we should have email notices tomorrow (Thursday).

Good luck!

Good! The supsense is killing me.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 29, 2007, 06:25:33 AM
That will save me some key strokes as I keep looking a couple times a day.

GOODLUCK everyone
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bobcat on March 29, 2007, 09:11:26 AM
That will save me some key strokes as I keep looking a couple times a day.

GOODLUCK everyone

Where do you look? Is there somewhere to check the results? Last year there was, but I don't see it this year. You can still check last year's results but I haven't seen where they put up a link to the 2007 drawing. Or are you only talking about checking your email?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: WDFW-SUX on March 29, 2007, 09:16:36 AM
fingers crossed for Copalis :)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: WDFW-SUX on March 29, 2007, 11:23:21 AM
Just called WDFW oly and they messed up on the first draw as some hunters were drawn multiple times so the odds where all messed up LOL so they have to do it over.

I can't figure out why this happens every single year someone needs to be shown the door.  :boxin:
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 29, 2007, 12:16:40 PM
ARGGGGHHHHHHHHH.  Did they give you any time frame? >:(
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bobcat on March 29, 2007, 12:24:13 PM
Oh don't sweat it guys...what's another day or two?  ;)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: WDFW-SUX on March 29, 2007, 12:35:58 PM
WDFW is so lame how many consecutive draws have they muffed at this point?

They said maybe today but we have all heard that before right ;)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bobcat on March 29, 2007, 12:45:28 PM
I really don't care if they don't tell me the results for another 2 weeks, as long as they tell me I was SUCCESSFUL in drawing my spring bear tag. 

If they don't give me a permit, then I agree, the WDFW sucks...     :)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 29, 2007, 03:38:25 PM
The drawing will be held TOMORROW 3/30/07, and we will then be notified by mail and phone according to the gal.  Apparantly they are NOT going to post the results on the website.  This is as of 1530 on 3/29/07. :'(
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: WDFW-SUX on March 29, 2007, 03:41:47 PM
LAZY  *censored*S >:(
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bobcat on March 29, 2007, 03:54:22 PM
The drawing will be held TOMORROW 3/30/07, and we will then be notified by mail and phone according to the gal.  Apparantly they are NOT going to post the results on the website.  This is as of 1530 on 3/29/07. :'(

That's no surprise, really. Not the end of the world either. Thanks for the info. So they said "notified by mail and phone?"  What about email? And when they say phone does that mean they are going to do the calling, or do the applicants need to call in to find out the results? I guess what I'm wondering, is will we have the results tomorrow, if we checked the box that we wanted to be notified by email?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 29, 2007, 05:19:01 PM
Boneaddict has it right.

My buddy called F&G again. At 1pm he called me to say that they probably won't have it done by the end of the day and that notification will be by phone.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bobcat on March 30, 2007, 01:24:32 PM
I drew my spring bear tag!








Just kidding.... has anybody called the DFW and harassed them about the drawing results yet today?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: WDFW-SUX on March 30, 2007, 02:34:23 PM
Just called, the drawing will be today and they will call us this weekend.   I bet they don't call us this weekend. :guns:
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 30, 2007, 04:48:57 PM
They have over 70 pages of numbers, that by the way are not alphabetical or numerical in order, and have started calling, or so they said.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Timber on March 30, 2007, 04:56:51 PM
I just called, and they told me the drawing has not been done, but they will be calling people this weekend. I'm confused!

The season opens in 2 weeks and no one knows if they have drawn yet?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 30, 2007, 05:12:44 PM
It is interesting that people are getting different answers. Why can't they just tell us what the deal is?

My beef is we applied for a couple diff areas and wanted to start scouting this weekend as well as put in for time off of work.

What a cluster!
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: WDFW-SUX on March 30, 2007, 05:46:39 PM
It really sux how they draw everything so late.  Last year August elk hunts had started and they had not even told the the people who drew the tags.  I just dont understand how they can have so many problems time after time..........
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bowpredator on March 30, 2007, 06:03:41 PM
yea, the would do better by just drawing names from a hat.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: BrushChimp on March 30, 2007, 06:19:57 PM
They have so many problems because the WDFW is terrible at getting anything accomplished efficiently.. I got called a little while ago and didn't get drawn. This was just my first year. Maybe next year I'll have better luck.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 30, 2007, 06:48:45 PM
BrushChimp - I read your post, logged off and I had two phone messages.. excited I dialed the voicemail.....damn Dr, and family member.

Did you get a person or computer?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Machias on March 30, 2007, 07:57:09 PM
That's weird I didn't even apply for a spring bear and got drawn??
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bobcat on March 30, 2007, 08:00:27 PM
LOL.....good one Fred.  :)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 31, 2007, 07:16:22 AM
Are you kidding me Fred?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 31, 2007, 07:29:01 AM
That's weird I didn't even apply for a spring bear and got drawn??

LOL.......Would not surprise me.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: BrushChimp on March 31, 2007, 09:03:31 AM
I got a person on the phone, but they just left a message on the answering machine... Hope you guys have better luck than I did.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Machias on March 31, 2007, 09:15:21 AM
Sorry guys I was just messing with you anxious waiters, LOL, But it would never surprise me in Little CA if that really happened.  LOL
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: funkster on March 31, 2007, 09:27:48 AM
I don't even remember giving a phone number..this sucks!!
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 31, 2007, 09:34:17 AM
Dude, that is just plain wrong, April Fools is tomorrow.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: WDFW-SUX on March 31, 2007, 09:37:01 AM
What did everbody put in for? 

I put down one choice

1. Copalis

Anybody??
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 31, 2007, 09:59:16 AM
This is going to sound bad, but I really don't remember.  I usually put in for the blues, and pretty sure thats what I did for my first choice.  Then I noticed the NE washington and bantered that around a bit.  I figured I had a better chance at the blues, but I'm always shedding up there and seeing bear, so I can't remember which one I decided on.  Being the sarcastic negative fellar that I am, I guess I figured I would never draw anyways, and if I did, I would never find out. :puke:
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: WDFW-SUX on March 31, 2007, 10:14:14 AM
I remember having a conversation with the folks at WDFW last year about how late the draw was and how some of the hunts were going to start without the hunters knowing they had tags and there response was and I quote "That's just too bad"  I told the lady that they were all doing a terrible job and should be ashamed at how they were managing the draws and she hung up on me.

I have ZERO faith in the WDFW.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Timber on March 31, 2007, 10:27:12 AM
I just got a call from the WDFW. I drew for Sherman. By the way, I had 4 points.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 31, 2007, 10:48:20 AM
 CONGRATS! :drool:
I expect some kill shots, along with any photos of nice drops you find.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: WDFW-SUX on March 31, 2007, 10:49:36 AM
Good luck hope you wack a good  one. :tup:
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Timber on March 31, 2007, 12:24:41 PM
This the bear I'm going after. I've seen him just about every spring since 2002. I hunt for him every fall but have never been able to find him. This spring tag is just what I needed!

(http://i177.photobucket.com/albums/w207/jontimmer/IMG_1920.jpg)
(http://i177.photobucket.com/albums/w207/jontimmer/DSC00345.jpg)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on March 31, 2007, 12:47:08 PM
Now that is a nice bear! Hope you connect.

My brother and I were both drawn. Him for his first choice and I for my only choice. Still waiting on my wife's and other hunting partner.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on March 31, 2007, 12:49:16 PM
NICE BEAR!

Lucky buggers....still no word.  That can't be a good sign
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Ridgerunner on March 31, 2007, 02:49:13 PM
That is nice looking bear, I expect to see some kill shots here pretty soon.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bobcat on March 31, 2007, 03:16:22 PM
Still no phone calls here. My one and only choice was Capitol Forest, only because with my time being limited this spring, I wanted to stay close to home, otherwise I would've applied for one of the NE units.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Ray on March 31, 2007, 04:10:09 PM
That's weird I didn't even apply for a spring bear and got drawn??
:chuckle:
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on April 01, 2007, 07:28:10 AM
Speaking of Spring bears.  I came back to camp with my girls one spring and found this guy feasting on some blue berry bagels.  My daughter had a nice souvenire as her waterbottle, which at sometime must have had juice in it was perforated with bear teeth.  She got a great kick out of that at show and tell in school.  I bailed out of the truck and ran the bear about 50 yards and treed the bear.  We backed off, and dang if he didn't go back to the bagels.  This picture was after I ran him out of camp.  He went a ways out and sat and watched and waited.  Grandpa and I and the kids were highly entertained, the wife wasn't.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v47/boneaddict/bearflowers.jpg)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Ridgerunner on April 01, 2007, 08:05:04 AM
Another great looking bear, I would love to find a color phase one like that.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Ray on April 01, 2007, 08:31:26 AM
Not only is it a fine looking bear the photo itself is great too.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on April 01, 2007, 08:36:00 AM
Thank you!   Here he is up the tree.  Not a big bear, but sure a pretty one.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v47/boneaddict/beartreed.jpg)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on April 01, 2007, 08:36:44 AM
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v47/boneaddict/bear2.jpg)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Ray on April 01, 2007, 08:39:28 AM
That last one is a true classic photo. Thanks!
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Timber on April 01, 2007, 09:24:00 AM
Great pictures boneaddict! I really like the first one with the yellow flowers.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 01, 2007, 03:24:17 PM
Great photos, and I agree with jtim.

You couldn't have ask for a better setting for that bear to stop and stare.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bobcat on April 01, 2007, 04:24:40 PM
Yes the pic with the yellow flowers is really good.

Apparently the WDFW is not making any phone calls today? I'm guessing I won't be hearing until tomorrow.Hopefully they didn't save all the losers for the last.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on April 01, 2007, 04:27:28 PM
Thanks guys, I wish I could have been just a touch clearer, but no tripod and a little low light. 

I hear you about the WDFW.  I'm hoping the losers weren't called last and the winners first.  I have sure heard from a bunch of folks that have been drawn. 
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 01, 2007, 07:27:32 PM
Isn't there a previous post about someone getting a call and not being drawn? F&G told my partner that they all had lists and none were in any sort of order.

He is still waiting as is my wife.


Edited for typos....at least the ones I found!
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bowhunterty on April 02, 2007, 03:41:51 AM
I was drawn for the Copalis.  Game dept. called me Saturday morning.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bowpredator on April 02, 2007, 05:14:19 PM
Big fat goose egg here on spring bear. Had a call on my machine on fri. Oh well theres always turkey.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on April 02, 2007, 05:16:48 PM
Still no phone calls.  I guess they gave my tag to Macias who didn't apply.  :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 02, 2007, 05:27:51 PM
For those that haven't heard yet, call F&G at 902-2515 and tell them that you haven't gotten a call. You don't need to give them anything other than your name and they will tell you yes or no.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: WDFW-SUX on April 02, 2007, 05:51:14 PM
they told me NO this morning........ :'( I guess its turkey time.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bobcat on April 02, 2007, 05:57:25 PM
Thanks for the phone number this morning Will. I had to give them my WILD ID number and my name. And, of course, as you already know, neither I or my dad drew a permit. Maybe next year.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 02, 2007, 06:14:28 PM
Thanks for the phone number this morning Will. I had to give them my WILD ID number and my name. And, of course, as you already know, neither I or my dad drew a permit. Maybe next year.

Wow... they didn't need any of that from us. I called for my wife and just gave her last name and unit she applied for. My buddy did the same for himself.

And as you already know, she did not get drawn but he did. So three of us were drawn for the same unit. Hopefully we can wack at least one.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: funkster on April 02, 2007, 10:18:18 PM
No spring bear for my crew. Five of us tried and not one got drawn. I called and got the info for all of us with no problems.

A question for all that got drawn,how many points did you all have??
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 03, 2007, 06:41:37 AM
Three of us had 1 point and two were drawn.
One of us had 0 points and was drawn.

So we went 3/4. Probably would have gone 4/4 if we all applied for the same unit. 99% of the time we apply seperately rather then a group. We feel the odds are better that at least someone will get drawn.

FUNK- How many points did you have and did you put in as a group?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: WDFW-SUX on April 03, 2007, 07:19:48 AM
I applied for copalis with 3pts and was not drawn :'( :'(

Those lucky tag holders are going to kill some total hogs this year good luck.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Machias on April 03, 2007, 08:06:25 AM
How many of you guys that drew are going to try calling?  It is VERY effective in the spring.  I have called in 14 bears so far.  Talk about an rush.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 03, 2007, 05:13:16 PM
Machias - Calling is my prefered method of hunting bears. Called in a couple dozen in the last ten or so years. We have killed about half of them.

I am making a couple of new calls this week. And you are right about the rush. The growls, popping teeth and slobber......even the quite ones are a rush.

Wash-Out - do you know anything about the Copalis unit?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: WDFW-SUX on April 03, 2007, 05:39:14 PM
I know there are some really really big ones in there and Im really bummed that I did not draw. This first spring hunt should be a GREAT one.  I have seen some of the photos from the Quinault hunts and they routinely kill  bears that square over 7ft and there are supposed to bear bigger ones in there too.  I think a bio found a paw print that had eight inch pads! Hope you kill a biggin defiantly a chance for a B&C boar.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 03, 2007, 05:50:55 PM
I am totally against the tribal baiting of bears on the Q Rez, but I have no doubt that a state record could come from that area if you found a guide to really put in the time.

I agree that this first spring hunt in this unitshould be a doozy. The only concern is the ongoing hound hunts.

Here is a bear that my brother got in that unit last fall. It scored 18 5/16.

(http://www.hunt101.com/img/433403.jpg)

Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Ghost Hunter on April 03, 2007, 06:05:42 PM
Hello all.  First post for a newby to this sight.  Be interesting to see how many applied for the new units, especially Copalis.  As far as points, only 3 total available, right?  Me and partner drew Kapowsin first year (what a joke), last year nothing.  Wife has drawn Capitol 3 years running, and I'm in with her this year.  2 tags/1 point.  Now, hope to see one.  Planning on hitting it opening weekend.  Good luck to all the tag holders.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: WDFW-SUX on April 03, 2007, 06:06:56 PM
Thats a gorgious bear.   The only thing that worried me about the hunt was if the bears were all over at the bait stations and not in the right area....I doubt it will matter though.  Agree about the state record you never know it might come out of the copalis.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: WDFW-SUX on April 03, 2007, 06:08:38 PM
3pts is a low number people have been applying for eastern units for a long time.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 03, 2007, 06:34:19 PM
The only thing that worried me about the hunt was if the bears were all over at the bait stations and not in the right area....I doubt it will matter though.  

That is also a concern of mine.

Ghost Hunter - You out of Arial, WA?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Ghost Hunter on April 03, 2007, 06:45:43 PM
Figured you would pick up on that right away Billy :brew:  Did you get out scouting this weekend?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 04, 2007, 06:28:46 AM
Yea, but nothing much. Here is a post from last weekend.
http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php?topic=148.0 (http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php?topic=148.0)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: funkster on April 04, 2007, 08:48:56 AM
We all had 0 points so I knew it was gonna be along shot and we all put in seperatly. I was thinking about just going over to Idaho,anybody have any info for bears there?? You said something about the Quinault(sp??) can you give some pro's and con's.

BTW good luck to all that drew a tag. Hope to see some pics soon!!
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on April 04, 2007, 09:00:43 AM
I might be misunderstanding your question so don't take offense, but the Quinalt is in Washington not Idaho.  Just about anywhere in Idaho has lots of bears.  there are a couple permit only units so be careful there.  The panhandle has tons, and much of it is closed to hounds because of the Grizzly action. Clearwater has them but sees more dog action. 
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Machias on April 04, 2007, 09:54:48 AM
I will be hunting the Clearwater.  Yes there are some hounds running over there, but it is so vast, two springs ago I saw only one hound hunter the whole of spring season.  Nice thing is it's a two bear area and the non-resident tags are only $31.75.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on April 04, 2007, 10:16:12 AM
I wish I had my hound stamp, I would bust your party.  I could see "my" new blue tick in action. ;)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Machias on April 04, 2007, 12:56:34 PM
I wasn't drawn for a hound permit, this will be strictly calling, spot and stalk with maybe a little baiting thrown in.  :)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on April 04, 2007, 01:04:53 PM
Sounds fun. Keep an eye on the ground for a moose paddle if the wolves haven't eaten them all yet.  there are getting to be quite a few in the clearwater region.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Machias on April 04, 2007, 02:25:25 PM
When I hunted over there two years ago, the wolves were down on Kelly Creek where the elk were wintering.  We looked for the cats up where the moose were and never seen any signs of the canis lupus kind.  There is a TON of moose in there.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Ray on April 05, 2007, 12:53:26 PM
I am not out for spring bear but I have a good idea where one fellow is hangin' out. I'll be out scouting soon to see if it's in the same vicinity this season. It might make for a nice pot roast.

Let us know how your luck goes.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bowhunterty on April 06, 2007, 01:26:08 AM
Nice bear your brother shot Billy.  My uncle missed one out toward MacAffee Hill.  Never applied for spring bear until this year.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bowhunterty on April 06, 2007, 11:55:10 PM
Got my permit in the mail today.  Looking forward to getting out in the woods and doing some hunting.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 07, 2007, 07:09:40 PM
Went out scouting today. It was nasty, but we did it anyway. We mostly drove the roads in the unit to get familiar, but we took our maps and GPS units. This week I will transfer the tracks and waypoints to the laptop to take with us. We did not see alot of sign, but we did see a little. Not too fresh, but it is still early. We saw 3 other rigs out scouting as well.

Here are a few pics from today.

Bear sign
(http://www.hunt101.com/img/486635.jpg)

Woodpecker
(http://www.hunt101.com/img/486634.jpg)

Blacktail doe
(http://www.hunt101.com/img/486633.jpg)

I took some pics of some cougar tracks, but they were not on the card (?) and some grouse and duck pics as well, but they were blury.

One week until the opener.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bobcat on April 07, 2007, 08:44:38 PM
Nice pictures, that sure is a healthy looking doe.

Too bad the weather wasn't like it was yesterday!  :bash:
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 08, 2007, 06:18:49 AM
She was a healthy one alright. From a distance I thought it was a buck. She also had this one with her.

(http://www.hunt101.com/img/486693.jpg)

The weather really could have been better, but what do ya do. (Friday was almost too hot for me)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: funkster on April 08, 2007, 12:29:14 PM
I have never hunted in Idaho before,can anyone put me in a general area for a starting point??? The Idaho fish and game department gave me alot of info about the season's and the reduced hunts for non residents and even sent me over a copy of there hunting reg's but I have no idea where to start and it is kinda far to go and scout a area. Any help would be great!!

I called about the quinault hunts and it is alittle to much money to travel a 100 miles for a bear when I could just go to Idaho for far much less $$.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 08, 2007, 06:27:58 PM
funkster - pm sent.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on April 10, 2007, 10:41:10 AM
I think the shed hunting blues are over, so bear may just have to wait until next year.  I feel the need for more elk bones.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 10, 2007, 05:15:19 PM
I think the shed hunting blues are over, so bear may just have to wait until next year.  I feel the need for more elk bones.

LOL

Just wish I had an area close enough!
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on April 10, 2007, 06:06:12 PM
How far is that Helens region from you.  I hear there are alot of nice bones down there.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 10, 2007, 06:31:47 PM
The Mt. is almost 100 miles away.

I have found 2 elk sheds ever, but have a big box of deer sheds. Someday I would like to just do it once or twice. (kinda like trying most mushrooms ..lol)
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bobcat on April 10, 2007, 07:03:40 PM
Remember that elk shed I found in Capitol Forest?  :o

I think I showed it to you...

That's a little closer. Not that you'd ever find an elk shed in there if you tried though.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 11, 2007, 05:57:07 AM
Yes Bob, I remember. And I remember where you found it. I almost went in there two weeks ago looking for bear sign.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: bowhunterty on April 11, 2007, 11:50:46 PM
Billy do any more scouting.  May head over this weekend if work permeits.  Still have to get my access permit.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 12, 2007, 06:27:59 AM
No scouting in the area, but I have been studying the map, arial photos and my gps data. I am not sure where we are going to camp, but I do know where I will be opening morning as well as a couple back up spots in the general area.

One thing to be aware of is the hunt is only on Rayonier land withing the Copalis GMU so alot of the peripheral areas are not huntable. So alot of the areas I planned to hunt are off limits, especially along the coast.

Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Ghost Hunter on April 16, 2007, 02:44:16 PM
Just back form Capitol.  Covered a lot af area, hiked a few trails, tried some calling.  No fresh sign, and no luck.  How did everbody else do?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 16, 2007, 04:57:36 PM
Went up the OP and didn't see any bears. I hit a few different spots and called for about 5 hours on Sunday. Called in a couple of coyotes and a bobcat (got pics/will post later) but no bears. Saw lots of hunters driving the roads.

Ghost, I may have a line on a couple bears in the CF. I heard about a big boar and a sow, but I am trying to gather more info to make sure it is not a medium sow with a cub. (you know how people misjudge size) I will let you know more as I get it.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Ghost Hunter on April 17, 2007, 06:06:12 PM
Billy
You know we'll take any help we can get.  Any info would be appreciated. I'd love to get the wife on a chance at a bear, for her first big game animal.  Heck, I wouldn't mind one myself.  It's early in the season.  Hope fuel costs don't go much higher and limit our trips.  Maybe I could bring the chainsaw and recover some costs in firewood.  Appears to be more than normal wind damage?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 17, 2007, 06:53:48 PM
One thing to think about on the CF unit, if you are trying to take 3 day weekends, do Fri, Sat, Sun rather then Sat, Sun, Mon. I find the critters are less spooky before a weekend.

Becareful about cutting firewood. DNR requires a permit (free) but you have to get on a list and then cut in the designated areas. As far as wind damage, it is about normal. When they clearcut they always leave buffers which blow over in the first hard winds.

I will send a pm on the bear.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Ray on April 18, 2007, 11:01:22 PM
Which calls are you having most success with bringing in the bears?
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 19, 2007, 06:40:47 AM
Fawn in distress works best for me, but sometimes the calling gets so crazy that the only way I can describe it is all out chaos.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: Machias on April 19, 2007, 08:57:45 AM
I have two calls I love to use, the circe 3 in 1, love the long and med range calls and I have had a lot of success with a javelina call.  It is loud and coarse which I have found for me to work better then the higher pitched calls.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: boneaddict on April 19, 2007, 10:12:03 AM
In the country down here elk calf or high pitched cow calling works pretty darn good.  just remember they are coming in for red meat.

Up north, deer or fawn calls work well.  If theyare in hearing distance and there isn't a feed bucket in fornt of them, they will come into any meat call.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: billythekidrock on April 19, 2007, 04:48:33 PM
If theyare in hearing distance and there isn't a feed bucket in fornt of them, they will come into any meat call.

Aint that the truth.
I have also had very good luck with a cow/calf calls as well as distress. I have had bears within 20 yards walk up a grade slobbering. Boy do they look confused when they see a human, but hear an elk.
Title: Re: Spring bear..
Post by: huntnfmly on April 26, 2007, 11:17:03 AM
Dont forget to breath.Thought this was funny. Wayne carlton talking about using his mouth calls on the ground.You know you are blowing too hard when your calling in a bear and the next thing you know you wake up missing a leg.
jim
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