would you have shot this bear

[grizzlyadams]

No, I would not. You did the right thing.

 

X2

[CedarPants]

Good choice for YOU. There are a lot of folks who'd have no problem shooting Momma bear. That's fine! But judging from your first post I think you'd have had a problem. Better to regret not taking the shot, then regret taking it. I personally would have passed as well. My kids are big babies ;-)

Good post.

[50CalJim]

I wouldn't have shot her. I've had plenty of chances to shoot Sows with mature Cubs but I get more enjoyment sitting there watching them play around vs killing her.

[muzbuster]

I would have passed on this one, not that the "cubs" need her for anything, I would rather look for a big boar. I would have took as many pics as I could & looked for another one.

[robescc]

Myself, I would have shot her since the "cubs" are no longer cubs. I would still probably pass on her though because I would want a bore. It all depends on how close to the truck I was and how late in the season it is. There is no shame in your decision. Just remember, there are plenty of bears in the woods.

[hogsniper]

Would definitely pass on this one!   Had this same thing happen a couple days ago!  Sat and watched them until they winded us and went up a tree!   Got a couple pics ill post later!   

[Kowsrule30]

Probably would've shot her and if I had second tag got a "cub".... Better meat....      They aren't cubs that old.... That's @ 40-50lbs of meat... A little more then an average spike buck or yearling doe that a bunch of people shoot every year.... No different than that... It's just a bear with momma.... Just still hanging on.... Like trying to get your 20 year old son to move out...... You want to but you can't!!!  As of now I really would've shot her.... Haven't got out to hunt much and won't be able to as much this year.... (once so far) I was really after a blonde/cinnamon bear this year that I found.... Probabaly not gonna happen.... So if I see momma with year old "cubs".... She is smoked....

[Goldeneye]

I wouldn't have shot her.  There is a reason the mama bear has not run the cubs off yet.  They are probably still learning from her.  It's a personal choice though.  I am not that desparate for meat that I have to shoot the first availiable animal.  If a person relies on hunting to put dinner on the table, that is not cost effective.  It's cheaper to just buy steak at the grocery.  I actually enjoy just being in the woods.  If I shoot something it's a bonus.