Spring bear hunt NE section

[BigVinn]

So I want to put in for spring bear probably 117 and 111. I want to know are there areas to backpack in set up camp or is this a drive in and set up camp?  I would like to hike in and get away from people but since I have never hunted the area I don’t know if there is a road everywhere you go. We would most likely be going in Mid May. Thanks in advance

[Elkslayer]

I'm not real familiar with Unit 111 but 117 has lots of areas that you can pack in and get away from other hunters.

[BigVinn]

Thanks for the reply.  Unit 121 is also the other unit we are looking at.  Does anyone have any input on that.  Are there lots of roads or lots of room to backpack in.  Thanks for replying to a newbie.  If we get drawn I don't want to waste the tag.

[Jonathan_S]

If I were looking for a backpacking Spring bear location in Washington it definitely would not be in 121 or 117. I would look to the blues

[BigVinn]

If I were looking for a backpacking Spring bear location in Washington it definitely would not be in 121 or 117. I would look to the blues

How come?  To many roads or to many people?

[Jonathan_S]

Terrain and lack of good trail systems in areas that hold good bear numbers in spring. Tons of bears but backpacking in 5 miles only helps you walk through 5 miles of bear country. Meaning bear country starts where you park

[BULLBLASTER]

Terrain and lack of good trail systems in areas that hold good bear numbers in spring. Tons of bears but backpacking in 5 miles only helps you walk through 5 miles of bear country. Meaning bear country starts where you park

Spot on

[huntnnw]

exactly no way I am backpacking in for a bear when you are into them starting at the road

[BigVinn]

Thanks for the replies after looking at the permits available and points we have I think the best odds are the NE. That being said do you guys camp locally and drive the roads until you find a clear cut?  Sorry for the newbie questions I am just trying to be better prepared.

[Jonathan_S]

I think most bears are killed driving in areas that are visible or walking roads in the evening.

Chances are low that you'll draw.  Maybe make a trip either way and see what you're dealing with.  Seems like most people I know who get to the NE do not see the type of terrain they expected.

[dmoua]

Most of 117 consist of gated roads. Basically road hunt on feet all day long.

[hunter399]

I'm just gonna throw this out there .But if your not very committed.Or if you only plan on hunting one weekend ,then I'm gonna say put in for a different unit closer to you.
In 117 on average from harvest reports about ten tags are filled out of the 100 tags given out .So yes your chances are better to draw ,but if your not gonna use the opportunity your not gonna harvest.

Yes 117 has lots of public land ,walk in ,road systems,clear cuts ,steep mountains ,etc.Good luck in the draw!