Hunting Washington Forum

Big Game Hunting => Bear Hunting => Topic started by: MHWASH on September 12, 2008, 06:45:05 AM

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Title: Quick calling question before I head out.
Post by: MHWASH on September 12, 2008, 06:45:05 AM

 When calling bears, do sows with cubs respond often? If they do how far back do the cubs usually lag behind?

Title: Re: Quick calling question before I head out.
Post by: pjb3 on September 12, 2008, 07:50:44 AM

Good Q
I really would like to know also as my hunting situation could use that info

Title: Re: Quick calling question before I head out.
Post by: tlbradford on September 12, 2008, 09:29:43 AM

I call a lot of open country and will call to distant bears that I spot first.  Almost everytime, a sow will send the cubs up the nearest tree immediately before responding to a call if she is going to come all the way in aggressively.  I have had a sow send the cubs up a tree, come towards me 200-300 yards and then turn around and go back to the cubs and head out the other way. 

On a slow approach I have had them bring their cubs in with them, but they act much more cautious and tentative.

So study the body, remember big in front boar, big in back sow.  Watch to see if they look around or behind them, which can signal another bear is in the area.  Look at the head shape.  Try to be as careful as possible and if you do accidently pull the trigger on a mom with cubs, don't be afraid to notify the game department.

Title: Re: Quick calling question before I head out.
Post by: MHWASH on September 12, 2008, 12:30:45 PM

Thanks for the info. Especially about the boars big in front vs sows big in rear.