Bear Safety for Anglers

It's true that the entire Yukon is bear country. But the chances of encountering a black bear or a grizzly increase when you're near an active fish spawning area, especially a salmon spawning stream. The best thing you can do is plan ahead and try to prevent bear encounters altogether.

Take these general precautions:

In camp

• Don't camp on the shore of a spawning stream.
• Keep a clean camp.
• If you're tenting, store your fish and food away from your tent in sealed plastic bags or plastic containers.
• If you have a vehicle nearby, keep your fish cooler in it.
• Burn your garbage thoroughly or store it in odour-proof containers and pack it out.

When fishing

• Stay alert. Keep an eye out for bears so you can give them plenty of room. Look for bear signs such as tracks, scats, fresh diggings or partly eaten fish.
• Fish with a friend. Generally, bears are less likely to attack groups of people.
• Make noise, especially when your visibility is limited. If a bear hears you coming it will probably leave the area.
• Carry a can of bear spray, just in case.

After fishing

• Gut your fish at the shoreline, not back near camp.
• Put the guts in the water; fast-moving water if possible. Pop the air bladder so the guts will sink.
• Try not to get fish odors on your clothes.
• Wash your hands, knife and cutting board after cleaning the fish.

If you have an encounter

• Stay calm. Encounters rarely result in an attack.
• Cut the line if you're fighting a fish. The splashing may attract the bear.
• If there are other people present, group together.
• Speak calmly but firmly to the bear.
• If the bear is stationary, back away slowly, but DON'T RUN. Leave the area.
• If the bear stays focused on you and keeps coming as you back away, try standing your ground, raising your arms and speaking loudly.

For more information, see What to Do When You Encounter a Bear