I have been hiking, climbing and now paddling in BC for 45 years (OMG!) and most of my encounters have been with BB and only a few GB. So far I have been OK with letting them know I am there- talking and making a bit of noise. Trying to understand bear behaviour and making sure I am not getting between the big one and their food or cubs is the best defence. Only a few times I have gone to looking intimidating (waving paddle etc) and having the spray ready. Never had to use the spray or bear bangers so far. The people I know who have had issues mostly have ended up between bear and food/cubs or had their dog chase and run back to master with the bear on their heels. Bears close to town or certain parks are a bit different, having lost some fear of people and sometimes associating them with food.BC regulars, curious what you guys carry in terms of bear protection on long trips? gun, spray, canisters? Thanks
The problem with "devices" is the assumption that you can get to them in time. The friend mentioned about carries a pistol in the woods but he has it in his backpack. It seems you have to be constantly "on the ready" - which is not the relaxing paddle adventure I seek out.
Frankly I was more scared the time I was backpacking in the Stein Valley having a dude with a shotgun held across his chest come out of the brush right in front of me. He was in the lead of a small group coming out when we were heading up. I think the probability of a gun accident is higher than a bad bear interaction so I will take the risks I am comfortable with.The problem with "devices" is the assumption that you can get to them in time. The friend mentioned about carries a pistol in the woods but he has it in his backpack. It seems you have to be constantly "on the ready" - which is not the relaxing paddle adventure I seek out.
Most importantly only camp in high food season to avoid issues and always store your food properly.