The Dos and Don’ts of Bear Viewing in Alaska
Alaskan bears are known for their mighty build. Some of them can be around 500 kg. The brown bears have tremendous hunting skills. All of this makes Bear Viewing in Alaska a priceless experience and a memory you will cherish forever and tell stories to your grandchildren.
However, returning from the tour depends on following the instructions carefully. If you’re thinking of “How to Stay Safe While Viewing Bears in Alaska: Top Tips from Experts,” you’re in the right place. , you have arrived at the right place where Mel Erickson will throw light on the dos and don’ts.
Choosing an Experienced Guide/Tour Operator
The grizzlies are sometimes unpredictable. Even though most bears act defensively, they can turn aggressive if provoked. Bears can act aggressively, especially when they detect threats to defend their food sources, little ones, and personal space.
Responsible and reputed guides can keep you safe and make your experience hassle-free. They will:
- Possess proper passes and gear to view bears in their natural habitats
- Employ best practices to safeguard tourists as well as the bears
- Will respond promptly to a dangerous situation
- Possess rigorous training on bear safety
- Provide safety briefings and enforce protocols
Professional tour operators create a controlled environment in which you can view bears that is safe for both parties. Just follow the dos and don’ts properly.
The Dos of the Tour
- Remain at a distance of around 300 yards from the natural bear habitats. This is particularly true for the Katmai region, which has a heavy presence of those majestic beasts.
- During a boat trip to watch bears catch salmon fish from rivers, you must remain at a safe distance of 100 yards.
- If unfortunately the bear charges, stand still at your place or lie down and avoid making eye contact.
- Be extremely alert and always go around in groups.
- Always travel in routes where the escape route is ready and clear. In case of any untoward incident, you can run off easily.
- Watch out for bear trampling signs like overturned logs and footprints.
- Always keep your eyes and ears sharp to listen to the guides’ instructions.
- Always keep small weapons like bear deterrents (spray) in handy to save yourself from a bear attack.
- Setup camps 100 yards away from bear habitats
- While cooking and storing food, use bear-resistant containers.
- Clean the areas properly to wash off the smell so that bears do not get attracted.
- Set up camps away from streams that bear visits in search of food.
The Don’ts during the Trip
- Do not wander off alone in the forested regions.
- Never run, showing your back to the bear. Instead, be patient and keep standing still at the same place in case of a bear attack.
- Do not encroach on the bear space and make them uneasy.
- Never argue with your guide regarding any instructions.
- Do not startle the bears.
- Refrain from making loud noises like clapping and singing in excitement.
- Do not interfere when the bears are feeding, especially the suckling cubs.
- Do not store scented items inside your tent where you are camping and cooking.
Book us now for your next tour which we promise will be amazing provided you listen to the dos and don’ts. Call us at 1-907-398-1744 or email us at gamefish@alaska.net.
Following these guidelines can ensure “Your Ultimate Guide to Bear Viewing in Alaska: An Unforgettable Experience!” Give bears time to acknowledge and move away from you. Don’t disrupt natural behaviors.
