Diary of a Wisconsin Bear Guide 7-9-2012
By Mike Foss
Reader Note: Send questions on bear hunting to professional guide Mike Foss to his contact information concluding this column. Send stories and photos for posting on this website to ellis@onwisconsinoutdoors.com.
Baiting early as possible due to the heat. On my first bear bait at 6:30 am and done with baiting by 3:00 pm.
Daytime activity is very slow. I can just visualize those bears over-heating, panting, and trying to find some dark, low area shade to keep cool. They will not move until late afternoon.
Had a visitor this past week, one of the youth hunters that will be hunting this year with Northern Wisconsin Outfitters. 12 year old Jarrett Bolssen from the Green Bay area ventured North with his father, Brian, to spend two days at my place, which will serve as headquarters for 22 bear hunters in a few months. I always welcome hunters to experience the life of a guide in the field before the season starts. The experience gives the hunter a better appreciation of the sweat and hard work necessary to build a successful camp and allows them to help maintain what is soon to be “their” individual bear bait station.
While sneaking through the woods to his bear bait station, Jarrett Bolssen, 12, of Green Bay crosses a log to safety while his Father Brian Bolssen looks on. Jarrett traveled to Northern Wisconsin Outfitters to gain some experience before his hunt starts in September.
Injury from last week’s chain saw mishap is healing faster than expected. Tested my muscles and set a new stand on Thursday; white knuckles all the way. Very excited to move my Attack Cuddeback trail cameras to see what else is coming in. Everywhere I go bear sign is abundant. Hearing lots of nuisance complaints about bears. I think because of this past mild winter we are going to see some very large bears taken during the season.
Next week I have another youth hunter coming up seeking the experience of what it takes to be a professional guide and to hunt bear. Talk then.
Mike Foss
Northern Wisconsin Outfitters
www.northernwisconsinoutfitters.com
715-373-0344