{Tidal Potomac Fly Rodders} Re: SNP - Wildlife and safety

Funny that Andy remarks that he's never seen a bear, because David Hart in his book Fly Fisher's Guide to Virginia says the exact same thing--that he's never seen a bear in many visits to SNP.

Maybe I'm just lucky, but I've seen at least one bear on my last 2 trips to the park (including yesterday, off Skyline Drive as I was driving out).  In my experience, there are a LOT of black bears in SNP.  Perhaps more than usual in recent years.  http://www.breezejmu.org/news/article_f5bf396c-035a-11e1-a738-001a4bcf6878.html 

That said, black bears are not aggressive unless they have been fed by humans or you surprise them or their cubs.  So if you make noise (especially at blind corners), and try not to get so "in the zone" fishing that you're oblivious to the sides of the river.  I really don't think it's necessary to carry bear spray in SNP.  Glacier or Yellowstone, on the other hand....

On Monday, May 4, 2015 at 1:36:26 PM UTC-4, Andy Thomas wrote:

I've been inside the park hiking and fishing on many occasions and never seen a bear.  I know they are there but are clearly scarce and avoid people.  I would guess that bear spray is about the only precautionary measure you need to take in that regard (although I never take any).

 

 

On Saturday, May 2, 2015 at 9:28:12 PM UTC-4, samuel newcomer wrote:

Hello, 

I just went out to SNP for the first time today and claimed the dignity of over 20 brookies on the fiberglass 3wt.  What a blast!!  However, I have seen some stuff on the boards about snakes and other somewhat nefarious creatures out that way. I realized later, being so immersed in fishing a bear could have smacked me upside the head and I don't think I would have noticed. 

 I was curious what precautionary items you folks that fish out that way may take along or recommend taking.  

I appreciate the advice in advance and if you want to head out that way let me know!!!!

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