Be sure the wind direction is correct and move within range a few hours before dark. Maintain your vigil as long as the law allows. Many times bears will appear with just a few minutes of shooting light left. Areas with plentiful forage may keep a bear interested for several days. Spot and stalk is a favorite technique in many western states.
Results are best where bears are concentrated.
To scout an area, check for grass that appears to have been cut by a lawnmower. Bears often chew grass uniformly, making a swath as they move. The presence of droppings will be a telltale clue that bears and not deer or elk are using the area. Look for tracks along roads, especially along mudholes where imprints are more easily left. Baiting requires fairly constant attention if you try to do it yourself.