There's no question they'll renew their crusade. In particular, there is excellent hunting on the Tongass National Forest on Prince of Wales Island, which is covered extensively by logging roads. There is good hunting in all the federal forests, especially the Payette, Salmon, Nez Perce and Clearwater national forests. The Fund for Animals organization admitted this strategy several years ago. Unfortunately, the attempted termination of black bear hunting has nothing to do with biology but is based purely on emotions.
Wildlife biologists believe there are currently about one million bears roaming North America.
Where it is legal, baiting is done primarily by residents who have the luxury of time as well as a knowledge of the country they're hunting. To be successful, a bait hunter must put in many hours, not only watching the bait, but also keeping it replenished until a bear finally discovers it and becomes attracted. Other creatures such as coyotes, ravens and magpies may make off with bait long before a bear gets wind of it. Black bears have superb noses and are said to be capable of smelling a bait from literally miles away. Baits usually are constructed of aromatic substances ranging from meat to honey, molasses, pastries and a variety of commercial concoctions, most of which are carefully guarded by their manufacturers.