Live Wild with Remi Warren: Episode 186 | "Bear Aware in Griz Country" - Detailed Summary

In Episode 186 of "Live Wild with Remi Warren," host Remi Warren delves into the critical topic of bear safety and hunting in grizzly bear (griz) territories. Released on June 5, 2025, this episode serves as both a refresher and an essential guide for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts venturing into bear-heavy regions. Warren combines his extensive personal experiences with practical advice to equip listeners with the knowledge needed to stay safe and successful in bear country.

Introduction to Bear Safety in Hunting

Remi Warren opens the episode by emphasizing the importance of bear awareness, especially as bear populations in the lower 48 states are on the rise, leading to more frequent encounters. He highlights that hunters, due to their deeper ventures into bear habitats, are often at higher risk compared to other recreational users.

"In the lower 48 it definitely seems like bear populations are on the rise and those encounters seem to be more and more common every year." [02:30]

Bear Populations and Geographic Distribution

Warren provides an overview of grizzly bear populations, noting that while Alaska houses approximately 32,000 brown grizzlies, the lower 48 states have around 1,300. Despite their smaller numbers, nearly 60% of fatal bear attacks occur in the lower 48, primarily within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem encompassing Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming.

"I think I read a study that was like the majority of...fatal bear attacks...are in the lower 48." [05:10]

He also mentions the expanding range of grizzlies into areas historically devoid of these bears, increasing the likelihood of human-bear interactions in new regions.

Understanding the Surge in Bear Encounters

Warren explores potential reasons behind the increase in bear-related incidents. He posits that the expanding habitats and the concentration of human activities in these areas contribute significantly. Additionally, he discusses how certain behaviors and recreational activities might inadvertently attract bears or increase the chances of surprising them.

"So when you're talking about grizzly bears... they're just kind of less prepared." [04:50]

Personal Experiences with Bear Encounters

Drawing from his extensive background as a professional guide and hunter, Warren shares personal anecdotes about bear encounters. He recounts a thwarted attack with his hunting crew on Fog Neck Island and multiple instances of being bluff charged by both grizzly and black bears. These stories serve to illustrate the unpredictable nature of bear behavior and the importance of readiness.

"I've been essentially attacked once it was thwarted...with a bunch of guys." [12:45]

Bear Behavior and Reasons for Attacks

Warren categorizes bear attacks into three primary types:

1. Surprise Encounters: Often result from accidentally stumbling upon a bear, triggering the bear's fight or flight instinct.
2. Protective Behavior: Sows defending their cubs or bears protecting their food sources.
3. Predatory Attacks: The rarest and most lethal, where bears actively hunt humans, mistaking them for prey.

He emphasizes understanding these motivations to better anticipate and prevent potential attacks.

"A sow has cubs... protecting their cubs... they know that those cubs can't probably run away fast enough." [27:15]

Precautions and Protection Measures

Warren underscores the necessity of carrying effective bear protection, discussing the pros and cons of bear spray versus firearms. He shares his personal preference for sidearms, citing their reliability and stopping power, while acknowledging dogmatic arguments favoring bear spray for its non-lethal deterrence.

"Whatever you're using, shoot it, practice with it, make sure that it works, and make sure that you're confident with it." [35:50]

Bear Spray vs. Firearms

• Bear Spray: Effective at deterring bears without causing permanent harm. However, its effectiveness can be compromised by wind conditions or improper use.
• Firearms: Provide a tangible means of defense with the ability to deliver multiple rounds. Nonetheless, accurate and timely use requires extensive training and confidence.

Warren advocates for hunters to choose a method they are proficient with and to ensure their chosen protection is accessible and functional at all times.

"I would say a sidearm, a pistol of some sort. I would probably... I carry one of two types of pistols." [29:40]

Food Management and Camp Cleanliness

To prevent bears from being attracted to campsites and game, Warren advises strict food management practices:

• Hang Meat Properly: Utilize tree hangs or electric bear fences to keep meat out of reach.
• Clean Campsites: Avoid leaving any food remnants or scents that might attract bears.
• Separate Cooking and Sleeping Areas: Minimize the chances of bears associating human presence with food sources.

He recounts personal practices, such as using pack liners to contain blood and odors and the importance of moving meat away from kill sites promptly.

"Keeping that clean camp is safe... doing that makes a big difference in your overall approach to the hunt." [52:10]

Awareness and Scanning Techniques

Warren emphasizes the importance of constant vigilance. He recommends:

• Regular Scanning: Use binoculars and headlamps to survey the surroundings continually.
• Listening for Signs: Pay attention to unusual sounds that might indicate bear presence.
• Making Noise When Appropriate: While hunters strive for stealth, being heard can prevent surprise encounters. However, this conflicts with hunting tactics aimed at remaining undetected by game.

"I was getting my light and... it was a hundred yards away... but it's good to, it's good to do that." [45:30]

Training and Practicing with Protection Equipment

Ensuring that bear protection tools are functional and that the user is adept at deploying them is paramount. Warren shares a personal story about a malfunctioning pistol during a hunt, highlighting the potential dangers of relying on faulty equipment.

"And so what happened happened... I'd just again, felt like I was being watched by something... felt underprepared." [38:55]

He advocates for regular practice sessions to familiarize oneself with their protection method, whether it's bear spray or a firearm.

Managing Bear Encounters During Hunting Operations

Warren provides strategies for handling bear encounters during various hunting activities:

• While Calling or Tracking: Maintain a defensible position, utilize lookouts, and ensure that movement towards the kill site is cautious.
• At Kill Sites: Promptly manage the animal to prevent bears from claiming the carcass.
• Packing Out: Make noise and use headlamps to remain visible, reducing the chances of surprising a bear during the return journey.

"When you're packing out, the hunt's over... making noise because that surprise attack is the thing that happens." [60:20]

Product Recommendations and Gear Management

Acknowledging the importance of reliable gear, Warren endorses products from sponsors like Stone Glacier, emphasizing their bear spray holsters and versatile pack designs. He highlights the convenience and safety features of these products, encouraging listeners to equip themselves appropriately.

"I actually, you know, could put a holster on your bino harness or like a bear spray can on your bino harness." [68:15]

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Remi Warren wraps up the episode by reiterating the significance of bear awareness and preparation. He stresses that while bear attacks are relatively rare, the consequences are severe, making it essential for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts to remain educated and equipped.

"Thinking about bear safety and all that stuff is extremely important. We're going to probably encounter them more often than other users of similar areas." [75:00]

He encourages listeners to refresh their knowledge regularly and stay updated on best practices to ensure safe and successful outings in bear country.

Key Takeaways:

1. Bear Populations Are Increasing: With expanding grizzly bear territories, awareness and precautions are more crucial than ever.
2. Understanding Bear Behavior: Recognizing the motivations behind bear attacks can aid in prevention and effective response.
3. Effective Protection: Whether through bear spray or firearms, having a reliable and practiced method of defense is essential.
4. Food and Camp Management: Proper handling and storage of food and game minimize the risk of attracting bears.
5. Continuous Vigilance: Staying alert and actively scanning the environment can prevent surprise encounters.
6. Quality Gear is Vital: Investing in reputable gear and ensuring its functionality enhances safety in bear country.

Remi Warren's comprehensive discussion in this episode serves as an invaluable resource for anyone planning to hunt or recreate in areas inhabited by grizzly bears. His blend of personal experience, practical advice, and candid insights offers listeners the tools needed to "Live Wild" safely and responsibly.