Thank you for reading and taking the time to comment. I appreciate your perspective on the bears of KNWR. According to a widely reported 2000 study, Kodiak brown bears have the smallest home ranges of any brown bears. Subsequently, studies have shown they can range widely. Specifically, studies near Karluk Lake, where I was, show that bears move extensively between different drainages and often time their arrival at a particular stream to exactly coincide with the arrival of the salmon run for that stream. Another more recent study showed great variability between individuals, some ranging widely and some staying in smaller areas. I trusted the information given to me by my Alutiiq guide. But your assertion is also correct.

Secondly, I stand by my hunting cost estimate. For an Outsider to travel to Kodiak, hire a guide, spend 10 or so days in the bush, harvest a bear and have it processed/taxidermied and shipped home can be $40-50k. Of course, a more self sufficient hunter could do it for far less. My source of that information was a local bear hunting guide.

I appreciate you sharing a different perspective and giving readers a broader view of this controversial subject.

Being near these majestic bears is an amazing experience. I’m glad you were able to have that experience.

I hadn’t realized the bears hold salmon against their leg to eat. Takes strong legs and good nails to hold a flapping fish for sure!

No surprise that sow sensed you would LOVE a picture of her coming straight toward you – amazing photograph!