General big game rifle season opens this Saturday at sunrise. FWP Bear Management Specialist, Jamie Jonkel  says this has been an especially busy fall for grizzly bear activity in Region 2, measured in reports he has received from archery and bird hunters.  Jonkel notes that he continues to get a number of reports of grizzlies in the Blackfoot and Clearwater drainages and a few from the Rattlesnake Wilderness, the Ninemile area northwest of Missoula and Garnet and Sapphire Mountain Ranges.  Jonkel came up with a check list to go over to be bear aware and stay safe.

•             Always carry bear spray, have it within easy reach and know how to use it.

•             If you are going to be alone in bear country, let someone know your plans.

•             Watch for fresh bear sign.

•             After making a kill, get the carcass out of the area as quickly as possible.

•             When field dressing the carcass, keep your can of bear spray within easy reach.

•             Use special precautions if you must leave and return to a carcass, including   placing the carcass where you can observe it from a distance when you return.

•             Do not attempt to frighten away or haze a bear that is near or feeding on a carcass.

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