Fishing is a super fun and popular way to get outside year round!

Usually, fishing is a sport that takes place in bear country. Since the rivers and streams can be hidden at times in a quiet area in the forest, its important to practice bear safety!

These are a few tips we suggest to ensure a safe and enjoyable day on the river!

1) Always try to go fishing in a group. Make sure you have people with you in case of an emergency.

2) Make noise while fishing. Talk loud and play music. You are in an area that bears love, so be aware of your surroundings.

3) Don’t Spread Out. If you’re in a group or even if it’s just you and your buddy, it’s important to not spread out too much when covering ground. Sometimes a bear can get chased off by people in one spot, only to be forced toward other folks in another spot, leading to a potentially dangerous situation.

4) Have bear spray on you. There is a lot of gear when you are fly fishing, but the most important thing to have on you is bear spray. Do not have it in a bag that is far away, make sure it is either in front of you or on your back side so in a moment's notice you have it ready.

5) Don't smoke fish or store food near your camp. This seems like a no-brainer, but bears love fish (and most people food), the better they can smell it the more likely they'll make an appearance. Either wash them, or store them with your food: in a tree, and preferably at least 100 yards from your tent site.

Keep these in mind next time you go out! Say "Hey Bear" and carry bear spray!