Well, Multiple Use Managers is no longer involved with Tyonek Lodge. A new company called Pacific Coast Resorts & Adventure Tours has taken over. They plan to offer both spring and fall black bear hunts, as well as spring brown bear.
You'll recall that Tyonek residents do not hunt bears very much, focusing instead on moose. This has allowed the bears to thrive, with a recent survey estimating a population density of seven to nine bears per square mile. The bears are taking a toll on the moose calf survival, and the corporation would like to thin them out. With so many bears, Ransom says hunters are virtually guaranteed to take a bruin. In fact, he says any hunter who does not get a chance at a bear will be invited back for free.
The spring black bear hunts will take place from elevated stands over bait. Ranson says they are building about 16 stands from 12 to 14 feet off the ground and large enough to accommodate the hunter and his guide, who will judge trophy quality. Stands will be no more than 40 yards from the bait in order to accommodate both rifle and bowhunters. The bait sites will be located from two to 15 miles from the lodge and will be monitored to put clients over baits frequented by large bears. Guides will drive hunters out to the hunting area over gravel roads, then take them to their stands by ATV, or a short hike. Fall hunts will be spot-and-stalk affairs. The spring season will run May 21 to June 20, coinciding with the king salmon run. The fall bear season will begin in September........(continued)
