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What should you do if a grizz is stalking you when turkey hunting?

Hunt somewhere else. No way I'd be there lol :)

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Well...............  First thing I'd do is switch shells.  If I hunted in grizzly country I'd have three 000-buck or rifled slugs in my pocket.
Second thing I'd do would be unsnap the retention strap on the large bore handgun on my hip........which I would ALSO have if I hunted grizzly country.  Then I'd take the most direct path out of the area.

I don't live in grizzly country nor have I hunted turkeys in grizzly country, yet.  We do run across an aggressive blackie on occasion.  It's occurred to me at one time or another that..........if needed......if one turkey load to the advancing bear's face at 10 yards didn't discourage it....... the next two down its throat at point blank range probably would.

Quote from: Yoder409 on April 18, 2022, 05:52:04 AM
It's occurred to me at one time or another that..........if needed......if one turkey load to the advancing bear's face at 10 yards didn't discourage it....... the next two down its throat at point blank range probably would.

If we are talking about an actual attack, then this would be the action I would also take,...assuming I had time to react to the charge.  I would wait until the bear was close enough that a shot would blind it.  Further action taken would be based on what the bear's response was to that,...and if I hadn't had a heart attack and passed out by then. 

I'm pretty sure I'll never encounter a grizzly here and I don't actually have a fear for any of the animals here in southern WV but I do have a great respect for them. I do carry a handgun with me EVERYTIME I'm out. You never know when a meth head will get stupid and need put in their place.  I actually have a greater concern for the rouges more so than the critters.

It's getting to be a problem in MT, ID and WY.

I guess I took the OP's question to infer that you were AWARE you were being stalked.  So, the first shot, anyways, would be pretty much a given.  #2 and #3 would, of course, be dependent on different factors.  But it did just occur to me that I hunt with a single shot..............     :help:

If I ever DO venture into grizzly country to hunt turkeys (a friend of mine DOES live and hunt in grizzly country), I'd take one of my other turkey guns.

All that being said.........  In my 40-some years of hunting turkeys......the only two critters that I have found give me the craps are big cats and Homo sapiens in certain settings of illegal activity.

Quote from: Yoder409 on April 18, 2022, 05:52:04 AM
Well...............  First thing I'd do is switch shells.  If I hunted in grizzly country I'd have three 000-buck or rifled slugs in my pocket.
Second thing I'd do would be unsnap the retention strap on the large bore handgun on my hip........which I would ALSO have if I hunted grizzly country.  Then I'd take the most direct path out of the area.

I don't live in grizzly country nor have I hunted turkeys in grizzly country, yet.  We do run across an aggressive blackie on occasion.  It's occurred to me at one time or another that..........if needed......if one turkey load to the advancing bear's face at 10 yards didn't discourage it....... the next two down its throat at point blank range probably would.

that is a crude, redneck comment.I would never shoot a bear.Thumbs down.

Quote from: sswv on April 18, 2022, 09:45:26 AM
I'm pretty sure I'll never encounter a grizzly here and I don't actually have a fear for any of the animals here in southern WV but I do have a great respect for them. I do carry a handgun with me EVERYTIME I'm out. You never know when a meth head will get stupid and need put in their place.  I actually have a greater concern for the rouges more so than the critters.

Thumbs down.

Quote from: High plains drifter on April 18, 2022, 01:05:46 PM

Quote from: Yoder409 on April 18, 2022, 05:52:04 AM
Well...............  First thing I'd do is switch shells.  If I hunted in grizzly country I'd have three 000-buck or rifled slugs in my pocket.
Second thing I'd do would be unsnap the retention strap on the large bore handgun on my hip........which I would ALSO have if I hunted grizzly country.  Then I'd take the most direct path out of the area.

I don't live in grizzly country nor have I hunted turkeys in grizzly country, yet.  We do run across an aggressive blackie on occasion.  It's occurred to me at one time or another that..........if needed......if one turkey load to the advancing bear's face at 10 yards didn't discourage it....... the next two down its throat at point blank range probably would.

that is a crude, redneck comment.I would never shoot a bear.Thumbs down.

Well, then you may want to prepare yourself, if you're actually being stalked.............    ::)

Maybe rub yourself down with Ranch or mayo........depending upon how the bear's condiment preference runs.

Apparently, senses of self-preservation run deeper in some than others.   :TooFunny:

so....Yoder409 and myself were awarded "thumbs down" for our replies.    REALLY???

did we win a new turkey gun each or a case of turkey loads to share?

Quote from: sswv on April 18, 2022, 01:42:16 PM
so....Yoder409 and myself were awarded "thumbs down" for our replies.    REALLY???

did we win a new turkey gun each or a case of turkey loads to share?

I'm pretty well fixed for turkey guns.  But, DANG, the case of loads to share sounds good !!!    :z-winnersmiley:

In the real world........ I think all we get is that you and I have just become "Brothers in the Bear".   :you_rock: :you_rock:

Can ya skin grizz, pilgrim ???    :TooFunny:



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As fun as this is when was the last documented case of a turkey hunter being attacked by a bear?  Betting we're in winning the lottery odds of this being a problem.   :newmascot:

Quote from: joey46 on April 18, 2022, 04:36:43 PM
As fun as this is when was the last documented case of a turkey hunter being attacked by a bear?  Betting we're in winning the lottery odds of this being a problem.   :newmascot:

You're probably right.    :icon_thumright:

However........... My wife's uncle.......an extremely skilled outdoorsman........was seconds away from enacting my plan of "one to the face and two down the throat" on a black bear sow that had him VERY aggressively backed into a greenbrier thicket.

My Mrs and I had a sow and 4 cubs from the previous year (125-ish pounders) at under 50 yards and coming right at us another time.  They were not aggressive, thank goodness !!

If you hunt where there's bears of ANY color............or lions.........you really oughta have a contingency plan. 

Really, you give a thumbs down to 2 people that give you suggestions on defending yourself from a grizzly charge,
what snowflake truck did you fall off of.

I give you 2 thumbs down, 3  :z-dizzy: :z-dizzy: :z-dizzy:'s and a  :anim_25:  if you ever meet up with a  :character0029:

Quote from: High plains drifter on April 18, 2022, 05:13:13 AM
What should you do if a grizz is stalking you when turkey hunting?

Make sure that your a much faster runner than your hunting buddy..... :turkey2:

I'm not sure why anyone would get thumbs down for warding off an attack?

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This is the first real discussion on this site on why you should use TSS instead of lead and other substitutes!  I'm only half way joking, but I would much rather hit a charging griz in the face at 5 yds with a TSS load than any other turkey load, period!  Also it's a given that I would never hunt griz country without a Glock G20 10mm filled with 16 rounds of Buffalo Bore bullets and the shotgun would be dropped for it in a split second if needed, and the shotgun load would never matter.

Reminds me of the scene with John Candy in the Great Outdoors...
Big Bear
Big Bear Chase
Big Bear Chase me


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Quote from: bwhana on April 18, 2022, 07:24:02 PM
This is the first real discussion on this site on why you should use TSS instead of lead and other substitutes!  I'm only half way joking, but I would much rather hit a charging griz in the face at 5 yds with a TSS load than any other turkey load, period!  Also it's a given that I would never hunt griz country without a Glock G20 10mm filled with 16 rounds of Buffalo Bore bullets and the shotgun would be dropped for it in a split second if needed, and the shotgun load would never matter.

LOL !!!   I'm kinda a slacker.  Mine's a G29.    ;D

But, the thought HAS crossed my mind.  A tungsten turkey load would have to suck to get hit with, no matter what you are.  Coarse tungsten shot would have to be BRUTAL.  I'd think BB or #2 tungsten would EASILY penetrate a bear skull at close range and/or drive into the chest cavity vitals.

If I know I'm being stalked I'm climbing a tree and the first chance I get from 15 ft up to shoot it in the top of the head I'm letting loose. At that range it should be nasty.

Quote from: High plains drifter on April 18, 2022, 01:05:46 PM

Quote from: Yoder409 on April 18, 2022, 05:52:04 AM
Well...............  First thing I'd do is switch shells.  If I hunted in grizzly country I'd have three 000-buck or rifled slugs in my pocket.
Second thing I'd do would be unsnap the retention strap on the large bore handgun on my hip........which I would ALSO have if I hunted grizzly country.  Then I'd take the most direct path out of the area.

I don't live in grizzly country nor have I hunted turkeys in grizzly country, yet.  We do run across an aggressive blackie on occasion.  It's occurred to me at one time or another that..........if needed......if one turkey load to the advancing bear's face at 10 yards didn't discourage it....... the next two down its throat at point blank range probably would.

that is a crude, redneck comment.I would never shoot a bear.Thumbs down.





So, let me follow the logic here. You shoot and hang stuffed turkeys on your wall for fun, but you would not shoot a bear to save your life and limb. Ok, got it.

Haven't hunted grizzly country. But after the last 2 encounters with blacks the 45lc is on my chest.

This is a funny read!

I watched a you tube "Oh God" of a guy discussing the attacked he survived. He had a sidearm and near spray. He did not have time to fire/deploy either!

In this situation I believe the shotgun is your best defense, how many commenting have actually shot a bear at feet with a sidearm? Inches? I think most would be better served with the shotgun.

And a thumbs down to me, I don't plan on being a bear turd! I will pull the trigger.

Bear would slip and fall before it gets to me....

Quote from: Old Timer on April 18, 2022, 09:53:42 PMVery educational video
Haven't hunted grizzly country. But after the last 2 encounters with blacks the 45lc is on my chest.

 You tube: Todd Orr story by Jason Matzinger, I think...

Watch it, this ain't some guy from the East running off at the mouth, this a woodsmen in Montana.

Quote from: Marc on April 18, 2022, 10:05:03 PM
Bear would slip and fall before it gets to me....

Slip on WHAT, pray tell ???

:TooFunny:

This is why I believe in the 10mm for this situation.  https://youtu.be/Ng_n6Tr-1vg

Also, this thread strikes a deep nerve with me, as my dad, brother, and I were charged, but not attacked, in Yellowstone when I was a kid and I can still remember every single detail (sights, feelings, smells, and sounds) as if it was 5 seconds ago.  If I had the magic genie 3 wishes, #1 would be for me to be able to shoot the very last griz and make them go extinct.  Just my thing and no need for anyone to argue why that is wrong to you - you automatically lose unless you have been there yourself, and those that have will at least understand, even if they feel differently.

I was turkey hunting on the rocky mountain front. I was calling in a bird, when I noticed a grizzly about 500 years away, walking slowly towards me. Luckily my bronco was very close by. I hightailed it to the rig.I thought he may be coming hard, but he disappeared in the buck brush. He was coming to that call I think.

Probably a smart move on your part.

I've hunted up there for 30 years, and never saw a grizzly. I saw an elk carcass that was recently killed, but I thought it was a cat kill. I saw some blue grouse flush, and then I saw him. Big impressive bear. He must have just come out of hibernation.

I have also hunted in grizzly bear country and they are no joke. There was a steel trash barrel in camp that had three slash cuts near the bottom of the barrel. I though someone had used an axe to make the cuts so water would drain, on closer inspection it was a bear claw mark. I have read that some of the grizzly bear guides carry a shotgun as backup in case of a charging bear. There is no doubt in my mind if i had time I would shoot a charging bear.

Quote from: High plains drifter on April 19, 2022, 11:17:39 AM
I've hunted up there for 30 years, and never saw a grizzly. I saw an elk carcass that was recently killed, but I thought it was a cat kill. I saw some blue grouse flush, and then I saw him. Big impressive bear. He must have just come out of hibernation.

You've hunted the Front for 30 years and never seen a grizzly?   You're from Montana and would never shoot a bear?  I wonder if the shed hunter killed last month would have preferred the option to kill a bear?

I'm not familiar with where turkeys are located on the Rocky Mountain Front.

I can't tell people where this is, but it is a wild place, and there is danger.My wife wanted to drive her Bronco up there but I told her no.She had a fit. She does not know the danger.He's probably still in the area, because  those elk are hanging around.

So before I comment on this post, I have question. A few of you have mentioned carrying 00 Buck or slugs to put in your scattergun if being stalked.
Assuming you had enough time to do so, how does 00 Buck or a slug do when passing through today's tight constriction turkey chokes? Would they blow up the choke and/or barrel? Would they shoot fine? Have any of you guys tried shooting them through a tight turkey choke? I haven't, that's why I'm asking.

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I'm going to hunt SD and Wyoming in a few weeks. I've always been concerned about hunting in grizzly country. I think I'll be toting my .44 mag just in case. If I'm being attacked, I'm shooting. I don't care what anyone says, if I go down, I'm going down fighting!!! I'm much too handsome to be mauled by a grizzle bear!!

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If one gets ya will do a Revenant Part II thread on this forum.  It will be classic.  Maybe add a thumbs up/thumbs down poll. :anim_25:

Quote from: High plains drifter on April 18, 2022, 05:13:13 AM
What should you do if a grizz is stalking you when turkey hunting?

Instances of being 'stalked' by a grizz are rare. Being attacked because of an unexpected encounter by both parties, much more the norm. In these instances, the best defense is bear spray by somebody familiar with how to use it. I know that gets some people's eyes rolling, but it's the truth.

You are much more likely to be purposefully stalked by mountain lions. And as a matter of fact... I had 2 mountain lions 20 yards away from me yesterday morning when I was turkey hunting. I hadn't seen them come in, but now we were staring at each other. When one crouched down and started slow crawling to me I popped up, stood to the side of the tree to show what I was (while bringing the gun to shoulder), and it took them about 1 second to process the situation before they bolted out of there.

I know it's probably more than what you wanted to know, but there is a good book on the subject:  Bear Attacks: Their Causes and Avoidance by Stephen Herroro.  My old Forest Service supervisor was Fish & Wildlife Service in Alaska for years and trained workers on bear defense. Again, a firearm has it's place in certain situations, but bear spay is the best to safely repel a surprise encounter.

Almost anytime I'm in the field here in Idaho, I carry bear spray first. And in many other times when I'm hiking/scouting/whatever and I have the room, I pack bear spray AND a large caliber revolver.

It doesn't matter if you're from out East, or a lifelong resident in ID/MT/WY, but some folks hold back on enjoying all this area has to offer because of the fear of large predators. And I'm not saying there isn't reason to be concerned. But if you're reading this and fear of bears/cats/wolves are holding you back from a trip out here; do some research (and I don't mean just 10mm vs .44RM) and hopefully it will put your mind a little more at ease.

Oh, and by the way... I shot a nice tom from that very spot about 1 hour after the run-in with the mountain lions.

Quote from: RutnNStrutn on April 19, 2022, 06:30:45 PM
I'm going to hunt SD and Wyoming in a few weeks. I've always been concerned about hunting in grizzly country. I think I'll be toting my .44 mag just in case. If I'm being attacked, I'm shooting. I don't care what anyone says, if I go down, I'm going down fighting!!! I'm much too handsome to be mauled by a grizzle bear!!

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If thats what your counting on I hope your better looking in person than whats depicted on your avatar.

Quote from: crow on April 19, 2022, 07:16:16 PM
I hope your better looking in person than whats depicted on your avatar.

You're not a very good comedian. Don't quit your day job!!

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I think we need some OLD GOBBLER Grizzly Bear repellent ... :TooFunny:

Bust a cap in that bear.

Quote from: RutnNStrutn on April 19, 2022, 07:35:21 PM

Quote from: crow on April 19, 2022, 07:16:16 PM
I hope your better looking in person than whats depicted on your avatar.

You're not a very good comedian. Don't quit your day job!!

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:happy0167:,   :TooFunny:

Quote from: RutnNStrutn on April 19, 2022, 06:25:18 PM
So before I comment on this post, I have question. A few of you have mentioned carrying 00 Buck or slugs to put in your scattergun if being stalked.
Assuming you had enough time to do so, how does 00 Buck or a slug do when passing through today's tight constriction turkey chokes? Would they blow up the choke and/or barrel? Would they shoot fine? Have any of you guys tried shooting them through a tight turkey choke? I haven't, that's why I'm asking.

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Anyone care to answer?

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Quote from: RutnNStrutn on April 19, 2022, 11:17:05 PM

Quote from: RutnNStrutn on April 19, 2022, 06:25:18 PM
So before I comment on this post, I have question. A few of you have mentioned carrying 00 Buck or slugs to put in your scattergun if being stalked.
Assuming you had enough time to do so, how does 00 Buck or a slug do when passing through today's tight constriction turkey chokes? Would they blow up the choke and/or barrel? Would they shoot fine? Have any of you guys tried shooting them through a tight turkey choke? I haven't, that's why I'm asking.

Anyone care to answer?

I have not tried it.  But, I'd not hesitate for an instant if it was a matter of shooting a slug through a turkey choke or get my butt mauled.

Most manufacturers of turkey tubes STRONGLY advise against it and some state that the warranty will be voided if you do.  I can't see how the tube would NOT be damaged if a person made a habit of shooting slugs.  But, I don't think one is going to outright destroy anything.   Lead IS soft and WILL swage down.  I'd be FAR more hesitant to shoot steel shot through a turkey tube than a slug.  Buckshot probably wouldn't pattern for crap..........but I don't think it'd be problematic for the choke tube at all.

Quote from: Yoder409 on April 20, 2022, 07:10:49 AM
I have not tried it.  But, I'd not hesitate for an instant if it was a matter of shooting a slug through a turkey choke or get my butt mauled.

Most manufacturers of turkey tubes STRONGLY advise against it and some state that the warranty will be voided if you do.  I can't see how the tube would NOT be damaged if a person made a habit of shooting slugs.  But, I don't think one is going to outright destroy anything.   Lead IS soft and WILL swage down.  I'd be FAR more hesitant to shoot steel shot through a turkey tube than a slug.  Buckshot probably wouldn't pattern for crap..........but I don't think it'd be problematic for the choke tube at all.

Agreed!!

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If you don't mind wasting a shell disassemble a factory slug load and see if the lead drops through a full turkey choke.  I really don't recall if most Foster style slugs have a plastic wad.  If the choice was ruining a choke or getting roughed up by a bear I would go for the ruined choke. 
I have a box of American Tactical .410 1/4oz 2 1/2" slugs I used with an Improved Cyl choke to sight in a red dot.  It has a clear shell casing.  The lead obviously does not appear to have a wad.   If my 301 goes to WY I'll carry a couple just in case.  The shell's manufacturer gives warnings about damascus barrels but I find nothing on the box regarding choke size. 
Yes - I know a bear would probably laugh at a 410 slug.  When Florida turkey season ends on the 24th we'll probably run some cameras and I may get to try a test slug on a hog.  We'll see.

I treed two small cubs a while back on a turkey hunt. It was quiet concerning. No less the 40 yards Mama stood up to grab a whiff of me. I think I was lucky the wind was right. I slowly back peddled out of there. You talk about the pucker factor!
I'll have a side arm and I'm leaving to 20 home. I'll bring the Ol' 835 withe the 3-1/2" mags w/#4's  second rounds, if lucky enough to get off will be the 00.

Quote from: RutnNStrutn on April 19, 2022, 06:30:45 PM
I'm going to hunt SD and Wyoming in a few weeks. I've always been concerned about hunting in grizzly country. I think I'll be toting my .44 mag just in case. If I'm being attacked, I'm shooting. I don't care what anyone says, if I go down, I'm going down fighting!!! I'm much too handsome to be mauled by a grizzle bear!!

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No where in South Dakota has grizzlies, Northeast Wyoming (I'm assuming Black Hills) is likewise not grizzly country. I've been alot further west in Wyoming that was also not grizzly country. Grizzlies live closer to Yellowstone.

Quote from: budtripp on April 21, 2022, 12:19:20 AM

Quote from: RutnNStrutn on April 19, 2022, 06:30:45 PM
I'm going to hunt SD and Wyoming in a few weeks. I've always been concerned about hunting in grizzly country. I think I'll be toting my .44 mag just in case. If I'm being attacked, I'm shooting. I don't care what anyone says, if I go down, I'm going down fighting!!! I'm much too handsome to be mauled by a grizzle bear!!

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No where in South Dakota has grizzlies, Northeast Wyoming (I'm assuming Black Hills) is likewise not grizzly country. I've been alot further west in Wyoming that was also not grizzly country. Grizzlies live closer to Yellowstone.

That's good to hear!!

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TSS T shot!


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Quote from: Dtrkyman on April 21, 2022, 06:58:42 PM
TSS T shot!

OUCH !!!!!

Wanna even try to imagine 60 or so 20 caliber tungsten balls hitting something ???      :z-dizzy:

Used to bow hunt elk in SW colorado.one mourning sitting on the edge of a small opening I hear something rustling in the tall grass coming my way. As the sound got closer I could see nothing. Finally a cub steps out at about 20 yds and let's out a bawl. I finally looked back at around 100 yds as I was flying down hill. I say flying because I swear my feet weren't touching the ground. Luckily no momma bears were in chase.

Elk hunting the same area had a big Black traversing the ridge below me when he turned to come up the trail I was standing on. At about seventy yards I stepped out from behind a tree to let him know I was there. What happened next was way different than what I expected. Instead of running away the bear looked at me, turned his head to look behind himself and looked back at me and stepped forward. I said hey bear. He stopped and looked behind himself again and than back at me. At this point I unsheathed my knife, dropped my bow, and was standing there arrow in one hand, knife in the other saying c'mon bear in a firm voice as I started to back up. Probably some vulgarity thrown in there for good measure. He got to about 50yds before finally stopping looking behind himself again and finally turning down hill and sauntering away!

I guess I was between him and some where he really wanted to be. I'm glad I could convince him otherwise. Not sure it would have been much of a fight but I was going to do my darndest to draw some blood if he wanted to rumble!

Blackies are no joke.

The old adage of "They're more afraid of you than you are of them" does NOT always hold true.

I've been in a position twice where a black bear was NOT about to give any ground.  Once cubs were involved.  The other time, not.

Quote from: Yoder409 on April 22, 2022, 03:22:03 PM
Blackies are no joke.

The old adage of "They're more afraid of you than you are of them" does NOT always hold true.

I've been in a position twice where a black bear was NOT about to give any ground.  Once cubs were involved.  The other time, not.

We got one that visits the cabin my dad lives in to raid his bird feeders. Remnants of the feeders are usually what's left after pops forgets to bring them in.
Only seen once by my cousin over 4th of july weekend. She got him on phone vid leaving the yard at 5am. She was coming into the cabin to take a leak and spotted him. He's a biggun! We were up past midnight sitting around the campfire. He had no problems sneaking in after everything quieted down. Raided the feeder only 15 yds from a tent camper with a family of 5 sleeping inside.

When it all comes down to it, we all seem to fear the things we are not personally familiar with.  Being familiar with the inhabitants of the country I live in, which has lions and bears and other assorted lesser predators and potential threats like poisonous reptiles, I never carry a firearm when doing anything other than actively hunting.  I have had enough run-ins with all of them to come to realize they are all more afraid of me than I am of them.  The best defense initially when dealing with any of them is to do whatever it takes to make them realize that they are dealing with a human being.  Once they realize that, they are much more likely to run the other way than they are to do anything else. 

On the other hand, I am not familiar with hunting country that has alligators, pythons, cottonmouths, copperheads, and such.  My romanticized vision of hunting those areas is that I am risking death with every step I take at the "hands" of a hungry gator or twenty-foot python, or a poisonous reptile bent on chasing me down. 

Again, we fear what we do not know.  I know my chances of being attacked by a lion or bear around here (although we do not have grizzlies here) is akin to being struck by lightning on a cloudless day.  Then again, I hope I do not live to regret that attitude!   :angel9: ;D

I know there is a big gobbler on that crick, but that grizz may have killed him. He killed an elk 2 days ago. I think I'll hunt down lower.

Doubtful that gobbler is in much danger from that grizzly, but you, on the other hand can't fly or run nearly as fast.....

Quote from: joey46 on April 18, 2022, 04:36:43 PM
As fun as this is when was the last documented case of a turkey hunter being attacked by a bear?  Betting we're in winning the lottery odds of this being a problem.   :newmascot:

In Montana,  it can happen.

Quote from: Yoder409 on April 18, 2022, 05:52:04 AM
Well...............  First thing I'd do is switch shells.  If I hunted in grizzly country I'd have three 000-buck or rifled slugs in my pocket.
Second thing I'd do would be unsnap the retention strap on the large bore handgun on my hip........which I would ALSO have if I hunted grizzly country.  Then I'd take the most direct path out of the area.

I don't live in grizzly country nor have I hunted turkeys in grizzly country, yet.  We do run across an aggressive blackie on occasion.  It's occurred to me at one time or another that..........if needed......if one turkey load to the advancing bear's face at 10 yards didn't discourage it....... the next two down its throat at point blank range probably would.

Thumbs down. I would never shoot a bear. I did see yhat bear yesterday when I was looking for mushrooms. I also saw that large gobbler.God he's huge!! 30 pounder, or close. I don't care if that bear kills me, I have to try for that bird.

Quote from: High plains drifter on April 28, 2022, 10:48:24 AM

Quote from: Yoder409 on April 18, 2022, 05:52:04 AM
Well...............  First thing I'd do is switch shells.  If I hunted in grizzly country I'd have three 000-buck or rifled slugs in my pocket.
Second thing I'd do would be unsnap the retention strap on the large bore handgun on my hip........which I would ALSO have if I hunted grizzly country.  Then I'd take the most direct path out of the area.

I don't live in grizzly country nor have I hunted turkeys in grizzly country, yet.  We do run across an aggressive blackie on occasion.  It's occurred to me at one time or another that..........if needed......if one turkey load to the advancing bear's face at 10 yards didn't discourage it....... the next two down its throat at point blank range probably would.

Thumbs down. I would never shoot a bear. I did see yhat bear yesterday when I was looking for mushrooms. I also saw that large gobbler.God he's huge!! 30 pounder, or close. I don't care if that bear kills me, I have to try for that bird.

Well I suppose Timothy Treadwell didn`t care either. Look at his no pun intended grizzly ending. Your making no sense.

I can't bear :) to watch this any longer.  Anyone that knows anything about the Front knows the place is loaded with grizzly so the idea that it's a surprise after "30 years" is hard for me to believe.  In addition, the Front has no turkey population that I'm aware of (no I'm not asking where) and none that FWP indicates unless you're reference to the Front is a whole lot different than anyone that I know.  If it does have a mysterious undocumented population of turkeys, that's fantastic, but the simple fact of claiming a 30 lb bird on the Front leads me to believe there is more fairy tales here than I can stomach.  If he's 30 lbs in that region, he's got his head in a bucket of corn.

The "I'd never shoot a bear" comment indicates one of two things, one is you really have no concept of what they are capable of or two..... they hold a spiritual/cultural meaning. 

If it's the second, your comments make a little more sense, and maybe there is a small number of birds there.

Go ahead, give me a thumbs down, but your posts aren't adding up and the majority of folks here aren't familiar enough with the region to recognize it.

Thumbs down to the OP and this moronic thread.

I was a horseshoer for close to 40 years and I can smell horse patooty without stepping in it,


I'm with Old Timer Hobbes and Jimspur

Quote from: High plains drifter on April 28, 2022, 10:48:24 AM

Quote from: Yoder409 on April 18, 2022, 05:52:04 AM
Well...............  First thing I'd do is switch shells.  If I hunted in grizzly country I'd have three 000-buck or rifled slugs in my pocket.
Second thing I'd do would be unsnap the retention strap on the large bore handgun on my hip........which I would ALSO have if I hunted grizzly country.  Then I'd take the most direct path out of the area.

I don't live in grizzly country nor have I hunted turkeys in grizzly country, yet.  We do run across an aggressive blackie on occasion.  It's occurred to me at one time or another that..........if needed......if one turkey load to the advancing bear's face at 10 yards didn't discourage it....... the next two down its throat at point blank range probably would.

Thumbs down. I would never shoot a bear. I did see yhat bear yesterday when I was looking for mushrooms. I also saw that large gobbler.God he's huge!! 30 pounder, or close. I don't care if that bear kills me, I have to try for that bird.

WOW !!!!   I think I may be an OG record holder !!!!   I got TWO "thumbs downs" for the same post !!!    :z-winnersmiley:

Now........... I've never run across anyone who likes to shoot a turkey any more than me.  Until now.   
I'm pretty sure if came down to two choices...........me not shooting a turkey or me getting et up buy a grizz trying..........umma probably not gonna shoot a turkey.

P.S.   No turkeys were harmed in the shooting of this bear.    :TooFunny:

(https://live.staticflickr.com/4205/35009775753_e384410074.jpg)

There are turkeys in the foot hills of the rocky mountain front.Not a lot, but there are some.

Quote from: Hobbes
Go ahead, give me a thumbs down, but your posts aren't adding up and the majority of folks here aren't familiar enough with the region to recognize it.
/quote]


I'm not familiar with the area but things started adding up  for me when he mentioned wild mu-shroom hunting, if you know what I mean.  :z-dizzy:

This topic was so much fun let's do one on being attacked by wolves.  It might discourage some cyber hunters from heading west if they think they will be no more than bear and wolf feed.

Coincidentally there is an excellent article in this months American Hunter (NRA) magazine written by a guy that took a griz with a .50 caliber percussion muzzleloader.  I thought his grizzly load was a little light but it did the job.   

Quote from: joey46 on April 29, 2022, 02:48:49 AM
This topic was so much fun let's do one on being attacked by wolves.  It might discourage some cyber hunters from heading west if they think they will be no more than bear and wolf feed.

Coincidentally there is an excellent article in this months American Hunter (NRA) magazine written by a guy that took a griz with a .50 caliber percussion muuzzleloader.  I thought his grizzly load was a little light but it did the job.

In my opinion,  big game hunters are limp noodles. Bird hunters are superior in every way.And to all the people who think this post is bs, go on up there, you may not come back.

Quote from: Jimspur on April 28, 2022, 11:47:13 AM
Thumbs down to the OP and this moronic thread.

Agreed, but it's actually kind of funny. This guy's ethical viewpoint is what's bothering people, he's like a PETA/Greenpeace nut when it comes to bears and big game, but turkeys he happily and willfully shoots in the head. It's an unusual delineation. I'd have him know btw that in my state turkeys are classified as big game.

.And to all the people who think this post is bs, go on up there, you may not come back.
[/quote]




This would apply to using the interstate highway to get to your hunting grounds in pretty much any Eastern state.

also running into meth labs on state forest lands, skinny dipping in any blackwater bayou, bumping into  active still sites in Tn., the Amish mafia anywhere in Pa. and pretty much any holler in Ky. that is full of Haints.

just ask Amos Moses, he came back with just one arm after a hunting trip

I'm still most concerned with wolves. :drool:

I think your name should be High plains troller.

Wouldn't you be surprised when a grizzly appears,instead of a turkey? So you book it on out of there fast. This is on private property.

The only problem I see is how many trips it would take to pack him
out in my turkey vest.  ;)

 He'd be packing you out in his stomach.

Quote from: High plains drifter on April 30, 2022, 01:30:20 PM
He'd be packing you out in his stomach.

My money's on Jim..............or anyone else that's contributed to this  :TrainWreck1: of a discussion.  Because, I believe YOU are the only one who'd voluntarily end up as a bear turd.  The REST of us would shoot the dumb thing or die trying.    :icon_thumright: :icon_thumright:

Quote from: High plains drifter on April 18, 2022, 11:26:51 PM
I was turkey hunting on the rocky mountain front. I was calling in a bird, when I noticed a grizzly about 500 years away, walking slowly towards me. Luckily my bronco was very close by. I hightailed it to the rig.I thought he may be coming hard, but he disappeared in the buck brush. He was coming to that call I think.

Thumbs down for spelling error

It just keeps getting better.  I'm going out on a limb and giving this crazy thread a thumbs up :toothy12:

Quote from: Zobo on April 30, 2022, 10:05:00 PM
It just keeps getting better.  I'm going out on a limb and giving this crazy thread a thumbs up :toothy12:

I'm giving your thumbs up two thumbs up.     :icon_thumright: :icon_thumright:

The 3 previous posts gave me a good laugh.

I Realize a bear encounter is very rare, but in Montana it can happen. I will hunt turkey in this area pretty soon because he has killed all the elk, and moved up higher on the mountain. This gobbler is the Biggest bird I've ever seen.He's smart, and lives near a beaver dam.The thing is, this bear enjoys the beaver dam as well.

The dingoes ate my baaby

 :TooFunny: :TooFunny: :TooFunny:   :character0029:  This entire thread is a HOOT!  I haven't laughed this hard in a while!  Don't nobody stop now!   :newmascot: 

Quote from: High plains drifter on May 02, 2022, 12:20:08 PM
I Realize a bear encounter is very rare, but in Montana it can happen. I will hunt turkey in this area pretty soon because he has killed all the elk, and moved up higher on the mountain. This gobbler is the Biggest bird I've ever seen.He's smart, and lives near a beaver dam.The thing is, this bear enjoys the beaver dam as well.

How about taking some pictures and posting them so we can come along on your adventure

I'm really, REALLY curious about a grizzly that has "killed all the elk".   Must be awfully fast AND awfully hungry.    ::)
If the elk are all gone...........maybe Super Grizz had some help from the wolves.  OR, the elk moved higher, too.

Hopefully Super Grizz doesn't look down from up there and catch you chasing that big turkey around his beaver dam and get mad...........    :help: 

Quote from: Yoder409 on May 03, 2022, 11:35:07 AM
I'm really, REALLY curious about a grizzly that has "killed all the elk".   Must be awfully fast AND awfully hungry.    ::)
If the elk are all gone...........maybe Super Grizz had some help from the wolves.  OR, the elk moved higher, too.

Hopefully Super Grizz doesn't look down from up there and catch you chasing that big turkey around his beaver dam and get mad...........    :help:

LOL. I haven't seen him for 2 weeks, but something killed an elk up there a few days ago. 2 hens have moved into yhe area, and a wolverine.

Quote from: High plains drifter on May 03, 2022, 08:53:26 PM

Quote from: Yoder409 on May 03, 2022, 11:35:07 AM
I'm really, REALLY curious about a grizzly that has "killed all the elk".   Must be awfully fast AND awfully hungry.    ::)
If the elk are all gone...........maybe Super Grizz had some help from the wolves.  OR, the elk moved higher, too.

Hopefully Super Grizz doesn't look down from up there and catch you chasing that big turkey around his beaver dam and get mad...........    :help:

LOL. I haven't seen him for 2 weeks, but something killed an elk up there a few days ago. 2 hens have moved into yhe area, and a wolverine.

I don't think It was the hens, but maybe. Probably the wolverine.  :camohat:

Quote from: Zobo on May 03, 2022, 09:41:48 PM
I don't think It was the hens, but maybe. Probably the wolverine.  :camohat:

You don't KNOW that.

Hens can wreak havoc with the elk herd.   

Lol. The elk have moved on.That wolverine may have killed that big gobbler. I'm going up the crick in a few days on my horse, to have a look see.I hope that grizzly is gone. I think a pack of jakes has moved in.

carry the Glock

Is this thread still going?

Sent from my moto z4 using Tapatalk

Quote from: RutnNStrutn on May 04, 2022, 01:38:55 PM
Is this thread still going?

:TooFunny: Now that wolverines have been introduced into the picture, I suspect we will go on for a few more pages....  :D
Hmmm,...do wolverines get a thumbs up or a thumbs down?...  ;D

I hope it keeps going. My chest is aching from laughing so much! Stay tuned it might get a little western!
:z-guntootsmiley:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220504/5126f7e66143d683ee8827afa20ee4eb.jpg)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Quote from: ragin-cajun on May 04, 2022, 01:37:53 PM
carry the Glock

No, no, no, HAIL NO !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!     :character0029:

We get EATEN by grizz before we SHOOT grizz !!!!!!!!!!!     :z-dizzy:

Now......... I'm not sure yet what we do with wolverines...........   ??? ???      They MAY be Glock fodder.  But don't quote me.

Here's how you handle Grizz.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220504/ef11779e9dc6654506ae764c529e026c.gif)

Sent from my SM-S901U using Tapatalk

Yeeeeeeeeeeee-OWWWWWWWWW !!!       :z-dizzy:

Right in the Jimmies !!!!!!!    :help:

Thumbs down for hitting below the belt.
May wanna check.  That COULD be equivalent to shooting the poor, defenseless (1000 lb) bear.

Wolverines,

Avenge me boys, Avenge me

I finally got a thumbs down! My life is complete now.

Sent from my SM-S901U using Tapatalk

Quote from: Happy on May 05, 2022, 06:23:05 AM
I finally got a thumbs down! My life is complete now.

Don't go gettin' all high on yourself.............     ::)

You got a thumbs down from ME.  I'm not the authority on thumbs down.  So, technically, you only sorta, kinda got a HALF a thumbs down.  You gotta try harder to get the real thing FROM the real thing.

Now................. Let's go shoot some wolverines !!!    :z-guntootsmiley:

Quote from: High plains drifter on May 04, 2022, 11:50:22 AM
Lol. The elk have moved on.That wolverine may have killed that big gobbler. I'm going up the crick in a few days on my horse, to have a look see.I hope that grizzly is gone. I think a pack of jakes has moved in.

Now that you're sensing jakes in the area I can assure you the grizzly is gone. Nobody and nothing messes with a pack of jakes.

Quote from: Zobo on May 05, 2022, 01:59:29 PM

Quote from: High plains drifter on May 04, 2022, 11:50:22 AM
Lol. The elk have moved on.That wolverine may have killed that big gobbler. I'm going up the crick in a few days on my horse, to have a look see.I hope that grizzly is gone. I think a pack of jakes has moved in.

Now that you're sensing jakes in the area I can assure you the grizzly is gone. Nobody and nothing messes with a pack of jakes.

The jakes may have killed all the elk off, too...........    :begging:

Quote from: RutnNStrutn on May 04, 2022, 01:38:55 PM
Is this thread still going?

Sent from my moto z4 using Tapatalk

Amazing.  Been without internet for a few days.  Having breakfast tomorrow with a 4th generation Montanan now living in Wyoming.  I'll ask his opinion on bear concerns while turkey hunting.   No griz in this area but occasional blacks.

Quote from: joey46 on May 06, 2022, 01:41:09 AM

Quote from: RutnNStrutn on May 04, 2022, 01:38:55 PM
Is this thread still going?

Sent from my moto z4 using Tapatalk

Amazing.  Been without internet for a few days.  Having breakfast tomorrow with a 4th generation Montanan now living in Wyoming.  I'll ask his opinion on bear concerns while turkey hunting.   No griz in this area but occasional blacks.

What about wolverines and jake flocks ???     :help:

Quote from: Yoder409 on May 06, 2022, 06:46:00 AM

Quote from: joey46 on May 06, 2022, 01:41:09 AM

Quote from: RutnNStrutn on May 04, 2022, 01:38:55 PM
Is this thread still going?

Sent from my moto z4 using Tapatalk

Amazing.  Been without internet for a few days.  Having breakfast tomorrow with a 4th generation Montanan now living in Wyoming.  I'll ask his opinion on bear concerns while turkey hunting.   No griz in this area but occasional blacks.

What about wolverines and jake flocks ???     :help:

AND, let's us not forget about the those two hens and the implications of what THEY'RE capable of. I don't believe their role in this can be overstated. Together, we can and will get to the bottom of this.

After all of the points of discussion made here, I have come up with the perfect strategy for turkey hunting in grizz territory.  What you should do is just sit and watch the grizz until he catches a gobbler, then just move in and take it away from him!  Simple solution!  (Sometimes I just amaze myself with the clarity I have in these complex discussions!)   ;D :angel9:

Quote from: GobbleNut on May 06, 2022, 08:09:30 AM
After all of the points of discussion made here, I have come up with the perfect strategy for turkey hunting in grizz territory.  What you should do is just sit and watch the grizz until he catches a gobbler, then just move in and take it away from him!  Simple solution!  (Sometimes I just amaze myself with the clarity I have in these complex discussions!)   ;D :angel9:

YOUR mom raised SMART kids instead of good lookin' ones !!!    :icon_thumright: :icon_thumright:

That's the best idea I've heard since............ 9:00

:TooFunny:

Quote from: GobbleNut on May 06, 2022, 08:09:30 AM
After all of the points of discussion made here, I have come up with the perfect strategy for turkey hunting in grizz territory.  What you should do is just sit and watch the grizz until he catches a gobbler, then just move in and take it away from him!  Simple solution!  (Sometimes I just amaze myself with the clarity I have in these complex discussions!)   ;D :angel9:

Once you snatch that gobbler from the mouth of that grizz you gotta get back to that truck quick! :TooFunny:

Quote from: Old Timer on May 06, 2022, 09:37:08 PM

Quote from: GobbleNut on May 06, 2022, 08:09:30 AM
After all of the points of discussion made here, I have come up with the perfect strategy for turkey hunting in grizz territory.  What you should do is just sit and watch the grizz until he catches a gobbler, then just move in and take it away from him!  Simple solution!  (Sometimes I just amaze myself with the clarity I have in these complex discussions!)   ;D :angel9:

Once you snatch that gobbler from the mouth of that grizz you gotta get back to that truck quick! :TooFunny:

Here's a diagram from the Montana Turkey Hunting Guide on how the truck dash should look:

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52054154603_c4c5194681_b.jpg)

Just left WY and didn't run into this guy.  Be surprised if many could shuck their turkey load, remember which pocket held the slug, and then roll him into a heap. 
Picture actually of the full mount in the Bass Pro in Denver.  These are one big animal.
Picture two is me with my first Merriam.  Fun week.

Well, OBVIOUSLY..............the Wyoming grizz was either off somewhere killing the last of the elk before moving higher, ORRRRRR....................he had been already run out by the jake flock, nasty old hens and the wolverine.  They'll gang up, ya know ??

Saw a short news blip yesterday about a US Army soldier on a training mission in Alaska being killed by a bear two days ago.  Few details.  May he RIP.  I'm still putting this in my "don't worry about it" file when turkey hunting.  In south Florida we do have our share of black bears and cougars.  I think the 2022 turkey season ended with no causilties.

Cobgrat`s Joey nice pic. must of been a fun hunt. You look like you enjoyed it!

Thanks - it was on the bucket list. 

Quote from: GobbleNut on May 04, 2022, 01:52:26 PM

Quote from: RutnNStrutn on May 04, 2022, 01:38:55 PM
Is this thread still going?

:TooFunny: Now that wolverines have been introduced into the picture, I suspect we will go on for a few more pages....  :D
Hmmm,...do wolverines get a thumbs up or a thumbs down?...  ;D

Sent from my moto z4 using Tapatalk

Quote from: Happy on May 04, 2022, 04:22:02 PM
Here's how you handle Grizz.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220504/ef11779e9dc6654506ae764c529e026c.gif)

Sent from my SM-S901U using Tapatalk

Sent from my moto z4 using Tapatalk

Grizz with MMA moves definitely ups the ante on spring turkey hunting.............     :help:

Quote from: Zobo on May 06, 2022, 08:00:07 AM

Quote from: Yoder409 on May 06, 2022, 06:46:00 AM

Quote from: joey46 on May 06, 2022, 01:41:09 AM

Quote from: RutnNStrutn on May 04, 2022, 01:38:55 PM
Is this thread still going?

Sent from my moto z4 using Tapatalk

Amazing.  Been without internet for a few days.  Having breakfast tomorrow with a 4th generation Montanan now living in Wyoming.  I'll ask his opinion on bear concerns while turkey hunting.   No griz in this area but occasional blacks.

What about wolverines and jake flocks ???     :help:

AND, let's us not forget about the those two hens and the implications of what THEY'RE capable of. I don't believe their role in this can be overstated. Together, we can and will get to the bottom of this.

All you need up there is a mad Canada goose mixed in and no one could survive a trip there!????

I just read this whole thread.  I'm thinking some of you may be sleep deprived due to turkey season. 
"Don't shoot bears even if they attack."
"I'm too pretty to be bear food."  Come on Jim we know each other... :TooFunny:
"Thumbs down."  What's that all about?!?

Go to bed early!   :toothy12:

Quote from: Tail Feathers on May 12, 2022, 10:04:12 PM
I just read this whole thread.  I'm thinking some of you may be sleep deprived due to turkey season. 
"Don't shoot bears even if they attack."
"I'm too pretty to be bear food."  Come on Jim we know each other... :TooFunny:
"Thumbs down."  What's that all about?!?

Go to bed early!   :toothy12:

Dave

Sent from my moto z4 using Tapatalk

Quote from: Tail Feathers on May 12, 2022, 10:04:12 PM
I just read this whole thread.  I'm thinking some of you may be sleep deprived due to turkey season. 
"Don't shoot bears even if they attack."
"I'm too pretty to be bear food."  Come on Jim we know each other... :TooFunny:
"Thumbs down."  What's that all about?!?

Go to bed early!   :toothy12:

Entertaining post.

Thumbs UP !!!    :icon_thumright: :icon_thumright:

I think the bear has moved higher, following the snow line.The gobbler is back on the crick. No sign of wolverine or lion.Jakes are still there,  but no hens.Weather has been wet for weeks. Saw the beaver the other day,  and a big bull. A pilanthrum of wildlife up here on the Canadian.

You better watch those pilanthrums !!!

They can be way more dangerous than grizz.

Normalcy has been reestablish, you're safe now. That gobbler might be taunting you. The time has come to go after him, but you must watch out for those jakes. The hens are no longer a concern so you can breathe easy.

Quote from: Zobo on May 20, 2022, 08:00:52 AM....... but you must watch out for those jakes.

AND the pilanthrums !!!   Don't forget the pilanthrums !!!      :help:

Quote from: Yoder409 on May 20, 2022, 12:24:56 PM

Quote from: Zobo on May 20, 2022, 08:00:52 AM....... but you must watch out for those jakes.

AND the pilanthrums !!!   Don't forget the pilanthrums !!!      :help:

we have an infestation of those pilanthums near my house too.  gotta be careful!!

Quote from: Hoytboy247 on May 20, 2022, 12:36:53 PM

Quote from: Yoder409 on May 20, 2022, 12:24:56 PM

Quote from: Zobo on May 20, 2022, 08:00:52 AM....... but you must watch out for those jakes.

AND the pilanthrums !!!   Don't forget the pilanthrums !!!      :help:

we have an infestation of those pilanthums near my house too.  gotta be careful!!

YOU know what I'm talkin' about..............   :icon_thumright:

Quote from: Zobo on May 20, 2022, 08:00:52 AM
Normalcy has been reestablish, you're safe now. That gobbler might be taunting you. The time has come to go after him, but you must watch out for those jakes. The hens are no longer a concern so you can breathe easy.

Yes, those jakes are running that big gobbler onto the next ranch.

Wrong word!! Lol

Quote from: Yoder409 on May 20, 2022, 12:41:49 PM

Quote from: Hoytboy247 on May 20, 2022, 12:36:53 PM

Quote from: Yoder409 on May 20, 2022, 12:24:56 PM

Quote from: Zobo on May 20, 2022, 08:00:52 AM....... but you must watch out for those jakes.

AND the pilanthrums !!!   Don't forget the pilanthrums !!!      :help:

we have an infestation of those pilanthums near my house too.  gotta be careful!!

YOU know what I'm talkin' about..............   :icon_thumright:

No, we must not forget about the pilanthums! But I know HPD will remain ever vigilant. Pilanthums are mostly harmless and are not to be feared.

I dunno where YOU'RE from............    But, around here, the pilanthums are NASTY !!!

You don't EVER wanna turn your back on one.

Quote from: Yoder409 on May 21, 2022, 09:27:49 AM
I dunno where YOU'RE from............    But, around here, the pilanthums are NASTY !!!

You don't EVER wanna turn your back on one.

  :TooFunny: :TooFunny: :TooFunny:

Quote from: Zobo on May 21, 2022, 09:47:30 AM

Quote from: Yoder409 on May 21, 2022, 09:27:49 AM
I dunno where YOU'RE from............    But, around here, the pilanthums are NASTY !!!

You don't EVER wanna turn your back on one.

  :TooFunny: :TooFunny: :TooFunny:

Dude....................

Laugh if you want.  But a full growed, boar Appa-latchin pilanthrum in full charge ain't no laughin' matter...............    :help:

Lol.Good one.