Sunrise
November 19th 2011 was the first day of the Pennsylvania black bear season. I had a plan from some years ago and this day I finally tried the idea for reality. The area I decided to try hunting this day was State Game Lands 287 north of the communities of Templeton and Mahoningin Armstrong County.
Railroad bridge over the Allegheny River
This area has rough and treacherous terrain. Steep river hills with some areas clear-cut in past years. The briars and brush from the clear cut makes for terrific bear habitat albeit difficult for the lone bear hunter to hunt.
I decided to climb a river hill in the pre-dawn hours. The elevation here is 1400 feet, steep with rocks ready to take off under a man’s weight. I had to be extremely careful. I need to remind myself of my age once in a while!
Hungry?
Once on top I waited to see what would be the first critter to see. A buck walked down slope to me and looked at the new mass for a few seconds before continuing along the hill’s side. I, too, began to work my plan. I edged about 1/3 way down from the top of the ridge and began a slow sneak peering in all directions. I had hoped any bear feeding in distant fields might use this course of travel. The plan worked.. sort of! I found two piles of fresh bear stool as I walked. the bear apparently used the contours over night. They had been eating various seeds and some corn. 
I walked a long time even into mountain laurel thickets. I eventually made my way back and started up slope. I saw two more does and a grouse and three squirrels. I heard a raven with its raspy call.
Mahoning Creek Valley
With the day winding down I made my way back towards the car. This too was a steep clear-cut area.This trek was rough going as briars ripped along my legs. This is a great place for bear. I may go back here come Monday especially if we get the rain. That would make for some quiet sneaking.
The Allegheny River
This evening I ache!!!!!!!
Larry A. Smail's Blog 
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