While I certainly agree that my experience was the exception to the generally held beliefs about encounters with black bears, it does underscore the need to be prepared for the unexpected. A further complication is that in many areas of the state, bears may have become habituated to the presence of humans. In my situation, could the charge by the bear have been a bluff charge? Certainly possible, but my decision to fire a warning shot when it was about 100 feet away was based on the fact that the usual recommendations about standing up, etc. did not work and in fact seemed to aggravate the bear. As best I could tell, especially after sitting still for a long period after the shot, there were no cubs in the area. I have never used bear spray but have read that it can be effective. If I had bear spray when this incident occurred, I would most definitely have chosen the warning shot over the spray given the rapidly closing distance. How much time do you have to determine if it is a bluff charge and what are you going to do if it is not a bluff? That said, certainly bear spray is better than nothing. Consider the following from the National Park Service on bear attacks, stressing that in the event of a black bear attack, you need to fight back or it may not end well. Do I think that as a general rule you should carry a firearm when you go for a hike – certainly not. But bear spray is a good suggestion. After my experience, I am extremely wary of black bears but I do not generally arm myself for a hike.
“If a black bear charges and attacks you, FIGHT BACK WITH EVERYTHING YOU HAVE! Do not play dead. Direct punches and kicks at the bear’s face, and use any weapon like rocks, branches, or bear spray to defend yourself.
If a grizzly/brown bear charges and attacks you, PLAY DEAD. Do not fight back!”
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