a year . When I had scouted my location , I saw that the bear trails looked like cattle paths through the timber . The brook behind me and ridge to my left would act as a funnel and bears likely would not approach behind me . I rested my crossbow on the rail of the tree stand and settled in for a wonderful evening sit .
It ’ s not dark until close to 10 pm during the spring hunt and at 7:09 pm as I sat watching the timber intently , a massive black head emerged from the trees , followed by a blocky frame . A giant black bear was now standing 32 yards from my stand . He was looking the scene over . I knew immediately he was a huge mature bear . His ears were off to the sides of his head , his frame was tall and long , and as he took his next few steps exposing himself broadside I saw a true tell-tale sign of a big boar with his roman nose . He paused then entered my shooting lane , he threw a log off the food cache and grabbed a bite and sauntered back into the timber . I only had a rushed shot and never even lifted my bow to think about it . I knew he was a dominate bear and not scared , so I waited patiently and 15 minutes later he slowly walked back in . This time he walked towards me , then turned to his left giving me a perfect broadside shot at only 13 yards . I settled the crosshair behind his right shoulder and squeezed , my lit nock left no doubt as the arrow passed clean through his vitals . The bear turned and ran and expired 20 yards away .
That quiet May night , got even quieter as I was a humbled hunter climbing down to see the amazing bear I had just harvested . With hours of daylight still left , I approached the massive black bear and sat quietly enjoying the incredible moment in the Canadian wilderness that I felt so fortunate to have had .
We ate that delicious bear with our walleye we had caught and the thick spring coat made a stunning rug . I can ’ t wait to return to Algoma !
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