Advice on running a bear bait stations

[a_bow_nut]

I've drawn a bear tag for this year and will be setting up some baiting stations when the season opens.

Since this is my first time I would appreciate and tips or advice on things that will help with the hunt.

Thanks in advance.
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[MSM1970]

I have not drawn that tag but i have run across a couple station, tree stand for sure, they piled logs to make an opening that the bear had to come around to enter the station giving the perfect 1/4 away shot, I've heard pastries is the best bait, expect the bear to check out your stand, I would set it up as soon as possible with out the bait, don't forget to GPS it, I think you have to tell the local CO where they are.
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[catchinon]

When I was living and hunting in Colorado many years ago the bear hunters would lead a worthless old horse up to where they wanted a bait station and shoot it. Or sometimes they would use old sheep. Not sure about the legalities or current ethical considerations now. And I second the use of pastries, the sweeter the better. Good luck. It sounds like a lot of fun.
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[2knots]

When we hunted Oregon years ago a couple of the guys we meet hunted bears over bait stations, they would connect with a local bakery and get the day old donuts or apples. They would set up a couple of stations before the season and then check them to see which ones were getting hit and then focus on keeping those stocked with bait until they tagged out
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[RILEYFISH]

I will chime in with the sweet stuff, along with pouring molasas or some type of syrup over it.

I would contact some of your local 7-11 and maverick stores. See if they have any old donuts or even a local krispy creme and see what they are doing with old leftovers.


I would also look on YouTube. A guy can usually always find some good reads and ideas on there.

Good luck. Looking forward to some trail cam pics and a trophy pic later.
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[lifeshort]

We would also get old fry oil from fast food joints. Pour this around the station then they would walk in it and leave a nice scent trail through the woods for other bears to follow back to the stand
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[BEARCLAW]

An old friend of mine that hunted up around Manitoba swore by bacon. Said he would cook the bacon at the station and leave it.
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[PACKFAN]

Congrats, good luck to you.
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[a_bow_nut]

Thanks for the replies everybody.

In the process of getting the equipment ready and have selected the two areas to set up in. Waiting for the snow to melt so I can get in and find some good locations to build the stations.
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[catchinon]

Two more ideas for bait. You could use any non-game fish. I'm not sure if that would include white bass or not. But you can get plenty of chubs below the dam at Scofield. There are 20 jillion carp in Utah Lake and if you are into archery fishing you would be all set.

You could use sweet feed. In case you don't know, that is grain covered in molasses. The grain itself is corn, oats, and barley, aka COB. It's used for livestock. You can get it at CAL Ranch, IFA, etc. If you put it in a container with limited access, like a barrel with a small hole in it, they won't be able to get much at a time and won't clean you out too fast. Keeps them coming back.

Sorry if I'm telling you things you already know. I'm sure you've done a lot of research.

Good luck. I wish I were going. Too much fun!
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[BRL1]

I don't hunt bears and don't know anything about bait stations.
But my brother has been working for a guy that is setting up stations in Utah and Idaho. He wants all the Carp we can get him.
I do know there a some good bears in the state.
A friend got his in 2016 started out as a spot and stalk but I think he finished up with hounds.


Good luck.
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[MACMAN]

I have not set one up, but have hunted over bait several times. I would stay away from meat that will rot. You’ll be smelling whatever you put there too and rotting maggot filled fish won’t be awesome. Good things I’ve seen used are oils like anise and grease like was mentioned. Anything that sticks and sinks in works well smeared on trees and brush. The actual bait that was used was popcorn soaked in shore lunch fish grease. It’s light and easy to pack. In Canada, they would put a hole in the barrel just big enough for a piece to fall out. That makes the bear work and stay around longer. I don’t think you can use a barrel in Utah. They will also eat until it’s gone, so make it hard or one bear will clean you out. The one exception to the meat is Beaver. They will always use a Beaver if one is available, again not sure if it’s legal here. Good luck- sounds fun.
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[a_bow_nut]

Thanks for the suggestions everybody.

In Utah you are not allowed to use any type of artificial container (steel, plastic, ect…) so I'll make some cribs with trees to help limit access and position the bear for a good shot opportunity.

I'm open for any suggestions that anybody has.
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