I just got back froma 4 day hunt for black bears in upper Essex County in the Adirondacks. I didn't see a freaking thing haha. The only sign I saw was a log that had been turned over and ripped open to the middle where it ate all the grubs. I did however see a ton of deer sign, but no deer. The only living thing I saw was a few ruffled grouse which I had never seen before so that was cool. That stuff is thick up there.....I could barely see a thing. Im addicted though hahaha im going back when regular deer season opens up. Mayb my luck will be alittle better......but I have family who hunted there and said u could go 10 years without seeing a deer or bear, but usually when you do they ae freakin big.