Just wondering what you mean by this? Downwind of the barrels?
No matter what you do.... a big bear will always circle the bait before it comes in. It doesn't matter where you put the stand. I set up with the trails in mind. Wind direction comes ito play but the big ones are smarter than most whitetail bucks.

I have been hunting bears for a few years now. I am no spring chicken when it comes to baiting. I also have a lot to learn, but I think I am light years ahead of most outfitters because I listen and change to what the season dictates. Here is a bear I had a chance at several times last year.



By the way this bear is looking south. Right towards the cam.... slightly off my stand direction. I had it slightly quartering away that night. I should have shot, but I was waiting for a better shot.

This thread is for everyone. For those that have yet to hunt bear but want to, for those that want to. For those that have thought about doing it themselves, for those that have thought about a guided hunte and those that have had a guided hunt. Bear hunting is a lot of work. For those that love it the work is worth it in the end. I didn't tag a bear last year but have had several good ones.... I wasn't looking for a good one. I was looking for THE exceptional one. The area I hunt carries some good genetics, several over 20" are reported every year. A freind of mine took a 22 3/16's a couple years ago just 10 miles from where my stand site is.

I haven't been on here in awhile. Since they started having problems with the network. I note that they are still having issues. I certainly hope they are worked out sooner rather than later. 49 pm's and my inbox is full. Come on guys