It’s summer and the fish have returned to the rivers. The anglers have also returned in full force as they always do – so many in fact that there’s hardly room for bears. The bears need the fish for survival. In the past, it was not uncommon to view several bears in the Chilkoot River fishing – now you’re lucky if there’s one.
The congestion along the river is bumper-to-bumper campers. Although this is a law against harassing wildlife, the law is ignored. When a bear is sighted, it’s quickly surrounded by people often coming within a few feet, cutting off any chance for escape. Two years ago, I witnessed one frustrated yearling surrounded on the river bank. He stood up looking for an escape route. Finding none, he gave a warning woof. He was shot and killed as being aggressive! Bears have been seen with hooks caught in their noses and tongues.
I believe the Chilkoot River should be closed from the weir to the bridge to anglers. Bears need that fish to survive winter hibernation. There are alternate places for sport fishing.
Eventually, viewing stands could be placed along the river for safe viewing. We have the unique opportunity to view bears in their natural habitat. One monitor on weekends would keep control. The time for planning is over. It’s time to do something now before it’s too late.
Dixie Hayes