This is not the time for them to squander energy. Oil-rich nuts are a primary food, as are fruits and whatever berries are left. Salmon are also rich in oils. A bear will devour the rotting spawned-out carcasses in October and November, though he might have ignored them in September when fresh fish were available.

Croplands are a target, even harvested crops like cornfields, where a bear can prospect for leftovers. In the fall, find the food source.

Hunt the water sources, too. Not only are the bears on a binge, they're thirstier than usual. October days can be warm, and an actively feeding bear will not be far from water.

"Look for the north-facing slopes and the timbered draws and for seeps," Van Tassell recommends.

Find a rich food source with water, and chances are good there'll be a bear nearby.

"I think this is one of the better times of year to try calling because the food sources are more limited and the bears still want to pack on weight. They could very well be more aggressive to the call," Van Tassell said.

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
When a stalk stalls because the hunter has run out of cover, a call can attract the bear's attention and bring the animal within range.

Don't call too loudly. A blast of sound is liable to send the bear out of the county. Instead, start soft and make the sound mournful and plaintive, with a continuous wail.

The drawback to a mouth call in this situation is that the bear will pinpoint your position and come in head-on, looking for food -- and a fight. Be ready to give him one.

An electronic call, if it can be put into play with a minimum of trouble, can be positioned away from the hunter to allow for a crossing or a broadside shot.

The predator call, or a fawn bawl or an injured squirrel, heightens the bear's awareness and raises the stakes. An easy meal is one thing a hungry bear wants more than anything else. And he's used to taking food away from smaller predators.

But a bear is easily distracted. On the way in, he may stumble across something else he wants to eat. Keep the sound rolling to keep him on the move.

And give him time. Depending on how far he's got to travel, you may see the bruin in a few minutes, or an hour. Do your scouting first to make sure there are bears in the area, then keep the wind in your favor and your confidence high. Commit to spending an hour at each call set.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION
To order a signed copy of Black Bear Hunting, send $26.50 (which includes S&H) to Gary Lewis Outdoors, P.O. Box 1364, Bend, OR 97709. This hardcover book is packed with valuable information and full-color photos.