FYI -
For those interested in Grizzly bears in the North Cascade the following might be of interest -
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/ncgb_rp0101.pdf

It is a relatively recent report out of BC on the status of grizzlies in the North Cascade complex (both Canadian and USA). They estimate there are less than 25 bears in the complex. I remember reading in a recent article on potential delisting of them that it has been estimated that there maybe 6 to 10 bears in the USA portion of the complex (they may be animals that wander back and forth over the border) . I believe that it has been estimated that the North Cascades could support several hundred bears. One of the most recent reports of them being in the complex were tracks found near Breeden Lake (the mountains between Bacon Creek and Baker). I would guess the most likely to encounter one would be in the high country during the summer or in thelate fall/early winter along the upper Skagit or Sauk/Suiattle.

In short the likelyhood of encountering a grizzly in the wild on the Skagit is remote at best however if one gets out and about way from the beaten path the likelyhood of encounter signs of one (tracks/sighting) would be higher than your chances of winning the lottery.

Tight lines
S malma