chromeslayer,
Thanks for the encouraging words. I feel that the areas that I spent time in last year were void of bears. Based on the lack of sign, I think I picked bad spots. I just couldn't believe all the other wonderfull attributes of the areas though...like all the berries, water, cover, lack of pressure..........According to all the WestSiders that I've talked to, There should have been bears there, or at least sign. This is precisely why I've posted here looking for advice. At the rate I'm going, I'm not going to live long enough to collect even one bear...

BUT! I've recieved some of the best advice, on this, and another, forum and I can head out this fall with hope and ambition.

Thanks all,
45/70