What you need to bring to bear camp and important info

 We operate and guide in WMU 47, where rifles, shotguns, and bows are all permitted for harvesting your animal. While all methods are welcome, we strongly recommend bow hunting for a more rewarding and challenging experience.

Please ensure that all firearms are properly sighted in prior to your arrival at camp, as we do not have a designated range on-site for this purpose. Bows can be sighted in at camp, and we’re happy to assist with that as needed.

If you require assistance with sighting in your rifle or shotgun, please notify us in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements. Please note: there is a fee for this service.

 Bringing high-quality hunting clothing that blends with your surroundings is essential for a successful hunt. The difference that quality and durability make in the field is undeniable. Gear that is water-resistant or waterproof, quiet, and scent-resistant can significantly increase your chances of a productive and rewarding experience.

That’s why Elite Bear Outfitters has partnered with SKRE Gear—to provide our hunters with top-tier performance clothing built for the rugged demands of the hunt.

As a first-time customer, you’ll receive 15% off your first order.
Visit SKRE Canada today and get geared up with clothing that works as hard as you do in the bush!

 Wearing hunter orange—also known as blaze orange—is critically important for safety when walking in the bush, especially during hunting season.

Hunter orange is a bright, highly visible color that stands out against natural surroundings, making it easy for other hunters to clearly identify you as a person, not an animal. In dense forests or low-light conditions, visibility can be limited, and even experienced hunters can make mistakes if they can’t see you clearly.

Wearing hunter orange significantly reduces the risk of accidental shootings. It doesn’t affect your ability to stay concealed from game animals, as most wildlife—like bears and deer—cannot detect the color the way humans can.

 Wearing a safety harness in a tree stand is absolutely essential for your safety while hunting.

Tree stand falls are one of the leading causes of serious injury and death among hunters. Even experienced hunters can lose balance, slip on wet platforms, or become lightheaded after long hours of sitting. A single misstep can lead to a fall from 10, 15, or even 20 feet—an impact that can result in broken bones, paralysis, or worse.

A properly fitted safety harness, when used with a tether and lifeline system, keeps you securely attached to the tree from the moment you leave the ground to the moment you return. It’s designed to stop a fall instantly and distribute force safely across your body, minimizing injury.

Using a harness isn't just a precaution—it's a life-saving practice. Every hunter using a tree stand should wear one. No animal is worth risking your life.

 Please remember to bring basic camping and toiletry supplies to ensure your comfort and hygiene during your stay at camp. Essential items include:

• A tent (can be provided)
   
• A cot or sleeping pad
   
• A sleeping bag appropriate for the season
   
• Towels for showering
   
• Non-scented body wash and deodorant (to avoid alerting wildlife with strong odors)
   
• Shower slippers or sandals for hygiene and safety in shared facilities
• DOT approved Helmet (we also provide)
   

Having these items will help keep you comfortable and prepared for your time in the bush while also maintaining scent control—an important factor in successful hunting.

  Please ensure you bring enough food, snacks, and drinks to last the duration of your stay at camp. While you're welcome to prepare your own meals, there is also an excellent food truck nearby that offers delicious homemade burgers—a convenient option if you're looking for a hot meal.

Please note: We do not provide food at camp due to insurance reasons, as well as to respect the wide range of allergies, dietary restrictions, and religious preferences our guests may have. This helps ensure everyone's safety and comfort.

If you require special considerations for allergies or religious preferences, please bring your own cooking gear, as we cannot guarantee that the shared BBQ will meet specific standards or avoid cross-contamination.

Alcoholic beverages are permitted in camp, but absolutely no alcohol may be consumed before or during your hunt—no exceptions. This policy is in place for safety, liability, and insurance compliance, and will be strictly enforced.

Smoking is allowed, but we ask that you do so away from clothing, gear, and all common camp areas. This is both out of respect for others and to prevent scent contamination, which can negatively impact your hunt. Please also be mindful of others in camp who may have allergies, religious beliefs, or personal sensitivities regarding smoking or alcohol use.

As always, we expect everyone to respect their fellow hunters and contribute to a clean, safe, and enjoyable camp environment for all.

 Bringing a positive attitude to bear camp goes a long way in creating a great experience—for yourself and everyone around you. Hunting can come with long hours, unpredictable weather, and moments of challenge, but staying patient, respectful, and open-minded helps keep morale high and makes camp life enjoyable for all.

Remember, we're all here to learn, grow, and enjoy the outdoors together. A good attitude not only improves your own hunt—it uplifts the entire group.

There is zero tolerance for unsafe practices with firearms. Any reckless or irresponsible handling of a weapon will result in you being immediately removed from camp—no exceptions.

Likewise, there will be no tolerance for fighting, aggressive behavior, or any form of disruptive conduct toward fellow hunters, staff, or anyone else in camp.

Safety and respect are our top priorities. We expect all guests to conduct themselves responsibly to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.

 All guests must bring any outstanding balance owing to camp—no exceptions. We are a business, and full payment is required in order for you to participate in your hunt.

All payments must be completed during orientation, held on the first day of camp. No exceptions will be made.

We accept e-transfer or cash as forms of payment. If paying by e-transfer, please ensure the payment is sent at least one day prior to your arrival, as it can sometimes take up to 24 hours for the funds to clear.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 All hunters are required to attend orientation on the first day of your hunt.
Please arrive by 10:00 AM, as we will begin promptly at 11:00 AM.

Orientation is designed to ensure a safe, ethical, and successful hunting experience for everyone in camp. We will cover the following key topics:

• Proper handling, loading, and unloading procedures
   
• Muzzle control and safe storage
   
• Safety protocols in and around camp and the field
   

• Correct use of safety harnesses and lifelines
   
• Climbing and descending safely
   
• Tips to avoid fatigue or accidents in elevated positions
   

• Recognizing legal bears (size, age, sex, and behavior)
   
• Identifying sows with cubs (which must not be harvested)
   
• Understanding your ethical responsibilities when choosing to harvest
   
• Shot placement for a quick, humane kill
   

• What to do if you encounter a bear unexpectedly
   
• Handling wounded bear situations
   
• Staying calm and maintaining control of the situation
   

• Respecting others in camp
   
• Alcohol and smoking policies
   
• Cleanliness, food storage, and scent control
   

• Tagging, reporting, and transportation of harvested bears
   
• Review of Ontario MNR laws, WMU-specific rules, and season dates
   
• Understanding your responsibilities as a licensed hunter
   

Many hunters who attend camp are new, so no question is a dumb question. Orientation is your opportunity to ask, learn, and gain the confidence you need for a safe and successful hunt.

To help prepare, we encourage you to research ahead of time using tools like YouTube, hunting forums, and the Ontario MNR website for up-to-date regulations and tips.

Let’s start the hunt off right—informed, prepared, and focused on safety and success