Take full advantage of your experience. Find someone that will take you summer hunting. Its catch and release at its best. If you can make it on a Saturday, most any of the hunters with decent dogs should be able to tree one or two. Lots of bears lots of fun. Many will show you a good time without any thought of your money. Leave some for dog food or bait anyway. As you get to know what is going on, you will begin to appreciate their dedication and investment into the sport. Buy a ticket and go to the convention in Stevens Point in April.
Be warned, its serious fun. You may end up selling your boat and golf clubs. Many good guys running bears, you can make lasting friends.
