The Arctic Coast has a high concentration of polar bears, especially along Hudson’s Bay. These bears tend to stay on the ice and within a few miles of the coast.
If you are traveling the area, keep a sharp lookout for bear sign. This includes droppings and tracks. Make a lot of noise. Bears will avoid human if they possibly can. Be sure to burn or bury the food area. Women should be cautious of used feminine products. These should be burned immediately as bears are attracted by the scent.
Small islands are often good camping grounds, though bears are excellent swimmers. Look around for bear sign and ensure the island is not the den of a bear. If you accidentally confront a bear, do not act threatening and move slowly away giving the bear lots of room.
You do not have to carry a gun, though in certain areas it is recommended to carry a pump action shotgun loaded with buckshot or a 30-06 rifle. Handguns are illegal on wilderness tours in Canada.
Unless an animal is disturbed with its young, it will usually avoid contact with humans. The Department of Resources, Government of the Northwest Territories, Box 1320, Yellowknife NT X1A 2L9 publish a pamphlet that is very useful to canoeists.
Lake trout, whitefish, northern pike, walleye and grayling are plentiful in the lakes, rivers and streams of the Northwest Territories. Arctic char is plentiful in the rivers that have access to salt water above the treeline.
There are no poisonous reptiles, snakes or insects in Canada’s Northwest Territories.
Basic supplies can be purchased in any community in the Northwest Territories. Yellowknife, Hayriver and Fort Smith have specialized stores and offer freeze-dried foods. Supplies are very expensive in small, isolated centres.
The larger cities have at least one chartered bank. Traveler’s checks are accepted in most communities but credit cards are only honored in certain establishments.
The best way to travel the waters of Canada’s north is with a hired guide. There are a wide variety of outfitters in the area. Be certain to check out the reputation of any outfitter before giving a deposit.
Keep campsites clean and be sure to take along a well-equipped First Aid Kit. Survival Guides can are available on request from the St. John’s ambulance Society, Box 2640, Yellowknife, NT X1A 2R3.
Research your trip. Read books on the area that you plan to visit. This will ensure you a safe and positive wilderness vacation with memories that will last a lifetime.
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