I know this thread was from a long time ago, but I just now saw it.
I live in Alaska, in bear country. See attached cell phone pics of brown bear tracks (a sow and cub) that I took on 12-06-2023, just last week.
I carry a handgun when I am away from my truck when I am out taking photos. I don't carry bells, but that is just a personal preference, as lots of people up here do carry bells when in bear country. My photographer friend and I do make lots of noise when she and I are out in the woods. Talking loudly is a good way to let bears know you are there. I also think air horns are a good idea. I think it was the US Geological Survey (?) that used to have its surveyors carry an air horn and blast it every 15 minutes or so when out in the backwoods. When you are near running water or something else that makes noise, you may need something really noisy to ensure you are heard!
