baiting likely illegal. Some guys are having success with predator calls I hear.

Their eyesight isn't all that great, but they more than make up for it with their nose and ears. From your name, I'm assuming you live in WV so baiting is out, and you also need to purchase a bear stamp. I'm used to doing it with hounds, so if you live in or near a county that permits, I suggest you try to hook up with one of the dog gangs. If not, much like a deer, look for food sources. If archery hunting, remember, they have a heavy hide and lots of fat that can keep from producing a good blood trail, and big, heavy bones, so with a firearm I think better to err on the heavy side as far as caliber and bullet. I carry a .300 Win Mag with 180 grain Hornaday interlocks. Finally, a word of caution, it's addictive if done right. Welcome to the clan.