Ooof that sucks. The only thing that has happened to me is have my confidence destroyed. Over 25 days in the woods this summer/fall and nothing to show for it.
RokSliders, I have been on a float hunt down the Chatanika (Lower Camp to Murphy dome road ext). I have hunted the chicken hills as well as the hills south east of circle hot springs. In numerous adventures I have not come across any black bears just grizzlies. I don't have the time to drive...
When I am out in either grizz or black bear spots I do not carry spray. When I am still hunting or glassing I have my pistol strapped under my bino harness. When I am walking through extra "beary" brush I unclip the pistol and am holding it, 1 in the chamber, on safe. In case I get a bum rush...