I've always carried my .357 whenever in the back country. Bears are main threat, but people can get wonky when away from it all as well. I find an openly carried handgun to be a source of comfort to me and a gentle warning to anyone with evil intent.

I like bears, and I hate to kill anything I don't have too, but I'm not going to allow one to damage me in any way. I'm not interested in 'learning' how to avoid confrontations, or how to keep from 'antagonizing' the bear. I walk where I will, fish where it's legal, and keep my eyes open. I've had to fire two warning shots to keep black bears from venturing too close. They have always ran away at that point.

Personal choice here, of course. I know several fishermen that never carry a firearm anywhere.

Buddy