On my backpacking trip in Aug each time I will be camping next to an Alpine lake. Instead of hanging my bag I was wondering if I could submerge it. Was going to use a sea to summit drybag. Add some heavy rocks and sink it 3 or 4 feet in the lakes. I figure they wont be able to smell it if its underwater
Registered: 02/03/06
Posts: 6799
Loc: Gateway to Columbia Gorge
My eldest son tried that once (fish in a ziplock plastic bag) and the local raccoons had a feast.
I can't hang stuff (being a horrible thrower and having arthritis to boot), so i use an Ursack. The S29 model is legal to use in jurisdictions that state that IGBC (Interregional Brizzly Bear Committee) approved containers must be used.
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May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view--E. Abbey
Anecdotally, I've read accounts of folks who successfully used the submersion trick. Just know that typical roll-top bags will seep water with enough depth and time so count on double-bagging the contents.
I've used Ursacks for years with no issues, but have never had a bear test them either. They're not cheap but super convenient compared to rigid canisters and tree-hanging.
I would hate to submerge my food, only to find out it accidently leaked! Actually submerging a food bag is not that easy- they tend to float. A quality dry-sack will weigh as much as the gear needed to hang food.
I have a good roped hanging system, a Ursack, and several different bear cans. It all depends on where I go. Most of the Sierra either explicitly require a bear can or word the hanging regulations so difficult that you can rarely comply with the law. I mean, counter-balance it 12 feet high? Me? How to I get it down, I am only 5'4" tall. And of course, once above timber, you cannot technically meet those requirements either.
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