Jim J Solo wrote on Jun 13^th, 2013 at 2:37pm:

I_C, You know the 1st thing these guys would do is put on a pair of brown pants,,,, :-? so people wouldn't know how scared they really were,,, :o

Yup, I'd have brown pants alright but better brown pants with a plan than brown and bloody without one. ;)

I'm less worried about a bear killing me outright.
If that would occur, then my "problem" is solved.
What concerns me more is being mauled to the point I couldn't get out or signal for help and left to die a slow/lingering death.

IC, I'm sure somebody in Ely carries it. I know Piragis does in it's catalog.
Just make sure whatever product you buy, it clearly states on label that it's for use on animals ONLY and not for personal defense ( like pepper spray) .
I believe pepper spray is illegal in Canada and  could cause you problems with the customs people.

You know my intent wasn't to terrify you or anyone else, especially solo paddlers but that being said, going solo has enough risk involved that you can't plan/foresee.

If your going to take a SPOT device because your concerned about others worrying unnecessarily, then having some bear spray for the worst case scenario is just an extension of that concern.

What good is the SPOT if your not alive to use it or unable too because your badly injured. :question