M_M,

That was one hell of a trip and report.
I admire your DIY repair work. I bring a lot of repair gear because you never know when you might need it.

You lucked out meeting those engineers that gave you the extra repair supplies. Of course you have to know how to MacGyver things and improvise. Those willow saplings and Zip ties are genius.

Nice to have a partner that is a plus not a minus as well. Any woman that can handle a 12 gauge pump gun with slugs ( I presume) is one hell of a tripping partner.  ;) ;D

  Why do you think that bear went after the canoe and not your tent or you for that matter?
  Better the boat than you guys for sure.
  I wonder if you rigged the boat with those food bag alarms bow and stern would that have scared the bear off :-/

  Looking forward to reading your other trip report.