A massive Fish and Wildlife patrol boat rounded the rocky point, cutting through the swells at top speed and spraying white water in all directions. "Stay still! We've got you!" an officer yelled over a loudspeaker.
The sheer size of the rescue vessel and the deafening roar of its engines startled the bear. The animal halted mid-stroke, turning its head toward the rising wall of aluminum and flashing red lights. Two officers stood at the bow of the patrol boat, aiming heavy tranquilizer rifles down at the water.
THWIP! THWIP! Two pneumatic pops echoed across the water. Two fresh darts with bright yellow feathers struck the bear squarely in the shoulder and neck. The bear let out a sharp roar of frustration, splashing violently as the full, proper dosage of high-grade sedative surged into its bloodstream. Within seconds, its furious strokes turned heavy and slow.