It seems that I recently read an article about bear attacks that said you should NEVER play dead. Always fight back.
I think I'd fight anyway possible.
Not sure, but I believe that most grizzly attacks are because they deem you a threat, or are trying to figure out what you are. Playing dead removes the threat. OTOH, black bears in Alaska WILL attack you just to attack you and kill you. You might as well try to fight as they’ll just keep chewing on you if you play dead.
I’m no expert though - just what I heard. And it seems that everyone up there is an “expert” with varying stories and recommendations. The few times I’ve been up there working in the woods I have a big canister of bear spray on a chest harness and a 12-gauge with Bernakke sabot slugs over my shoulder. And try to make enough noise.
Although one guy said he has known grizzlies that hear the noise and come to investigate. (Another “expert”!)
Black bears - fight back
Grizzly or brown bear - play dead and there is a good chance they’ll lose interest.
Polar bear - you wont need to play dead.