MDC has always been kinda goofy in the way they managed the bears. Growing up as a kid in the late 70's, bear sightings were beginning to happen then. By the 80's, enough were seen that they started blaming Arkansas for them. And all of the news stories were covered by just a male passing thru toward somewhere else looking for a mate. Why don't we manage them like the elk, pour tons of dollars into them and let a few people get a shot at one for a rug. But they treat them like mountain lions.
I am no bear biologist, but have studied animals throughout my life. Most just stick there nose up in the air for a whiff of poon when mating season comes around and head that direction. They don't go traveling aimlessly over several states hoping they will find the right one.