Thanks for the kind words everyone. After a couple of days removed from the experience, I'm feeling better. Here are a few of the pictures post-recovery.
I never found out how much the bear weighed. I'm pretty sure he was over 250 lbs, probably more than 300 lbs. I never moved something that heavy before in the bush. He definitely dwarfed me while hanging - I'm 5'11, 170 lbs. The hide weighed 63 lbs if that's any indication, 6'6" on the gambrel when I had him hung up. He has no unusual markings (i.e.. on the chest) completely black. I'm definitely aiming further forward next time I shoot a bear. He was so close, perfectly broad side at only 10 yards distance, I could have shot him anywhere I wanted. Had he only went 50-100 yards, and died right away, the whole experience would have been very positive. There was a ton of meat on that bear.
Things I will do differently next time out for bear:
1. I'd like to find someone with experience who is willing to help out. I think I'm good now with the baiting aspect (locations, bait quality, timing and set-up) I learned a lot on this site, thanks to all who have contributed knowledge over the last year esp. shultzy, bassboys and of course Dan. I will need help with the aftermath of the kill - getting it out, processing etc.
2. I want to use better broadheads. I think the ones I used (Allen 125 grains) may not have done the trick. I know I cut into his one lung and the bottom of his liver. The arrow stayed in the boiler room, no guts. I'm especially bummed that it took this bear about 12 hours to die. Had the cuts been bigger, I think it would have succumbed within a couple of hours.
3. Although I managed a fatal shot by aiming in the middle of the middle, after this experience, I will be shooting for the crease, or at least 4 to 6 inches further to the front of where I aimed this time. I'm sure that the middle of the middle is usually a safe shot (sounds like it's recommended) but I really want to make sure I hit two lungs next time.
Happy bear hunting and good luck to everyone else who is partaking in the season this year. I'm looking forward to seeing other beasts succeed. I've been following Dan, Shultzy, bowhunter15 and Bassboys on their quests. Best of luck on filling your tags.
Daniel.