Hunter shoots charging grizzly bear near Placid Lake

MISSOULA – Wildlife officials say a grizzly bear was shot and killed by a hunter on Saturday, November 2, 2024, following an encounter south of Placid Lake.

The hunter said the bear attacked at close range and then shot the animal dead.

Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks says the hunter was not injured during the encounter.

FWP rangers responded and confirmed that an adult male bear had been killed.

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service is investigating the incident.

No other details have been released.

FWP tips for hunting and recreation in bear country:

• Make sure you have bear spray on hand and know how to use it.
• Make noise to alert bears to your presence and travel and hunt in groups if possible.
• Use extra caution around creeks and in areas with limited visibility. Most attacks occur in surprise, close encounters.
• Look for signs of bears, such as scat, excavations, torn logs and fallen rocks, and partially eaten animal carcasses, and be extra alert or avoid these areas.
• Stay away from animal carcasses, which often attract bears. If field dressing an animal, bring what is needed to remove the meat from the slaughter site as quickly as possible and keep bear spray on hand.
• If you must leave the meat in the field during collection, hang it at least 10 feet above the ground and at least 500 feet from the casing pile. Leave it where it can be observed from a distance of at least 200 yards.
• When you return, first observe with binoculars. Make noise as you approach, and if something has been disturbed by a bear, move away and call FWP.

Visit fwp.mt.gov/bear-aware for more information about living, working and recreating in bear country.