ASHTON, Idaho — A hunter shot and killed a grizzly bear in self-defense on Saturday on the Caribou-Targhee National Forest (CTNF) outside of Ashton, Idaho.
According to a Monday press release from Idaho Fish and Game, the man and his young son were hunting black bears near the Cave Falls Road on CTNF when they were charged by a grizzly. The hunter fired at the grizzly, ultimately shooting it dead from about 5 yards away.
“The hunters were sitting on the edge of a meadow when a grizzly began crossing it and seemed to pick up their scent,” reads the statement. “The grizzly then changed direction and headed directly toward the two hunters. As the hunters attempted to alert the grizzly to their presence, it began to charge directly toward them.”
The hunter first fired at the grizzly with his sidearm weapon and quickly changed to his hunting rifle, which released the deadly shot. The news release noted that the man contacted the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office to report the incident as soon as he was able. Idaho Fish and Game was notified and responded immediately.
A thorough investigation has been conducted, and it was determined that the hunter acted in defense of his life. Idaho Fish and Game reminds hunters that grizzly bear encounters can happen in the Greater Yellowstone area, and that the bears are protected under state and federal law.
Idaho Fish and Game has shared the following tips for hunting in grizzly country:
- Carry bear spray and keep it within reach.
- Hunt with partners and remain aware of plans.
- Look for grizzly sign, including fresh tracks, and communicate any evidence with partners.
- Retrieve meat as quickly as possible.
- Hang meat, food and garbage and least 200 yards from camp and at least 10 feet off the ground.
- Make noise, especially around creeks and thick vegetation. Most attacks occur by inadvertently surprising a bear at close range.
