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Montana Man Drops Grizzly in Self-Defense During Shed Hunting Trip
A Montana man out searching for shed antlers near Dupuyer shot and killed a charging grizzly bear on Friday, highlighting the potential dangers outdoor enthusiasts face as bears emerge from hibernation this spring.
According to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP), the incident occurred when the man encountered the bear on a brushy hillside. As he attempted to leave the area, the female grizzly reportedly charged him at close range, prompting him to fire his weapon in self-defense.
The 250-pound bear, estimated to be about 13 years old. While the man escaped the encounter without injury, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the quick decisions required when facing potential predator attacks in Montana’s wilderness.
Wildlife officials confirmed the bear had a yearling cub that was found unharmed at the site. FWP stated that no management action will be taken for the orphaned yearling.
This marks the first documented grizzly bear mortality in Montana for 2025, according to FWP’s grizzly mortality dashboard, which was implemented last year to increase transparency about bear deaths in the state.
Safety experts emphasize that anyone venturing into bear country should be prepared for encounters. Paul Ulrich, an experienced Wyoming outdoorsman quoted in a similar incident, noted that shed hunting must be done “with a clear understanding that springtime can be very dangerous, particularly if you encounter a female grizzly with cubs.”
Many wildlife authorities recommend carrying both bear spray and a firearm as backup when in grizzly territory. Zach Key, an avid hunter from Wyoming, described this approach as “cheap insurance,” noting that “if your pistol jams, you still have your bear spray. If your bear spray runs out, you have your pistol.”
While conservation efforts have successfully helped grizzly populations recover in parts of Montana and Wyoming, wildlife management officials emphasize that human safety must remain the top priority when immediate threats arise.
FWP reminds all outdoor enthusiasts to travel in groups, make noise while hiking, carry bear spray, and properly store food and garbage when in bear country. If a bear charges, don’t hesitate to shoot, as a human life is more valuable than a bear’s.
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