Archery hunter survives grizzly bear attack in Idaho

FREMONT COUNTY, Idaho ( ABC4 ) — An archery hunter was attacked by an adult male grizzly bear in Island Park, Idaho, on Sunday, Sept. 1, according to Idaho Fish and Game.

The man was hunting elk with a friend on the Caribou-Targhee National Forest near the Divide Creek Road, west of Henrys Lake, when the attack happened.

It was a surprise encounter — one of the hunters was quickly knocked down and bitten by the bear. Both men grabbed their sidearms and shot the bear, officials said.

Their quick response kept the bear from attacking further and resulted in the bear’s death. Conservation officers reportedly conducted a thorough investigation and determined that the hunters acted in self-defense.

The hunters called 911 and the injured individual was airlifted to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.

“I am extremely grateful that both of these individuals survived this encounter,” said Fish and Game Regional Supervisor Matt Pieron. “I have had the opportunity to speak with the injured hunter and his family and they are truly wonderful people. I wish him a speedy recovery from his injuries and the trauma these two hunters experienced.”

Grizzly bears are protected under state and federal law. Fish and Game is reminding hunters that these animals may be found in northern Idaho and the Greater Yellowstone area. Officials are calling this incident a “surprise encounter” from a “very close distance.”

Here are some tips to keep in mind when hunting in grizzly country, provided by Idaho Fish and Game:

• Carry bear spray and keep it readily accessible.
• Hunt with partners and make each other aware of plans.
• Look for grizzly bear sign, including fresh tracks. Let partners know if you do see sign.
• Retrieve meat as quickly as possible.
• Hang meat, food, and garbage at least 200 yards from camp and at least 10 feet off the ground.
• When not hunting, make noise, especially around creeks and thick vegetation. Most attacks occur by inadvertently surprising a bear at close range.

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