Montana Grizzly Attack: Two Men Shoot Bear In Self-Defense

Welp, if you needed any more proof that Montana can still be a wild and dangerous place, here it is. We've got another grizzly bear attack on our hands — and it's uncomfortably close to the last one. This latest incident happened just 30 miles south of where another man was charged by a grizzly while shed hunting back in April. (He made it out alive, by the way — you can catch that story below.)

READ MORE: Montana Man Lives to Hunt Again After Grizzly Attack

Grizzlies are still federally protected, even though Montana has been pushing in recent years to get them delisted. The recovery and management of grizzly populations is honestly one of the greatest conservation success stories out there — but it's also leading to an increase in run-ins with humans. Not exactly shocking.

This most recent encounter happened on May 21st. Two men were up north of Choteau, hunting for mushrooms, when they were suddenly charged by a grizzly. According to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, the bear got too close for comfort, both men fired in self-defense, and thankfully, both walked away physically unharmed — though definitely rattled.

"I spoke to John and Justin shortly after the incident and they were both still shook up," said FWP Director Christy Clark. "They told me their story, and it was clear it was very traumatic. What's important here is they're OK."

The bear was a sow with one cub — and FWP is still trying to locate the young bear. So far in 2025, four grizzlies have been killed in Montana for various reasons. You can track grizzly mortality stats HERE.

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As Montana continues to navigate the line between conservation and public safety, do you think it's time to reexamine grizzly protections? Let us know HERE.