Montana FWP: Anglers charged by grizzly bear in Centennial Valley

Two anglers were reportedly charged by a grizzly bear Monday while they were fishing in Red Rock Creek on Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. According to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, the bear charged through thick brush, and one of the anglers shot at the bear in self-defense. It is unknown if the anglers were carrying bear spray at the time of the encounter.

"Fortunately, the anglers were able to leave the area uninjured. It’s unknown whether the bear was injured," reads a press release from the agency. Grizzly bear staff and game wardens with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks searched the area Wednesday.



No bears or carcasses were found. No further management action from FWP is planned. Refuge staff with the U.

S. Fish and Wildlife Service have issued a temporary closure of a section of Red Rock Creek for public safety. The closure includes the portion of the creek between Elk Lake Road and Upper Red Rock Lake.

The closure will remain in effect through May 5. Stream access east of the road remains open, and Elk Springs Creek has no closures in effect..