Wyoming Game and Fish Bear Spray Giveaway in Cody on Aug. 30

In an effort to ensure wilderness safety, Wyoming Game and Fish is distributing 115 cans of spray to hunters at the Cody Stampede Rodeo Grounds next Monday.

In cooperation with the Safari Club International Foundation and Western Bear Foundation, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department will distribute bear spray to hunters and anglers at no cost on Monday, Aug. 30, at the rodeo grounds in Cody.

Luke Ellsbury, Large Carnivore Biologist for Game and Fish, said 115 cans of bear spray will be given away to hunters or anglers who possess a current Wyoming hunting or fishing license on a first-come, first-serve basis. The bear spray was purchased with monetary donations from Safari Club International Foundation.

Courtesy Wyoming Game and Fish

This is the sixth year Game and Fish has partnered with organizations to give away bear spray to hunters and anglers in Cody.

“Bear spray is an effective deterrent in an aggressive bear encounter, and we hope this effort continues to raise awareness and remind those recreating in bear country to be prepared and stay safe,” Ellsbury said.

In a bear encounter, bear spray is generally more effective than firearms. While the spray has a wide dispersal area, firearms require precision – which can be difficult when being charged down by a 500-pound grizzly.

The giveaway will begin at 8 a.m. in the front parking lot of the Cody Stampede Grounds (519 West Yellowstone Ave.) in Cody. Participants will be asked to form several lines with their vehicles. They will then drive to a designated area where volunteers will distribute the spray to individuals in their vehicles.

To receive a free can of bear spray, hunters must show a current Wyoming hunting or fishing license when they pull up.

“This is a great opportunity for Game and Fish to promote safety as many hunters prepare for the fall season,” Ellsbury said.