Few clues in search for angler missing in park

An extensive ground and aerial search gave way to a narrowed focus on the confluence of McDonald Creek and Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park Thursday as the search for a missing Hungry Horse man continued.

Searchers found a fishing pole Wednesday that family members and friends believe belongs to 30-year-old Michael William Sloan. No additional clues were found Thursday, according to park public affairs officer Wade Muehlhof.

Divers found the pole where McDonald Creek empties into Lake McDonald. Based on the location of the fishing pole and other evidence retrieved since the search began Tuesday night, efforts are now focused on the confluence, according to the park service.

The search for Sloan began soon after he was reported missing to Glacier Park Dispatch at about 6 p.m Tuesday. Rangers located his vehicle at about 6:20 p.m. near the bridge over Upper McDonald Creek. A pair of shoes were found nearby, leading searchers to believe he might have entered the water in fishing waders.

After a day of searching yielded few clues Wednesday, authorities are now utilizing a sonar device and dive time from Flathead County.

Muehlhof said the search area is treacherous due to a steep drop-off and the powerful down-flowing currents of McDonald Creek. He described the current as “an underwater waterfall.”

Muehlhof said officials are constantly evaluating the nature of the search and there has not been a decision on how long it will last.

Forty-five people assisted in Wednesday’s efforts, and Muehlhof said that number was down slightly on Thursday.

The park service is leading the search with assistance from the Flathead County Dive Team, North Valley Search and Rescue and Flathead County Search and Rescue. A contracted helicopter from Minuteman Aviation of West Glacier has also been utilized.