Tuesday, April 21, 2026
36.0°F

Authorities continue search for missing paddleboarder Emily Rea

TAYLOR INMAN | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 1 year, 8 months AGO
by TAYLOR INMAN
REPORTER AND PODCAST HOST Taylor Inman covers Bigfork and the north shore of Flathead Lake for the Bigfork Eagle and the Daily Inter Lake. Her reporting focuses on local government, community issues and the people who shape life in Northwest Montana. Inman began her journalism career at Murray State University’s public radio newsroom and later reported for WKMS, where her work aired on National Public Radio. In addition to reporting, she hosts and contributes to Daily Inter Lake podcasts including News Now. Her work connects listeners and readers with the stories shaping communities across the Flathead Valley. IMPACT: Taylor’s work expands local journalism through both traditional reporting and digital storytelling. | August 1, 2024 3:55 PM

Search and rescue crews continue their search of Hungry Horse Reservoir for a missing paddleboarder who was last seen on July 16.


It is believed Emily Rea, 33, was alone when she put her paddleboard into the reservoir sometime after 8:30 p.m., on July 16, according to a release from the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday. Authorities said the information is based on cellphone data, security camera footage and Rea’s vehicle location at the Riverside Boat Launch parking lot. The boat launch is 21 miles up the South Fork Road on the reservoir's east side.  


Over the past two weeks, deputies have received numerous follow-up reports and tips regarding the search for Rea. However, none of the tips provided substantiated information beyond what was already reported, according to authorities. 


On July 17, Rea’s paddleboard was found upside down in the Flossy Creek area, more than 2 miles west of the boat launch. Weather reports show a westerly wind on the reservoir the night of July 16, consistent with the paddleboard's location, authorities said.  Her paddle was found stowed and assembled on the board. 


Her cellphone was not with the board and last pinged on a tower reachable on the South Fork Road between Martin City and the Riverside Boat Launch, with the time of the ping consistent with her travel from the last security camera sighting to the Riverside Boat Launch.   


The Flathead County Sheriff's Office deployed multiple search and rescue units, including K9 teams, boat teams equipped with sonar and underwater robots, ground teams, Two Bear Air, drone teams and divers. To date, personnel have spent more than 1,800 hours searching for Rea, according to the release. 


 


Deputies also received assistance from the Forest Service, Montana Fish and Game, Lake County Sheriff's Office, Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, Glacier National Park and several other agencies and independent resources.  


Rea works at the nature based The Skola school in Whitefish and is living in West Glacier. 


Rea’s friends and family members have created social media pages to help organize and coordinate search efforts. On Facebook, information can be found on the Search for Emily Rea – Flathead County, MT page, and on Instagram, can be found under @eyesforemily.  


Efforts to locate Rea are ongoing.



READ MORE:

Still searching one year later: The disappearance of Emily Rea

‘Paddle out’ at Somers Beach to bring awareness to Emily Rea search

Family and friends of missing paddleboarder continue to seek answers

Mother of missing paddleboarder reflects on search and rescue efforts

Family of missing paddleboarder offers $25,000 for tips leading to her return

Flathead sheriff says use of more advanced sonar is next in search for Emily Rea

Authorities searching for woman last seen near Hungry Horse Reservoir

ARTICLES BY TAYLOR INMAN

Babb chef competes in ‘Indigenous Inspiration’ episode of Chopped
April 21, 2026 midnight

Babb chef competes in ‘Indigenous Inspiration’ episode of Chopped

Mariah Gladstone, founder of Indigikitchen, will be competing on Food Network’s “Chopped” Tuesday evening, where contestants will be using Native American inspired ingredients while cooking against the clock.

Casa Luna brings a taste of Spain to the Flathead Valley
April 19, 2026 midnight

Casa Luna brings a taste of Spain to the Flathead Valley

Casa Luna is a new restaurant from the Valera family, who own Casa Mexico in Kalispell and Vaqueros in Columbia Falls. Started by Francisco and Graciela Valera, Casa Mexico has been dedicated to providing friendly hospitality and top-notch Mexican food for over 20 years.

Paul Cauthen returns to Flathead Valley to launch Majestic Valley Arena into new era
April 14, 2026 midnight

Paul Cauthen returns to Flathead Valley to launch Majestic Valley Arena into new era

An elated Paul Cauthen might have been enjoying a motorcycle ride through Big Bend National Park last week, but he was already looking forward to returning to one of his favorite destinations: Northwest Montana.