Big Sky Outdoor News & Adventure - January 2009

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JANUARY 2009 Volume 5 Issue 11

Ice Fishing Tips & Tricks From An Expert To Yield Success

»Slick Tricks For Winter Predators -Hunting’s Hot Issues In 2009 -Top Tags For 2009 -Fly Tying -Statewide Fishing Report -Calendar Of Events

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JANUARY 2009

JANUARY 2009

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE •

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Hunting’s Hot Issues In ‘09

BY ANDREW MCKEAN

I

f you think the biggest hunting decisions are made in the field, then you’re either naïve or a beginner.

The big picture—the one that defines where, when and even how you can hunt—is framed miles away from your elk camp or duck blind, often by folks who wouldn’t know a drop tine from a hail call.

Decisions made by Montana’s legislature, by the Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission, even by bureaucrats in Washington, will affect your enjoyment and success this year.

So in the spirit of new beginnings, and old ideas, here are some issues Montana hunters need to watch in 2009: • Wolves: The tolerance of Montana’s hunters is being sorely tested by these wild canines, and wildlife managers need to be aware that simmering discontent is starting to boil. FWP is in an unenviable position of having to balance control of rapidly expanding predators with the kid-gloves treatment dictated by federal endangered species rules. Watch for FWP to become more vocal about the impact wolves are having on big-game populations, maybe even finally suggesting that wolves are partly responsible for last fall’s record-low elk harvest.

• Block Management: This access program is wildly popular, but with more than 8 million acres under contract and dwindling revenue, it’s time to find a more stable funding base.

Hunters are almost universally willing to pay more for access, but they need to be assured that it will be good habitat.

• Minimum Hunting Age: It’s time for Montana to join the national movement that is lowering or even abolishing minimum age limits for hunting. The catalyst for the trend is

decreasing involvement of kids in hunting, and many analysts think making kids wait until they’re 12 is one reason. Look for this issue to come before the Montana Legislature, and Hunter Ed instructors—many of whom have resisted lowering the age limit—will have a big role in its fate.

• Ranching For Wildlife: Speaking of polarizing legislation, don’t be surprised to see Montana’s agricultural community pushing for more biggame management on private land. In Colorado, this is called Ranching for Wildlife, and it allows private landowners to sell big-game tags (usually for big money) in exchange for offering a few hunts to the public. In Montana the argument will be “forage compensation,” with ranchers arguing that they should be able to profit from elk and deer that are eating their hay and grain. Forget that this is totally contrary to America’s tradition of public ownership of wildlife, look for critics of Ranching for Wildlife to remind cattle growers that forage compensation should also include revisiting subsidized grazing leases on public land. That should neutralize the issue.

• CWD: Montana has dodged this bullet for a few years, but don’t be surprised to find that the disease that kills elk, deer and even moose has arrived in Big Sky Country. It’s likely to come from in the state from Wyoming’s Bighorn Basin (or maybe Saskatchewan) and you can expect an intense big-game eradication effort wherever it’s detected. That means game wardens killing deer and elk, maybe even using helicopters to wipe out the infected herd.

MICHAEL L. SHEPARD SHIRAS 140-2/8 B&C Lincoln, MT. 2004 • World-Record Bighorn Sheep and Moose: On a more positive note, it’s just about time for Montana to leap to the front of the record books. The most likely species to establish new marks? Shiras moose and bighorn sheep.

Look for a 210-inch ram head

MOOSE

to come out of the Missouri River Breaks this year, and a world-record moose is due to come traipsing out of Saskatchewan into Montana’s Hi-Line, where a moose hunting season (2 permits) will be held for only the second time this fall.

JANUARY 2009

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE •

Clark Fork Riverfront Access Secured -

MFWP

M

ontana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) accepted a donation of approximately 22 acres of land along the Clark Fork River southeast of Missoula this week as an addition to the existing Bearmouth Fishing Access Site.

The property will triple the size of the existing Bearmouth Fishing Access and provide public access to low, level banks on both sides of the river.

Private landowner, Gene Tripp, donated the land to Five Valleys Land Trust (Five Valleys), a Missoula-based nonprofit conservation organization, which is conveying the property to FWP. “We are honored to have worked with Mr. Tripp on several conservation projects,” Five Valleys Executive Director, Grant Kier said. “In this case we are delighted to help him realize his conservation vision by improving public access to one of western Montana’s great rivers. It is the commitment to conservation from landowners like Mr. Tripp that defines western Montana’s natural legacy.”

According to FWP Fisheries Administrator, Chris Hunter, “This addition will greatly enhance the public use and enjoyment of the Clark Fork corridor, especially in a reach that is currently underserved from an access point of view.”

Hunter says he appreciates Five Valleys’ continued willingness to work collaboratively to protect and provide access to Montana’s treasured natural and recreational resources.

Bearmouth is the only Fishing Access Site in the 30-mile stretch of river from Drummond to Beavertail Hill State Park. The site is just north of the I-90 and easily accessible from the Bearmouth Exit.

As efforts continue to clean up the Clark Fork and restore the fishery, the donation will help FWP serve the increasing number of anglers who are expected to use the area.

Although no developments are planned for the site at this time, the donation will provide an ideal location for future facility development, such as a boat ramp or parking area.

“This is a great opportunity to expand a Fishing Access Site on a part of the Clark Fork where we haven’t traditionally had much access,” said Lee Bastian, FWP Region 2 State Parks Manager. “Even without developments, the site provides good opportunity for walk-in boating and fishing access and other recreation.”

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Editor’s Note Well, it’s January, the daylight hours are much shorter than they were in September and October.

What’s there to do? Right. Well, quite a bit if you have the time to put in. Here are some ideas to consider: Ice Fishing: After all of the freezing temperatures in December, the ice fishing should be great. There are a lot of derbies going on this month.

The Perch Assault begins this month and goes through March. Mike Howe at 406-249-0556 can answer any questions you might have. The Pike on Ice held on Seeley and Salmon Lakes will be January 17-18th, just to name a couple. You can go to MFWP website for the ice fishing derby dates and locations or turn to page 26.

Snowmobiling: After a mild late fall season, the snow and cold have hit Montana in a hurry. Snowmobiling can be a lot of fun. If you are thinking about just starting to ride, talk to your local snowmobile dealer. They can set you up with not only equipment, but also tell you where to ride. It’s also a good idea to join a snowmobile club in your area, as they are good about organizing rides.

Predator hunting: If you’re still feeling the hunting itch, give predator hunting a try. For those I know who take it seriously, “It’s the best time to be in the woods,” says Blake Hames owner of Mission Mountain Tanning. With no hunting pressure, snow on the ground and a good predator call, you can have a lot of fun and success hunting coyotes this time of the year. Hit your favorite sporting goods store, and ask the hunting department to get you set-up.

Steelhead fishing: If the weather cooperates in the Clearwater drainage, winter Steelhead will be running through the Clearwater and Salmon rivers. You can enjoy success this time of the year. It can be cold, but well worth the trip.

Those are just a few ideas from us. The best thing about all of these ideas are having fun with your friends and family in our great outdoors.

This month’s issue also includes the position on wolves from the RMEF and also the Boone and Crockett Club. A hot topic among us.

We commend them for making a positive stand on getting the wolves delisted. For those who do not understand what is going on - It’s thisThe longer the wolf is on the endangered species list, the more the elk, moose and deer herds in Montana, Idaho, Wyoming and other areas will continue to suffer and dwindle. The wolf needs to be managed as the big game species they are. The people we elect must know the decisions they make are the right ones.

I would like to thank all of you who took the time to send us your photos. The response was amazing.

They were all great and it was difficult to choose just 3 as the top winners.

Look for your photos in upcoming issues during the year.

Thank you for reading Big Sky Outdoor News & Adventure, and please support the advertisers that you see in this publication. Let them know you saw their ad in Big Sky Outdoor News & Adventure.

Have a great time in the outdoors.

Rick Haggerty

Editor

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JANUARY 2009

CONTENTS & CONTACTS

Hunting’s Hot Issues in ‘09, Andrew Mckean Clark Fork Riverfront Access Secured, MFWP Slick Tricks For Winter Predators, Brodie Swisher Bowtech “Admiral’ Draws Archers, RMEF Public Comment Sought On Smith River Plan, MFWP Fly Tying Corner, Russell Parks Extreme Ice Fishing In Western MT., Neal M. Cote Statewide Fishing Report, Chris Madsen Missouri, Smith River Trout In Good Shape, MFWP Ice Fishing With The Captain, Mark Ward Dream Drawings: Top Tags For 2009, Jack Ballard Photo Contest Sagebrush News: On Tying Flies, Chuck Robbins Traveler’s Corner, US Diesel Parts Hunting & Conservation News 2009 Ice Fishing Derbies, MFWP “52 Guns In 52 Weeks” Pheasants Forever Rocky Mountain States News, News From Neighboring States Calendar Of Events There Is No Such Thing As 100% Safe Ice, IF&G Wolf Delisting - RMEF, Boone And Crockett Club Gear Review Planning Now For The ‘09 Backcountry, Clint Traver The Chance Of A Lifetime - Supertags, Joe Esparza

Montana’s Hunters and Anglers Have A Significant Impact On The Economy Spending $721 Million a Year Congressional Sportsmenʼs Foundation

ADVERTISING

Please support RICK HAGGERTY the advertisers PHONE (406)370-1368 you see in this AMY HAGGERTY newspaper and PHONE (406) 370-2480 let them know 5625 JEFFERY, LOLO, MT. 59847 you saw their bigskyoutdoornews@yahoo.com advertisement The entire contents is © 2009, all rights reserved. in Big Sky May not be reproduced without prior consent. The material and information printed is from various Outdoor News sources from which there can be no warranty or responsibility by Big Sky Outdoor News & Adventure. & Adventure.

Thank Nor does the printed material necessarily express the views of Big Sky Outdoor News & Adventure. you!

JANUARY 2009

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE •

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JANUARY 2009

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Slick Tricks For Winter Predators BY BRODIE SWISHER

A

s we close the books on another exciting big game hunting season, it’s hard not to look back and reflect on the past season and wish for one more day to pursue wild critters. Regardless of whether you scored big or came home from the hunt empty-handed, ample opportunities await the hunter that is still eager to pursue the prize. For those not yet ready to hang up the rifle or bow, winter predator hunting offers what could be your most exciting hunt yet. This month we look at a few tools and tactics for hunting winter-time predators.

As the winter months set in, coyotes and other predators will be on the prowl more often than at other times of the year. Food sources at this time of year are minimal, so coyotes are vulnerable in their efforts to satisfy their stomachs.

Coyotes that typically hunted at night and at the first and last hour of the day can often be found moving about in search of food at any time of the day throughout the winter months. Key in on local livestock populations such as cattle and sheep and you’ll likely find coyotes hanging downwind of such food sources World Champion coyote caller, Al Morris says that a proper setup is the key to being successful on coyotes.

“You need to learn to find spots that make it easy for a predator to approach your position without seeing or smelling you,” says Morris. “In a perfect world, the sun would be at your back and the wind in your face, but you will seldom find those conditions. Use the terrain to your advantage and remember predators will usually always try to approach from down-wind. If possible, try to have a shooting lane down wind.

Blending In

Blending in to your surroundings in wide open spaces is of the utmost importance, particularly in the winter time. Coyotes will often have your calling location pinpointed as they approach.

Their eyes are scanning the landscape to visually confirm the sound that attracted them. The slightest clue of an unnatural sight or sound will send them on a hasty retreat. The camo duds you wear should match your surroundings as much as possible. Dark camo patterns against white snow are a good way to get picked off by the keen eyes of an approaching predator. Be sure to add snow-camo, at least for your upper body, to your winter hunting gear for best results when hunting in winter’s worst. For a minimal

Few hunting experiences compare to that of a coyote charging hard to the decoy. With proper decoy placement, shots within easy shotgun range – even archery range – are not uncommon. One of my closest encounters with a coyote came as I videoed a buddy killing a coyote charging the decoy at just 8 yards! The key to such success is greatly attributed to a motion-style prey decoy. One of my favorites is the Predator Supreme Decoy from Advanced Decoy Research (DecoyHeart.com). The Predator Supreme is the missing link that appeals to the basic instinct of predators. I’ve found that few predators can resist this decoy once they lay eyes on it. The Predator Supreme will not only get the predators attention, but hold his attention making shot preparation much easier. The decoy also allows the hunter to direct the coyote’s path of entry to a pre-determined area for the kill. They never take their eyes off of it!

One of the latest trends in predator decoys is the use of life-size coyote imitations. Whether it’s a full-body style or a photo-realistic silhouette, these imposters are proving that decoys that play on a predator’s territorial instincts can be a deadly tool of the trade. Flambeau Outdoors (flambeauoutdoors.com) taps the predator hunting market with their new Lone Howler full-body coyote decoy. One unique feature of the Lone Howler is its bungee leg system that allows the decoy to be placed in a sitting or laying position and easily transported between setups. Also, from the folks that bring us the world’s most portable life-sized decoys, the new Montana Decoy Coyote (montanadecoy. com) has looks that are sure to kill and ease of use like no other. The Montana Decoy Coyote is particularly handy when you’re putting some miles on your boots and packing all your gear as you go. (For the sake of safety, hunters should use extreme caution in how and where they set up when hunting with life-like coyote decoys.)

Canine Sounds Coyote decoys are the perfect addition to your setup, particularly when you’re using canine sounds in your calling sequences. I’ve always been one to try and mix things up a bit when it comes to my calling routine. I don’t like to make the same sounds with my calls as the guy before me. You can bet that most predator hunters will be counting on prey sounds to lure their dog. And for that reason, the use of the coyote language has become increasingly popular among avid coyote hunters. Mastering the vocalizations of the coyote would be a benefit to any predator hunter. Howls, barks, yips, and distress whines are just a few of the sounds you may hear coyotes produce.

I like to begin a calling sequence with a long, drawn out howl prior to going into my prey-in-distress sounds. This tells other coyotes that not only is there an intruder coyote in the area, but that the intruder is now stealing their groceries.

Many callers shy away from using barks and howls for fear of scaring coyotes off.

However, you must remember that coyotes are extremely territorial and will seldom tolerate another coyote moving in to their area. On windy days, or any other time I need a little more volume, I use canine distress sounds. These ear-piercing distress cries not only carry a long way, but it’s a call that works on a coyote’s instincts like no other.

There is something extremely exciting about calling a coyote to your stand location. It may come from the fact that when the sounds of the calls leave your mouth you become the hunted. A coyote coming on the run to your calls will leave a lasting impression. There was a time when hunting coyotes in the winter-time was nothing more than a way to pass time between hunting seasons. However, nowadays it seems that hunting coldweather coyotes is a cherished hunting season all its own. Take the time this winter to try and match wits with one of nature’s most elusive critters. I promise it won’t be your last!

Brodie Swisher is a world champion game caller, outdoor writer, and seminar speaker. Check out his website at www.BroOutdoors.com.

JANUARY 2009

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE • 9

Bowtech ‘Admiral’ Draws Archers To Elk Foundation Events RMEF

BowTech’s new top-of-the-line compound bow, the “Admiral,” headlines a bowhunter’s wish list of prizes to be won at select 2009 fundraising events for the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

The fundraisers support the Elk Foundation’s conservation work. The organization now has topped 5.4 million acres of habitat protected or enhanced for elk and other wildlife.

“Our banquets, auctions, raffles and games always offer great prizes like guns, art, outfitted hunts, trips, jewelry and hunting gear. More and more, we’re also offering top archery equipment,” said Steve Decker, director of field programs for RMEF. He added, “For 2009 we’re featuring BowTech’s hot new ‘Admiral’ as part of a flagship progressive raffle.

Hundreds of these bows will be won, and everyone who wins will be entered into a drawing for an awesome Montana elk hunt for two.”

For information about RMEF fundraisers in your area, visit the “Attend an Event” section at www.rmef.org.

The “Admiral” is a high-tech, center-pivot bow with 320 fps speed and

65-80 percent letoff. An RMEF logo is laser-etched into the wood grip. The elk hunt, provided by Dome Mountain Outfitters near Yellowstone, is an archery hunt for two hunters.

Other bowhunting gear to be featured nationally in 2009 includes the Hunter’s Specialties’ Scent-A-Way Scent Elimination System and Carlton’s Calls Elk Calling Kit, a decoy set from Montana Decoy and an archery package from TruGlo containing a Brite-Site Xtreme 5-Pin bowsite, Tru-Block stabilizer, Centra Peep and Tru-Quiver.

RMEF committees often add additional archery gear to local fundraiser lineups.

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Snowy peaks, dark timber basins and grassy meadows. RMEF is leading an elk country initiative that has conserved or enhanced habitat on over 5.4 million acres—a land area equivalent to a swath three miles wide and stretching along the entire Continental Divide from Canada to Mexico. RMEF also works to open, secure and improve public access for hunting, fishing and other recreation. Get involved at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.

NRA Shotgun Coaches Clinic In Missoula The Missoula Trap & Skeet

Club will host a NRA shotgun coaches school on the weekend of January 10-11th.

Successful graduates of the school will receive NRA Level One coach credentials. This credential meets the requirements of the Scholastic Clay Target Program in all three disciplines (Trap, Skeet, and Sporting Clays), as well as the Amateur Trapshooting Association (ATA).

NRA National Coach Trainer Paul McGinnis will conduct the class.

Cost of the course is $135.00.

Pre-registration is mandatory. For more information and to pre-register contact Steve Sautter at 406-543-7432 or at sjs@ssauto.myrf.net.

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JANUARY 2009

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BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE • 11

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Public Comment Sought On Smith River Management Plan - MFWP M

ontana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment on a draft recreation management plan and environmental assessment for Smith River State Park and river corridor, popular among boaters, campers and anglers who apply annually for a permit to float the 59-mile-long stretch of river.

“The draft plan establishes a vision for recreation management of the Smith River, which was designed in part by a citizens advisory committee,” said Chas Van Genderen, FWP’s interim Parks Division administrator. “The environmental assessment evaluates several management alternatives, including making no changes to existing management approaches.”

The EA analyzes predicted impacts on biological, physical, social, economic, cultural, aesthetic and administrative factors, Van Genderen said.

The draft management plan, which would update the current 12-year-old plan, is based in part on the recommendations of the Smith River Citizens Advisory Committee that met 12 times over the past 16 months. The committee included two Smith River landowners, two county commissioners, two river recreationists, two Smith River outfitters, two FWP staffers, and two U.S. Forest Service representatives.

The public is invited to review and comment on the 129-page draft plan and EA through Jan. 30, 2009. Copies of the plan and EA are available online at fwp.mt.gov. Click “Smith River Plan.”

The draft Smith River management plan and EA address several key issues identified by the advisory committee, FWP staff, and Smith River floater-comment logs. The primary issues include floater opportunities, boat-camp selection, user fees, river capacity and social conditions, a pet policy, boat-camp management, human-waste management, and outfitter administration, Van Genderen said.

The draft plan would establish a random selection process for boat camps; retain pit toilets and implement a voluntary human waste pack-out program; prohibit pets on float trips; and establish a minimum age requirement—16 years old—for permit applicants.

FWP will host a series of community open houses in January to discuss the draft plan and EA. The public is invited to show up any time between 5-8 p.m. at the following locations: Jan. 12: Helena - Red Lion Colonial Hotel, 2301 Colonial Dr. Jan. 13: Great Falls - Great Falls Civic Center, 2 Park Dr. S.

Jan. 14: White Sulphur Springs - Senior Citizen Center, 101 1st Ave. SE 2 Park Dr. S Jan. 21: Missoula - Best Western Grant Creek Inn, 5280 Grant Creek Rd. Jan. 22: Billings - Billings Hotel & Convention Center, 1223 Mullowney “We want to invite Montanans and others to help us identify the best practices for managing this beloved recreational resource,” Van Genderen said. “FWP’s goal is to deliver a plan that provides clear management direction for the Smith River and strikes an appropriate balance between public use, and the enjoyment and stewardship of the natural, cultural, and recreational resources that make the Smith River a very special place.”

The deadline to comment is Jan. 30, 2009. Comments may be submitted in writing at the open houses, via e-mail to smithcomments@mt.gov, or online at fwp.mt.gov—click “Smith River Plan.” Mail written comments to: Smith River Plan; Montana FWP Headquarters; P.O. Box 200701; Helena., MT 59620-0701.

Copies of the Smith River management plan and EA are also available from most FWP offices, or by calling 406-444-3750.

Last year, more than 5,800 people, the most ever, applied for about 900 Smith River float permits. The peak of the float season runs from mid-May to early July. On average, it’s a four-day, 59-mile float that begins at Camp Baker, near White Sulphur Springs, and ends at Eden Bridge, near Ulm.

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Fly Tying Corner: The MAngler Steel Wooly Brought To You By The Missoulian Angler Fly Shop

BY RUSSELL PARKS

Y

es, it is steelhead weather out there and the fish are active in the Salmon and Clearwater systems. Due to the response of our November Fly Tying Corner (Green Lantern), we are bringing back another proven steelie pattern for us. This pattern works well in the variety of colors shown, but don’t be afraid to try something different. Have some fun at the vise and put something new in front of the fish, sometimes that is all it takes to get your rod bent. Give us a call for updated reports on river levels and catch rates when you are planning your trip over the hill.

The MAngler Steel Wooly Hook: Daiichi 2441 2-4 Thread: 6/0 Uni Thread Eyes: 5/32 Real Eyes Plus Tail: Marabou, Two Colors Flash: Flashabou Ribbing: Small Silver Body: New Age Chenille Hackle: Saddle Hackle Collar: Simi Seal Dubbing Head: Simi Seal Dubbing

Step 1: Tie eyes in just behind the loop of the hook eye and run thread back to above hook point Step 2: Tie in marabou tail with darker color on bottom, ribbing, hackle (by the tip), and chenille. Run thread up to just before eyes Step 3: Wind chenille up to eyes and tie off Step 4: Tie one strand of flashabou behind eyes on each side, making sure it extends back to the end of the tail Step 5: Palmer hackle forward over flashabou, make one extra turn behind the eyes, and tie off Step 6: Counter wind ribbing through hackle and over the flashabou and tie off Step 7: Form dubbing loop with first color of simi seal, only enough to form a small collar behind eyes (two turns). Put second color of simi seal for head in the same dubbing loop, enough to finish head (four to six turns) Step 8: Run thread forward in front of eyes. Form dubbing loop by spinning the tool then build collar and head. To build the head, make one or two turns behind eyes, figure eight over eyes and tie off just in front of eyes Step 9: Build a small thread base behind eye of hook, whip finish and apply head cement Step 10: Using a dubbing teaser, pick out some of the collar and head dubbing Step 11: Have fun, hold on to your rod, and run downstream if you have to!

JANUARY 2009

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE • 13

Extreme Ice Fishing In Western Montana

BY NEAL M. COTE used to facilitate faster, easier drops without the need for sinkers, and help hold your bait near bottom. There are tons of baits that fall into this category, Swedish Pimples, Kastmasters, and Nils Masters are a few good choices.

PRODUCTIVE JIGGING METHODS Kamikaze perch will sometimes rise 15 feet to hit a descending lure. Perch can see a long way, especially in the clear water of winter. Use this to your advantage. Reel your lure up to the hole, and on a slack line, drop it back down again. Let it fall all the way to the bottom.

This will usually get their attention, ired of looking down a hole causing them to swim from great distances up at Georgetown for a few small to see what’s up. Take the lure away Kokanee? You might find that a different species and some different tactics from them again, back to the surface, and repeat the process. Pay close attention to on a new to you lake or reservoir closer your flasher or underwater camera. If you to home might just be the trick to get you notice a fish that is rising to meet the lure, out of the “same old same old” icefishing hit the brakes, and start slowly pumping blues! I know that Georgetown is a great and swimming the lure upward. The fish place to get your icefishing fix, but what will usually follow and strike. If you see if I told you that there were some other places that you could get to that might just the reverse happening, a fish following the lure down after the lure passes it on the open your eyes to a whole new world of fishing opportunities? Different species of drop, let it sit on the bottom until the fish gets there. You’ll be amazed how many fish that are very eager to bite darn near will slurp it off the bottom. anything you can throw at them? Well if If perch are suspended and you are a little adventurous, have I got feeding on plankton, using a basic, some ideas and places for you! small-hooked but heavy bodied ice jig (maggot-tipped) is a good bet. Use the SPECIES NUMBER 1: YELLOW standard quivering technique, just gently PERCH Places to go: Placid, Seeley, Alva, wiggling the bait with a slight, gradual upward jiggling motion, followed by a Echo, and many other lakes, Crow Creek, NinePipes, Pablo, and Kicking Horse reser- slow, quivering fall. Most of the time perch strike as the bait rises. When perch voirs are just a few. are feeding on insect larvae or worms Yellow perch tend to eat on deep mud flats you can use a similar during daylight hours and maintain an tactic, drop your bait to the bottom, and active lifestyle during the winter, making tap it gently several times to kick up the them perfect for those of us that don’t like bottom. This commotion attracts perch getting on the ice before daylight. who believe other perch have found food Yellow perch are highly and attempt to move in on the action. adaptive and feed on so many different If the perch are found to be types of forage, it’s important to locate feeding on minnows, variations of basic large perch schools with sonar, especially spoon and jig and twister tail strategies if the fish are suspended or schooled over deep flats. Next, it’s important to determine come into play. Try aggressive, pounding actions with standard jigs first. If the fish what forage perch in your waters are targeting, then try to use a presentation that appear to be more aggressive, try a more aggressive jigging minnow-style bait best emulates the preferred forage. If the like Jigging Rapala tipped with maggots. perch are feeding on insect larvae or These baits are more efficient, dropping plankton, small ice jigs tipped with grubs down faster and allowing a more overall or maggots are the best imitators. Dot, aggressive jigging approach.

Rocker, Tiny Tears and Rat Finkies are Should the perch not be striking good picks for this type of bite. If the the previous methods, use of small flash forage base has a good population of spoons and walleye-style snap jigging forage fish, minnow imitating baits should strategies can be effective for triggering be used. Since perch are most likely to be feeding on or near bottom, a small-hooked, strikes. Lower your spoon to the desired depth, snap your rod upward with a sharp, but heavy-bodied jigging spoon should be

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Presented by Nature Vision Snappy Sport Senter Flathead Chapter Walleyes Unlimited Strike Master Vexilar H-T Enterprises sudden twist of the wrist, repeat once or twice, then pause. Strikes usually occur on the pause. These tactics might also get you a few Large mouth or Small mouth Bass depending on where you choose to fish.

DON’T STAY STATIC Sometimes Ice fishing for perch comes in bursts where you take a few fish for a while then drops off to nothing. What do you do?

Do you stay in your current position hoping for things to pick up or do you move. If you decide to move, how far or where to? Being mobile, does not mean you have to give up comfort. Comfort is important, and can keep you fishing longer, which increases your chance for getting in on the best bite of any given day.

Portable shelters set-up in seconds, and are very comfortable, especially when the wind is howling.

Shelters that take longer to erect, keep you from moving as often as you should.

Another key to mobility, is being able to drill holes in a big hurry. Although you can get by with a hand auger, during the early part of the season, it doesn’t take long before a gas powered model is required, to keep you on the move. New light weight models, like the Strikemaster Lazer, and the Eskimo Shark, cut through layers of ice like a laser, and will let you punch a bunch of holes in short order.

Being mobile works for me when fishing becomes slow. Once you have established a good spot, I think drilling more holes in the same area again and again is often a waste of time and effort so I go for the easy route. I either move to a

completely new area or I just leave the fishing for an hour and go and have a snack and start fishing again about a 1/2 hour later. Keep it simple!!!!

When it comes to early season perch action, look to the shallows for the key. Good shallow locations include reefs, bars, and bays. One of the first places to develop safe ice, is in the shallow bays, off of the main lake. They are usually the first place you can get to, and should definitely be checked out. Look for the mouths of bays to concentrate fish, as they are high percentage spots for contacting fish. Start your search as far out as you can safely venture, and begin looking for fish. If you target Nine Pipes or Pablo Reservoirs, remember that these two don’t open for fishing until January 17th .

SPECIES NUMBER 2: LAKE TROUT Places to go: Swan, McGreggor, and Whitefish Lakes Being a completely missed fishery, Lake Trout are probably the biggest bang for the buck that you can get through the ice besides Northern Pike.

Aggressive feeders, Lakers are a lot easier to catch and great eating fish.

Location is fairly important, look for drop offs, rocky edges, and main lake basin areas to hold fish almost all of the time. Lake Trout can also move right up into 5 feet of water or less, so don’t over look any structure. Keep in mind the same tactics that you would employ for Yellow Perch, if you are not catching fish, keep moving! (continued on page 15)

14

• BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

Monta na Fishi ng Report

BY CHRIS MADSEN, SPORTSMAN’S WAREHOUSE MISSOULA (406) 532-9000 e-mail: madwolf2@netzero.net trout, but they can also be notoriously difficult to catch, and I was only barely kidding about the wind. Most successful anglers will concentrate their efforts around the weed beds and points by the boat launch. Successful baits include Swedish Pimples, jigging Rapalas, and rocker jigs. Fishing a partial or whole night crawler or power bait on a tip-up or dead-stick rig is sometimes very productive as well. Try different combinations until you get it right.

Another year in review: With 2008 behind us and 2009 looming on the horizon, it’s time to make the annual New Year’s Resolution. This year I suggest making it one you might keep: to get out and fish more this year. On that note, you will be pleased to hear that the ice fishing season is in full swing, and it looks like a banner year. The belated cold weather of December has given us good, safe ice on nearly all area fisheries, and as usual the early bite has been excellent.

As is typical of the early ice season, fish are still feeding heavily, although we expect the bite to steadily slow down as the oxygen levels beneath the ice drop, and fish become more lethargic. One trick to extending your peak season is to fish lower elevation lakes later in the winter, as later and usually thinner ice may extend the window of aggressively feeding fish, perhaps right through the entire season! Meanwhile, our flowing waters that have extended seasons on them are seeing typical winter fishing. When the weather warms enough that the rivers aren’t frozen bank to bank, anglers will find the ever present whitefish podded up in slower runs. The hearty trout-chasing fly rodder (catch and release, of course) can find good fishing during warmer periods of the day, and sometimes an occasional midge hatch will provide some excitement, although most success will be found drifting a tandem of nymphs.

Whatever you’re preferred method might be, whether sitting on frozen water or standing in freezing water, you’ll have plenty of options.

Here is a rundown of local ice-fishing options.

GEORGETOWN LAKE: The early season on Georgetown has been a mix of good and fair. We finally had fishable ice in early December this year and while the trout fishing has been good the Kokanee fishing has been up and down. Early season at Georgetown usually finds

fish located around the remaining weed beds, and traditionally good spots to try are Piney point, Rainbow Bay, Denton’s point or the Pump House area. There are lots of favorite lures at Georgetown, but Swedish Pimples, Rocker Jigs, Ratsos and Rat Finkees are good choices to try.

Often, size and color will matter more than the specific jig, so carry some in pink, orange, green, white or glow, and tip them with maggots or mealworms for best success.

CLEARWATER LAKES: The Clearwater lakes chain offers a little bit of everything. If trout are your quarry, Alva and Rainy are good choices for nice cutthroats. A small Swedish Pimple or rocker jig with a maggot should keep you in business. Harper’s Lake is also a popular trout hole, it is regularly stocked with 4-10lb brood stock, and these fish provide excellent sport through the ice although they are not the best for eating.

They may not be the prettiest trout you’ll ever see, but five pound trout will allow you to overlook some aesthetic deficiencies. If perch or pike are your quarry, try out Salmon or Seeley. Most anglers will set up a tip-up rigged with a smelt, and fish a second rod with jigging Rapala or larger Air plane jig for pike, or a Tear-drop jig and maggot for perch. Both of these are good bets for spearing pike as well, if that is your game.

BROWNS LAKE: What on earth would make a normally sane person spend all their waking hours staring through a hole on what might very well be the coldest, windiest slab of ice on the face of the earth? How about a five fish limit heavy enough to win the Bass Master Classic.

These are trout we’re talking about, but you get the idea. Brown’s lake has more than it’s fair share of enormous

Reservation Lakes: Just a short drive north of town there are numerous lakes that offer excellent opportunities for the ice fishing angler. Ninepipes, Kicking Horse, Pablo and Crow Reservoirs are a few of the waters with good fishing.

Ninepipes probably has the best ice fishing for bass in our area; just make sure you wait until after waterfowl season to fish on this one. Winter probably gives one of the best chances for numerous bass in the five plus pound range. Jigging Kastmasters, Swedish Pimples or Jigging Raps are sure to get you some looks from these hard fighting predators. The pike in Crow can be caught with smelt on a tip-up or spoons tipped with cut-bait.

Some of these reservoirs also have good populations of perch. Small Swedish Pimples or a basic teardrop jig are good bets and small Jigging Raps can be effective. Make sure you have them tipped with a maggot.

Area Rivers: For those out there who would prefer not to have to drill a hole to go fishing, never fear. Local rivers will still offer up some good fishing for trout and whitefish if conditions permit. Any time we see a few days of above-freezing temperatures, grab your favorite nymphing stick and your neoprene waders and head out to the Clark Fork, Bitterroot or Rock Creek.

Most any tandem of nymphs will suffice, but personal favorites include San Juan worms, glo bugs, Copper Johns and Lightning Bugs. Keep your drifts slow and tight to the bottom. If you aren’t too snooty a trout fanatic, whitefish pod up in slower runs and bite readily during the winter, and are dynamite in the smoker. What whitefish may lack in aesthetic beauty, they more than make up for smoked, and served with cheese and crackers. A number of nymphs will work but they seem to have an affinity for the color chartreuse and anything that sparkles. Most days the bite will last for an hour or two during the warmest part of the day, giving you plenty of time for that much needed second cup of coffee.

Have a safe and happy new year, and as I stated at the beginning, resolve to spend more time fishing this year.

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1/27

Meet outdoors personality, Jim Shockey. Jim will be on hand to sign autographs and swap stories.

Intro. To Snowshoeing 1:00 - Finished

1/31

Join us as we explore the backcountry sport of snowshoeing. We will cover equipment selection, basic techniques, and great local hikes you can enjoy. Please dress for the weather.

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HELENA

Metallic Cartridge Reloading 2PM - Finished

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Learn the basics of reloading metallic cartridges.

Come and learn about the four models of the great Honda generators that we carry. We will discuss the advantages of owning this great product.

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MISSOULA

Predator Hunting 1:00 - 2:30

1/17

Beginning Fly Tying

1/17

Brian Wise of Predator Control Services will be putting on a free seminar with topics to including calling,set up, camo and gear etc.

Four (4) consecutive Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30p - 7:00p.

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JANUARY 2009

Extreme Ice Fishing in Western Montana (continued from page 13)

Ice fishing equipment for lake trout is straight forward. You will need a good ice fishing rod with at least 10 pound test that can handle larger lures. Super line like TUFF line and Fire Line that has very little stretch is a good choice. Don’t forget a 10 to 20 lb. mono or fluorocarbon leader for some shock absorption and you’re set.

A variety of buck tail jigs sized from 1/2 to 2 oz. in Glow white, Glow green, white, and bright yellow always seems to work best. Tubes, jigging spoons, large twister tails, and larger swim baits are also good to have along. Make sure you have some variety with you. Tipping them with cut bait will also up the odds in your favor.

Lake trout typically see their prey much better above them than below. Generally, pounding your jig off of the bottom of the lake floor may prove to be a fish less affair. An aggressive Lake Trout will rise to intercept your lure from as much as 40 feet below. This is the aggressive action you are looking for. But don’t limit yourself to just one depth in the water column. There are times when lake trout will be on the bottom feeding on deadbait.

You don’t want to miss these fish. If you head up to Swan Lake, you will also attract another fish that can only be kept In two places in Montana, Bull Trout!

While fishing, start with your jig just off of the bottom. Work this depth for a few minutes. If you don’t get hit, bring it up ten or fifteen feet and work that depth for a short period. Keep bring the jig up to a shallower depth and work that area for a few jigs. Continue this pattern and bam!

Just remember how many cranks of the reel off the bottom you were when the fish hit, and you will have the start of that days pattern. This way you will scan the whole water column and understand where the fish are feeding. I have caught Lake Trout at the 10 foot depth while fishing in 70 feet of water, so keep an open mind. Often Lakers will hit your jig while it descends, so be prepared. You may have one on before you know it. They can grow to be well into the 20 pound range and make for an unbelievable battle through the ice. If you are prepared and take your time, you could land the fish of a lifetime.

Be Safe!!!

As with all icefishing, be very careful fishing new water. Do as much research on the body of water as you can, call local stores and shops to get any information on ice conditions. Always tell someone where you will be going, and if the ice looks questionable, don’t even chance it. With the cold spell that is hitting us right now, there should be good ice just about everywhere. So, If you were looking for a new challenge, check out these new targets and try something new that might just net you the fish of a lifetime and not the “same old same old!”

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE • 15

Missouri, Smith River Trout in Good Shape MFWP

S

pring snow and early summer rains helped contribute to larger trout in the Missouri and more, smaller rainbows in the Smith, says a state fisheries biologist.

“Those factors go a long way to sustaining a quality trout fishery,” says Grant Grisak, Fish, Wildlife and Parks fisheries biologist.

Near the town of Craig, Grisak estimates 2,897 rainbow trout per mile; slightly less than the long-term average of 2,917. Those are fish 10 inches long and larger.

The spring estimate of brown trout in that part of the river was 1,126 per mile, which is twice the long-term average, and the fourth highest on record.

Downstream near Pelican Point, Grisak estimates 1,680 rainbows and 490 browns per mile.

“The 2008 estimates in the Pelican Point section were higher for both species than the long-term average by 150-200 fish per mile,” Grisak says.

For anglers, good news was reflected in the size of the fish.

“The data showed 63 percent of the rainbows and 77 percent of the browns were 16 inches or larger in the Craig section,” Grisak says.

In the Pelican Point section, 45 percent of the rainbows and 52 percent of the brown trout were 16 inches or larger.

Anglers reported better than normal dry fly fishing on the Missouri this year, Grisak says. That’s likely do to a normal water flow year not seen in the past nine years.

“Undoubtedly,” Grisak says, “the normal water flow rejuvenated important insect habitat, which resulted in frequent and abundant fly hatches throughout the summer.”

In the Smith River, trout numbers were down from long-term averages, but Grisak and his crew counted more smaller fish.

“This year we saw a larger number of 8- to 10-inch rainbows during the estimate, which is encouraging for the future,” he says. “ Similar to last year we observed a high number of 6- to 8-inch rainbows this year.”

Estimates on the Smith were made in the Eagle Creek section. There, rainbow trout greater than 8 inches were estimated at 363 per mile. That’s consistent with a short-term trend, but below the long term average of 527.

Brown trout were estimated at 140 per mile, about half the long-term average but within the range of estimates.

16

• BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

Ice Fishing With The Captain

JANUARY 2009

The “HOT SPOT” PRESENTED BY

Mark Ward

I

ce fishing is a great way for a family to spend a winter day in the outdoors.

Many anglers bring their kids along and catching fish on some of these trips is not the priority.

Winter ice and snow means good sledding, ice skating and even cookouts on the frozen surface of Montana’s lakes.

And, you just might catch some fish, too.

Montana offers some very good ice fishing and most of the time, the toughest part is deciding where to go.

There are really two kinds of methods of ice fishing and you can separate the two methods by talking about most lakes west of the mountains and those east of the mountains.

Western Montana lake anglers are content to sit on a bucket or in a portable icehouse and jig. For the most part, they are going after trout, perch, or salmon. Using glow hooks tipped with either maggots or corn seems to be the most popular choices.

This year, look for a number of lakes both north and south of Missoula to be popular spots.

Bitterroot Lake, just west of Kalispell, has a reputation for producing 16-18 inch kokanees. Flathead Lake ice fishing is best in the bays. The few boat anglers that brave Flathead for winter lake fishing can do also well for lake trout.

The water level goes down in the winter but you can still use the Blue Bay boat ramp to put your boat in the water.

The east bay for perch ice fishing seems to be the best but don’t look for it to ice over until late January.

Lake Mary Ronan is also a great lake to ice fish for perch and sometimes salmon. Crow Reservoir can also be good for trout and small mouth bass. For current fishing and ice conditions on these lakes call Dick Zimmer 406-675-0068.

Northern Pike anglers will head to Salmon Lake fishing tip-ups with smelt.

Seeley Lake has produced pike but the larger ones have seemed to be taken by anglers in spear huts.

Browns Lake can also be a good spot to ice fish for trout right after the first ice is on. Last year, the trout bite continued well into January.

And Georgetown Lake is always a good bet for ice anglers. It ices up early and has good ice most of the winter.

Anglers like to jig with glow hooks tipped with maggots. Small kokanees and pretty good size trout usually take advantage of their offerings through the ice.

East of the mountains, if you want to jig fish, I would recommend heading over to Canyon Ferry Lake or the Causeway on Hauser Reservoir. Both lakes do a good job of producing perch for ice anglers.

I would fish the south end by the Silos on Canyon Ferry Lake or go anywhere up the Causeway on Hauser for perch. You might also luck out and get into a good walleye bite when you’re fishing the Causeway on Hauser.

Walleye fishing is more of a challenge on Canyon Ferry Lake, but some local anglers have had success when they hit it just right. The Helena Valley Regulating Reservoir, next to Hauser Lake, has also produced some good bites through the winter for kokanee salmon.

For up to date information on ice and fishing call Todd at Bob Wards in Helena.

Tip-up anglers can have their choice of fishing Lake Frances by Valier, Tiber Dam north of Great Falls, Nelson Reservoir east of Malta and of course Fort Peck Reservoir. All these lakes offer good northern pike, walleye, and perch fishing.

If you want to catch ling then Fort Peck Reservoir would be your best bet. In all the lakes with exception of Lake Frances you can use live minnows. Plus all the lakes allow you to fish with six unattended set lines per angler. A popular way to fish is to set up a mile or two long trap-line with the tip-ups.

Anglers who ice fish this way put each line in a different depth of water at first then move most of their tip-ups to the depth that seems to be producing the best results.

As always use extreme caution when you are ice fishing as ice conditions can change very quickly.

If you have any tips or information on ice fishing through the winter, please e-mail me at captain@montanaoutdoor.com and we’ll share them so everyone can enjoy a good time out on the winter ice.

Mark Ward is known as the Captain of the Montana Outdoor Radio Show heard statewide every Saturday from 6am - 8am. Log onto www.montanaoutdoor.com to find a radio station in your area. You can also read his weekly column in the Thursday Missoulian Outdoor section.

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS, & THE MONTANA OUTDOOR RADIO SHOW “Where to go, what to take, maps, and more.”

THIS MONTH - ICE FISHING AT NELSON RESERVOIR

Nelson Reservoir is a Bureau of Reclamation area located in northeast Montana. At an elevation of 2,500 feet, the recreation area encompasses 288 acres. A campground is available offering several tent and trailer camping spots and the basic facilities including restrooms and drinking water. Groceries and a food service are available within one mile.

Nelson Reservoir, a 4,000 acres body of water, is ranked the number one walleye spot in the state. Stocked with walleye, yellow perch, and northern pike, it produces record class fish of these species. A state record, 14 pound walleye, and a possible state record northern, have all come from this reservoir. Nelson Reservoir is a popular ice-fishing spot, with spearing, angling, and tip-ups being the most popular methods. Road paved to boat ramps.

Ice Fishing Regulations: Lakes, Reservoirs, Rivers and Streams • 6 lines with 2 hooks per line through the ice. When a line is used through the ice, the angler need not be in immediate control but must be in the vicinity and in visual contact with the line unless they are used as setlines. See regulations for Setlines Size of Hole • There is no size limit for a hole used for ice fishing or with a spear.

Shelters • Shelter definition/use: Any hut or enclosure constructed of any material, except ice or snow, for the purpose of ice fishing.

• It is illegal to use any ice fishing shelter not conforming to the following rules.

• Shelter identification: Identification must be painted on or otherwise affixed to all unattended shelters in legible, 2-inch letters plainly visible at a distance of 100 feet. Identification must include the owner’s name and address, name and phone number, or 9/10-digit ALS number.

• Inspection: Each closed shelter shall have a door that an officer may readily open from the outside for inspection when it is occupied.

• Waste and rubbish disposal: Owners and occupants of shelters are required to keep their shelters (and the area immediately around them) free from rubbish and trash. Anglers must remove waste materials before they leave for the day.

• Shelter removal after the season: The owner of an ice fishing shelter shall remove it from the ice before it becomes irretrievable at the end of the season, or within five days from receipt of notification from FWP to remove the shelter.

Contact: Bureau of Reclamation Billings, MT. Phone: 406-654-1440 www.usbr.gov/gp/recreation/index.cfm E-mail: shuhtala@gp.usbr.gov Directions: Located 17 miles east of Malta on US Highway 2, milepost 488, then 2 miles north on county road.

WINNERS OF QUALITY SUPPLY CARHARTT CONTEST: Butte: Roger Huerta Hamilton: Janet Beer Dillon: Phyllis Burwell Missoula: Alysa Kelly

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BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE • 17

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18

• BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

JANUARY 2009

Fort Peck Reservoir is tough to beat.

During the season, most of the rams will be found in bachelor bands of a half-dozen or more animals, although the occasional mature ram will be on his own or in the company of just a few buddies.

PHOTO COURTESY JACK BALLARD

Dream Drawings: Top Tags For 2009 BY JACK BALLARD

H

ard-core trophy hunters plan diligently and expend plenty of their own sweat to create success, but even the most consistent among them readily confess that luck plays an irrefutable role in tagging an exceptional animal. Discovering the haunts of a mule deer whose antlers span a greater width than a major leaguer’s bat, spying a gnarly old whitetail whose senses are momentarily clouded by the fog of the rut or catching a behemoth bull at the edge of a snowy park on the last evening of a week-long hunt all involve an element of good fortune.

However, dedication and fortuitous circumstances in the field aren’t enough to get a shot at an outstanding specimen of several species in numerous hunting districts in the Treasure State. Without question, the best odds of dropping a once-in-a-lifetime animal are reserved for those whose fortune in the field is only surpassed by their luck in the annual drawing that sometimes issues a single tag to more than 200 applicants. If you can successfully pull a tag for one of the species in any of the following districts, you’re on your way to a hunt for an unforgettable animal. Feeling lucky?

ANTELOPE DISTRICT 700 - Trophy antelope can crop up anywhere in good habitat. Horn growth on antelope is very dependent on the nutrition available to bucks in the

fall, winter and spring when their horns are growing. Early fall rains often mean a green-up before winter, giving bucks a nutritional boost before the first snows. Mild wintering conditions mean nutrients are available for horn growth as well as survival.

That said, certain areas seem to kick out more than their fair share of long-horned, heavy bucks. Such is the case with Rosebud County. Of the top Boone & Crockett entries from the Treasure State, most have come from this county in the east-central portion of the state. To hunt here you’ll need a district 700 tag. If you can’t pull that as a resident hunter, you’re luck is truly pitiful -- although I have the rare distinction of failing on a first-choice application.

BIGHORN SHEEP DISTRICT 622 - Choosing a district to apply for an either-sex bighorn sheep tag is one of my annual actions of seeming futility, a ritual shared by most resident hunters.

However, a few fortunate folks pull the tags each season, making it reasonable to think through your decision on where to apply even though it’s not wise to hold your breath while waiting to be drawn.

For abundant public access, quality rams and relatively numerous sheep concentrated in an area that’s easy to traverse on foot or horseback, District 622 on the north side of the

MOUNTAIN GOAT

DISTRICT 323 - Peruse the Boone & Crockett record book for mountain goats from Montana and the most salient conclusion that comes from such research is the fact that no single area dominates the entries.

Based on this factor, folks in search of ELK a trophy goat can look many places.

However, the districts bordering DISTRICT 632 - Archery Yellowstone National Park have hunters get the first crack at the eyeexcellent goat habitat and most offer popping elk that track the fractured reasonably good drawing odds for landscape along the north side of abundant tags.

Lewis and Clark’s Missouri River, Of these, district 323 is one now Fort Peck Reservoir. But even of the larger units. Goats are found on with an archery tag in snug in the pocket of pants laundered in sagebrush the high, remote ridges and basins. It leaves and dried with a fabric softener takes age for a billy to reach trophy of elk urine, these long-tined monsters proportions and the robust goat population and challenging access are tough to approach and even gives a good number of the males time tougher to seduce with a bugle or to grow the long, heavy horns needed cow-call. However, come the fourth Sunday in October, it’s much easier to to achieve a high score by Boone & Crockett standards. get within rifle range. Unfortunately, No matter where they hunt, it’s not so simple to pull the either-sex tag required to hunt a bull during rifle the most consistent mistake made by goat hunters is failing to be selective. season.

Many shoot nannies, as the horns If you cash in two decades of of the females are often as long or luck and draw this tag, don’t get too longer than the males. However, in itchy on the trigger. To the untrained eye, a fine, but not exceptional 6-point comparison to a mature billy, the horns of a nanny are very thin. If bull may appear as a monster. Each you’re really looking for a trophy, aim year hasty hunters drop a big bull in this hunt only to discover that he’s not for a big-bodied goat whose horns appear stout and close together at among the monsters. Give yourself the bases, with length that is close to enough time to look over a number of stags before pulling the trigger and twice that of his ears. punching your tag.

MOOSE DISTRICT 314 - The rule of thumb for trophy moose in Montana is simple. The closer you get to Yellowstone National Park, the better the quality of bulls. However, the state’s burgeoning wolf population has not been kind to our largest ungulate.

In one drainage I’ve hunted frequently for deer, moose used to be abundant.

Then one season we discovered wolf tracks in the area. Now it’s literally more common to see wolf tracks than moose tracks.

That said, there are still some outstanding bulls in the Greater Yellowstone region. District 314 is one of a number of hunting districts that border Yellowstone and among the larger units. Luck plays a big role in drawing a moose tag and still seems to be a critical element in the field. Plan to invest a lot of time if you’re looking for an exceptional bull. Fellow hunters on the trail of elk probably won’t tell you where they located a big wapiti, but they may share with you the sighting of a bull moose. Cover lots of ground and keep your ears open.

MULE DEER

DISTRICT 270 - To put the reputation of this mule deer hunting district in perspective, it’s tougher to pull an antlered buck tag in District 270 than it is to nab an either-sex elk tag in the Missouri Breaks. Located on the east side of the Bitteroot River south of Hamilton in the far corner of southwestern Montana, this unit boasts the genetics and habitat to produce big bucks. Day in and day out, this district represents the best odds in the state of dropping a muley that qualifies for the Boone & Crockett record book.

For those fortunate enough to pull the tag, look for bachelor bands of bucks at high elevations early in the season. Once the rut shifts into overdrive in the week before Thanksgiving, focus on the habitat that holds the doe herds.

Jack Ballard, author and photographer, publishes magazine articles and photos pertaining to camping, cross-country skiing, canoeing, hiking, hunting, fishing, children’s conservation education and the natural history of wildlife. In the past ten years his articles and/or photos have appeared in over 25 different regional and national magazines.

JANUARY 2009

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE • 19

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20

• BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

2008 Photo Contest

Cody Kirschenheiter, Missoula, MT. “Nice Whitetail Buck.”

Joe Blaseg, Billings, MT. “Shot on public land, last day of the season in Eastern Montana.”

Josh Davy “Mule Deer, Sweetgrass Hills, MT.”

Jami Sindelar, Missoula, MT. 1st “Monster” Buck - 24” outside spread

Zack, Age 14, Superior, MT. “Nice Whitetail 4x4 buck.”

Tony Fassio “Great Mule Deer Buck”

Doug Dick, Harrisville, PA. “Big Buck taken near Roscoe, MT.”

Lauren, Age 12, Missoula, MT. “1st year hunting, 1st kill, 1 shot.”

Jay Smith “Montana Pronghorn Antelope”

Thank you to all who entered our photo contest. All of the photos entered were great!

Look for your photo in future issues. Thanks to our sponsors - Leupold & Trader Bros.

JANUARY 2009

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE • 21

Winner’s Of 2008 Photo Contest 1st Place Winner

Robert Montgomery Bighorn Sheep Winner of A Pair of Leupold Gold Ring HD 10x42 Binoculars From Leupold

2nd Place Winner Chad Krahel Mule Deer Winner of ARX-11 Digital Rangefinder From Trader Bros.

3rd Place Winner Collin Griffiths

Mule Deer Winner of A VX-II 3-9x40mm Matte Long Range Duplex from Leupold

22

• BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

JANUARY 2009

Sagebrush News: On Tying Flies

BY CHUCK ROBBINS

B

Jennifer Marshall of Helena with monster Rainbow Trout. “28” and fat, old fish, almost looked like a Brown Trout it was so old...it was fun watching her fight and land this one for what seemed a half hour”

ack in the dark ages armed with nothing more than a will to do so and a “Master Guide” fly tying kit from Herter’s I decided to become a fly-tier. For the uninitiated, Herter’s was the Cabela’s of the 1950s sort of.

The “kit” contained a conglomeration of materials—a crude vice, dull scissors, assorted hooks, head cement, tying thread, feathers, hair, tinsels, yarns and what not—mostly useless for the sort I had in mind—but of course I didn’t know that then. It also contained a small booklet “George Herter’s Master Guide to Tying Your Own Fishing Flies,” or something along those lines? (Forgive me but some of the operation’s finer details have been lost over time.)

Anyway I ripped open the box, clamped the vice to the kitchen table, opened the booklet and an hour or so later, dropped the newly minted creation in Dad’s outstretched palm. Hoping for approval instead he wiped his eyes, took a closer look and asked, “What the heck is it son, looks like a crippled bird or... or something?” Injured, I yanked it back, stalked to the kitchen, cut it apart and started over. Alas the second go was pretty much the same so I kept it to myself.

In those days there were no fly shops, very few books and certainly no videos to show the way; even finding a genuine flytier took some doing. But apparently Dad felt bad because a few weeks later he set up a date to meet the guy who tied all the flies for the local hardware store. He took me under his wing, taught me the many little tricks of the trade and in no time had me cranking out passable, if not masterful, trout flies.

Hooked as it were, what started out more idle curiosity than anything in a few short years grew into an irrational distraction than manifested itself into creating trout flies even at the expense of actually fishing them. In other words should you decide to partake my advice is watch what you wish for.

Anyway I was luckier than some. Over time my obsession abated to the point that while I still tie mostly I do so only in a panic...Like plan to fish the lake tomorrow crank out a half-dozen Sheep Creeks the night before and call her good to go. Instead of boo coup fly boxes crammed with every pattern known to mankind I’m now a raging minimalist...A couple Adams, an Elk-hair or two, perhaps a Royal Wulff, a black Wooly Bugger, a Pheasant-tail and a couple Hare’s ear nymphs are about it.

These days of course anyone interested in getting started in the tying game has way more options: Quality tools and materials are readily available both locally and through mail order and the internet. Many fly shops offer classes and serve as reliable sources for advice, books, CDs, DVDs, you name it. Unlike the dark ages these days a few mouse clicks will get you step by step instructions for any one of the many thousands of patterns out there.

Let me tell you sometime about the material collection.

Chuck is a freelance writer/photographer and fly-fishing guide.

Author of four books, you can check out his latest Great Places Montana at chuckngalerobbins.com

JANUARY 2009

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE • 23

Traveler’s Corner: Brite Box Improves Output & Coverage Of Vehicle Headlights W

ith the days getting shorter and the nights longer and hunting season upon us, you want vehicle lighting you can depend on.

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Brite Box illuminates the low beams (and fog lights with Fog Light Control models) when the high beams are activated which allows 100% of the lighting potential of the vehicle to be utilized. Brite Box provides an even carpet of light that stretches from near to far. Safety and comfort are improved because the driver can now see a larger portion of the road. The safety Low beams / fog lights shut OFF benefits and circuitry of Brite Box when high beams are on. Note poor has been proven in millions of illumination directly in front of and miles of over the road testing, and to sides of vehicle. is used by law enforcement and transportation companies.

Brite Box features easy plug in installation (in most All vehicle headlights vehicles) and can usually be have two distinct beam patterns: installed in 30 minutes or less. low beam for close range There are Brite Box models illumination, and high beam for available to fit most domestic cars, long range illumination. In most light trucks, and sport utility vehicles, when the high beams vehicles (SUV’s) manufactured are activated, the low beams shut from 1976 - 2008. off. The resulting choice of “near” vs. “far” illumination compromises safety and comfort because at a maximum, only 54% of the vehicle’s lighting potential is being used at any given time. Installing brighter headlight bulbs does little to help because the coverage of the AFTER BRITE BOX: Low beams / headlights is still compromised. fog lights stay ON when high beams Additionally, if your vehicle has are on. Note increase in both factory installed fog lights, they Available at Gomer’s-USDIESELPARTS too shut off when high beams are 2400 Palmer Missoula, MT. 59808 engaged. How does one solve this (406) 728-7620 or 1-800-823-4444. problem?

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24

• BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

JANUARY 2009

Hunting And Conservation News Hunting & Conservation News Proudly Sponsored By

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Changes Proposed For General Elk Rifle Hunting In Southwest Montana Hunting Districts 360 And 362 - MFWP MFWPs is seeking public comment on proposed adjustments to the 2009 General Elk Rifle Season Structure in Hunting Districts 360 and 362.

The proposal includes adjustments to general season licenses and permits adopted as tentative by the FWP Commission at its December 2008 meeting.

Specifically, FWP proposes to offer brow-tined bull/antlerless hunting with youth opportunity valid for either-sex and unlimited over-thecounter A9/B12 antlerless elk licenses (additional elk license). The change also includes eliminating the Madison Special Management Area (including the antlerless-only permits for that area) and the mandatory hunter orientation. The Airport Weapons Restriction Area would remain in place.

The deadline for submitting comments is Jan. 23, 2009, Comments should be sent to: MFWP Wildlife Division. Attn: Public Comment, PO Box 200701, Helena MT 59620.

Electronic comments can be made by visiting the Hunting Page on FWP’s Web site and clicking on “Opportunity for Public Comment” under Public Notices.

Elk Foundation Brings Brucellosis Stakeholders To The Table - RMEF Leaders from both the wildlife and livestock camps see two main obstacles to solving the brucellosis problem in the Yellowstone area. The first is simply getting everyone to the table to work collaboratively. Second, no one agency or person is in charge.

Overcoming these barriers was the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation’s primary goal in hosting and facilitating the recent Greater Yellowstone Area Brucellosis Workshop.

The educational workshop, held in Billings, Mont., Dec. 8-9, brought together representatives from state and federal wildlife and agricultural agencies, Montana Stockgrowers Association, Montana Cattlemen’s Association, Idaho Cattle Association, Wyoming Stock Growers Association, Yellowstone National Park, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and others.

“I would like to commend the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation for putting all of this together. The gathering of stakeholders we have here is monumental in terms of geography and the constituencies represented,” said Errol Rice, executive vice president of the Montana Stockgrowers Association.

Presenters at the workshop offered their latest data on brucellosis, or Bang’s disease, which originally found its way to the greater Yellowstone ecosystem via infected livestock. Today, the area’s elk and bison are the nation’s last known reservoirs of the contagious disease.

Transmission is possible wherever these species share space or co-mingle with cattle. Infected animals commonly abort fetuses and display arthritic symptoms. When livestock tests positive for brucellosis, a litany of regulations, restrictions and mandated control measures prove costly for beef producers within the affected state.

Solving this difficult problem has broad economic and social implications across the three states within the greater Yellowstone region.

Most workshop participants agreed overarching policy and direction is needed at both state and federal levels.

“The Elk Foundation wants, and we believe healthy habitat can support, a coexistence of wildlife and livestock. There’s no easy way to achieve that, but we’re hopeful that the workshop will revitalize the spirit of cooperation needed to reach solutions,” said Jack Blackwell, vice president of lands and conservation for RMEF. Minutes from the workshop are being formally drafted for approval by attendees. Next steps will include identifying an entity to take the lead. Most workshop participants favored reviving strong leadership within the dormant Greater Yellowstone Interagency Brucellosis Committee.

Missoula Bowhunter Education Classes Set To Begin In January - MFWP The Missoula 2009 bowhunter education class

schedule has been set, and prospective students can begin registering for several classes on Monday, Jan. 5.

The January and February class schedule includes four classes offered on Saturdays from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. at the Missoula Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) office, 3201 Spurgin Road.

Students can elect to take a class Jan. 24, Jan. 31, Feb. 7, or Feb. 21.

Students in all of these classes must also complete a half-day field course on Saturday, March 7.

To register for a Jan. or Feb. class, stop by the Missoula FWP office during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 8a.m.-5p.m., beginning Jan. 5.

Classes are limited to 35 students, and registration is open until the class fills. A parent or guardian must accompany students under 18 to register.

Six additional Missoula classes will be held from March through May. Bowhunter education courses will also be offered in many other west-central Montana communities beginning in March, but the class dates have not been set at this time.

For a complete listing of the west-central Montana bowhunter education classes, visit the online class schedule or call the Missoula FWP office at 406-542-5500.

By state law, all first time bowhunters must complete a bowhunter education course in order to purchase a bow and arrow license. Bowhunters born after January 1, 1985 must also show proof of completing a hunter education program.

JANUARY 2009

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE • 25

Hunting And Conservation News Man Pleads Guilty To Shooting Grizzly Bear Near Noxon MFWP

R

andall Sharp of Noxon appeared in court in Sanders County on December 8th before Justice of the Peace Donald M. Stine and pled guilty to the charge of hunting during a closed season. In October, Sharp was cited for shooting and killing what he thought was a black bear that he said was getting into his trash. The bear turned out to be a grizzly bear. The charge was for shooting a grizzly bear when no hunting season is in place. Sharp did not possess a black bear license at the time.

On October 20, Sharp called the Sanders County Sheriff Dispatch to report that he shot and killed a bear behind his house and asked that Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks contact him. FWP Warden Sergeant Jon Obst was notified by Sanders County Dispatch. Obst went to Sharp’s residence that day. Sharp showed Obst the bear, and told him that he shot the bear when it returned to get into his trash. When Sharp saw that the bear wore a collar and appeared to be a grizzly, he had called the sheriff’s dispatch.

Obst identified the bear as a grizzly and removed the bear that night from the residence. After an investigation, Sharp was cited on October 28 for a single misdemeanor charge in Sanders County Justice Court. This single charge was based on his diligent efforts to contact FWP officials by phone and through the sheriff’s office to report what had just happened and his acceptance of responsibility for his actions.

In his recommendation to the Judge, FWP Warden Jon Obst noted that Sharp was not cited for a felony because he did not purposely and knowingly shoot a grizzly bear, and because Sharp immediately reported the incident. Obst added that Sharp was honest and forthright with his answers during the investigation and did not try to make any excuses for his actions.

Justice of the Peace Donald M. Strine fined Sharp $535 and ordered him to pay $2,000 in restitution. Sharp will also have to attend a remedial hunter education class and a youth hunter education class and speak to the students about target identification. Sharp received a sentence of 60 days in jail, suspended on condition that he meets the other requirements. His hunting privileges are also suspended until the requirements are met.

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Top 5 Signs that Your Elk Hunting Area Needs Habitat Help - RMEF Elk season is over, 3. Sick Forests—Years of suppressing forest thinning, construction of guzzlers, leaving you with another autumn’s wildfire has led to dense, choked timber riparian restorations, land acquisitions, worth of memories. While you’re reminiscing, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation asks you to think about the country where you hunted, how it’s changed through the years and how it’s likely to change in the future.

Here are the Elk Foundation’s Top 5 signs that your elk hunting area may need serious habitat stewardship: 1. Habitat Fragmentation—New subdivisions and ranchettes are eliminating and cutting off key habitat, particularly in winter range and migration corridors. Increased human activity and vehicular traffic compound impacts to elk.

2. Weeds Amok—Knapweed, yellow starthistle, leafy spurge and other invasive weeds are consuming the West. These noxious exotics kill or displace native forage that elk and other species depend on for grazing.

piled high with deadfall. These conditions lead to massive beetle infestations, threaten catastrophic wildfire and offer little benefit, other than escape cover, for elk. Yet overgrown forests are becoming more rule than exception.

4. Vanishing Meadows & Aspen Stands— Fire suppression has also allowed pinion, juniper, fir and other evergreens to overtake meadows and aspen stands. The resulting shade shrivels understory plants, cutting available forage for elk by up to 90 percent.

5. Lack of Water—Many traditional watering holes are drying up earlier and earlier in the year. Elk are forced to abandon historic ranges and follow the water to survive.

Since launching nearly 25 years ago, the Elk Foundation has helped address these and other habitat issues on over 5.4 million acres. Rallying a legion of partners, RMEF’s annual projects include weed treatments, prescribed burns,

conservation easements and more.

Sample projects for your state are listed at the Elk Foundation Web site: www.rmef.org. Click on “Conservation” and then “Where We Conserve.”

“Members, volunteers and supporters of the Elk Foundation are making a difference but there is still much work to do,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “We invite everyone who cares about elk, elk country and elk hunting to join us.”

For membership information, visit www.rmef.org or call 800-CALL-ELK.

26

• BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

JANUARY 2009

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Fishing Contests Approved For 2009 Ice Fishing Derbies - MFWP Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has approved the following ice fishing contests for winter 2009. Participants must comply with state fishing regulations, including daily and possession limits.

FINAL 2009 ICE FISHING DERBIES

NORTHWESTERN MONTANA, REGION 1 January 3, 2009 - Perch Assault held on Smith Lake January 17-18, 2009 - Fisher River Valley Winter Fishing Derby held on Lower, Middle & Upper Thompson Lakes, Crystal Lake, and Loon Lake January 24, 2009 - Perch Assault Masters Invitational held on Church Slough - Flathead River February 1-28, 2009 - 6th Annual Perch Pounder held on all of Region 1 waters February 7-8, 2009 - McGregor Lake Resort Annual Fishing Derby held on McGregor Lake February 14, 2009 - Snappy Sport Senter 9th Annual Lake Mary Ronan Derby held on Lake Mary Ronan February 21, 2009 - Perch Assault held on Middle Thompson Lake February 23, 2009 - Ryan Wagner Memorial Scholarship Ice Fishing Derby held on Murphy Lake February 28, 2009 - Canyon Kids Christmas Fund Fishing Derby held on Lion Lake March 7, 2009 - Perch Assault held on Lake Mary Ronan March 8, 2009 - 6th Annual Lower Stillwater Lake Ice Fishing Derby held on Lower Stillwater Lake SOUTHWESTERN MONTANA, REGION 2 January 17-18, 2009 - Pike on Ice held on Seeley Lake & Salmon Lake SOUTH CENTRAL MONTANA, REGION 3 January 24, 2009 - Stan Shafer Memorial Ice Fishing Derby held on Clark Canyon Reservoir NORTH CENTRAL MONTANA, REGION 4 January 17, 2009 - 4th Annual Perch Derby held on East Fork Reservoir January 18, 2009 - 1st Annual Casino Creek Perch Derby held on Casino Creek Reservoir January 25, 2009 - Utica Rod and Gun Club and Oxen Yoke Inn Fishing Derby held on Ackley Lake January 25-26, 2009 - Lions Perch Derby held on Canyon Ferry Reservoir January 31, 2009 - Western Bar Ice Fishing Derby held on Willow Creek Reservoir February 14, 2009 - Valier Volunteer Fire Department Fishing Derby held on Lake Frances February 15, 2009 - V.F.W. Ice Fishing Derby held on Newlan Reservoir NORTHEASTERN MONTANA, REGION 6 January 3, 2009 - 2nd Annual Clinton Phipps Memorial Ice Fishing Derby held on Fort Peck Reservoir January 24-25, 2009 - 6th Annual Big Money Ice Fishing Derby held on Lower Beaver PHOTO CONTEST ENTRY - JOHN BENDA OF SUPERIOR MT. Creek Reservoir “Hunting Pheasants with my Gordon Setter named “Idah” in Western Montana, north of January 31, 2009 - Murphy’s 3rd Annual Ice Fishing Tournament held on Nelson Reservoir Hot Springs, MT. My Setter is 3 1/2 years old and primarily hunts Mountain Grouse, but January 31, 2009 - Hell Creek Ice Fishing Tournament held on Fort Peck Reservoir on occasion I put her in the field for pheasant hunting. I use a Mossberg Silver Reserve February 21, 2009 - 13th Annual Ice Fishing Contest held on Fort Peck Reservoir 12 ga over/under shot gun. She is a special animal to me and I love being in the field with her. “

JANUARY 2009

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE • 27

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• BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

JANUARY 2009

Rocky Mountain States Deer Expected to Gather at Last Winter’s Feeding Sites in Gunnison Area W

hen the snow begins to pile up again in the Gunnison Basin, mule deer will likely show up at the feed sites established last winter by the Colorado Division of Wildlife. This will not necessarily be a sign that the deer are starving, said DOW officials.

“Like all animals, deer are creatures of habit and they remember where they find easily available sources of food,” said J Wenum area wildlife manager in Gunnison. “When we see them at the feeding sites this year, depending on the winter conditions, it may not mean they are in trouble.”

The DOW reminds people that they shouldn’t provide any type of feed to deer or attempt to get close to them.

Feeding big game is illegal unless authorized by the DOW. “A feeding operation is only authorized under very severe conditions,” Wenum said. “Deer are well adapted to the tough Gunnison winters. But last year was certainly one of the most extreme winters experienced in the Gunnison Basin.”

Last year’s feeding operation was an extraordinary event because of the unusually deep snow and extremely cold temperatures. In an average winter deer can find enough natural forage.

But even average winters are tough on health animals. Deer usually lose about 20 percent of their body weight during winter and that decline in body mass means that weaker animals will not make it to the spring. Even during average winters, that 15-20 percent of the deer herd may die. Survival depends greatly on the health of the deer going into the winter.

Last year’s abundant winter moisture helped guarantee plenty of wild forage throughout the Gunnison Basin during the summer and fall. The warm weather that lasted late into fall also means that deer have access to plenty of food and have been able to put on fat stores for the winter. Until snow begins to accumulate, deer will remain spread across the basin and find good sources of food. As snow piles up they will move into traditional winter range areas - many of which include the feeding sites.

“We are likely to see a lot of deer in those areas because of the feeding last winter,” Wenum said.

Elk are well adapted and have high survival rates even during extreme winter conditions. Last winter, the DOW baited elk with hay spread by snow-cats and helicopter to keep them away from ranchers’ haystacks, deer feeding sites, and off main roads and highways. It is anticipated that elk also may return to the bait sites.

In early January, DOW big game biologists will begin their annual classification and census flights throughout the basin. With that work, the DOW will better understand how many deer survived the winter of 2008. Flight data will also provide timely information necessary for discussing and setting hunting license allocation for 2009.

If game damage circumstances arise with either deer or elk, ranchers and landowners should contact their local District Wildlife Manager or the Gunnison DOW office at (970) 641-7060.

Spring Steelhead Season To Start

PHOTO RUSSELL PARKS

A

nglers who want to go steelhead fishing on New Year’s Day will need a new fishing license.

The spring steelhead season starts January 1 and runs through April 30, with three exceptions.

On the Little Salmon River the season runs through May 15; on the Salmon River from Lake Creek Bridge to Long Tom Creek, about a quarter mile upstream of the Middle Fork, the season ends March 31; and on the Snake River from Hells Canyon Dam upstream to Oxbow Dam, and on the Boise River upstream to Barber Dam, the season ends May 31.

Steelhead are in the Boise River only when stocked by Idaho Fish and Game. This year about 1,000 steelhead were stocked in the river. Barbless hooks are not required in the Boise River, but anglers must have a steelhead permit to fish for and keep steelhead, which are rainbow trout longer than 20 inches with a clipped adipose fin.

The spring steelhead limit is three fish per day, nine in possession and 20 for the season. Once limits are reached, the angler must stop fishing - even catch-and-release.

Anglers must have a valid Idaho fishing license and steelhead permit.

Steelhead anglers may use only barbless hooks, and may keep only hatchery steelhead marked with a clipped adipose fin. All other steelhead must be released unharmed immediately.

Open waters for steelhead are: -Salmon River from its mouth to the posted boundary 100 yards downstream of the Sawtooth Fish Hatchery

weir, near the town of Stanley.

-Little Salmon River from its mouth to the U.S. Highway 95 bridge near Smokey Boulder Road.

-Snake River from the Washington state line at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers upstream to Hells Canyon Dam. -Clearwater River Mainstem and Middle Fork Clearwater River from its mouth to Clear Creek.

-North Fork Clearwater River from its mouth to Dworshak Dam. -South Fork Clearwater River from its mouth to the confluence of American and Red Rivers.

-Boise River from its mouth to the Barber Dam. In the boundary waters on the Snake River between Idaho and Oregon or Washington, an angler with a valid 2009 Idaho fishing license and steelhead permit may fish where the river forms the boundary between Idaho and Oregon or Washington, but may not fish from the shoreline, including wading, and may not fish in sloughs or tributaries on the Oregon or Washington side. An angler may have only the limit allowed by one license regardless of the number of licenses the angler holds.

Consult 2008-2009 fishing rules brochure for exceptions and special restrictions. For more information on steelhead fishing in Idaho, check the Fish and Game Website http://fishandgame.idaho.gov.

Don’t forget to buy a 2009 fishing license and steelhead permit before heading out on New Year’s Day.

JANUARY 2009

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE • 29

Rocky Mountain States Hunting Seasons Still Open Many big game hunting Jackrabbits are considered predators under seasons have ended, but there’s still plenty Idaho law and hunting is unregulated but a of hunting open through the end of the month and through the winter.

Seasons are open for geese, ducks, coots and common snipe through January 16 in the northern and eastern parts of the state and through January 23 in the southwest. The season is closed on canvasbacks.

In the uplands, the seasons remain open on forest grouse and on pheasants in the northern and western part of the state through December 31. The pheasant and quail seasons are closed in the eastern part of the state.

Bobwhite and California quail season remains open through January 31 in the western and northern parts of the state. The seasons on chukar and gray partridge remain open through January 31.

As for rabbits, the season on cottontails is open through February 28 and on snowshoe hares through March 31.

current hunting or combination license is still required.

Falconry is open through March 15 for upland game birds species and January 31 for crows. The falconry season on migratory game birds is the same as the federal seasons.

Mountain lion seasons are open through the winter in much of the state.

Mountain lion seasons are open through March 31 in all units except 1 - 9; 20A, 26, 27, 41 and 42.

A valid 2009 hunting license will be required starting January 1, 2009.

Licenses are available at vendors and Fish and Game offices.

Check Fish and Game rules for exact seasons in your favorite hunting unit.

Rules, seasons and limits also are available on the internet at: http://fishandgame.idaho.gov.

More Spike Bull Elk Hunting Permits

BUCK DEER

The Wildlife Board also approved a major archery deer hunting change.

Utah’s elk herds will get some much-needed help in 2009.

On Dec. 4, the Utah Wildlife Board approved spike elk hunting changes for next season. The changes should open room in the herds for more cow elk. The calves these cows will produce are vital to the future of Utah’s elk herds.

The board also lengthened the general rifle buck deer hunt in southern Utah, approved a major change to Utah’s statewide archery buck deer hunt and started a management buck deer hunt on Utah’s two best deer hunting units.

In the 2009 Utah Big Game Guidebook, you can see all of the changes the board approved. The guidebook should be available at www.wildlife.utah.gov/

a total of 11,000 spike bull permits were available.

Anis Aoude, big game coordinator for the Division of Wildlife Resources, says the changes the board approved are important to the future of Utah’s elk herds.

“On many of these units, the number of bull elk and the number of cow elk is the same,” Aoude says. “The only way to make room for that many bull elk is to keep reducing the number of cow elk. And that could spell disaster for the herds. Because the herds have fewer cow elk in them, fewer and fewer calves are being born.

“If the situation doesn’t change, eventually the elk populations will crash and the fantastic elk hunting hunters are enjoying in Utah now will be gone.”

Aoude says opening all but three of the state’s limited entry units to spike bull hunting will allow more spike bulls to be taken while still protecting the larger bulls in the herds.

DWR biologists recommended 17,000 spike bull permits at public meetings a few weeks ago. They changed their proposal after hunters said some of the units would be inundated with hunters if 17,000 permits were offered.

“We survey hunters after every hunting season,” Aoude says. “The survey we conduct after the 2009 hunts will give us a good picture of what the hunting pressure was like on each unit.”

guidebooks during the week of Dec. 15.

CHANGES BULL ELK Spike bull elk hunters can now hunt spike bulls on 26 of Utah’s 29 limited entry bull elk hunting units.

The only limited entry elk units where spike bull hunting will not be allowed are the North Slope, Three Corners and South Slope, Diamond Mountain units in northeastern Utah, and the Pilot Mountain unit in western Utah.

And a few more hunters will be hunting spike bulls in 2009 after board members raised the number of spike bull rifle hunting permits to 12,500. In 2008,

Archery changes: If you like to hunt during Utah’s general archery buck deer hunt, you’ll have to wait until Sept. 2 to hunt statewide.

Utah’s general season archery buck deer hunt runs Aug. 15 to Sept. 11 on most of the units in the state. \ You can hunt in a single region until Sept. 1. Starting Sept. 2, you can hunt in any region in the state.

“Hunters in southern Utah are concerned that too many archery hunters are hunting in the Southern Region at the start of the season,” Aoude says.

“Depending on which region you choose to hunt in, this change could prevent you from hunting in the Southern Region at the start of the archery season.

But you can still hunt in the region halfway through the season.”

General archery permits are capped at 16,000. But within that cap, there’s no limit on the number of permits that can be sold for each region.

When you buy your permit, just indicate which region you want to hunt in.

You can hunt in that region until Sept. 1.

Starting Sept. 2, you can hunt in any region in the state.

Nine-day rifle deer hunt: Utah’s general rifle buck deer hunt will be a nine-day hunt in each of the DWR’s five regions. The hunt will run Oct. 17 to 25.

The only exception is five subunits where buck-to-doe ratios aren’t meeting goals in the state’s management plan. The hunt on the five subunits runs Oct. 21 to 25.

The five subunits that have the shorter hunts are the Nebo and Oquirrh-Stansbury subunits in central Utah; the South Slope, Vernal subunit in northeastern Utah; the LaSal Mountains subunit in southeastern Utah; and the Monroe subunit in south-central Utah.

Management buck deer hunt: More hunters can hunt on the Paunsaugunt and Henry Mountains premium limited entry units after board members approved a management buck deer hunt for the units.

The management hunt runs Nov. 2–6 on the Henry Mountains unit and Nov. 7–11 on the Paunsaugunt unit. If you draw a permit for the hunt, one of the antlers on the deer you take may not have more than three points on it. There’s no restriction on the number of points the other antler can have. You can hunt with a rifle, a muzzleloader, or a bow and arrow.

“This change will give more hunters a chance to hunt on these premiere units while still protecting the larger bucks on the units,” Aoude says.

Mule deer management plan committee: The deer hunting ideas the board approved came from Utah’s Mule Deer Management Plan Committee. The 17-person committee included representatives from the Mule Deer Foundation, Sportsmen for Fish and Wildlife, the Utah Bowman’s Association, the Utah Wildlife Federation, the Utah Farm Bureau, the Bureau of Land Management, Utah’s Cooperative Wildlife Management Unit Association, all five of Utah’s Regional Advisory Councils and the Utah Wildlife Board.

For more information, call the nearest Division of Wildlife Resources office or the DWR’s Salt Lake City office at (801) 538-4700.

30

• BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

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Calendar Of Events ANACONDA Chocolate Festival: February 6 - 7 Local merchants give away free chocolates to all customers. A Children’s Valentine Box Contest, ages K-6th, the winner receiving a $50.00 Savings Bond.

The Annual Quilt Exhibit and Bake Sale will also be held at Copper Village, 401 East Commercial. Candy will be available in all stores. Registration to win a chocolate lover’s basket and the town’s biggest sweetie pie!

Phone: 406-563-2422 or visit www.anacondamt.org

BILLINGS: Great Rockies Sportshow: January 16 - 18

The Great Rockies Sportshow and the Montana Outdoor Recreation Exposition (MORE) have merged to bring you the largest sport show in Montana and Wyoming.

Each year international exhibitors from around the world travel to Billings to meet with outdoor enthusiasts. This three day event features fishing, hunting, boats, camping, travel, RVs, and more! Family activities include the kid’s trout pond, camp cooking seminars, hundreds of exhibitors, Wall of Fish, big game trophy displays, the Head and Horns Competition, Shed Antler display, shed antler Contest, fly fishing seminars, fly tying demos, hunting Montana Snowkite Rodeo: seminars, fly casting February 14 - 16 instruction, fishing seminars, horse packing plus Montana Snowkite Rodeo is the Northwest’s premier snowkiting competition. This freestyle and racing event backcountry seminars, photography exhibits, door prizes, adventure simulators and more! Held at the MetraPark. attracts competitors from multiple countries including Phone: 406-580-3907 or visit www.greatrockiesshow.com. powerkiters from Norway, Canada, Sweden and the E-mail: bill@greatrockiesshow.com United States. Kiteboarding has joined the list of wind-driven sports and unleashed never before seen wild 34th Annual Northern Rodeo Assoc. Finals: kite riders onto the silence of frozen lakes.

Held at Georgetown Lake Lodge, February 19 - 21 2015 Georgetown, Lake Road.

With more than 1,200 contesting members and over 42 Phone: 406-442-8009 or sanctioned rodeos throughout the summer rodeo season, the visit www.montanakitesports.com Northern Rodeo Association is one of the largest regional rodeo associations in the United States. The Northern Rodeo Association Finals are hosted each February in indoor Legends of the Wulf Nordic Ski Race: comfort by the MetraPark Arena in Billings. NRF pays out February 28 nearly $60,000 in payoff and prizes, and the event features Legends of the Wulf Nordic Ski Race, formerly Ben only the top ten money winners in each of the eight rodeo Ali Haggin’s Mile High Nordic Ski Race, is a freestyle events competing on top livestock.

Nordic ski race with distances of 1, 2, 5, 9, and 19 km.

Phone: 406-252-1122 The entry fee is $25 for adults and $15 for juniors 17 and under, and ask for family rates. A meal and awards at end BOZEMAN of race is included in entry fee. All juniors 17 and under receive a medal for participation. Medals awarded for Skin to Win/Randonnee Festival: 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in each race distance. The 9 and February 7 19km courses are hilly and technically challenging. The This is the 5th year for this mountaineering event at Bridger. course is at an elevation above 6,000 feet and provides Recreational and professional divisions for men and women expansive views of Mount Haggin and the Pintler Range. available. This is a high endurance event requiring the Held at Mount Haggin Nordic Ski Trails, 11 miles south ascent of several thousand feet and then descending steep of Anaconda on the road to Wisdom. expert terrain. Great prizes for top finishing competitors.

Phone: 406-782-0316 or visit www.missoulanordic.org. Door prizes, too! Located 16 miles northeast of Bozeman E-mail: joe@redmountain.us on Highway 86. Phone: 406-586-1518 or toll Free: 800-223-9609.

Visit www.bridgerbowl.com BIG SKY E-mail: skitrip@bridgerbowl.com Sno-Ball: January 17 - 24 Enjoy watching regional professionals carve their ice Wild West Winterfest: February 13 - 15 masterpieces, while kids can help form snow features.

Other activities include a bouncer room for children and Grab your galoshes...and head to the Wild West WinterFest.

Some of the activities include horse drawn wagon rides, ski and snowboard demos. When the sun goes down the event transforms into a party held in the sno-bar, which is kid’s special Roundup Rodeo, McLien’s FFA Farm Barn designed with walls, a bar, tables, and benches all formed full of farm animals for the kids and a hockey tournament. out of snow. Dance the night away until the fireworks There’s a Working Horse & Driver Contest and Horse Sale.

Dog Events will include Agility, Terrier Races, show caps off this memorable evening! Held in Conformation, Pet Tricks and a Dog Keg-pulling Contest.

Big Sky’s Mountain Village, 8 miles west of Also a Packer’s Scramble, Elk Bugling Contest and a Highway 191 on Highway 64.

Chili Cook-off. Grab a partner to dance at the Bootlegger’s Phone: 406-995-5765 or toll Free: 800-548-4486.

Ball. There will be plenty of other music for entertainment Visit www.bigskyresort.com throughout the weekend. A children’s art show, a quilt E-mail: chadjones@bigskyresort.com show, and an open photography show can be seen in the exhibit buildings. At WinterFest Market, the vendors will be exhibiting their arts and crafts. Held at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds, 901 North Black Avenue.

Phone: 406-582-3270 or visit www.gallatin.mt.gov/fairgrounds E-mail: fairgrounds@gallatin.mt.gov

GLASGOW Ice Fishing Tournament: February 21

TOWNSEND Lion’s Club Perch Ice Fishing Derby: January 24 - 25

Competition ice fishing in the Marina Bay at Fort Peck Lake! Top prize is $2,000, with other cash prizes Weather permitting, anglers from all over try their luck and merchandise prizes. Any fish caught could be at Canyon Ferry Lake for most and largest perch. Prizes the winner from perch to northern pike; walleyes are for adults and kids. Food, fun and fish, Mother Nature accepted too! Bring the whole family, dress warmly and provides the ice. expect to have a lot of fun. The holes are pre-drilled, so Saturday: Perch Derby - Largest Perch just bring a scoop, a bucket, your fishing equipment and Sunday: Team (4 people) - Most Pounds whatever you need to spend three hours on the ice. No Lion’s Club Perch Ice Fishing Derby will be held on tents or sleeping bags. There is a limit of 200 fishermen. Canyon Ferry Lake. At approximately mile marker 70 The event starts at noon and is over at 3:00pm. Prizes on Highway 287, turn at Silos Inn and drive east to will be awarded right after the final whistle.

Canyon Ferry Lake.

Held at the Fort Peck Marina is just off Highway 24, Phone: 406-266-5790 eighteen miles from Glasgow. Follow the signs.

Phone: 406-228-2222 or visit www.glasgowmt.net WHITEHALL E-mail: chamber@glasgowmt.net

HAVRE Ice Fishing Derby: January 24 - 25

The Ice Fishing Derby is a two-day family event.

Each hour there are cash prizes for the longest fish, for northern pike, walleyes and trout categories and five tagged fish worth $5,000 if caught. At the end of the derby a final prize paid in each category.

Held on Beaver Creek Reservoir.

Phone: 406-265-4383 or visit www.havremt.com

LAKE MARY RONAN Ice Fishing Tournament: March 7

The Perch Assault is back! Presented by the Flathead Chapter of Walleyes Unlimited.

Phone: 406-249-0556 or visit www.Perchassault.com

MIDDLE THOMPSON Ice Fishing Tournament: February 21

The Perch Assault is back! Presented by the Flathead Chapter of Walleyes Unlimited.

Phone: 406-249-0556 or visit www.Perchassault.com

MISSOULA Frost Fever/Winterfest: January 31

Frost Fever/Winter Festival - 5k fun run, sports events, outdoor adventures, special events at Currents Aquatics Center. Phone 406-721-PARK, or visit www.missoulaparks.org

SEELEY LAKE Seeley Lake Area Winterfest: January 23 - 25

Winterfest will kick off Friday with a torch light parade followed by the annual bonfire to burn old Christmas trees. Throughout the entire event will be Snow Sculpture viewing and competition. As these creations come to completion, it forms a unique activity for both the sculptures and the viewers. The Dessertfest is a wonderful evening for adults with a cross section of desserts and appetizers served with wine, beer, coffee and punch. For entertainment, there is an auction as well as live entertainers. Winterfest encompass events and activities for the whole family. Events might include Broomball, bonfire, parade, dogsledding, cross-country skiing races, concerts and readings etc.

Phone: 406-677-2880 or visit www.seeleylakechamber.com.

NRA Shooting Clinic: Fish Creek Gun Club offers NRA Shooting Clinics the third Saturday of each month.

NRA Basic Pistol: This course is designed to teach the basics of pistol marksmanship. The course emphasizes firearms safety while teaching the techniques of sight alignment, breath, hold, and trigger control. This 10 hour course offers a solid base upon which a student can safely build their shooting skills and includes two hours of shooting time on the range. All course materials including targets will be provided. A firearm can also be loaned to you if needed. Ammunition is extra. Phone 406-287-2181

EVENTS TO SUPPORT WILDLIFE TROUT UNLIMITED 02/21/09 Gallatin Chapter Annual Banquet Contact: Mike Haugh (406) 556-6796

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01/24/09 Polson Mission Valley Big Game Banquet Contact: Kelly Kost (406) 644-3495 02/07/09 Billings Beartooth Big Game Banquet Contact: Mike Baugh (406) 855-0324

Elk Camp Hunting, Fishing & Outdoor Expo March 5-8, 2009 Contact RMEF (406) 523-4500 1(800) CALL ELK (225-5355)

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There Is No Such Thing As 100% Safe Ice

BY MATT SHEPPARD, IDAHO FISH AND GAME

I

’m not sure whether I fall into the majority or minority on this issue, but literally speaking, I flat out don’t like ice over water.

The only two places I like ice are at the bottom of my drinking glass or at the hockey rink - you never hear of a hockey player falling through the ice. We’ve all heard that popping and cracking sound that ice makes when you walk on it. If you’re like me that sound makes you cringe.

Whether ice fishing myself or walking out on shelf ice to check a license, I’ve never truly felt safe on ice.

On a recent patrol along the Salmon River, I noticed ice starting to build at the slow-moving stretch of Deadwater.

As I continued my patrol down the river my thoughts turned to how an area recently over-flowing with hunters and anglers will get a break from the action for the next couple of months.

But I’ve become accustomed to seeing anglers who have the fishing bug no matter what the time of year. I know that I can always find a few hardy souls willing

to venture out onto the shore ice for steelhead or ice fishing out on Williams Lake for a limit of rainbow trout.

So when is ice safe? Minnesota’s Department of Natural Resources Website offers the following: “There really is no sure answer. You can’t judge the strength of ice just by its appearance, age, thickness, temperature, or whether or not the ice is covered with snow. Strength is based on all these factors - plus the depth of water under the ice, size of the water body, water chemistry and currents, the distribution of the load on the ice, and local climatic conditions.”

Experts recommend a minimum of 4-inch thick ice for walking. Ice safety guidelines also recommend a minimum of 5 inches of new, clear ice for snowmobiles, and 8 to 12 inches for a small-to mediumsized automobile, pickup or SUV. Here are some additional facts I found on Minnesota’s DNR website about ice safety: * New ice is usually stronger than old ice.

Four inches of clear, newly formed ice may

support one person on foot, while a foot or more of old, partially thawed ice may not. * Ice seldom freezes uniformly. It may be a foot thick in one location and only an inch or two just a few feet away. * Ice formed over flowing water and currents is often dangerous. This is especially true near streams, bridges and culverts. Also, the ice on outside river bends is usually weaker due to the undermining effects of the faster current. * The insulating effect of snow slows down the freezing process. The extra weight also reduces how much weight the ice sheet can support. Also, ice near shore can be weaker than ice that is farther out. * Booming and cracking ice isn’t necessarily dangerous. It only means that the ice is expanding and contracting as the temperature changes.

Every winter I check or hear of someone fishing on the river that fell through the shelf-ice. The outcomes of these incidents vary, but all are serious and potentially life threatening. Speaking from experience, I can say that in addition to extremely cold and shocking, it is a very scary experience.

I would urge anyone who plans on spending time out on the ice to research measures you can take to ensure survival of yourself or someone else falling through the ice. Remember how important it is to

recognize signs of unsafe ice, and stay safe while venturing out this winter.

34

• BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

JANUARY 2009

Experts Reaffirm Boone And Crockett Club Position On Wolves BOONE AND CROCKETT CLUB

Following presentations by some of the nation’s leading wolf

Elk Foundation Voices Support for Delisting Wolves - RMEF T

he Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and 18 other conservation organizations have submitted a joint letter to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in support of delisting gray wolves in Montana, Idaho and Wyoming.

Delisting would remove gray wolves from the federal Endangered Species List and turn management over to state wildlife agencies.

Read the full letter by pasting the following URL into your browser: http://www.rmef.org/Conservation/WhereWeWork/FreshTracks/ “The 19 organizations that signed onto the letter represent millions of outdoorsmen and conservationists. We’re gratified that they share our concern about wolves in the northern Rockies,” said

David Allen, Elk Foundation president and CEO. “Wolf populations are well above federal recovery goals and it’s time to manage them like other game animals.”

He added, “This letter is another way for us to express our longstanding support of state-based wolf management.

It’s a system that works for elk, deer, turkeys, bears, cougars and other keystone species, and it will work for wolves, too.”

Allen urged Elk Foundation members and others to make their voices heard individually by contacting their state and federal legislators.

The letter, submitted within a recent public comment period on the issue, also offered six conservation principles to help guide the actions of federal and state agencies.

authorities, the Boone and Crockett Club today reaffirmed its position that gray wolves should be delisted and managed as a game species by the states.

Experts, including the biologist directing wolf recovery efforts in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming, spoke at the Club’s annual meeting, which concluded Saturday in Houston.

Presenters included Ed Bangs, national wolf recovery coordinator, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; Valerius Geist, emeritus professor, University of Calgary; Carolyn A. Sime, wolf program coordinator, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks; Bob Model, Mooncrest Cattle Ranch in Cody, Wyo.; Cristina Eisenberg, Ph.D. candidate and Boone and Crockett fellow, Oregon State University; Dan Pletscher, director of wildlife biology program, University of Montana; and Paul R. Krausman, Boone and Crockett professor of wildlife conservation, University of Montana.

Topics included historical wolf reintroduction into Western habitats, expansion under Endangered Species Act (ESA) protection, current status, and the delisting efforts recently stalled in the courts.

“All of the facts and latest data reaffirm our position that the best hope for the gray wolf today is delisting from the Endangered Species List as planned, and turning management responsibilities over to state agencies. Tying up their future in the courts is not the answer,” said Lowell E. Baier, president of Boone and Crockett Club.

Baier added, however, that these steps are merely the first in a wolf management process that promises complexity for decades afterward.

He explained, “The wolf issue is regional in nature but international in scope with an unprecedented range of stakeholders, many of whom are victims of the emotion and hyperbole surrounding this species.

The polarization is like nothing else that conservationists have addressed—ever.”

Since the time of Theodore Roosevelt, hunters have led a conservation movement that brought many species from vanishing to flourishing.

Wolves, a comparatively new element in the balance after a 60-70 year absence, could have positive effects on overall ecosystem health. However, in the northern Rockies, historic behaviors and patterns of elk, deer and moose—prey for wolves and game for hunters—are in flux. Wolves are also impacting livestock. Without state administered management, wolves could seriously impact America’s conservation system as well as private land, farming and ranching interests.

The Boone and Crockett Club authored a recent letter in support of delisting northern Rocky Mountain gray wolves, which was circulated through the Club-founded American Wildlife Conservation Partners (AWCP) network.

Eighteen conservation organizations endorsed the letter before it was submitted to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as official comment on the proposed delisting under the ESA. The letter offered the following six principles to guide federal and state wildlife agencies.

1. When wolf populations meet scientific viability criteria for recovery they no longer require federal protection under the ESA. They should be de-listed if recovery plan goals are met and where regulatory mechanisms are in place to adequately manage the species.

2. After the wolf is de-listed, scientifically sound wolf management programs administered by state wildlife agencies should maintain sustainable wolf populations to preclude the need to re-list under the ESA. 3. Reflecting the success of other historic hunter/conservationist-led species recovery programs, wolves should be managed as big game animals in areas designated for wolf occupancy and wolf seasons should be regulated by the states.

4. Where and when hunting is deemed appropriate under state regulations, methods used by hunters must conform to fair chase principles.

5. When classified as game animals, wolf populations should be maintained in accordance with the biological and cultural carrying capacities of the habitats they occupy.

6. Management of individual wolves and wolf populations should also recognize the need to balance management objectives with respect for private property and human well being.

In the Fall 2008 edition of Boone and Crockett Club’s member magazine, “Fair Chase,” a series of articles looks at the wolf issue from all sides. This issue can be purchased ($7.95 plus shipping) online at www.booneandcrockettclub. com.

At their annual meetings, Club members address a range of conservation issues. Professional presentations, scientific research and committee reports guide Club activities. Over the past 121 years such meetings have resulted in actions that have helped shape every facet of conservation.

JANUARY 2009

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE • 35

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Drawbacks: None Rating: 6 Point...Best Tester: All Suggested Retail: $64.99

Feathered Friends Sleeping Bags

Recommend Yes...Buy Highlights: We have two of the Penguin 10 degree, a wide down bag and another they made for us from eVent® fabric also 10 degree down wide bag. One of my testers Ryan Stefek tested the Penguin, Antelope hunting, and Elk chasing. Six nights out with temperatures dipping below freezing, Ryan reported back, “One of the best bags I have ever used, warm, light and plenty of room to move around in.” The Penguin Ryan tested is 6 foot 6 inches long, 850+ down fill, has continuous baffles and double draft tubs. The double draft tubes run the length of the zipper to prevent cold spots. The continuous baffles allow the down to move from top of the bag to the bottom of the bag, depending on where the user desires. Lay the bag completely open and move the down where is needed the most. We like a wide and long bag. It offers us enough room to move without giving us the feeling we are trapped. The bag weight 3 pounds 3 oz. with 7-inch loft and fill weight is a mere 28 ounces. The Penguin also has zippered flanges for adding optional hoods. The Feathered Friends bags impressed all our testers, some of the best we have ever used.

Drawbacks: None Rating: 8 Point...Best Tester: All Suggested Retail: $425.00 to $500.00

Sitka Mountain Gear

Recommend Yes...Buy Highlights: This is the second year we have tested Sitka Mountain Gear, the styling and technologic advancements for the hunter surpass anything we have seen or tested. The Camouflage pattern was a joint effort with Mothwing Camo Technologies and the look is distinctive.

Sitka was not satisfied with just an innovative look, the 90% pant and 90% jacket incorporate DWR (Durable Water Repellant) it is breathable, resistant to wind and moisture. This hunting season we tested both pant and jacket, along with Core Zip-T and Core Bottoms with Polartec® Powder Dry® construction with welded pockets, YKK zippers, on jacket and pant, Polartec® Odor Resistant Technology in the bottoms and Zip-T. Both bottom and Zip-T and moisture wicking base layers. Each piece fit like a glove with four-way stretch, moving comfortably with the wearer. Sitka is serious hunting clothing for big game hunters, upland game chasers or those that choose blowing on a Duck call. This is not your traditional hunting base layer or outerwear. A confirmation to the quality of Sitka Mountain Gear; all my testers wanted and knew from the buzz going around this is highly regarded gear. We can report without hesitation Sitka is the lodestar for the industry. Drawbacks: None Rating: 8 Point...Best Tester: Pat Stinson Chris Stinson Suggested Retail: 90% Jacket...$249.99 90% Pant...$229.00 Cote Zip T...$89.00 Core Bottom...$69.00

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• BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

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Planning Now For The 09’ Backcountry BY CLINT TRAVER

W

inter has finally made a showing here in Montana and for many people hunting is the furthest thing from their mind. Though the thundering guns of the general season have only recently quieted, I am already pondering my options for next season. The wide range of game species and hunting regions that we have here in our state provide plenty of food for thought. By making choices now about your hunting for next season you provide yourself almost an entire year to prepare and you can keep your head in the game staving off the post-season gloom.

Like many hunters, I know that come hunting season my time off will be very limited. Though I have plenty of weekend hunts, due to my finances and work schedule I am only able to plan one “big” hunt each year.

Needless to say I covet this trip saving vacation time and planning months in advance. During the slowness of the off season I usually begin to fantasize about my big hunt for the following season. By making a decision now about my big backcountry hunt for next season, I have a whole year to prepare. The choices of what, where, when and how to hunt are wide open before you and thinking about them now will help you stay focused through the slowness of winter.

The first step that you need to take is to decide what type of game you want to pursue in the backwoods.

With the assortment of critters we have here in Montana there are plenty of animals to choose from. By deciding what type of game you want to hunt, you help set the stage for making other decisions like where and when

to hunt. If your goal is to hunt for animals that require the successful drawing of a lottery tag, do yourself a favor and also plan a backup hunt for a species that does not need a special drawing. I think I plan a moose and sheep hunt every year and still no damn tags.

Deciding where you want to hunt can be an exciting process. If you are putting in for specialty tags, you need to at least know which hunting district you will be hunting before you can even submit your application. With the different species offered by your general tags, the options of where to hunt are almost wide open. When I choose an area to hunt, I generally look for a few specific things. First and in my mind foremost, I look for areas known to hold good populations of the animal that I seek. Next, I try to find large roadless areas with very limited access.

The process of deciding where to hunt should start out very broad, with your choice of location being refined as you do your homework. If the location you are looking at has good numbers of animals the next step is to find spots within that area that are off the beaten path. For the greatest chance of success you want to find locations that have very limited access and the type of habitat suited to the animal you seek. The best chance for remoteness is usually in a Wilderness Area or a large swath of National Forest. I start with my maps and try to locate pockets of country with little or no trails. Though this type of country will eventually lead to my suffering, it will help me have the woods to myself.

When to hunt is a question that is integrally linked to the answers of your other questions. For example, if I want to hunt elk in the Big Hole and I decide that I want to make it an archery hunt then I will probably want to hunt the rut. With that in mind, knowing that the elk in the Big Hole tend to rut a bit sooner then the elk in some other areas, I need to plan my hunt accordingly. In some instances when to hunt is closely linked to things like the weather. If I should decide that I want to hunt for a big bull with my rifle, I need to watch the weather and make sure that I am in my area of choice before the snow depth or consistency pushes the bulls closer to the other wintering elk. The weather variable is obviously tough to predict but you can look at the patterns from previous years to get a rough idea of what weather conditions have been in the past. I would also suggest taking the time to look at what the moon phases will be for next season before deciding when to hunt.

Here in Montana we have many options with regards to how we hunt. First we have the choice of which weapon to use. This is sometimes dictated by hunting district or other seasonal regulations. Then there is the question of how to hunt once you are on the ground. Will you still hunt the timber or post up on a migration corridor or a water source? Also, will you be exploring the backcountry on foot or possibly from a bike or horse? All of these questions should be answered as you begin your preparations for next season.

Though I map out most of my hunts down to the last detail, you need to allow for flexibility in your plans. There are many unexpected things that can alter your plans here in Montana. Sometimes it seems like everything from the weather, the economy, forest fires and just day-today responsibilities are all conspiring to ruin your plans. Life is not static so you need to be dynamic and have a backup plan. If the area you want to hunt is on fire or in a severe drought, hunt elsewhere. If your boss forgets about your months-old time off request, negotiate for other time off and hunt then instead.

Now I am a realist and I know that most people are not going to put a bunch of time and effort into getting ready for next hunting season while spring is still months away. If you just take a few steps each month towards your goal for next season, the chore of preparation will be much easier. Also by staying active during the winter, especially after the gluttony of the holidays, it will be easier to get in shape later on.

JANUARY 2009

Outdoor Legend Jim Shockey

To Visit Sportsman’s Warehouse Stores In Billings & Bozeman The legendary Jim Shockey

will be visiting Sportsman’s Warehouse stores in Billings and Bozeman this month.

Mr. Shockey will be at the Bozeman Sportsman’s Warehouse store from 1:30pm - 3:30pm, and at the Billings Sportsman’s Warehouse store from 5:00pm - 7:30 pm. on January 27th to sign autographs and swap stories.

Jim has been an award winning outdoor writer, wildlife photographer\ videographer, wilderness guide and outfitter for the last two decades. He has exclusive guiding territories on world-renowned Vancouver Island, British Columbia, in the wilds of the Yukon Territory, in the Sonoran Desert of Old Mexico and also in the heart of big whitetail buck country in Saskatchewan. Jim’s personal hunting experiences include travel to the remotest, wildest and most beautiful reaches of North America.

During the course of his adventures, he has taken numerous muzzleloading world records, including, Stone’s sheep, bison, Roosevelt elk, Shiras moose, muskox, walrus, white-bearded wildebeest, Grant’s gazelle, steenbok and many more. He is the first and only hunter in the world to complete the “NORTH AMERICAN SUPER SLAM” and “ULTIMATE SLAM” using only a muzzleloader. Jim has published more than 1,000 adventure articles for virtually all the largest outdoor magazines, produces videos and hosts his own adventure television show on the Outdoor Channel.

JANUARY 2009

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE • 37

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• BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

WINTER IS HERE & WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED!

JANUARY 2009

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Shawn Hall hunted unit 680 for sheep and was lucky enough to take this ram.

Photo by Don Marty Photos

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Number Of Super Tags Sold By Species In 2008: Sheep 22,429 Goat 6,393 Moose 11,222 Elk 15,541 Mule Deer 6,866 Bison 5,018 Antelope 2,335 Mountain Lion 1,515

All but one of the eight winners in 2008 were from Montana: Species Sheep Goat Moose Elk Mule Deer Bison Antelope Mtn. Lion

Winner Shawn Hall Aaron Franz Glen Majors John Laughery Ryan Wantaja Lori Clyde David Smith Matt Enrooth

Location Boulder, MT Sidney, MT Manhattan, MT Moses Lake, WA Summers, MT Bozeman, MT Victor, MT Butte, MT

Chances

Purchased 5 50 2 5 20 1 1 Unknown

BY JOE ESPARZA

Have you ever thought what it would be like if you won one of Montana’s super tag lottery? What would you do if you received a call from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks that let you know you had won the super tag lottery for sheep, goat, moose, elk, deer, bison, antelope or mountain lion? Would you yell and scream? Hang up because you thought it was a prank call? Call back the number on your phone because you thought it was a hoax? All of these reactions have happened to Ron Aasheim from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

Aasheim is the person responsible for letting people know they have won the super tag lottery. As a 33year employee of FWP, Ron has seen it all. “Most people are so excited they won, they usually just yell and scream in disbelief” he says. “This is definitely one of the best parts of my job.”

The super tag lottery was started in 2006 to give hunters a chance to hunt in the best areas of the state for a given species. This differs from the Governor’s tags which are auctioned each year for big, big dollars. For example, the 2008 Governor’s tag for sheep brought in an amazing $195,000, for elk $17,000, for mule deer $13,000, for moose $12,500, and for goat $9,000, for a total of $246,000 to the state. In contrast, the super tag lottery gives the average hunter a chance to hunt in any unit in the state by buying a five dollar “lottery tag”. This is issued in a special drawing each year, and gives the winner a unique opportunity to hunt the trophy of a lifetime.

One of the best attributes about this program is that all the money generated by the super tag lottery goes back into providing access programs for all sportsmen and for wildlife enforcement.

This program is definitely a win-win for the lucky hunter, FWP, and all sportsmen.

In 2008, the sale of the super tag lottery generated $356,595. The total number of super tags sold was 71,319— 38,229 chances bought by residents and 33,090 chances by non-residents. This represented a $30,000 increase above 2007 according to Aasheim.

See the chart at on the left.

Shawn Hall hunted unit 680 for sheep and was lucky enough to take the ram pictured above. This ram measured 42 inches on the right and 40 inches on the left, with bases of 15 ½ and 16 respectively. The ram is expected to score over the B& C minimum of 190 after the required drying period.

If you’re the lucky one drawn for the lottery, it’s an opportunity to hunt in the best units in the state. Who knows, maybe $5.00 will give you the one chance at a Boone and Crockett trophy of a lifetime. Even if you don’t win, you’re still investing in our great state to help gain hunting access and support wildlife enforcement.

Joe is the owner of SportsmensAccess.com, a membership website that provides members with the most comprehensive database and mapping service in the state of Montana for hunting and fishing on public and private land. He’s pictured below with his 2008 buck.

JANUARY 2009

BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE • 39

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JANUARY 2009