Big Sky Outdoor News & Adventure - June 2011

OUTDOOR NEWS P A

Big Sky

JUNE 2011

www.bigskyoutdoornews.net

lanning

Colorado Elk Hunt Summer Tactics For BUCKS In NOVEMBER Sighting In Your New Rifle Scope

Montana’s Big

Northern Pike

A HUNT For A GHOST RAM In Alaska

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Sighting In Your New Scope - Made Simple H ere are the steps to help you sight-in new equipment quickly and

Bring a pillow or a folded-up blanket to sit on to raise your head and shoulders to a comfortable height.

When you are seated and comfortable, position one or more sandbags on the table for a comfortable rest under the forearm. You want a solid rest but not a hard surface. A commercial rifle rest with a sandbag is perfect and adjustable which will eliminate recoil jump. When any part of a rifle, and particularly the barrel, rests on a hard surface the recoil will make the rifle jump, giving you a false point of impact.

accurately, when you purchase a new rifle or scope.

We’ll start by clarifying a few things; if you had your scope mounted by a gunsmith he will usually “bore sight” it once installed. He did not sight in and the mount should never be thought of as making the rifle ready for hunting unless he specifically shows you the target he used to sight-in. Bore sighting is a gross approximate alignment meant to assist the sighting-in process explained below. Bore sighting will make the process easier by allowing your first 25-yard shot to be on the paper. Once on the paper the gun can be dialed in for hunting. This process should always be completed at your home location well before leaving on a hunt. Be sure to check again if you made a long trip, especially on an airplane. Why? Jet engine vibration will loosen mounting screws plus there are baggage handlers that enjoy seeing how far and hard they can throw your equipment.

Once the scope is mounted start at 25-yards with a large sheet of paper behind your own sight-in target. You

BY BRIAN DAM

This is the time to always hold dead on the center of the target. Don’t adjust by changing where you aim, adjust the scope with the adjustment knobs so that when the cross hairs are on the bulls-eye you will hit slightly high at 100 yards which will make your rifle effective at 200-300 yards. can create a good target on your computer, drawing a set of heavy crosshairs to align the scope with the paper. The optimum situation occurs when you use the Caldwell Lead Sled, which eliminates human error. You are sighting the rifle - not practicing

your shooting skills and you want to eliminate the human element.

Lacking the Lead Sled option you need to be comfortable at the shooting bench so none of your muscles are cramped or in tension.

In this situation you will be holding the forearm of your rifle to simulate field conditions. Rest your hand on the sandbag and grip the forearm as you would in the field. Hold the rifle firmly because changing how you hold a rifle will change its point of impact.

Try to hold the rifle the same as when taking a hunting shot. Remember that you are sighting in a hunting gun and will get better results by minimizing all human contact with the rifle, especially by letting the sandbags or Lead Sled entirely support the forearm. You are trying to make this rifle deadly accurate at this point – not practicing your shooting. You want to establish confidence that your rifle is dead-on. (continued page 7)

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Resources for Planning Your Colorado Hunt → O

By Mark Richman

Colorado Is The Only State That Offers Bull Elk Licenses Over The Counter. nce you’ve decided that you want to go elk hunting in Colorado, the most daunting prospect for many new elk hunters seems to be deciding where and when you want to hunt. Colorado is blessed with a huge elk herd and large amounts of public land. Narrowing down your options can be one of the most time-consuming aspects of the application and planning process.

I know many hunters think they do not want to spend the time and effort to do a great amount of research on hunting areas during the off season.

The research is time consuming and takes some expertise, but in the long run, it can pay off if you are trying to locate a new area to hunt or if you are trying to determine why your current unit may have stopped producing the number of elk you have seen in the past. Which resources do you have at your disposal to help you make those decisions? That’s what this article is about.

David Hannigan

THE BIG GAME BROCHURE Before we even get into the statistics and other resources, everyone should have a copy of the 2011 Big Game Brochure. The big game brochure is a useful source of information on basic draw odds, List A versus List B tags, over the counter (OTC) units, and season dates. The over the counter maps have made it much easier to determine which units are available to hunt with an OTC either sex archery license, OTC antlerless elk, or OTC rifle bull license. The antlerless archery map includes all

of the List B units (the units where you can have an additional elk license).

Other useful features in the big game brochure are the asterisk and plus signs alongside the sex of certain hunt codes. The asterisks indicate hunt codes that went to leftovers last year; the plus signs indicate hunt codes that require 5 or more resident preference points to draw. These two little codes will help you quickly identify the highest demand areas that you likely won’t be able to draw if you are just getting started, the leftover tags which can be drawn 4th choice or may be available when the left over list is published.

STATISTICS Once you have an idea of what is available, you need to narrow down the units, seasons and sex for your elk hunt. And how do you do that? Big game statistics provided by the Division of Wildlife can play a big role in guiding the decisions of many hunters. You can take several different angles when perusing the statistics results. It helps to set a few personal parameters to guide your search. For some people, searching the harvest surveys for the highest success OTC unit during 2nd or 3rd rifle season is the tactic to take. Others might want to look for units with the fewest numbers of hunters where success is over 30% in 1st or 4th season. Some hunters might want to know where the most elk are taken.

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 34)

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Fishing Notes From The ʻ11 Annual FWP Fishing Newsletter MFWP

T o help anglers prepare for this year’s fishing season, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has produced the 2011 Annual Fishing Newsletter.

The 54-page report on the status of Montana’s fisheries is provided by local FWP fisheries biologists who collect data on Montana’s heralded rivers, streams, lakes and reservoirs.

“Anglers who read the Annual Fishing Newsletter will learn about the fish management, habitat restoration and public access activities of the past year,” said Bruce Rich, FWP fisheries bureau chief. “It is a must read for anyone who desires something more than a superficial understanding of what makes Montana’s fishing opportunities what they are.”

Something in the neighborhood of 390,000 resident and nonresident anglers are expected to be on Montana’s waters this fishing season. Stream fishing in Montana opened May 21st.

To read the 2011 Annual Fishing Newsletter online go to fwp. mt.gov. Here are some examples of the interesting facts anglers will find there.

In February 2010, Russ Geldrich of Kalispell caught a new state record pygmy whitefish from Little Bitterroot Lake—a 0.36 pound, 9.14 inch monster pygmy. The previous record was a 0 .16 pound pygmy from nearby Ashley Lake in 1982.

In late 2009, biologists investigated what turned out to be the first known population of freshwater jellyfish in Montana in a pond on an abandoned golf course near Great Falls. This jellyfish originates in China and has been widely but unintentionally distributed Pine Grove Pond, north of Kalispell, throughout the world by moving became the newest family fishing ornamental pond lilies from China pond in the state when Robin Street that contain jellyfish polyps. donated it to FWP recently. Street named the pond after a community New fishing regulations are in place and school his homesteader for Canyon Ferry, Hauser and Holter grandparents established more reservoirs after a year and half of than 100 years ago. work, public meetings and hundreds of public comments. If fish Flathead Lake is co-managed by FWP population levels exceed upper or and the Confederated Salish and lower trigger thresholds, regulation Kootenai Tribe. The 10 year changes may be proposed. For more Flathead Fisheries Co-Management about these triggers and the Upper Plan expires this year and the two Missouri River Reservoir Fisheries entities are considering a future plan. Management Plan 2010-2019, go to The year 2010 marked two decades the FWP website on the Fishing page. of continuous, dedicated river The 2010 walleye spawn netted 85 restoration work on the Blackfoot million eggs, enough to fill rearing River from the headwaters to the ponds at the Fort Peck and Miles mouth. The overall Milltown project City fish hatcheries. is the largest river restoration endeavor in Montana. When Check page 26 to discover where complete, natural river conditions on the Rocky Mountain Front and movement corridors will be anglers are flocking for the best reestablished for all migratory fish. rainbow trout fishing.

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Sighting In Your New Scope (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4) The Sled will absorb the recoil from all rifles that can eventually cause a bad flinch after prolonged shooting so work on the rifle, not your pain tolerance.

Take a steady position at the shooting bench using the 25-yard target. Set the variable scope to the highest practical power when not using fixed power optics. Find the highest power that delivers a sharp, clear image, which may not be the maximum power. Many sight pictures are sharper slightly below their maximum magnification. For example, the view through a 3-9x scope may look better at 7x or 8x than it does at 9x.

Load a round into the chamber and prepare to shoot. Align the crosshairs directly over the crosshairs you have created then before you shoot, close your eyes for 10-seconds and then open them. Did the crosshair drift off the target while you’re shooting eye was closed? If it did, it means your muscles are under tension trying to keep the rifle on target. Shift your position slightly until you can close your eyes and find the crosshairs aligned. Now your muscles are properly relaxed and you are in a position to do your best shooting. Go through this little routine before each shot.

Now examine the target and locate the bullet hole. You can probably see it through your riflescope and certainly through your spotting scope. You did bring a spotting scope didn’t you? Even though you bore-sighted your rifle, the bullet hole is probably not going to be in the center of the target, but at least it should be on the paper or the cardboard backer. Measure, or accurately estimate, the distance from the center of the bull. For example, the first shot hit three inches high and two inches to the left of the center of the target. Turn your scope elevation adjustment the correct number of clicks, or increments, required to move the point of impact to the target center.

Remember, each click moves the point of impact 1/4 MOA, which is 1/4 inch at 100-yards but since we are shooting at only 25-yards, we will need to multiply the number of clicks by 4, which is standard on most hunting scopes.

To move the point of impact down the required three inches at 100-yards requires 12 clicks (four clicks per inch).

At 25-yards we will have to multiply the number of clicks by 4, so turn the elevation adjustment in the down direction 48 clicks (12 x 4 = 48). It is a good idea to go a little past the new setting and then come back whenever adjusting a scope. Turn it 50 clicks and then come back two clicks for 48 clicks down. This helps settle the adjustments of many scopes. Also tap the adjustment dial after changing it for the same reason.

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 30)

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Fly Tying Corner: Bead Brooks Stone

By Bob Bates, fedflyfishers.org

OUTDOOR NEWS

O

ne of the activities associated with attending an annual Federation of Fly Fishers Show is testing the local waters. At one show a friend and I checked out some of the streams around Livingston while our Council President sat all day in a meeting. We tried a small tributary, caught some small fish then went to the Yellowstone river. There were no fish working that we could see; so we tried the usual collection of flies without luck. Then I tied on a Brook’s Montana Stonefly. I cast upstream so it would sink as much as possible. An 18-inch brown grabbed it and played with me until I could bring it in for the release. It wasn’t a big fish by Montana standards, but rest assured I’ll tie a few more Brook’s Montana Stoneflies.

One concern was getting the fly down quickly. Lots of options are available, but this one by Matt Minch looks pretty good. He tied the pictured fly at the 31st FFF Conclave and Show (1996) in Livingston. Matt has been fishing with a fly rod for over 55 years and commercial fly tying for about 30 years. He has fished from Pennsylvania to New Zealand, and now lives in Montana. He fishes and guides about 200 days a year and has plenty of opportunity to test fly patterns. This pattern has worked for him and his friends.

He told us this pattern was derived from two other patterns that were given to him by Jack Parker from Idaho Falls, ID. One was a pattern that Zack Parker, Jack’s son, had in the Patterns of the Masters, 1995 edition, page B11. Matt revised the patterns taking what he felt were the best features, added new materials, and then used Charlie Brook’s “tying-in-the-round” and came up with the Bead Brooks Stone.

He fishes it and its smaller version, Bead Golden Stone, with a short upstream cast and dead drift. A high rod technique lets him guide the nymph through holding water. Also he tries to get the fly as deep as possible.

Materials: Hook: Mustad 9672 or other 3XL hook, 4-8 Bead: 5/32” black brass for hook sizes 6 & 8; 3/16” for size 4 Thread: Black mono 3/0 Tail: Marabou fluff from dyed brown grizzly saddle Body: Black short flash chenille Hackle: Brown dyed grizzly saddle Thorax: Dark hare’s ear color squirrel dubbing from Spirit River Steps: 1. Pinch down barb, slip bead over point to eye of hook. Start thread behind bead and wind to rear of hook.

2. Tie in dyed brown grizzly marabou-like fluff. Make the tail a gap length long.

3. Tie in flash chenille at bend, wind thread forward about 2/3rds of the shank length, apply head cement liberally on thread wraps, wrap chenille forward to thread, secure and trim excess.

4. Tie in hackle, dub squirrel onto thread loosely and wind it forward to bead. Wrap hackle forward through dubbed thorax three or four turns, burying the hackle stem, and secure behind the bead. Trim excess hackle.

5. Put a little more squirrel dubbing on the thread and wrap it between the hackle and the bead. Whip finish. This secures the bead and covers any visible thread.

A Bead Golden Stone is tied the same way but using a smaller gold bead, yellow 6/0 thread, brown-olive flash chenille, antique gold dubbing on Mustad 9672 or equal hooks, sizes 8-12.

You now have two stonefly nymph patterns that can be fished in many situations.

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FINDING BIG NORTHERN PIKE

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ust about everyone wants to catch a big northern pike. A truly giant 40 plus inch fish. But why do most Pike lakes carry an abundance of smaller hammer handles and it is only the rare, undiscovered lake, reservoir, or river that holds only small numbers of truly large northern pike? And why do so few anglers actually break the 40 inch mark?

You have to ask yourself what is needed to grow big northern pike?

A lake must have adequate spawning areas to produce a self-sustaining northern pike population. There is little evidence, however, that a large population of small northern pike has any effect on the size to which northern pike ultimately grow.

Northern pike must have adequate food sources - primarily minnows, perch, suckers, whitefish and other fish of appropriate size. They also must have cool, well-oxygenated water to grow well.

Northern pike are a “cool-water” species, and research indicates that they stop feeding and even lose weight in the warm water and lower-oxygen conditions that occur in midsummer. So, if a lake is to grow big northern pike, it must have a cool-water refuge, such as deep, welloxygenated water, with a cool-water forage fish, such as whitefish.

Finally, big northern pike must have protection from anglers. No northern pike ever grew large in a baking dish or frying pan! Large northern pike simply are too few to endure heavy fishing pressure. Compare them to 370 or bigger Bull Elk and you can begin to get a picture. Big fish must be protected by remoteness, as they are in the Canadian backcountry, or by some form of catch-and-release regulations so that most big fish are returned to the water to grow even larger. Restricted harvest is the management approach that must be taken if you want to grow really large

BY NEAL M. COTE’ northern pike in the presence of heavy angling pressure. There is only one place in Montana that actually has followed a restricted size limit on Northern Pike. More on that later.

Now, where else in Montana can you find these truly large Northern Pike? First off, can you forget about the more public fishing areas that everyone knows about? To catch a truly huge Pike, you will have to get off the beaten path and follow some different tracks to your 40 incher.

LARGE BODIES OF WATER Fishing the largest watersheds that Northern Pike are in will allow you to possibly be able to catch fish that have not encountered heavy fishing pressure. These fisheries have all the right food, cover and spawning sites that produce large fish. They have the ability to grow Pike to the ages that make them large and fairly easy to catch, you just have to find them.

They also have literally tons of places that a big pike can call home, so you will have to cover vast areas of water to find them!!!

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Here is a list of my top Big Pike Places here in Montana: 1) Fort Peck Reservoir- 134 miles long, and over 1,520 miles of shoreline…longer than the California coast!!!! That is a lot of untouched area to find a truly monster pike in!!! Just take a look at some of the monsters that they catch in the spring while trying to get Walleye eggs!!!

2) Yellowstone River- the section from Billings to Sidney has thousand of sloughs that can hold some gigantic pike. Access is mostly by boat and there is little pressure.

3) Tongue River Reservoir-640 acres and home of the Montana state Northern Pike record.

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 17)

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Fishing With The Captain Mark Ward Another great lake that should be on the “I HAVE TO GO FISHING LIST THIS MONTH” should be Canyon Ferry Reservoir by Helena. The water level will be fluctuating quite a bit the first part of June because of the spring run-off. Canyon Ferry is a lake that I recommend to fish if you want to get started fishing for walleyes.

This lake and this month are a une is the time of the year that perfect combination. The walleye fishing really turns on all across bite on Canyon Ferry normally the state on the rivers and lakes. happens most of the month of This year with the high water that June. The south end of Canyon we will be experiencing in Montana Ferry is also mostly free of snags for at least the first part of June so you won’t get frustrated by lakes might be your best fishing constantly getting hung up while option. fishing. The lake on the south end is fairly easy to target walleyes I love to fish lakes and in June because they are biting on one of whether you are fishing for trout, the dykes that are also known as walleye, northern pike, bass, or ponds one –two –three-or four. lake trout the most challenging part Trolling with a bottom bouncer and of your fishing trip is where to go. a crawler spinner or leach harness is the most popular way to fish the Fort Peck Reservoir over in the walleyes. eastern part of the state is on the top of my list. The 134 mile lake The kokanee salmon fishing on has seen an increase in water Lake Mary Ronan should continue level the last couple of years. for at least a few days into June.

US CORP of Engineers has had That bite depends mostly on the water temperature. It is a pretty to increase its releases from the lake just west of Flathead Lake dam because of the spring run-off. The spillway at Fort Dam is and has a nice state boat ramp in use for the first time since 1997. to launch your boat. Anglers like to jig with a Swedish pimple and The predicted water elevation glow hook that is tipped with a at Fort Peck Reservoir for most maggot in 22-29 feet of water or of June will be above 2240 feet. troll cowbells with a wedding ring Higher water levels mean better tipped with a maggot about two or fishing pure and simple. The three colors deep. Anglers also have fishing experts are predicting an had luck using raw shrimp. excellent year for walleye fishing.

The northern pike population in the lake has also benefitted. Lake trout fishing has been good and will only get better with more anglers targeting them. Let’s also not forget that Fort Peck is also known as one of the best smallmouth Mark Ward is known as the Captain of bass fisheries in the region. It the Montana Outdoor Radio Show heard holds the state record for a small statewide every Saturday from 6am - 8am. mouth bass. The Crooked Creek boat ramp on the west end of Log onto: the lake is open this year. For www.montanaoutdoor.com to find a radio information on the fishing and station in your area. You can also read his road conditions call Bob at the Bait weekly column in the Thursday Shop in Winnet. (406-429-2086) Missoulian Outdoor section.

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Say Hello To Success: Where to chase the Fish this Month Fishing reports Wholesale Sports

All Montana Rivers & Streams Open For Fishing FLATHEAD LAKE

Nicholas With His Monster Rainbow Trout

CLARK FORK

ROCK CREEK

This river will be unfishable on the stretches around Missoula for most of if not all of the month. Fishing may improve towards the end of the month if the water levels drop and clear. And that’s a big “IF”. Lots of snow yet to melt out of the high country means run off will be an extended affair.

Caddis, yellow sallies, salmon flies and green drakes will emerge in June.

The section below Missoula is great for caddis and the section from Clinton to Turah gets a good hatch of salmon flies and some green drakes. Lets cross our fingers this river gets back into shape for some late June fishing.

It’s going to be some fast fishing on the creek this month. Once the river clears the volume is still going to make wade fishing a tough proposition.

Floats will be quick even if the rower is back rowing the whole time. Even in fast flows a well placed salmonfly cast tight to the bank and under willows will get the attention of hungry fish trying to rest in the slower water. Caddis flies, yellow sallies and PMDs should also show up by the end of the month if weather cooperates.

BLACK FOOT RIVER

The Bitterroot is dangerous and has sadly claimed more than its share of lives during high water. Plan on waiting until the flows start dropping steadily before trying to float. Even then be on the look out for new log jams and sweepers. Green drakes, PMDs and Caddis should bring the fish to the surface when the water recedes enough to make wading and floating an option again. The Forks should be fishable this month with the west becoming fishable before the east. They both get good hatches and along with that they get plenty of fishermen so don’t plan on having the place to yourself.

The Blackfoot will be a tough one in June. More than likely high water will make the Salmonfly hatch unfishable this year.

Hopefully the hatch will last into July and we can fish the tail end of the hatch. Streamer fishing can be epic if you can head to the river when the flows are dropping and it turns from brown to green.

Cone head wooly sculpins, Double Bunnies and Zonkers are good choices.

BITTERROOT RIVER

Perch fishing will slow down in June but there should still be some opportunities to catch a decent amount for the fryer. Try a small spoon, jig head or twist tail grub tipped with a maggot or piece of night crawler. The mackinaw fishing should be good in June as long as the weather cooperates. The month of May brought weather patterns that made it down right dangerous at times to be fishing on the lake. Jigging with Rattle D’Zastors, Glow Grubs, or Lead a Gators tipped with cutbait will pick up better numbers of the smaller fish. Trolling with Hoochies behind a dodger, Flatfish, Kwik Fish or Coyote spoons is a good way to target some of the larger fish

MISSOURI RIVER

Steady river flows in May provided good fishing, primarily with nymphs. June should pick up, in the latter part of the month as river flows slowly subside.

Known worldwide for great dry fly fishing, the Missouri will provide excellent fishing this summer. If you have not fished the Missouri before, consider hiring a guide.

Let the pros that fish it all year help you discover it’s treasures. It’s worth the price of admission.

UPPER MADISON Fishing reports are hit and miss on a daily basis right now, although you can expect things to steadily improve throughout the month of June. After a good hot weather system comes through, if we get one, you can expect it to be tough for a few days, and after that look out. The fish should be awesome, so be ready to hit the river as much as you can this month.

Stonefly imitations this time of the year work well, and don’t overlook trying worms and eggs as these can be good, depending on your fishing preference.

Some fly recommendations include: the Beadhead Twenty Incher, Peacock Anatomy and the Blooms Para Caddis.

YELLOWSTONE PARK The Madison and Firehole Rivers in the Park always offer up fine early season fishing just after the park opener. With a huge amount of thermal features on these two drainages high water is normal in the first few weeks but because of the higher water temps good hatches still tend to come off and the fish generally still are eager to feed on the surface. Expect to find Blue Winged Olives, Pale Morning Duns, and a few species of Caddis to be have the fish interested on both these fine streams throughout June. Salmonflies also will show on the Firehole in the canyon and work downstream through the Madison to the park boundary. This activity wains quickly so get on it within the first week to ten days of the month.

CANYON FERRY This month should start heating up for post-spawn trout and walleye.

For walleye, the most used methods seem to be trolling harness rigs tipped with crawlers or leeches.

Colors will vary considerably with changes in the weather so don’t be set on one color to produce time and again. Northlands real image perch Colorado style blades seem to produce good numbers time and again and are always a good bet.

Try setting up a few harnesses with these blades and Mustad slow death hooks. Remember, troll much slower for walleye than you do trout (1/2 to 1 mph). For the angler that likes a more hands on approach, jigging is always a good way to pass the time.

Berkley Gulp minnows and leeches on a quarter ounce jig or smaller seem to do the trick. Trolling for trout on the North end of the lake with cowbells usually produces this time of year.

Figuring out the right depth can be tricky, but once you’re there you’ll boat quite a few trout.

On a side note, the Canyon Ferry Carp Safari will be held on June 11th this year. Go to www.mtba.org for information.

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JUNE 2011

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HEBGEN LAKE One of the finest stillwaters in the country is right here in our backyard.

As the ice comes off the large rainbow and brown trout move into the shallows and cruise looking for small baitfish and chironomid pupae and adults to fatten up quickly. White, olive, and copper Zonkers as well as Bow River Buggers are excellent streamer patterns to strip through the shallows. A good selection of Mohair leeches is also a must.

Purple, red, black, brown, and olive are all color possibilities. Chironomid pupae is size #12 - #14. Again a good selection of colors and pattern choices pertain here. Dry fly fishing can be spectacular on calm mornings and evenings as these large fish sip large midge adults off the surface. I prefer a Zelon Mige or Parachute Adams to imitate this hatch in sizes #12 - #14.

HAUSER LAKE

Pulling Rapalas and other similar type lures seems to be the ticket here.

Black/silver and perch patterns seem to be a good go-to color. Expect good numbers of both walleye and trout to be caught using this method. Fishing near the dredge cuts with a leech and a slip bobber will also work. As long as the water temp doesn’t get too high Lake Helena should hold quite a few post-spawn walleyes and a handful of big brown trout. If you are looking for a fun new approach to fishing try fly fishing for carp. And marabou buggers or similar flies will do and carp can be a whole lot of fun to fight.

REGULATING RESERVOIR For consistent action, fish finders are a must. Kokanee are very sporadic in where they like to be in the water column. Trolling is a good idea and once you find a school anchor up and get to vertical jigging. A buckshot minnow tipped with corn or a maggot seems to work well once the fish have been located. As for trolling, use cowbells, kwikfish, flatfish, apex or the new P-Line UV enhanced baits.

HOLTER LAKE Vertical jigging through the gates will be your best bet at walleye. Find structure or gravel bottoms and get to work. As before, gulp minnows and leeches will work along with various marabou jigs. Marabou colors that consistently produce are perch and crawfish imitations. Trolling for trout can be very productive in the area in front of American Bar. Pull floating or tail-dancer Rapalas or similar type lures in a variety of colors. Also, trolling with cowbells will do the trick.

The main thing here is to try different things until you find something that works. Don’t be afraid to try something that no one else is using.

Just because it has worked in the past doesn’t mean it still will. The main objective is to have fun, right?

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This is a great month to be on Ft. Peck Reservoir. It’s finally starting to warm up and the fish are responding.

Walleye in all sizes are starting to come in and jigs and minnows are a good bet, as well as bottom bouncers and spinners. Some Northern Pike are starting to show up in good numbers as well. Lake Trout should begin to pick up in June too. There is no better way to spend a couple of days than fishing the Missouri River Breaks area and the vast waters of Ft. Peck Reservoir.

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16 • BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

Outdoor Calendar

RANCH

Fish For Rainbows, Browns, & Brookies NOW! Book today

BILLINGS ELK BASIN CROSS COUNTRY MOTORCYCLE RACE: JUNE 26

UPLAND BIRD HUNTING

This race covers more than 75 miles of hills, ravines and rock providing a mountain man challenge for those tough enough to finish. Phone: 406-656-9960

Book Now For September Thru March

ENNIS LIONS CLUB KIDS FATHER’S DAY FISHING DERBY: JUNE 19

Hunting!

This is a great day for kids and dads. Kids under 12 can catch ‘big’ fish in the little pond at the park while the dads act as fishing coaches. Prizes given for various age groups. Enjoy a delicious and free barbecue in the park, at 1:00pm, following the Fishing Derby. Phone: 406-682-5711

Stay in one of our 4 cabins on the ranch or our lodge in Augusta that sleeps 10.

HELENA DOUBLE DIVIDE RIDE: JUNE 18-19 Enjoy two days of cycling 139 miles (83 miles the first day, 56 miles the second) through rolling hills, tranquil valleys and challenging mountain passes.

Plus, the Double Divide Ride is famous for its outstanding food fare. Phone: 406-442-8142

birds@shocoranch.com www.shocoranch.com 406-562-3553 Remember to carry your bear spray when outdoors.

LEWISTOWN ED MCGIVERN MEMORIAL SHOOT: JUNE 10 -12

Approximately $25,000 in cash and prizes, special prizes for male/female and adult/child teams.

Held at the Silos Recreation Area.

Phone: 406-266-5582

Events To Support WILDLIFE MULE DEER FOUNDATION 6/16-19/2011 Townsend BSA Camporee RD Marshall Johnson marshall@muledeer.org 7/16/2011 Missoula Western Montana Chapter Gene Foster 406-218-9883 hirescue@aol.com NATIONAL WILD TURKEY FED. 7/16/2011 Helena Last Chance Gobblers George Carella 406-458-8677 lastchancegobblers@yahoo.com 7/29/2011 Kalispell NW Montana Longbeards Frank Brisendine 406-857-3711 ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUND. 06/11/11 West Yellowstone Yellowstone Taylor Fork Big Game Banquet

Kelli Delzer 406-995-389

JUNE 2011

is a dream come true for the fly rodder & angler that thrives on small stream fishing

Vendors will be selling art, antiques, books, clothing, jewelry and guns. With the waterslide just down the road and gun manufacturers, fabric store and shopping all within 5 minutes, there is something for everyone in Big Timber. Held at the Civic Center.

Phone: 406-932-5969

TOWNSEND CANYON FERRY WALLEYE FESTIVAL: JUNE 25-26

ON-LINE AT www.bigskyoutdoornews.net

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BIG TIMBER GUN SHOW: JUNE 10-12

Step back in time and join the Snowy Mountain Muzzleloaders and Re-Enactors at the Ed McGivern Memorial Park in beautiful Central Montana for an exciting weekend filled with activities of the mid-1800s. Phone: 406-428-2286 www.snowymountainmuzzleloaders.com

•

Grannis Fishing Access Site On The Shields River Opens MFWP M

ontana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is pleased to announce the opening of a new fishing access site providing access to the Shields River northeast of Livingston.

FWP entered into a perpetual easement with the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation for the approximately one-acre fishing access site near the Shields River on U.S. Highway 89 four miles north of Interstate 90. The site provides access across adjacent DNRC land to the river.

FWP recently developed a parking area for six vehicles on Highway 89 at mile marker four and installed signs outlining the site’s regulations.

“This is the first developed public access site on the Shields River and a great example of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ commitment to providing public access to the state’s fish and wildlife resources,” said FWP Commissioner Dan Vermillion.

TOM STEINBRENNER AND HIS FAMILY WITH SOME OF THEIR CATCH ON A RECENT FISHING TRIP ON THE COLUMBIA RIVER

Spring Chinook Fishery Open On The Lower Columbia River WASHINGTON DEPT. FISH & WILDLIFE

W ith thousands of spring chinook salmon now moving up fish ladders at Bonneville Dam, fishery managers from Washington and Oregon have opened the popular salmon fishery on the lower Columbia River through June 15.

Boat and bank anglers can fish for hatchery-reared spring chinook salmon from Rocky Point/Tongue Point upriver to Beacon Rock. Bank fishing will also be allowed four miles farther upriver to the fishing boundary below Bonneville Dam. Anglers can retain one hatchery-reared adult chinook salmon as part of their daily limit. All wild chinook not marked as hatchery fish by a clipped adipose fin must be released unharmed.

In areas open to spring chinook fishing, anglers may also retain sockeye salmon and hatchery steelhead under regulations outlined in the Fishing in Washington rules pamphlet.

Since late April, the number of chinook salmon passing Bonneville Dam has increased dramatically, opening the door to additional fishing opportunities, said Cindy LeFleur, Columbia River policy coordinator for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).

Under the updated run forecast, anglers fishing below Bonneville Dam can catch up to 3,800 more upriver spring chinook, including some still available from the initial fishing season that ended April 19.

The late timing of this year’s run, together with cold, turbid water conditions, held the total catch during the early fishery below the area harvest guideline.

Additional fish also became available to anglers this week when fishery managers lifted a 30 percent “buffer” on the pre-season forecast, designed as a safeguard against overharvesting the run. Now that run forecast has been raised, those fish are available for harvest.

“The surge of fish that contributed to the new forecast provides a lot more certainty in setting fishing seasons on the Columbia River,” LeFleur said.

LeFleur noted that the decision to reopen the spring chinook fishery on the lower river does not apply to waters above Bonneville Dam or to the Snake River.

On May 11, state and tribal fishery managers raised their initial estimate of upriver-bound spring chinook from 198,400 fish to 210,000 fish, making thousands more chinook salmon available for harvest on the lower river.

The Columbia River fishery above Bonneville Dam closed May 10 after anglers reached their catch allocation under the new run forecast. On the Snake River, spring chinook fishing will close below Ice Harbor Dam May 14 and on the rest of the river May 16. There, too, anglers are expected to reach their current catch allocation after a stretch of good fishing.

“The fish took their time moving upriver, but they’re making up for it now,” LeFleur said. “This opening will give anglers another chance to catch spring chinook on the lower river.”

“We may consider reopening fisheries in those areas if strong returns of spring chinook salmon keep bumping up the run forecast,” LeFleur said. “But that will be a separate decision.”

JUNE 2011

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BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

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Montana ‘11 Fishing Regulations Finding Big Northern Pike (Continued from page 11) Revised MFWP 4) Lower Clark Fork River- from has tons of little pike, doesn’t Paradise to Thompson Falls, rule it out as a holder of a 40 W ith the opening of Montana’s Northern pike limits in the upper there are many backwaters and incher. The odds can fall either general fishing season, come a set of Missouri River and reservoirs upstream regulation changes for 2011.

WESTERN FISHING DISTRICT Changes in the fishing regulations in the Western District generally were made to trout possession limits.

Bull trout harvest on Lake Koocanusa is only allowed by those in possession of a bull trout catch card. The annual harvest of two bull trout has been reduced to one bull trout.

Lake trout harvest on Flathead has been increased to 100 daily and in possession.

On the nonwilderness portion of the Middle Fork Flathead River drainage and on the North Fork Flathead River, the combined trout limit is five daily and in possession. The restriction of only one trout over 14 inches was dropped on these waters.

On Georgetown Lake the catch and release restriction on brook trout has been dropped, and now two brook trout may be kept within the daily combined trout limit of five daily and in possession.

On Rogers Lake, the one per day harvest restriction on arctic grayling was removed, and grayling are now part of the district-wide combined trout limit.

CENTRAL FISHING DISTRICT On Canyon Ferry Reservoir and on the Missouri River between the reservoir and Toston Dam, fishing for brown trout is catch and release only now, except anglers 14 years of age and younger may keep one brown trout of any size daily and in possession. Also on both of these waters, the walleye limit has been dropped to 10 daily, with no more than four over 16 inches and only one over 28 inches.

The possession limit is twice the daily limit.

from Holter Dam, and in the three tributaries to the Missouri—the Gallatin, Jefferson, and Madison river below Ennis Dam—have been liberalized. There is no limit on northern pike.

From Canyon Ferry Dam to Hauser Dam, including Hauser Reservoir and Lake Helena, the walleye limit increased to 20 daily. Only one walleye may be over 28 inches. The yellow perch limit decreased to 25 daily.

From Hauser Dam to Holter Dam, the walleye limit increased to 10 daily, and all fish between 20 and 28 inches must be released. The yellow perch limit on Holter Reservoir has been decreased to 25 daily.

In the Missouri, from Holter Dam to Cascade Bridge, there is no limit on walleye. From Cascade Bridge to Black Eagle Dam, the walleye limit is 20 daily and 40 in possession.

On the Yellowstone River, from the Yellowstone National Park boundary to I-90 bridge at Billings, a slot limit is now in place allowing for four brown and rainbow trout daily, including three under 18 inches and one over 26 inches.

All fish between 18 and 26 inches must be released.

EASTERN FISHING DISTRICT On the Yellowstone River between the I-90 bridge in Billings and the Huntley Diversion Dam, the restriction on fishing with two hooks and two lines was eliminated.

The 2011 fishing regulations are available at FWP offices, license providers and on the FWP website at fwp.mt.gov on the Fishing page.

sloughs that could hold a 40 inch fish. Food is there for them and some of the harder to reach places can be reached by boat.

Access is limited for the bank anglers, so that will up your odds some.

way, and i f you get lucky, there probably is one or two large fish in each of these fisheries.

5) Flathead River- from the south end of Flathead Lake to where it dumps into the Clark Fork has plenty of hidden spots for large Northerns, but it is fairly well known so most of the truly big fish are cyclic due to fishing harvest. From the Confederated Salish Kootenai Reservation boundary near Perma to Flathead Lake you can find the only place in Western Montana where a smaller limit and a size limit help manage Northern Pike.

OTHER PLACES After all else fails, fish waters that have Northerns, but are not well suited to them. Pike can be found in lots of local rivers and lakes near you, and are not on anyone’s radar until a report of a “Big” one gets out in the newspapers or at the local sporting goods store. A classic example is Smith Lake and a new line class record last year.

6) Noxon Reservoir- At 6,130 acres, Noxon is a VERY big piece of water!!! From Thompson Falls in the east to the dam near the town of Noxon, I think if I had to pick a big Pike spot, this is it!

Lots of water and various types of habitat that could produce a huge pike any given day. Access isn’t easy without a boat, and if you figure on fishing an acre or two a day, that will take a very long time.

SMALLER WATERS Now, the other path is to fish waters that are known to have really good numbers of smaller Pike. The list is very long and ranges from Lonepine reservoir in Western Montana to Dry Fork reservoir near Lewistown and everywhere in between.

Just because a body of water

The hard part is to weed thru all the smaller fish to get to Momma, but hey, is that so bad?!!

Although Northern Pike get a bad rap, they are really fun to catch and will self regulate themselves if you let them. One big female Pike left in a spot will eat anywhere from 5-50 young of the year Pike per season. She is now too big to chase faster food fish, and will basically eliminate the smaller Pike in her location.

If she stays there, she can keep the smaller Pike that are able decimate a trout population in check and go undetected for years until some lucky angler comes and finds her.

Will that angler be you? If it is, get a good picture and put her back so she can keep doing her job!!! Oh, and if you could take a few of those smaller pike out of there for the table, they will taste better and you can help to balance the fishery.

Good Luck, and once you get that 40 incher, there is always 45…….46……47………

18 • BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

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Shot Placement

BY S.L. MERRIAM Western Mule Deer was shot with a .44 magnum, .280 Grain, Swift A Frame Bullet at 95-yards.

The bullet impacted the shoulder blade, passed through, got both lungs, and lay under the hide on the opposite side in a perfect mushroom shape. The retrieved bullet weighed 270 grains. usually require re-sighting the rifle for the different load. Different bullets and loads generate different forces that affect accuracy – change either variable and you change the point of impact.

E

very hunter has a responsibility to make quick kills with accurate shots that lead to a quick recovery. Accurate shot placement is the key to both and requires knowledge of the firearm, its limitations, and your own. If you are going to take a 400-yard shot, do so only if you have practiced at 400-yards and understand the amount of holdover required to compensate for bullet drop with your particular rifle and bullet combination.

Accuracy and correct shot placement has improved since factory ammunition, now available over the counter, provides bullet weights and loads previously enjoyed only by the hand loader. Better ammo makes for better accuracy but remember to hunt with the same bullets used to sight-in your rifle.

Using a different type of ammunition will

To create a simple way for hunters to discover the correct load for their gun, in a cost efficient manner, stores could repackage ammo well before the hunting season into “Sight-in” packets.

These offerings would be made up of three shells of a single caliber with similar weight bullets, a set from each manufacturer. This would allow the hunter to not only sight-in his gun but also determine which load his gun likes best. Once the best load is found he can purchase a number of regular 20-round boxes for final sight-in and actual hunting. Hand loaders follow a similar process by loading and testing different powder and bullet combinations until they find the exact mix their gun likes best.

Pre-season is the time to determine accuracy and finding the exact combination your gun prefers can make a huge difference when shooting longer distances and accuracy determines shot placement options.

Once you find a factory load that shoots

it is to your advantage to buy 10 boxes so that your rifle will always have that exact load available for hunting. This will also reduce the shells needed to check zero the following year if all components stay the same.

Once a gun shoots at its top potential it is time to focus on shot placement. A bi-lateral-pnuemo-thorax is the preferred shot – that’s a double lung hit for those that don’t work in an Emergency Room.

When both lungs have a bullet pass through, either with an arrow, muzzleloader, pistol, or rifle bullet, the outcome is guaranteed. The animal will expire. A standing broadside shot is preferred but an angling shot that allows the bullet to pass through both lungs will work. Aiming for the opposite-side shoulder on animals facing away from you or through the shoulder to the opposite side on animals quartering toward you will achieve the same result.

Rifle bullets kill game by creating shock and tissue damage and should be able to pass through heavy bone to reach vital organs.

Hunting deer with muzzle loading rifles or pistols is popular but presents special shot placement considerations because of the slower, heavy bullets that are used.

Shot placement is just as important as choosing the right firearm as well as choosing the right bullet for the job.

A bullet of the correct weight, fired from an adequate firearm will break the shoulder and enter the lungs or heart. A neck shot will drop an animal instantly with no meat damage, but should only be used if you are proficient with your firearm and that is the only shot you may have. Head shots should be avoided.

It is just as important to learn about the anatomy of deer as it is to learn about their habits. Lacking a general knowledge of anatomy, one cannot expect to have a quick kill. It is your responsibility to be quick and lethal each time you pull the trigger.

JUNE 2011

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BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

• 19

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Raffles and Drawings Available For ‘11 Colorado Statewide Pronghorn License, Colorado Statewide Deer License & New Mexico Lt. Governor’s Deer Enhancement License Mule Deer Foundation

F or the fifth consecutive year, MDF is conducting raffles for premiere hunting opportunities in Colorado. This year, the 2011 Colorado Statewide Pronghorn License and the 2011 Colorado Statewide Deer License will be prizes in two separate raffles. Net proceeds will be used by the Colorado Division of Wildlife for conservation projects which benefit big game and other wildlife species in Colorado.

The pronghorn drawing will be on Sat., June 25, 2011, at Sportsman’s Warehouse in Grand Junction, Colo. The deer drawing will be held Sun., June 26, 2011, at Bass Pro Shops in Denver, Colo.

Order forms by mail must be received no later than by June 24, 2011.

For questions, call Jon Nestor at 970-618-0105.

For the eighth consecutive year MDF is selling tickets and conducting a raffle for the New Mexico Lt. Governor’s Deer Enhancement License. Assisting the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish with this effort is the MDF Northern New Mexico Chapter of Santa Fe, N.M. The drawing will take place on June 29, 2011 at 12:00 noon at the New Mexico Game & Fish Office in Santa Fe, NM. The deadline for receiving payment and ticket orders via USPS mail or e-mail is June 25, 2011.

Only phone orders with credit card may be made after June 25, 2011 by calling Scott Hampel at 720-261-6232.

First SuperTag Deadline Is June MFWP H unters don’t miss out on a chance to win a super hunt by

purchasing one or more Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ $5 SuperTag chances for the fall 2011 hunting season.

The deadlines to purchase SuperTags are: June 30—moose, bighorn sheep and mountain goat July 28—deer, elk, antelope, bison, and mountain lion Each year, drawings for eight

SuperTag licenses occur. Chances can be purchased as gifts for friends or family members Winners may hunt any district open to the species for which they won a tag. SuperTag proceeds go to enhance hunting access and boost FWP enforcement efforts. A 2011 conservation license is necessary to purchase a SuperTag. SuperTags are available at all FWP offices and license providers.

Information about FWP’s SuperTag lottery, deadlines, and how to purchase the $5 chances is also available online at fwp.mt.gov.

Click “SuperTag”.

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20 • BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

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8571 Running W. Rd.Missoula, MT. 59808 Phone: (406) 549-4171

Clearwater Crossing Campground visitmt.com

Activities offered: Backcountry camping Bear hunting primitive campground with Big game 3 overnight campsites located along Bird hunting the West Fork of Fish Creek.

Bird watching Fishing and hiking may be enjoyed Bowhunting here. Clearwater Crossing serves as a Deer hunting trailhead for several trails that access Elk hunting the Great Burn proposed wilderness Fishing area. It has restrooms, drinking water Fly fishing in the summer, and stock facilities.

Hiking Pets are allowed if on a leash. This is a Horseback riding pack it in, pack it out campsite. Gas is Picnicking available within 25 miles of this site.

Stream fishing No camping fee.

Tent camping Upland bird hunting Season: Wildlife viewing All Year Lolo National Forest Services offered: 20325 Remount Road Campsite Huson, MT 59846 Established fire pits Handicapped accessible Phone: 406-626-5201 Horse corral Parking Directions: From Interstate 90, take Pets allowed the Exit 343 at Fish Creek. Take Fish Picnic tables Creek Road 343 to intersection with Toilets Road 7750. Follow 7750 to dead end Trail at Clearwater Crossing Campground.

Water

The Clearwater Crossing Campground and Trailhead is a

Food Storage Requirements on the Lolo National Forest A food storage order signed in 2011 requires food storage practice across the Forest to reduce the potential for human-wildlife encounters.

Food, carcasses, and attractants must be stored in a bear-resistant container or stored in a bear-resistant manner if they are unattended. In the front country (most of the Forest) these same items must also be stored in camp at night, unless they are being consumed, prepared for transport or storage. In some limited backcountry areas on the Ninemile and Seeley Lake Ranger Districts during the night these items may be attended instead of stored. For specific information on the new order and to view specific locations of backcountry and frontcountry areas for each district, please see the Lolo National Forest webpage for food storage.

Grilled Rainbow Trout

From Cooking Backyard to Backcountry by John Rittel and Lori Rittel, M.S., R.D. 8 rainbow trout, cleaned 1 t dried parsley 2 eggs 1/2 t allspice 2 T half-and-half 8 strips broiled bacon 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1. Beat eggs and blend with half-and-half, garlic, and spices.

2. Dip the fish in mixture, coating the fish inside and out. Place broiled bacon in cavity of each fish.

3. Place fish on lightly oiled grill 4-6 inches above coals.

4. Cook for 15 minutes, turning once.

Enjoy!

Grilled Corn On The Cob T he shucks protect the corn from the intense heat, keeping the kernels moist and tender while the corn cooks in its own steam. Buy corn on the cob with shucks intact.

1. Gently pull back the husks, but don’t remove from stalk.

2. Remove the silks and cut off the tip of the corn.

3. Re-wrap the husks over the ears of the corn.

4. Place corn, shucks and all, on a hot grill 6-8 inches from coals and grill

Fresh sweet corn on the cob husks intact Butter Salt and pepper to taste for 30-40 minutes.

5. Rotate periodically during grilling.

6. Serve with softened butter, salt and pepper or try the fresh lime variation.

JUNE 2011

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For your safety: Always wear a helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Never ride on public roads or pavement. Avoid high speed turns or abrupt maneuvers. Be extra careful on difficult terrain. Protect the environment and obey all laws and regulations that control the use of this vehicle. ©2010 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. 11TSPT12X21C

Hiking Hanging Vigilante Valley Trail #247 USFS Campground

USFS

T his National Recreation Trail is one This pack-it-in/pack-it-out site of the most unique and spectacular trails features picnic tables, toilets, and in the Helena area. Hikers will want to take plenty of water on this hike. There is an elevation gain of approximately 1400 feet in the first 3 miles to trail junction #248. Then an additional 440 feet before the trail starts a descent to the scenic overlook.

Hanging Valley formed when the main river cut a lower bed or channel faster than a side stream leaving the side stream ‘hanging’ high above it. There are different types of vegetation in this moist valley (including lichen) and cliffs and spires as the valley widens.

trailheads for the 12-mile (round-trip) Hanging Valley National Recreation Trail #247 and the Trout Creek Canyon Trail #270 that is handicapped accessible for the first mile. Brochures for the Trout Creek Canyon Trail are available at the trailhead and at the Helena Ranger District.

Located approximately 24 miles northeast of Helena in the Big Belt Mountains. Follow Highway 280 east of Helena about 16 miles to the small community of York. Proceed northeast along Trout Creek another 8 miles to the end of the road and the campground.

Proceed to the back of the Vigilante $5.00/night camping fee Campground (directions on right), to access the trail; a sign shows where the Open: Memorial Day - September trail begins in a heavily timbered draw at the northeast side of the campground.

Facilities: 18 sites with tables

Riding On Lava Mountain Trail #244 USFS T his eight mile trail was originally developed as a motorized Off-Road-Vehicle trail and is enjoyed by mountain bike enthusiasts as well. The trail is wide in areas and has several steep segments. It also provides access to the Cataract Basin on the Deerlodge National Forest.

Directions: The trailhead is approximately 1 mile north of Park Lake Campground which is approximately 45 minutes southwest of Helena. Proceed south of Helena 10 miles on I-15 to the Clancy exit. Then travel west on the Lump Gulch Road about 7 miles to the intersection with the Corral Gulch Road. Follow the Corral Gulch Road approximately 6 miles west and south to Park Lake.

For more information contact the Helena National Forest office at 406-449-5201.

ATV Rides

WMTRA

WMTRA is not responsible for rides listed. All rides are organized and led by individual club members and not by the club itself.

June 17 - June 19 Capital Trail Vehicle Association Fun Ride Hellgate Camping Area East side of Canyon Ferry Reservoir Contact: capitaltrail@gmail.com June 18 Montana Hope Project Tide Lake Mary Ronan Contact: Roger Tulberg 406-240-1910 June 25 Haugen-Salteese Contact: Scott Swan 406-239-9809 July 10 Amborse Creek/Sapphire Mountains Contact: Jason 546-7995 July 18 - July 23 High Mountain ATV Association Annual ATV Jamboree Wallace, ID. Contact: Scott Swan 406-239-9809 If your organization has an ATV ride they would like to include, please email us at bigskyoutdoornews@yahoo.com

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JUNE 2011

Join The Boone and Crockett Club Today! Just $35.00 Year.

You don’t have to have a trophy in the records book to join the Boone and Crockett Club, just a passion for big game and the desire to keep hunting them.

Join online at www.booneandcrockettclub.com or call 406.542.1888 HUNT FAIR CHASE Sherri Harris of Stevensville with her ‘10 Mule Deer Scored 174 Kim McCormick of Stevensville with her 2011 Spring Gobbler

Becky Burg of Florence with her 1st Mountain Lion

Successful Antelope Hunter

John Benda of Superior with his Gordon Setters “Idah and Toot” after a Pheasant hunt on the Flathead Indian reservation

Andrew Basabe of Helena with his Idaho Elk

Have A Hunting Photo You Would Like To Submit? e-mail: bigskyoutdoornews@yahoo.com

Don’t wait! Sign-up for our Summer Camps!

Sign-up closes July 11th

Women’s Hunter Education Course Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Ranch

Outdoor Adventure Camp Wildlife Conservation Camp

July 31st - August 5th, 2011 Youth ages 14 -17 (or entering grades 9th -12th) Topics include conservation ethics, species diversity, habitat management, population ecology, predator–prey interactions, capture and census techniques, animal and plant identification, hunting as a management tool, hunter safety, shooting and fishing skills.

Outdoor Adventure Camp Outdoor Skills Camp

August 7th - 10th, 2011 Youth ages 10 -13 (or entering grades 5th - 9th) Campers will use digital cameras, GPS units, maps and compass to gather and analyze their experiences on the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Ranch and adjacent public lands.

For more information or to register call 406-472-3311

August 26th & 27th, 2011 Women 18 years and older Topics for the course include: Wildlife Conservation and Hunting Ethics, Hunting Laws and Regulations, Firearms and Firearms Instruction, Preparing for a Hunt, Target Shoot with a shotgun and rifle, Identify Montana Wildlife.

Participants take the hunter education test at the end of the course to receive certification. The test for certification as a Hunter in Montana and test review is included at the closing of the day.

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The Future Of Montana’s Big Game Animals is in Your Hands!

There’s never been a more important time for you to FIGHT for your hunting and fishing rights. Complete this application today and Join Montana Sportsmen for Fish & Wildlife!

Name: Address: City:

St.:

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MONTANA SPORTSMEN FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE ENSURE YOUR HUNTING F FUTURE! UTURE! 8 membership levels!

membership includes quarterly subscription to Sportsmen’s Voice magazine (4 issues), annual membership card, window decal , MTSFW ball cap and welcome letter from the MTSFW President, Bill Merrill

Zip: Phone:

Signature: How did you hear about us?

June 2011

Youth 1-21 $12.00/yr Return this application with Individual $35.00/yr. payment to: Family $50.00/yr.

Lifetime Senior 60+ $350.00 MTSFW Lifetime Individual $750.00 P.O. Box 2243 The Spike $350.00/yr Missoula, MT. 59806 Satellite Bull $500.00/yr Herd Bull $750.00/yr To preserve, protect and enhance Montana’s fish and wildlife resources & outdoor opportunities.

And to ensure our American heritage of hunting, fishing and trapping through hands-on conservation efforts and RESPONSIBLE PREDATOR MANAGEMENT by Montana sportsmen.

MONTANA SPORTSMEN FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE OFFICIAL MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION or join online at www.mt-sfw.org

Common Sense Conservation

There’s and old moniker that if there’s smoke, there’s probably fire. The saying

is very true and usually holds water when used in the right context. That is becoming increasingly evident with some so called “Conservation Organizations” and many “Environmental Groups”.

I read today where Center for Bio Diversity is suing Earth Guardians over listing and additional 400+ species under federal protection. I guess they are tired of suing the government as that well is running dry and real groups like SFW and a few others have brought the fight to congress to regain State Management of our wildlife.

They have no one to blame but themselves for not standing down on the gray wolf issue when virtually every wolf biologist and the like said wolves were indeed recovered as early as 2004 in many areas in the northern Rockies.

This week the head of Defenders of Wildlife – Roger Schlickeisen publicly attacked Big Game Forever and SFW in particular in a press release with these comments, “The proposed legislation introduced by Rep. Miller and backed by extremist groups like Sportsmen for Fish and Wildlife and Big Game forever shows what a dangerous path we are on. Congress made itself vulnerable to this type of outrageous action by stripping protections for Northern Rockies gray wolves as part of last month’s budget deal. Now it’s up to those who value our commitment to good stewardship of our nation’s imperiled wildlife to put a stop to this nonsense..”

What an idiot this man obviously is to even put that into print. This is good and bad.

Good for the fact that he recognizes we are the enemy and our approach is the approach of a super-majority of Montanan’s and Western Americans. “Common Sense” conservation as I call it is here to stay from this day forward. Real conservationists are indeed the Sportsmen, Fishermen and Hunters of our state. Millions of dollars trickle into the economy annually thanks to these folks, not to mention the funding our FWP receives annually from the Pittman-Robertson funds to manage our wildlife. We also seek to work with small business and take into consideration the local economies and adverse effects the decisions we make may have. These folks take into consideration the lost revenue on their next paycheck or which lawsuit they can’t file at the moment.

This is bad that he probably truly believes he’s a steward by saving only the gray wolf and like predators as our herds dwindle and our Ranching and Ag communities suffer massive losses. Their only agenda is “their own”. Continue litigation, and bilk bored housewives in California, New York, Connecticut and Vermont out of Millions with fuzzy wolf puppy posters. Oh and $1.5 billion taxpayer dollars in frivolous lawsuits since 2003. That is amongst his group and several others suing the government. That is their full time job. They are seemingly not involved in doing much of anything for any other species as far as I can tell.

Kudos to SFW, Big Game Forever, RMEF, MDF, SCI and a host of other real conservation groups for calling their bluff

BY BILL MERRILL, STATE PRESIDENT/CO-FOUNDER MT-SFW

and holding them accountable for their greed, lies, deceit, and down-right stupidity to move this to the congressional arena.

Had they only followed the agreements set in 1995 by the Feds, Ranchers, Sportsmen and their own Eco groups, “Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood” would not be crumbling around him now. Eco-Clowns are suing each other and whining about real conservation being led by the likes of Dennis Rehberg - MT, R – Matheson - UT, Senator Hatch – UT, and R-Candace Miller of Michigan. These are indeed common sense legislators and so are all who are cosponsoring their respective bills.

They’ve awakened the super-majority of smart American’s here in the west to push for state’s rights and our sovereignty to manage our wildlife. I’m pretty sure the Feds don’t have the money to manage and list another 600 species right now. They can’t even balance their own check book and now the old “US Credit Card” is maxed out. So Roger’s group can pay for that or come up with better science to justify that expenditure to continue filling his pocket.

Federal Government, Here’s a hint; it called living within your means. Don’t spend what you don’t have, and take care of what you have now. That’s what we are doing with our public lands and Wildlife herds and our Agricultural, Wool, and Cattle industries in Montana. All the while the Eco groups and some weak legislators see fit to try and punish us for this at every turn.

Maybe the feds should take a look at Wyoming and Montana and the way we

live? It’s called hard work for an honest wage and taking care of what you love dearly and fighting the good fight when push comes to shove. Destroyers of Wildlife and the Center for Bio Adversity are only now beginning to see the tip of the sword that is the American Sportsmen. They’ll soon see the rest as we continue to organize and mobilize. It’s a long and sharp sword.

God help them if they keep this idiocy up in the courts. I’m proud to be called an extremist when it comes to working (on a volunteer basis mind you) for wildlife and our western hunting heritage.

Let’s have Roger and I compare paychecks from our respective organizations in the name of “Conservation” and see who’s in it for the money shall we? Their state office is in Bozeman and we are in Missoula, yet I see no projects or bills in Helena from DOW to save the Elk herds in the W. Fork of the Bitterroot or to put a stop to the carnage in the Gardner area Elk herd, which is right in his back yard.

I’ll start Roger; I’ve taken zero dollars from SFW donors, members, ranchers, and corporate sponsors to bring the fight to congress, our state legislature and FWP to use “Common Sense”. Your turn…

SFW is committed to sovereign state rights to hunt, fish and trap on our public lands in Montana as well as protect our sheep, cattle and domestic pets from predation.

I encourage you to become a member of Montana SFW through the above membership card or at www.mt-sfw.org. All contributions are tax deductible.

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JUNE 2011

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Terry Resident Convicted In Poaching Of Bull Elk Near Miles City MFWP

On October 11, 2010 Montana Fish,

Wildlife and Parks game wardens received information that there was a fresh elk carcass close to mile marker 18 on Highway 12 between Miles City and Baker, MT. Wardens determined the elk had been shot and the head and antlers removed. The remaining carcass was left to rot.

An investigation was initiated which resulted in the prosecution of Jeff Poucher of Terry, MT. During the investigation Mr. Poucher admitted to having poached the six point bull elk for its head and antlers. The incident occurred while Mr. Poucher was traveling to an antelope hunt when he saw the bull elk cross the highway.

Poucher reacted illegally and poached the bull elk.

Additional charges were filed against Poucher from crimes discovered during the investigation which included over limits of buck deer and antelope.

Mr. Poucher was charged with three counts of unlawful possession of game animals and one count of wasting big game. He plead guilty to several charges and received $2,140.00 in fines and restitution and his hunting, fishing and trapping privileges were revoked for three years.

Antelope And Deer Hunting Opportunities Reduced MFWP W

ith more than 1,000 antelope already known to have succumbed to northern Montana’s brutal winter, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is cautioning hunters early to expect significant reductions in antelope permits and quotas this fall.

“We know for sure—just from casual observation—that more than 1,000 antelope have died along Montana Hi-Line from Malta to Glasgow,” said Quentin Kujala, FWP’s wildlife management supervisor in Helena. “We’re also sure the region lost hundreds of deer to winterkill.”

The temperature dipped below minus-35 degrees for days at time along the Hi-Line last winter and the area set a record for snowfall, charting more than 105 inches of snow, which made it often impossible for wildlife to find forage. Additionally, hundreds of antelope that tried to find refuge along snow-cleared railroad tracks were killed by trains.

While FWP doesn’t estimate the number of deer and antelope that die over winter, it does estimate the number of animals that remain on the prairie each spring and summer.

FWP biologists are now flying over deer trend areas for those counts and the annual antelope surveys are set for early July.

With that trend information in the books, biologists will then propose license quotas for the upcoming season.

“We’re a few months away from having our antelope and deer population estimates complete,” Kujala said, “but we want hunters who annually plan trips to northern and eastern Montana to understand why we’re expecting population declines and thus fewer permits in 2011.”

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IF&G Has Resumed Wolf Management IDAHO FISH AND GAME

Fish and Game has resumed the lead for resolving conflicts with wolves, and the agency will once again issue permits to control problem wolves.

S ince resuming wolf management earlier this month, Idaho Fish and Game already has initiated several actions across the state.

Six control actions have been authorized in response to livestock depredations.

Fish and Game has resumed the lead for resolving conflicts with wolves, and the agency will once again issue permits to control problem wolves. Fish and Game also has resumed responding to livestock depredation by wolves. Regional supervisors can authorize wolf control actions, which typically peak in the summer.

Most control actions would be carried out

by Wildlife Services, but sport hunters may be used in future depredation hunts to help resolve wolf conflicts in localized areas, similar to the way deer and elk crop depredation hunts are conducted.

In 2010, Wildlife Services confirmed that wolves killed 75 cattle, 148 sheep, two horses and one domestic bison. In addition, 14 cattle, 30 sheep and one livestock guard dog were considered probable wolf kills.

In the Lolo elk management zone in

north-central Idaho, Fish and Game is putting into action a wolf control plan, outlined in an earlier plan submitted to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under the Endangered Species Act’s section 10(j). The plan is a commitment and an incremental effort to manage for 20 to 30 wolves in the Lolo zone until elk herds recover.

Current research shows excessive elk mortality caused by wolf predation continues in the Lolo zone.

Control efforts were initiated immediately in the Lolo zone to reduce wolf numbers before the elk calving season, and it will help survival of last year’s calves as well as adult cows.

Fish and Game has authorized licensed outfitters to take any wolves they encounter incidental to spring black bear hunts in units 10 and 12, which comprise the Lolo zone. The effort will continue through June 30.

In addition, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services removed five wolves in the Lolo Zone by helicopter. The control action has been suspended indefinitely until conditions improve.

Wolves in the Lolo zone are currently at lower elevations where the snow is gone, and even with radio collars, they are hard to see under tree cover.

In addition, Fish and Game biologists are developing monitoring strategies to ensure the best possible population information is collected. Fish and Game will have the lead for monitoring wolves across most of Idaho, with the Nez Perce Tribe providing collaborative assistance in north-central Idaho.

The Fish and Game commission is expected to set seasons for a fall hunting season at the July 28 meeting in Salmon.

JUNE 2011

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FWP Seeks Comment On 2011 Wolf Hunting Season MFWP M

ontana’s Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission is seeking comment on a wolf hunt proposed for the 2011 season.

Based in part on lessons learned from the state’s first regulated wolf hunt in 2009, FWP wildlife managers propose to create 14 wolf management units and an overall harvest quota of 220 wolves.

Commissioners approved a harvest quota of 186 wolves across 13 wolf management units for the 2010 season, which was blocked by a federal court.

“This season proposal is very similar to the season considered last year and it’s one that is properly balanced,” said Ken McDonald, FWP’s chief of wildlife.

McDonald explained that the state’s 14 WMUs are generally situated in the western portion of Montana to target areas where impacts on elk and deer populations have occurred and where recurring livestock depredations are predicted. A new WMU is proposed to be added in the Bitterroot Valley where wolves have contributed to a significant drop in the elk population.

“We carved out smaller-sized wolf management units to allow for a more widely distributed harvest,” McDonald said.

In addition, subquotas are proposed in three areas to limit harvest during early season backcountry hunts, including the area directly north of Yellowstone National Park. Wildlife managers also asked the commission to consider a wolf archery season to run Sept.

3 through Oct. 16, which coincides with Montana’s deer and elk archery seasons.

McDonald said a harvest quota of 220 is projected to reduce the wolf population to a minimum of 425 wolves, or by about 25 percent. These projections include anticipated reductions due to livestock depredation and mortalities from other events, like accidents and natural causes.

PUBLIC COMMENTS ON THE 2011 WOLF SEASON PROPOSAL ARE DUE BY 5 P.M. ON JUNE 20.

Final quotas and seasons will be adopted by the FWP Commission on July 14. Send comments beginning Friday, May 13 via FWP’s website at fwp.mt.gov . Click “For Hunters”. Or mail to FWP Wildlife Bureau, Attn: Public Comment, P.O. Box 200701, Helena, MT 59620-0701.

2011 Wolf Season Basics ·Wolf Management Units & Quotas— Northwestern and central Montana would have nine WMUs with a total quota of 123 wolves; western Montana would have two WMUs with a total quota of 54 wolves; and the three proposed WMUs in the southwestern portion of the state would have a total quota of 43 wolves. Two of Montana’s 14 WMUs would stretch across the eastern portion of the state. ·Wolf Hunting Season Dates—Wolf hunting seasons would correspond to Montana’s early backcountry big game hunting season, which runs Sept. 3—14 for archery and Sept. 15—Nov. 27 for rifle hunting; and the big game archery and general rifle seasons set for Sept. 3—Oct. 16 and Oct. 22—Nov. 27 respectively.

Wolf seasons could run through Dec. 31 if quotas are not reached. Hunting licenses will cost $19 for residents and $350 for nonresidents. License sales should begin in August.

Montana Wolf Season Background ·In 2009, during Montana’s first ever regulated wolf hunt, hunters harvested 72 wolves during the fall hunting season. As hunters approached the overall harvest quota of 75 wolves, FWP closed the hunt about two weeks before the season was scheduled to end to ensure the quota would not be exceeded.

Warren D. Kennedy

Typical American Elk 261 261-3/8 -3/8 Sheridan County County,, MT. 200 2008 8 ·Montana’s 2010 hunting season was blocked by a federal court ruling in August 2010 that returned wolves to the federal endangered species list. ·On April 15 the U.S. Congress enacted a new federal law that provided for the delisting of wolves in Montana and Idaho—and in portions of Washington, Oregon and Utah. The law authorizes Montana to manage wolves under the state’s federally approved Gray Wolf Conservation and Management Plan.

Federal Wolf Recovery Goal for the Northern Rockies & Current Population ·The recovery goal for wolves in the northern Rocky Mountains was set at a minimum of 30 breeding pairs— successfully reproducing wolf packs—and a minimum of 300 individual wolves for at least three consecutive years. ·This goal was achieved in 2002, and the wolf population has increased every year since. The northern Rockies’ “metapopulation” is comprised of wolf populations in Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming. ·Today, about 1,650 wolves in 244 packs and about 111 breeding pairs, live in the region, where wolves can travel about freely to join existing packs or form new packs. This, combined with wolf populations in Canada and Alaska, assures genetic diversity.

Montana’s Wolf Population ·In Montana, officials estimate that at least 566 wolves, in 108 verified packs, and 35 breeding pairs inhabited the state at the end of 2010. ·Delisting allows Montana to manage wolves in a manner similar to how bears, mountain lions and other wildlife species are managed, guided completely by state management plans and laws. ·To learn more about Montana’s wolf population, visit FWP online at fwp. mt.gov. Click “Montana Wolves”.

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JUNE 2011

A Hunt For The Ghost Ram Of The Chugach Mountains H

By Kyle Davidson

unting in Alaska is unique because hunters don’t need the luck of the draw or require dozens of preference points to draw a sheep tag. Several mountain ranges have good sheep populations that await the prepared hunter. After doing a mountain of research I felt that I was ready to tackle hunting Dall rams in the Chugach Mountains. After reading every sheep book I could get my hands on I narrowed down where I wanted to hunt. I talked to biologist, successful sheep hunters and anyone who had current information on Dall sheep.

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A good friend of mine had been on several sheep hunts and had harvested some nice rams during the previous years. I consulted with my friend and he invited me to accompany him on a hunt he was planning in the Chugach Mountains. This was a great opportunity because it would give me the chance to learn from an experienced sheep hunter and I jumped at the chance.

During our pre-hunt planning we finalized our gear list and made last minute plans. My friend, Steve, would fly in on August 6th and I would follow on the 10th. Steve had already harvested several nice rams and he was going to be picky when it came to harvesting a trophy ram.

My goal was to harvest the first legal sheep I could find. For most of my life hunting Dall sheep seemed like a far-fetched dream. I wouldn’t pass a legal ram.

On August 6th Steve flew in and contacted me via satellite phone once he was in camp. On the morning of August 10th I met our pilot, and the weather was good enough to fly into the mountains. With clear skies I relaxed and enjoyed the flight.

During our approach to the camp I could see Steve perched above camp spotting for sheep.

During my first hour at camp a group of rams made their way down the mountain. We studied the oldest one in the group and determined that he was legal. In Alaska, a ram is considered legal if he has full curled horns, both horns can be broomed at the tips or he must be eight years or older based on counting the annuli rings on the horn. We confirmed the ram was legal by counting his annuli rings. Unfortunately, I couldn’t shoot him since I had just flown in. The rams eventually bedded down and we decided to go after them in the morning.

The next morning we headed out after the rams and discovered that they had left the area. We moved to a location we had picked to start glassing. After a few hours we made it to the top of the mountain and crawled over the top to look at the other side. After cresting the ridge we were surprised that the rams were feeding directly below us. We didn’t have a good approach route to them and they moved up the other side of the basin and bedded on the opposite side of the mountain.

(CONTINUED)

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We watched the rams for a few hours before they stood up and moved down the mountainside. We sidestepped on the shale to get into position. It was difficult trying to stay quiet since rocks and shale fell with each step we made. We finally got around the side of the mountain and looked down to a small ledge where we thought the rams went.

As we neared the ledge we dropped our packs and I got my rifle ready.

We peered over the ledge and were shocked to learn that the rams had vanished. We began the long hike back to camp.

Steve identified the ram he wanted.

We set up the scopes and began monitoring the rams waiting on them to make a mistake.

The “ghost” ram and his companions disappeared. The two bedded rams got up and moved higher into an extremely rough area of the mountain.

Eventually the smaller of the two rams moved down the mountain while the bigger one climbed higher.

They continued to look at each other and we assumed the smaller ram would join the bigger one heading for higher ground. To our surprise

You can’t walk every mountain but you can glass them. Searching the drainages around timberline where the white rams show up on the dark background.

Their white color makes glassing even more of an advantage because it glows for miles and miles. the older ram headed back down the mountain. This was the time to make our move.

Steve decided that he would head for camp and that I should stay on the ledge. From the view below he would be able to glass the side of the mountain and see if the rams were still in the area. When he reached the bottom he signaled that he spotted the rams. He retraced his tracks and we picked up the stalk again.

We got to within five hundred yards of the rams and thought we knew where they were headed. We moved closer and watched the rams disappear behind a ledge and I prepared for the shot, but the rams never appeared.

The only other direction the rams could travel was across an open area on the other side of the drainage. We looked at the far end of the ledge and saw the rams exit on a dead sprint and watched silently as the rams disappeared in the distance. Tired and frustrated we headed back to camp.

The next morning we headed to the drainage where we spotted several rams the day before. We reached the top and found ourselves looking into another bowl, and I spotted a ram coming out of the bowl. It was the ram we saw the day before - the “ghost” of the Chugach. We set up behind a rock and watched the rams to see where they went. Steve spotted two rams bedded on the opposite mountain.

After looking at them we determined they were both legal and

We waited for both rams to clear a portion of the mountain that would give us some cover. As they moved out of sight we sprinted across the side of the mountain where the rams were headed. We were in a perfect position as we closed in on the unsuspecting rams. We moved closer and noticed what we thought was one of our rams coming out of the bottom to our left. We turned toward the ram and quickly noticed he wasn’t our ram as we saw both of the original rams spook back up the mountain.

I set up quickly and attempted to steady my rifle on a rock. Steve quickly got into shooting position as well and squeezed off his first shot hitting his ram dropping him quickly.

Unfortunately, I suffered a complete case of sheep fever and missed. I watched in disgust as my first chance on a good ram faded away.

My disgust was temporary because Steve’s ram was down. We moved quickly to the ram and admired the incredible animal – he was 11 years old and had started to broom his horn tips on both sides. We took pictures and began field dressing the ram. We planned on getting him back to camp and hunting the following afternoon after some much needed rest.

We were almost finished caping the ram when Steve told me to turn around and look up. Standing high (CONTINUED ON PAGE 29)

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RMEF

C onserving and enhancing wildlife habitat, plus research on the combined impacts of wolves and drought on elk populations, headline a list of Wyoming projects slated to receive 2011 grants from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

The new RMEF funding totals $344,078 and affects 16 counties.

Several projects have statewide interest and one extends beyond Wyoming borders and across the northwestern U.S. “We’re especially pleased to support several large conservation easements in Wyoming this year, including several that secure hunting access on both private and public lands,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “The habitat projects that we’re funding this year could add well over 60,000 acres to the 954,612 acres that we’ve previously helped to conserve or enhance for wildlife in Wyoming.”

Nationally, RMEF hopes to impact about 100,000 acres in 2011 to reach the 6 million-acre lifetime mark in lands conserved or enhanced for elk and other wildlife.

Allen thanked RMEF volunteers and fundraiser attendees for building the organization’s grant coffers in Wyoming, saying, “Because of their amazing passion and generous support, a major conservation milestone is within reach.”

RMEF grants will help fund the following 2011 projects, listed by county: Albany County--Improve habitat for elk, mule deer, pronghorn antelope and bighorn sheep by prescribe burning and/or masticating 2,907 acres in the Iron Mountain area (also affects Platte and Laramie counties).

Big Horn County--Prescribe burn 500 acres of juniper and sagebrush, and chemically treat 200 acres of cheatgrass, as part of an ongoing project to improve elk habitat in the Devil’s Canyon area of BLM lands; remove encroaching conifer to enhance a 25-acre aspen stand in the Brokenback drainage of the Bighorn Mountains.

Carbon County--Improve forage quality for elk and other wildlife by prescribe burning up to 5,000 acres in the Ferris Mountains area of BLM lands; prescribe burn up to 9,000 acres of public and private rangelands needed to support a regional elk herd in the Seminoe Mountains area; install wildlife friendly fencing and livestock watering troughs to enhance riparian areas important to elk in the Dry Cow Reservoir area of BLM lands; mow 400 acres of sagebrush, remove juniper from 100 acres, treat 100 acres of noxious weeds and install fencing to improve livestock grazing rotation and enhance habitat to support a regional elk herd in the Platte Valley; thin conifer encroachment to enhance 400 acres of habitat in the Sierra Madre/Little Snake River area of BLM lands.

Fremont County--Replace 17.8 miles of woven wire with wildlife friendly fencing, develop water sources and other enhancements to control livestock in elk habitat in the Red Canyon Ranch area of the Shoshone National Forest; install pipeline to improve irrigation efficiency for habitat management at Red Canyon Wildlife Management Area.

Lincoln County--Continue ongoing project to treat noxious weeds, using herbicides and bio-controls (insects) to improve 405 acres of habitat for elk in the Greys River area of Bridger-Teton National Forest; treat noxious weeds along 28 miles of backcountry trails in Bridger-Teton National Forest, assist Wyoming Game and Fish Department in acquiring a conservation easement to protect wildlife habitat on 2,200 acres and secure access to large tracts of public lands near Fontenelle Creek.

Natrona County--Assist partners in purchasing a conservation easement to permanently protect 19,000 acres of private land and secure hunting access on 20,000 acres of public land (also affects Fremont County).

Park County--Mechanically treat or prescribe burn 70 acres of juniper, Douglas fir and sagebrush to improve forage for elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, sage grouse and other species in the Breteche Creek area of BLM lands; continue ongoing research project to study effects of wolf predation on elk nutrition, fat gain and pregnancy rates in the Absaroka area; conduct aerial surveys of elk calf recruitment between migratory and non-migratory elk herds in the Cody area.

Sheridan County--As part of an ongoing project to improve habitat for elk, deer and pronghorn antelope on state lands on the east slope of the Bighorn Mountains, prescribe burn 200 acres in the Amsden Creek, Bud Love, Ed O. Taylor or Kerns wildlife habitat management areas (also affects Johnson County).

Statewide--Provide support for a research project to evaluate influence of drought and predation on elk survival across the northwestern U.S.; provide support for the Wyoming Game and Fish Department annual expo, Sept. 8-10, 2011, to build public understanding of conservation; provide support for the Wyoming 4-H Shooting Sports Program, with emphasis on volunteer training in Converse County, to introduce youths and families to outdoor recreation; sponsor Wyoming Game and Fish Department “Access Yes” program to secure access for hunters and anglers on private lands; provide support for purchasing training tools for Wyoming Game and Fish Department hunter education activities.

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 30)

JUNE 2011

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A Hunt For The Ghost Ram Of The Chugach Mountains (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27)

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above us on the mountain was the “ghost” ram and his three companions. Steve whispered, “When he goes out of sight we’re going to climb the mountain and shoot him.” The rams were out of sight in a moment and we headed up the hill to cut them off. We reached the top and found the rams feeding on an opposite ridge. I took a steady rest and Steve ranged the ram as I struggled to keep the cross hairs steady. I settled down and zeroed in as the ram fed away from us - I knew it was now or never. I squeezed the trigger and watched the ram lunge forward and roll over.

My ram was down and I was overcome with excitement.

Directions: 9 miles west of Absarokee on Hwy 420.

hoped to come back for my ram the following morning and pack him out. We made it half way back to camp before deciding to stop because of the darkness. Both of us had slipped several times and had heavy loads in our packs. Tired and restless we reluctantly bundled up and fell asleep under the stars.

The following morning we spent most of the day getting our rams and equipment back to camp. We called our pilot and told him we would have everything back to the airstrip for an early flight out. It was a grueling day, but it was well worth it. The physical training, planning, and persistence paid off We made our way across the glacier and I had a trophy ram. After flying and up the mountainside to my ram. out we headed to a local diner for a much anticipated steak. As we It was an incredible feeling walkenjoyed our meal we began talking ing up and holding his horns in my about next year’s hunt and before hands. He wasn’t a huge ram, but we knew it the addictive cycle of he was a trophy to me. He was 9 years old which made him a mature sheep hunting had come full circle.

With one hunt ending the next ram. With darkness setting in, we caped him and headed back to finish adventure was just beginning.

Steve’s ram and get back to camp. I

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JUNE 2011

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Sighting In Your New Scope (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7) Now adjust the windage, right or left. You need to move the point of impact two inches to the right, which at 100-yards would require eight clicks. At 25-yards that means 32 clicks (8 x 4 = 32) so turn the windage adjustment 32 clicks to the right (usually marked “R” on most scopes).

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Wyoming Habitat, Research Projects Earn RMEF Grants (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28) Sublette County--Continue Wyoming Front Aspen Restoration project to improve wildlife habitat on public and timber company lands; assist Wyoming Game and Fish Department in purchasing a conservation easement to ensure the future of wildlife habitat on 10,000 acres near Big Piney; evaluate the influence of supplemental feeding on elk migration timing, foraging and habitat selection.

Sweetwater County--Build 8.25 miles of wildlife friendly fencing to manage livestock grazing in riparian and other areas of concern for elk, deer and Colorado River cutthroat in the Currant Creek area of BLM lands.

supports a regional elk herd on the west slope of the Bighorn Mountains.

Weston County--Assist Wyoming Game and Fish in purchasing a conservation easement to protect 3,036 acres of habitat for elk, turkeys, deer, mountain lions, raptors and songbirds in the Black Hills area.

Projects are selected for grants using science-based criteria and a committee of RMEF volunteers and staff along with representatives from partnering agencies and universities.

Partners for 2011 projects in Wyoming include the Bureau of Land Management Teton County--Cut and skid conifers to (BLM), National Park Service, Natural improve forest health, reduce fuels and Resources Conservation Service, increase aspen cover in elk range near University of Wyoming, U.S. Forest Dry Quad area of Bridger-Teton Service, U.S. Geological Survey, Wyoming National Forest; prescribe burn 2,201 Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research acres to enhance forest health in the Hill Unit, Wyoming Game and Fish Creek area of Caribou-Targhee National Commission, Wyoming Game and Fish Forest; prescribe burn 100 acres of Department, Wyoming Governor’s Big lodgepole pine and Douglas fir to Game License Coalition, Wyoming Stock improve aspen, grass and shrub habitat Growers Agricultural Land Trust, in the Buffalo Valley area of Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resource Bridger-Teton National Forest; provide Trust, other agencies, tribes, organizations, support for an RMEF-award winning corporations and landowners. public education campaign regarding elk Since 1985, RMEF and its partners have winter ranges and public closures (also completed 454 different conservation affects Lincoln County). and education projects in Wyoming with Washakie County--Prescribe burn 300 a combined value of more than $87.7 acres to improve winter range that million.

Now fire one more shot at the 25-yard target. Ideally, if the scope’s adjustments are accurate, it should hit within a half inch of your crosshair markings. If it does, your preliminary 25-yard sighting is close enough. No need to waste ammunition getting it perfect. You will do that at 100-yards.

If the second shot was not within an inch of the center of the target, you will have to adjust the scope again. By the third or fourth shot and continued adjustment of the scope each successive bullet hole should be moving towards dead center.

If it is not, something is probably wrong with the scope or mounts. Check the scope mount screws to make sure they are tight - there should be absolutely no movement of the scope under recoil. All the screws should have been torqued down using Loc-Tite on the threads.

Once the rifle is hitting less than an inch from the point of aim at 25-yards it will be on the paper at 100-yards. With luck it has only taken two or three shots to achieve this. The rifle’s barrel is probably not too hot, your shoulder is still in good shape, and you haven’t wasted a lot of ammunition. Now move the target back to the 100-yard mark. If you have one overlaid with one-inch grid lines it makes it easier to see how far your bullet holes are from the point of aim using your spotting scope. This saves a lot of steps when shooting at 100-yards.

Wait until your rifle barrel has cooled to the touch then get back into position and remember to close your eyes before you shoot to check for a perfect, tension free hold. This time you will fire three shots, slowly and very carefully, at the exact center of the 100-yard target. Now estimate the center point of impact for the three bullet holes. If you have an accurate rifle and shot it well, they should be within a three-inch or smaller group somewhere on the 100-yard target. For most typical long-range rifle calibers, that group size works well for deer, elk, and antelope.

The correct sighting-in procedure is to adjust the scope in only one direction at a time. Scope adjustments frequently interact with each other even though they should not, but in the real world they may.

Change only one adjustment at a time and the effect is minimized. Move the elevation adjustment four clicks, for each inch of movement in the “down” direction.

Now shoot another three-shot group, making sure the barrel has time to cool between shots. Did the center of the group move so that it is now 2.5-inches over the point of aim? If it did, that is good enough; if not, you will have to make another elevation adjustment and shoot another three-shot group. This is where a good scope with precise adjustments really justifies its higher price. Once the elevation is correct and the center of your group is the necessary 2.5-inches above the point of aim, go on to the windage adjustment. The rifle in our example is hitting 1.5-inches to the right, so move the center of the group 1.5-inches, or six clicks to the left. After the barrel has cooled, fire three more shots, always holding on the exact center of target. If all went well, the rifle should now be putting bullets 2.5-inches directly over the center of the target. In most western deer rifle calibers that will provide a ‘dead on’ hold out to 200 or 250 yards, which is usually just right for the wide-open country of northwest Colorado. A ‘dead on’ hold means you can hold on the animal vitals without worrying about bullet drop out to that range.

For precise accuracy make a ‘dead on’ target with your computer draw program or with a big sheet of paper and a black marker. Make heavy crosshairs and place a half-inch dot 2.5 inches above the cross hair center. This is where the last three shot group should be centered. If you brought enough ammunition, shoot a final five-shot group to insure that everything is as it should be.

Congratulations, your rifle is now correctly sighted-in. You have probably used about a box of cartridges to complete the sight-in process for your rifle.

That’s a small expense to guarantee a tag gets filled!

JUNE 2011

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JUNE 2011

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JUNE 2011

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Getting Your Bucks In A Row

BY ROGER ROAN

I’ve been asked by

fellow hunters, “What can I do during the summer to increase my chances of harvesting a mature buck in the fall?”

For many hunters, it’s hard to get

excited about fall hunting when it seems so far away and temperatures are better suited to swimming than hunting. But, for those who tend to think about hunting whenever we see a tree here are some things we can do to keep up with the anticipation.

There are several chores you can perform that will add opportunity and success to your hunting experience for years. I’ve found that the more I control the elements of the hunt then the better I’ve increased my chances for success. Knowing how deer use your land is a key factor in each planned hunt - there are factors you can control and those you can’t. Whitetail habitat falls into four basic categories: bedding areas, travel corridors and primary and secondary food sources.

Most of the property that I hunt falls into the category of travel corridors and may have pieces of the other habitat factors if I’m lucky.

Print off an aerial photograph of your hunting property or sketch it out on paper. Draw in all the trails that deer use as they pass through the area and look for common, heavily used trails and those that intersect. Identify the secondary food sources like honey suckle, white oaks or persimmons that may be scattered along the maze of trails. I use this information along with prevailing wind data to locate my stand sites and the routes I take to and from my stand. Once you’ve located your stand site use the debris you clear from the trails to block other lesser used, meandering trails. The goal is to provide 50 to 100 yards of unobstructed trail leading up to and past your stand.

Use the cleared debris such as limbs, small logs and brush to obstruct other trails. Attempt to lessen the number of desirable paths to travel that remain outside your effective shooting lanes.

By straightening the trails past my stand site and clearing obstructions that cause deer to zigzag through my property I can create the path of least resistance that whitetails prefer to use.

Don’t be afraid to change or clear a

more direct route for the deer to use in midsummer months - build it and they’ll use it this fall. Engineer a “passive pinch-point” that deer will use especially if you direct it toward a natural path or a seasonal or secondary food source like a white oak flat or a persimmon grove. I have often cleared a path to my tree stand and found that deer use it in place of the tangled trail they were using. ATV trails can quickly become primary whitetail travel corridors which allow them to move quietly as they search for food and bedding areas.

By controlling how deer move through your property from point A to point B along with blocking or eliminating points C, D and E you can select a perfect stand location. I have gone so far as to fix holes in old, rusted field fences to eliminate the number of spots where whitetails can cross. Don’t hesitate to pack in a chain saw, a push mower or garden tiller to create a travel corridor. You can plant food plots along your man made deer highway for added effectiveness. Don’t clear too much brush because deer still want to feel secluded. Just make a defined path of least resistance and add some resistance to others trails that don’t offer a good approach or shot opportunity. Deer will adjust to the easier avenue you’ve provided.

The small corridors you build will prevent whitetails from crossing your scent line on a meandering trail as they make their way past your stand site.

The groomed trails are also excellent places to set up trail cameras and allow you access to them without leaving human scent in the area as you travel to and from your camera or stand site.

If you’re hunting area doesn’t have a natural pinch point or funnel area you can construct one or enhance an existing spot with a little landscaping.

When does start traveling the straight and narrow paths you’ve created the bucks will soon follow as they move about looking for does in estrus.

Walking the straight and narrow will always give you a better point of view.

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(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5) Another tool for the diligent hunter doing some detailed research is the big game population objective report. Few people ever find these stats, but they are posted in the minutes of the May workshops on the Wildlife Commission page. I have included the page for May 2010 as at the time of this article, the 2011 information will not have been published. You not only get the population information, but by looking at the % above or below the long term objective you can get an idea of whether it is a thriving herd; way over objective or an unproductive herd that is struggling to fill the available habitat.

Another statistic I like to look at is how hunter numbers vary by season: In many units, 2nd season is twice as popular as 3rd season. However, in units with good low elevation access, 3rd season can be more popular. The graph at the right shows the variance of hunters per season in 2010. You can get a feel for the number of hunters in the field during the mid seasons and understand the pressure on the elk during that time frame each year.

When you consider the unit you plan to hunt you ask some similar questions.

Look at how the limited 1st and 4th seasons may vary. Are there more licenses available for purchase in 1st or 4th season? If it’s equal, that may indicate that weather is not an issue affecting the harvest. If you think you’ll be in deer habitat, look at the number of deer hunters. You won’t know what the other hunters in the area are hunting, but they will add pressure to the elk, even if they are hunting deer. If you’re an archer, don’t forget to look at the muzzleloader hunter numbers if you plan to hunt during the middle of September.

For more advanced statistical research, do not just take a one-year look at the unit.

Because lightly hunted units tend to have small sample sizes in the harvest survey, they are likely to show great variability so you may not get an accurate look with just one year’s worth of data. The statistics are a projection of the harvest based on

DAVID HANNIGAN a limited sample. I prefer to take a five-year look at any unit that draws my attention. To illustrate the danger of a one-year look at a lightly hunted unit, check out unit 861, which had a 69% success rate during 1st season in 2009, then dropped to just 8% in 2010. Weather is a variable that may affect harvest statistics. In some areas, snows may help to force the elk down into areas that are accessible by hunters, in others; snows might make the elk unreachable by the hunter. I’ve tried to correlate weather events with hunter success in the past, but it’s difficult and incredibly tedious. If you don’t want to be reliant on weather, good or bad, keep an eye out for areas whose success rates are fairly consistent.

MAPS Keep in mind that private land hunting can inflate success rates so another important tool to use in conjunction with your statistical research is an atlas that shows the public and private lands in Colorado. The Roads of Colorado atlas shows the private in-holdings within Forest Service administrative boundaries. If an area is predominately private land, but you plan to hunt on the small parcels of public lands, don’t expect to see the 40+% success rates apply to your group. Another important aspect of land ownership is the mix of elevations that are available on the public hunting lands.

If the only public lands are down low in the winter range, you probably don’t want to hunt that area during the early seasons.

Conversely, you don’t want to hunt in the late seasons in an area which only has high elevation public land.

I generally won’t apply for an area until I’ve looked at something better than an atlas. I enjoy map research and am fortunate that the USGS map center is located in Lakewood, Colo. Nearly every map produced by the government is available for sale there. When looking over those maps, I can get a better idea of road access to public lands, where the private in-holdings are that may create undesirable refuge situations, and where campgrounds or other features are located. (CONTINUED)

JUNE 2011

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BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

• 35

RESOURCES FOR PLANNING YOUR COLORADO HUNT The Forest Service maps will also show you where ATVs are allowed on trails and where highway vehicles are prohibited.

The Natural Diversity Information Source, or NDIS, is a free interactive mapping system available through the Division of Wildlife. With it you can view land ownership, aerial photos and game distribution maps.

Another free resource that can be useful when acquiring private land tags, or when researching a ranch or outfitter, is a digital plat map. Many counties now have maps available for free online, or you can visit the county courthouse and use their reference library to find the information about the land and landowner. You can search where a certain landowner’s properties are located, or you can determine who owns a specific parcel of land.

Google Earth is another great tool. You can get aerial photos of the area of interest for free, plus you can tilt the viewing angles to create a 3-D affect.

With enough study, you’ll easily recognize some of the major land features when you finally set foot in your hunting unit. I also like to look at the embedded photos left by hikers, hunters and photographers to get an idea of what the landscapes look like from the ground and also to verify the major types of habitat.

LITERATURE The Colorado State University library has a wealth of elk hunting information from past studies. Want to know how elk movements are affected by ATV traffic versus human traffic? There’s a study on that. Did you wonder how those elk concentration maps were made? There are numerous studies looking at big game distributions with place names and maps and other detailed location information. Would you like to know what forage species to focus on in November in your hunting area?

There have been studies done on that too.

Some of these studies are also available through Inter-Library Loan, so even if you don’t live in Colorado, you can often get your hands on these materials.

FIRST HAND INFORMATION There’s nothing better than first hand information or having someone available to respond to a specific question. The Division now has hunt planners (303-291-PLAN) who can help answer your questions, in addition to field staff such as biologists and District Wildlife Managers. The U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management offices also have biologists, law enforcement personnel and recreation specialists who may be able to offer you some advice or answer a question. These people are great sources of information, but they should not be your sole resource. Look for other local resources such as the FEDEX driver,

local County Sheriff, U.S. Postal Carrier or waste management driver. Stop at the local diner for a cup of coffee and piece of pie to meet some of the local people.

Many rural Colorado towns rely on hunter dollars as a boost to the local economy and in many cases are willing to help you find successful hunting in their area.

A new source of free information is online hunting forums. On the larger sites, there’s a good chance that someone has hunted the unit you are interested in and is willing to share advice and pictures of the area. Once again, if they are giving you information in a public forum, they are also giving that information out to the whole world. Search engines will often pick up older forum topics, and you can find people whose brains you can pick via private messages if you’d rather keep your area of interest a secret.

WEATHER Will it snow in the high country? Is it going to rain? How hot has it been? Is the area in a drought? Weather is one of the most fretted about aspects of a hunt, and there are information sources to answer most of your questions. The National Weather Service (NWS) is useful for looking at forecasts and recent histories.

NWS also gives a point forecast so you can see adjust the forecast to the mountains outside of the town you are interested in.

Other useful tools are the National Interagency Fire Center and the Natural Resources Conservation Service Snotel sites. NRCS Snotel is especially useful for timing a late season hunt. Many units have month-long late cow seasons due to the variability of the weather. If there isn’t enough snow to drive the elk down into accessible hunting areas, you may be wasting your time. Since we know it takes 16 inches of snow to force elk into their wintering grounds (from past elk research), you can use the NRCS Snotel information from the mountain nearest where you plan to hunt to see if there is sufficient snow to force elk down lower.

You can also use it to help determine the elevations you should be hunting at before you arrive. The National Interagency Fire Center is a site I watch throughout the summer.

Fire perimeter maps are downloadable in Google Earth format. They can help you figure out why there are no elk in your old spot and can help you pinpoint areas with fresh new grass growth. Using weather research to keep an eye on drought information can help determine whether you need to be hunting closer to permanent water, or whether all the intermittent streams in your area will be running.

The Colorado Division of Wildlife does not specifically endorse any of the vendors, outfitters or websites mentioned in this article. They are provided as examples of the resource information available to the public.

36 • BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

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JUNE 2011

Bob Ward & Sons New Gear Review Each month we select several products that are brand new to the market and may appeal to our Montana readers and customers.

Rocky Mountain Rafts High quality at an affordable price

Founded in 2007 in Colorado Springs, Rocky Mountain Rafts has quickly made a name for themselves with their high quality rafts Whether paddling, rowing or fishing, Rocky Mountain Rafts can outfit you with a package to meet your needs. All rafts are constructed with 1100 Denier PVC and have hot air welded, overlapping seams with seam tape both inside and out for tough, air tight seams.

All products have Leafield valves, some of the best in the industry. Their self bailing rafts have fast bailing, laced in floors, found only in the highest quality boats.

Rocky Mountain Raft company is a company that stands behind their work with 5 year warranties to private owners and 3 year warranties for commercial owners.

Check one out today for yourself. See these 13’ and 14’ self bailing rafts at your nearest Bob Ward’s store.

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The ALL NEW Carnage Bow From Bear Archery The Bear Carnage is the next evolution of Bear engineering and

craftsmanship. The Carnage is the fastest, smoothest and most efficient bow Bear has introduced to date. Speed, power, smoothness, and efficiency is what makes the Bear Carnage the new PERFECT KILLER. With Bear’s ultra-tough Max Pre-Load Limbs, you get maximum power without the bow stacking up during draw. While competitors’ cams waste a large percentage of energy that is loaded during draw – the E-Cam transfers all available energy to the arrow for maximum kinetic energy down range. And what makes it so smooth? The E-cam rotates effortlessly on two sealed ball bearings, while Bear’s proven asymmetric power track further decreases friction during draw and increases cable life. Built with a new, longer, more forgiving riser, the Carnage is a bow that improves your aim and increases your accuracy. You won’t want to miss this bow. See one of the Archery Pros at a Bob Ward & Sons location near you for more information on the Carnage.

New to Bob Ward’s: Allen Fishing Accessories Keep Your Rod & Gear Protected With Allen Co.’s Cascade Rod & Gear Bag

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If you are looking for a superior product to protect your valuable fly rod and gear, consider the new 6365 Cascade Rod and Gear Bag.

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JUNE 2011

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S

cent Free System

B

By Bob Humphrey

ig game animals like deer, bear and elk have an exceptionally keen sense of smell, which they use to detect danger. In order to be consistently successful hunting them, you need to reduce human and other foreign odors to the maximum extent possible. This requires a complete scent control system.

It begins at the source. Human odor is largely the result of bacteria. Bathing with scent-free soap washes away bacteria, their odorous by-products and the dead skin and other organic debris they feed upon, temporarily. Mike Jordan of ATSKO, makers of Sport Wash, strongly recommends using a soap that leaves no residue.

Most shampoos and soaps, even some designed specifically to eliminate odor, contain non-cleaning additives like moisturizers, perfumes and vitamins.

“At best, some of these proteins, oils and other compounds may aid dry skin or provide a pleasant smell, but they are left behind on the skin and hair,” says Jordan. They also have an odor that is easily detected by a deer’s keen nose.

In time, the soap’s active ingredients wear out and bacteria reform. This is why you also need to spray yourself with a scent-suppressing solution like Hunter’s Specialties’ Scent-A-Way. And don’t forget to spray down your equipment as well. You can also eliminate reformation of odor-causing bacteria by wearing a base layer that is topically treated with an anti-microbial solution. This helps mitigate odor by wicking the perspiration into the fabric, where odor-causing bacteria are destroyed by anti-microbials.

All of the above will handle bacteria and its by-products, but your body still emits odor-causing anaphylactic acids that none of the soaps can touch. That’s why you need to wear odor-absorbing, carbon-impregnated outer layer like Scent-Lok or Scent Blocker. You can enhance that further with the very latest in odor control technology. Portable ionization machines convert stable oxygen molecules into supercharged molecule bundles that are lethal to all forms of bacteria, virus, mold, mildew, fungus and other odor-causing micro-organisms.

In addition to washing your body you also need to wash your clothes, and again use a soap that leaves no residue (or fabric brighteners). Once clean, you want to keep your hunting clothes odor free for as long as possible by storing them in an airtight, scent-free container. And leave them there until you’re ready to hunt. That means you wear your street clothes in the truck, and on your ATV. Don’t change into your hunting clothes until you’re ready to go afoot.

When it comes to scent control, some folks are lax, which probably explains their lack of success. Others go to great lengths with some aspects; but even that’s not enough. You’ve got to address all forms and sources of odor. Think of your scent control system as a drive train. One weak link and the machine won’t run.

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38 • BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

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JUNE 2011

PRO SHOP RETAIL SALES REPAIRS / TUNING CUSTOM STRINGS SEMINARS LESSONS

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2011 BITTERROOT VALLEY

Bowhunting Tips: 5 Shooting Tips Sponsored by Bitterroot Valley Archery

The archery big game season is fast approaching. Early Antelope will be open

and practice out of the blind. This will help a ton and it simulate real hunting conditions. Take a buddy and make it fun by having a shooting contest. This will help you tune your shooting skills.

What are you doing to make your hunt better than last season? I know that it is on my mind all of the time. How can I become a better bowhunter?

3. Practice estimating distance: Probably the most important thing to practice is distance. A range finder will definitely help. Many times if an animal comes in fast, you won’t have time to be exact as to how far it is away. Last season I had a nice bull moving around me, and I finally called him into a close range. He was in the tress moving closer, and soon came into an opening broadside, but he looked too far away to me. I didn’t take that shot, as he moved off. I later ranged that shot at 77 yards. Probably would have not been a good shot for me and I knew it. So bottom line is, practice at 30 or 40 yards and get good at it. Know what 40 yards looks like in the field. It can be very deceiving at times. Again, practice those shots and try to estimate distances.

in the middle of August, soon thereafter, the Elk rut will begin here in Montana.

Whether you’re a longtime bowhunter or have just got into shooting a bow, you probably already know or are beginning to find out what kind of effort goes into getting a good shot at the game you are hunting.

I have come to realize that in my opinion, it’s preparation before the hunt even starts that is the most important. Many things have to go right for you to get a quality shot at any animal. Off-season bowhunting practice is the only way to get good at shooting accurately and making that shot count in the field when you get it.

Here are a few tips to consider in the next few weeks as you prepare for the hunt:

SPORTSMAN’S EXPO

1. Keep your shooting muscles in shape: Which means to exercise as much as you can. I use a rubber resisting pull for my arms and shoulders. Jogging is good, but I really don’t enjoy running around the streets in the windy, cold weather much, so what I do is jog in place for 20 to 30 minutes at a time indoors and do my pull stretches at the same time. Lifting weights is also a good way to strengthen your muscles. Anything you can do every day will help keep your muscles tuned and ready.

2. Simulate your field conditions: A lot of us do not shoot nearly as much as we need to for one reason or another. Buy a square block target for a start and practice with it as much as you can. If you can buy a 3-D deer target and set-it up in a field or open space, set-up a tree stand and shoot from the tree at different angles and distances.

Another option is to buy a ground blind

4. Practice in you hunting clothes: If you are shooting a lot, throw your camo gear on and shoot with your range finder and backpack on. Try to simulate field conditions. Practice with your bulky winter clothes that you wear when you hunt in cold conditions. It’s not always going to be sunny and 80 degrees outside.

Those late season hunts can be cold and you are going to be layered up. You’ll see how much of a difference it is when you put on all of your gear and shoot compared to shooting in a t-shirt.

5. Shooting fundamentals: Practice will make you a better shot, but as I’ve learned too, you can pick up bad habits. Try to make it simple. Pick a spot, breathe, squeeze and follow through.

Squeeze your release like a gun. Try to do it the same each time. Concentrate on holding your sight on the target after the shot. The archery gear you can buy today will help you become a better shot.

The time you put in the field will help you become a better bowhunter.

JUNE 2011

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FIVE VALLEYS ARCHERY CLUB & MONTANA BOWHUNTERS ASSOCIATION

4th Annual Montana State Bowhunters Championship JUNE 18 - 19, 2011

40 3-D Targets : 2 – 20 Target Courses BOTH SHOOTS

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This will be the BIGGEST ARCHERY EVENT OF THE YEAR. Come have fun with friends, family and other Bowhunters.

Two days of nothing but shooting your bow.

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JUNE 18th & 19th 32nd ANNUAL FAMILY FUN SHOOT 80 3-D TARGETS: 40 each day. Four separate loops of 20 targets.

Shoot two different loops of 20 targets each day.

These two shoots are at the same location for a weekend full of archery fun.

Primitive camping available on site.

Held at The Clearwater Junction, 35 miles East of Missoula on Hwy. 200.

Contact: Paul Roush @ 406-544-2169 or FVAC@Live.com or www.fivevalleysarcheryclub.com

40 • BIG SKY OUTDOOR NEWS & ADVENTURE

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JUNE 2011

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