Belgrade News Fair Game 2023

RESOURCE GUIDE FAIR GAME

Montana Hunting

OVERVIEW

BIG GAME HUNTING FORECAST

UPLAND GAME BIRD FORECAST

RESPONSIBLE HUNTING RULES

CHRONIC WASTING DISEASE

UPDATE

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What’s Inside

10 PREP EARLY AND THINK STRATEGICALLY FOR THIS FALL’S BIG GAME HUNT

14 GET IN THE GAME FOR THE UPLAND GAME BIRD HUNT THIS FALL

16 HARVESTERS KEEP A CLOSE EYE ON CHRONIC WASTING DISEASE

18 BEAR DOWN ON MASTERING BEAR SAFETY TIPS

20 HOW TO FIELD DRESS WILD GAME PROPERLY AND SAFELY

2023 FALL / WINTER

22 SIMPLE SAFETY PROTOCOLS THAT CAN PROTECT HUNTERS

24 MASTER THE ART OF SAFE, STRATEGIC HUNTING IN MONTANA

26 AIM FOR AWESOMENESS AT ARCHERY

27 MUST-HAVE HUNTING GEAR

28 RULE FOLLOWERS MAKE RESPONSIBLE HUNTERS IN MONTANA

29 STAY SAFE THIS HUNTING SEASON

30 ETIQUETTE IS A MUST WHEN HUNTING ON PRIVATE LAND

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©2023 Adams Publishing Group • Fall 2023 Circulated throughout southwest Montana September-November

Prep early and think strategically for this fall’s

Big game hunt

By Abby Weingarten

Hunting season is upon us, the big game forecasts are in, and it’s time to stock up on gear and good vibes. Get familiar with the interactive hunt planner map, devise a strategy, and prepare for a productive harvest.

“One of the key tips we’re promoting with hunters this year is to plan early. We have a ton of great resources in our online hunt planner,” said Greg Lemon, an administrator in the Communication and Education Division of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP). “So, plan for access and get permission early.”

Access the FWP’s official Hunt Planner Map (fwp.mt.gov/gis/ maps/huntplanner) before venturing outdoors. And be sure to peruse a summary of the latest hunting forecast (more detailed specifics are available on the FWP website).

Pronghorn

• 900 series        Aug. 15–Nov. 12

• Archery           Sept. 2–Oct. 6

• General           Oct. 7–Nov. 12

Bighorn Sheep

• Archery           Sept. 2–Sept. 14

• General           Sept. 15–Nov. 26

Bison

Black Bear

Nov. 15–Feb. 15, 2024

• Spring              April 15– End dates vary

• Archery           Sept. 2–Sept. 14

• Fall                  Sept. 15–Nov. 26

Deer and Elk

• Archery           Sept. 2–Oct. 15

• Youth, deer only  Oct. 19–Oct. 20

• General           Oct. 21 –Nov. 26

• Backcountry HD 150, 280, 316*

(*HD 316 does not have an archery-only season)

• Archery Sept. 2–Sept. 14

• General Sept. 15–Nov. 26

Moose Sept. 15–Nov. 26

Mountain Goat Sept. 15–Nov. 26

Mountain Lion

• Archery Sept. 2–Oct. 15

• Fall  Oct. 21–Nov. 26

• Winter Dec. 1–April 14, 2024

Spring Light Goose Conservation

Order Season

Wolf

March 1–May 15

• Archery           Sept. 2–Sept. 14

• General           Sept. 15–March 15, 2024

• Trapping          See regulations book

A Preview of the 2023 Big Game Hunting Forecast for Southwest Montana

Elk

Early snows last season contributed to above-average harvests in most districts throughout the Bozeman area, resulting in population declines (particularly in districts 360 and 310). Elk are within objective in HD 304 and HD 360; below objective in HD 310; and above objective in HD 301, 309, and 312.

The winter was substantially harsher than usual in the Livingston area, which contributed to an increased harvest in most hunting districts. Lower calf-to-cow ratios were observed, as was increased winterkill in the winter range for the northern Yellowstone herd (HD 313). Elk populations remain robust in many HDs, and hunters are encouraged to harvest antlerless elk.

Elk numbers in the HDs near Townsend vary. Elk in HD 390 and 391 are found mostly on private land (and numbers are well above objective), while overall elk numbers in HD 380 are slightly below objective. Elk numbers on national forest land are down, especially on the east side of HD 380, but private land in the HD may have higher numbers. Elk numbers in HD 392 are below objective.

In the Butte area, elk populations in HD 319, 340, 350, and 370 are stable, and calf recruitment is near average. In HD 321, elk populations are 10 to 22 percent lower than in recent years. Bull-to-cow ratios of 10 to 20 per 100 are expected in all districts, and there is moderate antler growth.

Biologists did not see a reduction in elk numbers in the Dillon area, but they observed a decline in bull-to-cow ratios. In the Tobacco Roots (HD 320) area, biologists saw a 12 percent increase in elk numbers. In HD 322, there was a 20 percent reduction.

Mule deer

In the Bozeman area, mule deer fared better than elk during winter. Numbers in the Madison Range and Bridgers were within recent average, though fawn recruitment in the Madison was low. Last year was better than average, and all Bozeman area districts returned buck harvest numbers within or above recent averages.

Mule deer recruitment was reduced in the Brackett Creek and Gardiner trend areas near Livingston. Populations in the Butte area (HD 319, 340, 350, and 370) are on a downward trend, while populations in HD 321 appear steady.

The 2021 drought and the recent winter had a serious impact on mule deer, especially fawns, in the Dillon area; those impacts are visible with a decline in fawn recruitment. Biologists also observed a decline in buck-to-doe ratios in the southern end of this district. However, forage has been excellent, and deer

should be going into this winter in solid condition.

In the Sheridan area, numbers of adult deer remain steady, and forage and ungulates are in good shape.

White-tailed deer

In the Bozeman area, last year’s hunting season returned average whitetailed deer harvest numbers in all districts.

Pronghorn

Biologists saw population declines in the two Bozeman-area pronghorn districts (HD 360 – Madison and HD 311 – Lower Gallatin/Madison and Horseshoe Hills). More than 30 percent of collared pronghorn in the Madison died, and HD 311 summer counts were below average. Both districts saw below-average fawn production.

Numbers were down across most districts in the Livingston and Townsend areas. Populations in the Butte area—HD 318 and 319—are 35 and 15 percent below the longterm averages. In the Dillon area, there have been record-low levels of pronghorn fawn production, and a decline in yearling bucks.

Biologists observed about a 15 percent increase in the pronghorn population in HD 320, and fawn recruitment and buck numbers were low. Antelope numbers in HD 322 remain near the long-term averages but with low fawn recruitment and buck numbers. Hunters with antelope licenses for this area should consider hunting in the Centennial Valley, from Lima Reservoir to the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge.

Pronghorn

There are only a few pronghorn hunting opportunities in western Montana. Antelope numbers in HD 215 and 291 are down from previous years but similar to the 2022 count. Hunting is limited to a few hunters who received a license through a special drawing.

For more information, visit fwp.mt.gov/homepage/ news/2023/aug/0830---2023-big-game-hunting-forecast.

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Get in the game for the upland game bird hunt this fall

By Abby Weingarten

Set those sights high this fall for the upland game bird hunt. Gear up, brainstorm some strategic methods, and get current on the forecasts and maps.

“Plan for where you plan on hunting and get familiar with the regulations of the area,” said Greg Lemon, an administrator in

2023 Upland Game

Bird Hunting Seasons

Mountain Grouse

Partridge

Pheasant

Sage Grouse

Sharp-Tailed Grouse

Turkey

Sept. 1–Jan. 1, 2024

Sept. 1–Jan. 1, 2024

Oct. 7–Jan. 1, 2024

Sept. 1–Sept. 30, 2023

Sept. 1–Jan. 1, 2024

Sept. 1–Jan. 1, 2024

the Communication and Education Division of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP). “Remember, access to private lands is part of hunting in Montana. To ensure we have this access into the future, hunters can help by planning ahead, respecting private property, being safe, reporting violations they see, and being gracious with landowners who provide access. Respect access. Protect the hunt.”

A Preview of the 2023 Upland Game Bird Hunting Forecast in Southwest Montana

Mountain, sage grouse and partridge productivity are expected to be decent this year. This is due to the fact that much of Southwest Montana experienced cool, wet weather in June, which produced healthy vegetation and insects.

There will be wing barrels in several locations throughout Southwest Montana, and hunters are asked to deposit only one

wing from each harvested bird into one of the barrels (or with the Sheridan and Dillon wildlife biologists’ offices). Wings will be used to gauge the age and sex of grouse in order to determine productivity for the year.

For more information, visit fwp.mt.gov/homepage/ news/2023/aug/0830---2023-upland-game-bird-forecast.

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Harvesters keep a close eye on Chronic Wasting Disease

By Abby Weingarten

Stopping the spread of wildlife diseases is a worthwhile objective during hunting season. Because Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) was detected among Montana animal populations several years ago, the illness has continued to increase throughout the mule deer, elk, white-tailed deer, and moose herds.

While the current numbers may be low, it is still critical to proactively limit the rate of infection by better understanding what CWD is. Akin to Mad Cow Disease, CWD is a form of spongiform encephalopathy that is easily transmissible through bodily fluids. The disease leads to organ damage, and it is easy to spot in malnourished, infected animals.

“CWD is a fatal disease and it exists in many parts of Montana,” said Dillon Tabish, the communication and education manager in Kalispell for Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP). “Plan for CWD sampling to make sure you have the tools and know where you’ll dispose of your carcass.”

FWP is conducting CWD surveillance this year in specific Priority Surveillance Areas throughout central, north-central, south-central, and southwestern Montana. Hunters must be aware that dumping carcasses is unethical and illegal, and carcass disposal requirements are strictly enforced.

Carcass parts (such as eyes, brains, spleens, spinal cord materials, and lymph glands) should be left at kill sites. If an animal is transported for meat processing or taxidermy, the brain and spinal tissue must be bagged and disposed of in a Class II landfill. A carcass may be transported within the state, regardless of where it was harvested, if the carcass parts are disposed of in a landfill after butchering and processing.

Hunters intending to use scents, either to mask human odor or to attract deer and elk, should be aware there are regulations on which products can be used (artificial scents are

recommended).

Ill-looking elk, moose, or deer should be reported by hunters to a local FWP office. FWP staff will then check the diseased animal to determine if it is appropriate for consumption or eligible for a replacement tag. Hunters who harvest these deer, elk, or moose are asked to voluntarily submit the animals for sampling to help gather data for the affected hunting districts. Hunters can submit samples (lymph nodes in the neck area, just below the jaw line) by following steps on the Montana CWD Submission Guide or by visiting a CWD Sampling Station.

For more information, visit fwp.mt.gov/cwd.

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Bear down on mastering bear safety tips

By Abby Weingarten

Scared of grizzlies? Even the toughest hunters are prone to fearing the furry beasts. And these big bears can be spotted anywhere in the western two-thirds of Montana (even more so now than in previous years).

Certain areas with denser bear concentrations are accessible to hunters, especially during archery season, so keep precautions in mind when hunting in grizzly country:

• Become adept at using bear spray. Always keep the supply within easy reach, just in case the need for immediate usage arises.

• Remain alert, namely when visibility and hearing are limited. Be on the lookout for environmental indicators of recent bear activity and, if there is a fresh sign of grizzlies in the area, consider hunting somewhere else. Make other hunters aware whenever bears, or signs of bears, are obvious.

• Hunt and travel in groups. Create casual noise to alert bears of a human presence. This tactic may increase the chances of survival in the event of a bear attack.

• Carefully follow all food storage regulations. Reach out to the applicable agency (such as the Bureau of Land Management or the U.S. Forest Service) to learn which food storage rules apply to particular hunting areas.

• Avoid carcass sites, as well as concentrations of ravens and other scavengers.

• Carry the proper equipment for processing and disposing of carcasses.

• When harvesting an animal, remove it from the field as quickly and efficiently as possible.

For more bear country safety tips, visit FWP’s Bear Aware page.

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How to field dress wild game properly and safely

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Fishing and hunting are popular outdoor activities. Many outdoor enthusiasts engage in angling or hunting so they can have trophies to put up on their walls. Others rely on hunting and fishing for supplemental food sources. Game animals will have to be cleaned and processed properly whether they’re headed to the dinner table or to the taxidermist.

Pathogen contamination is one of the biggest risks when field dressing an animal. As with any animal, game can contain harmful bacteria, such as salmonella and strains of E. coli. Other animals, such as wild hogs, can infect people with a flu-like illness called brucellosis, which can be caught through contact with blood, fluid or tissue of an infected hog. Deer, elk and moose also may have chronic wasting disease, or CWD. Although there is no evidence that links CWD to human illness, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises caution.

Proper field dressing techniques and game transport can help reduce the risk of pathogenic contamination. Here are some tips for getting started, courtesy of Penn State and the CDC.

· Wear safety gear. When handling any game animals, protect yourself with rubber gloves. This will prevent the blood and fluids from the game animal from getting on your skin. Eye protection is also advised when handling carcasses.

· Work quickly. The elapsed time from when the animal is downed until it is processed can affect the safety and the quality of the meat if it will be consumed, according to Martin Bucknavage, food safety extension associate in the Penn State Department of Food Science. Field dress as soon as possible to ensure rapid loss of the animal’s body heat, to prevent surface bacteria from growing and to preserve the quality of the meat. Eviscerate the animal to help the carcass dissipate heat and remove the internal organs, where spoilage tends to occur more quickly.

· Watch out for internal organs. Avoid cutting into internal organs, especially the intestines, where the largest amount of bad bacteria tend to reside.

· Chill the carcass. Deterioration will occur more quickly in temperatures greater than 40 F. Therefore, insert plastic bags of ice or snow into the body cavity of the animal to keep the carcass chilled. Move the carcass into a cooler or refrigerator as soon as possible after field dress.

· Choose tools wisely. Use clean, sharp knives when field dressing and butchering to make it easier to cut through

and process the carcass. Use clean water, premoistened wipes or alcohol wipes to clean the knife frequently between cuts to prevent bacterial contamination.

· Hang game by hind legs. Hang the animal by its hind legs with its head down when aging or butchering. This prevents brain and spinal fluids from contacting the meat.

Most importantly during field dress, if any of the internal organs smell or look offensive, or if there is oddly colored discharge, do not consume the meat. Hunters and anglers are advised to learn more about field dress techniques to hone their skills. Speak with local fish and game officials about nearby courses.

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Simple safety protocols that can protect hunters

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Hunting is big business in North America. In 2017, more than 15 million people hunted in the United States. The National Shooting Sports Foundation reports that sportsmen and women contribute nearly $9.4 million to the economy every day.

Millions of hunters take to forests and fields every year. Seasoned hunters and novices alike can benefit from revisiting some safety procedures before their first outing this season.

Weather

Weather should be a consideration whenever people spend a significant amount of time outdoors. Hunters typically leave before dawn and arrive home after dusk. Hypothermia is a very real risk for hunters who may be out in snow or wet conditions. It’s possible to get hypothermia by overdressing as well. Sweating and then being exposed to dropping temperatures puts people at risk for hypothermia. Hunters should dress in layers with moisture-wicking materials and a water-repellant outer layer. In addition, check the weather forecast before

Reporting Access Issues

Have you encountered: Scan the code to your right or e-mail plwa@plwa.org with details.

blocked access points when trying to recreate on public lands or waters? illegally posted public lands or waters? harassment or lack of response to reports?

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heading out as a last second precautionary measure.

Firearm safety

Firearm safety is a critical component of safe hunting. Hunters use rifles, shotguns and other firearms. Each gun is different, so hunters need to familiarize themselves with new firearms before using them. The following are some additional firearm safety tips, courtesy of State Farm Insurance and Southern Land Exchange.

· Always treat a firearm as if it is loaded.

· Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.

· Only point at what you plan to shoot.

· Clearly identify your target and what is beyond it.

· Fire within the zone-of-fire, which is the 45-degree area directly in front of each hunter.

· Firearm chambers should be emptied when guns are not in use.

· Use appropriate ammunition.

· Never modify or alter the gun.

· Never cross a fence, jump a ditch or climb a tree with a loaded gun.

· Never rely on a gun’s safety.

Additional safety tips

Hunters should always let others know where they will be when leaving in the morning. If something should happen, people back home can alert authorities if something goes awry. Always check equipment and maintain it properly. Equipment should include gear colored in hunter’s orange. That extends to dogs if they are accompanying hunters on a trip. This makes hunters more visible to other hunters. Also, carry a first aid kit, a charged mobile phone or a satellite phone to maintain contact with others in case of emergencies.

These are just some of the safety protocols that should be followed when hunting. Non-hunters should exercise caution during hunting seasons, particularly when entering forests and areas that hunters frequent.

Master the art of safe, strategic hunting in Montana

By Abby Weingarten

It’s no secret that Montana has some of the longest hunting seasons in the West, with bountiful herds of game and access to millions of acres of land. Wildlife managers throughout the state have structured the seasons to provide a variety of sustainable experiences for hunters.

“Hunters should be sure to be prepared by having the right gear, putting a safety plan together, knowing the hunting area, and being physically ready for whatever type of hunt is ahead,” said Vivaca Crowser, the communication and education manager in Missoula for Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP).

The pros at FWP suggest that hunters refer to this checklist for optimal success each season:

• Have you completed Hunter/Bowhunter Education or signed up as an Apprentice Hunter? You’ll need to have your hunter education certification information before purchasing or applying for a Montana hunting license if you were born after Jan. 1, 1985. The Apprentice Hunter program allows anyone ages 10 and older to hunt for up to two years without completing a hunter education course. Certain restrictions may apply.

• Which species do you prefer to hunt? Montana manages abundant populations of game animals, including elk, antelope, deer, ducks, geese, swans, furbearers, and game birds.

• Where do you want to hunt? Montana’s 147,164 square miles of land is divided into

seven administrative regions, and each region is broken down into hunting districts. The regions are numbered 1 through 7, with the hunting districts in the region corresponding to that number. Example: Region 1 hunting districts start with 1 or 001; Region 2 starts with 2 or 002, etc. Check out maps and unit descriptions with FWP’s Hunt Planner.

• When can you hunt? Montana offers a six-week archery season, a 101-day waterfowl season, a five-week general big game season, spring and fall turkey and bear seasons, a sixmonth wolf season, and a liberal upland game bird season.

• How do you want to hunt (archery or general weapon)? Montana has seasons for archery and rifle/associated methods. Check the various legal requirements and restrictions.

• Required licenses or permits and deadlines? In Montana, there are two primary types of licenses: general licenses that can be purchased over the counter, and special limited permits and licenses that are available through drawings. The availability of special limited permits and licenses is dependent on the hunting district and/or species, as well as the hunting equipment (such as rifles or archery tools).

• It is your responsibility to know the legal boundaries of where you are hunting. The law requires every hunter to have permission from the landowner, lessee or agent before hunting on private property, regardless of whether that land is posted.

For more information, visit fwp.mt.gov/hunt/licensingbasics.

Aim for awesomeness at Archery

By Abby Weingarten

Archery is about more than aim and agility. If you plan to hunt with a bow and arrow during this year’s archery season (which began in early September), there are five safety tips to follow from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP).

• Practice makes perfect. Being proficient in archery takes patience and repetition. Try shooting your bow in the same manner you use when hunting. Begin practicing before the hunting season. Know and respect your personal limitations and effective range.

• Revisit the rules. Purchase a bow and arrow license, and know what, where, and when your license allows you to hunt. Be sure your archery equipment meets state requirements for hunting. If you have questions, check the current hunting regulations or contact the experts at FWP.

• Prep for a fruitful harvest. Because archery hunting season occurs earlier in the year, temperatures can still be warm, day

and night. Be prepared to remove and process your harvested animals quickly so that the meat does not spoil.

• Be certain before you shoot. Only take a shot if it is safe and ethical. Ensure that there are no unsafe shooting conditions, obstructions, or significant wind. Be certain that the animal is within your effective range and that it is in a position for you to make an ethical shot. Be sure that the animal you intend to harvest meets your license’s requirements for species, sex, and antler/horn class.

• Stay bear aware. Bear attacks are fairly rare. However, occupied grizzly bear habitats are expanding in Montana, so watch for signs. Hunt with a partner and always carry bear spray.

To purchase a Montana bow and arrow license, every hunter must provide a certificate of completion from the National Bowhunter Education Foundation course (or any prior year’s bowhunting/archery stamp, tag, permit, or license from any state or province).

To become certified, visit fwp.mt.gov/education/hunter.

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Must-have Hunting Gear

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Hunting is popular throughout North America. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said that 40 percent of the population of the United States ages 16 and older participated in wildlife-related activities in 2016, the most recent year for data. Hunting also is popular in Canada, where it’s difficult to paint a picture of that popularity because hunting is regulated at the provincial level. However, Wild Alberta reports that, in 2020, there were 151,724 resident hunters in Alberta alone.

As is the case with many hobbies and pastimes, hunting requires some unique gear. Hunters need to bring some essential gear along on each trip to ensure their safety, while other gear and gadgets are all about convenience.

· Proper clothing: Hunting clothing comes in two main varieties: camouflage and blaze orange. Camo patterns mimic real-life foliage or use a digital pattern of natural colors to trick the animals’ eyes, preventing them from detecting the hunters’ outlines. Blaze orange hunting gear, from coats to hats to coveralls, is designed to make hunters visible to other hunters. Some game, like whitetail deer, cannot detect the orange color spectrum, so hunters need not worry that they will be compromising their hunting efforts. Depending on the hunting area and its specific regulations, camo or orange clothing will be required. Hunting clothing also should be comfortable for the weather and the conditions. Waterproof or water-resistant clothing can protect hunters from the elements as well. In cold climates, layer up and wear insulated materials.

· Weapon and ammo: Hunters should always look for ammunition details for the animals they will be hunting so they choose the correct weapon and ammunition type. Weapons should be maintained and cleaned for safety, and all hunters should consider taking a course in the proper handling of weapons.

· Knife: Knives are a staple for every hunting trip and can be used for multiple purposes. Most hunters prefer a dedicated knife for field dressing the animal, which includes gutting, boning, skinning, and butchering. Some knives fold and others are fixed blades.

· Legal documents: Hunters should always carry their hunting licenses and have game tags on hand to mark their kills appropriately. Depending on where one lives and hunts, licenses may need to be visible on the person.

· Calls and scents: It may be possible to lure game closer with special calls or scents. In addition, hunters may want to utilize scent killers, which are sprays and washes that remove human scents from clothing and gear so game are unaware that hunters are present.

· Binoculars: While one may be able to use the scope on a weapon to spot game, binoculars are more efficient.

· First aid kit and other safety gear: Hunters should stock a first aid kit, emergency phone, water and snacks to stay hydrated and fed, and a foldable paper map in the event cell phone signals fade or prove unreliable.

Hunting requires patience, dedication and essential gear. With the right supplies, a hunting venture is that much more enjoyable.

Rule followers make responsible hunters in Montana

By Abby Weingarten

There’s nothing worse than irresponsible hunting; it can kill the vibe, the safety of the environment, and the potential for harvest. Serious adventurers aren’t rule breakers.

But, every season, there are reports of hunters vandalizing Block Management Area (BMA) boxes, driving offroad, trespassing, and littering. Staff members from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) are always staying vigilant, urging every hunter to follow these guidelines:

• Standing crop: Avoid hunting, walking, or driving in fields that have not yet been harvested.

• Littering: Not only is littering careless but it is also against the law (this includes toilet paper and the proper management of human waste).

• Leave gates as you find them: If a gate is closed, close it behind you. If it is open (pulled back to the fence), leave it open. If you are unsure, contact the landowner or public land agency.

• Know your target and beyond: As a hunter, you must be sure of what you are shooting (species, sex, etc.), and know what lies beyond your target (houses, outbuildings, livestock, vehicles, and other hunters).

• Prevent fires: Be aware of fire danger at all times and use precautions.

• Be weed free: Check clothes, dogs, and vehicles for weeds and weed seeds to help prevent the spread to other private and public lands.

• Avoid driving on muddy roads: Unless it is a well-graveled road, walk.

• Avoid ridge driving and driving to overlooks: Not only is this a poor strategy while hunting, but it is also considered driving off road if it is not already an established trail.

• Do not park on roads or gateways: Move well off the roads to avoid people who might be moving farm equipment. Find a designated parking area or an approach that is clearly not being used for equipment.

• Driving off-road: While hunting on private property, a person may not drive off established roads or trails without landowner permission. Off-road travel on public land, including game retrieval, is prohibited unless designated as open. Consult the appropriate land agency or land maps for specifics.

• Ask for permission to hunt: Montana law requires permission for all hunting on private land. Even if the land is not posted, hunters must have permission from the landowner, lessee, or agent before hunting on private property.

• Completely fill out BMA slips: Hunters who do not correctly fill out block management slips are hunting without permission.

• Know your location: Whether you are hunting on public land, private land, or land enrolled in an access program (such as block management), it is your responsibility to know where you are to avoid trespassing. Maps are always available, as are GPS chips and cell phone apps for orientation.

• Accessing public lands: Access to public lands (on a private road) through private land requires permission from the private landowner, lessee, or agent.

• Camping: Camping is allowed on most public lands, but permission is needed to camp on private property and BMAs.

• Know the rules: Consult BMA maps for specific rules on block management property, including driving on roads, parking areas, no-shooting zones, walk-in-only areas, camping, number of hunters allowed, game retrieval, etc. Rules for most land agencies can be found on maps and/or brochures. Go to the appropriate agency website or local office for information.

• Report violations: Report any hunting and fishing, trespassing, vandalism, or other criminal activity to 1-800-TIPMONT (1-800-847-6668).

For more information, visit fwp.mt.gov/homepage/ news/2023/aug/0830---responsible-hunters-are-critical-to-thefuture-of-hunting.

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Stay safe this hunting season

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Hunting is a thrilling hobby for millions of people across the globe. In fact, non-hunters may be wide-eyed to learn just how popular the sport is.

A recent report from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service found that 11.5 million Americans participated in hunting in 2016. Many hunters spend a lifetime hunting without ever suffering an accident or injury. However, hunting can be a dangerous sport, which only highlights the need for hunters to emphasize safety at all times.

Firearms

It’s essential that hunters exercise caution with their firearms at all times. Firearms should always be considered loaded, even when they’re not. This approach should apply while hunting and while at home. Maintaining such a mindset can help hunters avoid dangerous, potentially deadly mishaps should they mistakenly believe a firearm is not loaded when it is.

When hunting, only point the firearm when you plan to shoot, making sure to keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot. Only shoot when a target is clearly identifiable and you’re certain about what is beyond the target.

Weather and gear

The right attire can protect hunters from Mother Nature and their fellow sportsmen. Weather can be unpredictable during hunting season. Hunters should always check the forecast before leaving home, making sure to dress for the weather. Even if the forecast calls for agreeable weather, hunters could be at the mercy of Mother Nature should the weather unexpectedly change. As a result, it behooves hunters to prepare for cold, wet weather, which could put them at risk of hypothermia if they are not dressed properly. A waterrepelling outer layer can protect hunters in wet conditions, and it’s also ideal to dress in layers.

To lower your risk of injuries suffered at the hands of other hunters, avoid colors and patterns that blend into natural surroundings. Such colors can include earth tones, blacks and browns. Animal patterns may confuse fellow hunters into thinking you’re an animal, so avoid these as well.

Staying in touch

Hunters, especially those who plan to go it alone, should always let others know of their plans before going on a hunting excursion. Sharing plans can help rescue teams find you should you suffer an injury on your trip and prove incapable of returning to your campsite or vehicle without assistance. Let others know when you plan to return and indicate your plans to call or text them when you arrive back at your vehicle. This way they can promptly alert the appropriate authorities should you not contact them on time.

Millions of people across the globe enjoy the sport of hunting. Hunting trips are even more enjoyable when hunters prioritize safety.

Etiquette is a must when hunting on private land

By Abby Weingarten

Hunting on Montana’s millions of acres of private land can be a tricky pastime. Obtaining permission from the landowner is paramount (in fact, it’s the law). Want to secure proper access to hunt on private land? Follow these rules and reap the rewards.

• Show courtesy to the landowner by making hunting arrangements. Call or visit at times that are convenient to the landowner.

• Plan ahead and secure permission well in advance of the actual proposed hunting date.

• Provide complete information about yourself and your hunting companions, including vehicle descriptions and license plate numbers.

• Explain what type of hunting you intend to do and be sure to ask any questions that will help clarify the conditions of access.

• Follow the landowner’s instructions and bring with you only the companions for whom you obtained landowner permission.

• Be sure to thank the landowner after your hunt.

Hunters and landowners can learn more by investing time in Montana’s HunterLandowner Stewardship Project, an informational program for anyone interested in promoting responsible hunter behavior and good hunter and landowner relationships in Montana. For more information on hunting access in Montana, visit the “Hunter Access” pages on FWP’s website at fwp.mt.gov.

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2 0 MIN UTE S 10 - 12 HOU RS

4 PE OPL E HICKOR Y

• 2 TBSP. UNS ALTED BUT TER

• 1 - 1/2 CL O VE S OF GAR LIC

• 2 LBS L ARG E CUTS OF WILD VEN ISON NE CK , SHO ULD ER OR ARM MEAT

• 1 TBSP. TRAE GER PRIM E RIB RUB , PL US MOR E T O TA S TE

• 1 TBSP. TRAE GER COFF EE RUB

• 3/8 CUP BON E BRO TH

• 4 MINI S WEE T PEPP ERS

• 2 J AL APEÑ OS

• OLIV E OIL T O TA S TE

• 1/2 RED ONIO N

• 10 COR N T OR TILL A S , 6”

• TRAE GER TEX A S SPIC Y BBQ S A UCE

• 1 BUN CH CIL ANT RO , ROU GHLY CHO PPED

• 1 - 1/2 AV OC ADO S , SLIC ED

B R A IS E D V E N IS O N

S H R E D D E D TAC O S

S H R E D D E D TAC O S B R A IS E D V E N IS O N

When ready to cook, place a large cast iron pot or Dutch oven on the grates. Set the Traeger temperature to 450°F or 500°F and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes.

Add the butter to the Dutch oven and stir until melted, add the garlic and let cook for a few seconds. Add the venison and sear on all sides until golden brown.

Reduce the temperature to 225°F Season the meat on all sides with the Traeger Prime Rib Rub and Traeger Coffee Rub.

Pour in the bone broth, then cover with lid. Close the grill lid and braise until the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls apart, 10-12 hours.

Prepare the taco toppings: In a medium bowl, toss the mini peppers and jalapeños with olive oil and Traeger Prime Rib Rub until well-coated. Slice the red onion into 2-inch-thick rounds. Add to the bowl and season with more Traeger Prime Rib Rub.

Trim the stem ends off of the peppers, then roughly chop the peppers and onions.

Uncover the Dutch oven and use two forks to shred the venison. Add the chopped vegetables and Traeger Texas Spicy BBQ Sauce and toss to combine. Cover the pot and let sit for a few minutes for the flavors to meld.

Thinly slice the avocados and chop the cilantro. To assemble, pile the mea t and vegetables into the warm tortillas. Top with the avocado and cilantro. Serve immediately Enjoy!

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