2011 Hunting Guide

Page 1

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY

HUNTING Hunt of a Lifetime

Locals provide ailing youth with high-quality experience

The other red meat Basin’s pronghorn hunting on the rise

Herd numbers in the cross hairs

Cow elk opportunity abounds for northern units

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

1

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& E A T ! T ! ! N U H

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Editorial Index

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY

HUNTING

Hunt of a Lifetime

Hunt offers new lease on life ........................................................... page 13

Locals provide ailing youth with high-quality experience

Game meat non-profit back at it again ...........................................................page 17

The other red meat Basin’s pronghorn hunting on the rise

Herd numbers in the cross hairs

Cow elk opportunity abounds for northern units

1

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

About the cover

What's cookin' ..........................................................page 23

The photo of this group of elk was taken in a top-secret area just south of the Gunnison Basin by a long-time local sportsman who asked not to identified by name. Figures.

Pronghorn opportunity rising ............................................................page 24

GCP

Baiters busted in Taylor Park ......................................................... page 30

Gunnison Country Publications, LLC

Publisher Managing Editor Editorial

Contributors

Advertising Production

Online

Chris Dickey Will Shoemaker Matt Smith

Chris Parmeter Kirstie Pike Michael Grosse Heather Messner Leia Morrison Heather Messner Emily Mead Jennie Wren www.gunnisontimes.com

For more information regarding this publication or other special publications of Gunnison Country Publications, call 970.641.1414, or write ads@gunnisontimes.com Copyright© 2011 No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. Copyright© 2011. No part may be transmitted in any form by any means including electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without permission of the publisher. Any work (written, photographic or graphic) which the publishers “hired-out” becomes the property of the publisher. Publisher accepts no liability for solicited or unsolicited materials lost, damaged or otherwise.

4

*MRH MX JEWX

Advertisers Index

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International Adventures .....................2 Island Acres Motel.............................. 10 J Reeser Architect, LLC ..........................8 John Roberts Motorworks ................ 29 Mario's Pizza and Pasta ..................... 25 Ol' Miner Steakhouse ...........................3 Powerstop ..............................................5 Premier Mountain Properties............ 15 Prois Hunting Apparel ....................... 35 RE/MAX Community Brokers ............ 29 Rodeway Inn ....................................... 26 Sawtooth Mountain Taxidermy...........7 Spin a Christmas Tale ......................... 31 Sun Sports Unlimited ............................7 Tee'z Me Screenprinting .................... 10 The Bookworm ................................... 15 The Last Chance.................................. 21 Tic Toc Diner ........................................ 26 Tomichi Pet Care Center..................... 29 Trader's Rendezvous .............................5 True Value ........................................... 15 US Forest Service - Gunnison ............ 32 Weekend Warrior Outdoors ............. 21

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

OPEN FOR BREAKFAST AT 5 during Hunting Season

:00 AM

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THURSDAY - MALT LIQUOR NIGHT

$

40 oz. of Olde English or Mickeys with a Powerburger and Fries $8.50

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7 Powerburger, Fries, small fountain drink or small Beer (PBR) $ .75 7 Philly Fries, small fountain drink or small Beer (PBR) $ .00 2 Off all Pitchers

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5

2011 Elk & Deer Season Information License Fees*

Deer Buck/Doe

License Fees*

Elk Bull/Either-sex

Resident Adult

$34

Resident Adult

$49

Resident Youth

$13.75

Resident Youth

$13.75

Non-Resident Adult

$334

Non-Resident Adult

$554

Non-Resident Youth

$103.75

Non-Resident Youth

$103.75

License Fees*

Elk Cow

Season Dates

Deer/Elk

Resident Adult

$49

Archery

Aug. 27-Sept. 25

Resident Youth

$13.75

Muzzle

Sept. 10-18

Non-Resident Adult

$354

1st Rifle

Oct. 15-19**

Non-Resident Youth

$103.75

2nd Rifle

Oct. 22-30

3rd Rifle

Nov. 5-13

4th Rifle

Nov. 16-20

Late (unit 54 elk only)

Dec. 1-31

*Base prices, including processing fees. Does not include application fee or $10 habitat stamp if applicable. **1st rifle season is elk only. For more information, visit http://wildlife.state.co.us

Gunnison Basin Game Management Units 133

133

Gunnison County

285

Crested Butte

Delta 135

54

92

Montrose

55 Pitkin 50

Gunnison

50 Cimarron

551 285

550

67 66

Lake City

6

COLORADO

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

Hunting for a good deal? Come to... LER F F U M ON

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2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

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Years of Experience in Gunnison County 500 W. Hwy 50 Frontage Rd, #103 2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

Hunt like it’s your last bullet by Chris Parmeter

When I took up elk hunting some 20-odd years ago with a .30-06 and a box of shells, I was unaware of the tenuous relationship between “shooting” and “hunting.” I knew something of hunting then, having grown up in a rural area where hunting was common enough, and though I was no Daniel Boone I had done my share of it. Later, the Marine Corps taught me how to shoot, and soon after, as a Marksmanship Instructor, I taught other Marines to shoot. Hunting remained a part of my life, but even as I directed tens of thousands of rounds down range, I was no better a hunter for it. To the uninitiated, shooting and

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

hunting are often thought of as the same thing, and grouped together as a single “sport.” This is an erroneous conjecture, like thinking that playing the piano and listening to the radio is the same thing. But just as an ear for music lends itself to playing the piano, becoming a proficient shooter increases the success of the hunter. After hundreds of days lying in the sand on the ranges of Quantico, San Diego and Camp Lejeune, my enthusiasm for long guns and shooting in general had waned significantly, though I remained an occasional hunter. By now I’d finished college and was living on the cheap, and what could be more thrifty than procuring my own meat? So again I found a rifle in my hands, along with a box of bullets in my pocket and the desire to fill my

stomach. A handful of rounds had the scoped aught-six suitably sighted in at a hundred yards. I liked the woods, and planned on having a close shot. Shooting can be broken down into its component parts: sight picture, sight alignment, breath, trigger squeeze and so on. All are of equal importance for a well placed shot. Likewise, hunting has its component parts — of which shooting is only one, and even then, only on occasion. In hunting, shooting is a stand-alone skill set. No more or less important than tracking knowhow or knowledge of wildlife. Some of this I was beginning to learn. My second year out I shot a bull in the neck at about 15 yards. The single

continued page 11

9

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CALL (970) 642–8406

Hunters Bag Your Shirts & Gifts At Tee’z Me 213 N. Main, Gunnison 641-5858 10

LIVING WELL TOGETHER 2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

‘Division of Wildlife’ no more Agency now called ‘Parks and Wildlife’ Hunters visiting the Gunnison Basin this fall who contact the local wildlife management office may find a surprise. “Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife” might be included within the welcome. The former Colorado Division of Wildlife has officially merged with Colorado State Parks, forming the new agency. The merger became effective July 1. However, Division of Wildlife insignia on wildlife officers’ uniforms, clothing and trucks, for example, may not be going away so quickly, given the monumental task at hand of combining the two former agencies. State leaders are still working to fully iron out plans for the transition. The local wildlife management office is still located at 300 W. New York Ave., and can be reached at 970.641.7060. ■

continued from page 9

shot dropped him like a stone. It was my first elk, a rag horn 5x5. Like any good hunter I had it mounted, even though I couldn’t afford it, but at least I’d be eating good. I was now down to a little more than a half box of bullets, having frugally expended a few prior to the season to make sure my gun was still on target. There are plenty of crack marksmen out there who don’t know squat about hunting, but there are probably even more hunters out there who don’t understand shooting — shooting, that is, in its proper context to hunting. In the years following that first bull, I learned that being a good hunter means much more than just being a good shot. When I was back in Camp Pendleton, the Range Master determined who shot and when, and at which target,

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

Gun range open for ‘Sight-in Days’ The Gunnison Sportsmen’s Association provides hunters with the opportunity to sight-in their rifles before they head to the hills. Sight-in days at the GSA’s range just west of town are the following: 1st season — Oct. 12, 13, 14 2nd season — Oct. 19, 20, 21 3rd season — Nov. 2, 3, 4 The gun range is located two miles west of Gunnison on County Road 18. Targets, ear protection and spotting scopes are provided; hunters need only bring their guns and ammunition. The cost to sight-in is $5 per gun – except on the Wednesdays of each sight-in season (Oct. 12, 19 and Nov. 2), when it’s free. Hours of operation are from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact Scott Rennick at 641.4898 for more information, or visit www.gunnisonsportsmens. com. ■

and at what yardage. But I’m in the woods now, looking at a cow elk on the next ridge, 350 yards distant. The “when” is completely up to me here. So is the target, and the distance, and a dozen other things. Even the decision to not shoot at all is mine to make. A deep ravine separates us. I’d have to pack her back through that. I pass. I’ve still got most of my bullets. It’s been long enough now that I can say I was in “The Old Corps,” and I’ve become an avid (but not rabid) elk hunter, batting about 50 percent for my efforts afield. I’ve got a career and I can afford store-bought meat, but I still prefer to kill my own. I took up archery a few years back when I realized that I’ve taken most of my elk under 40 yards, and promptly drove my success rate to rock bottom. With a bow, it turns out, you hunt much more than you shoot, and the difference between

the two grows ever more evident. I don’t shun the rifle when my freezer gets low, though. A couple more rounds at paper finds Ole Bessie is still on the mark. October and a light snow. The prospect of a comfortable winter walks 80 yards out, moving slowly through the trees. The command “Fire!” — once barked out with drill instructor authority — holds so little sway over my trigger finger the whisper of the falling snow drowns it out. I know better than to rush the shot. I’ve learned the difference between hunting and shooting. I’ll hold till I’m ready, until everything is sure. I’ll only take one shot. And besides, this is my last bullet. ■ (Chris Parmeter is a District Wildlife Manager for the Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife and a former U.S. Marine Marksmanship Instructor.)

11

Hunting ◆ Fishing ◆ Hiking ◆ Quiet ◆ Year-round or Seasonal Access

Your choice! Give us a call! SERENE MOUNTAIN SETTING

HUNTINGWITH CREATURE COMFORTS

VIEWS TO FOSSIL RIDGE

- Three bedroom, Two Bath, 2-Car Garage, Hardwood Floors - 2.33 Green & Treed Acres in Almont Subdivision - Working Passive Solar Green House Attached - Priced in the $450s

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CABIN IN THE WOODS

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HUNTING CABIN ABOVE VULCAN

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12

- Motivated sellers, possible owner financing - 9 acres, million-dollar views - Easy access to water - Priced at $125,000

Lucinda KC Lull mayorkc@aol.com Bill Nesbitt bill@gunnisonhomes.com

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

Tim Klotz, who was diagnosed with cancer in December 2009, took part in a program called Hunt of a Lifetime last year, killing this great buck, thanks to help from a number of Gunnison-area sportsmen. Courtesy photo

More than a memory Teen Tim Klotz gets chance for ‘Hunt of a Lifetime’ after cancer diagnosis by Heather Messner

When the doctor handed Tim Klotz a list of the sports and activities he could no longer do, he was thankful hunting wasn’t one of them. Diagnosed in December 2009 with Osteo Sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer, Tim, 16, from Appleton, Wisc., realized he couldn’t play football, basketball, soccer or even ride motocross or his snowboard. He could still, however, hunt. “When they told me what I had, I was pretty upset because I had been one of the most athletic guys in school since eighth grade,” said

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

Klotz, who has also enjoyed hunting whitetail deer with his dad Brian. “So I said, well, at least I can still hunt and have become an avid hunter.” Back in 2009, Klotz and his dad were horsing around boxing in the living room when Brian kicked him in the right shin. Klotz collapsed in intense pain and was immediately taken to the emergency room. After spending the night getting x-rays and tests, he was informed the next day of the results. “I had a growth the size of a baseball around my tibia. The doctor said if he couldn’t detach it from a

certain vein he would have to amputate my leg. I said do what you can, just get it out,” said Klotz. The doctors were able to surgically remove the growth along with six inches of his right tibia and replace the missing bone with a plate, two rods and more than 45 screws and pins. Consequent surgeries left Klotz with drastically reduced mobility, making him a perfect candidate for a “Hunt of a Lifetime.” Spencer Nicholl, an Ohio City resident, pastor and owner of Big Horn Guest Ranch, heard about the nacontinued page 14

13

continued from page 13

tional foundation Hunt of a Lifetime about four years ago. An enthusiastic and spiritual outdoorsman himself, Nicholl was naturally drawn to become involved in an organization that gives children under the age of 21 with terminal illnesses a special opportunity to hunt. Nicholl filled out the paperwork and a year later was able to take Charlie Marston of New Hampshire on a guided mule deer hunt for the Hunt of a Lifetime Foundation. In December 2010, Nicholl made the same dream come true for Klotz. The Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife (DPW) has a special permit for hunters ages 12-21 diagnosed with terminal illness called Dream Hunt Licenses. This permit, along with the cooperation of the local DPW office, is the essential first step in making the dream a reality. Nicholl credited Area Wildlife Manager J Wenum for his involvement. “He really goes out of his way to welcome these kids and helps me set the stage here in Gunnison,” said Nicholl. Gunnison sportsmen Brad Phelps, Steve Guerrieri, Cody Dyce and Nick Ray, who joined Nicholl for Charlie’s hunt the year before, all accompanied Nicholl last year for Tim’s hunt. “We’re all buddies and would have been out there doing this together anyway,” said Nicholl. “In the end, we were the ones who were thanking Tim for letting us all be a part of his adventure.” For three days, the group scouted local areas for a trophy mule deer buck for Tim. The Dream Hunt License permit allows for special privileges for the recipients — such as taking a shot from a vehicle. This was especially important for Tim, who had only recently been released from the hospital and started walking again. “I was thrilled to see him out of the hospital and out hunting again,” said Brian Klotz, Tim’s dad. “Especially in such a beautiful place with

14

Tim Klotz with his buck. Courtesy photo

such a great group of guys. The camaraderie was truly one of the most memorable experiences.” In preparation for the trip, Tim’s dad took him to the shooting range to sharpen his skills in target practice. “My dad wouldn’t let me leave until I shot a cartridge load into the bulls-eye,” said Tim with a laugh. “Then once he put a quarter on the target 200 yards away and gave me one bullet. I made the shot.” The practice paid off for Tim in Colorado. On the second day of hunting, they saw a nice big buck but were unable to get a good shot at him. On day three, they searched a different area and almost drove by another buck worthy of the mission. “I was driving and just happened to turn around to talk to Brian in the back seat and saw him out the window,” said Nicholl. “We (Tim and I) teased each other a lot because it was actually on Tim’s side.” The buck was slowly walking through a thick stand of aspens about 35 yards from the hunters. Tim took careful aim and was patient. “His shoulder was behind a tree and when he stepped out, I took the shot,” said Tim. The buck immediately dropped to the ground. “It was a great shot,” said Nicholl, who walked along as Brian piggybacked Tim to the scene of the kill.

“He was so excited … just beside himself,” said Nicholl, remembering the moment. “You know it’s amazing to be a part of something like that,” said Nicholl. “To see a great kid like that, with so much personality and so full of life in the face of death, go up and give someone like Brad Phelps a big bear hug. Really pulls at the heart strings, you know.” The experience meant more to Tim, however, than simply bringing home a prize buck to mount on the wall. “Before the trip I was getting super mad at the doctors, the people in the hospital and cussing all the time. Spencer taught me it doesn’t do any good to get mad, just makes it worse.” The two have kept in touch and Tim planned to spend a week in August over his birthday at the Big Horn Guest Ranch. Brian is happy to report that as of Tim’s screening July 8, no traces of cancer were found. “It sure was nice to see the surgeon’s face happy for a change instead of ‘uh-oh’,” said Brian, who credits Tim’s physical and mental strength for the good news. “It’s nice to see that mount on the wall too, as a reminder of the trip. Even though it makes my whitetail next to it look so small I kind of want to go hide it in the garage!” ■

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

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Killing two birds with one stone Non-profit effort provides game meat for the hungry by Will Shoemaker

For most hunters, the solution may seem obvious. On one hand, wildlife managers determined in 2009 that there are too many elk in some parts of the Gunnison Basin and took aim at reducing the population. At the same time, local residents facing tough times were doing all they could to put food on the table. So why not figure out a way to get the abundance of local elk meat into the hands of the hungry? Gunnison sportsman Allen Moores found a way to make it happen. He formed an alliance last year — a first of its kind in Colorado — called Ranchers and Sportsmen Together for the Hungry (RSTH). “I was thinking to myself, if we’ve got an issue of excess animals and we’re going to open it up to harvest multiple animals, let’s do something with them,” he says. “If you have two or three elk tags and were successful, what would you do with them?” That’s where RSTH can come into play. The organization provides an opportunity to get meat into the hands of the hungry — should hunters find themselves lucky enough to have killed multiple animals, or want to donate to a good cause the meat they’ve harvested. As most sportsmen know, two elk in the freezer is typically overkill — even for the hungriest of meateating families. In its first year — which really did not get underway until the 2010 rifle seasons — RSTH took in two elk, two deer, a moose and part of a beef. While the program only accepts deer or elk from hunters, a generous local rancher provided the beef and a donation from the Division of Parks and Wildlife brought the moose into the program. The number of donated animals may not seem like much, but it actually fed a staggering number of hungry local residents — 356 in Gunnison and 248 in Crested Butte, to be certain.

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

Allen Moores

Parks and Wildlife is offering the same general number of elk tags for the basin’s northern units this year as last, so the opportunity for acquiring extra cow tags may still exist. Last year, state wildlife managers had leftover cow tags available for purchase late into the fall. “Realistically, we think the bulk of donations is going to be during the rifle seasons,” Moores says, “and that’s where the greatest success is.” Here’s how the program works: Hunters bring their harvested animals to an RSTH inspector. Hunters can even keep the backstraps and tenderloins and donate the quarters. “It’s not a new concept. It’s done in other parts of the country,” Moores says of the program. RSTH has money in its coffers, which may allow the organization to pick up a greater portion of the tab for processing for female elk and deer, in addition to a previously assessed skinning fee, according to Moores. Last year, RSTH’s contribution for processing fees worked like this: • List A tag, male of the species: RSTH covers 50 percent of the cost of processing, hunter covers the remaining 50 percent

How to donate to the program RSTH requires that animals donated to the program are first inspected for cleanliness. The program will not accept dirty or frozen animals, and requires that inspections occur in a timely manner after a kill. To have a harvested animal inspected and seek a donation certificate, contact Allen Moores at 970.209.8826 or Les White at 970.641.1982 or 970.596.0215.

• List A, female of the species: RSTH covers 75 percent, hunter cover the remaining 25 percent • List B or C tag: RSTH will cover 100 percent of processing fees. Moores hopes to see the program expand in its second year, but admits that the first offered a respectable start. “It was a good year,” he says. “It wasn’t a great year, but it was a good year for the first.” ■

17

Scenes from the field

Courtesy photo

Photo by Dave Hoskins

Photo by Weekend Warrior Outdoors 18

Photo by Weekend Warrior Outdoors

Courtesy photo

Photo by Dave Hoskins 2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

Photo by Prois Hunting

Photo by Dave Hoskins

Courtesy photo

Photo by Regina Roy 2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

Photo by Dave Hoskins 19

Considered a cow tag? Opportunity in northern units easy as ever to come by by Will Shoemaker

Whether building preference points or simply looking to harvest a freezer filler, it’s no secret that hunting cow elk can offer ample opportunity for success in the field. Under a management plan adopted two years ago, wildlife managers are taking aim at the number of elk in the northern units (Game Management Units 54, 55 and 551) that are high above population objectives. That means a licensing structure that offers plenty of chance for harvesting cow elk. Last year, new cow seasons were added to help achieve that goal. Also, the number of tags available during rifle seasons were increased, and some tags were shifted to list “B” or “C” — meaning that hunters could obtain cow tags (multiple ones in some situations) in addition to their primary bull tag. The Division of Parks and Wildlife (DPW), formerly the Division of Wildlife, adopted the mantra this year that if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. They opted to generally maintain the same seasons and high number of tags again this fall, though the situation is not expected to last indefinitely. “We’re going to let it ride for one more year — see how we do, see what the harvest is,” Brandon Diamond, DPW terrestrial biologist, indicated this past spring. And, as many youth hunters found last year, DPW’s program which allows them to convert an unfilled cow tag from earlier seasons into a cow tag for late seasons (visit http://wildlife.state.co.us/ or call 970.641-7060 for specifics) resulted in opportunity not otherwise available to older hunters. Gunnison’s Will Powell hunted the first rifle season last fall, and though he didn’t find success, he was able to utilize that unfilled tag for a late cow season in unit 54. On Dec. 26, Powell, 13 at the time, harvested his first elk. The distance was measured at 302 yards, and Will killed the animal with a single shot. “His eyes were about as big as saucers when he shot and that elk fell,” Will’s father Bill recalls. “He turned

20

Gunnison’s Will Powell took advantage of a program last year that allows youth to convert an unfilled tag from earlier seasons into a late season cow tag. He harvested his first elk. Courtesy photo

around and looked at me with a big smile.” While December snows keep some hunters from the field, the Powells found that the weather actually worked in their favor, by pushing animals to lower elevations to find food. And Bill says he and Will were pleased with the provision in Colorado that allows youth hunters another opportunity during the late season to fill their tag. “I think it’s a good idea for young hunters,” Will adds. “A lot of young hunters don’t get an animal when they go hunting during the regular season because they don’t really know what they’re doing. But the late season allows a little more experience and a better chance to get an animal.” 2010’s big elk harvest could happen again Last year, the Gunnison Basin’s northern units saw success rates high above what has been typical in recent years. For example, unit 54 saw a harvest of nearly

1,000 elk in 2010, up from 485 the previous fall. In fact, all three of the northern units saw higher elk hunter success rates in 2010 than the two years prior, based on post-hunt surveys conducted by wildlife managers — who chalk up the higher success, at least partly, to the new licensing scheme. Overall success in unit 54 was 29 percent in 2010, compared to 13 percent in both 2008 and 2009. In comparison, statewide elk hunter success this past year was 22 percent. The late, cow-only seasons that comprised all of unit 54 last year recorded a whopping 54 percent success rate, compared to just 14 percent success in 2009, when only a portion of the unit was open for the late season. More than 2,100 elk were harvested this past fall between the basin’s three northern units. And, just prior to going on sale Aug. 9, 594 leftover cow tags were available for muzzleloader and rifle seasons in units 54 and 55, in addition to 458 privateland-only tags. ■

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

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2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

Make the best of your meat

Marinating your meat — seen above in this recipe for grilled elk tenderloin — is one way to both tenderize and add complimentary flavors (through, for example, garlic and herbs) to your to-die-for dinner. Photos by Will Shoemaker

Your game has been bagged and the freezer is full — now what’s for dinner? There’s an infinite catalog of recipes that will fit the fancy of even the most finicky taste buds, but there’s a culinary art implied when wild game is on the line. Face it, everyone needs a new way of spicing things up when elk is on the menu five nights a week. Following are a couple recommendations on how to bring out the best in your next self-harvested meal. Big game braise One of the greatest detractors from game meat for many is its toughness and wild, gamey flavor. And, whether you process an animal yourself or have it butchered by a professional, there can be cuts, roasts, stew meat and trimmings that are too tough to eat as a steak, but too tasty or large to simply grind. These are the cuts that beckon to be braised. Braising is nothing more than cooking in liquid, and virtually any liquid can be used — in French culinary tradition milk or wine are preferred. Braising turns otherwise tough cuts of meat into tender, tasty morsels, taking on the flavor of the liquid, spices and vegetables in which the meat is cooked. The key to successful braising is cooking at low temperature for a long period of time. Crock pots are perfect for braising, but the oven works well also. While red wine makes a great braising liquid,

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

some don’t prefer its flavor combined with the gamey nature of elk or venison. That’s why juices (tomato or even apple) work well with game meats. They help accent the wild flavors without competing with them. Here’s a recipe for a spicy elk or venison braise that offers up either a great main course or tender meat that works well in tacos, burritos and any other Mexican dish. Ingredients: -two pounds of elk or venison roast or stew meat -five fresh jalapenos -one medium-sized yellow onion -15-20 ounces tomato juice -one beef (or similar substitute) bullion cube -two tablespoons chili powder -two tablespoons grape seed or olive oil -one teaspoon salt Depending on the size of the cuts of meat used, browning may be desired. Large roasts could be browned on each side at high heat in a well-oiled pan prior to the braise. Avoid browning smaller cuts, and do not over-brown larger ones. Game meat is very lean and cooks quickly. If you’re unsure, simply don’t brown. Place the cuts of meat in a 10-inch square glass oven dish. Sprinkle chili powder and salt on all sides of the meat.

Cover and surround the cuts with sliced onions and jalapenos (de-seeded). Add beef bullion, oil and tomato juice to the dish, making sure that liquid covers at least three quarters of the meat, and preferably all. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil, assuring a tight seal. Cook the dish in the oven at a low temperature for a long period of time — for example, 170 degrees for 12 hours or 200 degrees for eight hours. Check occasionally that too much liquid has not evaporated. Add liquid if need be. Smoked mackinaw As all Gunnison Country fisherman know, there is a strong local population of lake trout (mackinaw) in Taylor and Blue Mesa Reservoirs. Mackinaws grow quickly, and are resilient, making them a perfect population from which to harvest for food. They are high in Omega-3 fatty acids and have a delicious white meat. While they are easy to grill with a simple oil and lemon spritz, below is a recipe that is bound to be a hit with all your friends and family. For this recipe you’ll need a smoker, either indoor or outdoor. A great smoker for indoor use is Cameron’s “Stovetop Smoker” (cameronscookware.com), which can also be used just about anywhere you can create heat: hot plates, continued page 24

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The opportunity for hunting pronghorn antelope in GMU 67 is on the rise, as the number of available tags have doubled for the 2011 season. Photo by Joe Lewandowski/DPW

Pronghorn population rising by Matt Smith

The potential for hunters to bag a pronghorn antelope in the Gunnison Basin is looking a lot more likely in the 2011 season. Conservative management of the

continued from page 23

camp fires and gas grills included. It is possible to smoke one rack of fish fillets, approximately three pounds of meat, with little mess and minimal to no smoke in the house. Ingredients: -three pounds of mackinaw fillets, boneless -one and one-half cups of salt -marinade of your choice (I like

24

indigenous species throughout recent years has allowed the Division of Parks and Wildlife (DPW) to double the number of tags being offered in Game Management Unit (GMU) 67 — the lone GMU that offers antelope hunting opportunities in the

a spicy teriyaki. I recommend you pick one of your favorites from the oriental aisle in the grocery store) -alder wood chips (can be found in the Gunnison area, or purchased) Start by mixing the salt with about three cups of cold water. Cut the fish into two inch squares and place in salt water for at least two hours (I prefer to leave it overnight in the refrigerator). Drain the fish in a colander and lightly rinse with cold water. Place the

Gunnison area. While just 11 total tags have been available between archery, rifle and muzzleloader seasons in past years, continued page 27

fish into a bowl with about 1/2 cup of marinade and allow to soak — with occasional stirring or shaking — for two to four hours. Remove the meat from the marinade and place on a drying rack for about one hour, or until the meat is tacky to the touch. Place on the smoking rack at about 300 degrees for 30-45 minutes, or until the meat is light brown on the edges. Serve hot or cooled with crackers or over rice as a main dish. ■

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

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A hot race in the Third

Republican hopefuls in final stretch prior to primary Will Shoemaker Times Staff Writer

six What may have appeared in race months ago to be a quiet the Republican P a r t y ’s p u rsuit of findfor the ensuing Hells Angels, earlier this week to prepare run some ing a worthy state landed in Gunnison County Sheriff’s Department agents from across the members of the Mesa College challenger to More than 150 law enforcement this weekend. Seen here, lot of the Western State a stop in town through afternoon in the parking Democratic “USA Run,” which is making Rescue Vehicle on Wednesday their Grand Valley Tactical Congressman Photo by Matt Smith last minute checks on staying. the visiting officers are John Salazar is campus, where most of proving to be a close contest. McConnell l a c i t i l Po newcomer Bob McConnell and Scott Tipton, the current state representative in House District 58, are vying in the Aug. 10 Tipton Republican an end in just 10 primary for the samples has come to the U.S. chance to face Salazar in Will Shoemaker days. s Third a verdict last House of Representative A six-person jury returned of deliberaTimes Staff Writer race this Congressional District after a day and a half owned mining outfit Thursday November. A small, Western Slope finding in favor of Au Mining, previare who international gold tions, The candidates themselves accused of swindling an Lance Barker and Ken Orvis, millions of dollars by Wonder mine cases of clear contrast. company out of tens of ously operated the Golden The underdog candidate its loot. keep to gets t a o in Lawsuit on page A10 amb jury trial McConnell, of Ste An expected five-week the “salting” of gold Springs, has been calledmiliGunnison over alleged his for “Cowboy Colonel” tary background and willingness Chris Dickey to “run in Wranglers.” forTimes Editor The “recovering” attorney, EMT magnet is mer rancher, ski patroller, A North Fork Valley miningranch near mountain and former owner of a trying to expand his private acquiring 1,846 guiding service who’s summitted Paonia Reservoir by a willlands via a land Mt. Everest, has voiced lines acres of adjacent public nearby Curecanti ingness to break from party swap. In exchange, the “career would gain 911 and buck the trend of National Recreation Area have characterpoliticians.” acres that its managers habitat and a to lean He, admittedly, tends wildlife important as ized Bl e d h lib tarian wing

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2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

Trap and transplant projects like the one seen here have helped re-establish the local pronghorn antelope population that was hit hard by rough conditions in the winter of 2007-08. Photo by Joe Lewandowski/DPW

continued from page 24

those numbers have doubled for 2011. Now, a total of 10 tags are being offered for both rifle and archery hunters and the number of tags for muzzleloader season has increased from one to two. “Our antelope management has been pretty conservative over the years,” said Brandon Diamond, a terrestrial biologist for the DPW. “That’s why this year we could sustain that level of harvest with (more) licenses.” Diamond oversees the local populations, which provided hunting opportunities in GMUs 66 and 551 as recently as 2008. Severe winter conditions during that year made a significant impact on those herds, requiring the DPW to limit the hunting opportunities to just one GMU since. The population of pronghorn was estimated to be above 600 before the winter of 2007-08. Through trap and

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

transplant projects that took place in 2010 and 2011, Diamond says they have bolstered the numbers to what he estimates is now around 300 animals. Most of those transplants have come from the southeast region of Colorado, where populations are brimming. A total of 151 animals have made the relocation in the past two years. Gunnison resident Zach Pirraglia — who grew up in Pueblo and has hunted for pronghorn antelope in that general area for the past 10 years — speculates that the dynamics of an antelope hunt change drastically when the venue changes from the plains to the high country. “It’s not like the plains, where we hunt farm fields and stuff like that,” said Pirraglia. “It would be a lot more challenging and a different type of challenge.” The demand to do so, according to Diamond, is typically high in the

Gunnison Basin. For that reason, this year it took a minimum of 13 preference points to earn a tag during rifle season for a resident. For archery it takes five points for residents and six for non-residents and a minimum of 10 points for a muzzleloader tag. Pirraglia believes that the potentially long wait to earn a shot makes the opportunity that much more intriguing. “When you wait that long for an animal, it’s going to be fun, regardless,” he said. “I think you respect that animal that much more when you wait that long for a chance to kill it.” Licenses for male pronghorn antelope in GMU 67 are available for archery season (Aug. 15-31) and the first rifle season (Oct. 1-7). Muzzleloader season runs from Oct. 1-29. For more information about pronghorn antelope hunting in Colorado, visit the DPW’s website at wildlife. state.co.us. ■

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The price of success An entrepreneur’s journey of musings, references and TUMS by Kirstie Pike

I was recently approached to pen an article about the journey (or what we fondly refer to as the “death march”) that resulted in the birth of Prois Hunting & Field Apparel for Women. As Prois has grown into a nationally branded company, the lessons and stories we have learned could fill volumes. As well, many of my quips and musings rank among the “Things We Shouldn’t Share With the Outside World Without Legal Counsel Present” category. Other quips and musings rank among the “Things That May Make Your Friends Question Your Sanity” category. Well, with those limitations, it looks like I should be able hit that 800 word limit after all. The Death March has been an incredible journey. When I look at where we started, I am still amazed that we were able to grow this business. Given the fact that there were no “Idiot’s Guide to Starting a Manufacturing Business During an Epic Recession” references, we learned pretty early that we were on our own as we developed this fledgling idea into an international manufacturing corporation. I do believe that I would now be qualified to author one of these potentially best-selling how-to books. Not that I believe I am a pundit on entrepreneurship. I simply believe in learning through mistakes. Needless to say, I have learned a lot. The Table of Contents could look something like the following: •Chapter 1 — Look Before You Leap. On Second Thought, Don’t. (Really, you would chicken out if you

28

knew what was about to happen.) •Chapter 2 — Global Sourcing; Where in the world do I find that? (Did you know you must order each component in a zipper? Ordering those suckers from China is more challenging than it might appear.) •Chapter 3 — The Fabric of our Lives; The Guide to Chic Fabric Buzzwords. (Apparently, it is easy to confuse 100 percent polyester with, well, 100 percent polyester. Yes, it is different. Who knew?) •Chapter 4 — What’s in a Name; The Reality of Trademark Rejection. (Much worse than a bad break-up. At least a break-up cannot potentially result in a cease and desist order. Well, not usually.) •Chapter 5 — Minimums; Don’t be Fooled by the Name. (I am still wondering what to do with my 20,000 plastic cap snaps that didn’t work. Thankfully 20,000 was the minimum.) •Chapter 6: NAFTA; The Guide to Navigating the North American Free Trade Agreement Without Gouging Your Eyes Out with an Ice Pick. (This was a traumatic experience that causes an acute outbreak of hives when I talk about it.) •Chapter 7: Label Libel. (Check out the inside of your clothes. Did you know that the 15 various labels sewn into the uncomfortable seams of you shirt are actually required by law? This must have been instituted by the same people who deem the removal of mattress tags a crime punishable by death.) •Chapter 8: Bar Codes; They Have Nothing to do with Tequila. (As a true testament to the fact that nothing is free, did you know you must buy each bar code you use? Each and

Kirstie Pike Photo by Will Shoemaker

every one. What a racket. I think I need a drink) •Chapter 9: Sales; Where’s Waldo? (So, you have a great product and you want to sell it to major big box sporting good chains. Easy, right? Wrong. Finding the buyer for your particular product is a process that rivals the search for the Holy Grail. I am no longer surprised when I find the buyer in an underground cave muttering the words “my precious.”) • Chapter 10: Marketing; Everyone is Your Best Friend, Until You do Not Sponsor Their TV Show. (I originally thought everyone just plain liked us and wanted to be our friend. Silly girl. Don’t you know that apparently manufacturers can only have friends if they give out free gear and pay someone to wear it?) So there it is. A brief discourse (and possible best-seller to be sure) on the journey that has brought Prois to the outdoor industry. All we can say is that each day is an adventure ... sometimes a journey, sometimes a death march. Either way, TUMS and Ibuprofen are in constant demand. ■ (Kirstie Pike is the CEO of Gunnisonbased Prois Hunting & Field Apparel for Women, which can be seen occasionally on Pursuit, Sportsman, Outdoor and Versus channels.)

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Hunting illegal hunters Lengthy investigation results in arrests of 'bait' hunters by Chris Dickey

Exceptional hunting skills come in handy for more than bagging a trophy bull elk. They also serve you well when your prey changes from elusive wildlife to, say, illegal practices deep in the back-woods of a Rocky Mountain forest. Such was the case for Chris Parmeter and a handful of other wildlife officers who last fall apprehended four hunters who’d been illegally baiting, and subsequently harvesting, elk in the Taylor Park area for years. In 2006 Parmeter became aware of the activity (thanks to a tip from a couple of local hunters). He and others then went to work investigating, collecting evidence and building a case. They collected soil samples to prove that salt blocks had been distributed there to attract elk. They photographed boot prints, linking those illegal hunt sites to the perpetrators. They disguised themselves as actual hunters during the fall archery season. They “cold camped” — without the comfort of tents, light, a fire — near the suspects. They used invisible ink to mark

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TOP: An officer examines a site baited with livestock salt, seen in the foreground. Courtesy photo

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

the hunters' equipment — including a tree stand that was perched over one of the bait sites. They literally spied on the illegal hunters, shooting video of one of the culprits perched above an illegal site. Evidence mounted over the 2007 and 2008 hunting seasons. In 2009, Parmeter knew that one of the parties had killed a 5-by-6 bull, and he was pretty sure it was done illegally. But he had to wait until he could collect the evidence that proved it. Any hunter knows that, to be really successful, sometimes you have to exhibit the patience to pass up the first shot. Sometimes, a bigger prize awaits. “At that point, we could have gone in ... but we didn’t know who all the people were,” Parmeter explained. “We wanted to wait.” Parmeter said they were pretty confident the hunters — two from Colorado Springs, two from Michigan — would be back again. Not the next day, but the next year. Now that’s patience. “It is very difficult,” he said. “When

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you’ve got several years invested into these guys, you take it pretty personally.” After the 2009 big game hunting seasons, Parmeter went back up to Taylor Park on multiple occasions to see what he could find. He discovered the evidence of the bull that had been harvested the previous fall, located at what he determined was yet another site that had been baited with salt. By the 2010 hunting season, he and his fellow officers were ready to move in for an arrest. The hunters returned, to the same camp located in a very remote and hard-to-get-to spot in Taylor Park. They utilized the same illegal baiting practices, at the same sites. Early in the morning of Sept. 2, 2010, Parmeter and five other officers converged at the Taylor Park hunting camp. After casually being confronted with the evidence and what the officers knew, the hunters confessed. Through Gunnison County Court, four hunters — Lee Buerger and Jason Jackson of Colorado Springs, plus Larry Buerger and Charles Vitton of

Michigan — were convicted of a variety of wildlife crimes. Penalties ranged from a $3,065 fine and 50-point hunting license violation to donations of seized equipment and meat to Operation Game Thief. Incidentally, since 2006 the group had only harvested five elk between them — four cows and the 2009 bull. Parmeter says a good group of hunters could have assembled the same take over the years by doing things legally. “It’s fascinating how much trouble these guys go through to cheat,” he said. Parmeter's boss, Area Wildlife Manager J Wenum, acknowledged that the vast majority of hunters are out there trying to do things the right way. It helps, he said, when they keep an eye out when others might be breaking the law. He also praised the expert detective work of Parmeter and others. “Most wildlife officers are hunters," Parmeter explained. "You have to know how to get around in the woods, and how to be sneaky. That works even when your prey changes." ■

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2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

Taking your ‘game’ to the next level by Michael Grosse

As a big game hunter’s career matures, they begin to branch out from their local hunting opportunities to new experiences — as well as new trophies to add to their collection. Whitetail hunters begin to come out West looking for elk, mule deer and antelope. Hunters who are lucky enough to live in areas where there are more diverse hunting opportunities oftentimes begin to look for adventures internationally. Numerous Gunnison-area hunters are among those who have taken advantage of international big game hunting opportunities. Experiencing hunting opportunities on the international stage provides so much more than just a new and unique trophy on the wall. Being able to see other parts of the world that one reads about in history books in school, or places they see on their daily newscasts, adds to the overall experience. Seeing first hand other cultures and meeting people from these far away places that become lifelong friends are part of the hidden benefits to the actual hunt itself. Hunting opportunities often provide access to people’s homes and businesses on a very personal basis that are never afforded to tourists on big touring excursions. And as far as values are concerned, an international hunting excursion might be more realistic than you think. For example, a red stag hunting opportunity in Scotland — including roundtrip airfare, all of the airport transfers, a stay at an incredible 18th century Duke’s Estate, plus the guaranteed harvesting of a red stag — is still priced under $5,000. Also, industry leaders in the hunting world are able to negotiate opportunities that would be virtually impossible for anyone to do on an individual basis. A trip to Iran to hunt native sheep or ibex is certainly for the more adventuresome. But it demonstrates that in the hunting world there is a fraternity, common language and a unique understanding between hunters — regardless of political tensions that may exist between our country and theirs. We hope your hunt is a successful one here in the Gunnison Basin. As you look to expand your hunting horizons, consider an international hunt for taking your “game” to the next level. ■ (Michael Grosse is owner of Gunnison-based International Adventures Unlimited, which has provided hunting opportunities world-wide for 33 years.)

2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

Gunnison-area hunters who have had success pursuing big game on the international stage through International Adventures Unlimited are numerous. Seen here (clockwise from bottom left) are: Roger Hemminghaus; Don Sammons; Chip Johnston; Sid Plotts; Brett Bradfield; Lee Wise; Steve Pike; Marshal Taylor; Jack Loken; Jim Pike; Shane Guerrieri; Mark Pike; Marty Plotts; Navid Navadi; Paul Pike; and Timothy Kann.

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Hunting on National Forest and BLM Lands in the Gunnison Basin Where can I hunt? Hunting is permitted on public lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U. S. Forest Service. State of Colorado hunting regulations must be followed on Federal lands. For a map of public lands in the Gunnison Basin contact the Gunnison National Forest or Gunnison BLM Field Office. Pay attention to land boundaries, especially private land boundaries. It is your responsibility to know where you are hunting and traveling at all times.

Where can I camp? Campgrounds — Most BLM and some Forest Service campgrounds area still open during the fall hunting season. Please contact the Forest Service and BLM to find out which campgrounds are open and available for public use. Dispersed Camping — Good campsites are found not made. Choose pre-existing sites that are at least 100’ from water and trails. Avoid site alterations such as ditching or tent pad excavations. Naturalize the site when you leave. The camping limit at one site is 14 days. For dispersed camping travel rules contact the local BLM or Forest Service office.

How can I find a hunting guide? Or hire someone to pack out my elk? All guides and outfitters must maintain a current permit with the BLM or U.S. Forest Service to conduct business on public lands. Knowingly operating without a permit is a Class A misdemeanor. Before hiring a guide or outfitter please verify with the local BLM or Forest Service office that the guide or outfitter has a current permit. To get a list of permitted guides and outfitters, contact the Gunnison National Forest at 970-641-0471 or Gunnison BLM Field Office at 970-642-4940.

Hunting and Camping with Livestock? Manage stock appropriately to prevent damage to trees and natural features including stream-banks and meadows. Tying stock to trees for extended periods damages roots, scars bark, and can eventually kill the tree. Confine stock with high-lines, hobbles, pickets or electric fence. Scatter manure and naturalize the area before you leave. Always confine stock at least 100 feet from water and trails. Help stop the spread of noxious weeds! Hay, straw and bagged horse feeds brought onto National Forest and BLM lands must be certified as weed free. Please brush weed seeds out of your horse’s mane and tail before leaving home. You can also help by not sweeping out your trailer on public lands.

Be a Responsible Camper! Build fires in established fire rings. Avoid building new rings. It is prohibited to leave a campfire burning unattended. Extinguish all campfires if leaving your camp. Make sure it is cold and wet when you leave your campsite. Prevent scarring and damaging trees. Do not use nails, wire or spikes in trees. Instead, use rope or cord to tie up rails and poles. Do not cut live trees or branches and never carve on trees. Remove flagging tape used to mark hunting trails or kill sites. Dismantle all structures before leaving camp. This includes meat-hanging poles, hitching rails, corrals, tent frames, tables, or benches. Remove and pack out all trash and equipment brought to the camp. Leave No Trace! Reduce food packaging to minimize trash before you head in to camp. Bring only what you need. Keep a tidy camp to prevent trash from being scattered by the wind, dispersed by animals, visited by bears, or buried by snow. If you burn trash, clean the leftovers out of the fire pit, including aluminum cans and foil. Food scraps should be burned or packed out. It is prohibited to improperly dispose of trash. Bury human waste in individual “cat holes” or a group latrine. Cover with 6 inches of soil. Toilet paper must be burned, buried or packed out. Dispose of waste at least 100’ from any water, campsites and trails. It is prohibited to leave any waste or refuse in an unsanitary condition.

Where can I drive my truck, motorcycle or ATV? Target Shooting? Target Shooting is allowed on public lands. However, you must provide your own targets and remove your debris when you leave your site. It is illegal to deface or destroy trees, signs, outbuildings, or other objects on federal lands that are for the public’s enjoyment. Please use paper targets only. Shooting glass objects is prohibited. Make sure you have a safe backdrop. No shooting is allowed across or along public roads. When you are finished target shooting, you are required you to remove all of your targets, gun shells, clay pigeons, and all items used for your target shooting.

Keep your wheels on designated roads and trails. Pay attention to signs and consult your map regularly. Off designated route travel is prohibited on public lands in the Gunnison Basin. Off-route game retrieval using motorized vehicles is not allowed. You can use game carts as long as you are outside designated Wilderness boundaries. Keep others in your group accountable for following the rules. It is your responsibility to know where you are hunting and traveling at all times. The use of motorized equipment or mechanized travel is prohibited in Wilderness. This includes chainsaws, game carts and bicycles. Travel maps showing open designated routes can be found at the Gunnison National Forest office or Gunnison BLM Field Office or on line at http://www.blm. gov/co/st/en/fo/gfo.html or http://www.fs.fed.us/.

Gunnison BLM Field Office | 650 S. 11th Street Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-642-4940 Gunnison National Forest | 216 N. Colorado Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-641-0471 34

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2011 GUIDE TO GUNNISON COUNTRY HUNTING

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