Xtreme Idaho Fall 2015 by Idaho State Journal

Fall 2015

TOP 10 FALL

FISHING DESTINATIONS IN EAST IDAHO

TIPS

FIELD DRESSING AN ELK

WHAT PLACES

in Southeast Idaho will give deer hunters the best bang for their buck

20% off

Hunting Fishing

Save 20% off any one full priced item.

Camping Biking Trail Running Whitewater

In store only.

Excludes Gift Certificates, UGG, Brooks, Toro, electronics, licenses, power tools, grills, firearms, ammunition and beer & wine. Expires 10/31/15

Nordic Skiing

Your local source for all things that we are Xtremely passionate about in Idaho. Just add you.

2 Locations in Pocatello 222 S. 5th Avenue â&#x20AC;˘ 232-8722

1570 N. Yellowstone Avenue â&#x20AC;˘ 238-3500

elementoutfitters.com

Fall 2015

fall tOp 10

g fishin s atiOn destin st idahO in ea

tips

field ing dress k an el

On the cover:

laces what pt Idaho will give deer ck their bu Southeas

A hunter sits on the side of a mountain, getting an eagle-eye view of a valley as he scouts for game.

in ng for e best ba hunters th

Inside

Deer hunting by unit ....... What places in Southeast Idaho will give deer hunters the best bang for their buck

field dressing Tips ..........

Letter from the Editor .................................... 4 2015 Big Game Season Forecast ................. 5 Elk Hunting By Unit..................................... 11 Motorized Vehicle Rules for 2015 ............... 14 Idaho Wildavore ....................................... 20 Sighting in Your Rifle ................................. 22 Hunting and Fishing in Fort Hall .................. 24 Waterfowl Hunting in 2015 ....................... 25 Portneuf River Outfitters............................... 31

Learn how to process a large elk in the field in 2 hours or less

Top 10 Fall fishing Destinations in East Idaho................................ These 10 fishing holes provide some of the best angling the Gem State has to offer

More than 58,000 distributed plus available online. EDITOR: David Ashby, Idaho 208-239-3133 State Journal dashby@journalnet. com empowering the community

PUBLICATION GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Danae Lenz

ADVERTISING: CONTRIBUTORS: Ken Clements, Debbie Bryce, 208-239-3151 Greg Eichelberger, Cydney McFarland XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL ~ 3

David Ashby Outdoors Editor

Should Idaho change its controlled hunt lottery system?

There were rumors of a huge deer herd wandering around the Deep Creek Mountains near Arbon Valley. I was in the region a few days earlier with a conservation officer, scouting out a small saddle separating a round grassy hill and a rocky bluff. We saw a doe, but that was about it. Undaunted, I went back alone a few days later.The saddle was a textbook example of deer location scouting. It was isolated, quiet and situated miles away from the main highway. But despite the isolation, the grass and weeds in the saddle’s base showed evidence of trampling, which I assumed (and hoped) was caused by a giant buck. Plus, there was plenty of sagebrush for deer to chew on, with a cascading stream to the east and rich agricultural lands to the west. But sometimes the textbook can be completely wrong. Despite three solo trips to the saddle and hours alone with my binoculars, there was nothing. Nothing. Dave wasn’t getting his deer this year. The unit I scouted isn’t usually considered a high-quality hunt. But I heard a tip about a seemingly mythical deer herd, so I bought the general season tag and went to work… and failed. When I went home and later found out my friend snagged a buck large enough to feed his family of five for the next three months, I was both excited and jealous. But he was lucky. He drew a controlled hunt tag for Unit 70. Just the words “Unit 70” is enough to make any East Idaho deer hunter salivate. But it’s incredibly difficult to get a tag for Unit 70.This year, fewer than 200 tags were available, and you can bet every hunter lucky enough to draw one did not let it go to waste. But even though I know quite a few sportsmen who have never drawn a Unit 70 tag, I heard of a few people who have drawn the tag on more than one occasion.That doesn’t seem fair, and I hear a lot of complaints from sportsmen about their lack of success in controlled hunt lotteries. One way for Idaho Fish and Game to alleviate this problem and help level the playing field for all hunters is to institute a points system for its controlled hunts, similar to the system in Oregon and Oklahoma. A points system is simple — whenever a sportsman puts in for a controlled hunt and doesn’t draw, a point is assigned. In future controlled hunt drawings, the sportsmen with the most points are given higher priority in the lottery. When the hunter’s number is eventually drawn, the point count goes back to zero. As it stands, the current system gives every hunter, no matter how lucky they have been in the past, an equal chance to draw a controlled hunt tag. But sometimes it seems that some hunters are just more equal than others. It’s even worse for rarer big game animals like moose or bighorn sheep.Yes, these are once-in-alifetime hunting opportunities. But some sportsmen wait decades to draw one of these coveted tags. Others never get the chance. Simply instituting a waiting period for hunters before they can draw one of these tags would give others a better chance at winning the lottery. For example, if a hunter draws a bighorn sheep tag, they have to wait for a given time period before applying for another once-in-a-lifetime controlled hunt. Of course many Idaho sportsmen would like to ban out-of-state hunters from applying for the state’s controlled hunts. But that would never happen. Wealthy out-of-state trophy hunters bring in too much revenue to the state. Idaho has an extremely rich hunting tradition. Not only do we have a large variety of wildlife, but we have lots of rugged terrain to find it in. Most states just don’t have these two qualities anymore. But we all want to be able to enjoy it.We all want to draw that sought-after tag for a true high-quality hunt, even if it’s just once in our lifetime. Making slight changes to our controlled hunt lottery system will give us that opportunity. But until then, I’ll stay on that lonely little bluff, looking for that buck. 4 ~ XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL

5 1 0 2 e m a G Big n o s a t se s a c e r fo By Martha Wackenhut For the Idaho State Journal

Big game populations are driven to a large degree by weather and forage conditions, with milder winter weather and good foraging conditions, leading to increased big game survival. The past four winters have been relatively mild and that has have been good news for big game populations and hunters alike. Harvest success for both deer and elk generally increased in the 2014 hunting season in Southeast Idaho, and Idaho Department of Fish and Game biologists are anticipating another enjoyable and successful deer hunting season this fall in the region. Weather conditions during the hunting season can sometimes affect big game behavior and distribution and thus, hunter success. Hot, dry weather can result in game using green agriculture fields or high elevations and timbered areas. Conditions that result in more quality native forage availability and natural water sources can lead to big game being more widely dispersed on the landscape. Doing some preseason scouting of potential hunting areas may give hunters an idea of animal distribution and behavior. Hunters can also use preseason scouting to check road and trail access and conditions, as well as make landowner contacts if they are planning to hunt on or near private

property. IDFG conducted an aerial survey last winter to determine deer population estimates for the Bannock Population Management Unit (PMU). This PMU includes the Southeast Region Game Management Units (GMU) 70, 71, 73, 73A, 74, 75, 77 and 78. On average, each Southeast Region GMU in the Bannock PMU had roughly 3,000 mule deer during the February time frame, with the exception of GMU 73, which had a population estimate of nearly 8,000 deer. In 2013, IDFG conducted an aerial survey of the Caribou PMU and found an estimated 4,000 and 7,400 deer in GMUs 72 and 76, respectively. It is important to remember, these population estimates represent deer counted on winter ranges. In some cases, the GMUs in which deer winter are not the same GMUs used during the summer and fall timeframe. The Diamond Creek elk zone is a premier archery hunt and a soughtafter controlled any weapon hunt. The archery hunt is capped at 1,836 tags and has sold out the last couple of years, so it is recommended you purchase that tag early. An aerial survey was conducted in this zone in 2013 and the population estimate was 2,300 elk. This was a slight increase from the previous survey in 2009. The bull/cow/calf ratio was 48/100/44. The aerial survey is conducted in January, so it is a winter population estimate.

We know from telemetry studies that some elk that summer in the Diamond Creek zone winter in other locations, such as the Tex Creek Zone. Therefore, we would expect the number of elk in the Diamond Creek Zone during the hunting season to be higher than during the winter survey. The Bear River elk zone includes GMUs 75, 77 and 78. This is another zone for which IDFG conducts aerial surveys and it was last flown in 2010. The 2010 winter survey found an estimated 900 elk using the zone, an almost 30 percent increase from the previous survey conducted in 2006. As with the Diamond Creek Zone, it appears that some elk summering in the Bear River Zone move into Utah to winter, so we expect the number of elk in the zone during the hunting season is likely higher than during the winter survey. Hunt details by GMU, harvest statistics and controlled hunt drawing odds by GMU, detailed maps of each GMU showing ownership and access can be found using the IDFG Hunt Planner on the IDFG website at fishandgame.idaho.gov/ifwis/huntPlanner/. For more information you can also contact local Idaho Fish and Game offices. Martha Wackenhut is the regional wildlife manager for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, southeast region.

XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL ~ 5

deer Deerhunting hunting by unit by unit Deer and elk hunting isn’t just a hobby in Southeast Idaho — it’s an institution. Every fall, hunters of all stripes head out into the mountains in an attempt to bag the biggest buck they can find. Over the next few pages, we will look at which deer and elk hunting units in Southeast Idaho will literally give sportsmen the best bang for their buck. Unit 68A Ü Unit 68

For bowhunters looking for a challenge, look no further than the controlled archery hunts in Unit 68A. Even though the small unit is located 30 minutes north of Pocatello near the Fort Hall Bottoms, access to good hunting grounds is incredibly limited. But for hunters who can find good access, they have a great opportunity to take home a species of deer that is unique to the Rocky Mountain region — the white-tailed deer. Last year, almost 70 percent of all the deer harvested in Unit 68A were white-tailed deer, and according to Fish and Game, many of those bucks were rated 4 points or higher. Look for the white-tails around the shores of the Snake River, but be careful not to stumble onto the Fort Hall Indian Reservation, which requires its own hunting permit.

Unit 68A

Unit 68 Hunter Success: Below Average Deer Population: Low Hunter Density: Low % of 4+ Point Deer Harvested (2014): Average

Hunter Success: Below average Deer Population: N/A Hunter Density: N/A % of 4+ Point Deer Harvested (2014): Above average

UNIT 68

l l

UNIT 68A

American American Falls Falls

l Fort Hall

Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Legend

Override 1

Game Management Units 0 powered by ifwis

Much of Unit 68 is comprised of the giant high desert wilderness west and north of the American Falls Reservoir. It makes for a great environment for pronghorn hunting, but not so much for deer, as indicated by the unit’s low deer population and below average hunter success rates. Plus, you have to make sure you don’t accidentally wander onto the sprawling Craters of the Moon National Monument. Otherwise, you’ll be paying some big fines. But there are benefits to hunting Unit 68, especially if you’re familiar with the landscape. The percentage of 4+ deer harvested is compared to other units in Southeast Idaho, and you probably won’t have to deal with hunter overcrowding.

12.5

Date Created: 8/11/2015

50 Miles

l Pocatello l Pocatello

The data represented on this map is true and accurate to the best of our knowledge but is considered a best representation only due to the dynamic nature of data and the need to rely on outside sources for information. Idaho Fish and Game does not assume liability and no warranty is expressed or implied. For written definitions of hunting regulations, seasons, and boundaries please refer to the current year's hunting regulation booklets which can be found at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/public/hunt/.

Legend

Override 1

Game Management Units 0

20 Miles

Date Created: 8/11/2015

Unit 69

Hunter Success: Below Average Deer Population: Average Hunter Density: Average % of 4+ Point Deer Harvested (2014): Average

This massive unit located among the mountains west of Idaho Falls and Blackfoot is widely considered a phenomenal place to hunt for elk. But in terms of deer hunting, the hunter success level is well below average compared to the other units in Southeast Idaho. But that’s probably because its sheer size and appealing terrain attracts so many hunters. There’s an old rule that to find the biggest deer, you have to get as far away from the road as possible. Ü There’s no better place to apply this adage then Unit 69 because it offers so much isolated terrain to play in. If you’re able to get into the mountains and creeks that cut through this unit from north and south, you should have plenty of venison meat in your freezer this winter. Just go early and scout your hunting grounds carefully before the start of the season.

Unit 69

l Idaho Falls UNIT 69

l Blackfoot

Legend Override 1

66~~XTREME XTREMEIDAHO IDAHO~~FALL FALLEDITION EDITION2014 2015~~IDAHO IDAHOSTATE STATEJOURNAL JOURNAL Game Management Units 0

Date Created: 8/11/2015

20 Miles

Ü Unit 70

Unit 70

l Pocatello

Hunter Success: Above average Deer Population: Below average Hunter Density: Low % of 4+ Point Deer Harvested (2014): Above average

UNIT 70

If you’re a deer hunter living in Pocatello, there’s no better place to hunt deer in Southeast Idaho than Unit 70.That is if you can get a tag. Located south of Pocatello and stretching into Arbon Valley, Unit 70 boasts the highest deer hunter success rate in the region at over 75 percent.The unit also has the highest percentage of 4+ point bucks harvested in Southeast Idaho, even though Fish and Game estimates the deer population in Unit 70 has dropped by approximately 500 since 2007-2008. Yes, the big bucks are in the area. But so are people, with homes and popular hiking and biking trails dotting the landscape all along the South Bannock Highway.While many hunters would drool over the prospect of a general any weapon deer season in Unit 70, Fish and Game believes it could prove too dangerous with so many sportsmen, homeowners and trail enthusiasts in such a small geographical region. Though an any weapon controlled hunt that will run from Oct. 10 to Nov. 30 was approved this year, only five tags were available. The only other option is to try for Hunt No. 1054, which has 170 tags available. But with the number of applicants increasing fourfold since 2008, getting that lucrative Unit 70 tag becomes more difficult with each passing year. But if you get that tag and live in Pocatello, you’ll have a chance to bag a majestic 4+ point buck a stone’s throw away from home.

Unit 71 Hunter Success: Average Deer Population: Below average Hunter Density: High % of 4+ Point Deer Harvested (2014): Average

UNIT 71

l Inkom

l McCammon

If you don’t draw a tag for Unit 70 but you still want to hunt close to Pocatello, Unit 71 might be your best option. Located on the east side of Interstate 15 and running from south Pocatello to McCammon, Unit 71 features 3,104 acres of mule deer winter range at the Portneuf Wildlife Management Area near Inkom.The management area is very popular with deer hunters because of its close proximity to Pocatello and its easy access. Wildlife biologists say the unit’s deer populations are healthy. But a group of homeowners living in Inkom and McCammon disputed these findings at a public meeting held at Fish and Game’s regional office in Pocatello in March.They said from their observations, deer populations have been dwindling over the years. But despite some issues with overcrowding, hunters have still found success in Unit 71, with a respectable number of 4+ point bucks being harvested.To increase your odds in Unit 71, your Unit 72 best bet is to hunt early in the season, when the bigger bucks will be easier to find in the wide open canyons and valleys of the Portneuf Wildlife Management Area. 0

Legend

Override 1

Game Management Units 0

Date Created: 7/31/2015

12 Miles

2.5

10 Miles

Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, powered by ifwis MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Legend

Override 1

Game Management Units

Date Created: 7/31/2015

Hunting Tips

r Avoid eating red meat and foods with strong odors like onions and garlic in the weeks leading to the start of your hunting trip. Though it may seem extreme, numerous scientific studies have shown that red meat can naturally increase your own body odor. r Do not step directly on game trails. Many animals walk with their noses to the ground, and if they smell your scent, they could get spooked and disappear. r If you are looking for an animal through thick brush, try to look for horizontal lines.Almost everything in the brush grows vertically, but a horizontal line could indicate the back or underside of a hidden deer or elk.You should also look for any unusual straight lines.

Unit 72 Hunter Success: Below average Deer Population: Above average Hunter Density: Moderate Soda % of 4+ Point Deer Springs Harvested (2014): l Below average Unit 72, which lies to the east of Unit 71, is incredibly rural. Besides Soda Springs at its southern tip, the vast majority of the land in the unit consists of rolling mountains, meandering streams and rangeland.There’s plenty of room for the bucks to move around, and the unit has the third highest deer population in the region. But Unit 72 is not the bonanza it appears to be.The deer hunter success rates in Unit 72 are among the lowest in Southeast Idaho, as are the chances of landing a 4+ point buck.And despite the high number of deer, the total numbers have declined substantially in recent years, decreasing from 5,898 in 2009 to 4,052 in 2013. Still, those who are familiar with the area and its access roads and are skilled at tracking should still find success in Unit 72. UNIT 72

2.5

10 Miles

Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, powered by ifwis MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Legend

Override 1

Game Management Units

Date Created: 7/31/2015

XTREME IDAHO IDAHO ~~ FALL FALL EDITION EDITION 2015 2015 ~~ IDAHO IDAHO STATE STATE JOURNAL JOURNAL ~~ 77 XTREME

Unit 73

Hunter Success: Above average Deer Population: Above average Hunter Density: Moderate % of 4+ Point Deer Harvested (2014): Above average

Hunter Success: Below average Deer Population: Below average Hunter Density: Moderate % of 4+ Point Deer Harvested (2014): Average

UNIT 73

l Malad

Deer, deer, deer. Hunters, hunters, hunters.That’s Unit 73 in a nutshell. When Fish and Game performed their most recent aerial survey last year, they counted 7,907 in Unit 73, which is easily the biggest population in Southeast Idaho. Granted, Unit 73 is also the largest in the region. Still, hunters are still racking up 4+ point bucks left and right, and the unit’s hunter success rate is among the highest in Southeast Idaho. But sometimes success can be a double-edged sword. For the past few years, sportsmen in the area have complained that there were too many other hunters in the unit. In response, Fish and Game made Unit 73 a “firstchoice only” hunt earlier this year to help ease hunter congestion. 0

l Pocatello

Unit 73A

20 Miles

Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, powered by ifwis MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Legend

Override 1

Game Management Units

To the north, Unit 73A is bordered by Interstate 86 near American Falls. Heading south, the unit largely consists of a long narrow valley filled with ranches, agricultural fields and land belonging to the Fort Hall Indian Reservation. The good deer hunting grounds are located in the mountains behind all the settlements, where the rocky wooded terrain hides pockets of deer.Though the total deer population and hunter success rates are pretty low, sportsmen are still able to pull out a trophy buck every now and then. But scouting the area before deer hunting season begins is key. Knowing the boundaries of the private and public land is important no matter where you hunt, but it is particularly crucial in Unit 73A. Here, you could easily shoot a buck on public land, only to have it wander a few hundred yards before dying on either private or Native American land. Or you could easily stumble onto Fort Hall land and illegally shoot a deer. 0

20 Miles

Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, powered by ifwis MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Legend

Override 1

Game Management Units

Date Created: 7/31/2015

UNIT 73A

Date Created: 7/31/2015

Pocatello’s Comprehensive Orthopaedic Center of Excellence for Shoulder, Elbow, Hip and Knee Care Your premier community orthopaedic and sports medicine leaders.

Richard A. Wathne, M.D.

Anthony E. Joseph, M.D.

Gregory M. Ford, M.D.

Richard A. Wathne, M.D. Anthony E. Joseph, M.D. Gregory M. Ford, M.D.

Experience, Quality and Compassion, that’s what counts. 333 North 18th Ave

(208) 233-2100

Local Doctors, Local Care pocatelloorthopaedics.net 88~~XTREME XTREMEIDAHO IDAHO~~FALL FALLEDITION EDITION2014 2015~~IDAHO IDAHOSTATE STATEJOURNAL JOURNAL

wathneortho.com

Unit 74

l Soda Springs

Unit 75

Hunter Success: Below average Deer Population: Average Hunter Density: Moderate % of 4+ Point Deer Harvested (2014): Average

Lava Hot Springs UNIT 74

Preston l

Located with Bancroft at the north end and Preston at its southern tip, Unit 74 has been pretty steady over the past few years. There’s a respectable number of deer in the unit, and the number of 4+ point bucks harvested last year spiked as compared to 2013’s numbers.There might still be a large number of big bucks waiting to be harvested this year. But what is particularly startling about this unit is the low hunter success rate, which ranks as among the lowest in Southeast Idaho. The vast majority of the land in this unit (almost 75 percent) is privately owned, meaning hunters will probably have to get permission from landowners to get the best hunting experience possible. 0

20 Miles

Hunter Success: Average Deer Population: Average Hunter Density: High % of 4+ Point Deer Harvested (2014): Below average

Game Management Units

Montpelier l

In terms of variety, Unit 75 along the Bear River south of Soda Springs has it all. Not only can you hunt deer, but you can also pursue elk, black bears, mountain lions, wolves, moose and countless varieties of upland game and waterfowl species. Plus, the terrain is ideal for deer hunting. In terms of deer hunting, the hunter success rate in Unit 75 has gradually increased in each of the past four seasons. So what’s the downside? For one, hunter density is the second highest of all the units in Southeast Idaho, so expect company on your hunting trip. Secondly, though the overall deer hunter success in Unit 75 has gradually increased in each of the past four seasons, the number of trophy bucks being harvested has declined from 40 percent in 2011 to 25 percent in 2014. Pressure from hunter congestion has been so intense in recent years that when Fish and Game proposed an either-sex deer hunt in the combined units of 75 and 77 with 50 tags available, sportsmen from Preston, the town closest to this hunt, were adamantly against it.

Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, powered by ifwis MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Legend

Override 1

UNIT 75

2.5

10 Miles

Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, powered by ifwis MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Legend

Override 1

Game Management Units

Date Created: 7/31/2015

Sunnyside Sinclair • Beer • Wine • Ice • Gas • Keg’s to Go • Fishing & Hunting Licenses • Hot & Cold Food • Lottery Tickets

Date Created: 7/31/2015

DON’T FORGET BACK-TO-SCHOOL IMMUNIZATIONS

10124 U.S. 30, Lava Hot Springs, ID (208) 776-9942

Adam & Eve Where Romance Begins Fun items, games, lotions and couples Bring this ad in for novelties that are perfect for anytime. We carry lingerie from XS to 5X and bras in a wide variety and sizes up to 40F. Any one item.

40% OFF

Everyone deserves to feel sexy! 657 N. Main Pocatello • 208-235-9457 www.adameveidaho.com

Expires 10/15/15

Getting your child up-to-date is easy!

232-1443

CALLTODAY

1151 Hospital Way, Bldg F Pocatello

24 Hr Emergency Service • Mon. - Fri. 8:00am - 9pm • Sat. 8am - Noon

XTREME IDAHO IDAHO ~~ FALL FALL EDITION EDITION 2015 2014 ~~ IDAHO IDAHO STATE STATE JOURNAL JOURNAL ~~ 99 XTREME

Unit 76

Unit 78

Unit 76 Hunter Success: Average Deer Population: Above average Hunter Density: High % of 4+ Point Deer Harvested (2014): Below average

UNIT 76

Montpelier l

Though Units 72 and 75 to the west are rural, Unit 76 might just be the most isolated. Located along the Wyoming border, Unit 76 has the second highest deer population in Southeast Idaho.The rugged terrain provides plenty of cover for mule deer, which makes landing a trophy buck extremely difficult, particularly for novice or intermediate deer hunters. In fact, the percentage of 4+ point deer harvested in the unit last year was among the lowest in the region. However, there’s still plenty of deer available. Like neighboring Unit 75, hunter success has increased each of the last four years. Just be advised that access can be difficult, and its distance from any major towns makes it impossible for most sportsmen to hunt on a day trip. Still, Unit 76 is still one of the top places in Southeast Idaho for youth to hunt antlerless deer. Last year, approximately 225 antlerless deer were harvested in the unit, more than double the next highest unit (Unit 71). 0

20 Miles

Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, powered by ifwis MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Legend

Override 1

Game Management Units

Date Created: 7/31/2015

Unit 77

Unit 77 Hunter Success: Average Deer Population: Average Hunter Density: High % of 4+ Point Deer Harvested (2014): Average

UNIT 77

Montpelier UNIT 78

And finally, there’s Unit 78, which provides some of the best deer hunting grounds in the region. Bounded by Unit 77 to the east, Unit 76 to the west and Utah to the south, Unit 78 may not have the most deer. But the deer populations there are very high quality.The hunter success rate and the percentage of 4+ point bucks are the second highest in Southeast Idaho.And they have been rapidly rising over the past four years. So what’s the downside? Like Unit 70, it’s a controlled hunt, with a limited number of tags available.Though the total number of applicants applying for this hunt is far lower than Unit 70, the distance many sportsmen have to travel to get there is a marked disadvantage. But unlike Unit 70, the area is largely rural and sparsely populated, meaning less conflicts with landowners and fellow hunters. And with the phenomenal success Unit 78 hunters have had in recent years, paying the extra money on fuel and supplies to travel to the Bear Lake area is definitely worth it. If you don’t believe me, just think of the final result of your Ü investment — a magnificent trophy mount hanging in your home and lots of venison meat in your freezer. But before any of that can happen, your number has to be drawn. 0

2.5

10 Miles

Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, powered by ifwis MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Legend

Override 1

Game Management Units

Date Created: 7/31/2015

Tracking Tips

l Preston

r It is difficult to differentiate between a deer buck and a deerdoe solely on its tracks. But a buck’s tracks will be larger and have more pronounced dewclaws. Bucks also have larger strides and tend to drag their hoofs in the dirt. r When pursuing deer, try to stay in the shadows, using trees and vegetation as cover. Do not walk along the trail because you could damage the tracks, which will cause issues if you have to backtrack. r Big deer bucks tend to travel alone, while younger fawns and does tend to travel in packs.This means you should look for a single set of tracks. r If an elk’s tracks go uphill and change from a straight to a circular pattern, it means you are approaching its bed. Stay off the trail and move slowly in an arc.

Compared to the surrounding areas, current trends indicate that Unit 77 may not be the best place to hunt. Sure, the deer hunter success rates between Unit 75 and nearby Unit 77 are almost identical. But hunter congestion in the areas surrounding Preston is a major problem. Last year, Unit 77 had the highest hunter density rate of any unit in Southeast Idaho. Plus, the quality of the bucks has been declining rapidly. In 2012, the percentage of 4+ point bucks harvested in Unit 77 was the highest in the region. Since then, that total percentage has dropped from 50 percent to under 35 percent last year. Whether these trends continue has to wait to be seen. But if you decide to hunt Unit 77, just don’t be surprised if you’re not the only deer hunter in the area. Legend

Override 1

Game Management Units 0

Hunter Success: Above average Deer Population: Average Hunter Density: Low % of 4+ Point Deer Harvested (2014): Above average

Date Created: 7/31/2015

12 Miles

10 10~~XTREME XTREMEIDAHO IDAHO~~FALL FALLEDITION EDITION2014 2015~~IDAHO IDAHOSTATE STATEJOURNAL JOURNAL

Elk hunting by unit Bear River Elk Zone

Ü Bannock Elk Zone

l Pocatello l Bannock Elk Zone

Soda Springs Bear River Elk Zone

Montpelier l

l Malad l Preston

Bannock Zone n Total Units: 70, 71, 72, 73, 73A, 74 n 2014 Hunter Success: 13 percent n Most Likely Unit to Find a 6+ point bull: Unit 74

Bear River Zone

Legend Override 1 Game Management Units 0 powered by ifwis

12.5

Date Created: 7/31/2015

50 Miles

n Total Units: 75, 77, 78 n 2014 Hunter Success: 19 percent n Most Likely Unit to Find a 6+ point bull: Unit 75

It’s all about location, location, location when you’re hunting elk in the Bannock Zone. Some units (70, 73 and 73A) have hunter success rates 10 percent or lower. But sportsmen in other areas in the elk management zone have fared much better. In 2014, the best units in terms of success rates were Units 72 and 74. About 75 percent of the elk harvested in these areas were trophy quality, with success rates averaging about 15 percent. But if you’re an experienced elk hunter, do not count out Units 70 or 73A. Last year, only 15 elk were harvested between the areas. However, all of them were scored 6 points or higher.

20 Miles

Bear River is geographically the smallest of the region’s elk zones. But size certainly isn’t a factor, because last year, 1/5 of the sportsmen who hunted the zone walked away with an elk. But there are discrepencies between the three units that make up the Bear River Zone. While all three units produced similar success rates, the big bulls were definitely in Unit 75, the northernmost portion. Out of the total number of elk harvested in Unit 75, more than half were trophy quality. In Units 77 and 78, only about 1/4 were 6 points or higher. Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, powered by ifwis MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Legend

Override 1

Game Management Units

Date Created: 7/31/2015

XTREME IDAHO IDAHO ~~ FALL FALL EDITION EDITION 2015 2014 ~~ IDAHO IDAHO STATE STATE JOURNAL JOURNAL ~~ 1111 XTREME

Tex Creek Elk Zone

Big Desert Elk Zone

l Idaho Falls

Tex Creek Elk Zone

Big Desert Elk Zone

Aberdeen l l Fort Hall

American Falls Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Tex Creek Zone 10

eated: 7/31/2015

Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRC Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS U

Big Desert Zone

n Total Units: 66, 69 Legend 20 Miles n 2014 Hunter Success: 14 percent Override 1 Game Management Units69 n Most Likely Unit to Find a 6+ point bull: Unit

0 powered by ifwis

12.5

Though the Tex Creek Zone may not be the biggest elk management zone in Southeast Idaho, it is definitely one of its most productive. Last year, the zone hosted over 4,151 hunters who harvested 566 elk, the most of any of the zones located in the region. The two units that make up the zone both had similar harvest numbers, but the big boys were tucked River of Elk all Zone away in the larger UnitSnake 69. Out the elk harvested in Unit 69, 46.2 percent were 6+ point bulls. In Unit 66, that Ü percentage was less than half, at 20 percent.

Date Created: 7/31/2015

n Total Units: 52A, 68 50 n 2014 Hunter Success: 23 percent Miles n Most Likely Unit to Find a 6+ point bull: Unit 52A

The data represented on this map is true and accurate to the best of our knowledge but is considered a best representation only due to the dynamic nature of data and the need to rely on outside sources fo implied. For written definitions of hunting regulations, seasons, and boundaries please refer to the current year's hunting regulation booklets which can be found at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/public/hunt/.

The Big Desert Zone isn’t the most popular place to hunt elk, but it probably should be. Yes, access is poor and the desert landscape can be difficult to deal with. But the Big Desert Zone had one of the highest elk hunter success rates in Southeast Idaho last year — almost 1/4 of all the hunters who entered harvested an animal. Of that total, almost half were rated as 6+ point bulls.

Snake River Zone Rexburg l

l Idaho Falls Snake River Elk Zone

l Pocatello

12 12~~XTREME XTREMEIDAHO IDAHO~~FALL FALLEDITION EDITION2014 2015~~IDAHO IDAHOSTATE STATEJOURNAL JOURNAL

n Total Units: 63, 63A, 68A n 2014 Hunter Success: 23 percent n Most Likely Unit to Find a 6+ point bull: Unit 63 Though the majority of the Snake River Zone is located to the north and west of Idaho Falls, a portion of it (Unit 68A), stretches down the Snake River and borders the north side of the Pocatello/ Chubbuck area. But if you’re looking for the big bulls, you’ll have to go as north as possible. While Units 63 and 63A produced wonderful hunting success rates last year (65 percent of the bulls harvested in Unit 63 were trophy quality), Unit 68A greatly lagged. While hunters were able to bag five elk from Unit 68A, none were scored 6 points or higher.

Diamond Creek Elk Zone

Diamond Creek Zone n Total Units: 66A, 76 n 2014 Hunter Success: 22 percent n Most Likely Unit to Find a 6+ point bull: Unit 76 l

Soda Springs Diamond Creek Elk Zone

20 Miles

Montpelier

Sharing a border with the wild frontier of Wyoming is definitely beneficial to the Diamond Creek Zone in the southeast corner of the Gem State. Not only is the zone one of the most productive elk hunting areas in the region, it also consistently provides hunters with opportunities to land a trophy. Last year, the percentage of 6+ point bulls harvested in Diamond Creek were equitable between the Units 66A and 76, between 40 and 43 percent. Plus, the terrain is isolated and rugged, making for a fun hunt.

Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, powered by ifwis MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Oil Change SpeCial Legend

Override 1

Game Management Units

Date Created: 7/31/2015

PLUS Seasonal Check-Up

• Brake Check • All Fluid Levels Check • Suspension Check • Lights Check • Tire Check

• Belts & Hoses Check • Radiator & Coolant Check • Plus Road Test

208.380.4214 149 McKinley Rd • Pocatello meineke.com

*For faster service, please call ahead for an appointment. Most cars/light trucks. Oil change includes up to 5 quarts of standard motor oil & new oil filter. Cannot combine with any other offer. For a limited time only. XTREME IDAHO IDAHO ~~ FALL FALL EDITION EDITION 2015 2014 ~~ IDAHO IDAHO STATE STATE JOURNAL JOURNAL ~~ 13 13 XTREME

Refresher Course By Jennifer Jackson/Idaho Fish and Game

Hunt Units with Motorized Hunting Rule

Dates: August 30 - December 31

Applies ONLY to hunting big game animals, including moose, bighorn sheep and mountain goat. Affected units are are listed below and are displayed in orange on the map.

3 5

10A 11A

16 13

32 A

31 32

20A 26

25 34

21 A

36 B

30 A

58 59A

52A

56 55

62 64

63 A

68A 73 A

62A

60A

65 67 66

69 68

44 45

36A 48

16 A

19A

23 22

Units: 29, 30, 30A, 32, 32A, 36A, 37, 37A, 45, 47, 49, 50, 51, 52, 52A, 53, 56, 58, 59, 59A, 66, 66A, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78

66A

72 74

75 77

OHV and motorized vehicle rules for 2015

ids arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even back in school, and yet many sportsmen and sportswomen are already thinking about fall hunting seasons. In fact, some of you are getting ready to do some archery hunting this month. As you make your plans, write your checklists, and double check changes in the regulations, take a few moments to do one more thing â&#x20AC;&#x201D; review the rules for hunting with motorized vehicles.

What are the rules?

First, it is important to understand what is meant by a motorized vehicle. Idaho statute defines a motorized vehicle as any water, land, or air vehicle propelled by means of steam, petroleum products, electricity, or any other mechanical power. For the purposes of the Motorized Hunting Rule, this includes pickup trucks, jeeps, SUVs, UTVs, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, motorcycles, snowmobiles and other

14 ~ XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL

similar vehicles. Second, if you are hunting in a unit with the Motorized Hunting Rule in effect, you cannot use your motorized vehicle as an aid to hunting. Many hunters think this simply means that they cannot discharge a weapon from the seat of their four-wheeler. That is only a small part of the regulation. Hunters using motorized vehicles in a unit with motorized vehicle restrictions must remember: n Motorized vehicles can travel anywhere full-sized vehicles are legally allowed (open established roadways), but can NOT be used on offroad trails as an aid to hunting efforts. Using a motorized vehicle to travel off roadways (even if on a legal trail) to and from hunting spots, to transport hunters or hunting equipment, to scout for game, or to actually hunt are some examples of aids to hunting. n The rule is applicable only to hunting big game animals, including moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat. The rule does not apply to the hunting of upland game birds or upland game animals.

n The rule is only in effect in 30 of the 99 Game Management Units in Idaho (see inset). However, 10 of those units are in Southeast and East Idaho. n The rule is in effect from Aug. 30 to Dec. 31 each year. n Hunters are allowed to transport weapons on their motorized vehicles while conducting legal activities like transporting camping gear to or from a campsite, or retrieving a downed game animal.

What are the exceptions to the Motorized Hunting Rule?

n Holders of a valid disabled personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s motor vehicle hunting permit may use a motorized vehicle as an aid to hunting. Just be sure that the trails you access are actually open to travel. Pay attention to trail signs and printed travel maps you can pick-up from the Forest Service or BLM. Never take your motorized vehicle on a closed trail or pioneer new trails. n Hunters may use a motorized vehicle to retrieve downed game if

such travel is allowed by the land owner or manager. Remember, cross-country travel is not allowed. Always stay on legal roads and trails. n Hunters may use a motorized vehicle to pack camping equipment in or out if such travel is allowed by the land owner or manager, but hunters may not hunt while doing so. n Private landowners on their private land, their authorized agents and persons with written landowner permission are exempt from the motorized hunting rule restrictions.

How Can Fish and Game Regulate Motorized Vehicles?

The Fish and Game Commission rule regarding the use of motorized vehicles as an aid to hunting is not an “ATV regulation.” It is a hunting regulation — no different than the hunting regulations that restrict the amount of let-off on a bow, permit the use of certain weaponry in a particular hunt, or set the length of a

season, to name just a few examples.

Why Have a Motorized Hunting Rule?

The rule is in response to concerns expressed by many hunters. In fact, the mule deer hunter survey completed in 2007 indicated that most hunters, including those who use motorized vehicles, are concerned about how the use of off-road vehicles can disrupt hunts and disturb hunters. Other concerns include maintaining the “fair chase” ethic of hunting. Besides the social aspect to the rule, there is the biological component. For Fish and Game wildlife managers, the increase in the vulnerability of game when hunters introduce the use of motorized vehicles (from ATVs to full-sized pickup trucks) is of particular concern. Motorized vehicles have made secluded, secure areas for wildlife more rare and human access to these areas quicker, easier, and more frequent. The end result is a dramatic change in the

hunting experience for all hunters and increased vulnerability of deer and elk to hunters. The bottom line: The rule is intended to manage conflicts among hunter user groups and address the potential vulnerability of game while striving to meet biological objectives.

Want to Know More?

For a complete description of Fish and Game’s motorized vehicle rules, please pick up the latest version of the Motorized Hunting Rule brochure at any Fish and Game office. You can also find this information at fishandgame.idaho. gov/public/hunt/?getPage=152. Questions can also be answered by calling the regional Fish and Game office in Pocatello at 208-232-4703. Have a safe and happy hunting season. Jennifer Jackson is the regional conservation educator for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, Southeast Region.

2014 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL ~ 15 XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015

Field dressing tips By Journal Staff

How to field dress an elk in under 2 hours for packing out of the backcountry

s a boy, Joe Foster received his education in field dressing from his father and his friends — all of whom were professional butchers. On hunting trips, Foster said he would listen to the men provide tips, discuss the most efficient knives and argue about the best ways to butcher and preserve the meat of the big game they harvested. Since then, Foster has used this knowledge to field dress over 100 deer, elk, moose, pronghorn and bighorn sheep. The McCammon resident serves as the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) Idaho State chapter president and teaches a class on game processing for the Idaho Fish and Game Wildavore program. In this article, he provides some tips on how to dress an elk in the backcountry. 1. With the elk gutted on its side, remove the head and the legs below the knees pointing upward. Remove the hide starting from the belly toward the spine to keep hair and debris away from the meat. The skin, flesh side up, will be your clean working surface. 2. Make the cut the entire length of both sides of the spine from the hip to the neck to free the meat from the backbone. Remove the bone from the shoulder. 3. Remove the meat from the entire front 16 ~ XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL

Italian Sausage Recipe Ingredients Measure Ratios Venison Pounds 10 20 40 50 Pork shoulder Pounds 3 6 12 15 Olive oil Cups 1 2 4 5 Garlic Tablespoons 4 8 16 20 Fennel seeds Tablespoons 4 8 16 20 Red Pepper flakes Teaspoons 3 6 12 15 Paprika Teaspoons 4 8 16 20 Salt Tablespoons 4 8 16 20 Ground pepper Teaspoons 4 8 16 20 Rosemary Teaspoons 2 4 8 10 Oregano Teaspoons 2 4 8 10 Dried basil Tablespoons 6 12 24 30

Directions

1. Grind combined venison and pork by ratio listed above into meat tub(s). 2. Add all the other ingredients and mix well. Dry ingredients can be pre-mixed to save time. 3. Attach a big sausage tube to the grinder plate and grind the sausage mixture a second time with a burger bag over the sausage tube. 4. Load straight into 1- or 2-pound burger bags. Twist out air, seal and freeze. This sausage takes no more time to make then hamburger, and it is very versatile. If making meatballs or Italian sausage sandwiches, add 1 egg, 1/2 cup of Panko bread crumbs and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese per pound of sausage. Build your favorite tomato sauce and serve quarter from the chest toward the spine. Remove the tenderloin and rib and neck meat and place it all in one bag. 4. Bone out the hindquarters and place in the second bag, utilizing the skinned hide as a clean working surface. 5. Flip the carcass over bone side down and repeat. 6. The whole process can be completed in less than two hours, utilizing only one knife, four game bags and no saw. In the end, you should

with angel hair pasta and/or crusty sourdough bread. The sausage is also great in lasagna, sloppy Joes and meatloaf.

Awesome Italian Beans Recipe

1 pound of Italian Sausage (recipe listed above) 1 chopped onion 2 cans of Bush’s Baked Beans 1 can of corn (with liquids) 1 can tomato soup (with 1/2 can of water) 1 jar of salsa 1. Brown 1 pound Italian sausage with 1 chopped onion. 2. Add beans, corn, tomato soup, water and salsa. Simmer until heated. You may substitute any type of beans.

be able to get around 100 pounds of meat from a normal-sized spike elk. A strong back and a weak mind helps, but once the game bags are filled and loaded onto your backpack, it will be all downhill from there (though not in a bad way).

Contamination

n Foster said this technique is ideal because it keeps the meat from being contaminated by the elements,

such as dirt, hair and mud. Lying the skin flesh side up provides a clean working surface to keep meat from being tainted. The waste, like the guts and the excess fat, should be removed from the work area. n Some hunters will slash the deer or elk’s throat to drain blood from the animal. Foster strongly discourages this. “All you’ve done is create a hole for dirt to get in and contaminate the meat,” he said. “Once the animal is dead, you will be gutting it

XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL ~ 17

and there’s no reason to slash the throat.” n Always bring a first aid kit. When you are handling a sharp knife in an isolated wilderness environment, you can easily cut your hand or fingers. A good first aid kit should include bandages in a variety of sizes, disinfectants, a roll of athletic tape and gauze. n A first aid kit in a large, heavy hard case is not always necessary. To save on the amount of weight that needs to be carried, Foster recommends carrying your first aid supplies wrapped inside surgical gloves. Also, a piece of the game bag can be used in place of gauze. n A lot of hunters prefer to use surgical gloves to field dress an animal out of fear of blood pathogens. But Foster said he has always used white string cotton gloves, which he said are warmer and provide a better grip when you are handling wet meat. They cost about a buck at most gas stations. In terms of blood pathogen fears, Foster said, “Surgical gloves are fine, but I’d be more concerned about pathogens from beef in a grocery store than from an elk in the mountains.” n When butchering, be very careful not to slice open the bladder, bowels or stomach. The resulting fluids can easily spread on the meat and contaminate it.

Knives

n There are many types of knives available, but Foster said the technique listed above can be completed using only a

the rib cage toward the spine to keep the back strap in one complete piece. n The tenderloin runs on the inside of the backbone. It’s tough to get to, but the added effort is worth it because it is one of the tastiest part of the elk. Use the backbone as a guide when removing the tenderloin. Doug Lindley/ Idaho State Journal

A sharp, sturdy knife is essential for field dressing a big game animal.

Meat

sturdy boning knife. At most, hunters will only need four different type of blades to successfully field dress an elk: a boning knife, a skinning knife, a gut hook and a saw. n A good boning knife should have a long, thin blade that gradually narrows towards the tip. On the other hand, a good skinning knife’s blade will be rounded, shorter and wider. A good ergonomic grip is always must-have for any knife. n Sometimes, a good boning knife can be found cheaply in unusual places like a thrift store. Foster said he has used an old kitchen knife made by Chicago Cutlery to field dress a large number of elk. n Always carry a steel to keep the knife’s blade razor sharp, which makes butchering a lot less burdensome.

18 ~ XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL

n When removing the legs from the carcass, follow the bone to the joint and run the knife around the joint. Then slice through the cartilage to remove the leg. n Try to keep the meat removed in as large of chunks as possible to avoid contamination. Specific cuts of meat like steaks or roasts should be made later at home. n It’s not illegal in Idaho to leave the neck and rib meat on the carcass. But in some circles it can be considered unethical because that meat is edible but is being left to waste. All of this meat makes great Italian sausage (see recipe on page 17). n Pay extra attention to the hindquarters — that’s where the majority of the meat you’ll bone out will come from. n The two backstraps run along on each side of the backbone. To remove them, it is best to cut straight in on both sides of the spine first, keeping the blade as close to the bone as possible. Next, slice along

Extra Supplies

n When field dressing a big game animal, always bring extra rope. If the animal is harvested on a steep mountain, you can prevent it from sliding down during the butchering process by tying a limb to a tree. n Bring a camera and take photos of the bones left behind. If questioned, a photo will prove to conservation officers that the animal and its meat were not wasted.

Transportation

n Foster said many hunters are not familiar with how to field dress in the backcountry, preferring to use off-road vehicles to transport the whole carcass back to their trucks. However, he said the best hunting tends to be in isolated places where off-road vehicles are restricted. n A normal-sized spike elk can produce about 100 pounds of boned out meat. A big bull may be several times that and require 6 to 8 game bags. Using a backpack “freighter frame with shelf” allows two hunters to carry up to four bags of meat back to camp per trip on foot with relative ease.

Know Your Elk Meat Tenderloin Rib meat Shoulder

Hindquarters Shank Meat

Neck Meat Brisket

WITH EVERY PASSENGER & LIGHT TRUCK TIRE PURCHASE

Peace of Mind Tire Protection

ON SALE

Free Pre-Trip Safety Check

Best Tire Value Promise • • • • • •

Free Flat Tire Repairs Free Tire Rotations Free Tire Rebalancing Free Air Checks Free Brake & Alignment Checks Hundreds of Les Schwab Locations to Serve You

CHUBBUCK 4020 YELLOWSTONE AVE. 238-7442

PASSENGER

GREAT BUY!

ECLIPSE

starting at

39 99

155/80R-13

All Season Tire Economically Priced

Tread Design may vary. Your size in stock. Call for size and price.

www.LesSchwab.com

Lifetime Tire & Mileage Care

63 60

P155/80R-13

All Season Traction Smooth, Quiet Ride Your size in stock. Call for size and price.

POCATELLO 505 N. 5TH AVE. 232-5200 XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL ~ 19

Submitted Photos

Top: Brian Miesch with his first deer. Bottom left: Regional Conservation Officer Scott Wright, center, discusses shot placement with the first Wildavore class in 2014. Bottom right: Senior Conservation Officer Merritt Horsmon, second from right, teaches scouting to the Wildavore class at the Portneuf Wildlife Management Area near Inkom.

First Blood Wildavore program introduces young greenhorns to hunting By Cydney McFarland | cmcfarland@journalnet.com

20 ~ XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL

hen Brian Miesch moved to Pocatello from Portland, Oregon, he had no hunting or firearm experience. However he was not out of place at last year’s Idaho Wildavore workshop.

By the end of it, Miesch had bagged himself a buck. Wildavore is a program offered by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game that focuses on adult hunting education, teaching everything from hunting rules and regulations to how to properly butcher a deer. “There’s a steep learning curve when it comes to hunting,” said Liz Horsmon from Idaho Fish and Game, “but if you didn’t have a mentor it’s really hard to start.” The program is hoping to promote hunting, which plays an important role in wildlife conservation, and to pass it on to younger generations. Horsmon said hunting isn’t as popular as it once was in the 1980s, and the number of hunting licenses dropped fairly dramatically in the 1990s and 2000s. But since the start of the Great Recession, hunting has been making a bit of a comeback. According to a study by the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, the number of hunting licenses issued in Idaho increased by 59,000 between 2006 and 2011. Idaho state residents accounted for 39,000 of those licenses. However, the average hunter tends to be older, in their 40s or 50s, so Wildavore tries to reach out to those in their 20s and 30s who are interested in hunting but never got

the chance to learn. “I had no hunting experience growing up,” said Miesch. “When I moved to Southeast Idaho, I just embraced the lifestyle here.” Many students in the Wildavore program moved from other states where hunting isn’t as popular as it is here in Idaho, according to Horsmon. Women also made up a big portion of the class and, like Miesch, many had no experience with firearms. “I’ve always wanted to go hunting,” said Miesch, “specifically for deer but I just didn’t have the resources.” The Wildavore program provides equipment for the training and is a bit of a zero-to-hero training course. Students are taught firearm safety and how to use a rifle and scope, and the rules and regulations to insure a legal hunt. They are given lessons on deer biology and habitat and learn the best hunting techniques. Students also learn how to ethically harvest game and how to correctly dress, handle and cook their kill. “We learned how to take everything from the deer that’s harvestable,” said Miesch. Students are then sent out on a hunt with a mentor to put all their training to the test.

Miesch had a one-on-one hunting session with his mentor, Fish and Game Officer Nathan Stohosky from Malad City. On his first hunt, they took down a buck in Arbon Valley. A big game biologist came to Miesch’s home and helped him properly butcher the animal. “I couldn’t have done it without my mentor,” said Miesch. “This would’ve been really difficult without their help.” In a letter he wrote to Idaho Fish and Game after the course, Miesch described how he was shaking the first time he went to fire a rifle for the first time and how he never pictured himself skinning and butchering an animal. Now Miesch owns his own rifle, feels confident in his abilities to butcher a deer and said he plans on renewing his hunting license this year, and getting both deer and elk tags. “It’s not just a one-time thing for me,” he said. “My family eats organic and I thought this was the best way to put meat in the freezer that’s not treated with antibiotics.” For more information on future Idaho Wildavore workshops, call the Fish and Game office in Pocatello at 208-232-4703 or email Liz Horsmon at Elizabeth.Horsmon@idfg.idaho.gov.

XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL ~ 21

Sighting S

ighting in a rifle is the process of going to the range to make sure it is shooting where you want it to shoot. Besides your rifle, you will need ammunition, safety glasses, hearing protectors and a bipod or something to rest your rifle on. I also take a shooting jacket if I am sighting in a rifle that has significant recoil. However, a shooting jacket also serves to help stabilize the rifle and reduce the effect your pulse, breathing and movement have on your body. I usually fill my range bag with an old sleeping bag I don’t use anymore, and several sweatshirts so that I can rest my rifle on top of it. My range bag also holds my stapler to secure the target. You can also use tape. Once in position to start shooting, first place the sights on the center of the target’s black bull’s-eye, close your eyes and hold for five seconds. When you open your eyes, your sights should still be aligned with the center of the bull’s-eye. If not, adjust your position and repeat the drill until your sights stay aligned with the center of the target. You should also use a target with 1-inch gridlines running vertically and horizontally so you will know how far to adjust your sights to bring the shots back into the center black bull. Typical distances of the target from the shooter are 50 yards for .22 rimfire and

By Smokey Merkley | For the Idaho State Journal iron-sighted center-fire rifles. For scope-sighted center-fire rifles, distances of 100 to 200 yards are typical. The target usually has a black or fluorescent bull’s-eye on which the iron sights of the rifle or the crosshairs of a scoped rifle are aimed. The shooter then fires, adjusts the sights, and shoots again until the bullets are striking the bull. Then the sight in is completed. Pretty easy and straightforward. What could possibly go wrong? Plenty. One school of shooters insists that their bullets strike the center of the bull’s-eye. Another school insists that their bullets strike somewhere above the bullseye, say 2 or even 3 inches. Which is right? Neither. Two things of importance are often overlooked on the rifle range. The first is that the mule deer (we are going deer hunting) is practically never the same distance from the shooter as the target is at the rifle range. The deer may be closer or farther, maybe three or four times farther away. How can we sight in to enable accurate shooting in the field at a target that may be found at any distance? The second thing that is overlooked is that the target or vital area of a mule deer is much larger than the bull’s-eye on the target at the range. What do we aim at on mule deer? Aim for the center of the vital zone. The vital zone is the 10- to 12-

22 ~ XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL

inch area behind the front leg that encompasses the heart and lungs. The area is called the vital zone because any hit in this area is usually fatal, and the animal either drops to the shot or doesn’t go very far. So when we sight in our rifles, we remember that the deer will be at a variable distance and that the vital zone of a deer is of considerable size. We want to sight in for the top of the bullet trajectory to be the same height above the line of sight as the top of the deer’s vital zone. In other words, the trajectory maximum height should be one half the height of the vital zone. As the bullet falls below the line of sight, it can still inflict a fatal hit. The bullet can fall below the line of sight the same distance as the maximum height of trajectory and still hit the vital zone when we aim at the zone’s center. A hit in the lower part of the vital zone is just as fatal as a hit in the center or the upper half of

the zone. When you aim at the center of the vital zone and the bullet trajectory will not go higher than the top of the vital zone, the maximum point blank range is the greatest range at which you can deliver a fatal hit by aiming at its center. If you are scratching your head at this point trying to figure out where you want the bullets to hit the target in order to achieve maximum point blank range, let’s use one of the 30 caliber magnums as an example. Shooting a 180-grain Scirocco II Bullet at 3,350 feet per second and sighting in 3 inches high at 100 yards, you confirm the zero at 300 yards, then shoot at 400 yards and confirm the bullet drop will be 8 inches low at 400 yards. So if a quick shot presented itself, and you don’t have time to use your rangefinder, no mathematics would be needed. At any distance

Maximum Height of Trajectory

Height of Vital Zone

Bullet Trajectory (Red Line) Line-of-Sight (Black Line)

Range to Trajectory Maximum Height

Zero Range Maximum Point-Blank Range

between the muzzle to 350 yards, you hold on the center of the shoulder on a deer, and you will hit the vital area. If the buck is out at 400 yards, holding on top of the back will hit dead center. You bring out the cartridge’s full point blank potential by confirming these distances. A weapon of this type has the potential to group 4 inches at 600 yards

with dedicated practice. If you are using a medium range rifle like a .30-30 Winchester with 150- to 170-grain bullets, or a 444 Marlin with 240- to 300-grain bullets, you will probably want your shots to strike the target 3 inches high with center hold at 100 yards. That would allow you a point blank potential of 200 to 250 yards, depending on the

individual caliber and load. When adjusting the sights on a scope, it is best to adjust in one direction at a time. Theoretically, it shouldn’t matter if you adjust both windage and elevation at the same time, but it sometimes does have an adverse effect. So adjust one direction first, confirm that the adjustment is right, and then adjust the other direction

until it is also correct. After you have completed sighting in your rifle, get away from the bench and practice shooting from prone, sitting kneeling and standing positions. There are no bench rests where we hunt, so get used to shooting from the positions you will be in or can get into when you are in the field.

50 YEARS EXPERIENCE DR. BAKER, DDS

“CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE IN IMPLANT DENTISTRY & DR. JEPSEN, DMD WISDOM TEETH”

DENTAL IMPLANTS WISDOM TEETH EXTRACTION IV SEDATION & ANESTHESIA BONE & SOFT TISSUE GRAFTING TEETH EXTRACTION

232-2807

We’re Here For You!

1177 PARKWAY DRIVE • BLACKFOOT ~ 165 NORTH 14TH AVENUE • POCATELLO

WWW.FACIALANDORALSURGERY.COM XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL ~ 23

David Ashby/Idaho State Journal

Canada geese take flight near the Fort Hall Indian Reservation.

The best hunting and fishing you've NEVER seen By Greg Eichelberger For the Idaho State Journal

FORT HALL — The Fort Hall Bottoms is home to some of the best waterfowl and ring-necked pheasant hunting in the state, while the Michaud Flats area of the reservation, east of the American Falls Reservoir, is one of the premier goose-hunting sites in the state. The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes issue permits for hunting at the Bottoms, which is located southeast of the Snake River, west of Blackfoot and north of Pocatello. But purchasing a permit isn’t cheap and it requires a refundable $100 deposit. Still, many avid hunters like Stan Latimer think the expense is worth it. “I have been hunting here for more than 30 years, on and off,” said Latimer, a senior engineer at ON Semiconductor since 1985. “It’s unique because there are a lot of marshes and is rather remote. It’s like the area around Pocatello about 75 years ago, before development. It’s kind of primitive.” Latimer added that he has bagged ducks, geese and pheasants there, saying there is plenty of waterfowl on the upper reaches of the reservoir. He has also taken his five children there, two of whom have become a physician and an attorney, respectively. “I think taking them hunting has kept them out of trouble all these years,” he said with a laugh. “It can get kind of pricey, but I think it has been well worth it for us.” He also has some very special memories, including one day several years ago, when he saw four moose there.

“I grew up with a father who hunted birds and upland game, oftentimes to feed our family,” Latimer said. The waterfowl season goes from the first weekend in October to mid-January (season permit is $475), while pheasant hunting is allowed from the first weekend in October to mid-December ($500 for a season pass). Refunds will be given on deposits if no violations occur. There is fishing at the Bottoms as well, and it rivals all the fisheries in the state. The springs in the area account for almost 600 billion gallons of water that flow into the Snake River Basin. The reservation in itself provides scenic viewing areas for visitors seeking undisturbed wildlife such as moose, elk, deer, wild horses and buffalo. The buffalo and wild horse herds literally number in the hundreds. The Fort Hall Bottoms fishery numbers are impressive, too. The average number of fish per mile is around 2,000, but increases dramatically during spawning. The spring-fed streams and creeks are ideal for cutthroat and rainbow trout. Surprisingly, the fishery states more than 40 percent of the cutthroats are larger than 20 inches in length. But the Bottom’s waters weren’t always this fertile. Prior to 1993, the Fort Hall Bottoms suffered from years of unrestricted grazing and rapid flooding and drafting of

24 24~~XTREME XTREMEIDAHO IDAHO~~FALL FALLEDITION EDITION2014 2015~~IDAHO IDAHOSTATE STATEJOURNAL JOURNAL

American Falls Reservoir. The ecological cost was loss of bank vegetation, erosion of stream banks, warmer water temperatures and siltation in spawning gravels. Since then, however, restoration enhancement efforts have increased fish population densities fivefold. Stream depths have increased significantly in targeted areas, and new areas of clean spawning gravels have been created. Many areas of actively eroding bank have been stabilized and revegetated. But purists who fish these springs and creeks are blessed with something few blue ribbon fisheries offer. They may seldom see another fly fisherman. When the river is low and clear, the fly fishing is superb, as you wade from bank-to-bank, moving up through a series of pools and riffles and crossing gravel bars. Four- and five-pound cutthroats are routine, and now and then, a trout over 10 pounds is caught. About the only time the Bottoms feel pressure is in late April and May. The reason being that the fishing season opens about a month earlier then that of the other blue ribbon waters. For more information on hunting in the Fort Hall Bottoms area, please call (208) 2394564. For fishing info, call (208) 239-4551.

For the birds This year’s waterfowl hunting season should be excellent By Idaho State Journal staff

terfowl a w n a ic er North Am ion estimates* e populat which is similar to the 2014 estimat

11.6 million, erage. n Mallards: t above the long-term av ate en rc 2014 estim pe and 51 milar to the si is ch hi w e. 3.8 million, -term averag n Gadwall: 4 ove the long ab t en rc r to the 201 pe and 100 hich is simila age. w n, io ill m wigeon: 3.0 ng-term aver n American 7 percent above the lo 1 rcent above d an estimate hich is 19 pe w n, io ill m -term ged teal: 4.1 ove the long n Green-win ate and 98 percent ab tim the 2014 es 14 ilar to the 20 e. ag aver which is sim erage. n, io ill m .5 8 -term av ged teal: ove the long n Blue-win w the 3 percent ab 7 d an percent belo e at estim n, which 17 e. io ag ill er m av .4 4 rm the long-te shovelers: e n er ov th ab t or N en rc n e ate and 75 pe sh and Gam 2014 estim ar tment of Fi ep D o ah Id ur tesy of *Statistics co

Even though this year’s rules and bag limits for waterfowl will be similar to last year in most areas across Idaho, there are some minor season date and bag limit changes. Excluding Zone 1 in Southeast Idaho, most of the state will open for waterfowl hunting on Oct. 17 and run until Jan. 29, and the youth hunt will be Oct 3-4. The season will open a week later than the 2014-15 season in response to hunters who want to hunt as late into winter as possible to take advantage of flights coming out of the north. The youth hunt and general waterfowl season in Zone 1 in Southeast Idaho in the Fort Hall area will have earlier opening dates than the rest of the state. The youth hunt will run Sept. 26-27 and general season will open Oct. 3 and run through Jan. 15. The statewide daily bag limit will be seven ducks; but not more than two female mallards, three scaup, two redheads, two pintails and two canvasback. The scaup season will be shorter than other duck species because of a smaller population. The daily goose bag limit will be four Canada geese; 10 white-fronted geese; and 20 for light geese (Snow and Ross’ geese). The possession limit will be three times the daily bag limit. There will be an early Canada goose hunting season to address crop damage in Bear Lake, Caribou counties, and that portion of Bingham County within the Blackfoot Reservoir drainage. The season will run Sept. 1-15, with a daily bag limit of five and a possession limit of 15. More details on the early goose season will be available at fishandgame. idaho.gov under the “Hunting” tab under “Waterfowl.” The full 2015 Waterfowl Season and Rules brochures will be available in late September at all license vendors and Fish and Game offices, or online at fishandgame.idaho.gov in mid-September. The 2015-16 waterfowl season looks to be excellent nationally with record numbers of ducks available for hunters. Most waterfowl in Idaho are produced from breeding areas in southern Alberta and Saskatchewan, which had fair-to-good nesting conditions during spring, so hunters may not see record flights in Idaho. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reported this summer overall waterfowl numbers for North America are statistically similar to last year and remain strong. Total populations were estimated at 49.5 million breeding ducks in the traditional survey area, which is 43 percent above the 1955-2014 long-term average and the highest count on record. Last year’s estimate was 49.2 million birds. XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL ~ 25

Top 10 Fishing Destinations in East Idaho this Fall T

By David Ashby | dashby@journalnet.com

here’s no better time to hit the water and dunk the worm than in the fall months. The weather is cool, the summertime crowds are gone and many of East Idaho’s fish species start to get hungry, biting anything that looks appetizing. From the Yellowstone National Park region in the north to the ranches in the south, East Idaho is a haven for anglers, and the following 10 fishing destinations provide some of the best angling the Gem State has to offer.

Henry’s Fork

David Ashby/Idaho State Journal

A fly fisherman works the waters near McCrea Bridge in Island Park.

n Locations: Island Park and Ashton If there is a fly fishing heaven, it would probably look like Henry’s Fork. When anglers enter the Island Park region in Fremont County a stone’s throw away from Yellowstone National Park, it’s easy to be overwhelmed. Tributaries flow in all directions, and anglers looking to max out their daily limit of trout have plenty of places with easy access points to try their luck. In the fall months, the river from top to bottom fishes really well, largely because of prolific mayfly hatches, which the fish can’t get enough of during

26 26~~XTREME XTREMEIDAHO IDAHO~~FALL FALLEDITION EDITION2014 2015~~IDAHO IDAHOSTATE STATEJOURNAL JOURNAL

the cool months of September and October.According to Chris Lawson, the manager of Henry’s Fork Anglers, baetis, ant and beetle flies work very well in the fall, with Box Canyon and the waters near the Harriman State Park providing great technical fishing. But be warned — there’s a reason the tributaries of the Henry’s Fork Caldera are considered around the world as a fly fishing mecca. “It’s a challenging area that will test even the best fisherman, which is why so many of them are attracted there,” Lawson said.

South Fork of the Snake River n Location: Menan to Palisades Reservoir To the south of Henry’s Fork flows the stunning South Fork of the Snake River. For 66 miles, the waterway flows through gorgeous mountainous terrain, ultimately ending in the Palisades Reservoir on the Idaho/Wyoming border. “It’s a great river to fish on a dry fly,” Chris Lawson of Henry’s Fork Anglers said. “Anglers can catch plenty of fish even if they don’t have a lot of experience.” Among the most popular

spots is the area in the Swan Valley region, where there’s lots of small islands, gravel bars and riffles to cast a line from. Anglers can even fish for brown trout from mid- to late-December. But unlike Henry’s Fork, accessing the best fishing holes in this area will require the use of a drift boat, particularly in Swan Valley. “Flipping a boat isn’t uncommon because it’s such a big and powerful river,” Lawson said. “Definitely go with a guide if David Ashby/Idaho State Journal you’re not familiar with the The photogenic Fall Creek Falls near Swan Valley cascades into the South Fork of the Snake River, a fly fishing paradise east of Idaho Falls. area.”

Palisades Creek n Location: Irwin As you travel down U.S. 26 towards the Palisades Reservoir, a great hiking and fishing destination lies a few miles off the road. Palisades Creek cascades through the mountains towards its confluence with the South Fork of the Snake River near the Palisades Dam. The roaring creek offers phenomenal technical short-rod fishing, and according to Justin Hayes, the manager of the Lodge at Palisades Creek, the trout there are not very sensitive. But those anglers willing to make the 12David Ashby/Idaho State Journal mile hike along the trail that runs alongside the The cascading rapids of Palisades Creek. creek, a treasure trove of fish are awaiting to

be caught at the high-mountain Upper Palisades Lake. “Palisades Creek has one of the purest streams of Yellowstone cutthroat trout around, particularly in the upper lake,” Hayes said. Hayes said those who make the trek to the upper lake have to engage in what locals call “jungle fishing,” meaning that dressing in long pants and long-sleeve shirts is necessary to combat the area’s large population of hovering horseflies, mosquitoes and other irritating bugs. Even though the insect populations start to die down in the fall months, bringing lots of bug spray is still a good precaution.

Pickles Place

Home of the Atomic Burger and John’s Steak and Seasoning Spice! “Just one taste & you’re hooked!”

“Certified Angus Beef!”

We proudly serve the best steaks on Earth! Something for Everyone!

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner 6:00am-9:00pm (Winter) • 7 days a week 440 South Front Street, Arco • 527-9944 XTREME XTREMEIDAHO IDAHO~~FALL FALLEDITION EDITION2015 2014~~IDAHO IDAHOSTATE STATEJOURNAL JOURNAL~~ 27 27

Snake River (Below the A.F. Dam) David Ashby/Idaho State Journal

The drive to Bear Creek is beautiful, and the fishing is world-class.

Bear Creek n Location: Southwest of Palisades Reservoir At first glance, Bear Creek might be a bit deceiving. But according to Hayes, the year-round catchable cutthroats that call the creek home are pretty easy to catch. “The fish lie in spots where fishermen think they should be,” he said. Bear Creek starts in the mountains of the Caribou Range and empties into the

southwest arm of the Palisades Reservoir, not too far from Palisades Creek and the Swan Valley portion of the South Fork of the Snake River. The meandering alpine valleys surrounding the waters are filled with low-lying brush, which makes backcasting a piece of cake.And the fishing gets better the farther up the trail you go. “The trout aren’t that big, but there’s lots of them,” Hayes said.

n Location: American Falls to Lake Walcott From Oct. 16 to the first Friday of Memorial Day weekend in 2016, the Snake River below the American Falls Dam is primed to become a world-class trout fishery. During this seven-month timeframe, the Bureau of Reclamation limits the outflow from the American Falls Reservoir to save as much water as possible to meet the following year’s irrigation needs. Though the water level is low, locals have always known this is a perfect time to catch a nice-sized rainbow, brown or cutthroat trout. And according to Roger Thompson, the owner of Portneuf River Outfitters, the fishery’s reputation has spread. Last year, anglers from Sun Valley and Jackson,Wyoming, came to his shop, asking for advice

David Ashby/Idaho State Journal

The Snake River Overlook west of American Falls.

on fishing the Snake River below the dam. “And they live among some of the most famous fishing holes in the world and we have people and guides from there coming down to fish here,” Thompson said. Once the water flow is limited, anglers can not use bait or barbed hooks. But if anglers can’t wait until Oct. 16, bass fishing below the dam has been phenomenal this year.

Springfield Lake tion likes to congregate under Game has set the daily trout n Location: Springfield these holes in the moss. So limit at two, with none being Springfield Lake could placing the line dead center is under 20 inches. No bait is aleasily be Homer Simpson’s sure to reel in a big one. lowed and barbless hooks are favorite fishery. Because of its status as required. Not only does it share the a trophy lake, Idaho Fish and name of the city featured in the long-running TV series, but the secret to successful fishing is to look for Homer’s favorite food — donuts. The Biggest & The Best in Town The 66-acre lake located Fresh Meat • Fresh Produce north of the American Falls Reservoir is known for its large moss population, which builds up in the warmer waters. However, there are a number of natural cold water springs that sprout up, creatQuality Hometown Service since 1945 ing holes in the moss buildup. The lake’s trout popula- 301 S. Main • Mackay, ID 588-3361

Ivie Foodliner

David Ashby/Idaho State Journal

Under the green moss at Springfield Lake is a treasure trove of trout.

28 28~~XTREME XTREMEIDAHO IDAHO~~FALL FALLEDITION EDITION2014 2015~ ~IDAHO IDAHOSTATE STATEJOURNAL JOURNAL

Snake River (Above the A.F. Dam) n Location: American Falls to Idaho Falls The autumnal water levels in the Snake River above and below the dam are heavily dependent on summer rainfall and irrigation needs. A summer with strong drought conditions and minimal rainfall can drain the reservoir so fast that by the end of August, fall anglers are literally left in the dust.This almost occurred last year, when the lack of rainfall in May, June and July put extensive pressure on the reservoir’s water resources. But then, Southeast Idaho was slammed with a series of rainstorms in August. “Things were looking really, really grim for American Falls Reservoir,” Roger Thompson

David Ashby/Idaho State Journal

The bridge over the Snake River in Shelley, where anglers have caught a good share of brown trout this year.

of Portneuf River Outfitters said. “But then we had those tremendous rainstorms in that two-week period in August and it really saved our bacon.” In July this year, the American Falls Reservoir was less than half full. But the two primary feeders into American Falls (Palisades Reservoir and Jackson Lake) were over 75 percent full during

the same time period, which bodes well for fall anglers. Another steady series of rainstorms in August and September can easily make this year’s fall fishing above the dam one to remember, so pay attention to weather patterns. Plus, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game is anticipating that the trout levels above the

dam during the fall months will improve. But where should you go along the river to find the biggest fish? There’s plenty of easy access points along the river all the way towards Idaho Falls. But Thompson said there’s a large population of brown trout at the base of the dam in Shelley.

To Watch Idaho State Play Cal-Poly October 3rd! The Winner Will Receive: – Two round-trip tickets on the team charter – Hotel accommodations – Two tickets and transportation to and from the game

Bring Us Your World. We’ll Protect It.

To Enter Go To Bengalscontest.com XTREMEIDAHO IDAHO~~FALL FALLEDITION EDITION2015 2014~~IDAHO IDAHOSTATE STATEJOURNAL JOURNAL~~ 29 29 XTREME

Daniels Reservoir n Location: Near Malad With many of the trophy waters in Southeast Idaho during the fall months, anglers have to pay special attention to the water levels before venturing out. Irrigation needs can often put too much pressure on some of the fisheries, turning an ill-advised fishing trip into a giant waste of time. But Daniels Reservoir is different. Nestled in the sweeping valleys of the Bannock Range about 20 miles northwest of Malad, Daniels Reservoir has a conservation pool built into it. This means the reservoir cannot be drained down to a certain point, giving anglers plenty of opportunities to land that trophy mount long into the autumn months. There’s quite a few rainbow trout over 20 inches in the 375-acre fishery, which can be easily accessed on Daniels Road from Arbon Valley to the north and Malad from the south.

David Ashby/Idaho State Journal

Rory Erchul, left, and Scott Kraus fly fish along a portion of the Portneuf River north of Lava Hot Springs.

Portneuf River IDFG/For the Idaho State Journal

Numerous conservation projects have been started to protect the Blackfoot Reservoir region’s cutthroat trout populations from predatory birds, such as pelicans.

Upper Blackfoot River

n Location: North of Soda Springs The 2011 spawning season was exceptional for the Bonneville cutthroat trout population in the Blackfoot Reservoir, which resulted in a noticeable bump in the populations of 1-year-olds. Now fully grown this year, these trout were expected to come out in force for this year’s spawning season in the Upper Blackfoot River.When the river was opened to anglers at the conclusion of this year’s spawn-

ing season on July 1, many hopeful fishermen believed they could easily catch some stragglers on their way back to the reservoir. Though it was not the bonanza anglers initially suspected, catch rates were still good. In fact, reports from fishermen and biologists indicate a much larger resident population of Bonneville cutthroat trout in the Upper Blackfoot River then initially suspected. If the water holds up long enough, the river that flows into the Blackfoot Reservoir’s south end may produce great results this fall.

30 30~~XTREME XTREMEIDAHO IDAHO~~FALL FALLEDITION EDITION2014 2015~~IDAHO IDAHOSTATE STATEJOURNAL JOURNAL

n Location: Chesterfield Reservoir to Marsh Valley In an issue in Field and Stream magazine from the 1970s, the Portneuf River was named as one of the best streams in the United States for fly fishing. Anglers around the region have multiple reasons why the fishery is no longer held in such high regard. Some blame the introduction of invasive carp. Some blame the ranching in the area that damaged and dirtied parts of the river. Some believe efforts to clean up the water has deprived fish of crucial food sources. Whatever the reason may be, the Portneuf River still offers Southeast Idaho anglers great fly fishing opportunities, particularly in the fall months. From its source in Chesterfield Reservoir, the fishery serves as an important irrigation canal to local farmers and ranchers. But once they quit irrigating, the water gets real cold, real skinny and real clear, which makes locating a school of cutthroat trout to target far easier. There’s no shortage of access points, particularly along the Old Highway 30 north of Lava Hot Springs and U.S. Route 30 east of McCammon. However, fishing is forbidden inside the city limits of Lava Hot Springs. And if you happen to catch some carp instead, the locals will definitely be appreciative.

Idaho State Journal File Photos

Main: Portneuf River Outfitters at 257 N. Main St. in Pocatello. Inset: Roger Thompson, the owner of the store.

Lifelong Obsession

Owner of Pocatello fishing shop looks to retire By Debbie Bryce | For the Idaho State Journal Roger Thompson, owner of Portneuf River Outfitters in Pocatello, started fly fishing more than 40 years ago and he managed to turn his favorite pastime into a long, successful career. Thompson opened his store, located at 257 N. Main St., 11 years ago, and he said it’s been a good run. But now Thompson is looking to sell the store and retire. “We’ve had some interest in the store and it’s encouraging,” he said. As well as a full line of fly fishing and fly casting gear, Portneuf River Outfitters offers a large selection of fly tying and rod building supplies. “We call it fly casting because that’s what most people need help with,” Thompson said. Casting, fly tying and rod building classes are also available at the Old Town store. “It’s mostly a one-person operation, but we have part-time employees who can run the store when we’re gone,” Thompson said. Thompson said he started tying his own flies to save money. Whether he’s fishing for trout in the Portneuf River or angling for their larger ocean-going cousin, the steelhead, he uses a fly pole. He said it’s more about the experience than catching his limit. “I enjoy the quiet and the peace and I guess I’m usually just thinking, ‘Why aren’t the fish biting,’” Thompson said. He learned to fish on Rapid Creek south of Inkom with his grandmother, using grasshoppers for bait. A native of Pocatello, Thompson worked at All Seasons Angler in Idaho Falls

for several years before opening his own store. He also worked for Union Pacific Railroad and Ash Grove Cement If you are interested in purchasing Company. Portneuf River Outfitters, please call While he said his wife Roger Thompson at 208-232-4776. Donna also enjoys fly fishing, she doesn’t quite share his enthusiasm for the sport. “If it’s fishing, not catching, she doesn’t like it,” Roger said. “She’s not as obsessed as I am, I guess.” Roger fishes year-round and tries to make it to the water at least once a week. But out of all of the fishing holes in East Idaho, he said the Portneuf River is still his favorite stream. “I’ve fished it for 30 years,” he said.“I guess it’s my home water.” He said it’s hard to say exactly how many flies he typically carries with him on any given fishing trip. “You usually only use one or two, but you have to take five boxes,” he joked. When he sells the store and finally retires, Roger plans to move to Sumner, Washington to be closer to his grandchildren. Earlier in August, Roger was house hunting in the Evergreen State. While he plans to stop working, he won’t stop fishing. “There’s a lot of different fly fishing in Washington,” Roger said.

For Sale

XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL ~ 31

吀䠀䔀伀唀吀䐀伀伀刀匀䄀刀䔀䌀䄀䰀䰀䤀一䜀⸀ 圀䠀䔀刀䔀圀䤀䰀䰀夀伀唀䜀伀㼀

32 ~ XTREME IDAHO ~ FALL EDITION 2015 ~ IDAHO STATE JOURNAL