Montana Woods N Water July 2016 Print Edition

Publisher’s Notes Raf Viniard ~ Publisher Has this weather been nice or what? I had to put on a long sleeve shirt the other day…in July? Snow is forecasted for the higher elevations in Glacier Park already. At least we are getting a shower or two along the way to keep the fire threat down.

The out of towners and vacationers are here and for our local economy we love it. Traffic can be a little hectic at times but be patient with our visitors. They are trying to take in all this beauty that surrounds us...that I think we take for granted sometime. People from out of town spend a lot of money to visit Montana and we get to live here every day…isn’t that awesome?

Now that we got the 4th of July behind us and summer is in full swing it is time to break out that fishing and camping gear! Oh, and the huckleberries are starting to come in as well. A few fresh garden vegetables are starting to roll in so canning season is right around the corner.

Personally I am more of a fall guy, I can’t wait for hunting season to open again. In less than 60 days I get to slip back into the woods and do some bow hunting and rustle up some grouse. Bowhunters start getting that gear ready and practicing, it will be here before you know it.

The June issue had a lot of pictures where this month has more content. During the summer months things slow down in regards to hunting pictures. If you catch a big fish this summer send us those pictures and we will be glad to post them on Facebook or in the publication.

I want to thank all our contributing writers and photographers. Our Pro-Staff writers list is growing, see side bar to right. I also want to thank our advertisers for their continued support. Without them there would be no print publication. The August issue maybe smaller as I have an old hunting and fishing buddy coming in from out of town for a couple of weeks, so I plan on spending time with him and wetting a hook and picking huckleberries while I have the extra hands.

If you are out on the water please don’t drink and operate a boat. Same goes for drinking and driving...don’t do it!

When on the water wear those Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) and if wade fishing watch those currents.

Enjoy your summer but be safe, make some Montana memories and keep “Living The Dream”.

Guest Writers This Month: Nancy S. Mehaffie, pg. 30, Montana History Comes Alive Mike Maxwell, pg. 5, Carp, The New Bacon

What’s Inside Hunting 2 Fishing 4 Archery Talk 5 Free Speech 7 Patriot 10 Montana Dan 11 Sportsman’s Meditation 13 Yesterday’s Outdoorsman 14 Shooting 15 Tony Rebo Unleashed 18 Fly Fishing 19 New Contest 21 Outdoor Toys 22 More Fly Fishing 24 Outdoor Tech 26 Mountain Memories 28 Past Events 30 Local Celebs/Next Gen 32 The Root Cellar 33 Seen On Blog Only www.montanawoodsnwater.com/Blog Old Charlie Cup

Staff Publisher/Editor/Layout/Sales: Raf - 406-407-0612 Photographer Robin Hao Pro Staff Writers This Month: Chuck Stranahan Pastor Jim Sinclair Dan Helterline Tony Rebo Carol Cady Alan Clarke Nathan Albertson Robert Pierson Lori Goodman

Editorial Policy: Montana Woods N Water (MWW) reserves Cover Photo: Eagle 1 and Eagle 2 you are cleared for landing. This photo appropriately represents America the right to refuse to publish any form of content that does not include the author’s this July as we celebrate our Independence. Photographer unknown, this is a stock photo. name, complete mailing address, and/or valid phone number or e-mail address.

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HUNTING

Start Getting Ready

by Raf Viniard

In less than sixty days Grouse is on the menu. A few days after that, it will be time to hit the forest in hopes of launching an arrow down range at a big bull elk, deer or bear. Oh it gets better…a few days after archery season opens, fall bear firearm season opens.

Summer time is very busy and hot so most are not in the hunting mode or planning phase. Between the many summer events, family outings, vacations, fairs and the never ending list of homesteading chores that needs to be done such as home repairs, wood cutting, fence mending, haying, gardening, canning, huckleberry picking and the like makes the summer go by really fast. Hunting season slips up fast!

The long hot days of summer just seems to take its toll and by September I am ready to hit the woods to soak up the cool fall air and take in the Montana Mountain’s fall beauty. Planning for the upcoming hunting season is just as much fun as the hunting itself. By September I have hopefully done my pre-season scouting, checked the game cameras, tuned the bow, checked my rifle and readied the fishing gear to snag a bucket full of salmon.

So what is really needed to be done in July and August?

Start studying your maps and satellite images of the areas you plan on hunting. Has or is the area you plan on hunting been timbered or burned? Has something in the area changed from last year. Lay some foot work and learn your area(s) topography.

Start developing a plan and a tentative schedule as to your fall hunting adventures. The rest of your family or co-workers might have plans that conflict with yours or vice versa. Money may need to be set aside for trips and other expenses such as new equipment, travel, tags, etc. The summer is the best time to try and make some extra cash with side jobs.

Get those game cameras out, they could save you a lot of steps and glassing. Be sure and position them looking north if possible to prevent sunrise/sunset glare and fogging. Think about securing them in a box if you are placing them near a high traffic area.

If you hunt from a tree stand, check it over to make sure it is safe and does not need any repairs. Double check that safety belt as well.

Clear shooting lanes and hiking trails now.

Inspect all your hunting clothes, boots and hunting accessories, such as binoculars, spotting scopes, rifle scopes, reload or purchase ammo as needed. Sharpen up the knife and check your survival equipment. Replace or purchase new items as needed.

If you are a bowhunter, pull that bow out and get it to your local bow shop for an inspection to make sure all the cables, strings, cams, etc. are in good shape and safe to use. Don’t wait until the week before season opens…you might not get it back in time for opening day.

Check those arrows for straightness, cracks, splinters, lost or missing fletching’s. Make sure your broadheads are razor sharp.

Practice, Practice, Practice. Practice awkward shooting positions and attend as many local 3D shoots that you can to hone your shooting skills and distance judging.

Check that hunting rig over and make sure it will be ready for the many miles of rough rocky mountain roads you may be traveling. Start budgeting for extra fuel costs. If you use ATV’s make sure they are ready as well. If you use a camper or tent make sure they are clean, stocked, in good repair and ready to use.

Start dehydrating some fruits and making some jerky for fall snacks. Go to your local thrift stores and stock up on snacks and quick meals.

If you have kids that will be hunting with you this year, get them involved in the scouting, planning and prepping. They learn by watching, listening and doing just as you do.

Get in shape and if you need a physical…go see the doctor and make sure you are ready for the fall adventures or an exercise regimen.

Check your license and tags and make sure they are all current. Read and re-read the regulations to make sure you are aware of any changes or new rules/laws.

Clean out the freezer by BBQing, canning or dehydrating any extra meat from last year. Start making room…think positive!

Not last, but very important...spend time with your family and friends before the pace of hunting season is upon you. Guys take care of Momma or that girlfriend, she will become a hunting widow in a few days.

Most of all when you are at church on Sunday keep talking to the man upstairs asking that you, your friends and family will have a safe and bountiful year. Never take a day with the family, in the woods or on the water for granted. Every day is a gift from the man upstairs.

Start getting ready now, your winter meals may just depend on it!

2

FISHING

A Cane Pole, A Tiling Spade and A Bobber

By Raf Viniard As a kid I didn’t have any fancy rod and reel until I was much older...the cane pole was the tool of the trade for fishing any body of water you could walk or bicycle to.

Cane poles were 8 to 10 feet and were cut from cane thickets along the creeks. The longer the better for reaching further out into the water from the bank or a boat. Finding a good cane pole was as much of an art as fishing itself. They were cut green, stripped of their leaves and dried.

After they were dried they were fitted with about 20 feet of braided cotton line. The first tie was just above the butt end, right above where you held it. The braided line ran to the tip where it was wound several times around the tip and tied off. The extra line wound around the tip was there in case you had to cut your line, that you still had some extra line to fish with.

The remaining 6-8 feet of extra line hung from the tip of the pole. Your sliding bobber, split shot and # 4 gold or brown Aberdeen hook was attached at the end of the line. To transport your cane pole to your fishing hole you simply wrapped the line around the length of the pole, sliding the hook in a tiny hole in the end of the handle. You stuffed some extra weights, hooks, bobber and a stringer in your shirt/pant pockets or in the bait container. You threw the cane pole over your shoulder and then set out to find some worms to go into your bait container which ranged from one of Mom’s good Mason or Ball canning jars, to an old bucket or soup can. As long as it held a little dirt/grass and some worms/grasshoppers it would work. Even shirt pockets were used if time was of the essence.

Digging for worms was pretty easy on the farm. Any shovel or pitch fork would work. Sometime I would get lucky and lift up old boards or a piece of tin and find them just laying there like gold...begging to go fishing. As the summer wore on, the worms were a little deeper and required a good shovel to get down to them. I loved grabbing my Dad’s tiling spade (type of shovel) to dig for worms out by the cow barn. With one thrust into the soft cow manure you could reach a foot or more in depth. One or two turned shovels full of cow manure along the barn’s foundation and you had all the worms you needed. Red ones, green ones, pink ones and a few grubs as added bonuses. In my excitement to go fishing, the shovel usually got left right where I was digging for worms. My plan was to always put it back where I got it from when I got back from fishing. That was the “Golden Rule” on the farm.

Now that shovel would set in the barn for months and Dad would never need it. It never failed the next day...okay maybe a few days later you would hear Dad yell, “Boys where is my tiling spade?” I would shout back, “I’ll get it!” Now keep in mind the term “Boys” was used. My poor brother...he always managed to get thrown in the mix when the shovel came up missing. I usually knew exactly where I left it and ran quickly to get it. I was operating on borrowed time and Dad’s time was more precious than mine from the tone of his voice.

I would take off in a dead run towards the cow barns, praying the entire sprint and trying to remember EXACTLY where I left it and thinking, “I hope the cows had not stepped on it and broke the handle or better yet covered it in cow poop.”

Continued on page 19.

4

ARCHERY TALK

Carp, The New Bacon!

By Mike Maxwell Well that might be a stretch but the idea is the same as hog huntin’. Eliminate as many as possible and have some fun doing it! Not all of us are lucky enough to have the time to fly across the country to help fight the good fight, exterminating hogs! As much fun as hog hunting looks like, I need action closer to home preferably.

Luckily we have carp here in Montana! Well, unlucky really. Like hogs, Carp are an invasive species and extremely prolific. A large adult female often weighs 15-20 pounds or more and may have 200,000 eggs or more! Carp are mostly bottom feeders that vacuum up about anything that fits in their mouth, like bass and walleye eggs. Obviously keeping carp in check helps the more desirable fish thrive.

How do we keep Carp in check you ask? Fishing of course- with a bow! It’s the perfect off season sport for any fisherman or hunter; especially for you bow hunters. You’re out on a boat, it’s sunny and warm, having fun and keeping those instincts and muscles in shape for fall. As if you needed one more reason to take the boat out…

Fishing with a bow? How? I use an old bow I bought at a pawn shop for 20 bucks. Bows get beat up and wet in the excitement of landing 15-25 pound fish all day.

That’s no way to treat a bow that costs as much as a new rifle! My advice is use a bow you can afford to break and a draw weight you can shoot for hours on end. Bowfishing is a close range sport so the top of the line bows are overkill unless you are in deep water. Use a mechanical release! Your fingers will thank you. I keep a fish bopper on board for the big'uns when I'm trying to get my arrow back (http:// newlifecarving.com/t/fish-bopper ).

Hint: Because water bends light, (refraction) fish appear closer to you than they really are. When you are first learning to estimate range and point of aim, aim low, then aim lower. Overshooting is 99% of the misses you will make.

AMS makes the Retriever Reel (http://www.amsbowfishing.com/bowsreels/ams-retriever-reels/ams-retrieverr-pro.html). In my experience it is the fastest way to get the arrow back on the bow after a shot. Other reels are available ranging from a simple spool to baitcasting type reels.

I like the Retriever because it is simple, rugged and quick between shots. When you have 20 or 30 fish cornered in a pond, every second counts.

I like the brass wheel type rest because it is tough. I’ve broken several other rests before installing the brass wheel rest. It out-lived one bow and is on bow # 2 now for about the 12th season. I fish with a couple friends who use the whisker biscuit bowfishing rest and love it. The bowfishing rest is designed to support the heavier fishing arrows.

Arrows come in a few types. Fiber glass, heavy aluminum, and fiberglass inside aluminum-assembled or blank shafts. I prefer to buy fiberglass shafts and install my own tips. The shafts are cheap and tough and I hate the typical tip found in almost all stores that carry bowfishing gear. After several years of lost fish and tip parts, I found the Garpoon tip.

Continued on page 6.

5

ARCHERY TALK CONTINUED Now I exclusively use the Cajun Archery Garpoon Tip (http:// www.cajunbowfishing.com/bowfishing-products/points/ garpoon-bowfishing-point). These tips are tough, simple, quick and easy to use. Bass Pro Shops carry these tips and preassembled arrows for a good price.

Now about that boat. I’ve seen guys with custom aluminum decks built over the front of the boat with hundreds of dollars in lights and other gadgets. Any boat will work though. The more you bowfish, the more you will bowfish. Plan ahead!

My boat is a flat bottom with an aluminum deck welded between the seat boxes. This turns the whole boat into a deck so I’m up off the water. I also added a few LED lights for night fishing. If you like bowfishing during the day, wait ‘till you try it at night! I put a trolling motor on the front so I can steer the boat and be ready for a shot at a moment’s notice. With MinnKota motors just unbolt the upper unit and turn it around for a front mount. I went with a flat bottom because Carp are often found in very shallow water when they are spawning.

When: Carp spawn from April to July depending on water temp. The peak of the spawn is usually June depending on water temp. If it is hot enough to fish in shorts, shallow water usually has carp moving around from spring and into fall. I try to target warm or hot weather so the fish are active and it’s just more fun if it’s hot enough to jump in once in a while.

Where: Look for shallow weedy bays or lagoons. Listen for splashing like salmon in shallow water. The males will push the females up into just inches of water when they are in a frenzy. Get a good pair of polarized glasses. If the water is murky from the spawning activity, the glasses allow you to see “shadows” of fish better. If you don't have a boat or the water is too shallow for a boat, walk the shore or wade the shallows looking for a fin or a shadow in the weeds.

Another bonus is that most, if not all, reservoirs in Washington, Idaho and Montana that have carp also have trout and walleye. If the carp are laying low, go fish for something else! Check the reg’s as other species may be legal to bowfish should you run across another species.

Who knows, maybe bowfishing 150 pound gator gar and hog hunting across the country will be your new thing! Be safe, have fun, fish when it's hot-hunt when it's not!

6

FREE SPEECH

Independence or Dependent

by Raf Viniard

We just came off July 4th celebrating our nation’s Independence, it was our birthday as Americans. Just before that we celebrated Memorial Day remembering our current service members and fallen patriots that are not with us anymore. Many died far from home defending America and gave their last full measure. These two holidays are not about drinking beer, family picnics, cookouts, fireworks, camping trips, etc. They are supposed to represent what made and makes America the greatest nation on this earth. Our country and both political parties are so divided and Americans are so distracted and out of touch with the real world and what is going on around them.

Our society is beginning to be made up of more takers than producers. Any government that is big enough to give you everything you want is big enough to take everything from you. Just because you may have a good job today, a pension or a 401K doesn’t mean you will get to keep it. A lot of folks had good affordable health insurance and a doctor they liked, not anymore Obamacare took care of that. Look at Venezuela, a country with some of the largest oil reserves in the world and now they fight for food, toilet paper and medicine in the streets. If you are on any kind of government assistance program or retirement it can stop tomorrow. After all you are just a number on a card or in a government controlled computer, its not personal to them. The lines have become very blurred as to what is a privilege verses a right.

I had a gentlemen not too long ago tell me, “My land and house are paid for and I am drawing my retirement and social security so I don’t really care what happens.” Really, what if his checks stop coming? Just stop paying your property taxes and see how fast your name comes off that mortgage free deed as it sells on the court house steps, so really you are a renter. When the money stops how are you going to eat or better yet survive?

Businesses close every year across NW Montana because they are tired of the paperwork, rules, regulations or trying to find people that actually want to work. Running a business is not as easy as it looks. It is time to wake up, your job, your business, your retirement, your health, your social status, your bank account can all change overnight.

Reflect back on the rights that you have lost over the years. Nowadays you need to have a permit, a license, inspection or some type of federal, state, county or city paperwork to do just about anything. You can’t even build a pond on your own land without the government’s permission. You can’t get married, drive a car without the states permission and even most of our churches are yoked with the federal government 5013C status. Churches will soon have to address transgender issues as I was just reading today. Traveling on a plane anymore has got really personal. Warrants are issued like cheap confetti and our courts are becoming debtor prisons. You no longer have any privacy.

My fellow Montanans things aren’t looking good for America. As I was writing this article today it was supposed to be about how Americans have become so dependent on the system and some ideas on weaning yourself off the system.

Some of you have heard the term “sheeple”. On the farm every year we killed all kinds of farm animals to eat. Of all the farm animals, the sheep was the only one that would just give up when you grabbed it by the wool and sit it on its butt to cut its throat to bleed out. All the other animals fought to the very end and with their last breathe. I know this sounds crude to some but are we being lead to the slaughter, are you a “sheeple”? Are you like a sheep waiting for the slaughter, have you just given up and don’t care anymore? Your future and your kids future are at risk. There is no sitting on the fence, choose your stance because it will effect you and your kids eventually.

My phone beeped during this writing and it was Fox News announcing that former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton would not be charged for her mishandling of classified material or various other charges such as perjury and lying to the American people under oath.

As a retired military member that held a Top Secret clearance...rest assured I would have been prosecuted to the fullest extent of Uniformed Code of Military Justice, lost my career, my security clearance, and my retirement if I had left a document marked “Confidential” laying out in the open and unsecured, let alone a Top Secret Eyes Only document. I can’t imagine what my superiors would have said if I wanted to create my own personal server at home to conduct official military business and personal business on said server.

Nowadays we can clearly see there is one set of rules and laws for the poor, working class and a different set of rules and laws for the elite and the politicians. Our legal system is on a sliding scale based on income, status and who we are connected to. Continued on page 9.

7

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8

FREE SPEECH CONTINUED When I heard the announcement that Hillary was going to get off scot free, I was literally sick to my stomach and stepped outside to take a deep breath...our rule of law was just openly attacked. I felt anger and betrayed by those in Washington that are supposed to uphold the oath they took, especially our top cops. Our legal system just took a sucker punch and direct hit with a nuclear weapon. Until the American people pull their head out of their butt and stop this politically correct BS and start holding our elected officials accountable, I am afraid we are headed for a bad train wreck and a lot sooner than most can even imagine. Politicians are more worried about their paycheck, getting re-elected or their retirement, they don’t give a darn about the people that put them in office...or did we?

Here in Montana most of us hold the Declaration of Independence, The Constitution and the Bill of Rights close to our heart and truly believe in defending what our Founding Father’s entrusted us with in order that we and our kids might live a life of liberty, the pursuit of happiness and justice for all.

We believe we are endowed by our creator with those inalienable rights from above, not the government or any man, king, queen or earthly ruler. Our country was founded on solid Judeo Christian principles and beliefs. If not, our money would not have the words “In God We Trust” printed on it. It does not say in “Allah We Trust” or “In The U.S. Government We Trust”. Our government spends almost 2.4 BILLION dollars everyday. We are over 19 TRILLION in debt and that is backed by nothing but promises and supposedly good faith.

Where do you think we are headed? Do you trust our politicians and government officials to do the right thing and uphold their oath they took? Do you actually believe a Washington politician gives one care about your personal situation? If you do just call him/her and I bet you talk to an aid who may or may not get a message to them. Good luck...I am sure the check will be in the mail! The political machine moves very slow.

I could go on and on but I am not sure it is worth trying to educate the public anymore. After the last seven and half years I am beginning to think that maybe its to late. If we try to make noise and practice our right of free speech, freedom of the press, freedom of religion or assembly, we are labeled as domestic terrorists, right wing extremist, nuts, racist, bible thumping gun slingers and other names. I am sure our founding fathers were labeled as conspiracy theorist, trouble makers, traders or much worse, so I will take it as a badge of honor.

The 2nd Amendment exists solely to fight a tyrannical government or foreign invaders and to protect our property. When the 2 nd Amendment was written our founding Fathers had just thrown off an oppressive and tyrannical government. It is not about the right to own a gun for hunting or target practice. It is all about defense and protection of one’s life and property…period. Foreign or domestic.

While they want to take our guns and ammo they continue to stock pile every ABC agency in the government with ammo and weapons that the everyday citizen cannot have without Federal permission. Hollow points are not even used in the military during conflict.

For some of you there is nothing I could say to convince you America is headed in the wrong direction. Life is just rosy! I refer back to Pastor Jim’s article on page 14, we are headed BACKWARDS fast. For those of you that understand...all I can say is prepare yourself mentally, physically, emotionally, materially and most important spiritually for what is about to befall our Great Country. Every empire in history has its day of reckoning and I fear ours is just around the corner.

I joined the military right after the Carter administration and I thought things were bad then. The military was in shambles in the late 70’s early 80’s. President Reagan turned the military around and made it something to be proud of, not only as a military member but for the everyday American. I recently read where our Marines and Air Force aircraft mechanics are having to go to the aircraft bone yards to find spare parts in order to keep our planes flying and defending our country, but we can spend millions and billions of dollars to study some of the craziest stuff or line some politicians pocket. We recently witnessed our sailors being humiliated on public television by Iran. When I was in the military the last thing you did was surrender your weapon and if captured you kept your mouth shut, except for name rank and serial number. No man was to ever be left behind and if captured you knew help was on the way. We did not negotiate with terrorist… period. If an American called for help it was a race to see who could get there first, not a “ wait and see what happens “ event and then blame it on some freaking video.

Some will say why are you writing this type of article in a hunting, fishing and trapping publication. We cover the lifestyle that we as NW Montanan’s cherish. Your very right to hunt, fish or trap on public lands is being threatened as I write. The right to trap on public lands is under direct attack and it isn’t looking good right now. You stop the trapping of wolves and bobcats and see how long the elk and deer herds last. Once trapping is banded on public lands it won’t be long until hunting is banded and then next will be fishing...mark my words.

Most will never care about what is going on around them until the day they can no longer access “their” favorite outdoor sport, forest, river, mountain road or hunting/fishing spot. Some will say that will never happen...it already has. Once that steel gate is closed and locked, your right to drive on a federal/state road just ended at that steel pipe or berm. By the way your tax dollar paid for that device to deny you entry into public lands that your tax dollars pay for. Did you get a say in the matter? Was it on a ballot, did your U.S. Senator contact you about it? To cut a dead tree you have to get a permit and it doesn’t matter how cold you get...oh yes you are losing your rights everyday. Want to kill some food, catch some fish to feed your family you better have a hunting license and it doesn’t matter how broke or hungry you are. The forest and the mining industries have been decimated here in NW Montana, all because of a bunch of folks that don’t even live here.

Wake up America the clouds are darkening and the winds are starting to blow, the tattered and torn American flag is starting to whip in the wind. This isn’t a little prairie tornado kicking up a little dust, pull off those rose colored glasses and blinders. Start preparing for any kind of storm that may hit your family, community, state or this country. The government will not always be there to fix your problems.

9

PATRIOT

The Constitution – Have we lost it?

By Robert Pierson

Is the Constitution just an old piece of paper, or is it something more? Many people in our country now have no idea what it says nor what their rights, as citizens are. The Bill of Rights (the first 10 Amendments to the Constitution) list some of the rights we have as a result of our humanity. Many would say they are given to us by our Creator, and that said, they cannot be taken away by any person or government.

The republican form of government (NOT A DEMOCRACY!), is unique in world history.

Only the Romans had anything similar. All other governments are/have been some type of oligarchy, or rule by a few, who consider themselves better than everyone else and dictate to their subjects what they can and cannot do, and how they can do it. In other words they give you your rights, which means they can take them away.

Our Constitution was set up to protect the rights given to us by God, rights to Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness (property). The Bill of Rights lay out what some of these rights are, but the basic idea is you have a right to your stuff, and the right to protect it.

So to look at this from a less cumbersome perspective, consider a caveman (Barney), and his family, and no government! They hunt, kill, gather and process stuff. They make clothes, footwear, utensils, etc. Does another caveman (the government?) have the right to take their stuff? NO! And Barney has the right to defend his stuff and his family. But, where Barney's rights end is where someone else's rights begin. You don't have the right to take any of Barney's stuff either.

Now we throw in government. The Declaration of Independence states the government was instituted to protect these rights!. Do you think they are doing that? The money you earn is your stuff. Do they have the right to steal it, and give it to someone else?

Do they have the right to force your children to attend their schools, to use your tax dollars to support abortion, to force you to buy health insurance? Does it seem to you that the Constitution is no longer being followed by anyone in leadership in government? Who is responsible for this mess? What can be done about it?

First let us consider that the Constitution is designed for a moral people, the majority of whom believe they will answer to their creator for what they have done?

Second, I will say that the citizens of this country, past and present, are responsible for the mess we are in. Have we read the Constitution and taught it to our children? The government schools won't teach it. Do we take a little time from NASCAR and Dancing with the Stars to listen or read about freedom issues, or to truly analyze candidates that are running, looking into their background. Do we even vote?

The other piece of this is the absence of our churches in teaching morality and ethical behavior. It was John Adams whom I paraphrased above concerning a moral people.

Does your church teach morality and the Constitution? Why not? The republican form of government came directly out of the Bible.

The government is not concerned about morality. The Bible gave us the 10 Commandments. We need to get back to them.

With an invigorated moral and ethical foundation, led by our churches, we will see our way back to adherence to the Constitution!

10

MONTANA DAN

Time to Fish

by Dan Helterline

June was a great month to grab a rod and reel and hit the water, not being tied to the Government mule this year I had more time to sample some of the local waters so to speak. This year's spring seemed to be a couple weeks ahead of schedule so by the time June rolled around the fishing opportunities locally were endless.

Alexis and I spent Memorial Day weekend camped at Lake Mary Ronan fishing for perch and Kokanee salmon. The perch seemed to be the only fish we could get to bite during the daytime and we caught a good mess of them that we fried up right in camp, man there isn't too many fish that can trump freshly fried perch! The Kokanee on the other hand seemed reluctant to bite during daylight hours and we had our best luck jigging for them at night. The buddy I was fishing with had several floating lights that we would deploy off each side of the boat, this supposedly attracts the bait that the salmon feed on, and will help keep them under your boat once they move in to feed. It seemed to work fairly well and once the bite started we had consistent action for several hours. The salmon were running ten to twelve inches and if there is a better fish smoked I've yet to discover it. A small piece of shrimp on a glow hook below a Swedish Pimple was the set up we were having the most luck with. Starting last season I started jigging with the same rod and reel that I use in the winter through the ice. Jigging over the side of the boat Alexis and Dan with Father’s Day supper! eliminates the need for a longer rod. I've started using a 42” Perch Assault rod built by Mike Howe and I've become very fond of them. They have a ultra sensitive tip that is required to catch light biting kokanees and are very reasonably priced for a custom built ice fishing rod.

The next hot fishing tip I got came from Cougar Ray Baenen of Libby, he had been doing exceptionally well on very large Kokanee at an undisclosed lake west of Kalispell. This is Ray's favorite salmon spot so he swore me to secrecy, the only clue I can give you to its location is it lies somewhere between Upper and Lower Thompson Lakes. The salmon Ray had been catchin were pushing two pounds so I was eager to get up with him and catch some of these hawg Kokanees. Ray was right on the mark and I spent Father's Day with him and Alexis reeling in 12” to 16” salmon, these were definitely the biggest kokanees I've caught to date. Unlike Lake Mary Ronan we caught these salmon trolling a variety of dodgers ahead of several different wedding ring type spinners that were tipped with White Shoepeg corn for bait. We used downriggers to get our lures and bait down to thirty feet were the salmon were suspended, and had a fairly steady bite all day. I will have to admit that was a pretty good Fathers Day hanging out with Ray and Alexis catching a limit of tasty Kokanees!

Continued on page 12.

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MONTANA DAN CONTINUED My last fishing trip for the month was downstream from town, towards Trout Creek on the Noxon Reservoir, I had heard through the rumor mill that people were once again catching walleyes so I immediately hooked up my boat and headed west in the morning.

The rumors were right and I caught eight walleye the first day fishing solo, I was able to talk Jeff Durkin and Rafe Reich into going a couple days later and we had another good day and boated nine walleye all one to three pounds, perfect for eating. We were employing the same methods that worked earlier in the spring downriver, slowly trolling bottom bouncers and walleye spinners baited with nightcrawlers. I can't express how awesome it is to have a walleye fishery within an hour from my house, these are an immensely popular sport fish and it is very unfortunate that this fishery is not supported by our own Fish and Game Dept, but I digress.

All in all a pretty good June, I'm headed to Terrace Lake in the morning with Alexis and one of her friends, it's been too many years since I hiked into a mountain lake to fish so I'm looking forward to give that another whirl. Later this month I'm driving to Westport, Washington to spend my 50th birthday tuna fishing with my brother Nick, this is a bucket list trip that I've wanted to accomplish for some time so stay tuned and hopefully I will have some good tuna tales in the August's issue!

Pictured Top Row: Dan and Jeff Durkin with three keepers and Jeff with a nice 3 pounder.

Pictured Bottom Row: Rafe Reich with a nice days catch and a two pounder

12

SPORTSMAN’S MEDITATION

Are You Going Forward, Backward or Just Sitting in Neutral?

By Pastor Jim Sinclair We had just spent four incredible days on the Oregon coast with our family and all of our grandkids, we played games and sat on the beach and had a stellar few days together.

On our way home we were to stop in Eugene, OR and rendezvous with a friend and drop off our granddaughter for a trip to Washington D.C. All was going well, we stopped about two hours from Eugene for some lunch, having such a good time and we all jumped in the car and headed toward Eugene. I’m not kidding, we were are about a mile from our exit and my lovely wife says these words, “Has anyone seen my purse?” Need I say more, all of us had gotten up and walked right by it on our way out. We quickly called the restaurant and they confirmed the mishap. So we made the drop and headed back to our previous lunch destination.

I learned a lot on that trip, the biggest thing was, I don’t like to go “BACKWARDS” I like to go “FORWARD” It reminded me of a time when God’s people complained and always wanted to go “BACKWARDS” Listen to them, Numbers 14: 1-4, 1 Then the whole community began weeping aloud, and they cried all night. 2 Their voices rose in a great chorus of protest against Moses and Aaron. "If only we had died in Egypt, or even here in the wilderness!" they complained. 3 "Why is the Lord taking us to this country only to have us die in battle? Our wives and our little ones will be carried off as plunder! Wouldn't it be better for us to return to Egypt?" 4 Then they plotted among themselves, "Let's choose a new leader and go back to Egypt!"

God wanted his people in the “Promised Land” a land flowing with milk and honey, and they were determined to go “BACKWARDS”. All these people had to do was believe God and move FORWARD and they could have the land they were given by God. Maybe we should assess our life as well. Some of us are living in the land of…worries, anxiety, depression, self-pity, brokenness, pride, selfishness, hatred, lust and it is all about me (do what I wanna do in life) complacency.

Satisfaction, (meaning we are satisfied with where we are). I have learned going backwards is a pain, maybe it’s time to make a move FORWARD, and never go back to the things that defeat us.

P.S. Just make SURE you have your wife’s purse! Keep “livin the GOOD Life. “ Pastor Jim.

*************** When you make a mistake and the devil comes and tells you 'You're no good,' you don't have to take on the guilt and condemnation he wants to put on you.

No! You can immediately confess your mistake to God, thank Him for forgiving you and cleansing you with the blood of Jesus, and move forward in the victory of His grace and forgiveness.

Joyce Meyer Even if you fall on your face, you're still moving forward.

Victor Kiam 13

YESTERDAY’S OUTDOORSMAN

Yesterday’s Outdoorsman & Outdoor Vet

by Raf Viniard It is not often we get to meet someone that has lived 100 years and especially a World War II veteran.

Couple 100 years of life experiences and you have a man that has seen and done a lot.

Whom am I talking about? Mr. Homer T. Davis of Troy, MT. Mr. Davis turned 100, 7 June, 2016. The Halfway House Bar & Grill threw him one heck of a birthday party. Locals and relatives from all over the United States were present to celebrate with Mr. Davis. Thirty seven relatives from Nebraska, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, California, Oregon, Idaho, Washington and Texas was on hand to throw Mr. Davis a party of a lifetime. The place was packed with locals as well. With beautiful weather and the mood to party down with aka “Homer” it was a fun time for all, young and old.

The band “Country Comfort” brought in the entertainment, locals and family members brought potluck dishes. Mitch “Hoss” Fahland Catering cooked up some brisket that would make your tongue reach up and smack your nose. There was so much to eat it was unimaginable. The staff of the Halfway House Bar & Grill kept the libations flowing and whoever, made the Lemon Huckleberry Pound cake…you out did yourself? Homer was the center of attention, he leaned back in the chair with that black cowboy hat on and one after another reached out to hug his neck or shake his hand. It was a big day for Mr. Davis, his family and friends.

Now let’s look at the man of the hour and see where his humble beginnings began. Homer was born in Sylvia, NC 7 June 1916. Now Mr. Davis’s memory is a little shaky, his hearing is getting a little weak and he can’t cut the rug like he used to but when he got on a roll about something you better listen close, story is a coming.

Mr. Davis was not raised with a silver spoon in his mouth. He was raised a country boy and knew the meaning of hard work and doing without. His family fed themselves from the garden, fished and hunted for subsistence and their survival. In 1935 he traveled to Montana with a group of seven in a R8 Chevrolet. I think they got a little side tracked and wound up in Washington and I hear there is a funny story that goes with that, but the notes I was given didn’t have much detail about that little adventure. I can imagine Mr. Davis back in that day at the young age of 19, I am sure he was full of spit and vinegar. He worked on a cattle ranch and made $30.00 a month plus room and board. I think there was a little moonshine running history when he was about 14…a big grin came across his face when it was mentioned.

On 12 Nov 1940, Mr. Homer Davis became Private Davis. He enlisted in the U.S. Army as a military Policeman and his job was to keep the roads open for Patton’s Army. As I read over his discharge papers I noticed his decorations was a Good Conduct medal and a European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with two Bronze stars. Those stars represent two World War II military campaigns...Rhineland and Central Europe.

Homer served under General Patton and described him this way, “He was a “Tough Old Bastard”, you could hear him bellowing from several yards away. He was a very shrewd man.” Homer was a Military Policeman and kept the roads cleared for General Patton’s advancement. He said they worked day and night. Gen. Patton traveled by night when advancing. Continued on page 17.

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Halfway House Bar & Grill Staff

SHOOTING

Where Is Your Focus?

By Nathan Albertson

One summer morning, in the middle of a Midwest plowed field, my father summoned me. With a Model 67 Winchester in his hand and three .22 LR cartridges, he gave a fling to an old Valvoline oil can. He loaded the rifle and handed it to me and pointed toward the oil can about ten yards away. “Put the bead in the notch and squeeze the trigger.” Three shots later, that oil can had been perforated twice and I had completed my first shooting lesson. Mom was less than thrilled with my trophy oil can, but she did permit it to reside on the back porch on top of the wood box for several years.

It is easy to look at the target, such as this bull elk, but one should focus instead on their front sight

In the years that followed, I started hearing a phrase I had not initially heard. “Focus on the front sight, Son.” Recently, in contemplation of writing this piece, I realized that was a conversation I had not yet had with my oldest daughter, who began shooting last year. Why is that one of the last pieces of advice we give our children, it rightfully should be one of the first, should it not? Please, allow me to explain.

When using iron sights, our eyes may only focus on one focal plane at a time. When using standard barrel mounted front and rear sights, this means we have a choice to make when it comes to which object will be in focus, either the front sight, rear sight or the target. If we focus only on the target, we may easily misalign the blurry sights, missing the target altogether. The rear sight sits closer to the eye, but because the front sight sits directly over the muzzle (or closer to it than the rear sight); it is the most accurate in telling you which direction your muzzle will be pointing when the bullet exits the barrel.

As we grow older, we often find other sighting systems easier to use by limiting the number of focal planes we are dealing with. I am a firm believer in teaching a child how to use a good set of aperture sights first, namely because it simplifies the process of iron sights and gives them options outside of a scope. With only two focal planes, teaching them to look through the aperture as a window and placing the front sight on the target makes it easily understood.

Their eye will naturally center the front sight. However, once they do much shooting, they start looking at the target in anticipation to see if they hit it. This is where I have recently erred. I have not yet explained to my daughter that she needs to ignore the target and focus on the front sight all the way through the shot. This will be remedied on our next outing, I assure you.

But, perhaps this is indicative of another thing we must discuss. Several years ago, I attacked the elk season as if I was invading a foreign country. My shop looked like I was planning such an invasion, with maps strewn everywhere and every bit of biological information on elk I could find. For four weeks during the October/November season (I took a week off for a Midwest whitetail hunt), my soul desire was to kill a bull elk! As such, hunting became more like a job, like work every time the alarm clock went off. I would roll out of bed like the Dunkin’ Donuts man, ready to make the donuts. Then it was over. The season ended and I was eating tag soup.

Fortunately, I had remembered to take some photographs during my hunt. I began to realize something as I looked through those photos. I had turned a passion into an obsession; I was focusing on the wrong thing. I was focusing on the critter, which was important to me, but I had forgotten to take time and enjoy the journey! Yes, that season I had hunted hard, but I had failed to enjoy the hunt. I enjoy being outdoors. However, if I enjoy it so much, why did that particular elk season seem like such drudgery? Continued on page 16.

15

SHOOTING CONTINUED

My focus was not where it should have been and I was not enjoying the adventure I so desperately sought. What gain is there if the journey was not enjoyable? Many sportsmen would take little pleasure in shooting a 380 B&C bull elk from the pickup from a forest service road. Yet, we will swell with pride describing how we snuck up on that bedded raghorn, who had no idea we were even in the same county with him when we pulled the trigger. Why? Because of the journey. Why participate in a pastime if we do not enjoy it?

Yes, hunting is tough if done right. And yes, it requires waking very early, hunting on little sleep, hiking long distances in the dark, but we must focus on this one fact, we must enjoy the journey as it unfolds while we work towards the goal we have set. In other words, focus on the hunt, not necessarily the hunted.

This is reminiscent of life. We all have some goal, something we strive for in life, but where is your focus? Is the focus upon the end game, the goal you have set for yourself?

What about your friends and family? When the day comes (and it shall for us all) when we Nathan Albertson find ourselves about to enter the next adventure, death, what do you wish to reflect on from your lifetime? Will you reflect upon the name and title plaque mounted on your door at work, but be unable to remember the last outing you had with your children or grandchildren? How precious will a bank account be to you if you cannot remember the last time you sat with your spouse, holding their hand and enjoying time together?

What is your goal and where is your focus? Think about that for a minute. I recently read Philippians 4:8 and it reminded me of how important and vital the object of our focus truly is to our overall wellbeing. It is imperative we focus on the right and good things in our lives. Maybe things in our lives are not going as we planned. Perhaps we have lost sight of our target? Is your career robbing your family of time with you and memories together? Is that hunt or fishing trip and goal of success stealing away from the accomplishment of a long journey completed? Is your personal goal preventing you from focusing on the truly important and irreplaceable people, moments, and events in your life?

It is at times like these that we must have that razor focus on the proverbial front sight. Remember, the only thing we truly have in our lives is God, our family, and our friends. These must be our focus if we wish to hit the targets we have set in front of ourselves.

Soon, I shall have a new conversation with my daughters when we are on the shooting range and when we discuss life.

After a missed shot at a soda can, I will ask her, “Honey, where was your focus?” Moreover, as she ages and comes home talking about missed opportunities, mistakes, and the other disappointments which sometimes come with life, I will ask her then, “Honey, where is your focus?”

If I succeed in this endeavor, I am certain the day will come when I have become distracted in my life and one of my daughters will ask me in return, “Daddy, what are you focusing on?” I will consider that a mark of success in my life and theirs. Where is your focus, my friend?

Successful people maintain a positive focus in life no matter what is going on around them. They stay focused on their past successes rather than their past failures, and on the next action steps they need to take to get them closer to the fulfillment of their goals rather than all the other distractions that life presents to them. Jack Canfield

Mark Your Calendars The Thompson Falls Trap Club will host its Hot July 50 Bird Shoot on 17 July 2016. Gunner Swanson will receive his I-net Trophy at the shoot.

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YESTERDAYS OUTDOORSMAN CONTINUED Pictured here is Jess Turner (a military buddy of his) and Homer in uniform outside of Monterrey, Ca, aka Fort Ord. As he dug around a little black box of pictures you could tell Mr. Davis was excited and proud of his time in the Army. He is a proud veteran. He recalled another Army buddy of his ,Emil Banovitch that he never could track down. His last know location was around the Whitefish area so if anyone knows the status of Emil be sure to contact Montana Woods N Water so we can inform Mr. Davis.

Homer left the military on 31 October 1945. Homer bartended for several years for the Whitefish VFW and the Troy VFW. He later purchased the Halfway House in 1956. At that time the road (Hwy 56) was a gravel road. Back then he stated “The winters were tough and there were no phones.” He told me a story about a bar fight that broke out between the bar keep and a patron resulting in the death of a local man many years ago. If I recall we wrote a story about that in the December 2015 issue of Montana Woods N Water.

Mr. Davis was an avid outdoorsman chasing, bear, deer, elk all across NW Montana. He loved hunting the Bob Marshall Wilderness area and the Yaak. He may not be able to hunt or shoot anymore but this World War II veteran has killed a many elk, deer and bears with his old rifle. He excitedly told me about the last elk he killed up in the Yaak. He regrets he was never drawn for a moose tag after all these years. Mr. Davis is pictured here with his old Springfield 30-06 topped with a Leupold 2 X 7 Vari X I. Mr. Davis was an avid fisherman as well. He liked going to the Yaak and catching cutthroats. He said, “That was my best place to go but I had to quit going because the Montana Fish & Game put another Grizzly in there and it was a little too dangerous for me.”

As much as I hated getting off the hunting and fishing stories I wanted to know how he felt about the introduction of the wolf into NW Montana. He was not happy about it, “I wish they had never been put here, the deer and elk are gone. They ruined a lot of really good hunting.”

Our conversation varied off from there to the condition of our nation and state. Mr. Davis went on to say, “Times are really different.

1945 was a wonderful year for America. Politicians and lawyers have ruined this country. Montanans will hold their own…through the years we have proven to be pretty stubborn. The big cities are going to catch hell when it all breaks lose.”

I asked him if he had any advice for the next generation. Here is his words of wisdom, “Be an honest person, live an honest life and always do the best you can.”

It gave me great honor to interview Mr. Davis and attend his birthday celebration. I wish I had more room to share some of things he shared with me. Mr. Davis, this country, the state of Montana and Montana Woods N Waters salute you and thank you for your service to this country. Let’s talk again on your 101st birthday!

To see all the pictures I took during the birthday party go to www.montanawoodsnwater.com/events. I recently received a video from Mrs. Benefield that I am going to try to get posted on the web.

There were two other ladies that I would like to recognize from the birthday party...they were so sweet. Go to page 27 to meet Betty Peterson, age 99 of Troy, MT and Donna Tunison also of Troy, MT, age 86. So the next time you think you are to old to go to a party...let these ladies show you how it is done.

I want to also thank the staff of the Halfway House for honoring Mr. Homer T. Davis. You guys made it all happen and on behalf of the family, friends and neighbors we thank you! Great job!

Again, I wish I had more room to post all the pictures but go to our website ww.montanawoodsnwater.com/events and check them out. Feel free to download any of the pictures you want.

Continued on page 27.

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TONY REBO UNLEASHED

What Goes Around Comes Around

By Tony Rebo Each summer I enjoy seeing old friends who travel back to our tiny hidden town in the northwest corner of Montana. Many of these visitors were friends of my kids, and it is always a pleasure to catch up on what is going on in their lives. I was very close with many of the kids who grew up with my kids, and I so enjoy seeing them and their new families. Just recently I was lucky enough to have run into three of my son’s buddies at the local brewery.

We caught up on what everyone has been doing with their lives since they graduated. All three are married and some even have kids. We told stories and laughed about the crazy stuff they used to pull. Finally the conversation turned to fishing and before long a hiking trip was planned to a lake 3.5 miles back into the wilderness. We were going to make just a day trip, fish for a few hours and return back to town that same evening.

I met the boys at the trail head at 7:00 AM. They were very excited to catch some fish and enjoy the view of the beautiful cabinet mountains. The hike in was enjoyable, and we stopped several times so they could capture the beauty of it all on their phone cameras. We reached the lake by early morning and got right to fishing. I put together my fly rod while the boys all drug out spinning rods from their backpacks. I caught and released several nice fish throughout the morning. My three companions were not having that much luck at all; in fact they hadn’t caught a fish between the three. I may have started to rub it in a tiny bit. I asked if they needed my help which slight grunts and groans were the familiar response.

After a great day of me catching fish and the bantering of today’s youth, it was time to head down the trail back to our vehicles. The boys had broken down the trail ahead of me and were soon out of sight. I was puzzled by their haste in leaving. Soon I caught up to the three as they were huddled together in the trail. It seemed like one of the boys, we will just call him traitor #1had slipped on some rocks and took a spill and put his back out. Traitors 2 and 3 were standing over traitor 1 offering comfort.

It seemed we were in a bad spot as traitor 1 was going to need assistance back to the truck. His two comrades volunteered to help him down the trail and back to the truck. I was asked if I could carry his pack out. That wasn’t going to be an issue, I gladly wanted to be part of this rescue mission and so I grabbed up his pack and tied mine to his and threw it on my back.

The boys hurriedly left me again to get their friend back down to the pickup. My pace was somewhat slowed as the pack I was carrying was somewhat heavy. Not like uncomfortable heavy, but like agonizing heavy. I had wondered what traitor 1 could have in this pack that could weigh so much. If only I had stopped and looked in the pack.

The last mile was horrible as I staggered back and forth on the trail. I was afraid to stop as I didn’t think I would be able to get back up.

Finally the truck was in site, and sitting on the tailgate were the three boys. They were sipping on a cold one and laughing out loud. It seemed traitor 1 was now feeling much better and didn’t have any symptoms of a bad back. In fact he did a cart wheel just to mess with me. I threw off the backpack and stepped back only to collapse to the ground. The three idiots who once were my friends were laughing hysterically. I demanded to know what was in the pack. Traitor 1 opened up the pack and as I glanced into it, my mind raced back to 15 years ago. Continued on page 19.

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TONY REBO UNLEASHED CONTINUED 15 years ago on a hot fall evening my son had asked to go camping with several friends down by the river. I gave my permission and soon the boys had packs loaded up and were getting ready to head out. None of the boys were old enough to drive so they were all riding bicycles. Now one of the boys was right next door and all the other boys including my son went over to help him pack. I thought I would take a moment and double check their packs to make sure they hadn’t forgotten anything. I opened my son’s pack and it was full of beer. Oh my word I was ready to hit the roof. I quickly evaluated the other packs and found the same. Hmmm a plan was needed and soon. I so wanted to teach the boys a lesson, so I emptied the packs and filled them all with big rocks. When the boys returned I hung out right next to the packs so as they would be too chicken to take a chance and open a pack in front of me, and my plan worked to perfection.

The boys loaded up the packs onto their back and away they rode on their bikes. I figured I would let them have their fun that night sucking on a rock, all the while I could think about the punishment. Well those boys got down to the river expecting to find a stash of beer that each boy had been stealing over the course of the summer from their fathers. I can only image the look on their face when they opened that first pack and found the rocks. Each pack was opened in haste only to find more rocks, and then it settled in that someone had taken their illegal contraband. Oh and that someone was JR’s dad. I know that the boys were each writing a will or at least a runaway letter to their parents.

Ok now skip ahead 15 years, back to the site of three boys who were laughing and slapping each other on the back howling at the site of my face as I peered into the backpack that I had just carried for 3 miles. I reached in only to pull out rock after rock after rock…………….

Fishing Continued from page 4, A Cane Pole, A Tiling Spade and A Bobber Upon my return, breathing heavily with shovel in hand my Dad in a very agitated tone would say, “Boy one of these days I’m going to have a field full of shovel trees, the way you leave them lying around.” The insinuation was that we (I) left the shovels along with all the other tools just laying all over the place and they would sprout roots and grow. Yeah...a little over exaggerated. I never found the first tool tree in all the years on the farm but I did find some rusted tools...oops.

Leaving the shovel story behind it was off to the creek or pond. As I approached the pond or creek you could smell the fish, you know that earthy musk scent. I could not get that line unwound fast enough and in the water.

With the shiny gold Aberdeen hook in hand, it was decision time...which worm, a big fat one or a skinny wiggly one? Should I use the whole thing or just part of him. How deep should I set my bobber?

Okay the hook was baited and it was time to decide which spot was best from past fishing experiences. Hopefully I would not have to yield my favorite fishing spot to old Mr. No Shoulders (Cottonmouth Snake). With my right hand I raised the tip of the cane pole to the heavens holding the baited hook between my fingers with my left hand and in one fluid motion I pushed the pole away from me at the same time releasing the baited hook as it swung out over the water to its intended destination. Gently and quietly lowering the hook and boober into the water with barely a ripple...finally I was fishing.

It was now a waiting game...oh the constant nagging, maybe I should have put it over there, is it deep enough, I hope I don’t get hung on something, is that a turtle stealing my bait and so on. Fishing with a cane pole required a lot of “on the fly” decisions, constant attention and problem solving skills. Little did I know I would use those skills later in the military.

Because of the short length of line, the action was almost immediate and you did not have to worry about setting a drag like modern reels…the only drag you were worried about was where you were going to drag your fish upon to the bank.

The thrill of watching the bobber so gently bounce in the water as the fish nibbled at the bait or dart across the water as the fish swam sideways or quickly and suddenly disappeared into the deep dark water was one of the finest sights I knew as a boy. What was on the other end was just a bonus. Even a bad day of fishing was still better than digging post holes and stringing fence, painting the barn or the other mile long list of farm chores.

I think I will grab my tiling spade, dig some worms and go bobber fishing this weekend…”JR (my son) where is my tiling spade? I see the apple did not fall far from the tree!

Gotta hook ’em to cook ’em!

19

FLY FISHING

–

by Chuck Stranahan Dealing with other people on a trout stream is different than dealing with them in a traffic jam or a crowded mall. We’re all fishing for the same reasons, and it’s ultimately not about the fish.

I don’t think that flyfishers set out to be rude. Most of the gaffes are unintentional, and with some forethought and simple guidelines, they can be averted.

How best to deal with someone crowding you on the stream? I’ve found that a friendly greeting, along the lines of “Howyadoin’?” gets things started. The exchange that comes from that can be followed with, “Next time, I’m sure someone would appreciate it if…”

We can model the respect we’re asking for, even though it may seem hard when we’re miffed that someone blundered into our water and spoiled our chances at a big trout. People usually respond with an “Oh… I’m sorry – I didn’t realize…”

Grandma Stranahan and Justin fly fishing the E. Fork

With that in mind, and with apologies to Robert Fulghum for borrowing from what he learned in kindergarten, I offer the following:

EVERYTHING I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT STREAM ETIQUETTE I COULD HAVE LEARNED IN KINDERGARTEN BE NICE TO OTHERS. Smiles and friendly greetings to others while you’re fishing are nice, but lots of talking might spoil their quiet time on the river. Ignoring someone or showing your grumpy face like you don’t even want them on the river is not very nice. If you bring a friend or a kid or a dog make sure they are quiet and don’t disturb others.

DON’T CROWD OR PUSH. If someone else got there first, let them fish. Don’t cast even near their water, or disturb them. Walk or row way around them. This is especially true if you are in a boat, and somebody else is wade fishing. Let them have the whole run instead of fishing right above or below them. Go someplace else to fish and you will feel better for it.

TAKE TURNS AND SHARE. Don’t race, especially if you are in a boat. It really helps to talk nicely to other people, see what they want to do, and make a plan together so you won’t bother each other. It’s also true if you’re wading.

Take your turn at boat landings and don’t be pushy. Help others to launch or load if they seem like they would appreciate it. And don’t dawdle when it’s your turn.

AND DON’T FORGET: Please don’t litter. Obey all the rules. Respect private property. Be like the Good Samaritan and help those who need it. If you do your share to make the day nice for everyone, you’ll feel nice, too.

Lord help me to catch a fish so large that even I in the tell of it never need to lie...Author Unknown

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NEW CONTEST Montana Woods N Water is constantly reaching sportsmen across Montana like Cameron Buss of Great Falls, MT. Cameron is in the Montana Air National Guard currently serving on active duty. The pike and rainbow were both taken from the Missouri River.

Thanks Cameron for your service to our country...keep “Living The Dream� and come see us on this side of the Divide some day.

Cameron is originally from Lolo, MT

New Contest Coming Up In August Montana Woods N Water has teamed up with Baldy Mountain Log Furniture and New Life Carving (see their ads on page 6) to give away a queen size handmade log bed with a mountain lion engraved on footboard. We are not sure of the details of the contest just yet so be watching our Facebook for more information and in the August issue.

21

OUTDOOR TOYS

eBikes

by Alan Clarke

Ahh, summer time, a wonderful time of year! BBQ’s and iced tea, fishing, camping and hiking are some favorites.

Scouting hunting spots, setting up game cameras and the smell of summer in the forest top the list. But one past time I often overlook is riding bicycles. I don’t know how I forget it…it’s…er…like riding a bike. Get it? It’s like riding a bike? Ok, well moving on!

Bicycles have come a long way since their humble beginnings in the 19th century. From coaster bikes, large front or rear wheels, front wheel pedals, solid rubber tires, wood frames and steel spokes, a few updates have taken place. Other than still having 2 wheels, they are almost unrecognizable if compared to today’s options. Now you can get bicycles that weigh practically nothing are stronger than steel, and have up to 27 gears for you to pedal with ease in whatever condition you are in.

Whether you are looking for speed, or pedaling up Going to the Sun Road, you can find a gear to get you there. Today we go a step further in the innovation process…electric bikes, or ebikes are an ever evolving concept. We think of this technology as being new, but people have been experimenting with electric bikes as a form of assist or drive almost since the beginning. The earliest known ebikes were being worked on in the 1890’s. However, they pale in comparison to some of today’s offerings.

Fun Fact: As of 2003 there have been more than 1 billion bicycles produced, which is twice the number of automobiles produced.

Polaris offers several eBikes to fit your needs. There are 8 different ones on the Polaris eBike website (polarisebikes.com) and these don’t include the special edition models. Here are some comparisons. Pricing runs between $2,499 and $3,999 for the standard tire and $3,499 to $4,799 for the fat tire models. What’s different about them that make up the price variance you ask?

With the standard tire option, the Rail ($2,499) is a bit more basic in function and style with mechanical disc brakes, and a regular bike seat.

The AAPEX ($2,999) has a Suntour XCR with lockout and adjustable dampening fork, hydraulic disk brakes and a sport seat. When you compare the fat tire options: The SABRE ($3,499) has a solid front fork, and ZOOM MTB handlebars. While the NORDIC ($4,799) has a Rock Shox Bluto fork and Spank Spoon 763 mm x 31.8, 20mm rise handle bar. Probably the most noticeable would be the 4 inch “fat tires” on these bikes as opposed to the more standard looking ones on the RAIL and AAPEX. All of the eBikes weigh in between 58 and 63 pounds and each of them has a list of features that are unique. When Polaris builds these bikes they use brands such as Rock Shox, Kendra, SRAM, MAGURA, SR Suntour, and Tektro, to name a few…so you know you’re getting quality. here are PRO’s and CON’s to this technology. Lets start with the PROs. In my mind a battery falls under both. They are clean as in no fumes, emissions, or hauling gas. The 750 watt Evantage DuoDrive is quiet and powerful! The battery charges relatively quickly (4-6 hours) and last for up to 30 miles, depending on how you ride and is good for 800-1000 cycles. The battery also has Arc Regen technology and Back Pedal Regen so it will recharge the battery if you pedal the bike in a downhill situation, use the brakes, or pedal above 21 to 26 mph (depending on the model). The battery is removable and you can charge it on or off the bike. Polaris eBikes are designed to accept most accessories made for all bicycles-PRO. So you can add your water bottle holder, or air pump. Here at the store we have some with front and rear racks, and a thumb throttle. The racks we have cost $160.00-190.00 each and the throttle is $50.00. Both make a great addition to the bike.

And now let’s look at the CONs. If you need a replacement battery or would like to haul a second one around for longer rides, they cost about $900 a pop. As with all batteries, extreme heat and cold may affect the performance and it is recommended to keep them out of the extremes. One big con that I noticed is that if you run the fat tire bike battery dead it is very hard to pedal…especially if you need to go up hill. That 4” tire puts a bunch of friction-resistance on the ground.

For service and repair, you should go to an authorized Polaris eBike dealer. However, there will be some items and adjustments that any bicycle shop can do. If it gets down to the motor, display, battery, wheels, tires, tubes, or any of the other proprietary parts you will have to go to an eBike dealer. Continued on page 23.

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OUTDOOR TOYS CONTINUED Now for the big elephant in the room! Are these bikes considered motorized vehicles, or bicycles? Can they go behind locked gates, on trails, and anywhere any normal bike can go? Are they allowed in areas designated NO motorized vehicles?

I talked to several people from the United States Forest Service (USFS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) this is their designation. “Ebikes have a motor and are therefore self-propelled and are not covered by the exceptions in the definition. Therefore, e-bikes are motor vehicles and are subject to regulation…” In the briefing paper I received from the USFS it also sights the International Mountain Bicycling Association which says “…the use of a motor whether internal combustion or electric would require changing the classification to a motorized use.” They do however say about the future management of E-Bikes: “E-bikes should be continued to be managed as motor vehicles under the TRM (travel management rule) and reflected on the units MVUM (motor vehicle use maps). Opportunities exist under the regulations of the current TMR using designations on the Forest MVUM, these consist of: Roads open to all vehicles, trails open to all vehicles, trails open to vehicles 50” or less, motorcycles only, special designation*.” The “*…special designation on NFS (national forest service) trails may be considered at the local level when MVUM’s are updated in accordance with the TMR.” The BLM was pretty short and sweet but similar: “ …(BLM) classifies e-bikes as motorized vehicles…” and “ The BLM manages e-bikes similar to the U.S. Forest Service (FS). The FS manages e-bikes as a motor vehicle per their Travel Management Rule.” So eBikes are not to be used behind locked gates, in wilderness areas, and/or anywhere where the designation is NO motorized vehicles.

If you live on or close to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal Reservation, the rules are a little different. When I called CSKT theDarby’s answer Ifish! got was: There are no rules about them on tribal land and they should be ok to use anywhere motorized and non-motorized units can be used…they are essentially considered a bicycle. Bear in mind if you are not a tribal member you will need your tribal land use permit. The only thing I would caution on for this is since there is no actual rule or any current rule about motorized and non-motorized could be interpreted in any way…for or against.

This is an awesome innovation and it just keeps getting better. If you like to ride bicycles you will love riding an eBike. It can make your commute to work easier and faster, your ride in the mountains less strenuous, and it might give you the ability to go farther than you could before. If you haven’t tried one yet stop by Ronan Power Products (Ronan), or Montana Power Products (Libby) and take one for a spin. You won’t be disappointed.

Checkout a new website that promotes tourism, business, recreation and some beautiful pictures by local NW Montana photographers!

www.kootenaicountrymontana.com They are also on Facebook under Kootenai Country Magazine 23

MORE FLY FISHING

The Truth About Barbless

by Chuck Stranahan Don’t be afraid to pinch your barbs. I had that fear a long time ago, and got over it.

Years ago, my favorite stretch of stream had recently gone to single hook, barbless artificial restrictions.

The purpose of the regulation was to protect a native trout population from the damage associated with barbed hooks. Fish that had been released too often showed deformed and disfigured jaws. Entire jaw mandibles were often missing.

That short 2 ½ mile stretch of stream was contained by a rough fish barrier at the outflow end and a powerhouse and dam at the upper end. It offered a controlled environment for fishery biology studies.

What the biologists saw there was that fish released from barbed hooks often endured secondary stress that killed them; stress resulting from being mishandled while the angler attempted to wrestle a barbed fly loose. Mortality, to say nothing of disfigurement, was a documented problem.

I could see the sense of the new regulations, but was uneasy. It was hard enough to hook a trout on that challenging stretch of stream, let alone bring it to the net before release. I was always careful to keep the trout in water and revive it thoroughly; why wasn’t that enough?

So I fished barbless, but cursed the regulations that caused me to often hook a trout only to lose it on the first jump. At least it seemed that way to me.

The sharp hook About that time an expert river regular introduced me to a tool that changed my angling life: the Diamond Deb nail file. “Use this on all your flies, Chuck. These hooks simply aren’t sharp enough.”

In those days, chemically sharpened hooks hadn’t been developed. I tried new hooks on my thumbnail, as he suggested, and they seemed to barely scratch. A few strokes with the Diamond Deb, and they grabbed – wanted to penetrate if I pulled just a wee bit too hard.

I could see his point. Today there are diamond dust hook hones that do a much better job and are easier to carry than that cosmetic counter model, and I use a hone regularly.

I check my fly for sharpness and use the hone if needed every time I tie on a fly, (sometimes even the best hooks are not sharp enough) every time I snag something, (that ultra-sharp point is easy to damage) and every time I hook a fish.

The flattened barb Another regular on that stream was the legendary Doug Swisher, who preceded me in becoming a resident of the Bitterroot Valley. Doug told me of a battery of tests he conducted using dental plastics of various hardness to replicate a trout’s jaw. His tests showed conclusively that a barbless hook, one without the upswept area of the barb in the way, penetrated clear to the bend with less pressure than a barbed hook.

That gave me more confidence as I started fishing regularly with de-barbed hooks, flattening the barb of every fly I tied on. I also made sure my hook was sharp.

I was surprised at the number of fish that I held on a jump, or on slack line, or despite my own inept handling – fish I would expect to lose before I started fishing sharp and barbless.

My experience led me to believe what I know now: You won’t lose all your fish because of barbless hooks. In fact, like me, you’ll most likely land a greater percentage of those you hook.

Check the hook When I tie on a new fly, I do these things: First, I make sure that my knot is secure. I tie it carefully and make sure it is properly pulled into shape. The knot should look right when I’m finished, or it gets cut off and re-tied. Second, I flatten the barb with a flat-jawed hemostat.

Third, I check the hook to be sure it’s sharp – even on a fresh, unfished fly – and if necessary, I sharpen it.

Those latter two things – a sharp hook and a flattened barb – will combine to increase your solid hookup ratio and hold more trout from hookup to net. Since going to this system I’ve lost more fish to breakoffs or hook failure than I have to the mysterious “Aww – he got off” that I used to endure.

In other words, if I hook them well I tend to land them. And I hook them best on sharp, barbless hooks. You can do the same.

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For Virtual Tour Click Here

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OUTDOOR TECH

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YESTERDAYS OUTDOORSMAN CONTINUED

Top Row Pictures: Homer’s birthday cake. Homer ready to stab/cut the cake. Homer tickling his vocal cords. Homer filling his plate. Don’t we all hope we can be that active and full of life at 100.

Pictured Left: Betty Peterson, age 99 of Troy, MT and Donna Tunison also of Troy, MT, age 86.

You’re looking good ladies. Between Homer and these two ladies there is over 285 years of wisdom.

To see more pictures go to www.montanawoodsnwater.com/events

Click Here For Virtual Tour

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MOUNTAIN MEMORIES

Another Montana Mom Mountain Memory

By Carol Cady With fishing season upon us….we Montanan’s have so many fishing spots to choose from. I know that I won’t be disappointed wherever we decide to go. On a recent beautiful Sunday morning my daughter Amy calls and gives me instructions as to where to meet her, I head out for McGregor Lake excited to see Amy and the anticipation of catching some fish. We load the boat with the necessities (food, drink, sunscreen, poles, fishing gear) and launch. This being the first trip of the season with the boat, we hold our breath to see if it would start. On the third try it started right up. Amy hollers at me, ”Hold on Mom…I’m going to blow out the lines, its’ been sitting all winter!” This is where I remind her once again (as we rip across the Lake) that she has only one mother!

Then Amy, myself and George Strait (nothin like country music) circle around and decide which “favorite” spot on the lake we will try first. Then, we both tried to snatch up the one reliable lure that we always use. I won out! Moms do have some “pull”! This is where teaching your kids to respect their elders comes in handy. We throw out the lines and proceed to fish. And of course, it wasn’t long and wham, I had one on. Then….chaos breaks out. Big macs fight, and I knew this guy was on the bigger side and I wanted to get it in the boat at any cost. I’m hollering at Amy, ”Turn off the boat, get the net, get over the side further”. Amy hollars back, “Mom…I AM over the side, I’m practically in the water.” Well, not to worry WE landed it! How exciting, so after many pictures and A LOT of hi-fives we settle down and proceed to fish again soaking up some mother daughter time on the water and making some more mountain memories.

Another great day of fishing! And as Raf, the publisher says….”Livin The Montana Dream”!!!! Oh yeah, the most important part, the Mac weighed 5 pounds.

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PAST EVENTS

Montana History Comes Alive Nancy S. Mehaffie, Regent Kuilix Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution

History came alive a few weeks ago in Thompson Falls when, the local chapter of The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) of North Western Montana hosted Ronald E. Glasgow who is a historical re-enactor. Mr. Glasgow has played WW Cooke, General Custer’s Lieutenant, in numerous movies and media events. Not just a re-enactor, Ron has had many parallels with his famous character role, including Army service in the modern mechanized Cavalry and a six generation military family history extending back to the Revolutionary War. Mr. Glasgow provided several hours of historical presentation and discussion of the Battle of the Little Bighorn and WW Cooke’s role in that battle. Mr. Glasgow’s presentation included displays of period Cavalry clothing, horse accoutrements and tales of a trooper’s life in the 1870s. Mr. Glasgow and his Egyptian/Arabian horse, “Murphy”, then left for the annual, “Little Bighorn Battle” re-enactment at the National Park Services, Little Bighorn Battlefield Monument in Eastern Montana.

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NEXT GENERATION/LOCAL CELEBRITIES

Congratulations to the...

Bull Lake Pike Assault Fishing Derby Winners Sponsored by Halfway House, Troy, MT

1st Place: Brad Seamans 13lb. 1 oz.

Prize: Over $800.00

2nd Place: Ron Soete 12lb. 1 oz.

Prize: Over $600.00

Acelyn Walker Hill picks up her Kahr CT 45 from Casey of the Mangy Moose in Plains, MT. Acelyn won the handgun for submitting the winning photo in the Montana Woods N Water Beards and Bears Photo Contest. Grandpa Billy Hill took care of all the paperwork and Uncle Chase Walker was there to check out the win. Acelyn even got Grandpa Hill to throw in a box of ammo so she could practice. Congrats Acelyn on the big win. A thank you goes out to the Mangy Moose for doing the paperwork and getting us a deal on the firearm..

3rd Place: Jeff Lorenzen 9lb. 7oz.

Who is that pink hooded fisher lady?

Kristin Maxwell of Plains, MT with a nice Prize: Over $250.00 Baldy Mountain trout. Did you show Ben McCann, Zach McNew Mike how it was done? give it a good shot for the money! 96 pike fisherman competed for the money!

Congrats to the winners!

Jerry Berry of Libby, MT sent me these two pictures of his grandson Blake. Blake is six years old and is the son of Shawn and Stephanie (Jerry’s Daughter) Michalkiewiez. Blake hooked and landed the 6+ pound rainbow using a small fly this spring and put the hurt on a grouse last fall.

Way to go Blake...looks like you are going to be a chip off of Grandpa Jerry. I think your shirt tells the facts as they are. “My Stats Do The Talkin” is right on the money.

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THE ROOT CELLAR

Purple Gems

By Raf Viniard With a Montana summer comes all kinds of berries. Huckleberries, chokeberries, elderberries, buffalo berries, blueberries, serviceberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries just to name a few get the conversation going. Each of these can be frozen, jellied, jammed, juiced, canned, made into syrups or frozen for future use and/or baking and are very good for your health. Some of these beautiful fruits are even used in the production of adult beverages such as wine and brandy. My Kentucky hillbilly brothers and sisters have even been known to make something a little stronger with these wild fruits that will tickle your innards.

After reading the Feature article on page 7 it would be wise to start learning how to locate, identify, collect, prepare and use any of these berries that may grow in your area for various uses. A quick Google of any of these berries and you will have more information than you have time to read. Learn to use the resources the man upstairs has provided us. Just like morel mushrooms, they are out there for the picking.

For this article we will focus on the little purple Huckleberry. Huckleberries are pretty abundant across NW Montana. Like anything else, there are secret little patches that folks had rather give up their first born than tell you where to pick a bucket full of these purple gems.

Huckleberries grow in the wild and man has tried to transplant them for commercial use with very little success. Huckleberries can fetch as much as $40-$50.00 a gallon, so you will be competing with professional pickers just like mushroom hunters.

Getting ready for a berry picking adventure is a low cost endeavor and will do you good to get out into the mountain fresh air. Grab some one gallon buckets, a side arm, some bottled water and gas for the truck. No the sidearm is not to fight off other pickers but just in case you stumble on that one bear that has decided he is not in the mood to share his/her berry patch.

I like to use a gallon bucket with a metal wire handle and pass a rope through the handle and throw the rope over my neck and let the bucket hang down in front of me so I don’t have to pack it and I can easily drop the berries right in the bucket in front of me. This also allows you to have to two hands free to pick or one to pick and the other to shove berries into the mouth. When the bucket gets full, head back to the truck and place them in a cool dark part of the vehicle….grab another bucket and repeat.

These hardy little purple berries can normally be located at elevations above 3000 feet. I have found them on north, south, east and west slopes which means they can be hiding just about anywhere in the mountains. I have found Photo by: Robin K Ha’o the berries on the south slopes to ripen first and usually a little bigger but that can all change with seasonal weather patterns. Too dry and the berries will be very small. Too wet and they may have already ripened and fallen off.

They may be in the shade, partial shade or full sun. This berry finding thing is starting to sound a lot like elk hunting doesn’t it?

They are where they are. Continued on page 34.

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THE ROOT CELLAR CONTINUED The berries can be found on small 2-4 foot bushes, if there is enough of them you will be able to smell them from your truck seat. They can range in size from the size of a very small pea to a large blueberry. Depending on the weather conditions the season can come and go before you know it…so don’t delay. When you start seeing huckleberries for sale on Facebook or on local bulletin boards you better get to picking.

Between the bears, birds and other pickers they go pretty fast. Sometimes the berries ripen from the lowest elevation to the highest so you may have to move up the mountain a little higher each week.

For a good patch where you can pick a bucket full you might have to go a little further than the edge of the road. Watch for purple bear scat and you are in the money…but you are also in the bears dining room so be “Beary” careful. You may have to roll a few leaves back to find them but once you find that motherlode…the picking is on. My problem is I have to sample about every other handful so it takes me longer to pick a gallon than most. There are tools sold on the Internet to aid in your picking and make it faster than picking each berry by hand.

However, huckleberries as best picked by hand to keep from damaging the bushes, plus a berry picking tool will catch a lot of unripen berries, leaves and twigs. Purple fingers may follow but the stained fingers are well worth it. Just keep your hand in your pocket until is wears or rubs off…you don’t want to tilt your hand that you have been in a good huckleberry patch.

Huckleberry picking is a tradition here in NW Montana. Entire families and trucks loaded with friends will head to the mountains in search of the holy grail of berries. A few years ago Steve and his wife Patty Pardee of Plains, MT introduced Pam and I to this wonderful mountain adventure and I have loved it ever since. Steve has since passed onto the other side but he is never forgotten each time I sit in a huckleberry patch munching on a handful of Huckleberries. The first handful is always in memory of Steve.

So now you are back home with your very hard earned bucket of berries, what next? Pour them into a large bowl and cover them with water and stir very gently with your hand. The leaves and stems will float to the top. Just skim the debris off the top of the water. Do this process about 2-3 times (changing water each time) and you should have some pretty clean berries. Next, pour the water off and remove any green/ unripe berries or bad berries. Any berries that are not completely purple don’t worry they will taste absolutely great this winter when mixed with plenty of ripe ones.

If you don’t have time to go right into canning or preserving them simply place them on a cookie sheet (single layer) and place them in your freezer for about 20 mins. It doesn’t matter if they are still wet, they won’t stick together. Remove from freezer and place in a gallon freezer bag and refreeze for later use.

In the first paragraph of this article we told you the many ways huckleberries and other berries can be used. Since it is summer the first choice is a thick Huckleberry milk shake but another favorite of mine is Lemon Huckleberry Sour Cream Pound Cake (see recipe on page 35). Throw a little Huckleberry ice cream over this and you are as close to heaven as you will get on this earth.

In all seriousness be aware that bears love Huckleberries too and you may encounter a bear when scouting or picking berries. Simply back off and let them have the patch. Just be aware of your surroundings when your head is down picking any kind of berries.

If parking along the side of a road please be courteous and leave room for others and emergency vehicles. Use your manners, refer to Chuck Stranahan’s Fly Fishing article on page 20, titled Stream Etiquette – Kindergarten Style. The same rules apply to berry picking. Do not trespass on private property without permission. Have fun and get out there and find you some Montana purple gems, start “Living The Dream” Montana style.

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THE ROOT CELLAR CONTINUED Lemon Huckleberry Sour Cream Pound Cake With Lemon Glaze 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp salt 3/4 cup butter, room temperature (plus some to butter the pan) 1/4 cup sour cream, room temperature 1 cup sugar 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract 1 Tbsp lemon juice Zest of 1 large lemon 5 eggs, room temperature, whisked together 1 1/2 cups Huckleberries 3 Tbsp lemon juice 2 cups powdered sugar Preheat oven to 325 F. Butter a 5×9 inch loaf pan. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter, so ur cream, and sugar on high until light and fluffy – at least 5-6 minutes. Add vanilla, lemon juice and zest. Mix until incorporated being sure to clean sides of bowl with every mixing. While mixing on medium, add eggs in two batches. Mix on low to add the flour mixture in thre e batches – stirring only to incorporate. Gently mix in the Huckleberries.

Pour into the prepared pan, and bake for 65 minutes – or until the cake tester comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, cover with a foil tent. Let cool 10 minutes in the pan before running a butter knife around the edges to loosen. Let cool complete ly on a cooling rake before poking holes all over the top of the cake, and pouring the combined lemon juice and powdered sugar over t he cake.

Enjoy a little taste of heaven. Huckleberries on scale photo by Michael Glen Freeman

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12th Annual Cabinet Ridge Riders—Ride Again On June 11 approximately 180 quad and ATV riders rallied in Trout Creek, MT to raise money for some great causes. According to Dave Anderson the President of the organization, three $1000.00 scholarships were given out to students from Thompson Falls, Plains and Noxon high schools from money raised from these types of events. The money raised also goes to help local Senior Centers, local families in need and local sports teams and individuals.

After the long dusty ride, riders gathered back at the Lakeside Motel & Resort to grab a bite, wash down the dust and see who won the top poker hand. Raffles and a auction capped the evening.

To see some of the pictures taken during the banquet go to www.montanawoodsnwater.com/events. I bet there is someone you recognize.

Pictured left: Chuck Maul of Frenchtown, MT won the $300.00 first place prize.

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