Mba spring 2017 issue

Montana Bowhunters Association PO Box 23611 Billings, MT 59104 Return service requested

Non-Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit # 120 Bozeman, MT 59718

C ONVENTION ANNUAL

350! – PAGE 14 2016 MBA Convention Preview – PAGE 16 Carp Safari 2017 – PAGE 26 VOL. 44 #3 Spring 2017

MBA

Regional Representatives Region 1

Al Kelly

PO Box 219, Libby, MT 59923 ........................................... 406-293-2900 alman@frontiernet.net 351 7th Ave East N., Columbia Falls, MT 59912 ............... 406-250-9806 michaelshepard7@gmail.com

Neil Maier

16200 Roman Creek Rd Frenchtown, MT 59834 .............. 406-546-6013 nam56@yahoo.com

Don Helmbrecht 511 Hudson Lane Victor, MT 59875 .................................. 406-381-6661 donhelmbrecht@yahoo.com

Region 3

80 Jansma Lane Manhattan, MT 59741............................. 406-570-7997 rocknrollbowhunter3@yahoo.com

Stephen LePage

2574 Divide Rd. Lewistown, MT ...................................... 406-535-5636 mbaregion4@yahoo.com

Roger Licht

PO Box 189 Stanford MT 59479 ... 406-566-2693 — Cell 406-366-1580 Licht@Roger@yahoo.com

John Grimstad

2031 Poly Drive Billings, MT 59102 ................................. 406-252-3620 twingrim@bresnan.net

Region 6

David Moon

Region 7

Bob Morgan

Region 8

4455 Hoover Lane • Stevensville, MT 59870 mbaregion2@gmail.com • 406-777-2408 1ST VICE PRESIDENT

Steve Schindler 134 Sawney Drive • Glasgow, MT 59203 sas@nemont.net • 406-228-9024 2ND VICE PRESIDENT 60 Hruska Ln • Lewistown, MT 59457 markschwo@gmail.com • 406-350-0173

560 Clovehitch Road Belgrade, MT 59714 ........................ 406-539-0602 btreasurestate@aol.com

Region 5

Marlon Clapham

Mark Schwomeyer

Brian Koelzer Barrett Haugan

Region 4

MBA offi cers PRESIDENT

Mike Shephard

Region 2

www.mtba.org

97 Aberdeen, Glasgow, MT 59230 ..................................... 406-942-0659

TREASURER

Jenn Schneider PO Box 23611 • Billings, MT 59104 mtba@mtba.org • 406-697-7668 SECRETARY Vacant PAST PRESIDENT

Joelle Selk 6963 York Road • Helena, MT 59602 jselkmt@gmail.com • 406-422-6798

djmoon9876@gmail.com P.O. Box 1995 Colstrip, MT 59323 ..................................... 406-749-0706 robertredface@gmail.com

Jerry Davis

MAGAZINE CO-EDITORS

Teri and Al Kelly PO Box 219 • Libby, MT 59923 teray1979@yahoo.com

725 Middlemas Road, Helena, MT 59602.......................... 406-475-2226 pipelinejerry@gmail.com

AT LARGE DIRECTORS EVEN YEARS

Roger Peffer Seth Rogers Tim Roberts

Lyle Hebel www.pixelelk.com

2517 9th Ave So., Great Falls, MT 59405 – regorp77@msn.com .........................................406-452-0911 1425 Prickley Pear, Billings, MT 59105 – srogers@lamar.com ............................................406-670-5435 2410 Chouteau St, Fort Benton, MT 59442 – timr59442@gmail.com .................................406-220-2051

Liberty Brown Branding Iron Marketing MAGAZINE DESIGN

ODD YEARS

Paul Martin Ray Gross

WEB DESIGNER

110 Sage Lane, Kalispell, MT 59901 - paulhmartin99@gmail.com .......................... 406-261-4456 355 Antelope Drive Dillon, MT 59725 – raygross0144@gmail.com ........................ 406-660-1019

EDITORIAL COMMENTS The MBA Magazine is a quarterly publication of the MBA and is intended to inform, entertain and educate its members on happenings within the organization and to bowhunting in general.

PUBLICATION DATES AND DEADLINES

FALL ISSUE, DEADLINE, July 15 WINTER ISSUE, DEADLINE, October 15 SPRING ISSUE, DEADLINE, January 15 SUMMER ISSUE, DEADLINE, April 15

Stories, photos, or cartoons should be sent to Al or Teri Kelly at PO Box 23611, Billings, MT 59104 or email teray1979@yahoo.com. All materials are the opinion of the author unless otherwise stated, and are subject to being edited. All photos will be placed in the MBA Photo Ablum and can be viewed at the annual conventions. Any questions as to policies of MBA please write the President.

MEMBERSHIP INQURIES

Please send new memberships or renewal memberships to MBA Tresurer, PO Box 23611, Billings, MT 59104 or call 406-697-7668, register online at www.mtba.org or ask a member.

K Design Marketing, Inc. 1613 South Ave. W. • Missoula, MT 59801 kim@kdesignmarketing.com 406-273-6193

Spring 2017

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EDITOR’S NOTE

o I was thinking about what I would write about this quarter and of course its convention time which is always awesome fun. And we’re always working on increasing membership because it takes a big voice to represent the bowhunters or our state, but I’ve written about these things many times. As I was contemplating what to write for my article for this issue, I was listening to the news. President of the United States Donald Trump had taken his oath of office and the news was not so much about the actual inauguration but rather, it was filled with the various violent protests that were happening before, during and after the inauguration and that were ongoing even as I wrote this evening.

Maybe your candidate won or maybe your candidate lost, but this is where we are at; it is what it is, no matter which candidate won, change will happen and life will go on. I don’t understand the mentality of people who because they are unhappy, angry or disagree with someone or something, they feel that they have the right to burn, break, and otherwise destroy whatever they can get their hands on. It’s appalling, what has happened to having respect for life and property, not just your own but for those around us. Some poor mom and pop business gets destroyed just because they happen to do business on the street that protesters decided to march down that day causing chaos and destruction as they went, which results in that mom and pop’s life and livelihood being ruined. It’s a sad state of affairs that people in our country think it’s okay to act that way and it makes me even more thankful that in Montana we are a somewhat removed from the insanity of the masses.

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Maybe they all just need to pick up a bow and go chill in the woods, or grab a fishing pole and go sit by the river. It truly does drive home how lucky we are to live where we do and be able to enjoy the outdoor pursuits that we have available to us. It also made me think about people in the country who hate hunters simply because we hunt. They are out there and they are vocal. You can usually find them on Facebook or other social media sites, blasting and cursing hunters. I recently read an article about Eva Shockey and her Facebook page. She was pregnant and hunting and had harvested animals and had posted photos of those harvests. I say; good for her, she’s active and doing something she loves and will most likely share the love of the outdoors and outdoor pursuits with her child. Non-hunters went to her Facebook page to wish horrible things to happen to her and her unborn child, all just because she had humanly harvested an animal that she or others would eat. One person even said that she should just buy her meat at the store where animals are “humanly killed for consumption”. Really!!! This brings me back around to the fact that we are a small minority in the big picture of things.

www.pronghornbows.com 307-234-1824 evenings 2491 West 42nd Street Casper, WY 82604

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Teri & Al Kelly People don’t have to have any understanding of why we hunt or how important hunting is to game management, they just have their opinions and want to impose those opinion upon us who do understand the whys and how’s of hunting and game management. With that in mind I think it’s important to remember that actions speak louder than words. Support groups, clubs and people who advocate for humane and ethical hunting and game management. And as a hunter, model what it is to be respectful both in the field and off, show young people and others that you value and respect the animals you hunt, the land you hunt on and the people you hunt with.

See you in Fairmont!

Teri Kelly

TABLE OF CONTENTS VOL. 44 #3 Spring 2017

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ANNUAL

C ON V ENTION PREVIEW

PAGE

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On the Cover

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VOL. 44 #3

EDITOR’S NOTE

Teri Kelly PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Marlon Clahman TREASURER’S MESSAGE

Spring 2017

Jenn Schneider

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1ST VICE RESIDENT’S MESSAGE

SteveSchindler Mark Schwomeyer

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Scott Koelzer photo of Micheal Casey

2016 CONVENTION PREVIEW DRAFT MBA ELECTION BALLOT CARP SAFARI ENTRY FORM BUSINESS & CLUB MEMBERS FWP COMMISIONER CONTACTS

2ND VICE RESIDENT’S MESSAGE

2016 MBA Co 35 nvention Previ 0! – PAGE 14 Carp Safari ew – PAGE 16 2017 – PAGE 26

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MBA MEMBERSHIP FORM MEMBER GALLERY

REGIONAL REPORTS MBA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT WILDLIFE CROSSINGS 350!

Chris Blaskowski

Spring 2017

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OFFICER’S REPORTS

MBA Committees

President’s

Legislative:

Message

Jerry Davis, Chair Steve Schindler Marlon Clapham • Ray Gross

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ere I set putting this message together, it’s 16 below outside turquoise skies three or four inches of fresh sparkling snow, and the late bowhunting season is winding down.

Great day to be alive.

Tentatives:

Ray Gross, Chair Paul Martin • Mark Schwomeyer Steve Schindler • Marlon Clapham

Joelle and I went to the December Commission meeting with the Matrix and they accepted it with a few minor thoughts on the scoring part. They felt Marlon Claphman that it needed to be a little more objective then just a strict yes or no. They felt they needed to be able to ask questions for clarity on any given piece of equipment. So with their passing of the Joelle Selk Matrix, the Commissioners pushed for the Lighted Nock to move to the Public Comment Period. They felt that there would be a chance that if they got a favorable response than they could act on it and move toward getting it in the regulations before 2017 hunting season. This still maybe a little premature, as there is still a lot of work to be done. I have been in contact with the Department on how the regulations will be worded so there will be no mistake what will be legal or not. Lighted Nocks Only, no other electrical devices. There were even questions on it being an artificial light to aid in the taking of big game animals. The Legal Department didn’t see any problems there. When I spoke to the Department about the comments that were still coming in they already received nearly 1400 responses and there was still ten days to go. They commented to me that the Department was very impressed how the Bowhunting community will respond to issues that affects their well-being. Now if we could just get that 1400 hundred to join the MBA. We will get the final word at the February Commissioners meeting.

January 8th, Jerry and I attended the Sportsman Coalition Reception in Helena, it was a meet and greet of the legislators and representatives from across the state. I was asked many times about the X-Bow and how we felt. I gave them our side and feelings on the subject. Explained to them that the X-Bow was already legal during the general season and restrictive weapons seasons and that there were months where they can use them and we are just trying to salvage our Bowhunting season and Archery only areas.

I also let them know about our efforts with the PTMAE to help the physically impaired be able to shoot conventional archery equipment. Everyone I spoke with was against the X-Bow and felt that they already had enough of a season. That was encouraging to say the least. For these folks to come up and express their thought on the subject out of the blue I felt that the DVD that TBM sent out had a huge impact on the way they felt. It was a well done DVD and I think it made a difference. There was also a lot of discussion on Public Lands and access to those lands, the importance of financing Block Management and Heritage Montana. I think the word is out on how important these matters are to the general public. The Governor, Steve Bullock showed up and was answering questions. We hear that it is very rare for him to show up to these kinds of functions. We had a great turn out and felt that it was a great success and money well spent.

Next on the agenda will be the Febuary Commissioners meeting, our local region meetings and then it’s off to the Convention at Fairmont Hot Springs. I hope everyone can make it, the convention was such a good time last year there.

We are already thinking about the Carp Shoot, warmer days picking up sheds, hunting gophers and walking off a little cabin fever build up around the middle. Spring bear hunting over in Idaho should take care of that.

Keep-em Sharp and Shoot-em straight

Marlon Clapham

Financial:

Jerry Davis, Chair Jenn Schneider • Seth Rogers Ray Gross • Neil Maier

Steve Schindler Landowner/Sportsman: Mark Schwomeyer, Chair David Moon Neil Maier • Bob Morgan

Nominations:

Steve Schindler, Chair Al Kelly • Paul Martin

Awards:

Roger Peffer, Chair Al Kelly • Steve Schindler Marlon Clapham

Membership:

Chair, vacant Joelle Selk, Membership assistant Jenn Schneider Seth Rogers • Ray Gross

Convention 2017:

Brian Koelzer, Chair Joelle Selk, Co-Chair Jenn Schneider Sean Dunn • Barrett Haugan

Magazine:

Al & Teri Kelly, Co-Chairs Steve Schindler Roger Peffer • Joelle Selk Brian Koelzer • Jerry Davis

Website:

Lyle Hebel, Webmaster Jenn Schneider • Liberty Brown

Treasurer’s Message

Carp Shoot: Joelle Selk, Chair

This cold weather is certainly making me excited for the warm waters at Fairmont. We had such a tremendous turnout last year and it was such a financial success, I just can’t wait to do it again! It will be nice to return to the same place and not have to work out the usual kinks of a new place. Hoping to see all you familiar people and some new ones too. We have lots of great donations this year and lots of work to do in legislature, so don’t forget your checkbooks to support the organization that supports the sport you love.

Jenn Schneider

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Bow-Ed:

Al Kelly, Chair Marlon Clapham • Brian Koelzer Bob Morgan • Mark Schwomeyer David Moon • Ray Gross

Steve Schindler

OFFICER REPORTS

The system sort of in place before was just known as the “line in the sand” approach. No electronics on bow or arrow period, regardless of its impact on our success rates. I once knew a guy who had a small digital watch attached to the belly of his limb; he used it of course to see the time without any extra movement. It did not occur to him or me that it was illegal, (electronics attached to bow, thing) I’m thinking it did not have any benefits to his success in taking a deer or elk, other than maybe knowing when prime time was actually there according to the clock.

First Vice

President’s

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Report

he Montana Bowhunters Association along with the Traditional Bowhunters of Montana worked together to create a system to help the Montana FWP Commission make serious judgements on what equipment should be deemed legal for use in Montana’s Bow season. The system as we’ve come to know it as the “Matrix”, really is only a series of set questions to be asked of any new proposed equipment somebody wants to use during our bowseasons. These questions were created by bowhunters with lots of experience both on the traditional side and compound side. Why ask the questions you say, well it is important that we keep first and foremost in our minds the history of our bowseasons and why we have bowseasons in the first place. The answer to that question is simple; we have bowseasons because it allows more recreational hunting without any bigtime impact on the resource. Read that last sentence again. If we were to have equipment legalized that would give the Bowhunter an unfair advantage and in turn increase the harvest of Elk, and the emphasis is placed on elk, do you think the FWP Commission would sit idly by and let our Elk population plunge. Well I hope not, but to avoid this scenario in the first place wouldn’t it be nice if we had a series of questions that had been thought out by bowhunters and did address the problem before it happens.

Second Vice President’s Report

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t’s time to pay attention to legislation. Be aware of how special Montana is and the opportunities we have and don’t take them for granted. Chances are someone or many had to fight for them. We’ve had some decent weather here in Central Montana for chasing lions and a few guys I know harvested them with archery equipment. Now if we could just get some fresh snow each weekend until April 14th followed by green grass for spring bear and turkey season I’ll be happy. Until then it is banquet, convention, and indoor archery league time. We have a near-record amount of Youth archers in Lewistown this year and we’ve also moved our banquet to the Trade Center due to are attendance records. Bowhunters are on the rise in Central Montana. Archer and I are excited for Fairmont I have a feeling I’m going to be making several trips up the water slide!

See you all in Fairmont

Mark Schwomeyer

The FWP commission did approve of our matrix but did leave out an important part of the equation, the scoring system. I think we should work to get that part reinstated. With the scoring system in place it leaves out any future commissioner voting to allow some piece of equipment because in his mind it won’t be that big of a deal. I would feel better about his decision if he were a Bowhunter and had some practical experience in knowing what actually would have an impact or give an unfair advantage. But of all the commissioners I have seen come and go, there have only been a couple who bowhunted. So chances are very high the decision will be made by somebody who really doesn’t know what he needs to know, and we are the ones who will suffer the consequences. So if you get a chance voice your opinion it takes time to get things done and the sooner we start, the sooner we will improve things.

On another note, the FWP will be going thru some management changes within the first few months of the New Year. We will see three new commissioners and Jeff Hagener is stepping down as Director. By the time you are reading this, these positions will probably be filled. I hope we have a sportsmen friendly commission and Director. I feel we have done pretty well in the recent past but as all things, it could be better. I hope we have a commission and a Director who will take the bull by the horns and do something about our outdated elk management plan; do something about the harboring issues we have that are screwing up our objective numbers. I know we can’t force the harboring landowners to allow hunting, but we could create new hunting districts that just encompass the particular ranch that is causing the problems, Issue a number of cow tags for that new district and if they remain over objective, well the landowner can either live with the problem or fix it.

My biggest concern is hammering the lands surrounding the harbored ranches and how can we help the cooperative landowners who allow hunting during the regular seasons, but have to feed the harbored ranches elk all winter.

Steve Schindler

Secretary Needed Do you have a desire to volunteer your talents and time to do your part supporting the MBA in its mission in “UNITING THE STATE’S BOWHUNTING SPORTSMEN TO WORK TOWARDS A COMMON GOAL OF PRESERVING AND PROMOTING THE SPORT OF BOWHUNTING IN MONTANA”. The MBA is in desperate need of a secretary. Following is the job description for the position of Secretary: The secretary and or treasurer shall in good faith: (1) create and maintain one or more books for the minutes of the proceedings of the members and of the Board of Directors; (2) provide that all notices be served in accordance with the by-laws or as required by law; (3) be custodian of the corporate records; (4) when requested or required, authenticate any records of the corporation; and (5) in general perform all duties incident to the office of secretary and or treasurer and any other duties that the president or the Board may assign to the secretary and or treasurer. (Amended from secretary or treasurer to secretary and or treasurer by board vote 6/1/07).

The secretary and or treasurer is responsible for ensuring that a copy of the MBA’s articles of incorporation remains on file at the Secretary of State’s Office in Helena and that an Annual Report is filed each year to keep the corporation in good standing.

If you are interested or have questions please contact Marlon Clapham

Spring 2017

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REGIONAL REPORTS

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AL KELLY MIKE SHEPHARD

Al Kelly

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s I sit down to once again make some scribbles for the newsletter and it is one long cold damn winter already, I am longing for some daylight after work. Being outdoors is what makes my world go around. I, like many of you, prefer feet on the ground to butt in the chair. Those of us who have to work for a living, waste way too much of our day light hours chasing the almighty dollar, but that’s the tradeoff; you can’t play if you don’t pay. So with each passing day we get a little more daylight to our day and some more time to spend outside.

What will you do with your extra time? There are so many great and fun things to do here in Montana it is easy to take those opportunities for granted.

Maybe take a few minutes and think about all the great organizations and people out there working to make sure you can enjoy your passions. Things don’t just happen. People make things happen. Find something you can get behind and do your part, whatever that may be.

That brings me to the organization I love to support, the Montana Bowhunters Association. It is a great bunch of people working for the benefit of bowhunting. We are always looking to add to the membership and appreciate all levels pf participation. So thank you to all who are currently members. Let’s see if we can grow our numbers this year. Our local archery club is a big supporter of the Montana Bowhunters Association and once again this spring we are planning a free 3-D shoot to show our appreciation for members. We have been doing this for the last 3 years and we cook some hotdogs on the bar b que and everyone has a good time.

Thanks to those who participated in the past and I am looking forward to seeing some more folks show up this year.

See you at the convention

Al Kelly

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WWW.MTBA.ORG

aving received several comments to the negative about my NOT supporting the change, and now permitting some of our current Instructors to teach the Bow Ed Class after 1 August, here is my response. Getting into my scrapbook of stuff, I have the various blurbs from the weekly Hungry Horse News from the early 80’s.

Then instructors John Voelker, Bob Hurd, and myself did teach 2 times a year, even when it was NOT mandatory. Generally in April, and August, and yes, the dates are Classroom sessions on 16 and 18 August, and a field session on Saturday 21 August. From our experiences with the rapid growth we saw then, somewhat to what is seen today, we as a group decided that it needed to be changed. Time was needed for some of these people to get their literal poop in a group. That is why we decided a long time ago to cut it off at 1 August. I still agree with this, and am adamant that they need to decide to take the class when it is offered, not change the whole thing to accommodate those who need to get their priorities straight when it comes to our sport.

Bowhunting has enough problems without these “instant” adders, in my opinion.

At 67, I have my opinions too, all based on my experiences and my partner in traveling the state, the late Richard Parker, did too. It is no different than all the Bow ED license plates I see. If there are so many of these so called “bowhunters” running that plate, our season should be swamped with hunters, yet I went another year and only saw 2 other guys, road hunting, with their bows and in camo the 3rd week of our season. We did this cutoff as a selfpolicing move, not to penalize anyone, but as a stand that we only want prepared, ethical and responsible bowhunters out there. Period.

More and more questions are coming forth regarding the reliance in technology. May 2016 of Petersen’s Hunting mag had an editorial

by Mike Schobey, about his leaving his GPS at camp, chasing an elk and then getting lost. His quote...” While modern technology is a fantastic thing, it can go down, be lost or in the moments of excitement, simply left behind. BUT what is never left behind are knowledge, determination, and basic woodsmanship skills. ” What was good to me...his opening statement. “ I am worried about the next generation of hunters. They seem overly fascinated with technology while neglecting basic woodsmanship skills.” As we go forward, even at my age, I strive to use my 50 plus years of hunting knowledge and push that envelope. My opening morning black bear was taken at 20 FEET, after an almost 1 hour stalk. Many would have taken that shot at 50, 60 or even more so yards. What fun is that...and I had a blast harvesting my bear. When it stood up, I knew the jig was up, and it was over quickly. We are relying too much on technology whether it is in basic woods skills, or hunting skills.

Time to challenge yourself more, but again I am getting old and have enjoyed this sport since 1961.

Will it last in its present form? Only bowhunters and their decisions will tell.

Michael Shepard

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Don Helmbrecht

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aving attended my first board meeting in Helena this December past, I would like to take this opportunity to pass on my thoughts to our general membership readers and let you know the behind the scenes work being done on our behalf.

Being the rookie in the room I was literally speechless throughout the meeting. The officers and board members are so well informed, prepared and dedicated to the bowhunting community here

in Montana to insure your rights and opportunities are protected for all of us and all the future bowhunters coming up. They are very passionate in their desire and devotion to the issues to examine each one and make sound decisions for the benefit of all. Having said that let me challenge your passion and devotion. Please renew your membership commitment whether it is for one year or three years. In addition take the time to sign up at least one new member. Trust me; there are tens of thousands of prospective members out there that are benefitting from the hard work done by the MBA, whether or not they are aware of it. The more members the louder our collective voice when it comes to protecting our bowhunting rights but also lending support to similar issues that could ultimately affect us.

I-177 was a perfect example in the last voting cycle.

Montanan trappers could have been dealt a serious if not fatal blow had that passed eliminating or curtailing a necessary outdoor activity and essential conservation tool. Make no mistake, without membership our bowhunting activities could be in the crosshairs of the anti’s down the pike. The mission statement on the cover of this magazine says it all. Your interests are the MBA’s priority. My bow season was cut short due to orthoscopic knee surgery on my left knee December 10th. I did manage to take a buck on the morning of December 3rd that must have known of my dilemma and offered me a 10 yard shot that I just couldn’t pass up. Onward now to

REGIONAL REPORTS

the convention at Fairmont Hot Springs where I hope to meet as many members as possible and hopefully come home with some of the many auction and raffles items that will be there for all to take a chance on. Good luck to all. See you there.

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ello all. I hope you had a very good holiday season and reunited with family.

The legislative session has started and we are already facing major challenges. We will need your voice to help convince our state legislators to do the right thing. A bill to transfer public lands to the state is in congress. Zinke has voted for it. So much for his ads in pre-election stating he would not do that. Our state legislators have also put forth a bill to take control of public lands. We all in trouble unless everyone starts telling our legislators this is wrong, because if these do go through we will no longer have public lands to hunt.

Preparations are under way for the Convention at Fairmont Hotsprings on April 1st. Make your reservations for that date. We have a 90 block of rooms reserved. Lots of great items have been pledged and we are still working on more.

Remember this year if you want to put in for Bowhunting permits year you must have a Bowhunter Education card and purchase a Bow and Arrow stamp before applying for those permits. Classes are already scheduled for many areas to get as many through before the March 15th deadline. Be sure to let your friends know.

Public comment is being taken for the lighted knock through January and will be considered for the February meeting of the FWP Commissioners.

I hope you made your comments on this whether you agree or disagree with it.

There are also a lot of changes that is happening with the Hunter Ed and Bowhunter Ed programs with the new Policies and Procedures manual.

There are some good things and some not so good. There have been a lot of emails going back and forth over some of the issues. The biggest change is the student can no longer bring their own bow to the field course. This is generating a lot of response. Some instructors are considering resigning and other are saying they will no longer do a shooting portion in the field course for various reasons. I hope no one will quit over this.

Take some time and think about this. Remember change is the only constant, we do not have to like it and we can voice our opinions to modify them but resigning solves very little.

Up in HD 290 the land owners are having trouble with Whitetail deer in their hay fields.

They are asking for rifle hunts to thin them out.

But 290 is an archery only area with limited hunting access. A group of 290 hunters and the landowners with the problem have set a meeting to discuss the problem and try to get extra tags and longer seasons. But no gun hunts. We already have the long elk shoulder hunt (six months long) and we think that they could put Whitetail does in that hunt with bows only. The meeting was set for the 18th of January which unfortunately was not enough time to get it to press in this newsletter.

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BRIAN KOELZER BARRETT HAUGAN

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nother year has come and gone with many new and exciting memories made while pursuing a multitude of nature’s bounty. Our freezers are full and taxidermist friends busy, but as temps turn frigid it’s time to direct attention towards this springs annual convention.

As I look back at the many conventions I’ve attended from childhood to present I find it interesting that even though my perception has changed with time I still get that same giddy feeling as the weekend draws nearer.

From my youth the memories are kaleidoscopic, but vivid of wandering around and seeing Schafer, Gene and Barry, M.R. James, G. Fred Asbell, Monty Browning, and many others who were larger than life to me. I didn’t quite understand though when Gene and Barry both told me they were my real dad..?..!..?.Some things are better left alone I think.

ope everyone is wintering really well. I have been at some great Trade Shows these last few weeks. It has been really nice seeing all the good outdoor products that we have access to; mainly, products that keep us alive in harsh conditions. I was also fortunate enough to attend the Outdoor Channel/ Sportsman Channel Awards. This was the best one I have attended in the last Seven years. The main message many people where promoting was Conservation and Ethics. It is so important that we lead the charge with these ideas. The better stewards of the land and wildlife we are, the less we will be tread on by the antis. Also the more control we will have of our desperately cherished resources. Every time we step into the field we need to keep those things in mind. There are going to me many obstacles we will facing with the new administration as well. Many changes are most likely going to happen. We will defiantly need to pay attention the next four years. Stay safe out there the rest of winter and I look forward to seeing everyone at the banquet in April.

Barrett Haugan

Just yesterday i received a phone call from close friend and MBA founder Jerry Karsky (member #0002). We haven’t chatted in a while and it was good to catch up and share some laughs and stories. We started to make some loose plans in regards to attending TBM, MBA and P&Y in the coming months and during the course of our conversation we discussed the past, present, and future of bowhunting. He told me about meeting Fred Bear and hearing him speak on several occasions and how now-days we are very short on people who garner that kind of respect and admiration. He also told me that now he considers himself one of the “old guys” and these events mean more because every year there seems to be a few less of the old guard who paved the way for guys like me to enjoy the seasons and opportunities they fought for and we more or less take for granted at times. Think about that and keep the weekend of April 1 open.

I’m looking forward to catching up with a lot of you at Fairmont!!!

Keep’em sharp, don’t eat the yellow snow, and pick a spot!

Brian Koelzer

Brian Koelzer

Neil Maier Dan Moore

Spring 2017

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n writing this the weather has warmed up in central MT. We have had over 30 days of really cold weather. While sitting in my warm fish house the last few weekends, I can’t help but wonder how all the deer and elk are doing, pretty tough conditions out there for the elk in some of the areas still being hunted. Time will tell if these shoulder seasons are going to work. I hope everybody is making plans for the 2017 season and getting their permits in. Should be another busy year at my place.

God bless our troops

Roger Licht

Hello all, t is almost time to start thinking about the banquet. I, for one, am excited to see you all in Fairmont. After chasing lions this winter, I am ready for a warm soak in the hot springs. There is only one club that is defending and enhancing your bowhunting privileges, so please invite your friends and family to join us at the banquet. The venue alone is worth the trip.

I have had the most rewarding season I can remember, not for my successes, but that of my son. Due to the Apprentice Hunter Program, he was able to bowhunt during the rifle seasons. I always laugh at a bowhunter wearing orange, but it suited him and his determination and resolve were rewarded with several successes.

In addition to my son having a successful season, my wife was the one who actually brought home the venison. I was initially feeling a bit humiliated, but then I read that there is finally a lady, out of Fairabanks, AK who has just completed the Super Slam. The ladies are certainly showing that this is not a male dominated sport. There is no “glass ceiling” here.

I know this is the time of year where we have limited bowhunting opportunities, but it also gives us time to make new arrows, sharpen broad heads, and perhaps take in a hunt elsewhere.

Best Regards,

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Stephen LePage

406-535-5636 Mbaregion4@yahoo.com

BOWHUNTER

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JOHN GRIMSTAD

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ow that winter has set in and my hunting season is over I wonder what next year will bring? I was asked the other day if I only use a bow to hunt? And the answer is no, I bow hunt, rifle hunt and bird hunt. This question made me wonder what that mattered to the person who asked me? They told me they only bowhunt but do it year around. I thought that was great, but for me I like diversity. For example, I love bowhunting the breaks, but also enjoy hiking the mountains listening for a bugle deep up a draw. I am an avid walleye fisherman but also love to fly fish. And that is why I love Montana; it affords a ton of outdoor opportunities. As I thought of all the things we Montanans have, I reflect on the controversy lighted nocks has caused and how it has really divided the bowhunters. This is very disappointing because now more than ever we bowhunters need to be united and fighting to stop the surge to sell public land. This is far more important for us to unite than some device that may or may not have any impact on our hunting.

The legislation is just starting up as I write this and so far it looks like it is going to be a battle. The attack on the public is shocking, from public land to public wildlife and everything in between. Please stay informed and involved letting your elected officials know how you feel on all the bills being voted on, both the bad ones and the good ones.

Recently region 5 had a meeting; the last meeting was during the banquet when it was in

Billings. About 15 people showed up and not all were members but all were bowhunters. We discussed lighted nocks, membership, banquet, etc.

It was good to get together with other bow hunters and discuss bowhunting. One thing that was brought up was having a fun shoot. And everyone I have talked to is in favor of this. The MBA is a bowhunting organization, but we all love to shoot our bows. So why not get together and let’s shoot and have some fun. I am trying to get something set up for this summer but really need some help.

The biggest obstacle I see is getting targets or using targets. But I will keep working on it and hopefully with some help we can make something happen.

The banquet is in Fairmont again this year and I am pretty excited to attend, as I missed last year.

What a great place to have a get together, there is fun things for everyone in the family. I hope to see you there!

Now it is time to get ready for spring bear and turkey hunting.

Keep in touch and God bless.

John Grimstad REGION 6

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ith the seasons getting extended with shoulder hunts and damage hunts it seems that bow season comes around a lot faster. I know I could not believe it was already here. I had better learn from last year and get the arrows ready while I have these cold winter months to work on them.

Duck and Geese are still in so a person could still be bowhunting for them. It would be hard to shoot a bow in all the heavy clothes needed to stay warm. Everything seems to make lots of noise when it is this cold out. I remember going on the late Big Sky hunts and camping out in the cold. If you were the first in you were cutting knee or waist deep snow. And once you left the trail it was all deep snow. It was always fun putting on frozen clothes in the morning.

David Moon

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JERRY DAVIS

The Evolution of Stone Hunting big cats with points of stone, wearing snowshoes during the sixties with my dad.

Chasing lion track on snowmobiles, carrying our bows and arrows. Growing up in the seventies, we used what we had.

Hunting cougars with flint-knapped points, pickup trucks and CB’s during the eighties, that’s not bad.

Tracking pumas now with stone on my arrows.

In my side-by-side with its own tracks! Wow. With my sons and my dad.

Time-tested that’s the story of stone. See how it stands alone. And they keep going and going.

Hunting with these points and feeling glad.

With the evolution of stone, and still using these points today I can send you some pictures of me and my dad and All the hunts we’ve had

Bob Morgan

Bob Morgan

Old points found in Idaho.

Jerry Davis

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efore I begin I must acknowledge Teri Kelly who works so hard in getting all of the stories and other info organized and sent to the publisher of our Magazine. I also apologize to her for my tardiness in submitting my column. People like me make her job more difficult.

As of this writing the New Year has arrived and with it a new Legislative Session. During this session I expect our public lands and our bowhunting traditions may be under attack again.

Hopefully you took action on any MBA Alerts and Facebook posts requesting your participation in the Legislative process.

In an effort to stave off an onslaught of Legislative bills which would allow crossbows and hi-tech archery equipment to be used during the Archery-Only Season, MBA presented a process to the FWP Commission that will allow the Commission to judge equipment before it is considered to be allowed during the Archery-Only Season. We hope this greatly reduces the number of bills we have seen in the past which have tried to make crossbows and hi-tech archery equipment legal for the Archery-Only Season through the Legislative process instead of the FWP Commission Tentatives process.

With this process it appears that the highly contentious “lighted nock” will be allowed (we should know by the time you read this) but other equipment that would degrade the sport and reduce the skill level required for Bowhunting would most likely not be considered.

Now on to Habitat Montana. As of this writing, bills supporting legislation to restore the spending authority for Habitat Montana, a program that is vital to Montana sportswomen and sportsmen, will be a main focus amongst most if not all hunting and fishing organizations throughout Montana. I will quote from a letter sent out by the Sporting Coalition, a coalition which represents several

Montana hunting and fishing organizations on Common Ground issues. MBA is represented on this coalition.

“Habitat Montana is funded by the sale of hunting and fishing licenses and equipment. By law, it is earmarked solely for conservation efforts. No general fund dollars or tax dollars are dedicated to the program. Montana sportsmen and conservation organizations partner with the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks (MTFWP) to protect wildlife habitat, provide public access for outdoor recreation and maintain traditional agricultural uses of the land. The program uses revenue collected from sportsmen and sportswomen to purchase conservation easements from willing landowners to ensure conservation of natural and agricultural values, allow heirs to be able to afford to buy agricultural properties, pay off debt and help families with estate planning. Program funds are also used to acquire strategic properties that ensure the public a place to recreate and protect wildlife habitat, as well as access other public lands.

The 2015 Montana Legislature removed MTFWP authority to spend nearly $11 million in accrued Habitat Montana funds. An estimated $25 million will be available for legislative appropriation to the program in 2017. These are sportsmen’s dollars, not tax dollars, and cannot be used for any purpose other than agricultural conservation, habitat improvement and recreational access. “ Hopefully bill(s) will be passed that will restore the spending authority for Habitat Montana thereby ensuring a continued public hunting tradition in Montana. If so it will be because you all took an active role, thanks.

The MBA Convention is just around the corner, March 31st through April 2nd at Fairmont Hot Springs. We had a great convention last year and I suspect we will have another great one this year. Instead of delegating the task to an individual Region this year we as a Board are working on it cooperatively. Should be a load of fun with a lot of opportunities to enhance your equipment stash.

That is about all I have for this quarter.

See Ya at Fairmont.

Jerry Davis

Spring 2017

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REGIONAL REPORTS

DirectorsAt Large

A

s I write this winter has arrived and we have been getting numerous cold fronts down out of Canada this winter. Now it’s time to break out the skis and snowshoes and explore some new ski country. I hope everyone enjoyed the hunting season as much as I did. I explored numerous new areas for deer and elk and am now looking forward to maybe finding some spring turkey opportunities. Turkeys are few and far between in the Great Falls area. I have yet to notch a turkey tag and I think a tail fan and beard would go great in my hunting den with some other hunting trophies. If anyone is willing to share a good spot for birds just bip me an e-mail! I hope to roast some wild turkey in this new year!

As of the first of the year it is time to renew your MBA membership. The new legislative session is here and we want to keep you and your bowhunting friends apprised of any new “bat-crap crazy” bills that might be popping up. Members can receive e-mail updates so you can contact your elected officials regarding bills that may impact bowhunting. I cannot stress enough how important it is that you renew your membership. Please send in your membership dues asap and encourage your friends to join as well. If you bowhunt in MT, you benefit from the efforts of the Montana Bowhunters Association. MBA will work diligently to protect bowhunting opportunity. But we cannot do it without your help.

The weekend of April 1st is the MBA convention at Fairmont Hotsprings.

This was a great venue last year and it is so nice to be able to go soak in the hot springs between the MBA events and activities. So bring your significant others to this so important event. “Hey Honey! We can go soak in the springs all weekend and attend the MBA Banquet at the same time!” Fun can be had by all!

And- it is not too late to make a donation to the convention. If you have attended a previous convention you know that anything can be donated. It doesn’t have to be just archery equipment. Items for kids and women are always appreciated. Furniture, clothing, toys, jewelry, a set of tires, artwork, taxidermy services, or how about a set of trout flies for the MO? I’m sure all of us can come up with a donation to make this event even better! Just contact one of the Directors if you have an item to donate. We need to plan ahead so it is important we know what donations are coming to the event. This is our major fund raiser of the year and MBA needs your support. Thank you for your donations to this important event. Looking forward to seeing you there!

Roger Peffer

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ne of the hardest things I found that I have to do is to write something for a newsletter. Writing one for the MBA has been one of the hardest, simply because of the situation this organization has gotten into with the lighted nock. It’s not just my opinion, but the thoughts and opinions of others, that the MBA has lost something in all of this. Being a traditional bowhunter, I often find it difficult to muster support for an organization that sometimes seems too willing to start our great opportunity down the path of just another “archery” season, and away from the journey of bowhunting.

Onto the banquet, this year we will make an attempt at compiling a list of vendors, with contact information. This will help us in getting the word out for future banquets, and will also be key in making sure that the vendors, and their donations get thanked properly after the banquet. Those that are interested in having a vendor space at the banquet please email me, at timr59442@gmail.com, or if you would prefer, you can call, 406-220-2051.

Thanks,

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Montana

BOWHUNTER

WWW.MTBA.ORG

Paul Martin

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he art and the need for killing does. It’s taken a long time for me to accept that we need to take out some of the doe population. I can reflect back to the dark ages, when I was rifle hunting in the Fort Benton area for some of those grain fed mule does that you could cut with a fork, and how happy the rancher was to see us. He hoped that we would kill a truck load of the SOBS. I guess that was the good ole days. But today we are talking about whitetail does, in some areas the numbers are up, usually on irrigated land where elk and deer numbers become less tolerable to some of the landowners causing them to want hunters to take out more of the does.

We are talking late season hunting from a tree stand or a ground blind during the rut, and if you haven’t killed one early in archery season, the rut is one of my favorite times of year, and of course we are trying to fill our A tags with some kind of buck. But why not take a doe if the populations are on the high side? Here are a few things to think about if you are hunting the rut. The most obvious doe to take out is the yearling; she’s about medium sized with no fawn. The last thing I want to do is kill that doe with one or two fawns, especially if one or both are buck fawns. I guess I’m trying to improve the buck to doe ratio. Another thing that some hunters don’t understand about whitetail deer is their breeding habits. Unlike mule deer or elk that have and breed a harem of does or cows, the whitetail is more of a one on one and it takes a very aggressive and mature buck to breed maybe three does during the rut.

Therefore it is a good reason to get the buck to doe ratio closer to one to one. If your area has a good age structure in your bucks you should have a good and efficient rut. OK, enough of that, back to killing some does. During the rut most of the mature does leave their fawns in a familiar location, and doesn’t reunite with them until she has been bred. So what do I do during the rut? I don’t shoot a mature doe even though she’s by herself, because she probably has a fawn or two elsewhere. The hardest one to pick out is the doe that is no longer productive, this is fairly rare, because by the time a doe can’t forage for herself some predator kills them and game over. Several years ago while still hunting I killed a big old doe right in her bed, and after examining her the teeth were so wore down I would bet that was going to be her last winter. This next one may throw you for a loop, but let’s remember it’s late season and the fawns are six months old now, yup, I said fawns, and if the doe numbers are so high taking out one of these tasty smaller deer isn’t so bad.

The trick is shooting the doe fawn and not the buck fawn. Hunting from your tree stand they can be observed from above, to see those bumps on their head or maybe how they urinate and stature in general to decide if it is a buck or doe. If in doubt, let them walk.

Of the few I’ve shot from the stand I have yet to make a mistake. I have many friends who are perfectly fine with taking a doe and many of the deer rich states back East require that you take a doe. Another topic we need to consider is keeping better track of our deer herds, by having an annual evaluation from FWP, the land owners and the hunters, to adjust how many does really need to be harvested. The winter of 2017 is already looking like there may be some kind of winter kill. We shouldn’t wait until 2018 to make the change. Remember our deer need to make it to the end of March before their chances of survival goes up. OK, it’s time to wrap it up, so I will reflect on my report photo. It was a slam dunk shot from my stand; I heard my trophy doe crash in the brush behind me. I gave her a few minutes before climbing down to pick up the blood trail. With a fresh skiff of snow on the ground, it was one of those really cool blood trails spraying blood all over out of both sides, which we dream about, and something very spiritual about taking this animals life quickly and quietly for you and your family to utilize.

She made it about seventy five yards from my stand. As I approached her still body, she had picked an unusual place to die, and somewhat ironic for her to spray her blood on the skull. My guess was the cow elk bones and skull was about two years old, and had met her fate maybe by an ill placed arrow or for this location maybe a bad rifle shot from nearby private land during the late season cow hunt. Never the less, my late season doe is not going to waste.

Hope everyone has a good time at the convention.

Paul Martin

Ray Gross

REGIONAL REPORT

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ope you’ve all had Happy Holidays MBA members! Hoping you got all the archery and hunting equipment you asked Santa for and that the 2017 Bow Season will be the best you ever had.

This winter started out as a cold and snowy one. It makes it a tough winter for the wildlife struggling to survive. I’m hoping that the seasons like either sex, all season long, on public and private lands and shoulder seasons have not overly stressed the wildlife, leaving them too vulnerable to survive the winter.

Debby Barrett’s House Bill 42 and Senate Bill 249 made it law for FWP to get elk, deer and antelope populations down too, or below objective. Because of these laws wildlife is not being managed, they are being eliminated. With the harboring of wildlife during hunting season on private lands, for the benefit of a very few, and wildlife not being accessible to the public for harvest, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is forced to have drastic seasons like either sex, all season long, on public and private lands and shoulder seasons.

Sportsmen should demand better wildlife management, not just getting populations down to objective. We should rally and pressure our legislators to overturn House Bill 42 and Senate Bill 249.

Ray Gross

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ard to believe how fast 2016 went, but looking back it sure was fun.

I got to watch good friend Wes Nipper’s daughter Haley shoot her first bull elk, on her first elk hunt! Hope some of that luck rubbed off for next year.

Now it’s time to start getting ready for the convention, and hope it will be as fun and successful as last years. Seeing some of the generous donations that are rolling in, it sure looks promising. See you there!

Seth Rogers

Spring 2017

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MBA MEMBER SPOT LIGHT

MBA Member Spotlight Brad Zink Where do you live?

Billings

What do you do for a living?

7th Grade Geography Teacher

When did you start bowhunting?

I started shooting a bow when I was 4 or 5 years old. I had an old Bear bow and I think I had four old arrows I got from my brother. I would hunt small game on the outskirts of Dillon.

Tell me about your first bowkill?

The first bow kill that I remember well is the day I shot a very large antelope. It was a day my friend Kelly Kimzey and I were just going to go for a short morning hunt. It just happens to be the day I was supposed to propose to my wife. I shot the best buck of my bow hunting career to date. I did not get to propose to her that weekend, but I did the next, and she accepted! The funny thing about the whole day was I got both: the buck and the girl.

Why do you support the MBA? The MBA has and always will stand up for bow hunters. The MBA works hard to inform the public and lawmakers about the benefits of bow hunting. We, as the MBA, have to keep the legislature in check.

Describe you dream hunt?

My dream hunt has always been to hunt a grizzly bear with my bow.

How many bows do you own?

I think I have 6 bows; 2 compounds, 2 long bows, and 2 recurves. I also custom-made a long bow for each of my boys.

What one piece of advice would you like to pass onto a new bow hunter?

Patience! Bow hunters have to have patience. Bow hunting is not easy; that’s why many people don’t do it. You have to work for what you get.

Who is your bow hunting mentor or idol?

I enjoyed learning about Fred Bear and Fred Asbel.

Tell me about your favorite bow hunting memory?

I guess the best memory for me is having my father Jack Zink at bow hunting camp. My father has come to bow hunting camp with me for twenty years, even though he does not bow hunt.

One memory I have is that my father was hunting with me and he had to go back to town.

The next morning, I killed a nice antelope buck and when he returned I had it at camp.

Who are your favorite bow hunting partners?

My two boys, John and Colter, are my favorite bow hunting partners. We have made many great memories in the last couple of years. They have not been successful yet, but they have put in great effort and have had a lot of fun.

Do you have any secret bow hunting tricks to share?

I really don’t have any archery tricks. I just think you have to be passionate about what you do. I believe it takes practice to become efficient with bow and arrow. Practice a lot and have fun!

If you have a member you would like to be featured in “Member Spotlight”, please contact Steve LePage at mbaregion4@yahoo.com.

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WWW.MTBA.ORG

Wildlife Crossings S

o in Montana, there are basically two types of drivers… those that have hit wildlife and those that are going to. Wildlife routinely cross highway systems all over the state and auto wildlife interactions are costly and deadly to both humans and wildlife populations. In 2007 the cost of wildlife/vehicle collisions was analyzed and estimated at over $6000 per incident for deer and $17,000 and $30,000 for elk and moose respectively. Obviously the cost of these collisions has only gone up over the last 10 years. The stretch of US Highway 93 between Evaro and Polson has been designed to limit these sorts of collisions and initial outlay of costs to develop overpasses and underpasses for wildlife has not been cheap. But research shows these animal bypasses actually work. Having a strong understanding of wildlife migration routes and passage corridors is instrumental in where to place the passageways and give designers insights as to what type of passageway would be best work for the wildlife in the area. These passageways have helped to protect people, property and our wildlife resources. The cost of putting these structures above and below our highways is well worth the cost.

Spring 2017

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MEMBER STORY

350!

by Chris Blaskowski

The 2016 convention

was going just like they always do and each year I spend a bunch of money in the bow raffles trying to win a new bow. The Toelkes, Shaefer, Silvertips, Yellowstones, RER, Bearpaws and Trailsends buckets have all had my share of tickets thrown in them over the years. I watched with anticipation as the bowyers head to the front of the room and call out the numbers of the lucky raffle ticketholders.

When Chester Floyd, owner of RER bows, headed to the front I paid special attention. I had spent about half the day shooting his bows and had one I wanted in mind. As his hand reached in the bucket to draw a ticket I yelled out 350, my ticket number for the night. He just smiled and shook his head as he read the ticket. 350 it was! I think everyone thought it was rigged as I headed up to get my prize. Oh well just jealous I suppose. Haha Chester said I could have a bow made or keep the one he had there. As I really prefer longbows I knew I wanted one of his 3 piece lxbows. I headed to Bozeman in early spring and got a bow ordered, a 62” lxaround 52#s. The next few months were spent anxiously waiting as is always the case when one orders a custom bow. The bow showed up in early September and I immediately took to the range to see how she would shoot. Within minutes I knew I’d have no trouble punching a few tags with this beauty.

Three nights after getting her, I grabbed 350, the name I gave the new bow, and headed to the whitetail stand. Just before dark a mature doe approached and I drew back. When she came through my shooting lane I shot and watched the doe drop dead in her tracks. I kinda like this new bow I thought. The next night was windy and I headed to a different tree to try my luck. Once again a big lone doe walked by. This time a lung shot put the doe down in quick order. Two deer in two nights,

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BOWHUNTER

WWW.MTBA.ORG

this bow might be special! The next night I tried yet another tree but the results were the same. A big doe came strolling by. She stopped ten yards away and I could only see her chest through the fork of the next tree over. With all the confidence in the world, I drew back and made a beautiful double lunger! Three deer in three days, this bow does have serious mojo!

In late October I had a friend camo dip 350.

This gave her a whole new look and I was sure hoping the mojo wasn’t covered up. It would be a couple weeks before I got to see. By the time mid-November rolled around I had just two tags left, one either sex or one antlerless tag. On an allday sit I had a group of does come by after about 6 hours. Even though I was hoping to fill my buck tag I decided to shoot and filled my last doe tag.

Thanksgiving morning I got up early and headed out to get in a half day hunt before dinner

called. I headed to a nearby farm with my climber strapped on my back and old 350 in my left hand. I picked out a tree in the dark and headed up. By the time I was done breaking branches and getting all set shooting light was upon me. I gave out a few grunts and nocked an arrow and turned around to sit down. A mature4x4 was heading straight at me 75 yards out. I got in position and he closed to within 15 yards and stopped. As soon as he started walking again I drew back and shot. A beautiful double lung shot and he was down in 40 yards. The last of my deer tags was filled and I climbed down to check out my buck! What a great way to end the season.

This year, if you’re looking for that magical bow, stock up on a bunch of bow raffle tickets at the convention, then pick the buckets of your choice and drop them in. If you’re lucky like me, you might just win your new favorite bow. Old 350!!

BLAST FROM THE PAST

This blast from the past comes from the Winter 2000 issue. Mark Baker was the current president. There were some very big issues going on through the fall. It was the year of I-143 and the FWP was to continue testing for CWD, and more Mad Cow disease popping up.

I-143 was the vote to shut down the private elk game farms. Keeping our Elk wild and free was the theme and Sportsmen’s groups across the state were pulling together for a common cause. The MBA was the major contributor in financing the efforts to get I-143 passed. We were accused of being a group of environmental and animal rights extremists destroying another Montana industry.

The FWP was testing for the CWD for the third consecutive year in 2000. They had tested 1030 elk and deer and none of the animals had tested positive for the disease. FWP was going to move their efforts to the Philipsburg area. But north of us in Yorkton Saskatchewan, nearly 600 elk were to be destroyed on a local ranch because of the CWD outbreak there.

On the Mad Cow front, there were two families that were infected by the disease with both families suffering deaths.

The membership was getting set for the MBA convention in Bozeman and Monty Browning was to be their guest speaker.

Lastly the FWP Commission asked the MBA to help draft guidelines to help slow the archery technology and set equipment restrictions. (That was when the “Line In The Sand” was drawn for the first time.)

It looks like history is repeating itself a bit. I hope we have learned a few lessons along the way.

Blast from the Past

Spring 2017

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MBA CONVENTION

ANNUAL

C ONV ENTION March 31-April 2, 2017

The 2017 MBA Convention will be held at Fairmont Hot Springs.

Book your room, today!

The convention will be held in Anaconda at the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, 1500 Fairmont Rd Anaconda, MT 59711 $124 + tax for single or double occupancy 800.332.3272 www.fairmontmontana.com 16

Montana

BOWHUNTER

WWW.MTBA.ORG

EVENT INFORMATION

39TH ANNUAL

MONTANA BOWHUNTERS ASSOCIATION CONVENTION PRE REGISTER (Before March 15th) Get registered before March 15th save a bunch of cash on a great banquet! $40/person $75/couple

2017 Convention Fairmont Hot Springs Resort March 31-April 2, 2017

$25/child

GENERAL REGISTRATION (After March 15th)

$50/person $85/couple $35/child Send check or Money order to: PO Box 23611 Billings MT. 59104.

Banquet Menu Carved Baron of Beef and Chicken Marsala with fresh vegetables, tossed salad, garlic mashed potatoes, angel hair pasta, fruit salad and dessert.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS LODGING INFO

FRIDAY 9 AM – 4 PM

MBA Board Meeting

NOON – 8:30 PM

Registration Open

9 AM – NOON

Manufacturer’s Row Setup

NOON – 8:30 PM

Manufacturer’s Row Open

4 PM – 8:30 PM

Silent Auction

8 PM

Social Hour Negins

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort 1500 Fairmont Rd Anaconda, MT 800.332.3272 $124 + tax for single or double occupancy

SATURDAY 8 AM-10 AM

General Membership Meeting

9 AM – 5 PM

Manufacturers Row

9 AM – 4 PM

Silent Auction

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

SEMINAR – Wildlife Tooth Aging – Matson’s Laboratory

11:45 AM – 12:45 PM

Kids Shoot

1 PM – 2 PM

SEMINAR – Recruiting and Mentoring Women – Facilitators Brittany Brothers from ZeroPointZero,

www.fairmontmontana.com Click on the Book Now button then the Groups tab Group ID: 18794 Password: 37001964

Joelle Selk, and Amy LePage 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM

SEMINAR – Fostering Mule Deer Populations through Habitat - Dean Waltee, FWP Biologist and Barrett Haugan #PROJECTMULEDEER

3:30 PM - 5:30PM

Pre-Banquet Social Musical entertainment by Brian Koelzer and Dan Violett

5:30 PM

Banquet Begins

6:30 PM

Dinner Served

9 PM-10 PM

Checkout

SUNDAY 8 AM – 9:30 AM

Bowhunter Education Meeting / Breakfast

9 AM – NOON

Manufacturer’s Row open

NOON

Convention Wrap

TRAVEL INFO Located midway between Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park, Fairmont is easy to get to located only three miles off of Interstate 90, Exit 211, eight miles from the I-90 and I-15 interchange. Fairmont’s 500 acres are cradled by the Continental Divide. The Resort sits in a valley at the base of the Pintler Wilderness area, which covers 150,000 acres virtually untouched by man.

Spring 2017

17

MBA CONVENTION

BOWHUNTER OF THE YEAR

The MBA standardized the process for nominating candidates for the Bowhunter of the Year, Richard Conklin, and Special Achievement Awards.

Below you will find the form we will use. Please use this form by cutting it out of the newsletter. You may also attach a separate sheet; just be sure to include all the items that are asked for on the form. The nominations are due to Roger Peffer, regorp77@ msn.com or call 406-452-0911 by March 15, 2017 with all the information.

The deadline is important because the nominations will be sent to the members of the awards committee so that they have time before the convention to cast their votes. We then need to get names on the awards. The awards are important to the people receiving them. This form will ensure that the integrity of the award is upheld for future recipients. I am sure many of you know members who are worthy of one or more of the four prestigious awards. However, these people will never receive the awards unless someone makes the effort to nominate them.

This award is given annually at the MBA banquet. It is confined to members who have been in good standing with the MBA during the 12 month period prior to the issuance of the award. The Bowhunter of the Year Award is basically an award recognizing “success” and may, but does not have to be, in the form of a kill. This “success” may be the taking of one outstanding animal, or the aggregate of various species taken, or “success” in the form of a particularly difficult achievement relating to the bowhunting experience. When an individual is to be considered as a candidate for the Bowhunter of the Year Award, all aspects of this success should be considered. Fair chase must play a large part in considering this “success”. The totality of the circumstances should also be considered, meaning the individual’s experience, handicaps, advantages, the difficulty of the hunt and the overall attitude of the candidate. Any member of the MBA may nominate someone else or himself/ herself as a candidate, though the respective reps are encouraged to locate candidates within their area. The nomination should be submitted on the form (found below) or on a reasonable facsimile. The form should include a detailed account of why this individual is deserving of this award, and any verification of the success that is available. The “success” need not have occurred during the past 12 month period. It could have occurred at any time in the candidate’s bowhunting career. The candidate may be nominated year after year for the same success, though actual issuance of the Bowhunter of the Year Award can only be given once for any one success. All nominations will be brought before the Awards Committee. The secret vote will be taken within this body. The majority of the committee determines the Award.

RICHARD CONKLIN AWARD This award was established in honor of Richard Conklin, an attorney who was instrumental in assisting the MBA with establishing and protecting our archery opportunities in the early years of the organization. This award, which is not necessarily an annual award, is given only when an MBA member

is due the recognition for outstanding work or accomplishment in the field of service to the MBA and the sport of bowhunting. The procedure for giving this award is the same as the Bowhunter of the Year Award, with the exception that the vote will not be taken. The awards committee, along with the First Vice President, will through mutual agreement, by the majority of this body in attendance, decide if a candidate is to be the recipient of the award.

Nominations should be submitted on the form belo

SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Over the years it has become apparent that various individuals have been due recognition that does not necessarily fall within the realm of the two prior awards. This award or commendation is dictated depending on the circumstances and though, more often than not, does not have to be given to an MBA member. When an individual is due such recognition, his or her name and action should be forwarded to the award committee chairman in the same manner as the Bowhunter of the Year Award and the Conklin Award nominations. The committee will discuss these nominations at the same time as the other awards. This issuance of this award is on the approval of the majority of the awards committee.

PAUL SCHAFER AWARD This award is similar t the Bowhunter of the Year Award, but is only awarded to persons seventeen years old and younger. Ethics will play a large role in this award, as this is how Paul Schafer would have wanted it. So if you know of a young person deserving of this award, please send the information in.

MBA LITERATURE AWARD This award goes to the MBA member whose story in the Montana Bowhunter Magazine is chosen as the best of the year. The MBA magazine committee, in conjunction with the Awards committee, will choose the winner, but will consider all input and nominations from all MBA members. This is an annual award.

NOMINATIONS FOR BOWHUNTER OF THE YEAR AWARD RICHARD CONKLIN AWARD SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD PAUL SCHAFER AWARD & MBA LITERATURE AWARD Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City:__________________________________________________ State of Candidate:___________Zip: ____________________________ Bowhunter of the Year Award Richard Conklin Award Special Achievement Paul Schafer Award

Award:

Specifics: (Please describe in as great a detail as possible, on a separate sheet of paper, the reason this candidate should receive the above checked award. Please type or print legibly.)

Name of Nominator: _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Address of Nominator: ______________________________________________________________________________________________ regorp77@msn.com

18

Montana

BOWHUNTER

406-452-0911

WWW.MTBA.ORG

Forms must be received no later than March 15, 2017

GUEST SPEAKERS

WILDLIFE TOOTH AGING SEMINAR Matson’s Laboratory

Established in 1969, Matson’s Laboratory provides histological lab services to the wildlife community, including cementum age analysis. Located in Manhattan, MT, Matson’s preparation methodology has become a standard in wildlife age analysis for researchers and wildlife management authorities around the world. During this seminar, staff members from Matson’s Lab will explain and demonstrate their age analysis techniques.

SEMINAR SATURDAY 10:30PM – 11:30PM

RECRUITING AND MENTORING WOMEN INTO HUNTING Facilitators Joelle Selk, and Amy LePage with Brittany Brothers from ZeroPointZero

MBA members Joelle Selk and Amy LePage will facilitate an open-format discussion on what attracts women to hunting and ensuring positive hunting experiences through mentoring.

We are pleased to be joined by Brittany Brothers, Producer with ZeroPointZero, who has worked with Steve Rinella of the Meat Eater series. Brittany will present video interviews of women describing their hunting journeys and what drives women to pursue hunting.

SEMINAR SATURDAY 1:00PM – 2:00PM

Brittany Brothers Joelle Selk

Amy LePage

This seminar features footage from # PROJECTMULEDEER, FOSTERING MULE IntoHighCountry’s latest species-specific video production.

DEER POPULATIONS Their theme focuses on the importance of promoting habitat THROUGH HABITAT as a means to benefiting mule deer populations. Biologist Dean Waltee will present FWP’s ongoing mule deer studies which MANAGEMENTG demonstrate the importance of specific habitats for mule deer.

We’ll wrap up the discussion with a Q&A opportunity.

Dean Waltee FWP Biologist and Barrett Haugan Barrett Haugan, #PROJECTMULEDEER SEMINAR SATURDAY 2:30PM – 3:30PM

Dean Waltee

BOWHUNTERS!

Bring your trophies, shed antlers and hunting/bragging snap shots to be displayed at the Convention! We all enjoy seeing them and hearing the stories.

Please have your name and any vital stats recorded with your trophy for everyone to enjoy.

Contact Tim Roberts at 406-220-2051 for more information.

Spring 2017

19

AUCTIONS AND RAFFLES

AUCTION AND RAFFLE ITEMS LIVE HUNT AUCTION

ONLINE AUCTION 2017 DONATION HUNT: MONTANA BOWHUNTERS

Whitetail Hunt – valid Sept. 4-11, 2018 License fee of $400 is not included, and vehicle rental is required from the airport. Hunt value: $4,000.

Located in the heart of Alberta’s boreal forest, bear hunting in the Alberta wilderness is second to none. Thirty active bait sites throughout the area help attract the largest, trophy-quality bears, and we offer expert guidance during each of our three spring-season hunts, with a maximum of four hunters per week. Our commitment and dedication to making each bear hunt a success has made Northern Edge Outfitting one of Alberta’s leading outdoor outfitters. This is a 6-day hunt with a wolf/coyote license included with bear license/tags. The hunt includes all meals & lodging, your guide, and game preparation for transport.

Our dedication and outstanding knowledge of Alberta’s beautiful hunting terrain ensures that your experience will be enticing and memorable. As responsible outdoor outfitters in Alberta, we respect hunting, and Alberta’s land; we only take a limited number of hunters for each of the species, and never over-hunt. Our sustainable hunting philosophy allows us to provide trophy-quality animals for participants fortunate enough to attend a hunt with one of the premier outdoor outfitters in Alberta.

Colin & Mandy Paly Address: Box 504 Thorhild, Alberta, Canada T0A 3J0

Saskatchewan Black Bear Hunt 6-day 2018 spring bear hunt. Value: $3,100 Kutawagan’s hunting area is 192,000 acres (300 square miles) of prime Saskatchewan forest habitat. Huge black bears range throughout the area, with a high percentage of color phases.

Hunts start on Monday afternoon, end on Saturday evening.

Hunts include comfortable accommodations, excellent meals, and professional guiding which includes trophy and meat handling.

The lodge is located 15 minutes from the hunting area for quick access. Spring season is early May to mid June. In case you tag out early, enjoy world class walleye and pike fishing 25 minutes away at Tobin Lake.

Jeff & Annette Smith Choiceland, SK 306-428-2032

20

Montana

BOWHUNTER

WWW.MTBA.ORG

Ten days plains game hunt for two hunters in the malaria-free Matlabas Bushveldt, Limpopo Province, South Africa (day of arrival and departure included). This hunt is available in 2017 on a mutually agreed date between 1 April and 30 October. This is a minimum ten day hunt of which the daily rates for the first five days are included in the donation.

In addition, the following animals are included for each of the hunters: one Blue Wildebeest plus any two of the following: Warthog or Impala or Bush duiker or Steenbok. The hunt includes accommodation, meals, laundry service, the services of a professional hunter and trackers and skinners, field preparation of trophies and delivery to a taxidermist or ‘shipper & dipper’ in Limpopo. Transport from and to Johannesburg International Airport is excluded – cost $250 per hunter each way. All Value Added Taxes are included in the rates, except Value Added Tax (14%) to be charged on wounded animals that are not recovered and thus not exported. This is a compound or traditional bow hunt and may be upgraded or extended (for extra days or additional hunters or nonhunters) as per the current price list. Accompanying non-hunters are welcome. Members who have previously been on this hunt include John Beyer, Jeff Nicholls, dr. Amy & Stephen LePage, and Roger & Pat Allick.

Additional species that may be hunted include Limpopo bushbuck, bush duiker, Cape eland, gemsbok, kudu, nyala, red hartebeest, plains zebra, waterbuck, giraffe, caracal, black-backed jackal, vervet monkey and chacma baboon. The conservation authorities in South Africa allow the export of only one monkey and one baboon per hunter as a hunting trophy. The hunters on this hunt may however shoot additional unlimited monkeys and baboons, for free, provided not more than one of each are to be exported. Sable, tsessebe, roan and buffalo may also be available on other concessions. Prices are listed on the website www.matlabas.co.za/ hunting. This is a ‘bow hunting only’ concession, although rifles are occasionally allowed as an exception.

There are no licenses or permits required for plains game, but permits for small cats, monkeys and baboons need to be obtained prior to the hunt. A Conservation Levy of US $ 10 per animal taken will be charged and will go to the Conservation Fund of the Professional Hunters Association of South Africa. Accommodation is provided at Matlabas Game Lodge. The scrumptious meals are mostly traditional South African Bushveldt cuisine and venison is regularly served. The lodge consists of 4 thatched rooms and 2 en suite Meru type safari tents. The lodge has 220 Volt electricity, and other features include a lounge with satellite TV, a wildlife and natural history video library, a swimming pool, a ‘lapa’ where there will be a camp fire every evening, and a curio shop. A daily cleaning service is included in the hunt. Basic toiletries and towels are provided.

Excursions and other activities for non-hunters as well as tours and/ or photographic safaris at the end of the hunting safari are also available (a safari to the Kruger National Park is very popular with visitors from abroad and can be recommended). Fishing, scuba diving and/or wing shooting is also available prior to or after the hunting safari. Details will be provided on request. This is one of South Africa’s prime bow hunting destinations, but this hunt cannot be exchanged for other goods or services or alternative hunts. Nor can the free animals be exchanged for other species. This hunt is ideal for two hunting friends, or a hunting couple, who would like to experience authentic African bow hunting.

Should only one hunter be able to make the trip, the donation value for the second hunter will be forfeited. This is a 100% donation to Montana Bowhunters.

Donation Value: US $7650 (per 2016 price list) Outfitter contact details: Willem or Flippie Frost E-mail: info@matlabas.co.za Web: www.matlabas.co.za/hunting Telephone: (27) 147790969 or (27) 147790602

AUCTIONS & RAFFLES

TENT RAFFLE

LIVE AUCTION Greg Scheibel Fine Art - custom oil painting Scheibel Fine Art - Value: $1,200

“Sachem” signed, ltd. edition framed print

by Geoffrey Harding – Don Helmbrecht John Demott – Art of the American Frontier - custom painting MBA engraved knife - Skyblade Knives, Todd Orr Custom Barnwood Coffee Table Jeff and Elisha Kennedy - Value: $500

MBA Longcurve Bow auction MBA Metal Art – Dan Violett – West Weathered MBA Quilt – Teri Kelly

Montana Canvas Relite Spike III Tent and a Riley Lil’ Amigo Stove $20 each or 6 for $100 10x12x4 12oz. canvas tent (frame not included); stovepipe ring with flap, window.

The Little Amigo is a sturdy stove with dimensions of 11” x 10” x 18” with a 4” chimney hole. A small shelf and 5 feet of 4” pipe stores neatly inside the firebox.

It will heat a 10’ x 12’ tent and will feed 2-3 people. It will fit into most panniers.

“Hidden Mountain Moose” giclee print by Alan Jimmerson

NOTE: Any winner requiring shipment outside of Montana will be required to cover shipping charges. (approx. $150)

To experience a John DeMott painting is to truly experience a part of the great American frontier. And outdoorsman and storyteller of the American west, DeMott transcends the cliché of the western artist.

Born in 1954 and raised on Southern California horse ranches, he has worked and lived the life of his artistic subjects and can speak the language of his experience.

The ability to recreate a sense of place and time doesn’t come easily. Most collectors do not realize that DeMott spends hours researching and studying tools, wardrobe, accoutrements and the history of his subjects to recreate the detail that is a trademark of a Demott painting.

The Plains Indians, the trapper, cowboys, a grizzly bear in the wilderness or simply the beautiful southwestern landscape, it is DeMott’s gift that can make the viewer keenly aware of sense of time and place.

“As a storyteller of the American frontier, western art has been an important part of my life and I am proud to be involved in the preservation of our great heritage!”

John’s work has been published in the following art publications: Art of the West, Southwest Art, Art Talk, Civil War Art, Sporting Classics, and Western Horseman.

Spring 2017

21

AUCTIONS AND RAFFLES

Prizes are still rolling in! Official banquet and raffle order forms will be mailed to every member.

DEFENSE RAFFLE

BOW RAFFLE

$5 ea / 6 for $25 (each item won separately)

$5 ea / 6 for $20 (each item won separately)

Alpha Series 65 quart Siberian cooler – Siberian Coolers – David Cronk

Schafer Silvertip Recurve – Dave Windauer - $1000 gift certificate

Wild Game Innovation game camera – Big Bear Sports, Billings YCBHA donations – Joe Kondelis

Toelke Custom Bows – Dan and Jared Toelke Super D longbow 62” 49# @ 28”

“Back-of-the-Truck” Drop-In Bow Case – Lakewood Products

RER Custom bow – Chester and Ike Floyd - Vortex II longbow 45# @ 28” Pronghorn Custom Bows – Herb Meland – Retro recurve 60” mid-50# brown glass with hard maple limb core and riser

LEGISLATIVE RAFFLE $5ea / 6 for $25 (each item won separately) Rattlesnake and sinew-backed self bow, 45-50# with three stone-tipped arrowheads and a knife Mystery Ranch pack

Paul Martin – MBEF - “Cocobolo 3-D Killer” recurve bow

LADIES RAFFLE $5 each / 6 for $25 (each item won separately))

$200 gift certificate - Berger Taxidermy

10x42 Vortex binoculars – Ray Gross

Winchester bar stool - Red Rock Sporting Goods, Miles City

Montana Silversmiths engraved watch Montana Silversmiths engraved bracelet #1 Montana Silversmiths engraved belt buckle

CONSERVATION RAFFLE

Montana Silversmiths engraved bracelet #2

$5ea / 6 for $25 (each item won separately)

Denver Bryan / Images on the Wildside Canvas Prints

Green River Skinner knife – Roger Peffer Barbed Wire Art - Brian Mackie Antler Creek Designs

Arrowhead gemstone pendant – Stones of Old – Neil Maier

Silent Adrenalin ground blind – Don Helmbrecht Denver Bryan / Images on the Wildside canvas print Bohning Lynx bow quiver – Roger Peffer Pristine Ventures game bags

YOUTH RAFFLE $2 each / 6 for $10 (each item won separately) PSE Miniburner bow with accessories – Buffalo Jump Archery – Judy Adams RER Young Buck longbow – Joelle Selk

HAT RAFFLE

YCBHA donations – Joe Kondelis

Ticket Information at Convention

Tree stand – Bob Wards Missoula

OnXMaps package

Rhinehart Buck 3D target – MBEF

Other cool hunting swag!

SILENT AUCTION ITEMS Information available at the convention.

Black Gold Bowsight RipCord Arrow rest - Keith Dvorznak TightSpot Quiver RockinCK Gglassware – Chris and Kim Blaskowski Farr West Leather $100 gift certificate and 20-day range pass - 3D Archery - Vaughn, MT Denver Bryan / Images on the Wildside – Canvas Prints

22

Montana

BOWHUNTER

WWW.MTBA.ORG

Banquet and raffle ticket order forms will be mailed out to all members.

Downloadable forms are available at: www.mtba.org.

2017 CONVENTION DONORS

Spring 2017

23

BOARD NOMINEE BIOS

Board Nominee Bios Region 1 - Al Kelly

Region 3 - Barrett Haugan

It’s election time once again and I would like to serve another term as a Region 1 representative if you choose to vote for me once again. For those who don’t know me

My name is Barrett Haugan. I was born and raised outside of Bigfork, Montana. I have been involved me in many different outdoor activities throughout my life and have hunted since the age of 12 and began archery hunting around the age of 19; from there I fell in love with the sport.

I love to bowhunt along with most any activity that will take me outdoors.

I’ve been bowhunting for 37 years. I also work hard to give back to the sport because I love it and want to share that love with others and ensure that it will be here for future generations. I started teaching bowhunter education in North Idaho when the program was introduced in Idaho. I Moved to Montana in 1996 and after a few years began teaching again. Elk is my first love but I also have hunted and harvested whitetail, mule deer and turkeys.

I also like to get out and fish, and hunting my two Wire Haired Pointing Griffons.

I am also blessed to be married to a good woman who shares my passion for bowhunting, the outdoors and our dogs. Together we edit the magazine.

So if you wish I would gladly continue to serve. There is lots of work to do and I will do what I can.

All Kelly

Region 2 - Don Helmbrecht I’m Don Helmbrecht from region 2 and am on the slate for the upcoming elections. This will be my first time as a candidate as I am an appointee as of last December when I volunteered to fill a vacancy here in Region 2.

I’ve been a bowhunter for 45 years and a MBA member for 8 years having been a member prior to my move to Montana going on 6 years now. I’m a retired Postal Carrier and served our country prior to that for 7 years in the U.S. Army with tours in Vietnam, Germany and S. Korea. I’m still getting my feet wet as a Representative and there is much I have to take in. I’d be happy to have your vote and continue the learning process. Thanks for your consideration.

Helping with this organization and to better and prolong the future of hunting for the next generation would be a great honor and I would be pleased to continue be a part of it all.

Barrett Haugan

Region 5 - John Grimstad I have been bow hunting Montana since 1980. I served on the board of the MBA for 2 terms prior. My greatest accomplishments are my 2 kids and their love for the outdoors. I could tell you I have shot several bull elk and a big horn sheep with my bow, but I don’t think that is what makes a good bow hunter. A bow hunter is someone who loves the outdoors and who respects the animals they pursue. Size is not important, but having a passion and trying to make sure the next generations have the same (if not more) opportunities to bow hunt is what makes a respected bow hunter, in my opinion.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concern.

John Grimstad

Region 7 - Bob Morgan Hi I’m Bob Morgan from Colstrip Mt. and I’ll be running for a region 7 representative again this year again to help unite the states bowhunting sportsman to work towards a common goal of preserving and promoting the sport of bowhunting in Montana. Thanks.

Don Helmbrecht Bob Morgan

Region 3 - Brian Koelzer Hello everyone my name is Brian Koelzer. I’m a 38 year old Montana native who calls the Gallatin valley area home. A stone mason by trade, I am currently a partner in the family business. Lucky for me my profession keeps me in good shape and affords me a good amount of time in the woods.

In addition to the MBA I’m also currently a member of Bowhunter’s of Wyoming, PBS and Pope and Young Club regular member. Bob Savage, MBA member #1, made me my first bow when I was born. The year I turned six my father gave me that bow and a couple of blunt arrows. At age nine a three pound carp somehow ran into one of my arrows flung from that little #15 recurve and became my first bow harvest. Bowhunting has been a driving force in my life since I was a young boy. I used to spend hours looking at the pictures in my dad’s photo albums of guys like Paul Schafer, Gene Wensel, Barry Wensel and Lee Poole. Their majestic animals and amazing stories made me want to be a bowhunter.

Director at Large - Raymond Gross My name is Raymond Gross and I live in Dillon, Montana. I have been bowhunting for most of my life. I started in 1966, when I was 15, with a hand me down longbow. After I shot my first whitetail, I was hooked. I joined the MBA in 1984. I am also a member of the Montana Wildlife Association, Montana Sportsmen Alliance, Trout Unlimited, Montana Wild Sheep Foundation, Montana Hunters and Anglers, Beaverhead Hunters & Anglers, Rock Mountain Elk Foundation, Boone and Crockett Club and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks R3 Citizens Advisory Committee.

I am on the board of directors of the George Grant Trout Unlimited Chapter and have served on several Fish, Wildlife and Parks citizen’s advisory committees and working groups. I am dedicated to promoting and protecting the sport of archery hunting and the wildlife we love and enjoy.

Raymond Gross

Exclusively a bowhunter since my first archery season back in 1992 I’ve been quite fortunate to successfully bowhunt a variety of big game species all over North America. Through my travels I have met and befriended many people from far and near and it is in talking to those people that I have realized how truly blessed I am to call Montana home. For the past 12 years I have been a bowhunter education instructor in the Gallatin valley. I found it to be a very rewarding experience and it progressed into me wanting to become more involved in the MBA. During my past four years on the MBA board it’s been an honor to represent some of the finest bowhunters and people on the planet. I think i have a few more years left in me so if you’ll have me i would be happy to continue my position as a region 3 rep. Protecting what we have is very important because from what I’ve seen elsewhere around this country I don’t think we could have it much better!

Brian Koelzer

24

Montana

BOWHUNTER

Director at Large - Paul Martin Hello everyone my name is Paul Martin. I became a dedicated bowhunter around 1984 and have experienced some amazing moments on the ground and above from my tree stand with many successful hunts throw a few bad days in there and you have the life of a bowhunter. I have been on the board for the MBA 8 years now submitting reports from region 1 and maybe write a story every once in a while for the newsletter. I’m also a member of the TBM because I enjoy hunting with all legal archery equipment. And have been a member of the Pope & Young Club for some time now but one of my best achievements is being the founder of the Montana Bowhunter Education Foundation.

Paul Martin

WWW.MTBA.ORG

DRAFT BALLOT 2017 ELECTIONS

OFFICIAL BALLOT 2017 MBA ELECTION THIS BALLOT IS UNIQUE TO: Your membership status must be active to vote.

Family members will receive two ballots.

Return this ballot in the postage paid secret ballot envelope.

Candidates Seeking Election Secretary Write-in__________________

Region 1 Representative

(Region 1 members only – vote for candidate and/or write-in)

Al Kelly Write-in__________________

Region 2 Representative

(Region 2 members only – write-in candidates welcome)

Don Helmbrecht Write-in__________________

Region 3 Representative

(Region 3 members only – write-in candidates welcome)

Brian Koelzer Barrett Haugan

T F A R D

Region 5 Representative

(Region 5 members membe only – vote for candidate and/or and write-in)

John Grimstad ________________ Write-in__________________

Region 7 Representative

(Region 7 members only – vote for candidate and/or write-in) (Reg

Bob Morgan gan Write-in__________________ ________________ _________________

Directors-At-Large s-At-Larg – Odd Od Year

(All members vvote ote for ccandidates and/or write-in – total of 7 DAL positions)

Paul Martin Ray Gross Write-in_________________ Write-in_________________ Write-in_________________ Write-in_________________ Write-in_________________

GREG SCHEIBEL FINE ART Greg Scheibel has always felt a strong connection to the outdoors.

Throughout his life he has spent a great deal of time hiking, fishing, backpacking, and closely observing his surroundings, which has led to a deep appreciation for the remote locations and unspoiled beauty of the West, which is the main inspiration for his paintings.

Greg paints on location as much as possible, trying to capture an honest record of values, color and feel of an area. The emotional connection to nature which is the result of these field studies, is the foundation for all of his work.

Greg was a drywall contractor for many years, always with a dream of someday taking his passion for art to the next level. Years of drawing, pouring over art books, collecting and studying paintings of artists he admired, and a general accumulation of life’s experiences contribute to what he puts into his paintings. Greg began showing his work in 2005 and became a fulltime artist in 2007. His work can be found in several of the West’s finest galleries, and he has been invited or juried into a number of prestigious shows. He has received several awards for his work, and scholarships from the Scottsdale Artists School.

Greg has received an Award of Excellence from the Oil Painters of America on three seperate occasions, and is a Signature Member of that organization. He has been listed as an ‘Artist to Watch’ in Southwest Art Magazine, and featured in Western Art Collector, Distinctly Montana, Art of the West, and Southwest Art Magazines.

With a strong work ethic, continual study, and a genuine passion for expanding his abilities as an artist, he is truly inspired about his career as a painter. Greg lives in Bozeman Montana with his wife and two children.

Spring 2015

25

CANYON FERRY CARP SAFARI

Montana Bowhunters Association presents:

Have You Been “Carpified ?”

C A N YO N F E R RY C A R P S A F A R I JUNE 10, 2017 C A N YO N F E R RY L A K E , H E L E N A M T x

Bowhunting only - everyone welcome!!

x

Help Carp Management in Canyon Ferry Lake

x

Never been Carpified? -Help available from semi-professional Carp Ninjas

x

Send in Registration form by June 6

x

Evening meal included in pre-registration

Good Things to Know : - All sh oo ter s n e ed a vali d fi shi ng l i cens e - Boa ts m us t b e re gis ter e d wi th corr e ct numb er of li f eja ck e ts - Boa ts m us t b e cl ean up on arri val and cl ean e d pr io r to e n ter ing an o th er b o d y of wa ter - Bo whun ting on l y. Brin g l o ts o f arr ows - Carp Safa ri will run Sa tur da y f rom sun ris e un ti l 5 p .m.

Individual shooter - preregistered Individual shooter - day of shoot 2-person team - preregistered 2-person team –day of shoot Shooter - under 15 - preregistered Non - shooter meal ticket - prereg.

$20.00, meal included $20.00, meal not included $40.00, meal included $40.00, meal not included $ 10.00, meal included $ 6.00, fee for meal

Camping available at our private camping area—details and map posted at http://mtba.org

price (don’t worry, it’s not carp) How to g e t pr er eg is ter ed: x

Contact Joelle Selk to reserve a campsite in the group use area or log on to www.recreation.gov to reserve in the other loops at Hellgate

x Mail att ach ed form b y J u n e 6 , 2 0 1 6 x Mail p ayme nt t o: J o e l l e S e l k 6963 York Road Helena, MT 59602 (Make checks out to MBA) x Ne e d mor e f or ms o r i n f o?

jselkm t@gmail.c om P h one #: 4 0 6 - 4 2 2 -67 98

P R E R E G I S T R A T IO N FO RM C a n y o n Fe r r y C a r p S a f a r i J u n e 1 0 , 2 0 1 7 I n d i v i d u a l Sh o o t e r s $20.00 x ______ = Shooters under 15 $10.00 x ______ = M e a l t i c k e t -n o n - s h o o t e r $6.00 x _______ = 2-person team $40.00 x _______ = Total>> $_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Make checks out to MBA and mail to: Joelle Selk– MBA 6963 York Road Helena MT 59602

C a n y o n F e r r y La k e , H e l e n a $__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

List names of individuals, team members, phone #, and emails: ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________

Carp Safari - Hellgate Group Use Area and General Camping Info The MBA has Hellgate Group Use B reserved for the event from Thursday June 8th- Sunday June 11th at 11:00 am. There are 10 established campsites in Group Use B. The Bureau of Reclamation allows a tent to be associated with each of the established camper/ tent sites for “kid overflow.” Early attendees can set up camp in this area beginning Thursday at 12:00 pm.

Carp Safari organizer Joelle Selk is taking reservations for Group Use B campsites, In addition, we have reserved a few campsites in Loop A to make more camping available to carp safari participants.

To reserve a campsite, please email Joelle at jselkmt@gmail.com for details of sites available. Loop A campsites will be released to the general public the first week of June if not reserved in order to recoup those costs.

If you prefer to arrange your own camping reservations, you can reserve online at www.recreation.gov by searching for Hellgate Campground and Group Use Area or by clicking on this link:

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http://www.recreation.gov/camping/hellgate-campgroundand-group-use-shelter-area/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=NRSO&parkId=100027 Getting There: From Helena, MT: Head east along County Rd 430/Canyon Ferry Rd from Helena, MT, continue for 38 miles to the Hellgate Campground and Group Use Shelter Area sign and turn right. Continue straight until you reach the campground.

From Townsend, MT: Head north on Hwy 284 for 21 miles and turn left at the Hellgate Campground and Group Use Shelter Area sign.

Continue straight until you reach the campground.

For general campground inquiries, call the Canyon Ferry Bureau of Reclamation Office: (406) 475-3921

CONTACT NUMBERS

FWP Commissioner Contacts fwpwld@mt.gov

District 1

District 3

Gary Wolfe, Commissioner

Richard Stuker, Vice-Chairman

P.O. Box 7323

1155 Boldt Road

Missoula, MT 59807

Chinook, MT 59523

Phone: (406) 240-7323

Phone: (406) 357-3495

gwolfe207@bresnan.net

rstuker@mtintouch.net

District 2

District 4

Dan Vermillion, Chairman

Richard Kerstein, Commissioner

PO Box 668

Box 685

Livingston, MT 59047

Scobey, MT 59263

Phone: (406) 222-0624

Phone: (406) 783-8564

dan@sweetwatertravel.com

fw4buttes@gmail.com

For all those who purchase the plate, the MBEF would like to invite you to send us a photo of your plate on your vehicle.

Be creative, include yourself, pets, family, trophies of all sorts, etc.

District 5 Matthew Tourtlotte, Commissioner 940 Blonco Circle Billings, MT 59105

Photos will be posted on the website. www.mtbowhuntermuseum.org

Phone: (406) 698-9696 mtourtlotte@gmail.com

BUSINESS & CLUB MEMBERS

Active as of January 2017

Become a Business Member of the MBA and be listed on this page every issue! For membership visit www.mtba.org.

BUFFALO JUMP ARCHERY

Judy Adams

P.O. Box 5581

Helena

MT

59604

406-539-3936

CROWN PHOTOGRAPHY

Mike & Lucinda Layne

PO Box 9936

Kalispell

MT

59904

406-752-6116

DR. CAMO

Don Stein

1625 Northern Heights Dr

Havre

MT

59501

406-265-8099

EAGLE RESTORATION

Michael Henry

5853 Queen Annes Lane

Florence

MT

59833

406-549-1221

ELK CREEK FAMILY OUTFITTERS

David Hein

1021 Toole Circle

Billings

MT

59105

406-670-4366

ELKRIDGE GOLDENS

LeeAnn Curtis

PO Box 273

Avon

MT

59713

406-475-4536

FIRST CLASS OUTDOORS, LLC

10 Grassy Flat Rd

Roundup

MT

59072

661-317-0001

LIBBY ARCHERY CLUB

PO Box 755

Libby

MT

59923

406-293-7174

MATABLAS GAME HUNTERS

Willem Frost

PO Box 1559, Lephalale, 0555, South Africa

MIKE PRESCOTT STATE FARM

Mike Prescott

1501 S. Russell St.

MIssoula

MT

59801

406-541-9800

PRONGHORN CUSTOM BOWS

Herb Meland

2491 W 42nd St

Casper

WY

82604

307-234-1824

5705 Grant Creek Road

Missoula

MT

59808

406-523-4500

ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUNDATION

27116794664

SILVERTIP PLUMBING & HEATING

Scott Rice

PO Box 1103

Plains

MT

59859

406-370-4209

SPIRIT QUEST ARCHERY

Kevin & Kim Friedman

115 Rocky Cliff Rd

Kalispell

MT

59904

406-756-5455

TRAILS END CUSTOM RECURVE BOW

Dale Dye

276 Grantsdale Rd

Hamilton

MT

59840

406-363-2981

UDAP INDUSTRIES

Mark Matheny

1703 Waterline Rd

Butte

MT

59701

406-581-4856

WESTERN TRAILER & MARINE SALES

Clyde Thomas, Jr.

1865 Hwy 2 E.

Havre

MT

59501

406-265-4572

YELLOWSTONE COUNTRY BEAR

Joe Kondelis

4116 Temple Creek

Cody

WY

82414

307-899-0461

James Brown

PO Box 96

Richey

MT

59259

406-773-5509

HUNTERS ASSOCIATION

Spring 2017

27

HEADER

Do you enjoy bowhunting and our bowhunting seasons in Montana?

Join the MBA to preserve, promote and protect bowhunting!

What the MBA offers you: Expanded hunting opportunities through working with FWP and commissioners to preserve and expand bowhunting seasons Unified voice during legislative sessions to protect seasons and access programs while opposing efforts which seek to limit the role of FWP in managing wildlife Fellowship with others who are interested in shaping the future of bowhunting Quarterly magazine keeping you informed on local, state, and national bowhunting issues, bowhunter education, events, and great hunting stories

INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP One Year $25.00 Three Years $67.00 Life $500.00

FAMILY MEMBERSHIP One Year $30.00 Three Years $81.00 Life $750.00

JUNIOR MEMBERSHIP (Under 18) One Year

$5.00

CLUB MEMBERSHIP One Year $45.00 Three Years $120.00

BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP One Year $45.00 Three Years $120.00

OVERSEAS MEMBERSHIP Add $10.00 a year to membership choice for added mailing costs

Join Today!

Visit the MBA website at: www.mtba.org

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Memberships run January 1 to December 31 each year.

1

ALISHA MILLER 2016 South Dakota whitetail

4

7

BRIAN ASHE 2016 bull

MERRI CLAPHAMNovember deer M

10

NEIL JACOBSEN’S Sitka blacktail hunt

2

5

8

11

BOB MORTON 2016 whitetail.

Hoyt bow Magnus head

3

CRYSTA JO LECKRONE first archery buck 2016!

BRIDGER KAMPS with his third bull in four years of bowhunting.???

6

MIKE PRESCOTT 2016 Kansas buck died of a ruptured heart via muzzy tipped arrow at 36 yards on public WIHA area

9

AMY AND JUNE LEPAGE with Amy’s 2016 elk

MITCHELL LEPAGE 2016 doe

“TALL PAUL” GIERACH 2016 whitetail

12

SEAN DUNN 2016 first whitetail with a bow

Spring 2017

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WHY EVERY MONTANA BOWHUNTER SHOULD CONSIDER JOINING THE MONTANA BOWHUNTERS ASSOCIATION • The MBA is the organization the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks consults on bowhunting issues that affect Montana bowhunters.

• Montana has the best bowhunting seasons of any of the western states.

We are continually working to keep these.

• The MBA is active in the Legislature to protect and fight for our hunting and bowhunting seasons and rights.

• The MBA produces a quarterly magazine informing you of local, state, and national bowhunting issues and events, and publishing great stories and pictures.

• THE MBA NEEDS MEMBER NUMBERS AND YOUR YEARLY DUES TO CONTINUE TO PROTECT WHAT YOU ENJOY EVERY YEAR. ISN’T WHAT YOU ENJOY EVERY FALL WORTH $25 A YEAR TO PROTECT?

What the MBA has done for you?

• • • • • • •

• •

Worked to get the first archery season started in Montana. Along the way, we’ve increased the seasons to what you enjoy today.

Worked to establish archery bear, lion and sheep seasons.

Worked to establish archery antelope 900 tag and August 15th opener.

Worked to establish archery only areas and hunting districts.

Proposed a special archery wolf season and endorsed the highest quota of wolf harvest possible.

Actively protects hunting & bowhunting seasons in the Legislature year after year.

Defended our archery seasons against the “Crossbows & Muzzleloaders” threats throughout the years.

Created the Modified Archer’s permit that now allows those with handicaps to use modified archery equipment to hunt; which kept any need for crossbows out of Montana and defended our archery seasons against other crossbow threats throughout the years.

Re-established the archery season after it was left off the regulations one year.

Actively works with FWP to protect archery seasons, our resources, and expand archery opportunity in Montana year after year.

Photos by Denver Bryan / Images on the Wildside

•

What can you do for bowhunting in Montana?

Join the MBA at www.mtba.org to preserve, promote and protect bowhunting.

Spring 2015

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