VOL. 39 #4 Summer 2012
inside this issue: Officer & Regional Reports 2012 Convention Highlights “Passion for Bow Hunting” Kids and Bows
www.mtba.org
Montana
BOWHUNTER — 2 WWW.MTBA.ORG
www.mtba.org
MBA
MBA
Regional ional R Representatives epprreseentat e
Region 1
Al Kelly Paul Martin
PRESIDENT Joelle Selk 6963 York Road • Helena, MT 59602 jselkmt@3riversdbs.net • 406-422-6798
1ST VICE PRESIDENT Vacant
2ND VICE PRESIDENT Steve Schindler 134 Sawney Drive • Glasgow, MT 59203 sas@nemont.net • 406-228-9024
TREASURER Jenn Schneider PO Box 23611 • Billings, MT 59104 mtba@mtba.org • 406-697-7668
PAST PRESIDENT Jason Tounsley 8630 Longmeadow Dr.
•
Region 2 Region 3 Region 4
Marlon Clapham 4455 Hoover Lane, Stevensville, MT 59870 ..........................406-777-2408 marmerclapham@gmail.com Lucas Zemlicka 26 Sheridan Ave., Bozeman MT 59718 .................................406-580-9560 lucaszemlicka@hotmail.com Lyle Hebel 44 Sundance Trail, Bozeman, MT 59781.................................406-539-3195 lyle@pixelelk.com Cliff Garness Doug Krings
Region 5 Region 6
Great Falls, MT ....................................................................406-788-9009 obsession_archery@yahoo.com 107 Duck Haven Lane, Lewistown, MT 59457 ........................406-350-0451 region4mba@gmail.com
Brad Zink
3536 Summerfield Circle, Billings, MT 59105......................... 406-696-0126 region5mbarep@hotmail.com
Nick Siebrasse
4996 Bullhook Road, Havre, MT 59501 bowdude@mtintouch.net 2885 Old Highway Road,Chinook MT 59523...........................406-357-4119 mweber@itstriangle.com
Mark Weber
Region 7 Region 8
PO Box 219, Libby, MT 59923..............................................406-293-2900 alman@frontiernet.net 3160 Airport Road, Kalispell, MT 59901 ................................406-261-4456 paulhm@dishmail.net
Rex Rogers
Colstrip, MT ........................................................................406-740-3077 rr_tradbow@yahoo.com
VACANT
Billings, MT 59106
AT LARGE DIRECTORS MAGAZINE CO-EDITORS Teri and Al Kelly PO Box 219 • Libby, MT 59923 teray1979@yahoo.com
WEB DESIGNER Lyle Hebel www.pixelelk.com
MAGAZINE DESIGN K Design Marketing, Inc. Kimberly Kinsinger 15275 Thayer Rd. • Lolo, MT 59847 kim@kdesignmarketing.com • 406-273-6193
EVEN YEARS Steve Kamps
P.O. Box 192, Lincoln, MT 59639 – kamps@linctel.net ...........................................406-362-4907
Kelly Kimzey
435 South Atlantic, Dillon, MT 59725 – k_kimzey@umwestern.edu..........................406-925-3485
Roger Peffer
2517 9th Ave So., Great Falls, MT 59405 – regorp77@msn.com..............................406-452-0911
Seth Rogers
435 South Atlantic, Dillon, MT 59725 – k_kimzey@umwestern.edu..........................406-925-3485
ODD YEARS Adam Barker
1020 Valley View Dr., Great Falls, MT 59405 – adam.barker@ge.com ......................406-461-2792
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.
PUBLICATIONS DATES AND DEADLINES FALL ISSUE, D EADLINE, July 15 WINTER ISSUE, DEADLINE, October 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 Album and can be viewed at the annual conventions. Any questions as to policies of the MBA please write the President.
MEMBERSHIP INQUIRIES Please send new memberships or renewa memberships to MBA Treasurer, PO Box 23611 l Billings, MT 59104 or call 406-697-7668 or ask any member.
Summer 2012
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the from EDITOR 3 4
MBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS FROM THE EDITOR
Teri Kelly
6
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Joelle Selk 2nd VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Steve Schindler
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SECRETARY/TREASURER’S MESSAGE
Jenn Schneider
8 12 18 19
REGIONAL NEWS 2012 CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS 2012 ARCHERY SHOOTS “PASSION FOR BOW HUNTING”
i
Kim Blaskowsk
21 22 23
KIDS AND BOWS — Marlon Clapham BUSINESS & CLUB MEMBERS MEMBER GALLERY
Happy summer! Maybe it’s not officially summer, but at least by now we’ve all shaken off the last bits of winter and we are well into some nicer weather just in time to shoot some carp at the upcoming MBA Carp Shoot June 9th. You’ll find additional details about the shoot here in your magazine. Since I’ll be editing this awesome magazine I’d better tell you a little about myself. My name is Teri and I am married to Region 1 rep Al Kelly, who will be assisting with editing duties. I’m a native Montanan and grew up in a hunting family. I first started shooting a bow 15 years ago and started hunting for small game a few years after that. I started getting a little more serious a few years ago and harvested my first whitetail with my 44# custom Toelke just last fall. What a rush that was! Over the past several years that Al has been involved with the MBA, I’ve learned more about the organization, sort of like guilt by association I guess, and I often find myself promoting the mission of MBA and recruiting members. I have gained great respect for the men and women who diligently volunteer their time, skills and money to support the MBA. I felt like it was time to do my part, which is why I volunteered to take on the task of editing. I’ve assisted a little in the past but real editing is a new area for me and one I look forward to learning more about. The magazine has always been one of my favorites to get in the mail and all I can say is I will do my best to keep up the high standard previous editors have set. Please send me your stories, photos, ads, reports, etc. If you have a story or something to say and you’re not a big fan of writing, feel free to contact me and I can put your story or thoughts on paper. I hope to see, and meet many of you at the June 9th Carp Shoot, I’ll be the one running around with the camera.
Teri Kelly
About
THE COVER
Cliff and Mandy Garness on yet another successful bear hunt with Kutawagan Outfitters.
Montana
BOWHUNTER — 4 WWW.MTBA.ORG
Summer 2012
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PRESIDENT’S A
message
h, spring is finally here! The turkeys are strutting, the bears are wandering, and the time will soon be here for huntin’ carp. We’re truly fortunate to live in Montana and I hope you all make the most of the 2012 hunting seasons. I first want to extend a hearty “thank you” to the Butte convention crew, as well as the vendors, donors, and speakers. It was a very well-organized event, and it was great catching up with everyone as usual. Especially remarkable was the Founders video shown during the convention, which reminded us of our heritage, the hard-fought opportunities we enjoy, and the responsibility we have in protecting our bowhunting privileges. Always remember, these are privileges we have earned, not rights which have been given us. If we keep that foremost in our minds, we will continue to carry the torch for generations of bowhunters to come. You’ll note there’s been some turnover on the board, both within the officers’ ranks as well as the reps and DALs. It’s with a good measure of regret and gratitude that I say “good bye” to the board members who are moving on, and a heartfelt “welcome” with which I greet the “new guys,” Seth Rogers and Nick Siebrasse. To all those who have chosen to remain another term, thanks for your dedication, because this ain’t an easy job. During the convention, several long-time members challenged us to redouble our efforts to increase membership. Although we’ve felt that we’ve given our utmost to this effort in recent years, it’s important to continue seeking out new ways to educate bowhunters about our mission, and why it’s important for them to join us in a unified effort to protect bowhunting. Recently, during a meeting with other sportsmen, one of the leaders made a distinction which I feel should define our actions in the coming year, “Values unite us; issues divide us.” We must be crystal clear about our guiding principles, our priorities, and our goals in order to make choices which unite us and mediate the issues which can tear us apart. We can only do this when we’re represented with a well-informed, robust membership. It’s our primary task as a board to increase membership and then communicate effectively with our members so we can make united decisions. The coming year will be full of more challenges as we enter the legislative cycle. Many groups are already preparing bill drafts and finding sponsors to carry them. We are preparing for the onslaught which will threaten our opportunities, and will need every ally to assist in the battle. Our greatest asset is our membership, and there is power in numbers, so sign up your friends and family so they can help protect Montana’s bowhunting opportunities. In the meantime, I welcome you to the 2012 Canyon Ferry Carp Safari on June 9th (registration form included herein). It’s always a great time, and we have awards and prizes galore, so bring your family and friends to join in the fun.
Joelle Selk Montana — 6 BOWHUNTER
WWW.MTBA.ORG
A
fter our election the MBA has several new officers and board members and it would be good for you to get to know your new representative or Director at Large. For sure make sure he has your e- mail address so he can keep you in the loop and you can participate in our online surveys. We have had great response so far with the surveys and we want every member to have the opportunity to participate. The MBA has a lot on its plate for the upcoming year. Most of it will deal with how we conduct business. There is talk about a few changes to the by-laws that will modernize our communications and generally make it easier for us to handle the MBA’s business. One of the things I would like to see happen is to rearrange our area rep and DAL regions. As it is now, each region in Montana has 2 area reps. Tthe trouble is, some regions have 3 and 4 major towns and are several miles apart, so with 4 or 5 dollar a gallon gas it makes it difficult for some of the towns to get the representation. Now if we had the ability to have an area rep in each of these bigger towns, and not be tied to only having 2 for the region, I feel it would better represent the members. We do have Director at Large positions that are not tied to a specific region and have been filling in the gaps so far. As of right now this is just something I am thinking of. The board will go over it, hash it out, and I am sure we will come up with a better mouse trap. The winter was just what the doctor ordered for our still recovering deer and antelope populations in eastern Mt. Some were saying after last winter/ summer it would take 10 years for the populations to rebound. Winters like this past one will cut that rebound time in half for sure.
A new hot topic that has been in the news lately is the buffalo. There have been talks about introducing the buffalo back to the CMR. I have some real concern over this and as of now nothing official has happened. There are concerns about buffalo and cattle interactions, and although these are important, my biggest concern are sportsmen/buffalo interactions. One thing we have to understand is that buffalo are not just big cows. They can never be trusted and are more than willing to perform surgery on you if you would happen to bump into one unexpectedly. I really have concerns that the elk hunting would be somewhat impacted by reintroducing the buffalo. Now I know this is all just “supposing”, but we have to think about these things and be prepared when it comes time to give our comments. I wonder what would happen if a bowhunter were hiking down one of the flat top ridges on the CMR heading out to an lek lookout spot way before daylight, and he ran headlong into a few buffalo. I only have images of the “Flying Japanese photographer” in Yellowstone Park… he got too close. Well, as I said, we have to make sure we know what there is to know about these things.
Steve Schindler
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. These photos can be sent via email to mbeftld@dishmail.net or snail mail at MBEF 3160 Airport Rd Kalispell, MT 59901 These photos will be posted on the upcoming MBEF website.
SECRETARY/ TREASURERS’ M
message
y second convention as Treasurer was a raving success, due entirely to the organization of the convention committee. These guys have set the bar pretty high; I hope their successors took notes! What really struck me about this convention, over the almost 20 I’ve been to, was the realization of my responsibilities as an officer and board member for this group. When I was asked to do this job, I thought it would be fun to be a part of something I’ve watched evolve over the years as well as get to know some of the people who had put more hours into defending bowhunting, than I had been bowhunting. I was way off. The video we watched at this banquet haunted me for a good week. It sends chills up my spine to think those men have been watching us run this organization that they put their blood, sweat, and tears into and haven’t beat down doors to tell us what they think we should be doing. Is it so crazy that I never took a moment to think about how my decisions make them feel? Everyone knows our group has gotten awfully political, even divided in the last couple years, and now more than ever we need that guidance and reference from our roots. Why are we spending hours looking at emails and calling members and arguing with our comrades? Now I get it, now I know why I’m in this place at this point in time. There is a generation of apathetic bowhunters who have no idea what’s coming at them, but I do. I’m surrounded by a board that’s smart and driven and we will sacrifice those hours to serve the greater good and even those guys who have never wanted to be a part of this, and bash us to their buddies in the bow shop. I will sacrifice a few more hours for those who want to protect this; who send thank you notes, pay their memberships and stay the weekend for conventions and carp shoots. Most of all, I give thanks and shed tears of joy for those who served before me, those who already know the sacrifice and support still, the greater than ever need for purposeful volunteers, who won’t tolerate apathy and dissension. For those who couldn’t make the convention, please keep checking the website for that video, please keep asking yourself why we have it so good in this state, and please keep pushing us to be better representation of you. And THANK YOU to Bob Savage, Jerry Karsky, Lee Poole, Scott Koelzer, Dick Solum, Mark Baker and everyone else who made it possible for me to be here doing this job and bowhunting in this beautiful state.
Jenn Schneider
Paul Martin
Summer 2012
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MBA
regional NEWS
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Al Kelly
Region 1 AL KELLY PAUL MARTIN
T
he convention in Butte was a great success. A great convention crew did a great job. This is my personal thanks to all who worked so hard to make it happen. The theme of the banquet was a look into the past and how the MBA came to be. This is also my personal thanks to those founding members who had the vision and determination to establish and empower the organization that the MBA has grown to be over all these years. There is no doubt that this organization is responsible for the great seasons we now have (and many folks take for granted). In this fastpaced, instant gratification, entitlement attitude world we live in, we need members willing to work for the greater good of all and not just to their own agenda. We need to think about the future. Will our kids and their kids enjoy the best seasons and bowhunting opportunities available in any state? That will depend on whether or not we can accept the lessons of our forefathers and pass it forward. It is not easy. It is not neat and tidy and without controversy. But it is necessary to participate. So lastly, this is my personal thanks to all who have and all that will participate in the great organization we call the Montana Bowhunters Organization. Thank You,
Montana
Al Kelly
BOWHUNTER — 8 WWW.MTBA.ORG
egion 1 report: GREAT JOB! to the guys and gals who put on the 34th Convention in Butte. With the banquets theme of honoring some of the founding fathers of the MBA, I was inspired to dig up one of my old photos for this report. In fact this was my first white tail buck with a bow back in 1984. Just get a load of that hat and check out the mustache. It was the 22nd of Nov., I ambushed him on a trail with a shot of 9 feet, and a recovery of 10 yards. I’ll tell you, after that my rifles would just gather dust, needless to say I was hooked for life. Now we are looking forward to 3D shoots and the Carp shoot, but excited about the turkey and spring bear, especially the spring bear with all HDs in region 1 open until the end of May. I would like to tell you that it is about time to promote the return of our grizzly bear season. One of the most coveted animals of Pope & Young 29 categories could become available in the near future in MT. With a thousand bears in Region 1 alone it’s time for this to become reality. On May 5th I will have attended one of FWP’s trapping classes here in Kalispell, it’s one of the things I felt we have to do to help control the predators for the start of our wildlife recovery. I would encourage as many of you as possible to do the same. I think we all can agree, we live in interesting times, archery and bowhunting appears to have captured the imagination of Hollywood with all the recent movies featuring ethical bowhunters like in Avatar and recently The Hunger Games, where it is advantageous to be a bowhunter. Archery and bow hunting is alive and well.
Paul Martin Paul Martin
Region 2 MARLON CLAPHAM
I
t’s been a long time since I’ve written for this Newsletter, so bear with me as I get back into it. The Convention has come and gone. Many thanks go out to those of you that put all the work into this undertaking; I had a ball, meeting all the new and old members again. It was a lot of fun. I want to let all Region 2 members know that we have the 2013 MBA Convention here in Missoula. Gary Carvajal has taken the reins of putting the committee on the right track and then keeping us there. The hotel has been secured and we have a guest speaker all lined up. Now we will focus on all the items that need ironed out. Right now, most of us Bowhunter Ed. instructors are busy with all the spring classes, and in our spare time, getting ready for Spring Turkey and Spring Black Bear seasons. Then all the spring shoots are coming up all over the state, and they’re always a good place to recruit new members to the MBA. The Five Valley Archery Club puts on the Bear Shoot along with the State Champion Shoot, June 16 & 17. It’s a great membership drive and brings in about fifty new members a year. So if you can, try to attend, it is always a great shoot. Lastly, the Carp Shoot is coming up June 9th, and might just be a great weekend to meet up with other MBA friends and have some fun and just relax. Keep in touch,
Marlon Clapham
Region 3 LYLE HEBEL LUCAS ZEMLICKA
W
ell, the annual convention has come and gone once again. And once again, our donors have shown tremendous support for the MBA and made some fabulous donations. I can’t thank all of you enough for your donations. If it wasn’t for your generosity, the MBA wouldn’t be able to pursue its mission statement of preserving and promoting bowhunting in Montana. Congratulations to the award winners at the convention this year. The literature award went to J.D Jones for his excellent article on Bowhunting Elk with a Pregnant Wife. Jason Tounsley was the winner of the Conklin Award this year. This award is not given out every year, but only when someone is due recognition for their outstanding work toward the MBA over the past year. Congratulations Jason, it was well deserved. The Bowhunter of the Year Award went to Ashley Hartsook. This lady worked her butt off, from never bowhunting before to taking two Pope and Young animals her first year both on public land in Montana. Congratulations, Ashley. Three Forks will hold its bowhunter education classes on June 30 and July 1 at Three Forks High School (210 East Neal Street). Classes will run from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Online registration is required. Students should go to fwp.mt.gov and click on “Education” then “Hunter Education” to view the schedule of classes for both bow and hunter education classes and sign up. Big Sky Archery will be offering bowhunter education classes on June 18th-20th and 25th-27th. Thanks
Lucas Zemlicka Lucas Zemlicka
Region 4 CLIFF GARNESS DOUG KRINGS
Well, I got to spend less than
12 hrs at the MBA Banquet in Butte, but I had a good time nonetheless and it appeared to be a great turnout. I tried to better my odds at winning the bear hunt to no avail, although my father won it, so that was great to see him win a VERY NICE prize. I am sure his winnings will cost me money as well, as Jeff and Annette (www.kutawagan.com) run a fabulous camp. Thank you, Jeff and Annette, for your continued support of the MBA. Thank you to all the donors who provided wonderful prizes and raffle items for the convention. If you see or do business with any of these donors, please tell them thank you for their support of the MBA. Congrats to all the nominees who won an MBA Award. I would like to challenge each of us to recognize more folks like these winners, by nominating them for awards next year. A big THANKS to the REGION 3 folks who put on one hell of a banquet. Elk and deer tags are out, so congrats to all the lucky participants who drew and good luck to all in the draws that are yet to come. The weather is getting nicer and there are lots of archery shoots going on, so get out and practice for the upcoming seasons and support the local archery clubs. The Carp Safari will be here before you know it, so write June 9th on your calendar to participate in another great MBA Sponsored event. With the spring seasons upon us, please email your success photos to me, so that we can get them posted in the magazine and/or the website. As always, if you have questions, concerns or thoughts, please email me at obession_archery@yahoo.com.
Cliff Garness
Greetings Region 4, It is nice to see what I would call a normal Montana spring. Sunshine and green grass is a welcome edition to April this year in the central part of the state. Before too long, the carp will be cruising the shallow bays and it will be time again for the MBA Carp Shoot at Canyon Ferry Reservoir, and I hope to see everybody there. It’s just too bad they don’t taste like walleye. I would like to thank the retired board members who served the MBA well over the past years, and congratulate those stepping up to the plate. I would also like to thank all of the members who stay so involved. This is a good time to meet your legislative candidates and ask them face to face how they feel about issues affecting fish and wildlife in Montana. Make sure they know that if they are elected, you will hold them to their word. As always, make sure you get in touch with me if you have any questions or concerns regarding the path of the MBA. Fill me in on what is happening in your part of Region 4. Send me an email or give me a call anytime. I’ll admit I am somewhat distracted writing this update, as it is still turkey season and the sun is finally shining. The weekend forecast looks good enough that I am certain I will scare the hell out of at least a couple of birds. If nothing else, I hope to drag a couple antlers home for the pile. Thank you for your time,
Doug Krings
continued on page 10
Summer 2012
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Region 6
Legislative: Joelle Selk, Chair Adam Barker • Steve Schindler Doug Krings • Cliff Garness Rex Rogers • Mark Weber • Nick Siebrasse
NICK SIEBRASSE MARK WEBER
H
Region 5 BRAD ZINK
Hello All, The convention in Butte was great. The Bozeman guys did a great job. Boy, there is a lot of work that goes into the convention. By the time you read this turkey season will be over and bear season will be winding down. I am going to try to get my first turkey with my bow this year. I think it is everyone’s duty as a Montana sportsman’s to be active in the recruitment of new members in the MBA. I hope to see everyone at the carp shoot. It should be great this year with less water than last year.
Brad Zink
ad a great time in Butte at the 2012 convention and have been having fun traveling to 3-D shoots with family and friends. I also just got back from hunting turkey in the breaks and it’s time for Bowhunter education classes. What a great life. It seems like every spare moment I’m not working my small ranch or driving a UPS truck I have my bow in hand. I love this state and am proud to be a “Brother of the Bow”. My wife Sharon and I have 3 daughters and a son that are all the outdoor types. The kids are all gone and I am about to retire from the brown truck, so I want to serve as a MBA board member. I would love to hear from you all about anything that you feel might affect this great life style we call Bow Hunting. Give me a call or e-mail any time. Your Brother of the Bow,
Nick Siebrasse bowdude@mtintouch.net
Nick Siebrasse
Tentative: Steve Kamps, Chair Adam Barker • Joelle Selk Paul Martin • Nick Siebrasse Rex Rogers • Doug Krings Marlon Clapham • Kelly Kimzey
Financial: Brad Zink, Chair Mark Weber • Jenn Schneider
Landowner/Sportsman: Al Kelly, Chair Cliff Garness • Lucas Zemlicka
Nominations: Steve Schindler, Chair Adam Barker • Mark Weber • Doug Krings Steve Kamps • Rex Rogers Al Kelly • Paul Martin Lucas Zemlicka • Lyle Hebel • Joelle Selk
Awards: Roger Peffer, Chair Al Kelly • Steve Schindler Cliff Garness • Jenn Schneider
Membership: Lucas Zemlicka, Chair Rex Rogers • Doug Krings Nick Siebrasse • Jenn Schneider Roger Peffer • Kelly Kimzey
Convention 2013: Gary Carvajal, Chair Jenn Schneider • Joelle Selk Steve Kamps • Lyle Hebel Lucas Zemlicka • Marlon Clapham
Magazine: Al & Terri Kelly, Co-Chairs Lyle Hebel • Steve Schindler Rex Rogers • Joelle Selk
Website: Lyle Hebel, Chair Joelle Selk • Rex Rogers • Jenn Schneider
Carp Shoot: Joelle Selk, Chair
Bow-Ed:
Montana
BOWHUNTER — 10 WWW.MTBA.ORG
Al Kelly, Chair Marlon Clapham • Nick Siebrasse
At Large ADAM BARKER
H
ey folks, spring has arrived in Great Falls and some birds and bears have already hit the ground in R4. I hope you all get a chance to stretch your legs (and bowstrings) Adam Barker to start off a new set of seasons right. Please consider sending some photos or stories to get them in the Magazine or on the website. Not much news in this part of the state to report. Most big-game counts in R4 are strong with the exception of mule deer in the west, and antelope in some of the North. Sheep are a bit touchy in some areas of the Front, but nothing to stress about just yet. Keep in mind that we’ll need some guiding input in the near future as the legislative session begins to unfold. There is sure to be plenty of bills dealing with wildlife this session, so watch for inbox for MBA updates. No personal luck with any big permits for bucks or bulls, but if you’ve come up a winner – you may want to turn to the MBA membership as a good starting point for your research. I’m always amazed at the amount of experience, knowledge and accomplishment that we enjoy in the faithful ranks of the MBA. On the permit topic, a side note to think about is that there was an ES elk archery-only LPT in the Breaks, where 1st choice residents were denied. It might be worth some thought on the direction of ES archery elk permits in the state of MT. Where do we want to be 10 years down the road? Lastly, it’s the time of year for archery shoots across the state. Consider marking your calendars for the Helena Carp Safari in June or the Clearwater Junction Bear Shoot that is always on father’s day weekend ---- both events are tied in to the MBA.
however, that want to see more lions to chase and bigger lions to harvest that are resisting getting lion populations back in balance. The MBA is supporting the proposals the Department recommends because they are based on the best science available and because the vast majority of our membership want lion populations to be brought back in to balance. I cannot stress enough how important it is for you to let the Commissioners know how you feel. While scientifically based proposals recommended by FWP that are supported by the majority of sportsmen should be supported by the Commission, it doesn’t always work that way. At times like these, you need to make your voice heard, or don’t complain about it later when poor decisions have been made. The deadline for comment on the lion proposal is May 25th. You can read the proposal and the associated proposed changes to the quotas at: http://fwp.mt.gov/fwpDoc.html?id=55437. You can comment by going to: http://fwp.mt.gov/hunting/ publicComments/2012mtnLionQuotas.html A final decision will be made by the Commissioners at their June meeting. The wolf season will be considered by the Commission in May with a final decision made in July. At the time of this writing, we do not know what the proposal for this coming year’s wolf season will look like, but to say the least, it is expected that it will be more aggressive than last season. Statutory changes to the wolf seasons must be passed by the Legislature next winter before they can be instituted on the ground. Several proposals are: are more than one wolf allowed per hunter or trapper, allowance for trapping, use of electronic calls, and reductions in wolf license fees. These changes cannot be made by FWP until they are changed by law. We are pushing to have these changes made as soon as possible within the Legislative process so they can be used immediately during the winter in 2013 while there is still some wolf hunting season left. As always, stay tuned and make your voice heard.
Steve Kamps
Adam Barker I
DIRECTORS
STEVE KAMPS
hope you are all out enjoying spring and pursuing some of those bears and toms our great state has to offer. While Tentatives Season is mostly past us, let’s not forget that lion and wolf seasons and quotas are still being decided. These are very important decisions as they directly affect ungulate populations and what we see in the woods.
Steve Kamps
For mountain lions, Region 1 is proposing 20% increases in their permit numbers. Region 2 is looking at much needed increases in female harvest with the newly instituted hybrid lion season (1st half season by permit and 2nd half by quota system).. FWP Department staff have been listening to us sportsmen as well as watching all indicators showing that lion populations are high while many of our ungulate populations are in steep decline, and have based their quota recommendations on sound science. There are some,
Summer 2012
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Montana
BOWHUNTER — 12 WWW.MTBA.ORG
Summer 2012
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34th Annual Convention HIGHLIGHTS
2012 AWARD WINNERS Bowhunter of the Year Ashley Hartsook
Live Auction Winners Fish Fisher Lamp donated by Fish Fisher Cookie Koch Wire Pheasant donated by Brian Koelzer Greg Durward Antler End Table donated by Brian Mackie Steven LaPage Denver Bryan print donated by Denver Bryan Cookie Koch Primitive bow donated by Jim Rempp Seth Becker Jack Creek hunt donated by the Jack Creek Preserve Foundation Barrett Hougan Allen Jimmerson print Linda Heichle Jim Doland art donated by Jim Doland Jim Birkelo Big Horn Sheep Bronze donated by Vicky Davis Cookie Koch Skyblade Knife donated by Todd Orr Cookie Koch
Conklin Award Jason Tounsley
African hunt donated by Matlabas Game Hunters Keith Dvoroznak Bear Hunt donated by Kutawagan Outfitters Steve Garness Jar of Cookies donated by Roger Peffer Cookie Koch Beauty Package Cookie Koch Darrell Davis print donated my Montana FWP Judy Adams Literature Award J.D. Jones
Montana— 14 Montana
WWW.MTBA.ORG — 14 WWW.MTBA.ORG BOWHUNTER BOWHUNTER
Longcurve bow donated by the MBA Kim Riley Alberta moose hunt donated by Silver Fox Outfitters Blaine Brengle
!2#(%29 3%!3/. IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER '%4 2%!$9 ./7 • Professional Techs • Bows for All Budgets • Repair & Strings/All Brands • Great Selection - Arrows & Acc. • Lessons All Levels • Indoor & Outdoor Range -FXJT $MBSL "SDIFSZ .FNCFSTIJQ 3FRVJSFE
,ET US HELP YOU WITH YOUR HUNT PSE → Elite → Martin → Strothers → High Country ,OCATED IN THE HISTORIC +ESSLER "REWING BUILDING (WY 7EST END
(ELENA BUFFALOJUMPARCHERY COM
Summer 2012
15—
34th Annual Convention HIGHLIGHTS
www.pronghornbows.com 307-234-1824 evenings 2491 West 42nd Street Casper, WY 82604
34th Annual Convention HIGHLIGHTS
A HUGE
“THANK YOU” TO ALL OUR
DONORS AND SUPPORTERS! Jim Dolan Artist Images on the Wild Side Matlabas Game Hunters Scheibel Art Pacific Steel Speedy Lube Clean Waste Olivelle Joe’s Parkway Take A Hike Expressions Traditional Outdoors Bozeman Optical Silpada Designs Representative Buffalo Jump Archery Prois Mattress King Sula Country Store & Resort J&E Carpentry Sky Blade Knives E.L.K., Inc Bear Country Containers 24/7 Muscle & Fitness Wasta Ag YETI Game Trails Wildlife Studio
Montana Montana — 16
Adventure Medical Kits Montana Target Western Trailer & Marine Sales Kutawagan Outfitters Dukes Assesories Be The Decoy Outdoor DNA Trophy Taker Easton Delta Farr Automotive H & H Meats Schenees Pronghorn Custom Bows Toelke Traditional Bows Yellowstone Custom Bows Schafer Silvertip Bows Sapphire Traditional Archery Bears Paw Bows Dr Camo Rocky Mountain Archery Sitka Mystery Ranch Mountain House Iron Llama Manufacturing
WWW.MTBA.ORG — 16 WWW.MTBA.ORG BOWHUNTER BOWHUNTER
Game Trails Wildlife Studio Wholesale Sports TNT Springs Jack Creek Preserve Extreme Bowstrings Montana Mapping &GPS Antler Creek Wildlife Creations Tightspot Quivers Mike Vinion Classic Bowhunting MBA FWP Lanshark Broadheads Quality Skull Cleaning Shur Taxidermy Berger Taxidermy Work Sharp Tools Summit Beverage Adventure Medical Kits FHF Gear Ripcord Technologies Frontier Anglers Murdocks Ranch Supply Rocky Mountain Supply Bitterroot Trading Post
Big R Great Falls Lucas Zemlicka Silver Fox Outfitters UDAP Pepper Power Montana Mobile Meats Swhacker Broadhead Muzzy Broadheads Big R Montana Canvas Riley Stoves Larry Zabel The Family of William M. Davis Mid Rivers Brunton SW Montana Plastic Surgery Pronghorn Freaks Centaur Archery Rocky Mountain Supply Murdocks Ranch Supply Burris 3 Rivers Archery Scheels Billings Roonco Inc. Bob Lydia Dan and Steph Rooney Roger Peffer
Joey and Jesse Nelson Lyle Hebel Brian Koelzer Jason Hegg Ashley Hartsook
34th Annual Convention HIGHLIGHTS
Thanks to the 2012 Convention Crew for their hard work. Nate and Marci Peckinpaugh Brandon VanDyken Jenn Schneider Lucas Zemlicka
Spring 2012
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2012 Archery Shoots June 2nd and 3rd — Fisher River Shoot Fawn Creek Campground near Libby MT Libby Archery Club - 406-293-8738 June 9th and 10th — Summer Sizzler Williamson Park 5 miles south of Shelby, Montana on the frontage road. Registration begins at 8:00 AM Marias Valley Archers Loren Skartved (406) 424-2256 or Mike Pederson (406) 460-0649 June 9th — 2012 Canyon Ferry Carp Safari Hellgate Campground, Canyon Ferry Lake, outside of Helena, Montana MBA - mtba.org/montana-resources/carpfest June 17th — 3D Forsyth, MT 8 AM registration Pronghorn Archery club of Forsyth, MT Barb Purdon bpurdon@q.com June 16th and 17th — 3D Makoshika State Park — Makoshika Bowmen of Glendive MT Contact Jim Thompson for more info: 406-687-3412 June 23rd and 24th — 14th Annual Barber Ranch 2 day archery shoot Barber Ranch BearPaw Bowmen Archery Club – Havre Clyde – 406-265-4572 or checkout www.bearpawbowmen.com
Montana
BOWHUNTER — 18 WWW.MTBA.ORG
July 7th and 8th — Shoot for the Cure 3-D shoot Townsend All proceeds are donated to the Susan G. Koman Foundation Montana. Any questions please check our web site at www.shootforthecuremontana.org July 21 and 22 — Kings Hill Shoot Harley Park in Little Belt Mtns — GFAC For more info all shoots are on our web site www.greatfallsarchery.com or you can emai questions to gfarchery@yahoo.com July 28th and 29th — 3D Makoshika State Park — Makoshika Bowmen of Glendive MT Contact Jim Thompson for more info: 406-687-3412 August 4th — 2 person Best Arrow & Broadhead Shoot Forsyth, MT 8 AM registration Pronghorn Archery club of Forsyth, MT Barb Purdon bpurdon@q.com August 4th — Field Archery Sampler Wadsworth Park Electric city Archers Dan Crawford 406-799-0953 Club or email: archeyelecty@aol.com
“passion for bow hunting”
Kim Blaskowski
In 2009 I was introduced to the world of bow hunting by my husband Chris. That same year we attended the Montana Bowhunters Association Convention and joined the group. I was so excited to be surrounded by a group of people who shared the passion for bow hunting. Since then we have attended the convention every year traveling from place to place each year. Seeing old friends and meeting new ones. Exchanging our hunting stories from the past year and looking forward to the evening of events, games and raffles. This year was different for me and maybe a lot of others as well. Steven Drake put together a wonderful video about the founding fathers of the MBA. Up to this point I had never thought twice about who started this great group and I really felt ashamed. Watching this video, I was educated on who those founding fathers were, the obstacles they overcame and the path they carved out for us. I now have a new outlook on what this organization means to me. No longer am I JUST a member. It is
Bob Savage, Montana Bowhunter member #1
my duty as a member to be actively involved in all aspects of this group.
Uniting the state’s bow hunting sportsmen to work towards a common goal of preserving and promoting the sport of bowhunting in Montana.
From contacting my congressman about certain bills to volunteering
a group of men some 30+ years ago. It’s not just about meeting up once a year to
for anything that needs to be done.
socialize and tell great stories. It’s about a way of life for us and for the generations
I challenge all members to be more
to come. If you are not a member of the MBA but another organization, I encourage
involved with the MBA. It is our
you to find out all you can about that group’s history and be a productive member.
duty to carry on what was started by
Summer 2012
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Do you enjoy bowhunting and our bowhunting seasons in Montana? Join the MBA to preserve, promote and protect bowhunting! What the MBA offers you:
INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP
Expanded hunting opportunities through working with FWP and commissioners to preserve and expand bowhunting seasons
One Year $25.00 Three Years $67.00 Life $500.00
FAMILY MEMBERSHIP
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
One Year $30.00 Three Years $81.00
JUNIOR MEMBERSHIP (Under 18) One Year
Fellowship with others who are interested in shaping the future of bowhunting
$5.00
CLUB MEMBERSHIP
Quarterly magazine keeping you informed on local, state, and national bowhunting issues, bowhunter education, events, and great hunting stories
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 Memberships run January 1 to December 31 each year.
Join Today! Visit the MBA website at: www.mtba.org
YES! I wish to join the MBA. Enclosed is my check, money order or credit card for the membership checked below! SEND TO: MBA, PO BOX 23611 . BILLINGS, MT 59104 • PH. # 406-697-7668 Name: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Street: ____________________________________________ City: __________________________ State: ________ Zip: __________ Email: _________________________________ Date:______________________Telephone: (_____) ____________________________ INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP* One Year $25.00 Three Years $67.00 Life $500.00
CLUB MEMBERSHIP* One Year $45.00 Three Years $120.00
MBA HATS $15.00 each + $5.00 postage
FAMILY MEMBERSHIP* One Year $30.00 Three Years $81.00
BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP* One Year $45.00 Three Years $120.00
JUNIOR MEMBERSHIP (Under 18) One Year $5.00
OVERSEAS MEMBERSHIP* Add $10.00 a year to membership for added mailing costs
MBA PATCHES $2.50 each please send______patches DONATIONS
$_________________
PAYMENT TYPE Check
Money Order
Credit Card—
VISA
MASTERCARD
TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED _______________
Credit Card #________________________________ Exp. Date________ Signature__________________________________________ This is a gift membership from____________________________________________________________________________________
Montana
BOWHUNTER — 20 WWW.MTBA.ORG
L
one Rock Elementary school is located just outside of Stevensville and is one of the oldest schools in the state dating back to the 1800’s. The school receives a grant for an after-school program. At the program, the kids have the opportunity to participate in many activities including art, various games, crafts and archery. The program is staffed by volunteers and the kids can jump around and try the different stations. The program is invaluable in exposing kids to activities they may not otherwise get to try, and for those that have working parents; it gives them a safe and educational place to be until they get home from work. From my experience volunteering with the program and also teaching Bowhunter Ed, I know that when these kids get to the age to take Bowhunter Education that they are still into archery and bowhunting. The kids always let me know that they were there in the Lone Rock after-school program, and that’s where they got their start. Some of the bows the kids are holding belong to the MBA, and the rest of the equipment belongs to me. Other organizations like Cub Scouts and churches call, and I go to their gathering and teach the young people the fun and love of shooting bow and arrows. So, I get the kids from Missoula up and down the Bitterroot Valley. The first step to get kids interested in archery hunting is to get a bow in their hands.
Marlon Clapham COMMISSION MEMBERS E-mail Commissioners: fwpcomm@mt.gov District 1 Bob Ream, Chairman 521 Clarke Street Helena, MT 59601 (406) 461-3202
District 4 A.T. Stafne, Commissioner 8079 US Highway 2 Wolf Point, MT 59201 (406) 653-2881
District 2 Dan Vermillion, Vice-Chairman PO Box 668 Livingston, MT 59047 (406) 222-0624
District 5 Shane Colton, Commissioner 335 Clark Billings, MT 59101 (406) 259-9986
District 3 Ron Moody, Commissioner 109 Bach Avenue Lewistown, MT 59457 (406) 538-2698
Summer 2012
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BUSINESS & CLUB MEMBERS
Become a Business Member of the MBA and be listed on this page every issue! For membership visit www.mtba.org.
Active as of May 2012 24/7 MUSCLE AND FITNESS
Kelly Kimzey
ARCHERY CENTERS OF MONTANA
Lee Davis
ARCHER’S ROOST
Steven Battaglia
BACKCOUNTRY ARCHERY PROSHOP
435 South Atlantic
Dillon
MT
59725
406-925-3485
1212 Longstaff
Missoula
MT
59801
406-721-5537
PO Box 429
Hardin
MT
59034
406-672-5945
208 W Spruce St
Libby
MT
59923
406-293-8738
BE THE DECOY, LLC
Mark Renner
PO Box 5151
Bozeman
MT
59717
www.bethedeccoy.com
BIG SKY ARCHERY
William Farris
120 Pollywog Lane
Belgrade
MT
59103
www.bigskyarchery.com
BILLINGS ROD & GUN CLUB
William Bishop
P.O. Box 33
Belgrade
MT
59714
406-259-0006
BRUCE’S QUICKLUBE
Bruce Metcalf
1111 E Front St
Butte
MT
59701
406-782-6124 406-449-3111
BUFFALO JUMP ARCHERY
Judy Adams
2710 Broadwater Ave
Helena
MT
59602
CROWN PHOTOGRAPHY
M & L Layne
PO Box 9936
Kalispell
MT
59904 www.mtcrownphoto.com
DAHL WHOLESALE
Chris Dahl
PO Box 384
Drummond
MT
59832
406-449-1517
DR. CAMO
Don Stein
1625 Northern Heights Dr
Havre
MT
59501
406-265-8099
FIRST CLASS OUTDOORS, LLC
10 Grassy Flat Road
Roundup
MT
59072
661-317-0001
FIVE VALLEYS ARCHERY CLUB
PO Box 5083
Missoula
MT
59806
406-544-2169
1105 Spurgin Court
Missoula
MT
59804
406-327-4800
611 W 5th St
Hardin
MT
59034
160 Tamarack Drive
Kalispell
MT
59901
406-333-6613
1675 Shindig Dr
Missoula
MT
59808
406-599-1565
15275 Thayer Rpad
Lolo
MT
59847 www.kdesignmarketing.com
PO Box 781
Glendive
MT
59330
GARRAMONE BUILDERS
Don Garramone
HARDIN MIDDLE SCHOOL HAWK HAVEN CREATIONS
Robert Edmundson
HUNTING GPS MAPS.COM
Eric Siegfried
K DESIGN MARKETING, INC.
Sam & Kim Kinsinger
MAKOSHIKA BOWMEN
406-939-0697
MATABLAS GAME HUNTERS
Willem Frost
PO Box 1559
Lephalale, 0555 Africa South
27116794664
THE MEADOWLARK GALLERY
Gary Temple
118 North 29th Street
Billings
MT
59101
406-294-8575
PO Box 201201
Helena
MT
59620
1758 Three Mile Dr
Kalispell
MT
59901
406-756-5885
525 2nd Ave East
Kalispell
MT
59901
406-261-1479
PO Box 838
Polson
MT
59860
406-883-5778
2491 W 42nd St
Casper
WY
82604 www.pronghornbows.com
ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUNDATION David Allen
5705 Grant Creek Road
Missoula
MT
59808
406-523-4500
SIMMONS SHARKS
3312 Rome Lane
Stevensville
MT
59870
406-370-5311
115 Rocky Cliff Rd
Kalispell
MT
59901
406-756-5455
31345 Lost Creek Lane
Ronan
MT
59864
406-676-5150
276 Grantsdale Rd
Hamilton
MT
59840
406-363-2983
MONTANA HISTORICAL SOC LIBRARY MOUNTAIN TOP TRADITIONAL ARROWS
Rod Kelley
NORTHWEST CONVENTION SERVICES
George Johnson
POLSON AMBULANCE, INC.
Tim Brester, Eric Henslin
PRONGHORN CUSTOM BOWS
Herb Meland
Dave & Brandy Oligee
SPIRIT QUEST ARCHERY
Aaron Lasco
TOELKE TRADITIONAL ARCHERY
Dan Toelke
TRAILS END CUSTOM RECURVE BOW
Dale Dye
WESTERN TRAILER & MARINE SALES
Clyde Thomas, Jr.
1865 Hwy 2 E
Havre
MT
59501
406-265-4572
YELLOWSTONE BOWS
Rich Wormington
280 HWY 14A E
Lovell
WY
82431
307-548-6292
Howard Jaidinger
HC 1, Box 1730
Glennallen
AK
99588
907-522-3159
150 Painted Meadows
Butte
WY
59701
406-491-7473
PO Box 96
Richey
WY
59259
406-773-5509
James Bennett
Montana
BOWHUNTER — 22 WWW.MTBA.ORG
James Brown
NICK SIEBRASSE with a nice 4x4 whitetail Mark Baker with his last minute whitetail
GREG MUNTHER with a nice whitetail
JEFF DOLL - and a big ole carp!
3 -grizzlies - ROGER PEFFER provides us with some great camera work!
JUSTIN TRAEGER with a good breaks bull
STEVE TYKINSKI with a NICE farm buck SETH ROGERS - Nice turkey and we mean the bird!
BOB MORGAN with a damn nice speed goat
Summer 2012
23—
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
•
• • • •
•
•
•
•
•
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.
What can you do for the bowhunting in Montana? Join the MBA at www.mtba.org Mtoontana preserve, and protect bowhunting. — 24 WWW.MTBA.ORG BOWHUNTERpromote
Photos by Denver Bryan / Images on the Wildside
What the MBA has done for you?