Colorado Hunter 2015 by Steamboat Pilot & Today

2015 EDITION | A COMPLETE HUNTING GUIDE FOR WESTERN COLORADO | FREE

HUNTERS AND THEIR FAVORITE GEAR

CONSISTENT SUCCESS: 3 HUNTERS’ SECRETS

Herd Updates

PLUS: Everything you need to know: Business Directory, Fees, Dates and More!

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Granby 1001 Thompson Road 970-887-7140

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WELCOME

elcome to the 2015 issue of Colorado Hunter, the premier guide to big-game hunting in Western Colorado. We’re glad you chose our neck of the woods for your trip — you couldn’t have picked a better place for your hunting vacation. The region offers some of the best deer and elk hunting in the world, whether you’re pulling back a bow, packing your muzzleloader with powder or sighting in your scope. Whatever your big game fancy, whether it’s elk atop Grand Mesa, mule deer in Middle Park or moose near Walden, we hope you make Western Colorado your hunting destination for years to come. While the area offers countless, year-round recreational opportunities — as well as outstanding scenery, friendly locals and Old West charm — for hunters, the action kicks in every autumn when game migrates from the high country to its winter range.

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That’s when thousands of hunters migrate also, flocking to Grand Junction, Meeker, Rangely, Craig, Hayden, Steamboat Springs, Walden, Kremmling, Granby and Yampa to hunt some of the largest elk herds in the nation. Whether you fill your tag or not, the real reward comes in hunting one of the most beautiful locations in the country. Colorado Hunter is designed to make your hunt easier, whether you’re a novice hearing your first bugle or a seasoned pro looking for a record trophy. Inside these pages you’ll find tips on what to bring and where to go, information on herd updates, tales from local hunts, reader-submitted photos and a directory listing everything you need for your stay, from outfitters and guides to meat processors and more. We hope you have a great hunt and thanks again for visiting Western Colorado.

Editor Eugene Buchanan Colorado Hunter is published once per year by the Steamboat Pilot & Today and distributed free throughout Western Colorado. It is available online at ColoradoHunter.com For advertising information, call 970-875-1782 (Craig region); 970-871-4243 (Steamboat Springs region); 970-256-4289 (Grand Junction region). To get a copy mailed to your home, call Steve Balgenorth at 970-871-4232 or Gary Cole at 970-875-1785.

INSIDE FEATURES Welcome Message ......................................................... 12 Letter from Colorado Parks & Wildlife ............................ 14

SHORTSHOTS

What’s new for 2015, hunters and their favorite gear, how to hunt the wet spring, East vs. West, women hunters, fees and seasons, and more

THEHERDWORD

Voted Best Gift Shop in 2014 & 2015! Locally Owned - Open 7 days a week! (970) 824-2844 spiritpass@spiritpass.com

“Miracle” spring spells fantastic season, herd numbers for 2015, bear update, moose on the loose, and more

HOTSPOTS

Grand Junction, Meeker, Craig, Steamboat Springs, Kremmling, Granby; Plus: the low-down on shooting ranges, hunting Unit 2 and more

OUTFITTERS

Outfitter Profiles: Del’s Triangle 3 and Adams Lodge Outfitters

Elk Recipes .................................................................. 78 Fishing ......................................................................... 84

HUNTINGTALES

G-15 nanny goat bow hunt

SKILLSETS

Gifts & Souvenirs

Consistent success: 3 local hunters share their secrets, how to use rangefinders, safety and hunting tips, 5 classic elk recipes, avoiding violations and more

READERPHOTOS

104

HUNTINGDIRECTORY

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Northwest Colorado outfitters, Craig region businesses, Grand Junction region businesses, Steamboat Springs region businesses and Northwest Colorado visitor information

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2015 | colorado Hunter

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WILDLIFEUPDATE

A LETTER FROM COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE By Ron Velarde, NW regional manager, Colorado Parks and Wildlife

elcome to Colorado. We sincerely appreciate that you chose Colorado as your hunting destination. Keep in mind that Colorado Parks and Wildlife is always available to answer your questions and help you have a great hunt this year. Our state remains one of the premier hunting destinations in the country, and the Northwest Region once again offer tremendous Ron Velarde opportunities for big game hunters this fall CPW Northwest regional manager In this letter is a general overview that can help you plan; however, you must be prepared to adapt your strategies to sudden and drastic changes in weather conditions, road closures and other events that may affect your hunt. Remember, a hunt does not always end with a harvest. Spending time with friends and family in one of the most scenic areas of the country is a reward in and of itself; however, by doing your homework and adapting your strategies as needed, you can significantly increase your chances. There is a significant amount of public land in Northwest Colorado, allowing sportsmen plenty of hunting opportunities. With a good set of maps such as those at www.bit.ly/cohuntingatlas, www.huntdata.com or www.coloradohuntingmaps. com, or by using a GPS unit or even Google Earth, sportsmen can find a variety of hunting areas that will fit their needs. Remember that it is the sportsman’s responsibility to know private land boundaries. Never trespass onto private land. We urge all sportsmen to hunt carefully and legally. This not only helps you remain safe, it protects the species you’re hunting and demonstrates to the public that hunters are ethical and law-abiding. Remember, you are the best ambassador for the sport. During the rifle seasons, all hunters are required to wear 500 square inches of visible fluorescent orange garments (including any head covering), visible from 360 degrees. Placing a camouflage backpack over an orange vest or coat can minimize the visible orange and thus reduces your visibility. Visibility equals safety in the woods. Being 100 percent sure of your target before you shoot is critical and can help you

avoid serious accidents such as shooting the wrong animal, or worse. Always know the laws associated with hunting, including Hunter Education requirements, tagging procedures for a harvested animal and the proper methods of take. A variety of regulation brochures can be found at www.bit.ly/ yourbrochurescpw. Unfortunately, not everyone chooses to be responsible and ethical. If you see a wildlife violation occur, please call Operation Game Thief — a tip line for wildlife violations at 1-877-265-6648. You can find harvest stats, population objectives and general information in our NW Region Hunt Guide. Pick one up at a local CPW office, or download a PDF copy from our website at www.bit.ly/cpwhuntguides. In recent months, the region has received good moisture, leading to better than average forage conditions. Hunters should see healthy big game animals this fall. Elk Elk populations remain healthy and stable, and hunters have a good chance to see a good-sized bull. Population objectives have been met, and although license numbers are less robust than in previous years, some units have seen an increase in licenses to ensure they remain at objective. Keep in mind that Colorado remains the only state that offers an unlimited number of over-the-counter bull elk licenses during second and third rifle seasons, in addition to leftover licenses. Deer Although some areas have seen a slight increase this past year, most deer populations in the northwest remain significantly under objective, with the exception of Middle Park and the Upper Colorado River drainage areas, which remain above objective. For anyone who drew a deer license, plenty of opportunities remain to harvest a nice-sized buck this fall. (To address the decline in our deer herds, CPW engaged the public through various public meetings throughout 2014, letting sportsmen provide feedback and suggestions for addressing the decline. This led to the West Slope Mule Deer Strategy, a multi-faceted effort to stabilize the drop in the population. For more information, visit www.cpw.state.co.us/learn/ Pages/CO-WestSlopeMuleDeerStrategySummit.aspx.) Pronghorn antelope Antelope herds are also doing well and hunters who have drawn a license should find plenty of opportunities and be successful. Northwest Colorado has some of the highest antelope numbers on the Western Slope. Black bear Our bear populations have been growing, and there are more license opportunities now than ever before. Just keep in mind that hunting bear takes plenty of patience and some luck. Doing your homework should increase your chance of success. Keep in mind that a professional and friendly district wildlife manager manages every GMU. They are the experts and a great source of information. Feel free to ask them questions about the area you are hunting, regulations or anything else that can help make your hunt more enjoyable. To find the office nearest you, visit www. bit.ly/contactcpw. Finally, remember to have fun during your hunt. Enjoying the outdoors can be a great experience for an individual or a group and spending time with friends and family can provide memories that will last a lifetime. Northwest Colorado provides some of the most spectacular views and scenery anywhere in the country, and we wish you luck and hope you have a great hunt this year.

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Giveaway Win a 5-day mule deer hunt trip

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It is free to register for the Colorado Hunter 2015 Giveaway contest. Contest entry requires basic demographic information and participation in a 5-question survey about hunting in Northwestern Colorado. 2015 | colorado Hunter | 15

SHORTSHOTS JACK CASSIDY

40-YEAR OUTFITTER GETS SCI’S 2015 PRO HUNTER AWARD PHOTO BY DEAN HUMPHREY

By Dave Buchanan

fter nearly 40 years in the outfitting business, big-game outfitter Jack Cassidy of Loma may have seen just about everything. An original member and the first president of the Colorado Outfitters Association, Cassidy and his guides have hosted hunters from around the world while pursuing almost every huntable wildlife species in Colorado. As you’d expect, Cassidy has enough tales (ask him about riding a center pivot while archery hunting for elk) to fill more than one book. But one story will now likely top all the others. In February in Las Vegas, Cassidy was honored with Safari Club International’s North American Professional Hunter Award for 2015. This award, and its counterpart, the Commercial Hunter Award, are highly coveted awards because the prize honors professional hunters acknowledged by their peers and clients to be tops in their field. This is the first time, Cassidy says, that anyone from Colorado has won this award, even though Colorado outfitters are among the best in the business. “I’ve been doing this a long time, but I never thought I’d see the day I would get this award,” Cassidy says. “I didn’t think anyone from Colorado would win it.” It helps to have longevity in what is a difficult business, but as well as involvement with the hunting community and Safari Club. Cassidy, owner of Jack Cassidy Colorado Hunts, has been a longtime supporter of Safari Club, and he was especially praised for his involvement in the SCI Sensory Safari, a program designed to allow disabled children to experience the sights, sounds and sensations of wildgame animals. “The first time I participated was at the Safari Club convention in Detroit,” Cassidy says. “I was in charge of the elk demonstration, and when those buses pulled up, here came the kids — some blind, some in wheelchairs, some being helped by sponsors. “So a little girl wheeled up to me and ran her hands all over the elk mount, feeling its ears, nose and hide. I was supposed to bugle, to let her know what an elk sounded like, but I was crying so hard I couldn’t make a sound. I figured if that was the kind of outfit SCI was, I’d get involved for life. And I have.” Cassidy says much has changed in the 35 years he’s been outfitting, but the thrill of the hunt remains as strong as ever.

HUNT HUMOR 16 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

Jack Cassidy won the Professional Hunter of the Year award from Safari Club International.

“I’m 78, and I’m slowing down a bit, but I still love chasing wild animals,” he says. “I’d hate to be starting out in the business today; it’s so damn expensive. But I wouldn’t trade my time for anything.”

TWO HUNTERS Two hunters were dragging their dead deer back to their car. Another hunter approached pulling his. “Hey, I don’t want to tell you how to do something...but it’s much easier if you drag the deer in the other direction. Then the antlers won’t dig into the ground.” After the third hunter left, the two decided to try it. A while later one said to the other, “You know, that guy was right. This is a lot easier!” “Yeah, but we’re getting farther from the truck,” the other said.

WHAT THEY WEAR

By Eugene Buchanan

BOB BRASSELL At 62, Bob Brassell has been muzzleloading since he first moved to Steamboat Springs from Santa Fe, New Mexico, 37 years ago. A gunsmith at Elk River Guns, he’s bagged nine elk with his vintage-era muzzleloader and a similar number of deer. He’s also used it to bring down pronghorn and even a moose. He also has more medals than you can count from local International Muzzleloading Biathlon competitions, which he’s co-organized in Steamboat for nearly 25 years. While he also rifle and bow hunts, if he had his druthers he’d pack his own powder any day. “I love it,” he says, noting that the pictured traditional garb isn’t what he hunts in today. “It’s a great time of year because it’s not as cold, and you see way fewer people. Plus, the animals are less disturbed and it’s easier to get close. My average shot is about 40 yards.”

Bandana 5 “This works great for everything, from serving as a sun shield to getting blood off my hands and washing my face and dishes. You can also use it as a bandage. “

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Linen shirt 6 “This is a replica period shirt from the late 1700s. It has elk ivories for decoration and pleated arms for easy movement. That’s how they made them back then.”

Knife 1 “Most mountain men were after fur, so they use this for skinning. It’s a Remington 41010, and I’ve had it for 25 years. I found the sheath at a gun show, then went out and found a knife that fit it.” Flint lock 2 “This is a replica of an early model Hawken that I custom built. It’s 54 caliber and shoots a round lead ball as ammo. It took about two years to build in my spare time and I finished it about 10 years ago.” Wool Capote 3 “They made the original ones out of Hudson Bay blankets, but those are too expensive to cut up so my wife and I made this one by cutting up an old wool blanket. You’ll see a lot of these if you go to a buckskinning event.”

Hat 4 “I bought this at the online store Track of the Wolf. The medal hanging from it is a first-place award from a muzzleloading biathlon event. I don’t know what year it’s from. I have a chest full of them.”

Powder horn 7 “Many of these today are made out of metal, but I made this one out of a steer horn because it’s cheaper. It’s a dry container to carry your powder. In the frontier days, they used horns because of their durability and accessibility. Some of their scrimshaw is an important part of early American folk art.” Possibles bag 8 “They use this to carry ammo and anything else you’d need on the trail, from knives and firestarter to gloves and more. Also inside is a wooden loading block, otherwise known as a speed loader or ‘mountain man high capacity magazine,’ cleaning equipment, powder measure and gear for clearing misfires. This one’s made from brain-tanned leather. My wife gave it to me 30 years ago.”

PHOTO BY JOHN F. RUSSELL 2015 | colorado Hunter

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SHORTSHOTS

3 HUNTERS SHARE THEIR FAVORITE GEAR

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BRENDAN DORAN A hunting guide, ski instructor and local rancher,

2-piece jacket/pants 1 “I got this Columbia package 25 years ago. It’s a size or two big so I can add layers when it’s cold. It’s not lined and is made from washable wool, though I only wash it at the end of each season. It then gets put away in a giant ziplock bag filled with sage brush so it smells like where we hunt.”

Silk scarf 7 “I use this because you lose a lot of heat out of your collar and neck. Plus, it’s easy to remove if you get hot, and you can use it for first aid.”

Watch 8 “This is a simple waterproof Luminox watch, but it glows in the dark, which is great. You can see it easily.” 4

Gloves 9 “These are basic Kinko and they’re warm and comfortable. I buy them two sizes too big so I can throw them off easily to shoot. I don’t like to shoot a gun with anything on my hands.”

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Pack 10 “This is a camo CamelBak day pack that carries 100 ounces of water. I’ve had it for 10 years. I use it to carry a small first aid kit, tools and supplies if I have to stay out the night like fire starter, a space blanket and head lamp. It always amazes me how many people don’t bring headlamps. Another key ingredient is surveyor’s tape so you can mark where you’ve been.”

Gun 3 “This is a Browning A-Bolt 7mm caliber with a 4.5x14 Zeiss scope. It was handed down to me in my family, and I’ve had it for over 20 years. It’s a great gun.” Ammo 4 “I shoot 139-grain Hornady SST ammo. It’s the lightest bullet they make. It shoots farther and faster with less drop for the long-range shots we get in Colorado. When guiding, I always see too many people show up with heavier bullets that don’t work as well out here.” Boots 5 “These are simple, size 11 Danner Elk Hunter boots, with 400 grams of Thinsulite insulation, which keeps them warm. I only wear them during hunting season, and they’re 25 years old. The leather laces are the only ones I had.”

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PHOTO BY JOHN F. RUSSELL

THREE’S COMPANY A duck, a skunk and a deer went out for dinner at a restaurant one night. When it came time to pay, the skunk didn’t have a scent, the deer didn’t have a buck, so they put the meal on the duck’s bill.

HUNT HUMOR 2015 | colorado Hunter

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SHORTSHOTS

Brendan Doran, 36, jumped into hunting as easily as he did ski jumping, which he represented the U.S. in at both the 1998 and 2002 Olympics. As gifted on skis as he is sighting in a scope, he’s been hunting since he was a child roaming the hills of Routt County and knows the area woods as well as anyone. “There aren’t a lot of places in the world where you can go out and see as many species as you can here.”

Binos 2 “These are Leopolds, with 10x32 magnification. They’re a little on the compact side but still powerful. I got them from Craig Sports 15 years ago, and they’ve worked great ever since.”

Hat 6 “This one is a Stormy Kromer. It’s made from wool and is super warm. The original design came from the wife of a semi-pro baseball player-turned railroad engineer named George Kromer. She put ties on the ear flaps over the forehead so it wouldn’t blow off on the train. It’s my second one. I had one just like it that I wore since I was 13 until a DOW officer said the orange was too faded to wear anymore.”

SHORTSHOTS

BILL VAN NESS Bill Van Ness grew up on a corn and tomato farm in the East and began archery hunting when he was 12. He killed his first deer when he was 13 and says “it’s been stirring my soul ever since.” Moving to Steamboat Springs 20 years ago, he’s bowhunted for every big game species Colorado has to offer, harvesting elk, mule deer, bear, mountain lion, antelope, bighorn sheep and mountain goat. Still on the list, he says, are moose, whitetail deer and desert bighorn. “Archery hunting gets me close to the primal root of our existence,” he says. “And it’s a fantastic time of year to be in the mountains.” Hat 1 “This is a simple merino wool hat from Sitka Gear. I like it because it wicks moisture really well and is super warm.”

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3 5

Pack 2 “This is a Flash 32, also from Sitka. It’s my go-to pack for day hunts and carries everything I need, from survival gear to bone saws. If I get an elk down, I can haul the first quarter out of the woods with it.” Binos 3 “The ones around my neck are Swarovski 10x42s. I’ve had them for eight years, and they’re great, European quality. It’s the one piece of gear I treat like a child. The ones on the tripod are a Vortex Kaibab 15x56. I’ve had them for three years, and they work great for picking a hillside apart from as far as three-quarters of a mile.”

Tripod 4 “You need a tripod to get the full high power benefit of your binos. Otherwise, subtle shaking makes the extra power useless. This one is a high-quality tripod from Davis and Sanford, which you can find at a camera store. I used it with my 15-power binos last fall to take a great photo of a bull elk that was easily a mile away.” Two-piece camo suit 5 “I got this from Gore-tex’s Sitka Gear and love it. It’s made from their quick-dry Windstopper material. Its Optifade Open Country camo pattern is scientifically designed around how ungulates view the world. It actually tricks their eyes into not viewing the hunter as a predator. It’s designed for engagement at 35 meters and beyond, which is optimal for our region’s spot and stalk hunting. It’s also impregnated with Polygiene, which prevents the growth of odorcausing bacteria.” Boots 6 “I go pretty simple. These are Salomon Goretex winter running shoes. They’re lightweight and comfortable. They also let you feel the terrain really well. I’m not a big fan of heavy boots.” 20 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

PHOTO BY JOHN F. RUSSELL

Bow 7 “This is a Hoyt compound Nitrum Turbo. I just got it, and it performs flawlessly. It’s designed for super smooth shooting while also shooting very fast. It has a 350-foot-per-second IBO. It’s good for everything from rabbits to moose.”

Arrows 8 “These are Eastons and known as a full metal jacket. They have a carbon middle with aluminum casing outside for stiffness. They also have a super small diameter. I practice with them out to 100 yards, which makes that 40-yard shot seem easier.”

Flash gaiters 9 “I never wore gaiters until a few years ago, but these are great. They’re about 6 inches high, zip up and keep sticks and other debris out. They’re also made from a type of silent canvas so animals can’t hear your legs rubbing together.”

WHAT’S NEW FOR 2015 Youth hunting Two regulation changes affect youth hunting this year, expanding youth opportunity to hunt. First, youths get at least 15 percent of the limited licenses in every GMU for doe pronghorn, antlerless and eithersex deer and antler-less elk. This includes all methods of take and all seasons, including early and late rifle seasons. Youths also no longer have to wait to hunt during a late season. Youths may purchase their original tag to hunt deer or elk; if the season on their license ends and they haven’t harvested an animal, they can still hunt in expanded areas during any of the rifle seasons. Landowner voucher program All previous versions of landowner preference have been replaced with the new Landowner Preference Program. All landowners and hunters using vouchers must follow the new statutes and regulations. Licenses CPW is holding separate on-sale days this year so plan ahead. Over-the-counter and over-the-counter with caps licenses go on sale at 9 a.m. July 21. Leftover licenses go on sale at 9 a.m. Aug. 4 and at midnight Aug. 5 online. Deer Boundaries for select private-land archery hunts in unit 41 have been expanded. New hunts have been added for does in units 55 and 551, as well as a new fourth-rifle buck hunt in unit 201 and more fourthrifle buck season licenses available in Gunnison Basin units. Archery accessories Archers may now use lighted nocks on arrows,

HUNTING SEASONS

which can help aid in recovery of game animals. New rules are also in place that allow recording devices to be mounted on a bow. Williams Fork The Ranching For Wildlife program at Williams Fork Ranch has ended. Hunts are no longer available through this program. Antlers New restrictions are in place for collecting shed antlers certain times of the year. This helps minimize disturbance of animals on their winter range in the Eagle and Roaring Fork valleys. Dog retrieval Regulations are in development to allow hunters to retrieve some wounded animals with dogs. This is anticipated to go into effect before the 2015 big-game hunting season. Pronghorn muzzleloading To be consistent with other species dates, the pronghorn muzzleloader season has been moved to Sept. 21 to 29. New moose units Bull moose hunts in units 44 and 45 in the Eagle River watershed and cow hunts in the southwest units of 66 and 67 are among the new moose hunts available this year. Bear/concurrent rifle season There are numerous changes to how and when you can hunt bear during rifle elk and deer seasons. New rules expand your time in the field and the ability to harvest a bear. The archery season has also been extended to Sept. 30 to increase hunter success. Maps The U.S. Forest Service and BLM have combined their map center into one location at the Public Maps Information Center, 2850 Youngfield St., Lakewood, CO 80215; 303-239-3600, www.fs.usda.gov/detail/r2/ recreation/?cid=stelprd3794715. Muzzleloading ■ Deer/Elk/Moose — Sept. 12 to 20 ■ Black Bear (over-the-counter with caps) — Sept. 12 to 20 ■ Pronghorn — Sept. 21 to 29

Archery ■ Deer/Elk — Aug. 29 to Sept. 27 ■ Pronghorn; bucks only — Aug. 15 to 31 ■ Pronghorn; either sex —Sept. 1 to 20 Rifle ■ Black Bear (over-the-counter with caps) — Sept. 2 to 30 ■ Black Bear; limited (by draw) — Sept. 2 to 30 ■ Moose — Sept. 12 to 27 ■ Moose — Oct. 1 to 14

SHORTSHOTS

hat’s new for hunting in western Colorado this year? Plenty, affecting everything from license sales to youth hunting options. We checked in with Colorado Parks & Wildlife for changes to put on your radar.

2015 LICENSE FEES ($10 2015 Habitat Stamp required) Subtract $3 for over-the-counter Deer — Draw (limited) ■ Resident — $34 ■ Youth resident — $13.75 ■ Non-resident (with fishing) — $364 ■ Youth non-resident (with fishing) — $103.75 Elk — Draw (limited) ■ Resident — $49 ■ Youth resident — $13.75 ■ Non-resident bull/either sex (with fishing) — $619 ■ Non-resident cow (with fishing) — $461 ■ Non-resident either sex — $616 ■ Youth non-resident (with fishing) — $100.75 Pronghorn —Draw (limited) ■ Resident — $34 ■ Youth resident — $13.75 ■ Non-resident — $374 ■ Youth non-resident — $103.75

Bear — Draw (limited) ■ Resident — $44 ■ Non-resident — $354 Moose — Draw (limited) ■ Resident — $254 ■ Non-resident — $2,064

*Non-resident fishing licenses are good through March 31, 2016. Prices include a 25-cent searchand-rescue fee, a 75-cent surcharge for the Wildlife Management Education Fund and a $3 application fee for limited licenses applied for in the draw.

Pronghorn; draw — Oct. 3 to 9 Limited Elk; first season — Oct. 10 to 14 ■ Deer/Elk; second season — Oct. 17 to 25 ■ Deer/Elk; third season — Oct. 31 to Nov. 8 ■ Deer/Elk; fourth season — Nov. 11 to 15 ■ Black Bear (over-the-counter with caps) — concurrent with deer/elk rifle seasons ■ ■

2015 | colorado Hunter

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SHORTSHOTS

WET SPRING INFLUENCES HEALTHY HERDS, BUT LIMITED VISIBILITY

By Eugene Buchanan

s recently as last April, hunters were facing the possibility of a severe drought affecting this year’s game populations. What a difference a month can make. In May, Northwest Colorado, from the rolling plains of Grand Junction to the mountains of Steamboat Springs and Middle Park, experienced record rainfall, boosting area snowpack and foraging opportunities for game. “The weather is always the big unknown when it comes to how animals fare,” says Brad Petch, CPW’s northwest senior wildlife biologist. “Hard winters have a much more dramatic effect on populations than drought does. Without this year’s rains in May, area herds would’ve been in big drought conditions.” This year’s weather pattern was as far-reaching as any he has seen, spelling similar conditions throughout Northwest Colorado. “This was as general a weather pattern as we’ve seen in recent years, from a low snowfall winter to a wet spring,” Petch says. “Everything north of Interstate 70 looks pretty homogenous in terms of the good news.” But what does all this early moisture mean for hunters, apart from healthy herds? For one, even though there may be more animals, they’ll likely be harder to spot.

HUNT HUMOR 22 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

“There is a lot of forage making for healthy herds, but the visibility may not be as good this year,” Petch says. “It’s going to be hard to see game this year, especially if they’re bedded down. The foliage is pretty high.” Petch adds that this will affect everyone from archers looking for a close shot to rifle hunters sighting in at longer distances. “It’s going to decrease the ability to sight animals in at long distance,” Petch says. “Animals will be able to bed down and hide this year pretty easily.” Grand Junction area wildlife manager JT Romatzke adds that all that growth, with its knee-high grasses and verdant shrubs, will likely spread the animals out instead of consolidating them in certain locations, also making it hard on hunters. “There’s lots of forage, which means great opportunities for hunters,” he says. “But at the same time, it might also be a bit tougher for folks because those animals will be scattered all over the place.” CPW Southwest Region terrestrial biologist Scott Wait agrees, but adds there’s a bright side to the harder hunting as well. “There is certainly a lot of forage, so elk and deer will be scattered everywhere, making hunting difficult,” he says. “But they should be in great condition.”

RELIGIOUS SKUNKS

Two skunks observed a deer hunter sneaking through the woods with a rifle. “I hope he’s not going to shoot at us,” said one skunk. The second skunk bowed his head and said, “Let us spray.”

2015 | colorado Hunter

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24 | visit www.cohunter.com for more

2015 | colorado Hunter

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SHORTSHOTS

BEGINNER’S LUCK CRAIG YOUTH CLAIM FIRST BUCKS

By Andy Bockelman

unting has been a way of life for 12-year-olds Tiana Nichols and Blake Juergens for quite some time, even before they were allowed to register for the sport. In their first year being able to fully enjoy the pastime, they nailed it. Nichols and Juergens both harvested their first deer during last year’s second season, and neither had to travel too far to do so. For Nichols, the experience was on the property of some family friends in rural Moffat County, in a spot that was well stocked with hoofed residents, much to the delight of her and her father, Gary. “By the time we got to the blind, there was already a deer coming into the field,” she says. Although there were some nerves involved, she downed the 4x4 buck easily, having notched plenty of shooting proficiency growing up in a hunting family, eagerly awaiting the day when she would be able to pull the trigger. For Juergens, the site was at Trapper Mine. She was

able to get on the land thanks to his grandfather’s former employment there. “It has wide options,” he says. “You know where to find does or big bucks, and we have a little secret area where we go.” Juergens claimed his own kill, a 6x6 buck, at the location. “I’m probably never going to get one that big the rest of my life,” he adds. Both Nichols and Juergens said this will hopefully be the first of many trophy animals they see, coming to appreciate the importance of the timing involved in hunting, the early rising, and above all, the patience it can take. “You can’t go to the deer, you’ve gotta have them come to you,” Juergens says. Top: Blake Juergens, 12, proudly displays a buck he downed during a family hunting trip in October. Juergens claimed the animal near Trapper Mine as part of his first time as an official hunter. Bottom: Tiana Nichols, 12, holds her buck up by the antlers during a hunting trip in late October. Nichols claimed her first kill as a first time registered hunter.

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XX CHROMOSOME

By Dale Shrull

unting big game isn’t just for the guys anymore. “There are definitely more women hunters these days,” says Kathleen Tadvick, education director for Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s northwest region. “It

hasn’t always been a tradition to bring women along. If they were invited, oftentimes it was expected for them to stay in camp.” According to CPW, more than 2,500 of 2013’s 31,600 resident rifle elk hunters were women. The largest demographic for them was in the 26 to 35 age group with 673, followed by 537 female hunters in the 36 to

45 age group. To help further attract female hunters, CPW offers several female-specific education opportunities. Its Mesa County Cast and Blast workshop teaches women about fly-fishing and shotgun shooting. At this year’s program, several women say they found it a refreshing learning opportunity. “It was a lot more accurate being taught by a woman,” Grand Junction’s Chris Erwin says. During the seminar, Tadvick taught attendees how to find their dominant eye for shooting and how to size a gun properly. She also told them to utilize their hips when shooting. “We have these hips for a reason,” Tadvick told them. “Use them.” Tadvick says the women-only workshops are popular because attendees bond. “Women love to take the course with other women, instead of having their husbands or significant others here,” Tadvick says. “They can just learn, then go back confidently and give it a try.” Attendee Donna Aubert says she has been shooting guns while working on area ranches for years, but at the women-led shooting seminar, she learned even more. “My stance was completely wrong before,” she says. “They also showed me how to fit a gun for me. I always had guys just hand me one, and it was the wrong size.” Participant Mary Lou Wetherstein also says the seminar was worth it. “It was very eye-opening and educational,” she says. “It was comfortable because we were all women trying to learn together.” Making women more comfortable in the hunting environment was the focus, Tadvick says. “More couples are getting out hunting,” she says. “It’s become a generational change.” Even though the Cast and Blast features shotgun shooting, it still educates women about safely using guns. And Tadvick is excited to see more women experiencing the outdoors. “To enjoy hunting,” she says, “means they’re getting out there and enjoying wildlife in general.”

PHOTO BY JOHN DEPALMA Women and wildlife: To help further attract female hunters, CPW offers several woman-specific education classes. 2015 | colorado Hunter

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SHORTSHOTS

CPW PROGRAMS GET MORE WOMEN INVOLVED

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WEST

SHORTSHOTS

VS. EAST

By Lauren Blair

he Celtics vs. the Lakers. The Appalachians vs. the Rockies. The Atlantic vs. the Pacific. There are a lot of differences between back East and out West. Following are a few of the differences when it comes to hunting in the Centennial State. Counting antlers It’s a little different than it is back East. In Colorado, a deer or elk with four points on each antler is a four-point, says Colorado Parks and Wildlife volunteer manager Windi Padia, whereas the same animal would be called an eight-point in the East. It’s also standard practice back East to count the brow tines in the total number of points, whereas in Colorado they’re typically not counted on deer but on elk. Open space With 23 million acres of public lands and the largest elk herds in North America, there’s more room to roam and more game to hunt. Colorado also has 30 state parks that offer hunting. “There’s just a lot more opportunity here,” says CPW public information officer Mike Porras. Over-the-counter bulls Hunt in Colorado and you can get an over-the-counter bull elk license, which lets out-of-state hunters immediately buy a license to hunt bull elk during the second and third rifle seasons. “No other state in the country does that,” Porras says. Diversity Besides elk, Colorado is home to mule deer, whitetail deer, antelope, moose, turkeys, bears and mountain lions, as well as many other small game and birds available to hunters. “The choice hunters have here compared to other states is huge,” Padia says. “It’s just a matter of picking when and where you want to go.” Prized units Colorado has certain prized units that require decades worth of preference points to draw a tag. “For many, drawing a license in some of the limited units is the Holy Grail,” Padia says. Elevation You’re not in Kansas, or even Georgia, any more. Hunting in Western Colorado means you’re usually a mile and a half high in elevation, if not more, so plan accordingly. Drink plenty of water, rest often and don’t go too high too quickly.

2015 | colorado Hunter

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PHOTO BY JOHN F. RUSSELL

SHORTSHOTS

The TALON team at their gun grip headquarters in Steamboat Springs.

GET A GRIP TALON GRIPS BRINGS TRACTION TO GUNS

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By Eugene Buchanan

hile you’ll hear the boom of firearms in area hills this hunting season, business at one local company is booming for products that help hunters grip their guns. Steamboat Springs-based TALON Grips targets everyone from hunters to law enforcement officers and other gun users who desire enhanced grip for their firearms, and sales are quickly gaining the traction of its products. “We never could have imagined it would grow so quickly,” says company President Mike Morris. The company got its start when a boat sheriff on Lake Powell noted that sweaty hands made for slippery firearms. So he decided to improve his gun’s traction by covering it with the grip tape often used on skateboards. The singlepiece wraparound adhesive design has now blossomed into a business offering 126 different gun model grips in two textures, with 75 U.S. retailers and three international distributors. TALON Grips ships its products all over the world, with customers, many of them hunters, able to install the grips themselves in just minutes. “Hunters are our core customers,” says TALON marketing director Adam Spector. “They know the benefits of a positive grip on a firearm. When hunting, especially out here in the Rocky Mountains, you’re exposed to adverse conditions, which is where our grips really shine.” As well as providing grips for hunters, the company also supplies gun grips for law enforcement and the military, as well as competitive and recreational shooters. Morris, who spent six years in the U.S. Army Reserves while finishing school, says he owes it all to his employees, a wide-ranging consultant team and the perfect location to base such a business. “Northwest Colorado is our home,” says Morris. “We’d much rather live in the mountains than anywhere else. The mountain lifestyle, opportunities to raise a family and friends and community are hard to beat.”

RANCHING FOR WILDLIFE SHORTSHOTS

sssh! Here’s one of Colorado’s best kept hunting secrets. For residents seeking to avoid the expense of guides, outfitters or access fees, more than a million acres of prime private wildlife habitat is open to the public on a limited basis under the state’s Ranching for Wildlife program. Licenses for these private land hunts, available only to residents, cost the same as any public land hunting license. But this makes them popular and hard to get. Trophy hunters have to wait years to get enough preference points—up to 15 for a bull elk or a buck deer on some ranches. Doe and cow elk hunters need fewer points but are subject to the luck of the draw. Hunters seeking licenses to hunt on a Ranching for Wildlife property must plan ahead, since these licenses are available only through the big game license draw. The payoff is quality hunting on a private ranch with a 65 to 95 percent success rate. Initiated in 1985, Ranching for Wildlife is limited to ranches with at least 12,000 contiguous acres that contain a significant number of species for which licenses can be drawn—elk, deer, pronghorn, bear, turkey, moose and bighorn sheep. The program now encompasses more than 24 ranches. Participating landowners must have an acceptable management plan to improve wildlife habitat on their properties. Some ranches make special contributions to managing threatened and endangered species. Others have dedicated significant perpetual conservation easements. Many provide youth hunting opportunities, special public seasons, and they offer exceptional services to public hunters. All ranches must provide free public access to hunters who draw a limited license for the property. Case in point: Wolf Mountain Ranch, a 25,000acre working ranch north of Hayden offering some of Northwest Colorado’s most pristine hunting acreage. In 2009, the ranch teamed up with CPW’s Ranching for Wildlife program through Vanatta Outfitters. Of the ranch’s acreage, 16,000 acres is available for hunting. The program allows the land owners and outfitters to receive a guaranteed number of tags based upon the quantities of game on the ranch. With these tags comes a 90-day hunting

season window. The number of licenses issued on these ranches and the season dates are determined through negotiations between the landowner and CPW, with 10 to 20 percent of the male licenses and 100 percent of the female licenses allocated to the public. In return, landowners receive 80 to 90 percent of the male licenses issued for their properties, for which they can charge hunters fees to access the land. They also are allowed up to 90 days to hold their hunts. Both the public and the private seasons can start earlier and run later in the year than regular rifle seasons. Ranching for Wildlife coordinator Jerry Apker says some ranches with resident herds manage their big game populations to increase the age and size of their animals, offering true trophy hunts. Other ranches simply play host to migrating herds usually under little hunting pressure. “An advantage is that we get a female animal harvest on private land where without Ranching for Wildlife we probably wouldn’t get much at all,” says Apker. “That helps us meet our management objectives.” Licenses issued for these ranches can only be used on the specified ranch. The public hunters are given the same access to the private property as those who

SHORT SEASON On the first day of the deer hunting season, a hunter fell out of a deer stand and broke both his legs. “Why couldn’t this happen on my last day of hunting?!” the hunter cried to the doctor. “It did,” the doctor replied.

pay a fee. Wildlife managers and the landowners, however, often work out additional conditions to spread hunting pressure and to relieve concerns about security and liability. “Hunting on these ranches is a privilege, and public hunters need to respect the ranch rules for hunting,” Apker says. “That means closing gates, safeguarding livestock and sticking to designated hunting areas. Above all, public hunters should never forget that they’re hunting for a fraction of the fee they’d pay as a private hunting guest. Their behavior may determine whether the landowner stays in the program.” Successful applicants receive information on ranch rules well before their hunts. Each hunter is usually allowed to bring one non-hunting companion. Each must sign a liability release and check in and check out with the landowner. Hunters may have to camp on adjoining public land or secure lodging in the nearest town. More than 3,000 Ranching for Wildlife licenses are available each year, with most recipients maintaining it’s well worth the wait. The Ranching for Wildlife website (cpw/state.co.us/bg/rfw) lists the number of public licenses issued per ranch, the number of preference points needed and hunter success rates for the previous year.

HUNT HUMOR 2015 | colorado Hunter

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THE VANATTA BROTHERS SHORTSHOTS

LONGTIME GUIDES ARE HUNTERS TO THE CORE

By Teresa Ristow

unting has been a family affair for Steamboat brothers Lonny and Dirk Vanatta since childhood, and they’ve made a business out of the sport for nearly 30 years, guiding for Vanatta Outfitters in Routt County. Owner and guide Lonny, 58, and his younger brother and fellow guide Dirk, 46, spend two-and-ahalf months every fall leading back-to-back hunting trips on a 25,000-acre ranch north of Hayden. Their priorities don’t change in the offseason, when the brothers spruce up their hunting camps, gather shed antlers and squeeze in a little time to hunt for pleasure.

“It seems like that’s about all we do,” says Lonny. “I can’t imagine doing anything else.” We caught up with them in a rare moment between scouting, scoping and skinning. Colorado Hunter: What was it like growing up in Northwest Colorado? Dirk Vanatta: We were both born and raised in Steamboat, and I just like the small town atmosphere, where everyone knows everyone. Lonny Vanatta: Our grandparents grew up just outside of town, but we grew up right in Steamboat, and we both just love the outdoors. We both grew up hunting and fishing, and it’s a great town to enjoy that in.

PHOTO BY JOHN F. RUSSELL Brothers in arms: Dirk (left) and Lonny Vanatta have made hunting their business for 30 years. 32 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

CH: How did you get started hunting? LV: We grew up hunting with our dad and family and friends, and it was pretty much a way of life when we were young. We set up camps with friends and family, and we all hunted together. It continued to be a part of our lives as we grew up and still is. DV: We’re the only two brothers, but I think we’re more into hunting now than any other family members. We grew up hunting grouse and small game together, and as we got older, we got more big animals. CH: What are your hunting trips like? LV: We spend all fall on big game hunts. We usually have two hunters per guide and about eight hunters

per week. We get a variety of people, some bringing their boys, on up to 80-yearolds. On most trips, the two of us are out there together. DV: A lot of people are on their first elk hunts, but some have been hunting for years. And we become lifelong friends with some of them. I’ve also taken my 13-year-old daughter Jordan hunting. She got her first elk last year with one shot.

SHORTSHOTS

CH: Any brotherly competition when you’re out hunting together? DV: No, not really. LV: All of our guides are really helpful toward each other, so there’s no competition at all. Everyone shares information. We want our hunters to succeed. We’re all after the biggest trophy we can find, but there’s no competition at all, which isn’t necessarily true with every family or company out there. DV: But there’s always something to be learned from one another, even after 30 years. CH: What else do you like to do together? DV: We like to go out shed antler hunting in the spring. Then, we make a big pile in the garage. LV: It’s fun. We also spend a lot of time working on our hunting camp in the summertime. CH: What’s your most memorable hunt together? LV: Some of our really memorable trips have been hunting some of the trophy areas in Brown’s Park. We definitely like hunting for trophies more than we do younger animals. Those trips are always pretty special for us. We have a lot of long days, and we work hard, but when we get into the woods and hear that first elk bugle in the morning, it makes our job all worth it. We like it during the rut, when the fall leaves are turning. It’s just a special time to be outdoors and in the woods. DV: My favorite trips have been in September — my favorite month of the year. It’s not only because of the colors, but the elk are bugling, and I never get tired of that sound.

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The Flat Tops Wilerness area is the second largest wilderness area in Colorado Year designated: 1975 Hunting areas: 24, 25, 12, 26, 33, 34

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PROGRAMS SHINE

By Andy Bockelman

f you’re hunting in western Colorado, know that local hunting associations are in good standing. Safari Club International’s Yampa Valley Chapter was recently recognized as

2014 Chapter of the Year at Safari Club’s annual convention in Las Vegas.

the project, which has been part of their work nearly every year since its inception seven years ago. “The rewarding part is how they get themselves addressed to the real world again and the injuries they overcome,” says club President Karl Huntsman, who adds that the club brought in around $20,000 at its most recent annual fundraiser.

The local contingency of the club was singled out as being exemplary among

Besides the guided hunts, the chapter also supports the local 4-H Club and helps

chapters with a membership of 25 to 50 people, but that wasn’t its only honor. A

put together events like the summer Cast n’ Blast and the Lorna Farrow Memorial

certificate of appreciation from SCI and the Armed Forces was in store for Yampa

Shoot in Steamboat Springs. Board member Scott Moore says he’d also like to see

Valley Chapter’s project of providing guided hunts for disabled veterans.

the organization branch out and work with groups like Colorado Department of

Group members most recently aided in the process of guided hunts during the 2014 antelope season. The chapter received the same honor the year before for

Wildlife and the Mule Deer Foundation to achieve the Safari Club goals. “We can join together and accomplish something on a bigger scale,” he says.

BOW SIGNAL Two hunters decide to separate to increase their chances. “What if we get lost?” says one. “Fire three shots up in the air, every hour on the hour,” says the other. “I saw it on TV.” Sure enough, one of the hunters gets lost, so he fires three shots up into the air every hour on the hour. The next day the other hunter finds his friend with the help of the ranger. “Did you do what I said?” he asked. “Yes, but then I ran out of arrows.”

HUNT HUMOR

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SHORTSHOTS

LOCAL SAFARI CLUB CHAPTER RECEIVES ACCOLADES

western colorado

Hunting ProPerties MOFFAT COUNTY • Skull Creek Parcels

35 acres $29,700 / 11 acres $19,700 • Pinion/Juniper, Rock Cliffs, Dinosaur Bones, Elk Migration Route • Close to Dinosaur Nat’l Monument, Yampa River • Adjacent to BLM Game Management Unit 10 & Skull Creek Wilderness Study Area • 20 miles east of Dinosaur, CO, off of County Rd 95

GLADE PARK • 5931 DS Road $525,000 • 4.77 Acres bordered by BLM • Located in Colorado Hunting Unit 40 • 3846 sq. ft. with 8 bedrooms & 4 full baths • Abundance of wildlife & views • Perfect for the outdoorsman

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• 1536 SF, 3 BR + office, 1 BA vacation home at Vega Reservoir with great fishing & hunting • .32 acre lot • 3 decks with gorgeous views of the lake! • Roof new in 2006 (30 year) & exterior freshly painted in 2015 • Near road that is maintained year round LINDA SPARKS • 970-260-5229 COLDWELL BANKER DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

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• 4 BR, 2 BA hill top home with 360˚ view • Large kitchen w/room for pellet or wood stove • Home is in great condition with over sized 3 car garage + workshop • 40 acres to roam near great recreation on the Grand Mesa & views of Powderhorn MARY KRUSE • 970-210-5026 HEIDEN HOMES REALTY & ASSOCIATES

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• Two 35-acre parcels at high elevation • $55,000 per parcel or $100,000 for both • Spectacular views of San Juan Mountains, Arizona, New Mexico & Utah • A great location for a Colorado mountain home in prime elk hunting territory MIKE MORAN • 970-270-6162 HEIDEN HOMES REALTY & ASSOCIATES

• Unparalleled Hunting & Recreational getaway on 72 acres • 800+ SF, 2 story cabin with panoramic views • Perfect Mountain Hunting retreat • Quick access to all of Northwest Colorado’s Prime Elk, Deer, & Antelope Hunting! ANNETTE HEJL • 970-846-3594 STEVE NOVACK • 970-846-3060 COLDWELL BANKER DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES 19298

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Hunting ProPerties PAONIA • TBD FS 710 Road $1,500,000 • Gorgeous/Private 500+/- mtn. acres • Beautiful log cabin, plus a 2nd cabin • Creek, trout pond, springs • Borders Gunnison National Forest • Excellent Big Game hunting, GMU 53 • Views, wildlife, & privacy BRIAN MASON • 970-234-3167 MASON REAL ESTATE, INC.

LOMA • TBD Petro Lewis Road $320,000 • Beautiful & Scenic 160+/- acres • Bordered on 3 sides by BLM – Bookcliffs • Pinyons, oaks, mtn. meadows • Big Game hunting in GMU 30 • Wildlife, views, & privacy HB MASON • 970-314-3326 MASON REAL ESTATE, INC.

GLADE PARK • Lot 41 Red Creek Ranch $249,000 • Pristine & Very Private 35.20+/- acres • Beautiful homesite, electric & phone • Gated Community – Borders BLM • Wildlife paradise with elk, deer, turkeys, etc. • Only 30 minutes to Grand Junction BRIAN MASON • 970-234-3167 MASON REAL ESTATE, INC.

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• Beautiful/Pristine 1,485+/- mtn. acres. • Hunting lodge, residence, cabins, barn & more! • Creeks, trout ponds, springs. • Borders Grand Mesa National Forest. • Elk, deer, bear, turkeys, in GMU 421 BRIAN MASON • 970-234-3167 MASON REAL ESTATE, INC. www.MasonREColorado.com

• 36 Acres of sloping terrain covered with Aspens & Oak brush • A small creek crosses this property to a pond on the adjacent parcel • This property is suited for year-round living or a perfect summer getaway • Road is maintained for year-round access JULIE SOMERVILLE • 970-216-6322 JOE HICKS REAL ESTATE

• 4 BR, 3 BA, 2719 SF home on approx. 40 acres • Privacy, seclusion, room for your toys! • Home backs up to BLM land • Downstairs family/game room plus office • Beautiful views of the Grand Mesa & Bookcliffs DIANNE DINNEL • 970-208-4819 KELLER WILLIAMS COLORADO WEST REALTY, LLC

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• 2 BR, 2BA, 1080 SF home • Picturesque, private & secluded • Wood burning stove, walk-in closets, covered patio • 30 min from town on paved/maintained road • Property backs up to BLM land, great trophy hunting. Wooded terrain, explore/ hike right out the back door DIANNE DINNEL • 970-208-4819 KELLER WILLIAMS COLORADO WEST REALTY, LLC 20148

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Hunting ProPerties CIMARRON • 401 Spruce $182,000

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COLLBRAN • 54313 Hwy 330 $375,000

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• Beautiful custom built home w/covered deck • Pond & creek in the front yard • Great country kitchen with an island, wonderful tile accents, solid maple wood floors throughout, Travertine tile, 9’ ceilings • Oversized garage & so much more!

• 57.17 Fenced irrigated acres located on the South side of Highway 330 • Great home with easy maintenance land & plenty of water. • 36.04 adjoining acres also available for sale West of the home offered at $95k

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MOLINA • 10324 52 1/2 Road $175.000

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By Ben Ingersoll As a lifelong hunter, Roy Bennett is used to waiting with a gun in hand. But at 93, the World War II veteran and Pearl Harbor survivor from Texas was getting understandably anxious last fall. Roy and his son Ken Bennett, 65, have made the trip to Colorado to hunt many times, scouring land in California Park north of Hayden and areas outside of Kremmling. But on this particular weekend, Roy was getting some special treatment. Roy is a member of Outdoor Buddies, a 30-year-old nonprofit based in Colorado that provides therapeutic recreational opportunities to disabled individuals and youth from across the country. Paired up with Outdoor Buddies’ President Larry Sanford, Roy and Ken were

able to hunt on Twentymile Coal Mine’s private land southwest of Steamboat Springs. But unseasonable weather was making conditions finicky. A herd of about 50 elk had passed by, but its few bulls were too far away to get a shot off. Then luck turned in Roy’s favor. “We went around a hill and all of a sudden there were four elk with two bulls,” Ken says. “From about 150 yards out, my dad hit the bull’s high shoulder. You couldn’t have had a happier 93-year-old.” Roy’s grin is the foundation on which Outdoor Buddies was built three decades ago. It started as a project launched by representatives at Craig Hospital in Denver in conjunction with the Division of Wildlife as a way to give patients suffering from brain and spinal chord injuries a chance to return to the outdoors and

PHOTO COURTESY OF OUTDOOR BUDDIES Outdoor Buddies President Larry Sanford, left, helps member hunter Sam Lomen of California line up a shot on a bull elk near Twentymile Coal Mine. The three-decade-old nonprofit helps disabled hunters fulfill their outdoor dreams by setting up buddy hunts.

SHORTSHOTS

HELPING THE DISABLED FULFILL THEIR HUNTING DREAMS “You couldn’t have had a happier 93-year-old.” — Ken Bennett get out of bed and escape wheelchair confinement. Current Executive Director Dwaine Robey took the reins in the late 1990s, and the organization blossomed. It started when Robey’s lifelong friend became paralyzed from the chin down. Robey saw a need for his close friend to find a reason to rekindle what he had lost in his accident. “I told him, ‘It looks like you could do some more hunting,’” Robey says. “It gave him a reason to live.” While Roy is confined to hunt from a vehicle, last fall’s hunt was a memory of a lifetime. “There are very few people or organizations who would make each individual hunt a memory like this for the disabled,” says Ken. “My dad could not express what lengths Outdoor Buddies did to fulfill his dream.” There are nearly 800 other members just like Ken hailing from 39 states that Outdoor Buddies serves. Of those, two-thirds are disabled members, and the other third is made up of able-bodied guides who assist on the private-land hunts like Sanford and Robey did with Roy. The organization constantly looks for businesses and individuals that are willing to let hunters and guides conduct trips on their land, like Twentymile Coal Mine has done for about two decades. When Outdoor Buddies opens a new round of hunting trip applications, most of the equipment comes with the adventure, including three available special wheelchairs equipped to tackle woodsy areas. The donated chairs are valued at $11,000 to $16,000 apiece, and membership is a few online clicks away. “It’s really easy to become a member,” Robey says. “We don’t have any fees. Anyone can register as a member.” Once someone becomes a member, they can apply for the Colorado hunting trips, something Ken insists — after seeing his father light up at the sight of his perfect kill — will last forever. “This organization is just unreal,” he says. “The difference they make in the lives of those disabled like my dad, a war hero, the time they dedicate with their funds, the community doesn’t understand how much they mean.”

2015 | colorado Hunter

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NOVICE YOUTH GET CHANCE TO TURKEY HUNT By Andy Bockelman

outh in Colorado are getting to have turkey more than just at Thanksgiving. In what is now an established tradition in Northwest Colorado, local Colorado Parks and Wildlife managers and area landowners joined together this spring to give young novices a few memories that will last a lifetime — a three-day, high-quality turkey hunt on private land with education and mentoring provided by experienced wildlife officers. Three kids and their families were awarded the chance in Meeker, and for the second year, two kids and their families in Craig. “We’ve been offering this opportunity for several years, and my fellow officers and I have loved every minute of it,” says hunt organizer District Wildlife Manager Bailey Franklin of Meeker. “It’s very rewarding to give a kid an experience like this.” As part of CPW’s statewide Hunter Outreach program, the annual turkey hunts brings skilled mentors together with inexperienced youth —

under 18 with a valid Hunter Education card — who want to learn and participate but do not have someone to teach them the skills necessary for a safe and successful hunt. The lucky youths selected for this year’s Meeker hunt were Charlie Day, 14, of Meeker, Kathryn Walsh, 13, of Denver, and Garrett Hayden, 10, of Monte Vista. In Craig, the honors went to 12-year-old Laadan, from Craig, and Savanna Goodin, 16, of Falcon, who suited up in their camouflage and took to Douglas Mountain near Browns Park Wildlife Refuge on land owned by John Raftopoulos, Dawn Nottingham, Jimmy Horton and Scott and Debbie Estes. Each novice qualified by fulfilling their Hunter Education requirements, and submitting a 500-word essay about their lack of experience and willingness to learn. “These kids had never hunted before and neither have their families, and that is a key factor in why they were chosen,” Franklin says. “With the skills they learned, they can now go out on their own and maybe

Turkey and teens: The winners of this year’s youth turkey hunt with their CPW guides.

they will be the mentors someday.” In Meeker, district wildlife managers Mike Swaro, Terry Wygant and Johnathan Lambert and Franklin provided expert guidance during the three-day excursion. Using borrowed youth model shotguns provided by CPW, the young hunters spent a little time practicing and learning about the safe use of firearms at the Meeker Sportsmen’s Club — a longtime supporter of the Hunter Outreach program.

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SHORTSHOTS

In the Craig hunt, the winners wasted no time, filling their turkey tags in just hours. “He did it all himself,” says Laadan’s stepfather, Don Griffin. “It was wonderful and a lot of fun to watch him do it. It gives him the skills he needs that he probably wouldn’t have gotten otherwise.” In his essay applying for the trip, Laadan wrote that he didn’t want to miss out on an event he might never see again. The turkey he claimed was a new challenge, having mostly hunted critters like rabbits and prairie dogs. “It might get me started in more turkeys, and it might get me started on elk and deer,” he wrote, adding that he hopes to hunt big game this fall. The various lessons covered by the wildlife officers included ethics, biology, firearms safety, regulations, how to use a call, reading sign in the field and preparing meat for consumption. “This year was super successful,” Swaro says. “They all got birds, so we went five for five. But responsible hunting is not just about aiming and shooting. There’s a lot to learn before anyone heads to the field.” Wildlife officers say a main reason for the success has been the generosity of local landowners, which in Meeker included the Jensen Family Ranch properties and the Clark White River Ranch. “We had even more interest and support from landowners this year, which is very encouraging,” Franklin says. “Without them, these once-in-alifetime hunting opportunities would not be possible.”

Five for five: This year’s winners all filled their tags.

Officials say a lack of mentorship is a main reason hunting numbers have declined. “That’s why our Hunter Outreach program is so important,” adds Franklin. “Without good mentorship, it’s challenging for people to get involved.” Swaro adds, “The whole purpose is to recruit

families to enjoy hunting. Our first priority is first time hunting families, taking out mom, dad and the kids.” Landowners interested in supporting CPW’s youth hunting programs in Northwest Colorado, and families wishing to apply are encouraged to call CPW. Info: 970-878-6090

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GETTING A LATE LICENSE It’s Wednesday night, elk season begins in 60 hours and all your buddies are up at camp while you’re sitting at home after missing the limited license deadline last April. Luckily, there are some options for still picking up a tag. Without drawing a limited license in the computer draw, start perusing the list of over-the-counter (OTC) and over-the-counter with caps (bear and elk) licenses available online and at CPW offices and license agents statewide. Unlimited over-the-counter licenses are licenses that are unlimited in number and available in a range of units and seasons. There are some unlimited over-the-counter licenses for cow and either-sex archery elk, bull elk in the second and third rifle seasons, as well as other choices (a list of license vendors and regulations can be found at www.cpw.state.co.us).

THE LICENSE LOW-DOWN You’re not going to hunt without a license. Fortunately, Colorado offers several different types of big-game licenses and different options for purchasing them. Limited licenses award licenses to hunters for specific units and dates. To get one, or preference points, hunters must apply for the draw in April. These are distributed through an application and drawing process and include public-land hunts, private-landonly licenses and Ranching for Wildlife (RFW) licenses. Private-land-only licenses include private lands within GMUs listed on the licenses as well as State Trust Lands not leased by CPW but which have an active private recreational lease through the State Land Board (ask the landowner if this applies). Permission from private landowners is always needed before hunting with a private-land-only license. Ranching for Wildlife licenses are available to all Colorado residents. Resident hunters may apply to hunt a specific ranch, with each ranch having its own specific rules. Leftover draw licenses are those for elk and deer applicants only, giving them the first chance at the limited licenses that are left after the draw by

Q: A:

If you’re not too picky, you can get one of the unlimited OTC bull elk tags for one of the many elk management units on the Western Slope. While there are plenty of licenses available, these popular walk-up tags generally mean you won’t be hunting alone. You can also go online for any available leftover licenses, tags that didn’t get claimed during the June limitedlicense draw or the following leftover draw. But as the state’s elk population gets closer to desired levels, these coveted extra licenses are starting to disappear, and you may have to settle for an unfamiliar unit. Another possibility is a private-land license, where permission from the landowner is required prior to purchasing a license. It’s not impossible to hunt prime ranch land, as several ranchers may allow cow hunts late in the year after the paying customers have gone home. Offering last-minute license help to hunters “really isn’t that rare of an occurrence,” says Meeker CPW terrestrial biologist Darby Finley. “It depends on what

kind of hunt people want, but usually I’ll send them to areas with lots of public land where they don’t have to do a lot of scouting, where there’s good access and chances to see some elk. But I also tell them they’re going to see a lot of hunters, since everyone wants to go where the access is easiest.” Another option is finding last-minute space with an outfitter. “The chances of getting on a guided hunt at the last minute are better than they used to be,” says Collbran outfitter Colby Olford, adding that the Colorado Outfitter Association (coloradooutfitters. org) can supply information on its members. “A lot of outfitters aren’t booked as full as they once were due to the draw and the license limitations. One outfitter I know had nine different calls one year to cancel reserved hunts.” So there’s hope for the last-minute hunter. As long as there is a day left in the season, there’s time for you to go hunting.

checking the “Leftover Draw” box on the application where it states, “If unsuccessful, send me...” They’re available starting July 21. Over-the-counter licenses with caps include a preset number of licenses are available on a firstcome, first-served basis for both resident and nonresident hunters. These are called licenses “with caps.” Over-the-counter unlimited licenses are available to both resident and non-resident hunters also starting July 21. There are an unlimited number of these licenses that may be purchased any time up until the day before your hunting season starts. After the season starts, they are available at CPW offices only, except for archery elk OTC licenses and plains elk OTC licenses, which can be purchased at any license agent. Both are sold online, by phone at 800-244-5613 or at CPW locations and license agents starting July 21. Leftover limited licenses are available starting Aug. 4, to both resident and non-resident hunters. They are the limited licenses remaining after the draw and leftover draw processes. They go on sale in person and by phone at 800-244-5613 on Aug. 4. These licenses are sold by different methods at different license agents and are available online on the CPW website starting at midnight Aug. 5.

LICENSE ALLOCATIONS

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Non-resident allocations are determined by the average number of preference points a Colorado resident needed to draw for a specific license during a three-year period that ended with the 2009 drawing. (Units with low numbers of available licenses may not have any remaining for nonresidents after resident licenses are drawn.) For elk and deer hunt codes that required six or more points for a Colorado resident to draw, up to 20 percent may go to non-residents. These hunts are designated in unit tables by a “+“ under the “SEX” column. For hunt codes that required fewer than six points for a Colorado resident to draw an elk or deer license, up to 35 percent may go to non-residents. Non-resident allocations may increase if licenses remain after all Colorado resident first choices have been drawn for that hunt code. License allocations do not apply to private-landonly and Ranching For Wildlife licenses. In a group of applications made up of both residents and non-residents, all non-residents in the group will count against the non-resident allocation.

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HUNT HUMOR 2015 | colorado Hunter

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THEHERDWORD “It’s setting up to be one of the best hunting seasons we’ve had in a long time.” — Brad Petch, CPW’s northwest senior wildlife biologist

AT ITS BEST

“MIRACLE” SPRING USHERS IN FANTASTIC HUNTING SEASON By Eugene Buchanan

t’s a good year to be a big game animal — and hunter, for that matter — in Northwest Colorado. “From what we’re seeing, conditions are fantastic,” says Brad Petch, CPW’s northwest senior wildlife biologist. “This year is shaping up to be one of the best on recent record for local elk and deer populations. It’s setting up to be one of the best hunting seasons we’ve had in a long time.” Petch credits this to a mild, low-snow winter, followed by a record-setting May for moisture across the region. “While survival was really high this year due to a low-snow year, in March, things looked rough drought-wise,” he says. “But then we

had a miracle spring.” He adds that a high survival rate over the winter, coupled with mild weather during the last part of the year, should result in a significant number of bucks and bulls this season. “In most areas, the last severe winter we had was in 2007-08,” he says. “The string of mild years should result in more animals available for the 2015 hunting seasons. It’s shaping up to be one of the best seasons we’ve had in recent years.” The weather conditions have also been remarkable from a forage standpoint. “It’s set us up for a great fawn and calf crop and excellent conditions heading into the fall,” he says. “It’s in far better shape than I anticipated we’d be in, in March and April.” 2015 | colorado Hunter

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THEHERDWORD

“Good elk numbers and good bull ratios should be found in most units in the Northwest Region...” — Brad Petch, CPW’s northwest senior wildlife biologist Elk “Most herds in the Northwest Region are at objective,” Petch says. “Good elk numbers and good bull ratios should be found in most units. Good places for hunters to look would be the Bears Ears and White River elk herds, but good hunting opportunity can be found in any elk unit in the region.” Petch adds that CPW met its elk license recommendations at the end of March, coincidentally right when the rains began to make it a stellar season. Because of the great conditions, he adds, license recommendations will likely begin creeping up again. In particular, he says that CPW is increasing licenses in some units like the Bears Ears herd in the Yampa Valley to ensure they stay within objective. “We had scaled cow licenses back a bit in the Yampa and White River valleys,” he says. “But they’re creeping back up again in both regions in response to the incredible conditions. There are now more licenses available for elk, and there will be more leftover cow tags this year in some of the bigger herd units.” The great conditions, he adds, apply no matter your chosen tool. “These conditions will benefit all three areas of hunts: archery, muzzle-loading and rifle,” he says. “From a forage standpoint, we’re in a remarkably good place across the board.” Mule deer Mule deer, Petch adds, are slowly recovering from a downward trend in population size on the Western Slope, thanks largely to great weather conditions the last few years and the implementation of CPW’s West Slope Mule Deer Initiative. “There’s no question that some mule deer herds on the Western Slope aren’t doing well,” he says. “But several areas are at or above objective.” In particular, he says the Bears Ears herd, Middle Park herd and State Bridge herd are all doing well at or near long-term objectives. “Those are our stand-out areas right now,” he says, adding that the last really hard winter local populations had to face was back in 2007-08. “We’ve had really good production over the last several years, with several regions starting to turn the corner. We’re seeing some really positive signs.” One area that’s starting to shine is buck ratios. “A lot of our buck ratios are as high as they’ve ever been, even when the total number of deer is less than desired,” Petch says. In Middle Park, he adds, the ratio is at 40, meaning 40 bucks for every 100 does. “This equates to great buck hunting, even in areas where deer herds are struggling.” A lot of this stems from management practices. “We’ve been quite conservative with our buck and doe licenses the past few years,” he says. “We dropped our buck licenses back precipitously because of that hard winter of 200708. But now our buck ratios are the envy of other western states.” Petch adds that there might also be some opportunities for left-over tags as well. Pronghorn Except for Middle Park, where objectives are higher, pronghorn populations remain somewhat below objective in most herd units in the northwest, says Petch. But other areas are showing improvement.

HUNT HUMOR 46 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

Q: A:

“Antelope is a mixed bag,” Petch says. “As a region, we’re below where we’d like to be. But some units are continuing to show improvement.” The main issue, he adds, is their susceptibility to fickle weather. “Pronghorn are among the most sensitive of the big game animals to weather conditions, characterized by poor reproduction during both drought years and hard winters,” he says. He adds that area populations declined substantially during the extended drought from 2001 through 2007 and are still rebuilding, particularly in lower elevation ranges in western Moffat County. These declines have resulted in reduced buck and doe license availability. But he adds that hunting should remain strong, and that recent conditions have been favorable for pronghorn populations. “Pronghorns will benefit quickly from good production over last year’s mild winter and from good forage conditions,” he says. “But we won’t see the results of that until next year.” Another area where improvements are likely to occur is horn growth. “You could see a little better horn quality on bucks this year,” he says. “Horn growth should be positively affected by this year’s conditions.”

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2015 LICENSE FEES ear licenses are going up. ($10 2015 Habitat Stamp required) According to wildlife biologist Subtract $3 for over-the-counter Brad Petch, Colorado Parks and Bear — Draw (limited) Wildlife has substantially increased the ■ Resident — $44 number of bear licenses available in the ■ Non-resident — $354 Northwest region this year. From 2013 to 2014, it increased them by 1,045 to a *Non-resident fishing licenses are total of 12,750, and this year, they’ll rise good through March 31, 2016. Prices to 15,280, an increase of 2,530. include a 25-cent search-and-rescue “It’s another substantial increase fee, a 75-cent surcharge for the this year,” he says, adding most of the Wildlife Management Education Fund increase is in the September rifle bear and a $3 application fee for limited licenses applied for in the draw. hunt. “We had a particularly bad bear conflict year in 2014, particularly in the Bookcliffs, Grand Mesa and Aspen areas, with a substantially elevated number of damage and control mortalities. Part of our desire with the increased number of bear licenses is to convert some of these control mortalities into hunter harvest.” He adds that they’ve also implemented a new season structure this year during the rifle bear hunt that’s concurrent with the October and November rifle deer and elk seasons. 337 W. Victory - Craig, Colorado 970-824-1764

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“Each concurrent rifle bear license is good for all four of the regular deer and elk seasons,” he says. “With that much change in the October and November bear season structure, we wanted to keep those license numbers the same to allow us to see how hunters choose to use those licenses across the four deer and elk seasons.” CPW wants to reduce the number of bears roaming the wild, in part because too many are roaming in places not so wild. After a few bad years of bears making their way into Colorado mountain towns in search of food, CPW went from gradually increasing the license count to a more dramatic approach. The number of licenses went from 4,715 in 2009 to 11,705 in 2013. Bear harvest rates are extremely low compared to other big-game animals, adds Petch. “In Colorado our highest success rates for public hunts are in the 8 to 9 percent range,” he says. “Many units have success rates in the 3 to 4 percent range, while the later seasons, after bears have begun to den, average closer to 1 percent.” The best bear-harvest rate in the past six years in the Northwest Region was 6.8 percent in 2008, when 323 bears were harvested in public hunts out of 4,737 licenses issued. Bear numbers are also hard to grasp, he adds. “Bear numbers are particularly difficult to estimate from year to year,” he says. “Most of our population estimates are developed from a suite of models based on expected bear-carrying capacity under a range of forage availability ... and are much better for long-term trend than annual population estimation. In most bear units in the Northwest, these demographic indicators suggest that bear populations are stable to increasing, even with the recent increases in license numbers. However, movement in these indices suggest that we are beginning to get on top of those still-increasing populations.” Helping those numbers this year are the forage conditions. “Bear forage conditions in most of the region this year look very good,” he says. “While there is still some chance of a weather event that would affect the abundance of fall berries and acorns, current conditions suggest that we will see an abundance of each in bear habitat this fall.”

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BIRD OPTIONS ABOUND By Dan Olsen Big game isn’t the only game in town in Western Colorado. Often overshadowed is the area’s autumn hunts for a variety of birds. Grouse, ducks, geese and even turkeys can all be found in this corner of Colorado, from Grand Junction to the Green River. Grouse According to CPW Meeker area wildlife manager Bill Devergie, all three species of grouse — blue (dusky), great sage and columbine sharp-tail — are present and hunted regularly throughout western Colorado. “Quite a few people come hunt them every year,” he says. “There are separate seasons and bag limits for each. A lot of times even elk hunters are opportunistic and go after blue grouse during their hunts for bigger game.” Steamboat Springs CPW area wildlife manager Jim Haskins maintains that Hahn’s Peak Basin is one of the best in the state for blue grouse hunting. “It has some of the best terrain for them around,” he says. Longtime Craig resident and big game outfitter Eric Hamilton is one hunter who looks forward to grouse season each fall. “It’s a lot of fun, and we do it every year,” he says, touting blue grouse and sharptail as favorites. “They’re a lot of fun to hunt.” Even during

archery season, he keeps a lookout for birds. “We’ll hunt them in some spots where we know they’re feeding,” he says. “We look for them while archery hunting, and we’ll cook them up right there and have them for lunch.” Greater sage grouse season runs from Sept. 13 to 14 in GMUs 6, 16, 17, 161 and 171 and Sept. 13 to 19 in GMUs 2,3,4,5, 10,11,13,18, 27, 28, 37, 181, 211, 301 and 441. Sharp-tailed grouse can be taken Sept. 1 to 21 in GMUs 4, 5, 12, 13, 14, 131, 211, 214 and 441. Dusky (blue) grouse season runs from Sept. 1 to Nov. 17 in units west of U.S. Interstate 25. Migratory birds Waterfowl hunting in the Pacific Flyway (west of the Continental Divide) can be challenging just for the struggle of finding access to waterways, but the efforts are often rewarded as hunters typically return from the Yampa River or Elkhead Reservoir with their limits. Ducks and geese gather at the very north end of Elkhead Reservoir, making a boat nearly mandatory for access as that area is surrounded by private land. The Yampa River also presents access difficulties, as most bottomland was homesteaded more than 100 years ago and is private. Some areas such as Duff y

WATERFOWL HUNTING FEES Small Game License Plus: ■ Habitat stamp — $10 ■ Colorado waterfowl stamp — $5 ■ Federal duck stamp — $15 Small Game License: ■ Resident — $21 ■ Non-resident —$56

Mountain have public BLM land that accesses the river and may be hunted. In Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge, waterfowl may be hunted only at Butch Cassidy Lake, Hog Lake and the Green River corridor. The use of dogs for hunting and small game retrieving is encouraged. A great deal of waterfowl hunting in Northwest Colorado is done on private ponds or watering holes. Roger Simones runs a cement plant in Craig, and the water ponds there make for good hunting in the fall. “Ducks are getting better and better,” he says. “Last year was phenomenal, with every kind of duck, from mallards to even wood ducks.” 2015 | colorado Hunter

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Fill your big game tag? Bird hunting options are plentiful in Northwest Colorado.

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MOOSE ON THE LOOSE COLORADO POPULATION GROWING

By Dave Buchanan

2015 LICENSE FEES curious element of wildlife ($10 2015 Habitat Stamp required) husbandry is that animal Subtract $3 for over-the-counter reintroductions are considered Moose — Draw (limited) successful when hunting is needed to ■ Resident — $254 keep the population under control. So ■ Non-resident — $2,064 it is with Colorado’s moose population, and on Grand Mesa in particular. SEASONS While other states, including ■ Archery — Sept. 12 to 27 those with indigenous moose herds, ■ Muzzleloader — Sept. 12 to 20 are seeing moose populations fall, ■ Rifle— Oct. 1 to 14 Colorado’s largest member of the deer family is doing extremely well. Which is good news for hunters. “The growing number and distribution of moose have resulted in greater hunting opportunity,” maintains Colorado Parks and Wildlife director Bob Broscheid. “We now have hunting in 57 GMUs, up from 39 in 2013.” Broscheid says estimates put the statewide moose population in areas where hunting is allowed at 2,400 animals. That success has made Colorado popular among moose hunters nationwide, says Brad Petch, CPW’s Northwest Region senior wildlife biologist. “In this time when moose populations across the northern tier of states are not doing well, moose in Colorado and particularly on Grand Mesa continue to do very, very well,” he says. “In response to the demand, our hunting license numbers have been leaping up in recent years, but it’s still only a tiny fraction of the demand.” In 2014, some 20,000 prospective hunters applied for 268 available licenses. The 255 hunters participating in the 2014 fall hunt killed 209 moose, including 105 bulls and 104 cows for an 82 percent success rate. “There is great demand for our moose hunting,” adds CPW state big game manager Andy Holland. To meet that demand, 321 licenses will be available this year, a jump of 21 percent. Of those licenses, 39 will be for the seven game management units around Grand Mesa, known collectively as M-5. On Grand Mesa, license numbers have gone up steadily since the first moose licenses (three bull tags) for the area were issued in 2009, when the herd numbered an estimated 192 animals. This year, nine of the M-5 licenses will be bull/either sex licenses and 30 (up from NORTHWEST MOOSE AT A GLANCE

CPW estimates Northwest Colorado’s moose population will be around 1,580 at year end, representing more than 60 percent of the state’s entire moose population. With 227 licenses allocated in the Northwest Region this year, up 24 from 2014, this keeps them moving toward the population objective target of around 1,300. Moose were reintroduced to the North Park region by CPW in 1978. In 2005, it introduced moose on Grand Mesa, and in 2008, it transferred another group of moose to the Flat Tops Wilderness Area near Meeker.

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20 in 2014) will be cow licenses. It was only two years ago the first cow license was issued, and each year since the number of those licenses has increased. This year, there is a 50 percent jump in cow licenses. “This is more based on where we are in regard to the (population) objective we strive for on the mesa,” Petch says. “It’s unusual to see the kind of cow (license) numbers we are seeing so soon after a transplant.” The population objective for the Grand Mesa units, he adds, is around 400 moose. “In 2014 post-hunt numbers, we were a bit over that at the end,” Petch says. “It certainly surprises us that (moose) have grown that far in excess of what we anticipated. They are doing exceptionally well.”

Since these reintroductions, moose have thrived through Northwest Colorado. The giant herbivores, which can reach six feet at their shoulders and top 1,000 pounds, love the habitat of western Colorado so much that their numbers continue to grow. The North Park population is estimated at more than 500, with the Middle Park herd topping 300 and the Grand Mesa herd estimated at 400. If you were lucky enough to pull a license this year — the chance of getting one out of nearly 11,000 annual applicants is about 2 percent — don’t rush into

trying to fill your tag. Experts recommend being more patient on your hunt than for any other big game. Moose are relatively solitary and can be difficult to find. Stick to forested areas, particularly those near marshes and swamps. Any area thick with willows, their primary source of food, is also prime habitat. Moose also eat pine needles and deciduous tree leaves as well as aquatic plants and aspen trees. Your best chance to see one is early in the morning or late afternoon. Be aware that they also can be extremely aggressive, especially when startled, and are known to defend their home territory.

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MOOSE VS. ELK KNOW THE DIFFERENCE

In 2011, more than a dozen moose were killed by hunters who thought they were shooting cow elk. Know the difference. Illegally shooting a moose carries a fine starting at $1,350. “If you’re not 100 percent certain about the target, do not pull that trigger,” says Parks and Wildlife northwest regional manager Ron Velarde. “It’s a serious concern that some hunters are either unable to properly identify their target or are simply too impatient to take a responsible shot.” Wildlife managers say that accidents usually involve a combination of poor judgment, low-light conditions, a long-distance view of the animal and not using a good pair of binoculars or a spotting scope. “In many incidents, binoculars or a spotting scope could have helped the hunter identify their target,” says Dean Riggs, assistant regional manager in the Northwest Region.

HUNT HUMOR

Unlike their moose cousins farther north, the Shiras moose found in Colorado can be found in a wide range of habitats. While the animals favor stream- and pondside willows, you also might find them in lodgepole pine, oak brush, aspen, spruce, fir and even sagebrush flats, the same habitat preferred by elk. But they’re vastly different in size, color, antler shape and habits. A mature bull moose weighs 1,200 pounds — twice that of the average bull elk. Moose are dark brown and appear almost black. Elk are light brown or golden, with a pale yellow rump. Moose also have large, bulbous noses and a “bell,” or large flap of skin, hanging under their throat (an elk’s snout is narrower with no “bell”). Bull moose also have broad, flat antlers, unlike the pointed antlers of an elk (though the antlers on some young bulls haven’t flattened out yet). Other telltale features include white/gray inner legs and an overhanging snout. Moose also act differently than elk. Typically, moose will not flee like elk at the sight of a hunter. So always identify your target before shooting.

Elk

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SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST THEHERDWORD

MULE DEER STRATEGY PAYING DIVIDENDS

By Dave Buchanan The Trough Road is a spectacular and curvy 25mile mostly unpaved route from State Bridge to Kremmling, cutting through the heart of Middle Park, the home of Colorado’s largest deer herd. Drive this route in winter and deer seemingly are everywhere, a sight no longer common in western Colorado or the entire West. For years, the Piceance Basin north of Rifle has claimed to be the home of the state’s largest migrating deer herd (a now-fallen sign along Rio Blanco Country Road 5 once boasted this fact) but years of energy development and drought have taken their toll on deer numbers. But Colorado isn’t alone. Mule deer herds across the West are struggling for a variety of reasons, and once again, Colorado Parks and Wildlife has taken the lead in trying to rebuild the West’s iconic big-game animal. “The declining mule deer population is concerning to our agency and many stakeholders across the state,” says Chad Bishop, CPW assistant director for wildlife and natural resources. “Due to the variety of factors

PHOTO BY DAVID DIETRICH

that influence deer populations, we’re looking for public feedback on an approach that brings together everyone’s limited resources in an impactful way.”

The result of that public outreach is the agency’s West Slope Mule Deer Strategy, a multi-pronged effort adopted last year that “addresses many potential issues affecting continued on page 57

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Mesa, and this year, with all the forage, your survival and recruitment should be excellent,” he says. “I think deer are looking very good but with all this forage, they will be scattered more than usual and hunters are going to have to show more patience than usual.” Cutting back deer licenses and a series of mild winters have helped, Petch says. “We’re seeing generally increased mule deer survival in our mule deer survival study areas on the Western Slope and improving conditions in a number of deer herds on the Western Slope as a result.” More than a decade of restrictive license limits, including making all deer licenses limited licenses, is achieving some of the goals of the mule deer strategy. “Buck numbers and quality are quite good, even in deer units that are below objective,” Petch says. “Good buck hunting can be found in many areas across the region.” As a sign of that improving buck health, a new fourth rifle season buck hunt was added for unit 201 in Northwest Colorado and more fourth rifle buck season licenses were made available in Gunnison Basin units. Also, new does hunts have been added in game units 55 and 551 (Gunnison Basin). Scott Wait, Southwest Region terrestrial biologist, says hunters in that area should see no immediate impacts from the program. However, he notes, “it is a concerted effort on multiple fronts getting started this summer and fall” and impacts may appear in the future.

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PHOTO BY JOHN DEPALMA

continued from page 55 mule deer populations in the region,” says Brad Petch, the CPW Northwest Region terrestrial biologist. Petch notes that most deer herds in the Northwest Region are, and have been, below desired population levels. The notable exceptions, he adds, are Middle Park — through which the Trough Road runs — and the Upper Colorado River drainage. While CPW can’t do anything to affect changes in climate or the impact of harsh winter weather, it can manipulate human impacts due to harvest. “Doe license numbers were reduced for 2015 in a number of units that are below objective, while buck license numbers remained stable in some units and increased in others,” Petch says. Those license cuts included the lower Colorado River area, including Grand Mesa. “Licenses were dramatically reduced for does, which is due to the strategy and what input we received from the public” during a series of stakeholder meetings with CPW staff, says JT Romatzke, Area Seven wildlife manager in Grand Junction. “Much of our public input wanted to know what we could do, and we heard from many people that they were willing to forgo hunting for a few years if it meant restoring the herds to health.” Romatzke adds that while doe license numbers this year were reduced, the number of buck licenses is close to what’s been issued in previous years. “We’re seeing some good quality bucks on Grand

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REGIONAL WRAP-UPS By Andy Bockelman & Dave Buchanan A mild winter followed by a wet spring spells fantastic conditions for local game populations this year, according to area wildlife experts. Below, we ask experts in specific regions for an even more nuanced take on this year’s hunting season. Middle Park Middle Park is firing on all cylinders, says area wildlife manager Lyle Sidener. “All species are either at or above objective,” he says, adding that CPW increased licenses in the area’s elk units to hold those populations at objective. “We had a really mild winter, and all species’ winter survival rates were good. As well, spring and summer moisture has been timely to benefit big game. With good winter survival and abundant summer forage, we’re expecting the best for big game hunters this fall.” Sidener says Middle Park’s deer continue to have high survival and production (“as high as anywhere in the state,” he says) and that CPW held licenses the same this season as last year, after increases the previous two years. “We’re getting enough harvest to stay toward objective,” he says. “With deer we’re

always concerned about setting up the perfect storm: we issue a large number of licenses and then the weather comes in early and we overshoot our harvest objective.” As for other big game species, he says pronghorn licenses were increased as the local population is slightly over objective, and that there were no increases in moose licenses in its core areas this year. “Moose populations have continued to expand into different areas within the GMUs, and we’ve increased licenses significantly over the last 10 years,” he says. “Those hunters lucky enough to have drawn a tag should have a good hunt.” The recent weather patterns, he adds, have also been helpful for bears. “They’re dependent on forage that comes from spring and summer moisture,” he says. “It also helps that our area’s berry-producing shrubs don’t get nailed by a late frost. We got the moisture not the frost, so conflicts with humans lessened. Bears should be well distributed and in good condition for hunting season.” Craig and Steamboat Springs region One hunting season’s loss is another one’s gain. Strong herd numbers this year mean positive things for hunters converging on the Craig and Steamboat

Springs region of Northwest Colorado. Post-hunt estimates by CPW show an increase for certain herds, such as the Bears Ears elk herd in Moffat County, which stands at about 24,000, according to the agency’s count following the 2014 seasons. The numbers are largely harvest-related, says CPW terrestrial biologist Darby Finley, adding that 2014’s mild weather patterns had a considerable impact on the herd. “The further west they move the more susceptible they are because of more public land,” he says. A bull ratio for the herd of about 23 bulls per 100 cows was also a good indicator, Finley adds, as well as an “exceptionally high” calf ratio — 60 calves to 100 cows. “That contributes to the increase when you see ratios like that,” he says. The White River elk herd is not experiencing the same kind of uptick as their neighbors farther north, with about 40,000 to 45,000 by CPW estimates. “That herd is showing a slightly increasing trend, but it’s been holding stable,” Finley says. “They’re still good elk numbers, for sure. We’ve actually increased numbers for recommendations for the Bears Ears continued on page 61

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THEHERDWORD A mild winter and a wet spring bode well for Colorado elk and deer hunters in 2015. The only drawback may be that the availability of so much forage may have animals well scattered and hunters might have to do some walking to locate their quarry.

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continued from page 58 will be greatly appreciated. “People can turn them in to the Craig warehouse or the nearest area agency office in Meeker or Steamboat,” he says. “They can be reused, and it really helps us keep things full circle.” Grand Junction region An exceptionally mild winter is good news for wildlife and wildlife managers but brings mixed blessings to Colorado’s big-game hunters. Spring-like temperatures in January and February kept big-game herds in good shape with very little winter mortality. A shallow mid-winter snowpack that contributed to easier feeding and more survival was later augmented by what water managers are calling a “Miracle May” bringing much-needed moisture to the Colorado’s high country. “Yes, it was a very mild winter, very open for deer and elk, and we saw no stress from the winter,” says CPW Southwest Region terrestrial biologist Scott Wait. “They should have wintered in great condition with very low mortality and minimal weight loss.” But near-perfect calving and fawning conditions are tempered by the exceedingly wet May and the cool June temperatures, Wait adds. “Wet and cool Junes such as we’ve had are associated with increased hypothermia, exposure and pneumonia mortality in fawns,” he says. “And possibly

in calves as well.” Wait says summer hikes and herd flyovers by CPW biologists will supply “anecdotal observations through the summer and more definitive ratios next winter in our annual inventory on winter range.” While that won’t have any consequence on this year’s hunting season, it may affect the coming years. “We could see ramifications in future years, with an entire age class reduced,” he cautions. The mildly negative news aside, the hunting forecast for both the Northwest and Southwest regions looks extremely good. “Things right now are looking great for the hunting season,” says JT Romatzke, Grand Junction area wildlife manager. “With that mild winter — we had 60 degrees in January in Grand Junction — we have no concerns at all about winter mortality.” And the abundant extra moisture in May has herds “fat and sassy,” Wait adds. “I’ve never seen such abundant, and nutritious, forage in July anywhere in Colorado as we have this year.” Romatzke agrees, saying the animals he and his staff monitor are showing the best body conditions for this time of year that anyone can remember.

THEHERDWORD

herd, but we’re keeping a status quo for White River, so no change there.” Numbers for deer in the northwest corner are also solid, partly thanks to a milder winter that supported better fawn survival. In the Bears Ears area, the animals are at about 40,000 to 45,000, and around 35,000 to 40,000 for White River. As far as pronghorn in the northwest, Finley says numbers are on the rebound after several years of decreasing trends, with 11,000 to 13,000 antelope following the respite in 2014 from earlier, harsher winters. The right kind of climate will keep hunters happy this year, and Finley expects first season to be especially strong. CPW is being “fairly conservative” with deer and antelope licenses this year, though he still anticipates some good activity. “I think our buck hunting the next few years is going to be phenomenal,” he says. “We’ve had ideal conditions to grow deer, a good year for antler growth, and the quality of bucks are going to be above what people have seen in the recent past.” Finley adds that CPW is currently utilizing radio collars for certain deer and elk to monitor survival rates through movement and distribution. He reminds hunters that collared animals are not off-limits, though a return of the equipment following a harvest

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HOTSPOTS WESTERN COLORADO A HUNTING HOT BED

By Eugene Buchanan

ight-in Western Colorado as your hunting destination and you couldn’t have chosen a better spot for chasing big game. The Pacific-most portion of the Centennial State harbors two key ingredients all hunters look for — the largest elk herds in the country, and extensive public lands. This equates to one of the best chances of filling your tag of anywhere in the country. “The scale of the elk herds in western Colorado is unprecedented compared to the rest of the country,” says Brad Petch, Colorado Parks & Wildlife’s senior biologist for Northwest Colorado. “There are very few places in the West where you can pick up a license at the counter and have a decent shot at getting a four-point bull.” Petch estimates that there are about 280,000 elk in Colorado, the most of any state, with more than 15 percent of those harvested every year. Other big game populations are also strong, including mule deer, moose, pronghorn, bear and mountain lion. From Grand Junction, head out onto Grand Mesa (units 41, 42, 411, 421, 52 and 521 for over-the-counter elk) and the Uncompahgre Plateau (units 61 and 62 for elk), as well as the Gunnison Basin (units 76 and 77 limited elk) for some of the best hunting in the state. After your hunt, tour through Grand Mesa or Colorado National Monument. Farther northwest, Dinosaur National Monument offers a glimpse of the region’s prehistoric past in the middle of world-class pronghorn options. The region also contains Brown’s Park on the Green River, a former outlaw hideout now offering world-class trout fishing below Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Just off U.S. Highway 40, Rangely is another sportsmen’s hot spot. Its hilly landscapes are populated with deer, pronghorn, elk and small game. Craig, the seat of Moffat County, is consistently ranked one of the top hunting destinations in the country for its vast public lands, private ranches and herds. From Craig, Colorado Highway 13 heads north toward Wyoming and south to hunter-friendly towns like Meeker, all prime hunting habitat. East of Craig on U.S. 40 is Hayden, which is also rich in ranching and hunting heritage, and another 30 minutes east is Steamboat Springs, the seat of Routt County. Known for its worldclass ski area, Steamboat also is home to fifth-generation ranches and some of the best elk, deer and moose hunting in the state. South of Steamboat on Colorado Highway 131 are the hunting hotbeds of Oak

HUNT HUMOR 62 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

Creek, Phippsburg and Yampa, the “Gateway to the Flat Tops” and the wilderness area’s prime hunting habitat. Across the Continental Divide, North Park is known for its moose and fishing. Located an hour drive on Colorado Highway 14 from both Steamboat and Laramie, Wyoming, Walden is the region’s largest city and is surrounded by extensive public lands for hunting. Farther south in Middle Park are the hunting hotbeds of Kremmling, Hot Sulphur Springs and Granby, which also carry vast herds of elk and, especially, mule deer. So no matter where your crosshairs are set, western Colorado is the place to be when it comes to hunting big game. Throw a dart at the map and see where it sticks; the entire area offers some of the best hunting in the country.

BRAGGART A deer hunter was bragging about the biggest, baddest, handsomest, heaviest deer he’d bagged the day before. “It’s got enough meat to eat the whole year,” he boasted. Just then the game warden came up and cited the man $500 for hunting without the proper tag. “Five-hundred dollars?” exclaimed the hunter. “All for a mangy, skinny, stubby, half-pint deer?”

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HOTSPOTS

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CRAIG

ELK HUNTING CAPITAL OF THE WORLD By Andy Bockelman

n 2012, Craig officially achieved a status that residents and recurring tourists had known for years. The designation of “Elk Hunting Capital of the World” became a true trademark for the city, largely thanks to five years of effort by local businessman John Ponikvar, who put forth the time and money in the venture in order to brand Craig in the right way. More than a mere slogan, the title is one that remains an important part of promoting all the area has to offer to incoming hunters from around the globe. Melody Villard, director of Moffat County Tourism Association, cites an article from Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation publication Bugle Magazine (May/June 2015) that references the town as a hunting hub thanks to the 55,000 elk in a 50-mile radius that “account for more than a fifth of the elk in Colorado and about as many as exist in the entire state of Washington.” The article lists Craig as No. 8 on Bugle’s listing for Elk City, USA, with the top spot going to Estes Park. Villard says there are multiple considerations for the ratings on the list — one of which is the ratio of humans to animals — though she believes Craig and Moffat County’s results speak for themselves. The “Elk Hunting Capital of the World” still plays into that, she says, increasing visibility of the northwest corner of Colorado across multiple media outlets, be it in the form of a bumper sticker or online. “There’s definitely highlights and articles that showcase that tagline,” she says, noting that Web searches for “elk hunting” continue to redirect people to Craig, the

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economy of which benefits from millions of dollars brought in by hunters. The challenge is ensuring that advertising like this provides an accurate expectation for hunters. Though the herds around Craig are massive, the number of tags and licenses allocated for elk in a given year isn’t always what it should be, Villard says. “The draw situation has really impacted our area in the last few years,” she says. Christina Oxley, director of Craig Chamber of Commerce, says the “Elk Hunting Capital of the World” topic continues to “spark conversation” within and outside the community, but the key is making that brand work to its full potential. “Like any marketing campaign, a brand is just a piece of it, and you’ve got to be actively out there promoting it,” she says.

HOME ON THE RANGE By Patrick Kelly

ant to hone your shot before heading out into the hills? Following is a sampler of shooting ranges where you can practice.

CRAIG Bears Ears Sportsman Club LOCATION: Moffat County Road 7 ABOUT: Bears Ears Sportsman Club is a private club working toward advancing shooting sports skills. Members focus on a variety of shooting disciplines, including cowboy action shooting, three-gun competition, bowling pin shooting, NRA bullseye competition and 4-H shooting sports. The range is open to the public Dec. 1 through March 31, as well as the first Friday and Saturday of every month. CONTACT: 970-824-7538; www.bearsears.org Wyman Living History Museum Archery Pitch LOCATION: 94350 E. U.S. Highway 40 ABOUT: In 2014, the Wyman Museum added a 60-yard archery pitch, which the community can use for free, to its grounds. After shooting a few arrows, you can explore the fantastic collection of artifacts in the museum or visit with Junior, the resident pet elk. CONTACT: 970-824-6346; www.wymanmuseum.com Craig Trap Club LOCATION: U.S. Highway 40 to Moffat County Road 64; first driveway on the right

ABOUT: Craig Trap Club is a local club dedicated to the safe and fun enjoyment of trap shooting. CONTACT: 970-629-8437

HAYDEN Hayden Shooting Range LOCATION: Three miles south of Hayden on Routt County Road 37 ABOUT: Hayden’s range is a free outdoor range operated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife with accommodations for long gun, pistol and shotgun. Usually only slightly crowded on weekends, this range is perfect for uninterrupted shooting. Open to the public seven days a week from dawn to dusk. CONTACT: CPW, 970-870-2197; Rainbow Sporting Goods, 970-276-3425

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS Three Quarter Circles Sporting Clays LOCATION: 26208 U.S. Highway 40 ABOUT: This sporting clays course, which involves 12 log-shooting platforms, is designed to accommodate beginners, seasoned competitors or sportsmen who simply want to sharpen their marksmanship. It can be modified daily to accommodate individuals or a team, camaraderie or competition, sport or training. The ranges are open seasonally May 1 through Oct. 30, weather permitting. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends and weekdays by appointment. CONTACT: 970-846-5647; www.3qc.net

Routt County Rifle Club LOCATION: Three miles west of Steamboat Springs on U.S. Highway 40, adjacent to M&M Auto Co. ABOUT: This is a private club that accommodates five-stand, skeet shooting, rifle outdoors, handgun outdoors, trap shooting, competition shooting, night shooting and semi-automatic. Three days prior to first and second rifle seasons, the range is open to the public, with range officers available for assistance, for sighting. There is a $5 fee per riffle. CONTACT: Elk River Guns, 970-979-7565

MEEKER Meeker Sportsman’s Club LOCATION: 36684 Colorado Highway 13 ABOUT: This private club accommodates skeet shooting, rifle, handgun, trap shooting and more, and it’s a great location to sight in your rifle before the big hunt, or join others from the area in some friendly competition. CONTACT: 970-878-3456

RIFLE Rifle Sportsmen’s Club LOCATION: 0194 Garfield County Road 244 ABOUT: The Rifle Sportsmen’s Club is a private nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving shooting sports. You must be a member in good standing to access the club outside of sanctioned club events. CONTACT: 970-625-1050; www.riflegunclub.com

WALDEN Walden Public Shooting Area LOCATION: Jackson County Road 12 off Colorado Highway 14 ABOUT: The Walden range is a public facility operated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife with ranges up to 200 yards to accommodate pistol and rifle shooters. No scattergun facilities. CONTACT: CPW, 970-870-2197

KREMMLING Blue Valley Sportsman Club LOCATION: Mile Post 128.1 on Colorado Highway 9, approximately 27 miles north of Silverthorne ABOUT: The Blue Valley Sportsman Club is a membersonly, nonprofit corporation. The original range facility was located off Williams Peak Road and was later relocated to its current location on private property off Colo. 9. The range is not open to the public, except for three scheduled shoots. CONTACT: 970-724-9368 2015 | colorado Hunter

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HOTSPOTS

A RUN-DOWN ON SHOOTING RANGES

HOTSPOTS 66 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

MEEKER

By Andy Bockelman

hen it comes to hunting, the meek—or at least those living in Meeker—shall inherit the Earth. While it’s quietly off the radar, nestled at the base of the Flat Tops Wilderness Area, Meeker is an unsung mecca for big game hunting. Once people get a taste of its small-town friendliness and world-class access to big game, they put it on their calendar every hunting season thereafter. “We get a lot of repeat customers every year,” says Stan Wyatt, owner of Wyatt’s Sports Center, which recently celebrated its 20th anniversary as a local hunting supply company. “Most of our business comes from non-residents. We see so many people year after year that it’s hard to remember them all.” Wyatt estimates he’s had a customer from every state in the country and beyond, many of them returning year after year. “We’ve had them from Alaska, Hawaii and Canada, and even England,” he

says. “People always say how beautiful it is around here, what a great little town it is and how friendly the people are. It has a great reputation.” This reputation — as well as the bountiful filling of hunting tags — is what leads to so much repeat business for everything from local guides and outfitters to area lodges and hotels. “It’s usually the same groups coming back year after year, and it’s always nice to see them,” says Blue Spruce Hotel manager Beckey Dowker, also an avid hunter. “It’s like family coming back every year. Most people like that we’re just a quiet little mountain town.” Further illustrating Meeker’s charm are its lifelong residents. Bill Wille, owner of Antlers Taxidermy, has hunted all over the world and first came to town decades ago for the hunting. He decided to stay and has now operated his service out of Meeker for the past 35 years. “The hunting is why I came out here, and that’s

HOTSPOTS

A SPORTSMAN’S PARADISE “The hunting is why I came out here, and that’s what I still love about it.” — Bill Wille, Antlers Taxidermy, Meeker what I still love about it,” says Wille, whose workshop is home to more than 200 mounts of large cats, bears, rodents, fowl and other animals from all over the world — including a rare ibex from Turkey. But despite his world travels, Meeker will always be home and remain close to his heart, for the same reasons that keep visiting hunters returning.

Joe Wood 2655 County Road 12 Meeker, CO 81641 970-878-0233 970-688-0249

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GRAND FOR HUNTING

By Eugene Buchanan

hanks to vast tracts of public land and sizable animal herds, Grand County — which encompasses Kremmling, Hot Sulphur Springs, Granby and Grand Lake — easily lives up to its grand billing for big-game hunting. “The hunting opportunities there are excellent, especially for mule deer,” maintains Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Mike Porras. “It has its own unique opportunities and tons of hunting acreage.” The Middle Park deer herd is modeled at more than 15,350, with a target objective of 11,500, making deer a primary target. “Historically, this region has always been known for its deer hunting,” says Lyle Sidener, CPW Grand County area wildlife manager. “We have a lot of low-lying central sage brush that helps gets deer through winter.” Sidener adds the region also has a long history of supporting deer research efforts, be it experts studying habitat use or nutrition. “Deer here have probably been studied more than they have anywhere else,” he says. Adding to the region’s hunting opportunities is its vast acreage, comprising units 15, 18, 27, 28, 37, 181 and 371, the majority of it open to the public. “There’s a high percentage of public land here to hunt, which is largely what makes it such a prime hunting destination,” Sidener adds. Every fall, hundreds of out-of-town hunters flock to the area in search of elk and mule deer, joining a strong population of local hunters, many of whom moved here for the mountains and hunting opportunities they present. The region also harbors

“Grand County’s high percentage of public land makes it a prime hunting destination.” — Lyle Sidener, CPW wildlife manager a robust outfitter business, with several of the state’s busiest guides and outfitting services calling the area home. And it’s more than deer driving this demand, Sidener says. Moose have migrated down from North Park to Middle Park, and area elk herds are also blossoming. The region’s three elk herds — Gore Pass, Troublesome Creek and Williams Fork — total nearly 15,000 animals. Hot spots include Gore Pass, William Peak and Willow Creek Pass, as well as Parkview, Elk and Grouse mountains. Big bulls can also be found south of the boundary for Rocky Mountain National Park in the Meadow Creek area. “That area is pretty under-utilized because it’s hard to get to,” Sidener says. “While there’s no hunting in the park, elk don’t necessarily understand that boundary. It’s truly a great region for hunting.”

19509

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GRAND COUTNY

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Obey traffic laws and respect private property surrounding county roads. Detailed OHV maps, mileage, and staging information are available from the Moffat County Tourism Association and the BLM. Only direct crossing of highways is permitted for OHVs. All county roads open to OHV traffic except CR 14 through Dinosaur National Monument â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Yampa Bench Road. 70 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

MOFFAT COUNTY T

1111 West Victory Way Craig, CO | w (Inside the Centennial Mall)

OHV Routes

OHV Direct Hig Crossing Permi OHV OHV Routes Routes OHV OHV Direct Direct Highway Highway Crossing Crossing Permitted Permitted

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www.VisitMoffatCounty.com | 970-824-2335 2015 | colorado Hunter

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Photo By JohN DePAlMA

the CroWn JeWel oF ColorAdo hUnting By Dan Olsen

hile Western Colorado boasts some of the finest bulls in the country, there’s one Holy Grail for hunters that tops everyone’s wish list: Unit 2. Located in the far reaches of Moffat County near the Utah-Wyoming border, the designated “trophy” area harbors more than 200 trophy-sized bulls due to its vast terrain and limited hunting pressure. “Unit 2, along with neighboring GMUs 1, 10 and 201, is managed to produce trophy quality bulls,” says Brad Petch, CPW’s senior wildlife biologist for Northwest Colorado. “Bull elk licenses in this unit are among the most highly sought in Colorado. Bulls scoring above 300 points are common in the unit, and much of the harvest each year consists of bulls that score above 330 points.” Two management strategies, he adds, contribute to these units high number of large bulls: CPW manages them for bulls 6 to 8 years old, compared to over-thecounter units whose bulls are harvested as 2- or 3-year olds; and it manages the units for a high proportion of bulls to cows. “Both of these are accomplished by

limiting hunting opportunity, as measured by the number of available bull licenses,” he says. This means it’s not a gimme to go after these units’ big game. The opportunity to hunt them is determined by a draw-and-point system. Hunters accumulate species-specific preference points each season, oftentimes doing so for many years before drawing a license. Currently, it takes 18 points for a Colorado resident to draw a license in Unit 2, while a non-resident will wait 22 years for the opportunity. And points alone don’t guarantee a license through the draw. The 2014 quota for Unit 2 was 33 hunters, out of 1,293 applicants. Twenty-four licenses went to Colorado residents, five went to non-residents and four to unit landowners. But get one and you’re psyched. Just ask Craig hunter Tony Erickson, who finally got the chance to hunt Unit 2 two years ago. “The hunt was well worth the wait,” he says. “We saw big bulls — 340 point Boone & Crockett bulls — every day within shooting range, less than 300 yards.” Hunters don’t need to hunt each year to gather the points; however, non-hunter preference points —

which were once a minimal $3 fee — jumped to $40 last year for those who didn’t hunt the year before. “The fee increase went into effect to encourage more people to hunt yearly,” says CPW’s Mike Swaro. “People need to have at least an annual fishing license to avoid that charge. It raises additional fees for wildlife management.” Another way to draw a trophy unit hunt is via the hybrid drawing. Enter the draw with at least five preference points, and you’ll be automatically entered into a hybrid draw for a chance to be randomly selected for 20 percent of the licenses issued. Still, over the years, the number of preference points required has climbed as more hunters reach higher totals. An 18-year-old applying for his first Unit 2 preference point may need 22 points or more when his number is called in 2036. For Erickson, his 21-year wait resulted in the hunt of a lifetime. “We called him into range and got him about a half-hour after daylight,” he says. “There were four bulls in the herd, and this was the biggest. What can I say? He was in the meat plant by noon.” 2015 | colorado Hunter

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HOTspots

Unit 2

OUTFITTERS del’s triAngle 3 rAnCh By Austin Colbert

espite being only 44, Rowan “Perk” Heid can already feel his days as the owner and operator of Del’s Triangle 3 Ranch getting fewer and fewer. “Justin, who’s just 12 years old, gets to go on his first elk hunt this fall,” Perk says. “My boys have already decided exactly how they’re going to run it when they take it over. They live it every day and are absolutely a crucial part of what we do out here.” Justin and his 9-year-old brother, Jason, work full-time with their father on their ranch, located a couple miles from Clark in north Routt County. Park is a fifth generation Steamboat Springs local, with some of his ancestors having been homesteaders south of Steamboat. Since the death of Delbert “Delby” Heid, Perk’s uncle, in 1985, Perk has worked alongside his father, Ray Heid — Delby’s brother — as the chief caretakers of the ranch. Del’s Triangle 3 Ranch started in 1962 when Delby bought land with two others with the idea of catering to tourists. “In 1962, when they developed the ski area, they decided to buy the ranch and go into the trail riding business,” Perk says. “Our business at that time became hunting camps, fishing trips and horseback rides. From 1962 to this day, we have still done basically exactly that. Our outfitting number is 22, which makes us probably the oldest operating outfitter in Colorado.” The ranch itself is located on approximately 3,500 acres of land. However, the amount of land they have available to use for hunting increases to nearly a half million acres and includes large swaths of Routt National Forest. The area includes both private and public land, much of which only they are permitted to use. “That’s a huge benefit that they have — that kind of land and options,” says

Del’s triangle 3 has been leading hunting trips for more than 50 years.

hUnt HUMOR 74 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

“Our outfitting number is 22, which makes us probably the oldest operating outfitter in Colorado.” — Perk Heid, chief caretaker of Del’s Triangle 3 Ranch Sam Silva, 40, a longtime family friend and part-time guide for the ranch. “I enjoy just being out there in the wilderness, the camaraderie and excitement of getting another person an experience in their hunt. After growing up hunting, it’s still exciting to get my own, but it’s even better to share it with somebody else.” Silva, a full-time police oﬃcer in Steamboat Springs who once spent a year as a hunting guide in Africa, grew up hunting around Steamboat. Even though he no longer uses his skills as a guide to make a living, his passion for it leads to him using his vacation days each fall to help guide hunters looking to bag elk. On top of the wilderness Del’s Triangle 3 has at its disposal, Silva says its true charm comes from the charismatic nature of Perk and his wife, Becky, who truly find enjoyment in making their guests happy. “Anybody can go out and stumble across an elk, but to make somebody feel welcome and taken care of is a big thing,” Silva says. “Perk and Becky both understand the hospitality side of it. I grew up in the restaurant business and understand the service industry and making people happy. So much of happiness is taking care of people when they are in camp and making them feel welcome.” The ranch provides hunting trips for all three seasons: archery, muzzle-loading and rifle. The normal trip is a five-day expedition into the forest, often on horseback, with elk as the main quarry, although they do occasionally hunt deer. Perk says the ranch typically gets between 50 and 70 hunters per year. “My favorite part is guiding the hunters,” Perk says. “A close second is our trail rides. Both are lots of fun. I can’t imagine a better way to make a living than riding a horse.” The ranch employs six to eight full-time guides during the hunting season, with another four wranglers always on hand to help with the fleet of horses for trail rides, a ranch specialty. Located just 30 minutes north of Steamboat, Del’s Triangle 3 Ranch is full of local history and offers unique experiences for hunters as well as adventures for the entire family. “It’s family owned and operated, and everyone in the family contributes to help make it a success,” Perk says. “It’s fun for those who come out and enjoy a horseback ride and fun for those who come out to hunt.” info: www.steamboathorses.com

What do you get when you cross Bambi with a ghost?

Bamboo.

Q: a:

Who did Bambi invite to his birthday party? His deer-est friends.

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OUTFITTERS

AdAMs lodge oUtFitters FroM BAnKing to oUtFitting oUtside MeeKer

By Dale Shrull

ruce Clatterbaugh was ready to ride off into the sunset when he retired. But he wasn’t quite ready to “retire retire.” After 30 years in the banking business, he decided to call it a career. He was also running a couple hundred head of cattle, but he was ready for something new and exciting. “I was just going to stay home and take care of the cattle,” Clatterbaugh says. Instead, the now 63-year-old decided to get into the outfitter business. A bold move for a former banker who was 58 at the time. “I love horses, and this gave me the opportunity to ride and be around horses more,” he says. After five years running Adams Lodge Outfitters southeast of Meeker with his wife, Jody, he admits it’s a big change from banking. “There’s a lot of work,” he says. “I never thought it would be that much. I feel the aches and pains sometimes.” Clatterbaugh helped start the Mountain Valley Bank in Meeker and worked there for nearly 20 years. With his dad in the guest ranch business in Jackson, Wyoming, when Clatterbaugh was young, it was natural for him to get into something similar. He bought the outfitter business from the Hilkey family, who had run it for generations, including former Mesa County sheriff Stan Hilkey. Hunting season is go-time for outfitters in the Flat Tops region. “There’s a lot of elk up here,” Clatterbaugh says. His business takes hunters into the remote wilderness area in the White River National Forest, where motorized vehicles are not allowed. That means they have drop camps, using horses to get the hunters and their supplies to camps that are set up and ready for guests to arrive. “Everything we do is on horseback,” Clatterbaugh says of getting to the camps. “And 90 percent of our (hunting season) business is elk hunters.” Clatterbaugh’s drop camps are located in the heart

Not a bad oﬃce: Clatterbaugh heads oﬀ to one of his camps.

of elk country, which is why the hunters then do all of their work on foot. Clatterbaugh takes the hunters and their supplies in, but then he leaves with the horses. They will return if they need to pack out an elk and when the hunt is over. “They are already in where the elk are, so they don’t need horses to hunt,” he says. They have hunters for archery, a few muzzleloaders and the first and second rifle seasons, but only a few for the third season. Trips are not offered for the fourth and final rifle season. Clatterbaugh says it’s a rewarding business. “You meet a lot of really good people,” he says. “For the most part, they’re just kind-hearted, great folks.” He jokes about how many hunters say they just love to be in the outdoors and having a successful hunt isn’t a priority. “All the guys say that, but the guys who come home

DoGGone Two deer hunters were not having any luck so they asked for advice from an old timer. “You can just about guarantee a deer if you learn to hunt with dogs,” he said. So they got a trained deer dog and hit the woods. At the end of the day and still empty-handed, one hunter said to the other, “Maybe tomorrow we should throw the dog out of a higher treestand.”

with the biggest smile on their face are usually the ones who got an elk,” he says. He says the hunters who return year after year get a feel for the area, and that usually spells more success. Adams Lodge Outfitters hosts more than 50 hunters every late summer and early fall, with many repeat customers from the Midwest. The company offers more than just hunting excursions. They put in a large fishing camp in the spring near Marvine Lake and pack people in for fishing trips. “We push hard to stay busy all summer,” Clatterbaugh says. “We’re one of the few outfitters up here that offers a lot of summer activities.” He confesses again that it’s hard work and long hours, but well worth it. “I’m a horse guy, and I thoroughly enjoy spending time in the outdoors,” he says. “Plus, I have the best oﬃce in the world.” info: 970-878-4312, www.adamslodgeoutfitters.com

hUnt HUMOR 2015 | colorado Hunter

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GrounD elk toMato sauce With sPaGhetti sQuash

elK RECIPES

By Lauren Blair

hen you have a freezer full of elk, it helps to have a little inspiration about what to do with it. The following recipes cover most of the bases, whether you have company coming over for a summertime dinner on the patio or a hungry family to feed. Elk lends itself well to warm, hearty meals for the long winter months and also pairs well with the bright, fresh flavors of summer. Branch out and try something new. (Recipe results may look diﬀerent than the photos featured.)

• Extra virgin olive oil • 3 onions, chopped • 10-12 cloves garlic, minced • ½ tsp. crushed red pepper (optional) • 2 lb. ground elk meat • ¼- ½ cup red wine • 3 x 28 oz. cans crushed tomatoes • 2 tsp. dried oregano • 2 tsp. dried basil • pinch of sugar, to taste • salt, 1 to 2 tsp. or to taste • black pepper • 1 large or 2 small spaghetti squash, cut in half lengthwise Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and bake face down on a baking sheet in ½ inch of water for approximately 45 to 60 minutes. When the squash is tender, remove from the oven, let cool briefly, then scrape crosswise with a fork to break apart the spaghetti-like flesh. To prepare sauce, sauté onions, garlic and crushed red pepper in a large saucepan in olive oil over medium low heat until onions become translucent. Turn heat up to medium high and add ground elk. Stir frequently, allowing meat to brown. When the meat begins sticking to the pan, deglaze with a splash or two of red wine. Add crushed tomatoes. Bring the sauce to a light simmer and turn heat to low. Let simmer uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, or until sauce has thickened. Add oregano, basil, sugar to taste, salt and black pepper. Let simmer another five minutes and turn heat off. Serve over a big pile of spaghetti squash with freshly grated parmesan cheese. It also goes great over regular pasta.

ATTENTION ALL HUNTERS! Hunt somewHere new

Photo Credit: Dean and Susan Billington at Bull Basin

If you’ve never been hunting out of Kremmling, you are truly missing out on some of the best big game hunting in Colorado! Kremmling is situated in West Grand County bordering Summit, Eagle and Routt Counties, where things are “Untapped, Untamed!” We are surrounded by some of the best elk, deer, mountain lion, and big game hunting in the state. While locals boast that it is still “the way Colorado used to be,” there are many services available to make your hunting trip that much more enjoyable.

The Town of Kremmling offers: • Restaurants • Mercantile • Meat Market • Meat Processing • Indoor Archery Range

UNTAPPE D  UNTAME D

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• Bars • Grocery Store • Taxidermy • Shops • Hot Springs

If you haven’t experienced hunting in Kremmling, come see why it is the best-kept secret! You can hunt on your own or hire one of many experienced local guides to assist you.

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elk FaJitas • 1 lb. elk backstrap • Grapeseed oil • 1 yellow onion, sliced • 1 red bell pepper, sliced • 1 green bell pepper, sliced Fixins: • Corn or flour tortillas • Shredded cheese • Sour Cream • Cilantro, chopped

• Lettuce, chopped spice rub: • 1 tsp. kosher salt • 1 tsp. garlic power • 1 tsp. cumin • ½ tsp. chili powder • ½ tsp. paprika Season whole elk backstrap with ¾ of the spice rub. Cover and let sit for 30 to 60 minutes. Cut the backstrap into thin slices and season with

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the remaining spice rub. Place a cast iron pan on the stove on medium to medium high. When hot, add a couple tablespoons of grapeseed oil, add sliced backstrap and cook for only a few minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add more oil and sauté the vegetables briefly, 3 to 5 minutes, so they are cooked but retain some crunch. Add elk meat back into the pan and remove from heat. Serve on hot tortillas with all the fixin’s! continued on page 81

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Elk roast • 1 to 2 lb. elk backstrap • Oregano • Cumin • Rosemary • Salt • Black pepper • 1 onion, sliced into wedges • 1 to 2 bell peppers, sliced • 2 to 4 anaheim, poblano or jalapeño peppers, chopped • 3 tomatoes, roughly chopped Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Combine about 1 tsp. each of

oregano, rosemary, cumin, kosher salt and about ½ tsp. black pepper in small bowl. Trim backstrap and rub down with the spice mixture. Place onions, peppers and tomatoes in large dutch oven or enameled cast iron pot with lid. Place the roast in the pot with the veggies and bake for 8 to 10 hours. After about five hours, the meat should be tender. Pull meat apart with a fork and place back in the oven for another 3 to 5 hours. Serve over rice or mashed potatoes.

Green chili elk burgers • 2 lb. ground elk meat • 4 to 5 green chilis, diced • 1 tsp. Cajun seasoning Thoroughly mix ground elk with diced green chilis and 1 tsp. Cajun seasoning. Divide the meat into six equally sized patties and press flat. Cook on a grill or on a cast-iron pan on the stovetop, about 3 minutes each side for a rare burger, about 4 minutes for medium-rare or 5 minutes for medium. For spice-lovers: top with pepper-jack cheese and serve with homemade chipotle mayo (blend equal parts mayonnaise and canned chipotle peppers in adobo) and a few slices of avocado. Yum! continued on page 83

2015 | colorado Hunter

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currieD elk anD sWeet Potatoes

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• Coconut oil • 1 onion, diced • 6 cloves garlic, minced • 1 sweet potato, diced • 3 to 4 tsp. curry powder • 1 1/2 tsp. turmeric • 1 1/2 tsp. cumin • 3 tomatoes, diced (more if you like it saucy) • 1 lb. ground elk • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced • 1/2 green bell pepper, diced • 1 jalapeño or chili pepper, diced (optional) • 1 can chickpeas • 1/2 to 1 cup plain yogurt • Salt and cayenne to taste Saute onion in ample coconut oil for a few minutes, then add garlic and sweet potato. Add curry powder, spices and cayenne (optional) and sauté until sweet potato is nearly soft. Add tomatoes and cook for a few minutes — cover with a lid if sweet potato is still not soft. Add ground meat and cook until meat is done. Add bell pepper (and optional jalapeño or chili pepper) and chickpeas and cook for a few minutes, turn oﬀ heat, then stir in yogurt. Salt to taste. Serve over rice with chutney and plain yogurt.

2015 | colorado Hunter

| 83

Fish on!

Angling Options in Western Colorado By Eugene Buchanan

hen you’re not casting your eyes toward ridges for big game, there’s plenty of other casting to do in Northwest Colorado. Rifle or rod, world-class options abound for both pastimes. Whether you’ve filled your tag or simply want a break from the trail, Western Colorado offers hot spots for trout as well as trophy game. From the boundless lakes atop Grand Mesa and the Colorado and Gunnison rivers near Grand Junction, to the White River and lakes of the Flat Tops near Meeker, to the Yampa and Elk rivers near Craig and Steamboat Springs, to the upper Colorado and William’s Fork outside Kremmling, the region has enough worldclass angling options to keep you casting for years. And wetting a line can be the perfect tonic to complement time chasing deer and elk. “It’s the perfect companion activity to hunting,”

maintains Brett Lee, a veteran hunter, fly-fisherman and co-owner of Straightline Sporting Goods in Steamboat Springs. “The whole Northwest Colorado region offers some of the best fishing in the country, from high alpine lakes to cool, clear rivers.” The heart of hunting season is also when fishing is at its best, he adds, with aquatic and insect life teeming. The trout sense the onset of winter, meaning flies and lures don’t go unnoticed. “Fall is one of the best times to fish here,” adds Lee. “Fish know winter’s coming and start feeding.” Following is a primer on where to cast your rod. Rivers Coursing from the Flat Tops Wilderness Area west to its confluence with the Green River, the Yampa River offers more than 100 miles of prime fishing, especially during the cooler hunting months of autumn. Prime public areas include the Stagecoach

Photo by Joel Reichenberger Bag a few trout after bagging your trophy at one of countless fishing holes in Northwest Colorado. 84 | visit www.cohunter.com for more

tailwaters just below Stagecoach Lake, the Chuck Lewis State Wildlife Area three miles south of Steamboat Springs on County Road 14, and the sixmile town stretch, which carries as many as 2,000 trout per mile. For flies, try elk hair caddis, bright green caddis emergers or weighted streamers. The Elk River offers public access upstream of Hinman Park Bridge along Seedhouse Road or at the Christina Wildlife Area along its lower portion on Routt County Road 129 northwest of town. In Jackson County, try the blue ribbon trout waters of the North Platt River, or the countless meandering streams near Walden. Farther south in Grand County near Kremmling, the upper Colorado lures anglers the world over, as does the hidden treasure William’s Fork. Those hunting near Craig can fish for smallmouth bass and northern pike in Elkhead Reservoir and the

Yampa (try white/chartreuse streamers and lures for “smallies”), and also troll these spots for trout. Another world-class option: head west to the Green River in Browns Park, offering blue-ribbon trout fishing on three great sections of water (A, B and C). The area is known for its large brown trout and clear, cold water released from the Flaming Gorge Reservoir. The White River, which flows through Meeker and Rangely, drains the Flat Tops and teems with trout in the fall. Head upstream from Meeker on Moffat County Road 8 toward Buford, where you can branch up the south or north fork, or try the Meeker town stretch, the section between Meeker and Rangley, or the Rangely reach. Near Grand Junction, hit the blue-ribbon Gunnison River Gorge below Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, which attracts anglers all season. Wade fish near the take-out at Gunnison Forks at the confluence of the river’s north fork, or book a float trip through the gorge. lakes and reservoirs For lake fishing, hit any number of reservoirs near Craig and Steamboat (Stagecoach Lake, Steamboat Lake and Elkhead Reservoir). Recent expansions have increased the sizes of Stagecoach and Elkhead. “Colorado Parks and Wildlife has been stocking them with bigger fish than normal to give them a chance to

survive the northern pike,” says Straightline’s Lee. October is when the fish charge out of the depths to feed before winter sets in. Cooler temperatures also bring rainbows back into shallower water. Go early and get your fly down 10 to 11 feet. Boat rentals are available at the marinas of Stagecoach and Steamboat Lake. For fly patterns, try woolly buggers in olive, black and brown to imitate minnows. As water temperatures drop, slow your reeling motion, adds Lee. “Autumn’s cold water dictates a slower retrieve,” says Lee, touting crayfish patterns as a good bet. Countless smaller lakes also exist for dipping a line. On the other side of the Park Range from Steamboat, in Jackson County, lie Delaney Buttes lakes, which offer free camping, as well as Big Creek Lake and Lake John. In the Flat Tops Wilderness Area, Trapper’s Lake, where you can rent canoes, rowboats and rustic accommodations, as well as Chapman, Sheriff and Stillwater reservoirs and the smaller Rainbow and Mosquito lakes, also offer great fishing options. North of Steamboat, Hahn’s Peak and Pearl lakes, as well as the alpine lakes of the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area, serve up prime angling, as do the more than 200 stocked lakes atop 10,000-foot-high Grand Mesa near Grand Junction (favorites include the Gold Medal waters of Mesa Lakes, as well as Cottonwood Lakes and Vega Reservoir). Several fishing lodges on Grand Mesa stay open through the fall.

rules anD reGulations A Colorado fishing license is required for all anglers 16 and older. non-resident fees Annual — $56 Five-day — $21 One-day — $9 resident fees Annual — $26 Seniors (64 and older) — $1 License holders must also purchase a Colorado Wildlife Habitat Stamp for $10. colorado fishing regulations for trout Daily bag limit — four fish in aggregate Possession limit — eight fish in aggregate The Steamboat stretch of the Yampa is flies and lures/catch-and-release only. info: www.wildlife.state.co.us, 800-244-5613

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2015 | colorado Hunter

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HUNTINGtAles g-15 nAnnY goAt BoW hUnt By Bill Van Ness

hold goats — Byers Peak Wilderness, Jones Pass and

slipped up and around the Citadel to look at the south

decided early in 2014 to use my Colorado Mountain Goat points on an easier-to-draw Nanny Goat tag in unit G-15. The unit is from Loveland Pass, north to Winter Park and west to Colorado Highway 9, and encompasses some super rugged terrain with a lot of elevation over 12,000 feet. Colorado Parks and Wildlife issues a higher number of goat tags in this area to keep them in check due to the exceptional bighorn sheep population in the area (sheep are indigenous to Colorado and mountain goats are not). I spent three full days scouting the usual areas that

Herman Lake. The goats at Herman Lake were readily

face, and sure enough, there they were: nine goats,

visible but tough to get close to as they hang in the

with multiple legal nannies in the group.

cliffs high above the lake and rarely venture down during daylight hours.

I snuck to about 110 yards and ran out of cover so I decided to just stand up and slowly walk at an angle

Sleep came easy the night before opening morning

toward them while letting them see me. Sometimes in

in the Herman Lake lot, with the hum of Interstate 70

these high hiker population areas this can work. Well,

and dreams of goats in high places. I left the lot at 4:45

not today. After about 10 steps, they busted up the

a.m. and made the 3-mile trek to my vantage point

mountain heading for a saddle between Pettingel

above the lake before dawn. As the sun rose, to my

Peak and the Citadel.

surprise, there were no goats visible anywhere. So I

I immediately turned around and ran up and out

scrambled up the ridge to the north, and still no goats.

of sight to the ridge top. There, I scrambled on a goat

I scrambled, slid and rolled back down the ridge,

trail to the saddle they were heading toward, nocked

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an arrow and dropped to a knee. Mere seconds went by, and I caught a glimpse of white fur coming about 50 yards below me. It was the lead nanny, and if she kept on that path, she’d be 38 yards and broadside in just a few steps. She kept coming, and I drew. Since the wind was howling from right to left, I decided to aim slightly forward. Then, calmly as I could, I released the shot. The arrow hit right where I aimed, which at first worried me, but when I saw her stumble in just a few steps, I felt better. Then a goat hunter’s worst nightmare: She proceeded to jump off the edge of a 75-foot cliff and rolled about 500 yards down. It was good in that she was mine for sure, but what was left? As I approached I was relieved to see her intact and not in bad shape at all. On another note, just as I had slipped in front of the goats and drew my bow, a pair of other hunters had come over the ridge and watched it all go down from 100 yards behind me. It’s not often that you get an audience at 13,000 feet. And while the hunt as a whole was tough and had its frustrating moments, in the end, I was rewarded with a massive pack of wonderful meat and a trophy I’ll cherish forever.

the author and his goat at 13,000 feet.

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SKILLsets hUnting sAFetY By Eugene Buchanan

hile hunting accidents are getting fewer, there are still too many. “Hunting is safe and getting safer,” says CPW hunter education coordinator Mark Cousins, “but one moment of carelessness can have drastic consequences.” The state sells more than 560,000 hunting licenses every year, resulting in several million hunter recreation days. Since the passage of two laws in 1970 -one requiring hunter education training and another requiring wearing at least 500 square inches of fluorescent orange clothing -- hunting accidents have dropped. But even one accident is too many. Almost all hunting accidents can be avoided by exercising care, Cousins adds. Safety measures include familiarizing yourself with your gun or bow at a range beforehand; exercising caution when loading and unloading, well away from your vehicle (it’s illegal to place a loaded firearm in or on a vehicle and to hunt from one); and unloading when you’re crossing streams and fences and hiking in rough terrain.

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After the hunt, unload your gun before getting to the vehicle or camp, and triple-check it before placing it in a case or vehicle. “At the end of a long day, it’s important to be extra careful with firearms,” Cousins says. basic safety rules: ■ Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. ■ Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times. ■ Be sure of your target — what is in front of it and what is beyond it. ■ If you’re in doubt about the target, don’t shoot. ■ Keep the safety on and your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. ■ Never place your hand over the muzzle of a gun. ■ Load and unload your gun at least 100 yards from your vehicle. ■ Don’t hurry while loading or unloading. ■ Talk about safety issues with youngsters and less experienced hunters. ■ Stop to rest when you are out of breath. ■ Wear daylight fluorescent clothing when and where required.

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COnCerned abOut a family member Or a friend? are they Suicidal? – Depressed, angry, impulsive?

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2015 | colorado Hunter

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SKILLsets

Consistent sUCCess

3 ColorAdo nAtiVes shAre tips oF the trAde By Eugene Buchanan

et’s face it: some hunters are just more successful than others. They get an elk year in and out, often a trophy, and enjoy full freezers year-round. We went to three such hunters from Northwest Colorado and got them to share some of their secrets to consistent success.

t.J. thrasher Longtime Steamboat Springs hunter T.J. Thrasher started as a rifle hunter before finding archery to be more rewarding as an adult. He’s been hunting for more than 25 years and has bagged an elk nearly every single one of them. “It’s not something I’ve really ever taken the time to think about,” says the owner of tree and turf care company Sol Solutions, “but it’s close to as many years as I’ve hunted. I trophy hunt elk on public land and pass at least 10 legitimate shots on bulls for each P+Y class bull I have an opportunity at.”

t.J. thrasher after practicing what he preaches. 90 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

leave the calls at home “Even if you don’t know your neighbors’ names, chances are you would recognize their voices. Elk are no different. On public lands elk are called to often and can easily distinguish an elk from a human. This is especially true with bugling. At the very least you’re letting the elk know where you are, and at the worst (and more common), the bull will take his harem and leave. He’d rather avoid a challenge, regardless of whether it’s with another elk or a human.” hunt diﬀerent areas “Just because it was good last year or even yesterday doesn’t mean the animals are there today. One hunter can move game out of an area without even knowing it. Many people come to town and set up camp focusing their efforts on an area they know from previous experiences. This continued daily pressure all but ensures limited success. At a very minimum be willing to move daily if not throughout the day.”

spend time afield “There is nothing more important to success than time dedicated to achieve it. As with anything in life, the more time you dedicate to something the more likely you are to succeed. Start with scouting; you’ll be around animals and become familiar with interacting with game. As well as gaining more knowledge, more time also means more opportunity. Even if game encounters are “by chance,” it will lead to more chances.” learn to interact with game “Animals understand their environment. Your urgency and nerves will be felt by them. Learn to stay calm and participate in the animals’ activities calmly; you’ll be far less likely to scare them, even if they know you are there. Experiment with mannerisms with the small game you’re around during the day.” Wind “If the wind is wrong, you lose. Period.” continued on page 93

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SKILLsets Bill Van Ness exercising his plan C.

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scout with a purpose “Spend time in potential hunting areas and keep an eye out for little details. Rubs on trees from previous years can show potential rutting areas even if there are no bulls in the area. Find cow elk in August and bulls will be there in September almost guaranteed. Also, pay attention to small water sources and wallows; during the rut they’ll be a hub of action if there are animals in the area. I’m also a firm believer in trail cameras; they let you take inventory of game in an area. It’s an outstanding advantage.” be in shape, pack right and practice your shot “Being ready for the mountains is paramount. We will never move through the mountains as well as an elk or deer, but lessening the gap and being able to gain that next ridge increases your odds of success. The physical

have a plan a, b and c “This is a top secret to success. A lot of people say they’re hunting in spot “X” tomorrow, and that’s what they do. If there’s no game there, they come back stumped and dejected. If it’s elk season in the rut I like to start early, get to plan A an hour before light and listen. As the sun starts to lighten the horizon and there are no bugles, I move to plan B. which could be the next drainage over or the next ridge line to glass. All the while I’m moving with a purpose and paying attention to the wind. Then I might move to plan C for the middle of the day...maybe a waterhole sit or across from timber where there’s a good chance of elk bedding. You can glass the timber and get a head start as they rise in the afternoon. Never stop moving with a purpose and always pay attention to the wind.”

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Longtime Steamboat Springs hunter Cedar Beauregard, 42, the owner of Beauregard Construction Co., has been hunting for 30 years and has “lost count” of how many elk he’s gotten. The last time he didn’t get one was 20 years ago in 1995. “I missed the same bull three times and never connected with him,” he says. “I had target panic really bad and that was a huge hurdle to overcome.” Primarily an archery hunter, he does some muzzeloading and a little rifle, but says the bow gives him the most time in the woods and best encounters. leave the calls at home “I haven’t left the house with a call in years. It wasn’t easy to do at first. It’s super fun to call in elk, and once in a while, a bull will come in. But it’s not the most eﬃcient way to kill an elk, especially one with age and experience with hunters. Most of the time you’re simply letting them know where you are and forcing them to take a quiet exit. Countless times I’ve been within 100 yards of a nice herd with a bull only to have them bumped by a trumpet-playing hunter. Usually they won’t vocalize until their exit has been determined.” Practice patience “This plays into the leaving the calls at home point. Most of the time elk won’t get vocal until they start the morning migration from feeding to their bedding continued on page 94

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SKILLsets

Bill Van Ness has been archery hunting for more than 30 years, from taking his first deer at age 13 to harvesting elk, mule deer, bear, mountain lion, antelope, bighorn sheep and mountain goat in Northwest Colorado. When not cleaning carpets for his Steamboat Carpet Care company, you’ll find him traipsing the countryside for trophies, drawing back while most others are going back to the drawing board.

effort to take down an elk is important but the work truly begins when the animal is on the ground. I hunt prepared to break down the animal and at least take a load of meat out without having to retrieve gear. This means hunting with a decent pack with things like knives and gamebags; one extra trip can be a gamechanger. Also practice with your method of take, be it bow, gun or muzzleloader. I like to create stressful practice situations, such as sprinting around my home, doing three burpees and then grabbing my bow and making a 30-yard shot. It’s a different kind of stress but makes you create the “tunnel of focus” as you draw and aim. Be physically ready and make a solid, ethical shot.”

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continued from page 93 area. That can be almost 9 a.m. Most hunters have already stomped through the area blowing their calls without even noticing that they walked right through a herd, blowing them out into the next valley. Learn to read the sign or glass them until you’re confident where and when they frequent an area. Once you have this knowledge, intercept them as they go from A to B. The hardest part about this hunt is waiting. It’s not easy to maintain the confidence that they’ll vocalize eventually or will move in your direction. You must exercise patience.” hunt scientifically “Use the scientific method to plan and execute your hunt. Often while reading sign you’ll think, ‘Boy, if I stay here between 2 p.m. until dark I’m bound to see an elk walk by with the wind in my face at 20 yards.’ While the idea is easy, it’s the execution that’s hard. Execute that hypothesis to its end. If you quit the plan halfway because you second guess yourself after a few hours, nothing has been learned. But if you stick it out and no elk came by or some came by but downwind of you, you’ve learned a valuable lesson and the next ‘experiment’ can be executed with that knowledge. The next time you might try sitting in a tree to mask your scent line and you tag a nice bull. Bottom line: Come up with a plan and diligently execute it so you can evaluate the results with real data and start over better prepared.“

Cedar Beauregard seeing his patience pay oﬀ.

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CabinsInColumbine.com · Clark, Colorado · 970-879-5522 94 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

Work &Play

THE BASICS FOR

T S E B ECTION SEL

From Carhartt to Under Armour, Murdoch’s has you covered!

Stop by Murdoch’s Ranch & Home Supply for the best selection of boots, clothing, and hunting supplies for your next outdoor adventure. From maps to knives, calls to camping gear – if we have it, you probably need it!

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2015 colorado Hunter | 95 AUTO * TOOLS * FENCING * CLOTHING * ANIMAL HEALTH * TACK * PET * FOOTWEAR * HARDWARE * LAWN & GARDEN

SKILLsets

the rAngeFinder rAge By Tom Ross

he days when big game hunters had to rely on dead reckoning to determine the distance to a trophy bull are long gone. Affordable laser rangefinders have taken much of the guesswork out of one of the most critical judgments a hunter needs to make. A laser rangefinder can help hunters sight-in their rifles, calculate the distance to prominent landmarks that are visible from a hunting stand and confirm the distance to a target. Their need is based on Newtonian physics, which maintains that no matter how high a projectile’s velocity, gravity exerts the same force on it as if it were dropped motionless. That means a bullet falls toward the ground from the moment it leaves the barrel. Steamboat Springs hunter Bill McKelvie says his Bushnell rangefinder is the first piece of equipment he turns to whenever he sets up in a new area for a stationary hunt. “As soon as I sit down in a spot, I get out my rangefinder,” he says. “I’ll pick out a clump of trees and find it’s 300 yards away and a big rock and find out it’s 400 yards away.” Before any elk come into view, McKelvie already has established valuable information that will let him assess whether his trophy is in range. Laser rangefinders made by such companies as Nikon, Tasco, Leica and Bushnell cost $170 to $3,000. They work by calculating the time it takes for a pulse of infrared light to travel from the device to the target and back. Utilizing a different technology from surveying instruments, which rely on light wavelengths, the narrower a rangefinder’s beam of light, the more accurate they are in bright light and haze. Hunters pay a premium for the narrowest laser beams.

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The first thing a rangefinder does is help hunters make ethical decisions about whether to take a shot. “You might see what appears to be a big trophy and think it’s at 400 yards and be tempted to take a shot,” McKelvie says. “But then your rangefinder says it’s actually at 700 yards.” Their effective use begins before heading into the field. Hunters go to the rifle range and select a distance at which to sight-in so they can adjust their scopes to account for gravity. They make decisions based on such factors as terrain, rifle type, bullet trajectory and comfort level with their marksmanship. Judgment also comes into play. It’s rare that a bull enters a clearing at precisely the distance a hunter has set his sights in the rangefinder. But when a hunter has used one to gauge the distance to a stand of trees and can quickly confirm target range, he or she is much better informed when deciding to set the crosshairs three inches above the kill zone.

archerY ranGeFinDers Rangefinders are crucial for archery hunters, also, especially ones with Angle Range Compensation. Arrows, unlike bullets, don’t travel in a straight trajectory if shot from long distances. “If the trajectory changes from a straight shot to an uphill or downhill shot, the ARC technology helps,” says local archery hunter Ben Rice, a former manager of Meeker’s Rocky Mountain Bow Strings. “With a 45- or 50-degree angle, the arrow has to travel an additional one to three yards. From 30, 40 or 50 yards out, knowing the exact trajectory with the ARC can be exceedingly helpful.”

LOOK UP BEFORE YOU SHOOT!

Be careful of overhead powerlines while hunting. Every year electric infrastructure is used for target practice resulting in dangerous and costly damage. These repair costs impact everyone’s cost of electricity.

Target practice is for the gun range! Have a Safe and Fun Hunting Season

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elK 101

ColorAdo pArKs And WildliFe oUtreACh progrAM By Dave Buchanan

ometimes, you just have to bite the bullet and admit you don’t know everything. Most experienced elk hunters are quite happy with their level of expertise, even while admitting they don’t get an elk every year. Or even every other year. Or even ... According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, out of the roughly 218,000 elk hunters last year, a meager number went home with meat for the freezer. Some hunting seasons produce a higher success rate than others. For example, general-season rifle hunters killed elk at a 21 percent rate while the 112 hunters participating in the limited early high-country season bagged elk at an 88 percent rate, killing 99 elk. Those hunters participating in the Ranching For Wildlife program scored at 71 percent, including 1,256 bulls harvested. Even muzzleloaders, trying to get close enough to send a black-powder projectile into an elk, managed a 19-percent success rate. If you’re on the wrong end of those scores, wondering how to increase your chance of success,

CPW has a potential solution. Each summer the Northwest Region offers several “Elk Hunting 101” classes (as well as deer and pronghron hunting classes), free, one-night seminars co-sponsored by the Rocky Mountain Elk Federation. “It doesn’t matter if you’ve been hunting for years or this is your first time in the field, you will benefit from this seminar,” says Dick Severin, assistant hunter outreach coordinator for CPW. “We can’t guarantee success, but we can sure help you increase your chances.” Part of CPW’s Hunter Outreach Program, primarily aimed at inexperienced hunters, the classes cover a wide range of topics, including basic elk biology, what they eat, migration patterns and calling field dressing techniques. But even experienced hunters looking for an extra edge can use a refresher, and that’s where these Elk 101 and their partner Mule Deer 101 seminars come in. “Learning as much as you can about animals’ behavior is one of the most important things you can do,” says Severin. “And while they include a lot

WILDLIFE LAWYERS

hunter outreach ProGraMs The Hunter Outreach Program teaches novice and inexperienced hunters—of all ages—the knowledge, skills, ethics and traditions of hunting. ■ Youth programs ■ Women Afield ■ Novice Hunter programs ■ Elk Hunting University ■ Clinics and seminars ■ Huntsman & Huntsmasters

of great information, the discussions and exchange of experiences with other hunters and the instructors is also beneficial.” Specialized seminars such as “Field Dressing Big Game” are also offered. Perhaps the crown jewel is the Elk Hunting University, a free online resource offering elk-hunting tips to Colorado hunters from Colorado hunters through articles, videos and stories by experienced hunters. info: cpw.state.co.us

Contact Country Living Realty.

A DIVISION OF FELDMANN NAGEL, LLC 943 Routt Forest ∙ MLS #126825 ∙ $220,000

Relentless Defenders of Those Accused of Hunting and Wildlife Violations 3700 CR 45 MLS #138633 $299,900.

Also, can we add our website • Citation Defense below our phone number as • Crop and Pasture Leasing • Hunting Rights well? /Landowner Liability • Hunting Leases

943 Routt Forest ∙ MLS #126825 ∙ $220,000 Custom 3 bedroom + loft log cabin close to Routt National Forest with amazing views. Perfect retreat in the summer or to snowmobile into during the winter months. This is ideal for hunters being so close to the forest. Great carpentry throughout, full kitchen with propane refrigerator, bathrooms, all set up with generator and cistern. Seller has engaged well driller, well to be drilled soon! Call for more details!

• Revocation Appeals

• Outﬁtter Management /Liability

35321 N Hwy 13 ∙ MLS # 138479 ∙ $389,000.00 Country Living close to town with no dirt roads to travel. Located on pine tree lined lot only 5 miles from town. Beautiful one level home with fireplace, central air, covered front and back deck. 40x48 dream shop with extra 24x24 upstairs storage. 20x32 greenhouse, 12x20 storage shop, insulated chicken house and three 1,000 gal. propane tanks. 7 ft deer fence with locking gates

• LACEY Act Violations

(800) 817-1106 | www.wildlifelawyer.com Offices in Denver, Boulder, Steamboat Springs and Avon/Vail

98 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

409 CR 20 ∙ MLS # 139322 ∙ $265,000.00 Take a look at this 4 bdrm home on 36.95 acres! Great horse property, good well that pumps into cistern, no hauling water. New well installed in 2002 and new well pump installed in 2014. Coal/wood stove that heats the whole house! Only 6 miles from town on a well-maintained county road. Large shop that is fully insulated with a concrete floor & 220. Several outbuildings, seasonal pond & stream, fenced & cross-fenced. Landscaped yard & wrap-around deck to sit & enjoy the views, or enjoy sitting in the hot tub! Good internet access from Zirkel wireless tower. Master bedroom has balcony and vanity/sink in room. Hobby room, laundry area, & lots of extra storage in the basement! Plus lots of wildlife: deer, antelope, elk, fox, & more! Call today to schedule a showing!

3700 CR 45 ∙ MLS #138633 ∙ $299,900 Good taste radiates throughout this mint condition 3 bdrm, 3 bath home w/an open floor plan South of Hamilton. Priceless views! You’ll love the seclusion from the rear covered patio & the stars at night & mountains during the day from the expansive deck off the front. Lots of top of the line windows to take in the amazing views and countryside. You’ll love the large kitchen w/island that flows nicely into the living room & dining area featuring hardwood floors. There’s a large family room that walks out to a concrete patio. 3 car attached finished garage w/220 & maintenance free exterior. Only 30 minutes to Craig, and about 10 minutes to Colowyo for work. This is a great family home or great hunting property as it backs up to BLM and the area is known for it’s excellent hunting.

countryliving@qwestoffice.net 304 West Victory Way Craig, Colorado 81625 970.824.0223 http://www.craigcorealty.com Like us on Facebook For addition listings and available rentals, visit www.craigcorealty.com

You can depend on Cook Chevrolet & Subaru and Cook Ford for all your vehicle needs. Factory Trained Techs Full Service, Parts, & Body Shop

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lanning to go hunting? First, you’ll have to take your hunter education test. Implemented in the 1970s, hunter education tests are mandatory before getting a license. And the program has worked; in the program’s first 10 years, fatalities decreased by more than 50 percent. “Hunting is now one of the safest outdoor activities you can do,” says CPW’s Mike Porras, “and those tests have contributed greatly to its safety.” Hunter education teaches how to safely handle firearms before, during and after a hunt, plus such skills as wildlife identification, how to hunt ethically, and the requirement of wearing neon orange. Students also learn basic survival skills and how to deal with crises in the wilderness. CPW encourages anyone who spends time outdoors, not just hunters, to enroll in the classes. Available year-round, the classes cost $10 to $20, depending on the course, and consist of 10 hours of training, a live-fire exercise and a final exam. They’re available to hunters of all ages, as well as people with disabilities. Options include Standard Hunter Education, Internet courses and crash courses, as well as such specialty options as Field Dog Training, Turkey Hunting, Navigation and Predator Calling. Upon completion, students receive a hunter education card, which they need to get a license. info: www.cpw.state.co.us

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10 tips

SKILLsets

UnderstAnding points

YOUR LAST-MINUTE CAMPING SOLUTION!

aah, the preference point game. The coveted way to gain access to that oncein-a-lifetime, long-awaited trophy unit. But how do you play the game and best increase your chances? Following is an 10-tip rundown of how they work.

One preference point is awarded to hunters who apply properly and are unsuccessful in drawing a license for a first-choice hunt code for big-game species. You may apply for a preference point as your first-choice hunt code. Hunters who make an application error, including on first-choice hunt codes, do not get a point.

2 3 4 5

Youths can apply for a point if they turn 12 by Dec. 31 of the application year.

6 7 8

Priority goes to those with the most points, except when the license quota or non-resident cap would be exceeded.

If you are issued a first-choice license, all accumulated preference points for that species become void and return to zero. If unsuccessful for a first choice, your accumulated points will be listed on your refund, leftover-drawing application or other-choice license.

Points accumulate until you draw a first-choice license. If you fail to apply for or have not purchased a license during a 10-year period, all accumulated points for that species are purged from your record and become void.

Group application priority is based on the member with the fewest points.

Hunters will be automatically assessed $40 per species ($30 for resident deer and pronghorn) for a preference point unless they’ve purchased one of the following: an annual fishing, small-game, resident combination small-game and fishing, furbearer or a big-game license in the previous year; or a current limited license in the draw for the same species for which they seek a point. The point fee is waived for youths, lifetime license holders, free senior annual fishing license holders and residents in the military on active duty outside Colorado. Example: If a non-resident (who isn’t exempt from the fee) receives a point for all four species, they will be charged $160. A resident would be charged $140. If you’re charged the preference-point fee, it will be removed from your big-game application refund. To avoid the fee, you have until March 31, 2016, to purchase an annual fishing or small game license. Weighted preference increases your probability of drawing a moose license. It is calculated by converting your application number into a different application number, then dividing that new number by the amount of weighted points you have, plus one. Applications are sorted by this new number from lowest to highest; low numbers for each hunt code are awarded licenses. You can have a maximum of three points for moose. If you have three and you fail to draw a first-choice license, you receive weighted preference for moose.

Preference points are not transferable. Points are awarded for specific species, not by hunt codes or method of take.

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o home with a trophy, not a ticket. That’s the message from game wardens, who remind hunters that violations can result in fines and the loss of hunting privileges. “Know your responsibilities,” says wildlife manager Rick Basagoitia. “Wildlife laws are written for your safety and to protect a valuable resource.” Common violations include: not wearing fluorescent orange You must wear at least 500 inches of daylight fluorescent orange, plus a head covering of the same color. Camouflage orange or mesh orange do not qualify. carrying loaded firearms in or on vehicles Rifles must not have ammunition in the chamber while in or on any motor vehicles. For those riding

ATVs, weapons (rifles and bows) must also be in a closed case and fully unloaded (chamber and magazine). Most accidents involving firearms occur in or near vehicles. shooting from a road Before firing a shot, you must be at least 50 feet off of a designated state or county road, and just off Forest Service or BLM roads. license not voided After you kill an animal, you must void the license immediately. improperly attached carcass tag The carcass tag must be attached to the animal. The best way is to cut a hole in the hide and attach with a tie. It is OK to wait until you get back to camp or to your vehicle to attach the carcass tag.

How do you save a deer during hunting season?

You hang on for deer life.

hUnt HUMOR

no evidence of sex Be sure to leave evidence of sex naturally attached to the carcass. Evidence includes the head, the ovum or the scrotum. Wasting game meat Big game meat can begin to spoil at 38 degrees. To keep the carcass cool, remove the hide as soon as possible after the kill to allow air to circulate around the meat. Reduce the mass of the carcass by quartering and/or boning the meat. Place the meat in a cooler quickly (don’t hang outside for more than 36 hours). shooting a spike-antlered elk Hunters who hold a cow elk tag sometimes shoot spike bulls. Be sure of your target; it can often be diﬃcult to see spike antlers. If you’re not absolutely sure, don’t shoot. illegal tagging You can only place a tag on an animal that you shot (no trading tags with other license holders).

Specializing in Unguided “Do it Yourself” Hunts & Extreme Guided Hunts

Come hunt our Private Ranches for the Hunt of a lifetime for Elk/Mule Deer or Antelope. Our Private Ranch Do-It-Yourself hunts in Southeast Colorado are producing some of the largest trophy bulls in the state. Elk/Mule Deer Hunts are in GMU’s 85. Antelope hunts are in the Eastern Plains GMU 133 & 134 and offer many premier trophy bucks. We have several Ranches to choose from with a minimum group of four to six hunters per Ranch. We also provide Guided hunts Archery / Muzzeloader / Rifle hunts that continue to provide great Elk • Deer • Mountain Lion • Anelope success rates.

Unguided Do-It-Yourself Private Ranch Hunts Tom Kimble • Colorado License #2748 • (304) 358-3252 www.coloradotwinpeaks.com • info@coloradotwinpeaks.com

2015 | colorado Hunter

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SKILLsets

AVoid ViolAtions

reAderPHOTOS

Father and son, Brian and David White, of Michigan.

eli gomez practicing his Colorado elk call.

Chris Johniken poses with a bull elk taken in MoďŹ&#x20AC;at County.

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Private Ranches in Colorado, ranging from 1000 to 5000 acres Elk, Mule Deer and Antelope Starting at $1900 per person

Lot 598 in Wilderness Ranch Subdivision is a really nice 5.22 acre lot in protected valley, has good view, with easy access and several good building sites for a cabin.

This 258 acre ranch has approximately 160 acres in hay and grass, 20 dry crop land, 70 acres pasture, and the balance is the home site. Property has 2 mobiles, outbuildings, wells, springs, ponds and good soil. Property is fenced and cross fenced except a 1500â&#x20AC;&#x2122; boundary.

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Nice rolling property bordered by BLM and state land. This 323 acre parcel is isolated but accessible. Best use would be a base camp area for seasonal hunting opportunities.

624 Eagle Drive ~ MLS #124968 ~ $17,500 3031 County Rd 30 ~ MLS #133141~ $350,000

www.RockyMountainHunting.com (970) 439-1894 Info@RockyMountainHunting.com

County Rd 123, Maybell MLS #138127 ~ $219,800

See us at www.craighomefinder.com 840 West Victory Way | Craig, CO 81625

reAderPHOTOS

Kathy White captures a herd of mule deer outside Meeker.

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2015 | colorado Hunter

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Russell & Mary Edith Stacy --- Joe Gutierrez

OFFERING top-quality deer and elk hunts in the Strawberry Creek area

GMU 211 Colorado Outfitter #2648 Bonded & Insured Phone 318-352-3849

Part of this operation is conducted on the public land under special permit from the U.S. Beureau of Land Management.

www.strawberrycreekoutfitters.net

106 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

reAderPHOTOS

Find the elk antlers: lance Poole captures a surreal scene in Northwest Colorado.

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Your first stop before the Hunting Season! Locally Owned for 36 Years

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reAderPHOTOS

helen harris of oklahoma poses with her take from 2014.

Katelynn Baker, 12, celebrates a Moﬀat County mule deer.

Kelly Weber taking to the trail.

Kate and Fred lemom with their late-season bull taken outside Craig.

WELCOME HUNTERS! Open for early morning breakfast

The Care You Count On... To get you back to your outdoor adventures • Chest Pains? • Hunting Injuries? • Muscle Strains & Sprains?

• Lacerations? • Breathing Problems? • Allergic Reactions?

Pioneers Medical Center offers the care you count on for a broad range of services: • 24/7 Emergency Department (with air transport services for severely injured patients who need advanced care after stabilization)

• Cardiac Life Support • Trauma Life Support • Imaging Center • Cardiopulmonary Services • Meeker Family Health Center (For routine or non-emergency care) ES

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2015 | colorado Hunter

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reAderPHOTOS lester Welch and his archery season bull.

Mackinzie Marshall poses with her best buck ever.

Shamra grajeda and her six-point from last season.

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At diamond peak outfitters we provide an experience that is unrivaled. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been scouting and guiding area 2 and 201 for over 20 years. This is our home. Our premier hunts, exceptional guides and authentic Greek hospitality makes your visit a true once in a lifetime adventure. Come experience our culture, where we live and the thrill of the hunt.

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VisiT our websiTe or call us for more informaTion and phoTos. John raftopoulos 970-326-8620

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angelo raftopoulos 970-756-8600 2015 | colorado Hunter

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Colorado Outfitters License #1542

HUNTINGdireCtorY Western colorado Guides & outfitters .......................112 craig region...................119 [including Meeker, Maybell, Hamilton, Rangely, Dinosaur] Gear, Goods & Supplies ......... 119 Meat Processing & Taxidermy .. 119 Licensing Agents ...................120 Shooting Ranges ...................120 Lodging & Dining ..................120 Other Supporting Businesses ...121 Real Estate ............................121 Shopping ..............................122 Churches ............................. 123 Grand Junction region ....124 [including Glenwood Springs, Rifle, Montrose, Durango] Gear, Goods & Supplies .........124 Meat Processing, Taxidermy & Fur Dealers ..................................125 Licensing Agents ...................126 State Parks ............................129 Other Supporting Businesses 129 steamboat springs region ...........................132 [including Hayden, Walden, Oak Creek, Yampa, Kremmling, Granby] Gear, Goods & Supplies .........132 Meat Processing & Taxidermy ..133 Licensing Agents ...................133 Shooting Ranges ...................133 Dining ...................................134 Lodging.................................134 Miscellaneous .......................134 Real Estate ............................135 colorado Visitor info .......136

Western coloraDo GuiDes & outFitters 2V outfitters, ltd.

7380 Ds Drive, Glade Park 970-245-0436 bc@2voutfitters.com www.2voutfitters.com

4+2t ranch

P.O. Box 896, Hayden 970-276-4283 www.huntco4plus2tranch.com

adams lodge outfitters

6389 Rio Blanco County Road 4, Meeker 970-878-4312 www.adamslodgeoutfitters.com

aspen Way llama rentals

North of Colorado Highway 134 (Gore range) 970-724-9629

bar Diamond ranch, llc

P.O. Box 688, Hotchkiss 970-527-3010, Fax: 970-527-3416 www.bardiomandranch.com

bear Mountain ranch

7401 U.S. Highway 40, Kremmling 970-724-9651 www.bearmountainranch.net

bearcat outfitters

P.O. Box 110, Craig (28 miles south of Craig) 970-824-7958 www.coloradoelkhunts.net

beaver creek outfitters

Craig-based outfitter with full-service guided elk and deer hunts (archery, muzzleloader and rifle) and drop camps into the Flat Tops Wilderness Area (GMU 12) and other public private lands (GMUs 4, 441 and 214). Also offers wilderness pack trips. 19362 Glacier Road, Clearbrook, Minnesota 218-368-3679 www.huntbeavercreek.com

beaver springs

15800 W. Fifth Ave., Golden 303-961-4603 www.beaverspringscolo.com

behrman outfitting

P.O. Box 172, Maybell 970-272-3284 www.behrmanoutfitting.com

big Gulch ranching for Wildlife P.O. Box 1342, Craig 970-824-6933 www.bgwildlife.com

big rack outfitters

Fair chase guided, semi-guided and do-it-yourself hunts including deer, elk, antelope and black bear. Over 30,000 acres of private land hunting.

112 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

Archery, muzzleloader and rifle hunts. GMUs 3, 301, 4, 13, 131, 211, 441. Over 20 years outfitting hunters in Craig. Ranching for wildlife hunts also available. 42755 Routt County Road 8 970-826-4468 bigrack@bigrack.com www.bigrack.com

biggerstaff Guides & outfitters P.O. Box 23187, Glade Park 970-210-1032 biggerstaffguides@yahoo.com www.biggerstaffguides.com

bray ranches

P.O. Box 65, Redvale 970-327-4779 or 970-729-1954 Fax: 970-327-4776 robert@brayranches.com www.brayranches.com

bryce outfitting

20439 E Road, Delta 970-874-4134 or 970-270-3586 brycehunts@yahoo.com www.bryceoutfitting.com

buck Mountain outfitters

22990 Routt County Road 54 (15 minutes northwest of Steamboat) 970-870-9665 www.buckmountainoutfitters.net

buck’s livery, inc.

61 La Plata County Road 248, Durango 970-385-2110 or 970-749-0858 info@buckslivery.com www.buckslivery.com

buﬀalo creek ranch

P.O. Box 2, Rand, 970-723-4045 www.buﬀalocreek.com

buford Guide service

chris Jurney outfitting

574 Legion St., Craig, 970-824-5505 www.cjoutfitters.com

circle k Guest ranch

27758 Colorado Highway 145, Dolores 970-562-3826 vacation@ckranch.com www.ckranch.com

co hunter llc, the

651 Clearview Drive, Clifton, 970-623-0399

coberly creek outfitters

All our guides are First Aid and CPR certified and possess a thorough knowledge of our private land and permit area. Their understanding and knowledge of the local wildlife habits give hunters the best opportunity for a successful hunt. 35591 Colorado Highway 134, P.O. Box 185 Toponas, 970-638-4281 www.coberlycreekoutfitters.com

code of the West outfitters

High country fishing and big game hunting trips as well as summer pack trips and cabin stays. Our guides are friendly, courteous professionals who are medic First Aid-trained. 2655 Rio Blanco County Road 12, Meeker 970-878-0233 or 970-688-0249 www.codeofthewestoutfitters.com

colorado elk outfitter, llc

Offering guided hunts for archery, muzzleloader and rifle. Elk, deer, moose, antelope, bear and coyote are present with the majority of the hunting concentrated on our outstanding elk hunting. Thompson Ranch in GMU 17, Rand, 970-481-4354 www.coloradoelkoutfitter.com

colorado’s high lonesome outfitter and Guides

20474 Rio Blanco County Road 8, Meeker (20 miles east of Meeker) 970-878-4745

P.O. Box 312, Yampa (45 minutes south of Steamboat) 970-846-1449 or 970-638-4239 www.cohighlonesome.com

bull basin Guides and outfitters

colorado hunter services

P.O. Box 1566, Kremmling 970-724-0417 www.bullbasin.com, troublesomeflyfishing.com

camp David outfitting, llc

17201 6200 Road, Montrose 970-252-1582, 970-596-6716 or 970-765-5500 ray@campdavidoutfitting.com www.campdavidoutfitting.com

carr creek cattle company, llc P.O. Box 2991, Grand Junction 970-261-5009, Fax: 970-255-9911 dave@carrcreekcattleco.com www.carrcreekcacattleco.com

We have been in business since 2002 and are individually owned and operated. Booked hunts are on private land, some tracts border BLM and National Forest. Located in Slater, 866-210-2445 or 803-730-4176 www.coloradohunterservices.com

colorado’s Mountain West outfitting co. P.O. Box 1380, Craig, 970-824-7257 www.primehunts.com

colorado outfitters services

Private land hunts available for handicap and youth hunters and military veterans. 501 Cedar Mountain Ave., Craig, 303-726-5975

Western ColorAdo gUides & oUtFitters P.O. Box 447, Winnsboro, Louisiana 318-435-5029 or 318-376-5043 www.coloradoprivateranches.com

colorado trophies

cross Mountain adventures

1280 Industrial Ave., Craig, 970-824-2803 www.crossmountainranch.com

D & G horses and outfitting

P. O. Box 249 Redvale 970-327-4678, Fax: 970-327-4677 colander@wic.net www.coloradotrophies.com

Old Time Outfitting. 1631 Garfield County Road 293 Rifle 970-625-0234 dghorseoutfittin@aol.com www.dghorsesoutfitting.com

colorado twin Peaks

Dark timber outfitting

Colorado Twin Peaks private ranches offers unguided private ranch hunts on private properties located in Southeast Colorado in hunt units 85, 133, 134 and 64/65. Southern Colorado offers elk hunters some of the best trophy elk hunting found in the entire state. Franklin, West Virginia 304-358-3252 or 304-668-2147 www.coloradotwinpeaks.com

commander & company, ltd

P.O. Box 530, Somerset, 970-929-6202 commanderandcompany@gmail.com www.commanderandcompany.com www.wildernesshunts.com

coulter lake Guest ranch

80 Garfield County Road 273, Rifle 970-625-1473 or 800-858-3046 info@coulterlake.com www.coulterlake.com

craig Wild bunch Guides and outfitters

855 Moﬀat County Road 78, Craig, 970-824-9334 www.elk-craigwildbunch.com

SPORTSMAN’S PARADISE! $889,000

236 S. Third St., Box 224, Montrose, 970-275-5047 darktimberlodge@hotmail.com www.darktimberlodge.com

Dave Parri’s outfitting and Guide service P.O. Box 254, Hot Sulphur Springs, 970-725-3531 www.traditionalelkhunt.com

David r. seely outfitting

1826 Colorado Highway 394, Craig, 970-824-4288

Del’s triangle 3 ranch

Del’s has been in continuous operation in North Routt County since 1962, offering full-service, five-day hunts as well as drop camps deep into Routt National Forest. Elk, deer and bear hunts in GMUs 5, 14, 161 and 214. 55675 Routt County Road 62 (P.O. Box 893), Clark (18 miles north of Steamboat), 970-879-3495 www.steamboathorses.com

Diamond Peak cattle co., llc

Guided archery, muzzleloading and rifle hunts offered in the premier GMUs 2 and 201 for trophy bull elk, mule deer and antelope based

Attention to detail throughout this custom built home on 35 acres. Spacious living, complete with a full guest suite on the lower level, with separate entrance. Home offers an attached two car garage plus an additional 960 sq. ft. barn/shop with caretaker quarters and full bath. Ideal gentleman’s ranch, vacation getaway or corporate retreat!

Year round outdoor recreation for everyone! Home is tucked away in a tranquil setting with incredible views of the Flattops and Eagle Rock. Close proximity to hunting, fishing, and world class skiing. Property is conveniently located between the Vail Valley and Steamboat Springs, with easy access to Eagle and Hayden airports. #140404

Kerry Eaton

Broker/Owner 970-846-9591 www.SteamboatArea.com

106 E. Main Street, Oak Creek, CO

Hunters’ One-Stop Shopping • Hunting & Fishing Licenses • Hunting & Fishing Supplies • Camping Supplies • Sporting Goods • 24 hours • Auto Wash • Self Service Wash • Vacuums

Self Serve & Automatic Car Washes accept all major credit cards.

• Propane • Coleman Fuel • Binoculars

Samuelson Don’t Leave a trace of your hunting fun!

1635 W. Victor y Wa y • C ra i g • 8 2 6 . 0 7 31

43300 Highway 13  Meeker, Colorado  970-878-3528 456 Breeze St.  Craig, CO  970-824-6683 2015 | colorado Hunter

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HUNTINGdireCtorY

colorado Private ranches

HUNTINGdireCtorY

Western ColorAdo gUides & oUtFitters out of historic lodge at base of Diamond Peak. 2991 Pine Ridge Drive, Craig 970-824-5750 or 970-326-8620 www.trophy-elk-hunting.com

Dunckley Peak outfitters and Pack service

P.O. Box 935, Craig, 970-824-8257 www.billscabin.com

eagle’s nest outfitting

P.O. Box 1168, Craig , 970-826-4383 www.eaglesnestoutfitting.com

north of Steamboat), 800-750-6220 www.elkriverguestranch.com

Fawn Gulch outfitters

P.O. Box 727 Pagosa Springs 970-264-5266, Fax: 970-264-2123 TroyRoss@FawnGulchOutfitters.com www.fawngulchoutfitters.com

Feisty Fins outfitters

1427 Airport Road, Rifle, 970-319-5679

Fish & cross ranch Pack country outfitters

53 Garfield County Road 223, Rifle, 970-625-2131 rifleareachamber.chambermaster.com

24300 Routt County Road 11, Yampa (45 minutes south of Steamboat), 970-638-1064 www.packcountryoutfitters.com

elkhead Mountain lodge, llc

Fish creek outfitters, llc

ed chamberlain horse rentals

Offering DIY hunting for elk, deer and bear with convenient lodging complete with amenities. Operating northeast of Craig in the Elkhead Mountain Range 814-758-9278 (Jeﬀ ); 814-229-5238 (Shawn) www.elkheadmountainlodge.com

elkhorn outfitters

37399 N. Colorado Highway 13, Craig 970-824-7392 www.elkhornoutfitters.com

elk river Guest ranch

Customized unguided hunting packages to vast public lands in the Routt National Forest, archery through second elk and deer rifle season. 29840 Routt County Road 64, Clark (20 miles

3600 Archuleta County Road 359, Pagosa Springs 970-946-1888 larry@fishcreekoutfitters.com www.fishcreekoutfitters.com

Five springs ranch Guide and outfitters 29550 Colorado Highway 131, Steamboat Springs 970-879-0868 www.5springsranch.com

Frosty acres ranch

Mostly trespass-fee elk, deer and antelope hunts (archery, muzzleloading and rifle) on 15,000 private acres of GMUs 4 and 301, with private lodging. 41380 N. Colorado Highway 13, Craig 970-824-8935 www.frostyacres-craig.com

Big game Hunting Summer Pack triPS

the Gunnison country Guide service P.O. Box 1443, Gunnison 970-641-2830 or 970-209-7104 packtrip@gunnison.com www.coloradoguideandoutfitter.com

h & h Processing and outfitting 68656 Colorado Highway 64, Meeker 970-878-5126 or 970-878-5151 www.handhoutfitting.com

hester hunting company

1367 Eagle Ave., Kremmling 970-724-9746 www.hesterhuntingcompany.webs.com

high country cabin at Flat tops ranch 15805 County Road 245, New Castle 970-379-5080 www.colorado-high-country-cabin.com

high Desert ranch & outfitting 405 Hill Drive, Craig 970-629-1760 www.highdesertoutfitting.com

56860 OE Road, Collbran, 970-487-3731 hillsguide@yahoo.com www.hillsguideservice.com

hodiak outfitters & Wildlife solutions P.O. Box 1638, Arboles 970-883-5401 or 970-799-3641 www.hodiak.com

homestead hunts

2050 Chapman Lane, Craig 970-824-8549 www.homesteadhunts.net

hubbard creek outfitters & Pack station, llc

P.O. Box 25, Hotchkiss, 970-872-3818 www.hubbardcreek.com

ivory tip outfitters

774 Park Court, Craig, 970-629-1361 www.ivorytip-outfitters.com

J & ray colorado high country, inc

high sierra expeditions, llc

236 S. Third Street, PMB 331, Montrose 970-249-6334 or 970-275-3383 info@highsierraexpeditions.com www.highsierraexpeditions.com

highlands unlimited, inc

hills Guide service

3931 La Plata County Road 122, Hesperus 970-247-8443 mail@highlandsunlimited.com www.highlandsunlimited.com

8360 6400 Road, Montrose, 970-323-0115 Prfranks55@yahoo.com www.sportsmansdream.com

J-bar-h outfitters

Archery, muzzleloader and rifle hunts in the White River and Routt National Forests. Fully guided tent and cabin hunts, drop camp hunts. GMU 12 P.O. Box 569, Meeker 800-230-HUNT (4868) www.jbarhoutfitters.com

an aDventure worth planning for full Service guided hunts on private & public land

meeker, colorado

Proudly offering quality hunting experiences since 1998.

“thank you” ou” to our many wonderful clients; we appreciate your business. www.JBarHoutfitters.com | jeanneh@jbarhoutfitters.com

800-230-Hunt (4868)

licenSed | Bonded | Fully inSured | licenSe #2758 Permittee in the White river and routt national Forests. equal opportunity Service Provider.

114 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

PSalm 23

Quality hunting in a high opportunity area for Deer & elk license #858 Daniel Johnson 1192 north Johnson road Craig, Colorado 81625 970-824-7874 970-326-7575

Western ColorAdo gUides & oUtFitters 1436 N Road, Loma 970-858-6586 or 970-270-2112 packrat@gvii.net www.cassidyoutfitters.com

J.c. trujillo Guide & outfitter 54768 Rio Blanco County Road 8 (28 miles south of Hayden) 970-276-3300 or 928-533-6624

JMl outfitters

300 Rio Blanco County Road 75, Meeker (30 miles east of Meeker), 970-878-4749 www.jmloutfitters.com

James creek outfitters

396 Colorado Highway 13, Meeker 970-824-6939 www.jamescreekoutfitters.com

Jeﬀcoat ranch & outfitters P.O. Box 97, Hamilton 970-824-3757 jeﬀcoat20@wreawildblue.org

kawcak Farms

3699 Moﬀat County Road 13, Craig 970-824-7161

keys Guide & outfitting, llc P.O. Box 1080 Clifton 970-216-7899 info@keysoutfitting.com www.keysoutfitting.com

knight canyon outfitters, inc

louisiana Purchase ranch outfitters P.O. Box 206, Meeker 970-272-3006 www.louisianapurchaseranch.com www.shootelk.com

luark ranch & outfitters

A taste of the Old West with base camp for big game hunting on King Mountain. 2834 Luark Road, Burns 970-653-4324 www.luarkranch.com/hunting.htm

M & M elk ranch

Offering a wide range of products from custom steaks to specialty dog treats. Also offering the opportunity to shoot your own elk. 50803 Meadow Lane, Steamboat Springs 970-879-5200 www.mmelkranch.com P.O. Box 1020, Craig, 970-824-5812 mmoutfitters@wreawildblue.org

Majestic trophy outfitters

Fully guided and semi-guided archery, muzzleloading and rifle hunts for deer, elk, antelope and predators on 2,500 private acres of scrub oak and mixed terrain 20 miles south of Craig (GMUs 3, 12 and 301). Also offers interpretive ATV tours and survival classes for all ages. 711 Desperado Road, Bailey, 970-620-0098 www.majestictrophy.net

Middle creek ranch Middle creek ranch outfitters

28310 Routt County Road 31, Oak Creek (25 miles south of Steamboat) 970-879-7353

lamicq Guides & outfitters, inc.

Over 8,000 acres of excellent private land hunting in the Williams Fork Valley. In addition to having a large year round resident elk and deer population, the ranch is located on natural migration routes of the large White River elk and deer herds. 6148 Colorado Highway 317, Hamilton 970-824-9317 www.lazy-v-box.com

lazy F bar ranch & outfitters, inc. 970-641-3313 lazyfbar@crestedbutte.net www.lazybfbarranch.com

lobo outfitters, llc

Myers hunting service

4821 A Highway 84, Pagosa Springs 970-264-5546 or 970-264-2812 dickray@centurytel.net www.lobooutfitters.com

nine Mile Guest ranch

lone tom outfitting

northern colorado outfitters

50735 Colorado Highway 13, Meeker 970-878-4656 www.ninemileguestranch.com

Elk, deer, mountain lion and antelope lodgebased hunts (archery, muzzleloader and rifle) and drop camps on public and private lands. Also offers fishing and pack trips and horse rentals. 12888 Rio Blanco County Road 8, Meeker 970-878-5122 www.lonetom.com

Guided archery, muzzle-loading and rifle elk and deer hunts and drop camps with exclusive outfitter rights to 90 square miles of the Sarvis Creek Wilderness Area (GMU 15), owned and operated by Olympic and World Cup mogul coach Timmy Meagher. www.northerncoloradooutfitters.com

longshot ranch

P.O. Box 631, Meeker, 970-878-5822 www.meekercolorado.com/oakridge

28925 Routt County Road 14, Steamboat Springs 970-879-4026

lost solar outfitters

25 Valley View Drive, Craig 970-824-3657 or 970-620-1511 www.lostsolaroutfitters.com

801 east Victory Way, craig, co 970.824.2962 northwest-pawn.com

M&M outfitters

P.O. Box 404, Norwood 970-327-4614 or 970-729-1806 knightcanyonoutfitters@yahoo.com www.knightcanyonoutfitters.com 635 19 ½ Road, Grand Junction 970-243-1082

Guns, Ammo, sportinG Goods, And HuntinG Licenses

Sarah Buckles Larner Custom Elk Ivory Jewelry

www.silverspursteamboat.com

sarahsilverspur@gmail.com • (970) 879-3880

Sand Springs Archery

oak ridge outfitters

outwest Guides

7500 Gunnison County Road 3, Marble 970-963-5525 info@outwestguides.com www.outwestguides.com

970-824-0139 970-756-9315 cell 80 East 4th St. Craig, CO 81625 Allen Jenkins, owner sandspringsarchery@yahoo.com 2015 | colorado Hunter

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HUNTINGdireCtorY

Jack cassidy, colorado big Game hunts, llc

HUNTINGdireCtorY

Western ColorAdo gUides & oUtFitters over the hill outfitters, inc

4140 La Plata County Road 234, Durango 970-247-1694 or 970-385-7656 otho@frontier.net www.overthehilloutfitters.com

Pt outfitters

129 Grand County Road 12, Kremmling 866-724-3616

Peak to creek outfitters, inc

red Feather Guides & outfitters

Pinnacle Peak adventures, llc

rocky Mountain ranches

P.O. Box 123 Cortez, 970-739-0892 dcpottorﬀ@fone.net gohunt.com/outfitter/pinyon-outfitters-llc

r&r ranch of colorado

970-921-3557 www.coloradohunts.com

Colorado’s finest big game hunting. Trophy mule deer, huge elk populations, black bear and mountain lion. Join us for the hunt of a lifetime! GMU 42. 67290 E. La Salle Road, Montrose 970-249-4242 info@huntsilverspuroutfitters.com www.huntsilverspuroutfitters.com

P.O. Box 1040, Craig, 970-824-5539 or 970-824-9474 cseely@dishmail.net www.seelyhunting.com

seven lakes lodge

11808 Rio Blanco County Road 8, Meeker 970-878-3249

6855 W. 33rd Ave., Wheat Ridge 970-439-1894 www.rockymountainhunting.com

sheep creek ranch outfitters

roosters Guide & outfitting adventures

970-283-8919 or 970-618-7203 raycogburn@roostersguideandoutfitting adventures.com www.roostersguideandoutfittingadventures.com

sable Mountain outfitters

Guided elk, deer and bear hunts (archery, muzzle-loading and rifle) on 11,000 acres of public and private lands in GMU 22. P.O. Box 2463, Meeker, 970-878-4757 sheepcreekhunts@yahoo.com www.sheepcreekhunts.com

shelton ranch

10955 Moﬀat County Road 57, Maybell 970-272-3553 or 970-620-3993 www.sheltonranch.com

5100 Rio Blanco County Road 4, Meeker 970-878-4765 www.sablemountainoutfitters.com

silver creek outfitters

saddleback ranch

Full and semi-guided hunts and drop-camps offered primarily for elk, deer and mountain lion on rugged national Forest Service public lands. Steamboat Springs, 970-846-5877 www.silvercreek-outfitters.com

37350 Routt County Road 179 (15 miles west of Steamboat) 970-879-3711 www.saddlebackranch.net

P.O. Box 5481, Pagosa Springs 970-264-9576 or 970-946-2976 attully@centurylink.net www.silverdollaroutfitters.com

silver spur outfitters, llc reg.

seely hunting services

P.O. Box 223, Rangely 970-675-2619 www.coloradorimrockoutfitters.com

silver Dollar outfitters

skiles Guest & hunting ranch P.O. Box 12, Burns, 970-653-4329

snowmass creek outfitters

3610 Capital Creek Road, Snowmass 970-704-0707 www.snowmasscreekoutfitters.com

sombrero ranches

Rents horses for all seasons, including tack and delivery/pick-up within a 50-mile radius of one of the Sombero camps. Guided deer and elk hunts from the Williams Fork Hunt Camp for archery through rifle seasons in addition to four drop camps in the Routt National Forest (GMU 12). Craig Ranch – 781 Moﬀat County Road 15, Craig, 970-824-3468; Steamboat Stables – 835 Howelsen Parkway, Steamboat (base of Howelsen Hill, behind the rodeo grounds), 970-879-2306; Meeker White River Horse Camp – 12900 Rio

21205

10202 S.W. 138 St., Archer, Florida, 352-538-7094 www.rrranchco.com

sawbuck outfitters

137 Grand County Road 39, Kremmling 970-531-2008 www.reedercreek.com

rim rock outfitters

Pinyon outfitters, llc

P.O. Box 868, Fraser, 970-726-8221 www.samuelsonoutfitters.com

reeder creek ranch

P.O. Box 1986, Bayfield 970-884-0199, Fax: 970-884-0199 gene@peaktocreekoutfitters.com www.peaktocreekoutfitters.com

Enjoy a memorable mule deer, elk or antelope hunt on two working ranches with approximately 6,000 acres of private land located in Northwest Colorado in management unit 4. Our property is very accessible, and by allowing only four to six hunters per season on 6,000 acres, we provide a very unique, private hunting experience. 2951 Moﬀat County Road 18N, Craig 970-824-9269 www.huntpinnacle.com

samuelson outfitters

49794 Colorado Highway 14, Walden 970-723-4204 (summer and fall) or 970-524-5054 (winter and spring), www.redfeatherguides.com

Missing Something? Missing something?

Treasure Trove FROM

CLASSIC TO

FANTASTIC

TREASURE HUNTERS

Missing something? WANTED!

Colorado Outfitter Registration #1229

Guided deeR & elk HuntinG

Missing something?

Tate Follett

ate36220 Follett N Highway 13 Craig, Coloradoy 81625 6220 N Highwa 13 raig, Colorado 81625 970.846.5908 owlridgetaxidermy@gmail.com

Tate Follett 70.846.5908 36220 N Highway 13

lridgetaxidermy@gmail.com Craig, Colorado 81625

970.846.5908 owlridgetaxidermy@gmail.com

STORE HOURS: 10am - 6pm Thursday • Friday • Saturday

1605 South US Hwy 50 *At the top of 5th Street Hill* FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL ZANE LAWSON 970-208-3891

116 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

For Information or Reservations, Please Contact: don & Phyllis Myers 6148 State Highway 317, Hamilton, CO 81638 (970) 824-9317 myersinc@wildblue.net

Western ColorAdo gUides & oUtFitters packtrip@gunnison.com www.coloradoguideandoutfitter.com

steamboat lake outfitters

128 E. Third St., Rifle 970-625-GUNS (4867) www.625guns.com

the tradesmen

P.O. Box 749, Clark, 970-319-4866 www.steamboatlakeoutfitters.com

sundown outfitters rio Grande outfitters

third Generation outfitters

Pagosa Springs 970-219-7523 thirdgenerationoutfitters@aol.com www.thirdgenerationoutfitters.com

970-264-9576

sunset ranch

29420 Elk Horn Lane (three miles north of Steamboat) 970-879-0954 www.sunsetranchinc.com

three Forks ranch

P.O. Box 69, Savery, Wyoming 970-583-7396 www.threeforksranch.com

superior Guide service

5801 Colorado Highway 394, Craig, 970-824-4767 www.wehuntcolorado.com

t&D outfitters

timberline sporting Goods

124 W. Second St., Rifle, 970-625-HUNT (4868) www.timberlinesports.com

Fully guided deer and elk rifle hunts on over 1,650 private acres in the Isles Mountain area outside of Craig (GMU 211). P.O. Box 443, Pine, 303-618-2329 or 303-838-8437

topgun outfitters

tenderfoot outfitters

triple track hunting

108 Reigel School Road, Rimesburg, Pennsylvania 814-229-4514 topgunoutfitters@hotmail.com

P.O. Box 246, Gunnison 800-641-0504 tenderfoot@tenderfoot-outfitters.com www.tenderfoot-outfitters.com

P.O. Box 91, Hamilton (20 miles north of Meeker) 970-756-5000 www.tripletrackllc.com

the Gunnison country Guide service

448 Moﬀat County Road 41, Hamilton 970-824-6758 www.coloradooutdoors.com

P.O. Box 1443, Gunnison 970-641-2830

HUNTINGdireCtorY

Blanco County Road 8, Meeker, 970-878-4382; 303-442-0258 www.sombrero.com

triple-o outfitters

Like us on Facebook! 105 E. Victory Way • Craig, CO 81625 • 970-824-3445 www.americannorthwestrealty.com

Here for all of your Hunting Property needs!

INJURED ON THE JOB?

Withers Seidman Rice & Mueller P.C. Representing injured workers in Colorado for over 30 years.

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION & SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY 101 S. 3rd St., Suite 265, Grand Junction

245-9075 • (800) 431-6975 Se Habla Español

FREE CONSULTATION

Elk Liquor until Open on 11pm ys! a Sund 1111 W. Victory Way ∙ 970-824-6779 Behind Village Inn- Inside the Centennial Mall (West end)

Largest Beer Cooler in Craig! 19 Doors

VOT E d # 1 I n M O f fAT C O u n T y COME AND SEE THE AMAZING SPIDER PIG!

SPORTS SPIRITS & SPARERIBS Dine in or Carry Out 210 E. Victory Way 970-826-0468

*Open 7 days/week *Full Bar *Food & Drink specials daily 2015 | colorado Hunter

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Pet Boarding Science Diet Pet Food

24 hour

EmErgEncy SErvicE

577 Yampa Ave. Downtown Craig 970.824.8148

Your hunt for the perfect

Boning Knife ends here!

21148965

Kelly Hepworth, D.V.M. Gary Visintainer, D.V.M. Bear Creek Labradors 2430 E. Victory Way Craig, Colo. www.bclabradors.com (970) 824-5964 (970) 824-7567 fax all major Credit Cards accepted

Vanatta outfitters

Wilderness tracks Guides and outfitters

Horse boarding. 14938 U.S. Highway 40, Kremmling 630-632-9134 www.whiteleypeakranch.com

P.O. Box 771710, Steamboat Springs 970-879-6164 www.vanattaoutfitters.com

Knives, Jerky Seasonings, & More!

HUNTINGdireCtorY

ANIMAL HOSPITAL We Care for them aLL!

Whiteley Peak ranch

P.O. Box 16, Cowdrey (22 miles north of Walden) 970-723-4000 www.trophymountainranch.com

BEAR CREEK

Large to Small

trophy Mountain elk ranch

Villa ranch

Owner Mary Kreuger Guided elk hunts, game management unit 11, private and BLM land. P.O. Box 1195, Meeker 970-878-4138 www.villaranchcolorado.com

Quality hunting in a high opportunity area for deer and elk. We control the number of sportsmen on our hunts to assure an enjoyable experience in a secluded area on private land and some public land. 1192 North Johnson Road, Craig, 970-824-7874 or 970-326-7575

Wild skies Four season cabin rentals 970-926-0216 www.wildskies.com

W3 outfitters (dba: chuck Davies Guide service)

Williams Peak ranch

500 12 Mile Gulch Road, Elk Springs 970-272-3002

1330 Grand County Road 315, Parshall 970-725-3282 www.williamspeakranch.com

Warriors in the Wild

Yampa Valley outfitters

P.O. Box 910, Craig (nine miles north of Maybell) 970-824-2102, 706-595-1044 or 706-990-9030

Base Camp 40 www.bc40hunts.com

Wauntia hot springs ranch

8007 Gunnison County Road 887, Gunnison 970-641-1266 www.waunita.com

Welder outfitting services P.O. Box 823, Meeker 970-878-4559 www.welderoutfitters.com

facebook.com/thekitchenshopofcraig

Voted Moffat County’s Best Taxidermist 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015

Mark Zimmerman Award Winning Taxidermy Artist Masters Best of Category - Gamehead Masters Best of Category - Pronghorn Outfitter’s Choice Award Best Mule Deer Best Elk Award Taxidermist Choice People’s Choice Mayor’s Choice Woody Award - Excellence in Taxidermy Artisan Award Taxidermist Choice - Best of Show

“Our Aim Is Perfection” 1445 Yampa Ave. - Craig CO 81625 970.826.2997 / 970.629.0130 cell www.bullseyetaxidermy.com 118 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

Move Your Game! Front & Rear Bumpers Livestock Racks Headache Racks Tailgates Aluminum Bumpers Flatbed Installation Receiver Hitch Installation Winch Installation Custom Welding Spray In Bed Liner

350 Russell Street Craig, CO 81625 970-824-2423 jacksbumpers.com

Meeker, MaYbell, haMilton, ranGelY, Dinosaur Gear, GooDs & suPPlies bear creek animal hospital

Our three staff veterinarians can take care of all of your animals, whether it’s your child’s hamster or your horse that needs our help. We provide all traditional veterinary services, plus we are available 24 hours a day for emergency care. 2430 E. Victory Way, Craig, 970-824-5964 www.bearcreekanimalhospital.com

big o tires craig

Voted Moffat County’s Best Tire Store, the Craig Big O Tires is your No. 1 center for tires, wheels, service and savings. 1111 W. Victory Way, Suite 128, Craig 970-824-2446, www.bigotires.com/Location/CO/ Craig/81625/006241

cook chevrolet

Locally owned Chevrolet, Subaru, and Ford dealerships. 24 hour towing, service, and sales. Body shop and parts department. 1776 W. Victory Way, Craig, 970-824-2100 www.cookchevrolet.com

craig Powersports

camouflage apparel. 801 E. Victory Way, Craig, 970-824-2962 www.northwest-pawn.com

MJk sales & Feed

Gcr tires

Ammunition, binoculars and scopes, camping equipment and cookware with some camouflage apparel, boots and clothing as well as certified hay. 290 Ranney St., Craig, 970-824-6581

Murdoch’s ranch & home supply

Ammunition, fishing and hunting licenses, cookware, coolers, deer carts, sleds, camping gear, knives, saws and a full line of Carhartt and Murdoch’s hunting clothes. Pack saddles and bridles, blaze-orange halters, blankets, tire chains and shovels. 2355 W. Victory Way, Craig, 970-824-4100 www.murdochs.com

Craig. Pick from 6 colors or take home a hair-on hide that is ready for display. UPS shipping available 802 E. Second Place, Craig, 970-824-3256 www.axisleather.qpg.com

sand springs archery

Archery equipment and supplies 80 E. Fourth St., Craig, 970-824-0139

brothers custom Processing

Tires, service and more. 1247 E. U.S. Highway 40, Craig, 970-824-7094

t&h napa auto Parts

400 Taylor St., Craig, 970-824-3284 www.napaonline.com/co/craig

One of the largest selections of firearms in Northwest Colorado with a huge selection of ammunition, archery equipment, knives, cleaning and reloading supplies and

Brother’s Custom Processing is Northwest Colorado’s premier wildgame processor. With a combined 50 years of experience processing game, our staff can help to put the finishing touches on your hunt of a lifetime. 383 E. First St., Craig 970-824-3855 www.brothersprocessing.com

bullseye taxidermy

us tractor and harvest

U. S. Tractor and Harvest sells and services John Deere new and used tractors, combines, lawn & garden, work products, John Deere replacement parts, and John Deere AMS (GPS) products. 3025 W. Victory Way, Craig, 970-824-6163 www.ustractor.com

Meat ProcessinG & taXiDerMY

northwest Pawn shop

axis leather Works

Pick up a tanned, hair-on or rawhide while in

Bullseye Taxidermy will provide the personal commitment and artistic quality, to bring your trophy to realistic measures. We strive for higher presentation standards and leading composition designs. All of the pieces we produce have the latest materials and technology available 1445 Yampa Ave., Craig 970-826-2997 www.bullseyetaxidermy.com

custom Quality Meats

1430 N. Yampa Ave., Craig, 970-824-4668

– Parts Appliances – Service - Mattresses Cabinets – Furniture 4-6945 583 Yampa Avenue Craig, CO 81625

Stop in today and visit with the tire professionals at

21140502

Bridgestone • Firestone • Yokohama • Continental • General • Cooper

Craig Powersports opened in 1999. Just as it was then, our goal is to be the most courteous and professional powersports dealer in Colorado.

As a result, we have become the state’s largest side-by-side dealer! Give us a call or come on in and let us help you in the snow, on the trail or on the road! 2607 E. U.S. Highway 40, Craig 970-826-0060 www.craigpowersports.com

Office 970-82 Fax 970-824-2174

room Remodels,

Kitchen & Bath

FREE ESTIMAT

519 Yampa Ave. | Craig, CO 81625

The Embroidery Shoppe, LLC MOBILE SERVICE AVAILABLE!

1247 East US HWY 40 Craig CO 81625

970-824-7094

T-shirts ¤ Sweatshirts ¤ Jackets Custom Stickers ¤ Vests ¤ Hats Full embroidery services available with 24-hour turnaround

(970) 824-6770 sewpolish@gmail.com 2015 | colorado Hunter

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CrAig region [MeeKer, MAYBell, hAMilton, rAngelY, dinosAUr] Gunsmoke taxidermy and school

At our school, learn how to mount big-game animals in Craig, Colorado. We are also the home of a professional taxidermy studio. 37339 N. Colorado Highway 13, Craig 970-826-4293 www.gunsmoketaxidermy.com

Mountain Man taxidermy

Mountain Man Taxidermy, established in 1991, has been serving hunters of Northwest Colorado for nearly 20 years. Located in Craig, the Elk Hunting Capitol of the World. 1176 Yampa Ave., Craig 970-824-4910 www.mtnmantaxidermy.com

owl ridge taxidermy

36220 N. Colorado Highway 13, Craig 970-846-5908

licensinG aGents

rangely true Value hardware

105 W. Main St., Rangely, 970-675-2454

samuelson’s true Value hardware & lumber

Offering quality tools, products and expert advice, Samuelson’s True Value is your one stop destination for all your hardware and hunting/ sporting needs. 43900 Colorado Highway 13, Meeker 970-878-3528 ww3.truevalue.com/samuelson/Home.aspx

samuelson true Value hardware 456 Breeze St., Craig, 970-824-6683 www.truevalue.com/samuelson

Valley ace hardware

401 E. Market St., Meeker, 970-878-4608

Walmart supercenter

city Market

505 W. Victory Way, Craig, 970-824-6515

Open 24 hours, offering all products including grocery and hunting/sporting. 2000 W. Victory Way, Craig, 970-824-0340 www.walmart.com

colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife

Walden conoco

P.O. Box 1181, Meeker 970-878-6090

609 Main St., Walden, 970-723-4246

shootinG ranGes

kmart

1198 W. Victory Way, Craig, 970-824-2966

loaf ‘n Jug store

101 W. Brontosaurus Blvd., Dinosaur 970-374-2461

bears ears sportsman club’s cedar Mountain range

300-yard outdoor rifle and 50-yard outdoor pistol range for members, but open to the public the first Sunday and Monday of each month. Also open during daylight hours,

Thursday and Friday prior to each big game season for rifle sight-in. P.O. Box 622, Craig (4.5 miles northwest of Craig on Moﬀat County Road 7), 970-824-8376 www.bearsears.com

Glenwood springs Gun club

appreciate spacious suites and amenities like: Free high-speed wireless internet, free weekday newspaper, full service restaurant and lounge 300 S. Colorado Highway 13, Craig, 970-824-4000 www.clarionhotel.com/hotel-craig-coloradoCO295

Public welcome to shoot when range is open. Sporting clays, trap, black powder, rifle and pistol ranges up to 200 yards. Hunter education courses also available. P.O. Box 2362, Glenwood Springs, 970-945-5556

cool Water Grille

Meeker sportman’s club, inc.

cowboy inn

Hunter sight-in Thursdays and Fridays prior to each big game season . Sight-in is $5 per gun, or member shoot for $10. New memberships cost $20 plus dues per person and includes full use of archery, trap, rifle and pistol ranges. 36684 Colorado Highway 13, P.O. Box 1325, Meeker (4.5 miles southwest of Meeker on Colo. 13), 970-878-3456 www.meekersportsmansclub.com

American dining for breakfast and lunch. Open early to fill you up before the hunt begins. Award-winning Bloody Mary’s. 337 W. Victory Way, Craig, 970-824-1756 Restaurant, bar/lounge and motel. 210 Penland St., Baggs, Wyoming, 307-383-2200 www.thecowboyinn.com

eastside liquor

loDGinG & DininG

Voted Best Liquor Store in Moffat County four years running. Great selection. 539 E. Victory Way, Craig 970-826-0071 www.explorecraig.com/marketplace/craig/ businesses/eastside-liquor

carelli’s Pizzeria & Pasta

elk liquor

We are a pizzeria combined with fine Italian dining. We offer full service bar, with unique rotating micro-brews. Open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. for lunch and dinner. Voted Best Lunch and Dinner Restaurant for 2014 and 2015. 465 Yampa Ave., Craig, 970-824-6868

clarion inn and suites

Enjoy the numerous amenities offered at Clarion Inn and Suites® in Craig, Colorado. You’ll

1111 W. Victory Way, Craig, 970-824-6679

elk run inn

Allow the Elk Run Inn to be your home when you are here. Eat out only if you want to, all our units have full kitchens. We are conveniently located in the center of town. Everything is close by; grocery stores, restaurants, liquor stores, post oﬃce, shopping, churches and internet access at the library next door. We look forward to seeing

Freezers Available in Every Size Even

We also have Crystal Cold propane Refrigerators and Freezers

CAMO

Freezers! Come see our selection of GE, Frigidare, & Speed Queens Appliances!

Best of Moffat County 2015:

Dinner • Lunch • Pizza Italian • Sandwich (TheDC) Vino, Craft Beer, & Full Bar 970.824.9380 211 W. 4th St. Craig

465 Yampa Ave. Craig 970-824-6868

Best of Moffat County 3 years in a row!

Daily ailyS D l

FaSt, aFFordable, ordable, authentic

Voted Best Liquor Store in Moffat County 4 Years in a Row!

970-826-0071 • 539 E. Victory Way, Craig 120 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

SpecialS Special pecia S

Monday-Saturday, 11aM 11a to 8pM

Phone: 970-824-5051

Location: 994 Yampa Ave - Craig, CO

hampton inn and suites

Join us each morning for Hampton’s free hot breakfast. Even if you’re in a rush, simply grab one of our free Hampton On the Run® Breakfast Bags, available Monday through Friday, for a quick, healthy meal to go. Free high-speed internet access . 377 Cedar Court, Craig, 970-826-9900 hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/colorado/ hampton-inn-and-suites-craig-CIGCOHX/index. html

JW snack’s Gulf coast bar & Grill

Delicious food and a fun environment with sports, spirits and spare ribs. 210 E. Victory Way, Craig, 970-826-0468 www.jwsnacks.com

la cabana

Casual Mexican Grill offering fast, fresh, and authentic Mexican cuisine. 994 Yampa Ave., Craig, 970-824-5051

Maybell Park

Year round full-service camping. No reservations required. U.S. Highway 40, Maybell, 970-272-3261

trav-o-tel Motel

Free wi-fi, refrigerators and television in all rooms, centrally located in downtown Craig. 224 E. Victory Way, Craig, 970-824-8171

A consumer owned non-profit electric distribution cooperative serving parts of Rio Blanco, Garfield and Moffat counties. 233 SIxth St., P.O. Box 958, Meeker, 970-878-5041 www.white-river-electric-association.org

105 E. Victory Way, Craig, 970-824-3445 www.americannorthwestrealty.com

backcountry realty

country living realty

Pioneers hospital

Pioneers Medical Center has served Meeker

Experts on Craig and Moffat County real estate with over 60 years experience. Offering residential real estate, recreational and mountain property, land, and ranches. 840 W. Victory Way, Craig, 970-824-7086 www.brasskey-realty.com We are a full service real estate oﬃce offering experienced professional services when buying or selling residential, commercial, vacant land, and farm/ranch. We also provide fast, eﬃcient property management tailored to fit your needs. 304 W. Victory Way, Craig 970-824-0223 www.craigcorealty.com

Available packages include our European Plan for private lodge rental to individual groups and our popular American Plan that includes lodging, camp cook and food. Amenities include comfortable beds, washer and dryer, satellite TV, wood and propane heating, refrigerator/freezer, stove and on-demand hot water!

hayden outdoors

Hayden Outdoors represents the finest real estate for sale, including farm, ranch and recreational properties across the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains. From legacy ranches to farms and cropland, luxury real estate to recreational land, we can help you buy or sell your next property. 1204 W. Ash St., Unit A, Windsor, 970-674-1990 www.haydenoutdoors.com

Western exposures realty, llc

1033 Market St., Meeker, 970-878-5877 westernexposures.net

814-758-9278 or 814-229-5238 See Website for Rates

www.elkheadmountainlodge.com info@elkheadmountainlodge.com

21147432

Providing health care to the communities of Moffat County, offering a variety of general care and specialty services. 750 Hospital Loop, Craig, 970-824-9411 www.thememorialhospital.com

Craig, Colorado

american northwest realty

other suPPortinG businesses

the Memorial hospital

No long drives to get to your hunting area. You will be eating and sleeping in Elk country!

real estate

brass key realty

A unique college located in a spectacular part of Colorado with a new state-of-the-art campus in Craig. Within three new energy eﬃcient buildings, you may study Nursing in our fully accredited program; work in a number of certificate areas in Automotive Technology; enroll in Massage Therapy and Cosmetology courses; and more. 2801 W. Ninth St., Craig, 800-562-1105 www.cncc.edu/cms/

Budget friendly lodging packages available for DIY Elk, Deer and Bear Hunting

Rangely is “A Great Place to Live”. It’s also a great place to visit, vacation and explore. The Town of Rangely hosts excellent overnight accommodations and restaurants. We pride ourselves on making our visitors feel welcome and hope that your stay in our community is memorable. 290 E. Main St., Rangely, 970-675-5290 www.rangelychamber.com

Westward hotel

colorado northwestern community college

(Directly Bordering the Routt National Forest)

rangely chamber of commerce

Specialty Mexican food and margaritas. A locals favorite. 1111 W. Victory Way, Craig, 970-824-9812 www.explorecraig.com/marketplace/businesses/ vallartas-restaurant-mexican-cuisine “Enjoy Craig , Colorado… and when your head gets heavy, head Westward!” Free WIFI available, fridge and microwave in rooms. 517 E. Victory Way, P.O. Box 1206, Craig 970-824-3413 or 970-326-5500

Elkhead Mountain Lodge

White river electric association, inc.

The owner and employing broker of Backcountry Realty is a third generation Meeker native and has been a Colorado real estate broker since 1980. Steve and his oﬃce are at your service. Specializing in properties in the Meeker area and the beautiful White River Valley of Northwestern Colorado. 1130 Market St., Meeker, 970-878-4715 www.backcountryrealty.com

Vallarta’s restaurant

Do - It - Yourself

and Rio Blanco counties for more than 65 years. Area residents, workers and visitors count on Pioneers Medical Center to provide quality healthcare that includes a full-service hospital and Level IV emergency department, the Meeker Family Health Center. 100 Pioneers Medical Center Drive, Meeker 970-878-5047 www.pioneershospital.org

HUNTINGdireCtorY

you on your next visit to Craig! 627 W. Victory Way, Craig 970-826-4444 or 888-696-9720 www.elkruninn.com

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CrAig region [MeeKer, MAYBell, hAMilton, rAngelY, dinosAUr] shoPPinG

Colorado T-Shirts “We Custom Print”

Bring home a souvenir T-Shirt from Colorado • T-Shirts • Jewelry • Purses • Miss Me Jeans

• Antler Jewelry • Colorado Mugs • Souvenirs • Caps • Sweatshirts • Coasters • Candles

Headquarters for BS

Outfitters

Quality Deer & Elk Hunting!

THE

Bargain Barn

506 Yampa Ave. • Downtown Craig, CO • 970-824-4246

Gunsmoke Taxidermy Quality Work • Great Prices

Best Prices in the Area! 37399 N Hwy. 13 • Craig, CO 81625 970-826-4293

Check out our Taxidermy School at: www.gunsmoketaxidermy.com Enjoy Craig, Colorado, & when your head gets heavy

...head Westward.

Free WIFI, fridge and microwave in rooms

517 E. Victory Way Craig, CO 81625 Front Desk 970-824-3413 Cell 970-326-5500

Steve Wix - Broker Owner and Meeker Native Andrea Thiessen ~ Broker & Realtor Rachel Gates ~ Broker & Realtor

1130 MARKET STREET IN MEEKER, COLORADO …

For all of your real estate needs in Meeker and beautiful White River Valley. Commercial & Investment Ranches Residential Hunting and Recreational Properties See our listings with pictures on our web site at www.backcountryrealty.com P.O. Box 2107 • 1130 Market St. • Meeker, Colorado 81641 970-878-4715 • Fax 878-4780 • E-mail: backcountry@nctelecom.net

No One Knows This White River Country Like We Do! 122 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

range Global services

“We custom print.” We have a large selection of Colorado T-shirts, jewelry, Miss Me jeans, antler jewelry, and much more. Headquarters for BS Outfitters Quality Deer & Elk Hunting. 506 Yampa Ave., Craig, 970-824-4246

With a satellite phone from Range Global Services, all of your equipment and airtime service is included in one low monthly fee. There is no upfront purchase of equipment required. As an RGS customer, you also get peace of mind with the “Full Range Service Plan.” 888-386-9517, www.idgeurope.com

intermountain appliances

spiritpass

At Intermountain Appliance we inventory the area’s largest inventory of appliances. Whether you are looking for a washer and dryer, refrigerator, cook top, dishwasher, oven or stove — we have you covered. 583 Yampa Ave., Craig, 970-824-6945

Northwest Colorado’s unique trading post. We carry a large variety of gifts, jewelry, art, etc. 1111 W. Victory Way, Suite 134, Craig 970-824-2844 www.explorecraig.com/marketplace/craig/ businesses/spirit-pass

Miller Family appliance

super Wash, inc.

bargain barn

Serving all your appliance needs for 10 years! This family-owned business carries everything from stoves, dishwashers, refrigerators, freezers, washer and dryers and more. They offer outstanding customer service and products that will benefit your family. 211 W. Fourth St., 970-824-9380

Jack’s bumpers

Offering custom bumpers & headache racks for pickups, SUVs and semis; winches, lights, tow hooks and receivers. 350 Russell St., Craig, 970-824-2423 www.jacksbumpers.com

Pack center shipping

Offering UPS and FedEx packing and shipping services. 509 Yampa Ave., Craig, 970-824-7957

The nation’s premier turnkey car wash company. 1635 W. Victory Way, Craig 970-826-0731 www.superwash.com

the embroidery shoppe

519 Yampa Ave., Craig 970-824-6770 www.explorecraig.com/marketplace/craig/ businesses/embroidery-shoppe

the kitchen shop

A locally owned kitchen and gift shop. We carry a wide variety of knives, gifts, beer-making supplies and unique items. 577 Yampa Ave., Craig 970-824-8148 facebook.com/thekitchenshopofcraig

Pastor Linda Taylor | ltaylor7177@gmail.com

Come worship with us Sunday mornings at 10am Maybell, CO, off of Hwy 40, just past the park

Where to

www.lighthouseofcraig.com

Celebration Service Sundays at 10:30am @Moffat County High School AWANA Wednesdays at 6:30pm Celebrate Recovery Fridays at 7:00pm

www.thejourneyatfb.org

Holy Family

Sunday School for all ages 9:30am Worship Service 10:45am

“Come just as you are...”

1050 Yampa Ave., Craig (970) 824-5222 www.calvarycraig.org

St. Mark’s Church of Grace Located at 1150 West 9th Street Church Phone - 824.5926

St. Michael

678 School St. Craig 970-824-5330 Tues, Wed, Fri. Mass at 8:30 am Thurs. Mass at 6:00 pm Sat. Mass at 5:30 pm & 7:15 pm (sp) Sunday Mass at 9:00 am

Worship

A Caring Church in a Hurting World Located at 3107 W. 1st Street 970.824.2496

Wednesday Bible Study - 6:30pm

catholic mass!

879 Park Ave, Meeker Sun. Mass at 11:00 am & 1:00 pm (sp)

Everyone Welcome!

Sunday Sunday School 10:00am - 10:45am Worship Service 11:00am - 12:00pm

Join us for

HUNTINGdireCtorY

Maybell Bible Church

Fr. & Pastor Bain White 5pm Saturday Eucharist 657 Green Street Craig, CO 970.824.3470

St. Ignatius

109 S. Stanolind Ave., Rangley Sunday Mass at 8:00 am

Worship service at 10am 960 W Victory Way 970.824.6024 www.craigchurch.org

All Are Welcome Worship and Sunday School for Children at 10am Coffee Hour Follows Worship

First Congregational United Church of Christ

630 Green Street, Craig, CO

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GranD Junction reGion

GlenWooD sPrinGs, riFle, Montrose, DuranGo Gear, GooDs & suPPlies

centennial rV

1568 N. Townsend, Montrose 970-240-5008, Fax: 970-257-1444 www.aﬀordabletrailersinc.com

Western Colorado’s premier RV dealership carrying Cougar, Coleman, Open Range, Passport, Rubicon, Voltage, Fuzion, Reflection, Solitude, Momentum, and Whitewater Retros. 2429 U.S. Highways 6 and 50, Grand Junction 970-245-8886, www.centennialrv.com

all Metals Welding & Fabrication

colorado cylinder stoves

aﬀordable trailer sales

Known across the United States for specialized fabrication, welding, waterjet cutting and repair. 1707 U.S. Interstate 70 Business Loop, Grand Junction, 970-243-6310 www.allmetalswelding.com

area best Pawn

Cylinder and collapsible pack stoves, canvas wall tents and campfire rings. 2481 Commerce Blvd., Grand Junction 970-243-4595, Fax: 970-243-4595 info@coloradocylinderstove.com www.coloradocylinderstoves.com

Buy, sell, consign, trade and pawn guns. Reloading supplies available. 2014 S. Townsend Ave., Montrose, 970-249-4100

colorado e-bikes

bob scott rV

D W Metal Works

Serving Western Colorado and Eastern Utah since 1988. U.S. Highways 6 and 50, Grand Junction 970-245-2175, bobscott@recvehicle.com www.recvehicle.com

cabela’s

2424 U.S. Highways 6 and 50, Grand Junction 970-683-5000

561 25 Road, Grand Junction, 866-492-4328 www.coloradoebikes.com Made to your specifications, DW Metal Works, Inc. can handle all of your welding and fabrication needs with certified welders in our shop. 725 Scarlet Drive, Grand Junction, 970-245-2000 www.dwmetalworksinc.com

Fishers liquor barn

Fisher’s Liquor Barn has quite simply the best

FREE

selection of beer, wine and spirits on the Western Slope. 2438 F Road, Grand Junction, 970-242-0999 www.fisherliquorbarn.com

Gcr tires & service

Genuine. Complete. Reliable. 410 North Avenue, Grand Junction 970-778-3295 or 800-541-8473 1101 Winters Ave. Unit C, Grand Junction 970-773-5094

Grand Mesa Motorsports

1325 Highway, Delta, 970-874-8621 www.grandmesamoto.com

Grease Monkey

2857 North Ave., Grand Junction, 970-241-1895 www.greasemonkeygrandjunction30.com

Glenwood Springs next to Berthod Motors. 2802 S. Grand Ave., Glenwood Springs 970-945-6301 info@integramotorsports.com www.integramotorsports.com

Jim’s outback recreational Vehicle 1396 U.S. Highway 50, Delta 970-874-9372

line-X

Protective coatings. 549 Bogart Lane, Grand Junction 970-243-0777 GrandJunctionCO@line-x.com www.linexofgrandjunction.com

Mattas Marine & rV

We buy guns! 1210 N. Townsend Ave., Montrose, 970-249-6573 info@gundepotUS.com www.gundepotus.com

Full service RV and boat store, featuring America’s favorite Lance campers and travel trailers. Boats by Chaparral, Centurion, Alumacraft and Ranger. 2308 U.S. Highways 6 and 50, Grand Junction 970-241-8517, Fax: 970-243-8128 www.mattasmarine.com

integra Motorsports

Montrose implement & Motorsports

Gun Depot

Integra provides sales and service for Honda, Yamaha and Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, dirt bikes, street bikes and more! We are located in

Quality products from BRP and great service set us apart from the rest. 4690 N. Townsend Ave., Montrose

Yamaha Sales Event Going on NOW!

Pre-Hunting Vehicle Check 4Fluid Levels 4Belts 4Wipers 4Tires 4Battery 4Hoses 4Lights Expires 00-00-2015

••• SERVICES •••

Dennis Page, owner

A.S.A.P. Automotive 803 Ute Avenue Grand Junction, CO

124 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

Stop in to Save! Don’t Miss Out! 1235 Hwy 50, Delta, CO 81416 (970) 874-8621 www.GrandMesaMotor.com

14353

14359

A/C • ALIGNMENT • ACCESSORIES BRAKES • EXHAUST • FRONT ENDS PERFORMANCE UPGRADES • TIRES MAJOR & MINOR REPAIRS

grAnd JUnCtion [glenWood springs, riFle, Montrose, dUrAngo]

PDF automotive repair, inc.

As a full service Repair Shop, we can put our ASE certified technicians to solve your most diﬃcult problems! 1405 Motor St., Grand Junction, 970-241-4429

Pine country

Truck, auto and trailer sales. 2520 U.S. Highways 6 and 50, Grand Junction PineCountryInc@aol.com www.pinecountryinc.com

Pro Powder coating

Professional firearm and high temp coats, powder coating and sand blasting. Like us on facebook. 549 Bogart Lane, Grand Junction, 970-241-3422 propowdercoating@hotmail.com www.propowdercoating.biz

red rock archery

Full service provider since 1983. Bowhunter, target shooter or 3-D enthusiast, we have the resources to meet every shooter’s needs. 3193 Hall Ave., Grand Junction 970-241-2697

rifle truck & trailer

Over 150 trailers in stock, good selection of ATVs and snowmobiles. We appreciate your business! Open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

1725 Airport Road, Rifle 970-625-8884 or 877-625-8884 www.rttrailer.com

rocky toppers & rhino linings of Grand Junction

the colorado hunter

Learn pocket knife field dressing. 651 Clearview Drive, Clifton 970-923-099

Western implement

safari ltD.

Western Implement, in Grand Junction and Montrose, provides goods and services that keep our customer’s coming back again and again. 2919 North Ave., Grand Junction 970-242-7960 or 800-338-6639 www.westernimplement.com

scotty’s

Meat ProcessinG, taXiDerMY & Fur Dealers

Truck toppers & linings, grill guards, bed slides, steps, fender flares, tool boxes and other after market products. 529 Pitkin Ave., Grand Junction 970-254-9339 1005 Pitkin Ave., Grand Junction 970-245-5898, Fax: 970-245-6477 info@safari-ltd.com www.safair-ltd.com Scotty’s muﬄer is your complete car care center. 357 Pitkin Ave., Grand Junction, 970-263-4234 scottymuﬄer.com

Darryl’s taxidermy

springworks

eagle springs Meat

We can outfit your Truck, RV, Boat, Horse and Utility Trailers for the great outdoors. 555 W. Gunnison, Grand Junction, 970-242-4404 thespringworks@gmail.com www.thespringworksgj.com

sundance Marine

New and used boats, outboards, parts, Pro shop, service and fiberglass repairs. Your family fun link to water sports! 2490 U.S. Highways 6 and 50, Grand Junction 970-243-4333 www.sundancemarine.com

Don’t Be This Guy On Opening Morning!

159 29 Road, Grand Junction 970-243-2933 USDA meat and processing plant at Eagle Springs. We provide the freshest beef, pork, lamb, goat, fish, and poultry that you can buy. 1733 Railroad Ave, Rifle 970-625-5187 orders@eaglespringsmeats.com www.eaglespringsmeats.com

hawkins taxidermy

Award-winning taxidermy. 3549 G Road, Palisade, 970-433-3677 hawkinstaxidermy@gmail.com www.hawkinstaxidermy.com

hotchkiss Meats, inc.

Domestic and game custom processing. Over 30 varieties of award winning and smoked products. Since 1983. 219 High St., Hotchkiss 970-872-3030, Fax: 970-812-8131 Hotchkissmeats@TDS.net www.HotchkissMeat.com

kinikin Processing

Jerky, brats and summer sausage made in house. State inspected and cleanest meat processing plant in the area. P.O. Box 958 Road, Montrose 970-240-4329, Fax: 970-249-3557 jandjcarver@aol.com www.colorado-elk.com

orchard Mesa Market

Locally owned family market, provides meat processing, gasoline, propane, lottery sales, frozen food lockers, and wild game processing. 176 29 Road, Grand Junction 970-243-6601

rocky Mountain tanners

Rocky Mountain Tanners has been in business for over 20 years, showcasing all types of hide tanning services and custom leather products. 4965 S. Broadway, Englewood 303-293-2882 www.rockymountaintanners.com

Westelk supply

Colorado Transport Company 745 Struthers Ave., Grand Junction 970-549-4892

Come By & Check Out Our Fresh Produce! Open 7 Days a Week

Premium Jams, Syrups, Salsas & Beans for the Gourmet Chef in Your Family

Gifts for All Ages • Souvenirs for the Traveler

Stop by for a complimentary multi-point inspection before hunting season begins. 741 N. First St., Grand Jct. • 242-1571 • 800-323-6483 www.fuocomotors.com • Hours: M-F 7:30- 5:30

419 Main Downtown Grand Junction 3402 C½ Rd., Palisade, CO (970) 241-2091 • www.alidasfruits.com 2015 | colorado Hunter

| 125

HUNTINGdireCtorY

970-240-1720 or 888-240-1720 Fax: 970-240-1782 brian@montroseimplement.com www.montroseimplement.com

HUNTINGdireCtorY

licensinG aGents 1st stop

821 W. Tomichi Ave., Gunnison 970-641-6700

action shop services, the

2412 Access Road, Rifle, 970-625-0943 www.actionshopservices.com

alpine angling & adventure travel 995 Cowen Drive, Suite 102, Carbondale 970-963-9245

a-n-G’s Fly Fishing Guide service 20090 Barron Lake Drive, Cedaredge 970-856-4497

New Location Same Great Service!

area best Pawn & loan

2014 Townsend Ave., Montrose 970-249-4100

army & Factory surplus

2828 Glen Ave., Glenwood Springs 970-456-1737

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basalt center Fuel

122 Midland Ave., Basalt, 970-927-3599

Our new location at 1032 64.50 Rd will feature a retail meat market offering fresh beef steaks, pork chops, seafood and deli meats with a drive thru window.

battlement Mesa hardware 71 Sipperelle Drive, Parachute 970-285-6678

colorado trails ranch

12161 La Plata County Road 240, Durango 877-711-7843, Fax: 970-385-7372 www.coloradotrails.com

cox conoco

201 Railroad Ave., Mancos, 970-533-7728

big 5 sporting Goods

Delta hardware inc.

400 S. Camino Del Rio Suite A, Durango 970-247-1588

121 W. Gunnison River Drive, Delta 970-874-9515

big r of alamosa

Dennis Gillilan hunt, llc

148 Craft, Alamosa 719-587-0435

407 35 Road, Palisade 970-464-9235

big r of cortez

Department of Parks & Wildlife oﬃces

2424 U.S. Highways 6 and 50, Grand Junction 970-683-5000

151 E. 16th St., Durango, 970-247-0855 0088 Wildlife Way, Glenwood Springs, 970-947-2920 711 Independent Ave., Grand Junction, 970-255-6100 300 W. New York Ave., Gunnison, 970-641-7060 2300 S. Townsend Ave., Montrose, 970-252-6000

canon city sports outlet

Dove creek superette

1426 Royal Gorge Blvd., Canon City 719-275-9160

circle k ranch

27758 Colorado Highway 145, Dolores 970-562-3808

city Market

14867

203 Main St., Collbran 970-487-3341

723 Gunnison Ave., Lake City 970-944-2281

210 SE Independence Ave., Cedaredge 970-856-3151

126 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

collbran supply inc.

519 W. Tomichi, Gunnison 970-641-5782

cedaredge Foodtown

970.240.4329 • www.kinikin.com kinikinllc@outlook.com

2117 Rodeo Road, Collbran 970-487-3511

Dan’s Fly shop

cabela’s

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collbran creamery

berfield stage stop

1319 E. Main St., Cortez 970-564-5942

(Follow 64.50 Rd North off the Hwy 50 Bypass)

135 S. Plum, Fruita, 970-858-9506 1410 S. Grand Ave, Glenwood Springs, 970-945-0719 200 Rood Ave., Grand Junction, 970-241-2279 569 32 Road, Grand Junction, 970-434-8748 630 24 Road, Grand Junction, 970-244-8100 2270 U.S. Highway 50 South, Grand Junction, 970-245-1215 880 N. Main St., Gunnison, 970-641-3816 215 Sixth St., Hotchkiss, 970-872-2600 128 Townsend, Montrose, 970-249-2065 16400 S. Townsend, Montrose, 970-240-3236 850 Castle Valley Blvd., New Castle, 970-984-2067 165 Country Center Drive, Pagosa Springs, 970-731-6000 1320 Railroad Ave., Rifle, 970-625-3080

131 Market St., Alamosa, 719-589-2492 1703 Fremont, Canon City, 719-275-1595 1051 Colorado Highway 133, Carbondale, 970-963-3255 508 E. Main St., Cortez, 970-565-6504 122 Gunnison River Drive, Delta, 970-874-5488 6 Town Plaza Shopping Center, Durango, 970-247-1276 3130 Main Ave., Durango, 970-247-9435 0103 Market St., Eagle, 970-328-1302

445 W. Colorado Highway 666, Dove Creek 970-677-2336

Duranglers Flies & supplies 923 Main Ave., Durango 970-385-4081

eagle Mountain Mercantile

56 Talisman Drive, Unit 8C, Pagosa Springs 970-731-9900

eagle river anglers

25 Eby Creek Road, Eagle 970-328-2323

eagle travel stop

1040 U.S. Interstate 70, Palisade 970-464-7275

elk Point stables

21730 La Plata County Road 501, Bayfield 970-884-2482

grAnd JUnCtion [glenWood springs, riFle, Montrose, dUrAngo] Grand Mesa lodge

leisure time sports

needles country store

Five branches camper Park

Gunnison lakeside resort

lewis Mercantile

newberry’s store

Frost rV Park & country store

Gunnison river Fly shop

1874 Enterprise Court, Rifle 970-366-4340 4677 La Plata County Road 501-A, Bayfield 970-884-2582 21161 Baron Lake Drive, Cedaredge 970-856-3216

Fruita consumers coop locations 1650 U.S. Highways 6 and 50, Fruita 970-858-3667

Frying Pan anglers

132 Basalt Center Circle, Basalt 970-927-3441

Gardenswartz outdoor 780 Main Ave., Durango 970-259-6696

Gene taylor’s

201 W. Tomichi, Gunnison 970-641-1845

Glade Park store

16498 Ds Road, Glade Park 970-242-5421

Goods for the Woods

307 S. Camino Del Rio, Durango 970-247-5725

25861 Colorado Highway 65, Cedaredge 970-856-3250 28357 W. U.S. Highway 50, Gunnison 970-641-0477 300 N. Main St., Gunnison 970-641-2930

high lonesome ranch 0275 222 Road, Debeque 970-283-9420

Jerry’s outdoor sports

2999 North Ave., Grand Junction 970-245-1502

JP Flyfishing specialties 1100 Grand Ave., Canon City 719-275-7637

kmart

2809 North Ave., Grand Junction 970-243-6250

ken banks shooters World 1220 E. N St., Cortez 970-565-8960

kessler canyon

4410 Mesa County Road 209, Debeque 970-283-8990

110-D S.E. Frontier Ave., Cedaredge 970-856-3000

46825 N. Colorado Highway 550, Durango 970-247-1221

We have been serving the Pine River Valley for over 35 years. 311 Bayfield Center Drive, Bayfield 970-884-9502 P.O. Box 408, Placerville 970-728-3216

321 Main St., Olathe 970-323-5708

314 E. First St., Parachute 970-285-9170

old Grand Mesa corner Market

Montrose travel center

1440 N. Townsend Ave., Suite A, Montrose 970-249-7343 22 S. Townsend Ave., Montrose 970-240-4976

301 Broadway, Eagle, 970-328-6875

ouray apteka

outdoor World

6300 Garfield County Road 335, New Castle 970-984-2977

the nearly everything store

10986 Colorado Highway 65, Mesa 970-268-5484 611 Main St., Ouray 970-325-4388

Montrose true Value

150 W. Main St., Naturita 970-865-2616

norwood true Value

olathe hardware

Me 2 Firearms, llc

naturita sales

82111 U.S. Highway 50, Cimarron 970-249-5689 1635 Grand Ave., Norwood 970-327-4238

M & M Mercantile

Mr. t’s hardware & building

HUNTINGdireCtorY

Fred’s hardware

1234 Greene St., Silverton 970-387-5628

outfitter, the

21 Pike Drive, Pagosa Springs 877-645-6651

Paonia Farm and home supply 206 Rio Grande Ave., Paonia 970-527-3301

Opening doors is our business…let us open one for you!

(970) 945-1010 • www.vlgrealtors.com 930 Grand Avenue Glenwood Springs, Colorado 81601

HUNTER’S TROPHY PROPERTY Tuguvun Ranch is one of the largest parcels, 1,883 acres, offered for sale in the Garfield Creek area. Nestled in the midst of BLM and the Colorado State Wildlife Area with ponds & springs. Wildlife abounds! $5,500,000 LaPriel Armijo 970-379-0992

OFF THE GRID LUXURY Custom built log home located on 40 acres up West Elk Creek. The home boasts 4,374 SF with 3 BR & 3 BA. Large country kitchen & dining area. Upgrades throughout. Adjacent to BLM & near the White River National Forest. GMU #33. $750,000 Sara Dodero 970-379-3382

TWIN SPRUCE RANCH Hunters Paradise adjacent to BLM. 39 acres located in hunting area 42 with East Divide Creek running through it. 2,756 sq. ft. lodge, 4 BR, 4 BA, with solar power & generator back-up. Easily winterized. Year round access. $475,000 LaPriel Armijo 970-379-0992

SPECTACULAR COLORADO RANCH 280 acres located up Garfield Creek adjacent to the BLM and near the State Wildlife Area. Excellent big game hunting in GMU #42. The home has two separate living areas. Excellent water rights are included. $950,000 LaPriel Armijo 970-379-0992

19732

COLORADO SPLENDOR

Majestic views and abundant wildlife make this a special retreat! The 35 acres is adjacent to White River National Forest, has a 1,704 sq. ft. cabin with solar system, pond with fish & water rights. The West Mamm Trailhead is nearby. This is an exceptional property!! $475,000 LaPriel Armijo 970-379-0992

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rocky Mountain General store and Meats

22391 W. Colorado Highway 160, Bayfield 970-731-5646 14443 La Plata County Road 501, Bayfield 970-884-2563

riverside convenience store

Pleasant Valley

safeway

1110 Railroad Ave., Dolores, 970-882-3434

84100 E. U.S. Highway 50, Cimarron 970-249-8330

112 N. Spruce St., Gunnison, 970-641-0787 1414 Main St., Canon City, 719-275-5221 1329 S. Townsend Ave., Montrose, 970-249-8822 2001 Grand St., Glenwood Springs, 970-945-2002 1550 Colorado Highway 92, Delta, 970-874-9032 1580 E. Main St., Cortez, 970-564-9590 681 Horizon Drive, Grand Junction, 970-254-0227 2901 F Road, Grand Junction, 970-248-9871

Priest Gulch campground & rV 26750 Colorado Highway 145, Dolores 970-562-3810

rigs Fly shop & Guide service

565 Sherman Highway, Suite 2, Ridgeway 970-626-4460

san Juan angler, the

400 N. First St., Grand Junction, 970-263-7415 1834 N. 12th St., Grand Junction, 970-243-3125 2992 Patterson Road, Grand Junction, 970-241-3795 1412 Grand Ave., Glenwood Springs 970-945-7403

26363 Morgan County Road 3, Orchard 970-645-2628

ski and bow rack

354 E. Pagosa St., Pagosa Springs 970-264-2370

0760 Colorado Highway 133, Carbondale 970-963-2220

sportsman

238 S. Gunnison Ave., Lake City 970-944-2526

sportsman’s campground & Mountain cabins

skyline Food & Gas

562 Mountain Village Blvd., Telluride 970-728-8944

telluride sports

150 W. Colorado Ave., Telluride 970-728-4477

terry’s ace hardware

525 Navajo Trails Drive, Pagosa Springs 970-731-4022

tim’s tools

810 Main St., Silt 970-876-2784

timberline sporting Goods

1440 N. Townsend Ave., Montrose 970-249-7343

sundance rV camp

toad’s Guide shop

11674 Colorado Highway 65, Mesa 970-268-5651

309 E. Main, Montrose 970-249-0408

taylor creek Fly shops inc.

trader’s rendevous

183 Basalt Center Circle, Basalt 970-927-4374

27963 Colorado Highway 184, Dolores 970-882-2171

121 W. Colorado Ave., Telluride 970-728-3895

We focus on firearms (long guns and hand guns), archery, reloading, muzzleloading, firearm and hunting optics and all hunting and shooting sport accessories. 124 W. Second St., Rifle 970-625-4868 www.timberlinesports.com

sun Valley truckstop

shoreline Marina

roaring Fork Valley co-op

telluride sports

125 E. Meadows Drive, Glenwood Springs, 970-947-9563 2424 U.S. Highways 6 and 50, Grand Junction, 970-241-7977 3451 So. Rio Grande, Unit A, Montrose, 970-249-2706

2464 U.S. Highways 6 and 50, Suite A, Grand Junction, 970-243-8100

16020 U.S. Highway 50, Gunnison 970-641-2340

2205 Grand Ave., Glenwood Springs 970-945-0180

sports authority

sportsman’s Warehouse

sapinero Village store

roaring Fork anglers

telluride outside

2095 Taylor Lane, Pagosa Springs 970-731-2300

600 Main St., Suite 202, Durango 970-382-9978

rite aid

slavens true Value hardware 237 W. Main St., Cortez 970-565-8571

17454 La Plata County Road 501, Bayfield 970-884-0999

Pine river lodge

516 W. Tomichi, Gunnison 970-641-5077

Only what you need. GUARANTEED!

Hunter ’s Ge ar Box Special!

Now offering a full line of

must-have accessories

for your truck.

Buy 3 - Get 1 FREE!

Stop by or visit our website today!

970-243-0777

549 Bogart Lane, Grand Jct. linexofgrandjunction.com

Grease Monkey #30 2857 North Avenue Grand Junction 970.241.1895

21050

Dep t

Professional Quality, Affordable Prices

(970) 249-6573

21051

Gun

Call Us Today!

Troy Hawkins (970) 433-3677 Owner/Operator

Guns, Archery Ammo Hecs Cammo Buy • Sell • Trade

3549 G Road Palisade, CO 81526 19246

128 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

21312

Fluid Exchange on all 4x4s.

W G BU E U Y N S!

HUNTINGdireCtorY

grAnd JUnCtion [glenWood springs, riFle, Montrose, dUrAngo] Piedra store

www.hawkinstaxidermy.com | hawkinstaxidermy@gmail.com

grAnd JUnCtion [glenWood springs, riFle, Montrose, dUrAngo] colorado river Fruita (Park)

97 Main St., Unit E102, Edwards 970-926-0900

595 Colorado Highway 340, Fruita, 970-858-9188

colorado river-island acres

Vallecito resort

15247 64 6/10 Road, Collbran, 970-487-3407

crawford state Park

Valley ranch supply

57454 Colorado Highway 330, Collbran 970-487-3000

40468 Colorado Highway 92, Crawford 970-921-5721

other suPPortinG businesses

highline lake state Park

accurate construction & excavation

1800 11.8 Road, Loma, 970-858-7208

Wal-Mart

1835 E. Main St., Cortez, 970-565-6138 16750 S. Townsend, Montrose, 970-249-7544 3010 Blake Ave., Glenwood Springs, 970-945-5336 171 Yoder Ave., Avon, 970-949-6442 2881 North Ave., Grand Junction, 970-241-6061 900 N. Main St., Gunnison, 970-641-1733 1155 S. Camino Del Rio, Durango, 970-259-8755 2545 Rimrock Ave., Grand Junction, 970-248-0031 1000 Airport Road, Rifle, 970-625-5367 37 Staﬀord Lane, Delta, 970-874-1585

Jackson lake (Park)

Weekenders sports

ridgway state Park

141 W. Bridge, Hotchkiss 970-872-3444

Western anglers

413 Main St., Grand Junction 970-244-8658

state Parks colorado river-corn lake 361 32 Road, Clifton 970-434-3388

lone Mesa state Park

Our goal is to make your car buying experience the best possible. We offer a wide variety of new and used cars, Ford incentives, service specials and Ford parts savings. 2728 Railroad Ave., Rifle 970-625-1680, www.columbineford.com

ed bozarth chevrolet/buick

Quality. Value. Service. Selection. 2595 U.S. Highways 6 and 50, Grand Junction 970-986-4293 www.EdBozarthgrandjunction.com

alidas Fruits

1321 Railroad Ave., Dolores, 970-882-2213

28555 Colorado Highway 550, Ridgway 970-626-5822

Bringing you the best Colorado jams, jellies, syrups, Palisade peaches and chocolate-dipped fruits! 419 Main St., Grand Junction 970-241-2091 3402 C ½ Road (E. Orchard Mesa) Palisade 970-434-8769 www.alidasfruits.com

rifle Gap state recreation

asaP auto service

Mancos state Park

42545 Montezuma County Road N, Mancos 970-533-7065

5775 Colorado Highway 325, Rifle, 970-625-1607

sweitzer lake (Park) Delta, 970-921-5721

Fuoco Motor company

Honda, Nissan, GMC, Cadillac and pre-owned quality vehicles since 1934. Friendly and professional full service motor company. 741 N. First St., Grand Junction 970-242-1571 www.fuocomotors.com

Grand Junction chrysler

Emergency Service 803 Ute Ave., Grand Junction 970-210-0723

2578 U.S. Highways 6 and 50, Grand Junction 877-470-2542 www.grandjunctionchrysler.com

colorado Division of Wildlife

Grand Valley rural Power

Our Mission is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state, to provide a quality state parks system, and to provide enjoyable and

sylvan lake state Park

10200 Brush Creek Road, Eagle, 970-328-2021

845 22 Road, Grand Junction 970-242-0040

Operation Game Thief

WELCOME HUNTERS!

Operation Game Thief is a Colorado Parks and Wildlife sponsored wildlife crime stoppers program which pays rewards to citizens who turn in poachers. You can call us toll-free at 1-877-265-6648 or 1-877-COLO OGT. Verizon cell phone users can dial #OGT, or contact us via e-mail at game.thief@state.co.us. Callers do not have to reveal their names or testify in court. A REWARD OF $500 is offered for information on cases involving big game or endangered species: a $100 REWARD is offered for information on other wildlife violations. A citizens committee administers the reward fund, which is maintained by private contributions. The Board may approve REWARDS OF UP TO $1,000 for flagrant cases. Rewards are paid for information which leads to an arrest or a citation being issued.

21375

Quick Lane Service Center at Columbine Ford Open Monday – Saturday For Your Convenience.

Small Town Atmosphere – Big City Selection

Accurate Construction & Excavation

• Subdivisions • Dump Trucks • Demolition • Septic Systems

Serving the Grand Valley Since 1993

20548

Wildlife belongs to everyone. Poachers steal from us all.

RVs for Every Budget 2005 Seabreeze

Bring Us Your RV Consignment! 1. We take the calls! 2. We take the trades!

14210

2728 Railroad Ave, Rifle, CO 81650 • (970) 625-1680 • columbineford.com

Was $41,250 ON SALE FOR $38,500

3. We handle the financing!

2 slides, queen bed, very well cared for!

4. We do the advertising!

JIM’S OUTBACK RV, Inc.

1396 Hwy 50 • Delta, CO

#MH472

21200

970-858-6533

columbine Ford

We deliver a competent, courteous, educated workforce and ethical leadership to the energy and construction industries. 500 Greenway Drive, Fruita 970-858-6533 www.accurateconst.com

26363 Morgan County Road 3, Orchard 970-645-2551

• Roads & Driveways • Ponds & Lakes • Water & Sewer Lines • Rock/Gravel/Dirt/Boulders

sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities that educate and inspire current and future generations to serve as active stewards of Colorado’s natural resources. 711 Independent Ave., Grand Junction 970-255-6100

1526 Archuleta County Road 982, Arboles 970-883-2628

Vega reservoir state rec area

361 32 Road, Clifton, 970-434-3388

13030 La Plata County Road 501, Bayfield 970-884-9458

two rivers Marina/Park

970-874-9372

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Vail Valley anglers

HUNTINGdireCtorY

Grimsley upholstery

Upholstery for your auto, boat, RV or furniture. 804 Pitkin Ave., Grand Junction 970-245-3316

lewis true Value Mercantile 311 Bayfield Center Drive, Bayfield 970-884-9502

Grand Junction’s weed killing experts. Industrial sized discounts! Open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 745 Struthers, Grand Junction 970-549-4892

1605 U.S. Highway 50, Grand Junction 970-270-4866

Performance transmission

14351

Opening doors is our business ... let us open one for you! 930 Grand Ave., Glenwood Springs 970-945-1010, or 800-274-1453 Fax: 970-945-2593 www.vlgrealtors.com

Westelk supply

lou Dean’s treasure trove

Don’t miss out!

Vicki Green realtors

Providing high-quality service to Grand Junction and the surrounding areas. 504 Fruitvale Court, Unit C, Grand Junction 970-523-1986 www.performancetransmissionco.com

Withers seidman rice & Mueller Pc Serving Western Colorado since 1975. 101 S. Third St., Suite 265, Grand Junction 970-245-9075, 800-431-6975 www.wsrmpc.com

re/MaX4000

Great deals on Arctic Cat Wildcat side-by-sides and Snowmobiles going on now!

970-874-8621 1325 Highway 50 Delta, CO 81416

Search thousands of Grand Valley properties. 120 W. Park Drive, Suite 200, Grand Junction 970-241-4000 www.gjproperties.com

united country real Quest realty

Serving Grand Junction, Mesa County and the surrounding mountain communities of Western Colorado. 2518 Monument Road, Unit B, Grand Junction 970-256-9700 www.unitedcountry.com www.realquestrealty.com

RVs for Your Hunt 2015 Coleman 16FBS

Only 3,200 lbs., awning, A/C #36-63

MSRP $17,700

2015 Momentum 328 117 gallon water tank, 10’ garage #119-01

SALE $13,780

MSRP $79,439

SALE $67,500

We have all your RV parts & service for the hunt

Solar Panels

Generators

18342

Don’t Get Caught In The Cold

2429 Highway 6 & 50 Across from Mesa Mall

970-245-8886 • CentennialRV.com 130 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

2015 SILVERADO 1500

Silverado is the result of 96 years of Chevy truck know-how, road-tested over millions of miles. For 2015, Silverado combines proven power with impressive V8 pickup fuel economy and a quiet cabin with tough-as-nails ruggedness. The EcoTec3 engine family—our most advanced truck engines ever— includes an available 5.3L V8 generating 355 hp and 23 mpg hwy, for the best fuel efficiency of any V8 pickup. The optional 6.2L V8 powers a class-leading V8 trailer weight rating of up to 12,000 lbs. It’s raising the bar yet again for what the most dependable, longest-lasting full-size pickups can help you accomplish. We call it the Silverado. You’ll call it your next truck. MSRP from $26,170

ED BOZARTH & MARK MILLER CHEVROLET BUICK

2595 HIGHWAY 6 & 50 • GRAND JUNCTION 1-888-994-1322 • EDBOZARTHGRANDJUNCTION.COM

2015 | colorado Hunter

14988 | 131

HUNTINGdireCtorY

steaMboat sPrinGs reGion

haYDen, WalDen, oak creek, YaMPa, kreMMlinG, GranbY Gear, GooDs & suPPlies

firearms, gun-smithing, ammunition, spotting scopes and binoculars, rangefinders and hunting accessories. 1320 Dream Island Plaza, Steamboat Springs 970-879-7565

alpine Motor sports

ATV sales, service and accessories. 115 W. Central Ave., Kremmling, 970-724-9655 www.alpinemotorsportsinc.com

extreme Powersports

Carrying Arctic Cat, Husaberg and Schwinn, as well as ATVs, snowmobiles, prowlers, dirt bikes and scooters. Providing service and maintenance for all of your powersports needs. 300 River Road, Steamboat Springs 970-879-9175 www.extremepowersports.net

aqua Vita spas

1815 Central Park Drive, Steamboat Springs 970-879-4390 www.aquavitaspas.com

baP!

Outdoor retail shop and outlet store for BAP! (fleece apparel), Big Agnes (sleeping pads, bags and tents) and Honey Stinger (energy bars and gels) also sells other gear and clothing from manufacturers like Smith Optics and Smartwool. 735 Oak St., Steamboat Springs, 970-879-7507 www.bwear.com

Flat tops ranch supply

Farm supplies, animal feed, tack, tools, propane, sporting goods and gifts. 21475 Colorado Highway 131, Phippsburg 970-736-2450

hahn’s Peak roadhouse

60880 Routt County Road 129, Clark 970-879-4404 or 800-342-1889 www.hahnspeakroadhouse.com

bonfiglio Drug and liquor

Natural preventative healthcare, pharmacy, gifts, cards and sundries. 118 Main St., Oak Creek, 970-736-2377 or 877-Bonfiglio

kremmling area chamber of commerce Stop in and see us or visit our website for maps and information on where to eat play and stay while in the Kremmling area.

elk river Guns

Full-service shooting sports center with

203 Park Ave., Kremmling, 970-724-3472 www.kremmlingchamber.com

and soups. 103 W. Main St., Oak Creek, 970-736-2455

kremmling Mercantile

silver spur

One-stop-shopping for hunting and fishing licenses, liquor, groceries, clothing and boots, gifts, pharmacy, bakery, deli, gas, diesel and car wash. 101 Martin Way, Kremmling, 970-724-8979

Mountain view car wash is here to help, with 2 convenient locations to choose from. EAST: 635 LINCOLN AVE. BEHIND FRESHIES WEST: 1739 HWY 40 ACROSS FROM STORM PEAK BREWERY

Need some detail work done? Give us a call at 970-870-3363, we have a wide range of services to fit your detailing needs. Corner of HWY 40 & Trafalgar Drive • Steamboat Springs CALL OR STOP BY TODAY! 970-870-3363 All major credit cards accepted

132 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

south side liquor

Montgomery’s General Merchandise Groceries, ammunition, licenses, maps and sporting goods. 24 Main St., Yampa, 970-638-4531, www.montgomerysstore.com

Conveniently located off U.S. Highway 40 across from the Holiday Inn. Your one-stop shop for beer, wine, liquor and ice. 905 Weiss Drive, Steamboat Springs 970-879-5929

Mountain traditions

space station

Mountain home décor and accessories in the heart of Steamboat Springs. 833 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-7976, www.mountaintraditions.com

Gas and convenience store conveniently located in downtown Oak Creek and Steamboat Springs. 312 Myers St., Oak Creek, 970-736-8319 644 S. Lincoln Ave., Steamboat Springs 970-879-1811

Mountain View carwash

steamboat Meat and seafood

150 Trafalger Drive, Steamboat Springs, 970-870-3363 www.steamboatcarwash.com

select super Markets

Local super market carrying groceries and produce. In-store deli serving fresh sandwiches

hunting & FiShing LicenSeS & SuPPLieS giFtS Liquor Store Pharmacy grocerieS generaL merchandiSe cLothing & BootS deLi & Bakery gaS & dieSeL car wash

ARE YOU HUNTING FOR A GOOD VEHICLE CLEAN AFTER BAGGING YOUR TROPHY ELK?

Fine gold and silver custom jewelry. Unique elk tooth jewelry pieces. P.O. Box 771717, Steamboat Springs 970-879-3880

Serving lunch and offers fresh and frozen seafood, meats, gourmet sausages, homemade pastas and more. Plus, all your butchering needs. 1030 Yampa St., 970-879-3504 www.steamboatseafood.com

$899

SingLetoPPing Pizza

$9.49 muLti-toPPing Pizza ExpirEs 11/30/2015 2015 Colorado HuntEr MagazinE

Located at the west end of town - 101 Martin way

Store 970-724-8979 • Pharmacy 970-724-3205 • Liquor 970-724-8995

The Moose Café

Make tracks down to the local’s favorite Fluffy pancakes • Omelets Burgers • Burritos Ice Cream Treats off with Specialty Coffees & Teas couPon (excluding alcohol) Homemade Desserts Exp 11/30/2015 CoHuntEr15 Our Famous “Moose Wear” & Gifts

10%

970-724-9987

loCatEd at tHE wEst End of town aCross froM tHE MErCantilE

site delivery available. 2989 Riverside Plaza, Steamboat Springs 970-879-5138 www.steamboatpowersports.com

straightline sports

The oldest fly-fishing guide service and shop in Steamboat. We also have boots, shoes, maps, knives, camping equipment and more. Plus, come check out our new bow shop! 744 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat Springs 970-879-7568 or 800-354-5463 www.straightlinesports.com

tri-river ace

Hunting and fishing licenses, propane, hay, shoes and Apparel, CARQUEST auto parts, sporting goods and more! 720 Tyler Ave., Kremmling, 970-724-9325 www.tri-river.com

union Wireless

1809 Central Park Drive, Suite 16, Steamboat Springs, 888-926-2273 www.unionwireless.com

uPs store

Specializing in the transportation of mean and mounts as well as shipping excess gear. Also your oﬃce away from home providing fax, copy, document and overnight delivery services. Central Park Plaza, Steamboat Springs 970-879-6161 www.theupsstorelocal.com/4730

b & l Quality taxidermy

Providing taxidermy and mounting services for game and fish. Expert knowledge in preparing your game for taxidermy services. 2101 Snow Bowl Plaza, Steamboat Springs, 970-879-1316

steamboat Meat & seafood

Individually process each game. Courtesy cooler available. Shipping available anywhere with shrink wrap, dry ice and insulated coolers. Specialty items also available. 1030 Yampa St., Steamboat Springs 970-879-3504 www.steamboatseafood.com

licensinG aGents city Market

hayden Mercantile

Walmart

kremmling Mercantile

Walden conoco

101 Martin Way, Kremmling, 970-724-8979

609 Main St., Walden, 970-723-4246

lake John resort

Yampa river state Park

2521 Jackson County Road 7A, Walden 970-723-3226

6185 W. U.S. Highway 40, Hayden 970-276-2061

north Park/Gould/Walden koa

shootinG ranGes

111 N. Sixth St., Hayden 970-276-3922

53337 Colorado Highway 14, Walden 970-723-4310 www.koa.com/where/co/06117

safeway Food & Drug

1825 Central Park Plaza, Steamboat Springs 970-879-3290

37500 E. U.S. Highway 40, Steamboat Springs 970-879-3766

clark store

shop & hop Food stop

General store, eatery, and coffee house, with on-site liquor store and post oﬃce. 54175 Routt County Road 129, Clark 970-879-3849 www.clarkstore.com

colorado Parks and Wildlife

346 Grand County Road 362, Hot Sulphur Springs, 970-725-6200 925 Weiss Drive, Steamboat Springs, 970-870-2197

35775 E. U.S. Highway 40, Steamboat Springs 970-879-2489

state Forest state Park

56750 Colorado Highway 14, Walden 970-723-8366

stagecoach lake state Park (Marina) 25500 Routt County Road 14, Oak Creek 970-736-8342

1805 Central Park Drive, Steamboat Springs 970-879-8115

byers canyon rifle range

P.O. Box 216, Hot Sulphur Springs (12 miles east of Kremmling), 970-725-6200 (Colorado Parks and Wildlife Hot Sulphur Springs oﬃce)

hayden shooting range

2 miles south of Hayden on Routt County Road 37, 970-870-2197 (Colorado Parks and Wildlife Steamboat Springs oﬃce)

routt county rifle club

P.O. Box 773116, Steamboat Springs (2 miles west of town on U.S. Highway 40), 970-870-0298 www.routtcountyrifleclub.com

three Quarter circles sporting clays and Driving range 26185 U.S. Highway 40 (6 miles west of Steamboat), 970-879-5649 or 970-846-5647 www.3qc.com

Gr e at fo r L ar Ge Gr ou p s!

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steAMBoAt springs region [hAYden, WAlden, oAK CreeK, YAMpA, KreMMling, grAnBY] corkies Mini Mart steamboat lake state Park Meat ProcessinG anD 61105 Routt County Road 129, Clark Sales, service and accessories. Maps and riding 597 Main St., Walden taXiDerMY 970-879-7019 information as well as helmet rentals and on970-723-4733 steamboat Powersports

HUNTINGdireCtorY

Vail rod & Gun club

1 Sporting Clay Way, Wolcott (just south of Interstate 70) 970-926-3472 www.lazyjranch.net

Walden Public shooting area

4 miles east of Walden on Jackson County Road 12E, 970-723-4625

DininG back Door Grill

Muddy creek cabins

the Moose café

Located at the west end of town across from the Mercantile. Home style cooking in a family atmosphere. Open 7 days a week from 6 a.m. until 2 p.m. 115 W. Park Ave., Kremmling 970-724-9987

old town Pub

134 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

M & M elk ranch

creekside cafe and Grill

From cabin lodging to gasoline, a grocery store, rentals and old-fashioned sit-down dinners inside a quaint lodge, the spot to fill your belly after exploring North Routt. 60880 Routt County Road 129, Clark 970-879-4404 or 800-342-1889 www.hahnspeakroadhouse.com

RESTAURANT HOURS 11AM-10PM YEAR-ROUND PICKUP WINDOW 8AM-10PM B AR 5PM-CLOSE 970-871-7888 · 825 Oa k St STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BackDoorBurgerGrill.com

Fourteen historic 1800s gold miners cabins are fully restored and include a bathhouse, wood-fired sauna, commercial kitchen and a general store. 64505 Routt County Road 129, Clark 970-879-5522 www.cabinsincolumbine.com Offering a wide range of products from custom steaks to specialty dog treats. Also offering the opportunity to shoot your own elk. 50803 Meadow Lane, Steamboat Springs 970-879-5200 www.mmelkranch.com

hahn’s Peak roadhouse

FEATURING BUCK HUNTER, PINBALL, MS. PAC-MAN AND MORE!

the cabins at historic columbine

Black Angus beef burgers to go, open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (or later) seven days per week. 825 Oak St., Steamboat Springs 970-871-7888 www.backdoorburgergrill.com Serving Yampa Valley beef and Yampa Valley Farms pork. Chicken fried steak, biscuits and gravy, local thick-cut bacon and more. 131 11th St., Steamboat Springs 970-879-4925 www.creekside-cafe.com

NEW! GAME ROOM IN UPSTAIRS BAR

loDGinG

This historic landmark features an all-new made-from-scratch menu bringing familiar classics to a whole new level. The draft list boasts up and coming local breweries. 600 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat Springs 970-879-2101 www.oldtownpub.jimdo.com

steamboat Meat & seafood co.

Serving lunch and offers fresh and frozen seafood, meats, gourmet sausages, homemade pastas and more. 1030 Yampa St., Steamboat Springs 970-879-3504 www.steamboatseafood.com

the shack cafe

A local’s favorite since 1969, serving hot and delicious breakfast and lunch daily. The pancakes can’t be beat. 740 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat Springs 970-879-9975

the tap house sports Grill

Sports grill and music venue, The Tap House is the place for fun, games, and food. Large parties welcome. Late-night entertainment. 739 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat Springs 970-879-2431 www.thetaphouse.com

Picturesque fully furnished log cabins Located at the base of the Kremmling Cliﬀs 970-724-9559 www.muddycreekcabins.com

oak creek Motel

Clean, affordable, friendly hospitality year round. Drive a little, save a lot! 408 Willow Bend just oﬀ Main Street, Oak Creek 970-736-2343 www.oakcreekmotel.com

Quality inn & suites

Conveniently located on U.S. Highway 40, Clean, comfortable and affordable rooms. Free continental breakfast, Wi-Fi and pool. 1055 Walton Creek Road, Steamboat Springs 970-879-6669 www.qualityinn.com

rabbit ears Motel

201 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat Springs 970-879-1150, www.rabbitearsmotel.com

red Mountain rV Park

Propane, showers, Wi-Fi, laundry, dump station and playground. 2201 Central Ave., Kremmling, 877-375-9593 www.redmtnrvpark.com

Wolford campground

Colorado’s newest reservoir. Camping, fishing, boating, water sports and picnic areas. Marina boat rentals available. 7 miles north of Kremmling 866-472-4943 www.wolfordcampground.com

Miscellaneous Feldmann nagel, llc

Attorneys in oil and gas, family, criminal defense, military, civil and wildlife law. The wildlife division defends recreationists, outfitters and outdoorsmen with corporate operations, hunting leases, ranch/family estate planning, hunting citations and release and hold harmless agreements. 1120 S. Lincoln Ave., Steamboat Springs 970-879-8616 www.colo-lawyers.com

rePs (reaching everyone Preventing suicide) P.O. Box 773324, Steamboat Springs 970-819-2232 www.preservinglife.org

christy belton ranch Marketing associates

Licensed real estate broker and member of Steamboat Board of Realtors since 1996, specializing in land development and farm and ranch transactions. 141 Ninth Street, Steamboat Springs 970-734-7885 www.rmabrokers.com

colorado Group realty – Vonnie Frentress

(David Baldinger, Jr., Ren Martyn, Bill Morris, Marc Small) Three locations in Steamboat Springs; 610 Marketplace Plaza, 56 Ninth St., 1855 Ski Time Square Drive, Steamboat Springs, 970-879-8100 www.steamboatsir.com

town & country Properties

Meeting the needs and goals of clients by placing their interests first since 1992. 106 E. Main Street, Oak Creek, 970-736-1000 www.steamboatarea.com

Specializing in Steamboat Springs real estate, Colorado Group Realty is knowledgeable in all areas including condos, luxury homes, ranch and commercial properties. 509 Lincoln Ave., P.O. Box 775430, Steamboat Springs, 970-276-9101 or 970-846-4372 vonniefrentress.homesandland.com Features ranches and farm land for sale, agricultural real estate appraisals, ranch property management, agricultural land loans and more. 3001 S. Lincoln Ave., Steamboat Springs 970-879-5544, www.hallhall.com

r bar none ranch

4,100 contiguous acres of prime elk habitat. 30 miles from Steamboat Springs. For sale by owner. 970-879-2149

Helpful Tips for your Trophy • Don’t short cape your animal • Call for information on “where” to cape • Don’t drag your animal • Keep your hide clean • Do not salt your hide unless it has been properly fleshed • If you are not sure, call or bring your animal to B&L Taxidermy

Come And See Us In Our New Location

2101 Snow Bowl Plaza, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 970.879.1316 or 970.276.2193 We Accept Major Credit Cards

ed 62 wn e 19 o ily sinc ffering guided and drop Famated camp hunting in a wilderness r ope type environment. &

Reservations requested.

info@steamboathorses.com www.steamboathorses.com Scenic horseback rides available • 2 miles left of The Clark Store

33 3

3 LE

TRIANG S

970-879-3495

DEL’

hall & hall real estate

RANCH

2015 | colorado Hunter

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steAMBoAt springs region [hAYden, WAlden, oAK CreeK, YAMpA, KreMMling, grAnBY] steamboat sotheby’s international real estate realty

HUNTINGdireCtorY

Western coloraDo Visitor inForMation bureau of land Management

Little Snake Field Office — 455 Emerson St., Craig, 970-826-5000; Kremmling Field Office — 2103 E. Park Ave., Kremmling, 970-724-3000; Glenwood Springs Field Office — 50629 Colorado Highways 6 and 24, Glenwood Springs, 970-947-2800; White River Field Office, 220 E. Market St., Meeker, 970-878-3800; Grand Junction — 2815 H Road, 970-244-3000, www.co.blm.gov, Lakewood State Office — 303-239-3600, www.co.blm.gov

carbon county Visitors’ council

If hunting is on your agenda, Carbon County Wyoming is unparalleled. A variety of terrains provides habitat for a wide variety of wild game species. P.O. Box 1017, Rawlins, Wyoming, 307-324-3020 or 800-228-3547 www.wyomingcarboncounty.com

colorado Department of transportation 877-315-ROAD, www.cotrip.org

colorado outfitters association P.O. Box 849, Craig, 970-824-2468 www.coloradooutfitters.org

colorado Parks and Wildlife

Grand Junction Regional and Area Oﬃce — 711 Independent Ave., 970-255-6100 Steamboat Springs — 925 Weiss Drive, 970-870-2197 Hot Sulphur Springs — 346 Grand County Road

362 (west of Byers Canyon), 970-725-6200 Meeker — 73485 U.S. Highway 64, 970-878-6090 Glenwood Springs — 50633 U.S. Highway 6 and 24, 970-947-2920 Durango — 151 E. 16th St., (970) 247-0855 Gunnison — 300 New York Ave., 970-641-7060 Montrose — 2300 S. Townsend Ave., 970-252-6000

colorado state Parks

Steamboat Lake and Pearl Lake State Parks — 61105 Routt County Road 129, Clark, 970-879-3922 or 970-879-7019; Stagecoach Stage Park — 25500 Routt County Road 14, Oak Creek, 970-736-2436 or 970-736-8342; State Forest State Park — 56750 Colorado Highway 14, Walden, 970-723-8366; Yampa River State Park — 6185 W. U.S. Highway 40, Hayden, 970-276-2061, www.parks.state.co.us. Info — 970-434-6862; reservations — 800-678-2267

colorado Welcome center at Fruita 340 Colorado Highway 340, Fruita 970-858-9335

craig Daily Press newspaper

466 Yampa Ave., Craig 970-824-7031 CraigDailyPress.com, ExploreCraig.com

craig/Moﬀat economic Development Partnership

The CMEDP is a public-private partnership

136 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

dedicated to supporting a vibrant, diverse, and stable economy for Moffat County. Business support programs and education. 50 College Drive, Craig, 970-620-4370 www.cmedp.com

craig sportsman information center

(Moﬀat County Visitor’s Center/Craig Chamber of Commerce) 360 E. Victory Way, Craig 970-824-5689 or 800-864-4405 www.craig-chamber.com

Delta area chamber of commerce, inc. 301 Main St., Delta, 970-874-8616 www.deltacolorado.org

Dinosaur national Monument

4545 U.S. Highway 40, Dinosaur 970-374-3000, Canyon Area Visitor Center www.nps.gov/dino

Fruita area chamber of commerce 432 East Aspen Ave., Fruita 970-858-3894 www.fruitachamber.org

Glenwood springs chamber of commerce

802 Grand Ave., Glenwood Springs 970-945-6589 www.glenwoodchamber.com

Grand Junction chamber of commerce 360 Grand Ave., Grand Junction 970-242-3214 or 800-352-5286 www.gjchamber.org/index.asp

Grand Junction Visitor & convention center

740 Horizon Drive, Grand Junction 970-256-4060

hayden chamber of commerce

252 West Jeﬀerson, Hayden, 970-819-5918 www.yampavalley.info/haydenchamber.asp

kremmling area chamber of commerce 203 Park Ave., Kremmling, 877-573-6654 www.kremmlingchamber.com

Meeker chamber of commerce

710 Market St., Meeker, 970-878-5510 www.meekerchamber.com www.huntmeeker.com

Moﬀat county tourism association

Blaze your own trail to Moffat Country and then stay awhile. With pioneer personality, the handclasps are firm and the smiles are genuine. This far-flung corner of Northwest Colorado is just the place to hang your hat and renew your spirit with discovery and adventure, we are here to help you do it all. 1111 W. Victory Way, Suite 117, Craig 970-824-2335, moﬀatcountytourism.com

Western ColorAdo Visitor inForMAtion town of south Fork

South Fork is located at 8,200 feet near Wolf Creek Pass, surrounded by the Rio Grande National Forest. Come play with us! P.O. Box 1030, South Fork 719-873-5512 or 800-571-0881 www.southfork.org

1519 E. Main St., No. A, Montrose 970-249-5000 or 800-923-5515

noaa’s national Weather service Weather Forecast oﬃce 792 Eagle Drive, Grand Junction 970-243-7007, www.nws.noaa.gov

stay the trail colorado

The mission of Stay The Trail Colorado is to encourage the responsible use of the roads and trails that are open to motorized recreation in Colorado. Stay The Trail Colorado is a program of the Responsible Recreation Foundation. P.O. Box 915, Wheat Ridge, 720-684-9960 www.staythetrail.org

north Park chamber of commerce 416 Fourth St., Walden 970-723-4600 www.northparkchamber.com

Palisade chamber of commerce 319 Main St., Palisade 970-464-7458 www.palisadecoc.com

steamboat Pilot & today newspaper

1901 Curve Plaza, Steamboat Springs 970-879-1502 SteamboatToday.com, ExploreSteamboat.com

rangely chamber of commerce

Promoting and fostering a positive business climate in our community. 209 E. Main St., Rangely 970-675-5290 www.rangelychamber.com

steamboat springs chamber resort association

u.s. Forest service maps

303-275-5350, www.nationalforeststore.com

u.s. Geological survey (topographical maps)

Central Region Oﬃces, Denver Federal Center, West Sixth Avenue and Kipling Street, DFC Building 810, Lakewood 303-202-4700 or 888-275-8747 www.topomaps.usgs.gov

u.s. Fish and Wildlife service

200 Lions Park Circle, Rifle 970-625-2085 or 800-842-2085 www.riflechamber.com

P.O. Box 25486, Lakewood, 303-236-4216 www.fws.gov

rocky Mountain elk Foundation

Quick, Friendly Service

Complete Professional Game Processing Your game will be processed individually and all meat is shrink wrapped and clearly labeled then given back to you. We ship anywhere and meat will be sent on dry ice and in insulated containers.

Hahn’s Peak-Bears Ears Ranger District — 925 Weiss Drive, Steamboat Springs, 970-879-1870 Parks Ranger District — 2103 E. Park Ave., Kremmling, 970-724-3000 or 100 Main St.,

Dedicated to enhancing wild sheep populations, promoting professional wildlife management, educating the public and youth on sustainable use and the conservation benefits of hunting. 720 Allen Ave., Cody, Wyoming, 307-527-6261 www.wildsheepfoundation.org

u.s. Forest service

P.O. Box 2984, Grand Junction 970-200-3003, www.rmef.org

Clean, Quality Workmanship

Wild sheep Foundation

125 Anglers Drive, Steamboat Springs www.steamboat-chamber.com

rifle area chamber of commerce

Walden, 970-723-8204 Rio Blanco Ranger District — 220 E. Market St., Meeker, 970-878-4039 Rifle Ranger District — 94 Garfield County Road 244, Rifle, 970-625-2371 Sulphur Ranger District — 9 Ten Mile Drive, Granby, 970-877-4100 White River National Forest — 900 Grand Ave., Glenwood Springs, 970-945-2521 Yampa Ranger District — 300 Roselawn Ave., Yampa, 970-638-4516

HUNTINGdireCtorY

Montrose chamber association of tourism

24 hour Courtesy Cooler for after hours check in

Specialty Items: Jerky, Sausage, and other snacks. 970-879-3504 • 1030 Yampa Ave. Downtown Steamboat Springs Open 7 days a week

Hardware

YOU

need to work

faster, so you can play

SALE $189.95 $579.95 $266.95 $275.95 $395.95 $505.95

1.9 bhp 14” 2.2 bhp 16” 2.0 bhp 16” 3.0 bhp 18” 3.5 bhp 18” 3.7 bhp 16”

$10.80 Gal

10% Off 2-Cycle Oil Including Synthetic

Chain Saw SALE Chain 3.8 bhp 20” $340.95 4.2 bhp 20” $459.95 4.4 bhp 20” $505.95 5.5 bhp 25” $791.95 Buy One Get The Second 6.0 bhp 25” $901.95 7.0 bhp 25” $1021.95 For

All Chainsaws will be ON$ SALE 49

38995

Specials on Chainsaw Chain & much, 38 much more!

ELAS 59.043$ 59.954$ 59.505$ 59.197$ 59.109$

Bar Oil

MS290 MS311 MS391 MS441 Mag MS460 Mag MS660 Mag

All Stihl Shirts

Chain Saw Chain Sharpener

10% $32.39 OFF

Reg. $39.99

12 Volt

KM 55 RC Power Head W/String Head Attatchment

$289.95

”02 ”02 ”02 ”52 ”52

Bonus Pak $34.95 MS180C With Purchase

MS200T

$289.95

MS200T MS211 MS250 MS271 MS261

SAWDUST DAYS ALL September!

KM 55 RC Power Head W/String Head Attatchment

Pak 5 MS180C

ase

Chain Saw SALE Chain 20” $340.95 20” $459.95 20” $505.95 25” $791.95 Buy One Get The Second 25” $901.95 25” $1021.95 For

Don’t miss our 34nd Annual SAWDUST DAYS

waS niahC niahC

ehT teG enO yuB dnoceS

21058

longer.

SAWDUST DAYS

SALE 1.9 bhp 14” $189.95 2.2 bhp 16” $579.95

MS290 MS311

SALE

Chain Saw |Chain 137

| colorado 3.8 bhp 20” $340.95 2015 Hunter

4.2 bhp 20” $459.95

northweSt colorAdo’S preMier MeAt proceSSer & retAiler regular Skinning is included in price. Trophy Services available

In a Hurry to Head Home? 24 hour turn around service Full shipping, pack for airlines, regular shipping boxes, cooler boxes, and dry ice! For THe “do-IT-YourSelFer” KnIveS, PaPer, SeaSonIngS and FaT!

Breakfast Sausage

Full line oF AwArd winning retAil MeAt For your cAMp!

Italian Sausage Jerky Snack Sticks

Polish Brats Summer Sausage

hAM - bAcon - SAuSAge beeF - pork - lAMb - poultry

Franks

Unparalleled experience in Game processinG

Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage and more!

383 East 1st Street Craig, CO 81625 970-824-3855

w h E n y O u t h i n k m E at. . . t h i n k B r O t h E r ’ S i n C r a i g ! 138 | visit www.coHunter.com for more

Business Hours

970-241-2697 2015 | colorado Hunter

14217

3193 Hall Ave. Grand Junction, CO

Tuesday - Friday • 12 pm - 9 pm Saturday • 10 am - 6 pm August Only Open Sunday • 12 pm - 6 pm

| 139

Rifle Truck & Trailer

OVER 150 TRAILERS IN STOCK!

Delivery Available

or scan here to connect!

View Our Inventory at www.rttrailer.com 2015 Arctic Cat M 900 Limited

2015 Arctic Cat Prowler 700

2015 Arctic Cat XR 550 LTD

2015 Arctic Cat Wildcat Sport XT

140

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We Appreciate Your Business

2015 Arctic Cat Prowler 700 XT EPS

970-625-8884 Monday - Saturday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm 1725 Airport Rd., Rifle, CO 1-877-625-8884 |

14048

! y a l P r o t un H , h s i F , Work