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unting & fisHin UNDER THE BIG SKY
a ré • Ad p u b l i c at i o n
Spring 2014
Big Sky Country:
Big-Time Fly Fishing Opportunities Await
IN THIS ISSUE page 2
Casting for Recovery
page 8
Conservation
www.GallatinRiverGuides.com
Montana. The word rolls off the tongue with ease, yet lingers like the memory of a great adventure. Fly fishing in Montana is a phrase burned into the psyche of anglers world-wide. In a state defined by open space and visual grandeur, mountain ranges that go-on for miles, and bend-after-bend of clear cold trout-water, the Montana of Big Sky Country is both a destination and a lifestyle—a penultimate experience for the traveling angler; an illustrious introduction for the first-time; and a continuous affirmation of correct decision for the resident. The waters and woods of the Big Sky area read like a who’s-who of angling legend. The Gallatin. The Madison. The Yellowstone. The Firehole. The Paradise Valley Spring Creeks. And that is only the water that is within an hours’ drive. Tack-on another sixty miles and the Missouri, Big Hole, Beaverhead, and dozens of smaller streams are a possibility. Big Sky and the immediate area is arguably home to the greatest density of world-class trout water on the planet. Most of the waters are accessible year-round. All are serviced by some of the regions’ best fly shops and outfitters. And if you’re reading this, chances are pretty good you’re smack-dab in the middle of it all. Regardless of the season, armed with the either the right knowledge or guide, or both, a wild Montana trout on a fly is near-by. Winter Season (December through March) Shortly after Thanksgiving interest in fly fishing wanes in Montana. For some that’s ok, for anglers in-the-know, it is a blessing. Winter fly fishing means less crowds, yet consistent fishing during the warmest part of the day. Anglers in winter must pay careful attention to daytime temps and the wind forecast. If the mercury climbs above 32 and the wind is calm, hit the stream. Expect to find a few midges hatching
during the warmest hours and consistent nymphing slightly before and after a hatch. Sleep-in, enjoy a cup of coffee, read the newspaper, then hit the Gallatin near Big Sky for a quick winter fly fishing fix. Weather this time of year can range from calm and mild to blizzard conditions. Spring Season (April through mid-June) This is the preferred season of many of the area’s world-class fishing guides. As the days get longer in early April, our water temps slowly rise. Spring starts with hatches of Blue Winged Olives, March Browns, and early season stoneflies such as skwala, capnia, and pneumoras. In addition to the prospect of surface feeding-trout, anglers willing to ply the depths with sinking lines and large streamer patters may very well find some truly trophy trout. As April fades into March and daytime temps hit the 60s and 70s the first of the mountain snowpack muddies our local freestones like the Yellowstone and Gallatin. However, arm yourself with accurate reports and clean water is usually nearby. The well-known Mother’s Day Caddis hatch is a gamble as some years run-off has begun, other years the trout gorge themselves in murky yet pre-runoff waters. The Yellowstone is most known for its Mother’s Day caddis hatch, yet the Madison and Gallatin both can experience superb dry fly fishing. A section of the Upper Madison opens in late May and a die-hard set enjoys stellar fishing for a few weeks before the summer-time crowds arrive. As the long days of June come to Montana and locals and tourists alike enjoy the sunshine, the angling season kicks-into high gear. Caddis will continue to dominate a trout’s diet, but it is the salmon fly hatch occurring in mid to late June that unofficially kicks-off the busy summer angling season. Weather is a little more (continued on page 4)
page 11
Application Deadlines
Hunting & fisHing UNDER THE BIG SKY
page 6
News Briefs
page 10
Upcoming Outdoor Events
Casting for Recovery Retreat Casting for Recovery’s eastern Montana retreat for women with cancer is August 22 – 24, 2014 in Alder, Montana. Applications are due June 13, 2014. Learn more and apply online through CCR’s secure application form at castingforrecovery.org/apply About Casting for Recovery Casting for Recovery was founded in 1996 in Manchester, Vermont, the unique brainchild of a breast cancer reconstructive surgeon and a professional fly fisher (at right, Dr. Benita Walton and Gwenn Bogart). CFR began as a local grassroots group with a big heart and an original national vision, and quickly received endorsements from medical and psycho-social experts for its innovative healing program model while at the same time provoking intense interest by national media. Casting for Recovery was founded on the principles that the natural world is a healing force and that cancer survivors deserve one weekend — free of charge and free of the stresses from medical treatment, home, or workplace — to experience something new and challenging while enjoying beautiful surroundings within an intimate, safe, and nurturing structure. We provide an opportunity for women whose lives have been profoundly affected by the disease to gather in a natural setting and learn the sport of fly fishing. Just as importantly, the retreats offer an opportunity to meet new friends, network, exchange information, and have fun. Our weekend retreats incorporate counseling, educational services, and the trained facilitators that staff each retreat, including a psycho-social
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ticipants are provided with medical education and guided by trained facilitators who help participants explore their own recovery process. Casting for Recovery’s welcoming environment—free of the constraints of treatment, family responsibility, and financial concerns—helps women take charge of their own wellness.
stock photo
therapist, a health care professional (e.g. physical therapist, nurse), as well as fly-fishing instructors and river helpers. Casting for Recovery has inspired the generous and loyal support of donors large and small, and continues to believe in its mission of providing women with powerful tools for healing at no expense to them. What is a CFR retreat? Our goal is helping one survivor at a time focus on the road to recovery. Casting for Recovery offers free, 2½ day retreats for 14 participants, the maximum number recommended for small group dynamics as well as for educational and psycho-social benefits. Fly-fishing instruction is the means used to help women gain skills to cope with recovery from breast cancer. We focus on wellness. In addition to learning fly-fishing skills, par-
Winter means
powder days, snowflakes on the tongue,
We focus on quality of life issues. The retreat program is designed to help women participate at their own pace, take time to care for themselves, engage in self-exploration, and acquire the mastery of new, fun skills—helpful tools when women return to the demands of their day-to-day lives.
We expand support and create new opportunities for survivors. Whether women are undergoing treatment, or are ten years beyond it, participants find that they share a common bond, can help each other address issues that arise post-treatment, and share an inspiration that often goes beyond what is available to them in their everyday lives. Who Is Eligible? Women at any age and stage of treatment and recovery from breast cancer are eligible for and can benefit from the Casting for Recovery experience (with medical clearance from their physicians, as each retreat’s schedule includes physical activities such as wading and casting a fly rod). Women emerge from retreats energized and recognizing the possibilities ahead of them. There is no cost to participants. For more information visit http://castingforrecovery.org
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10± acres, bisected by Baker Creek Groves of cottonwoods, river bottom meadow Abundant wildlife, native trout, expansive views
20± acres bordering State Land to the North Listen to Elk bugle, immense amt of wildlife Aspen trees & fir trees abound, great access
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An independently owned and operated broker member of BRER Affiliates, Inc. Prudential, the Prudential logo and Rock symbol are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license with no other affiliation of Prudential. Equal Housing Opportunity. All information contained herein is derived from sources deemed reliable; however, is not guaranteed by Prudential Montana Real Estate, Managing Broker, Agents or Sellers. Offering is subject to error, omissions, prior sales, price change or withdrawal without notice and approval of purchase by Seller. We urge independent verification of each and every item submitted, to the satisfaction of any prospective purchaser.
Hunting and Fishing Under the Big Sky -Spring 2014
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Flyfishing
Big Sky Fly Fishers Top Ten List
continued from page 1
consistent, but in our high mountain environment it is not unlikely to have 60 and sunny one day only to have Winter Storm Warnings the next.
1. Best River For Beginners: Gallatin River near Big Sky 2. Best River for Experienced Anglers: One of the Paradise Valley Spring Creeks 3. Best Trout: Native Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout 4. Best River for Lifetime Best Brown Trout: Yellowstone River downstream of Livingston 5. Best Salmon Fly Hatch: Upper Madison River 6. Best All-Around Dry Fly: Parachute Adams size 12 7. Best All-Around Nymph: Pat’s Rubberlegs in coffee/black in size 12 8. Best All-Around Streamer: White Zonker size 4 9. Best Ten Days for Dry Fly Fishing: June 20 through June 30 10. Best Ten Days for Streamer Fishing: April 25 to April 30 and October 5 through October 10.
Summer Season (mid-June through early September) For these few months, most fishing guides work seven days a week. Fly shops are buzzing with excitement and eager anglers asking “what’s hot?” The famous rivers are clear and see many anglers plying their waters. The smaller creeks and high mountain lakes are fishing well for those willing to engage in some extra effort. Dry fly, nymph, and streamer fishing all produce fish. As the excitement of the salmon fly hatch fades, anglers shift focus to smaller insects—golden stoneflies, Yellow Sally stoneflies, caddis, and later in summer small mayflies and terrestrials. Walk-and-wade fishing is possible on nearly all rivers and streams by early July. Do-It-Yourself anglers will find ample access via National Forest lands, in Yellowstone Park, and via state of Montana access sites. For those anglers desiring to hiring a fishing outfitter, advance reservations are highly suggested as during busy summer season the best Big Sky area fishing guides book-up early. Weather is consistently sunny and warm with temps in the 80s and 90s—plan for sunscreen and sun protection. Summers are beautiful, yet short in our area. You will certainly be enjoying your fishing on a shared resource as our magical
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mountain summer is no longer a secret. If you want consistent weather, sunny days adrift or astream, this is your season. If you want solitude and don’t mind a little pre-planning with diverse weather in-mind, consider spring or fall. Fall Season (mid-September through November) Rivaling the spring season, many long-time anglers desire fall in Montana. Gone are the tourist crowds and sunny-day anglers. Water temperatures have dropped to more trout-friendly norms. Hatches of Blue Winged Olives return, along with a few remaining grasshoppers. October caddis appear on the Yellowstone, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers. Dry fly anglers will find ample sight-fishing and head-hunting opportunities. Nymph anglers will enjoy easypickings. But…the appeal of fall fishing in our area is the tug of a trophy brown trout attacking a well presented streamer or woolly bugger. Weather can range from crisp Autumn days to wintry mixes of freezing rain and blowing snow. Consistent weather during the fall season is an anglers friend—a few days of sunshine and warm or a few days of consistently overcast and cool will result in active trout. Like spring, fall is a time to discover adventurous fly fishing in Big Sky country. - Pat Straub Pat Straub grew-up fishing the Gallatin River. He is the author of five books, including Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Fly Fishing, The Frugal Fly Fisher, and others. He has been a guide and outfitter in Montana for nearly twenty years, and owns and operates Gallatin River Guides in Big Sky. www. GallatinRiverGuides.com
The Big Sky Tri-Fecta:
Gallatin, Madison, and Yellowstone The Gallatin The river that literally “runs through it” here in Big Sky. Beginning as a trickle in Yellowstone Park, the Gallatin Runs for nearly a hundred miles…and its best fishing is right here in Big Sky. The water near Big Sky is home to over a combined thousand rainbow, brown, and Westslope cutthroat trout per mile. Toss in native Rocky Mountain whitefish and it is the ideal river for beginning anglers or for wetting a line for a few hours. Oh yeah, Robert Redford and Brad Pitt did film A River Runs Through It on the Gallatin near Big Sky. The Madison—Upper and Lower When the Firehole and Gibbon meet inside Yellowstone Park, the Madison is born. The “Upper” Madison is the water upstream of Ennis Lake. This is the nearest float-fishing river to Big Sky. Home to riffles, boulders, and runs a good guide on the Madison is money well-spent. Home to rainbow, brown, Westslope cutthroat trout, and Rocky Mountain whitefish, the Upper Madison should be on the radar of anyone resident or visitor to Big Sky. The “Lower” Madison, or river below Ennis Lake, is better fished in the spring or fall angling seasons, but is home to some very large brown trout. Walk-wade fishing on the Upper and Lower Madison is easily accessible.
Photos: Cover: Float-fishing a Montana river is the quintessential experience—big sky overhead, mountains in the background, a bent rod, and happy angler and guide. www.GallatinRiverGuides.com Opposite: This rainbow trout smashes a dry fly on the surface. Photo courtesy of Gallatin River Guides. Photographer Dave Edwards at Eagle Eye Edwards Photography Above: Brown trout like this trophy are often caught early or late in the angling season. Local knowledge was key in catching this beast. Photo courtesy of Maggie and Tim Kuhlman
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The Yellowstone A large, broad river a little over an hours’ drive from Big Sky, the Yellowstone River is lined with cottonwood trees and backed by the towering peaks of the Gallatin, Absaroka, Crazy, and Beartooth mountain ranges. Float-fishing with a guide is truly the best way to experience this river, as it is the longest free-flowing undammed river in the Lower 48. In addition to having rainbow and brown trout and Rocky Mountain whitefish, the river is also home to native Yellowstone cutthroat trout, a species traditionally found only in the Yellowstone River drainage.
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Hunting and Fishing Under the Big Sky -Spring 2014
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News Spring Black Bear Hunting Season Coming Soon MTFWP
Montana’s spring black bear hunting season opens April 15. Hunters may purchase black bear hunting licenses online at fwp.mt.gov, at Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks license providers, or print a paper license application and mail it in to FWP. Licenses issued through the mail may take two weeks to process. Spring black bear hunters should purchase their license by April 14. Black bear hunting licenses purchased after April 14 may not be used until 24 hours after purchase. Black bear hunters are limited to one black bear license a year. All black bear hunters are reminded that they must successfully complete Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ bear identification test before purchasing a black bear license. Take the bear identification test online at fwp.mt.gov; click the Hunter Education icon then click “Bear Identification Program”. Complete the training and test, and then present the printed on-line certificate to purchase a license. The training and test can also be obtained on paper, with a mail-in answer card, at FWP regional offices. The 2014 black bear regulations are available online on the FWP website at fwp.mt.gov, at FWP region offices and license providers.
The caller may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000 if the information they provide leads to a conviction for violations that may include: poaching, hunting or fishing out of season, trespassing, exceeding bag limits, nonresident purchasing resident licenses, vehicles in nonmotorized areas, littering, and theft or destruction of natural resources. To report violations or suspected violations, call 1-800-TIP-MONT, or go to the FWP website’s online report form. For more information, visit FWP at fwp.mt.gov and look forTIP-MONT on the Enforcement page.
FWP Releases Minimum Wolf Count For 2013
Population Stable—Livestock Depredations Continue to Decline Montana’s verified wolf population remained stable last year while livestock depredations by wolves continued to decline, dropping about 27 percent from 2012. A total of 627 wolves were counted in Montana at the end of 2013, compared to 625 last year, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ federally required annual wolf conservation and management report released today.
New Boat Validation Decals Required
“Among the best news is that confirmed wolf depredations on livestock took a significant drop in 2013,” said FWP Director Jeff Hagener. “And that comes on top of fewer overall agency control actions than the previous year.”
Owners of motorboats, sailboats or personal watercraft need to get new, free 2014-2017 validation decals for their watercraft soon. The current orange decals expired Feb. 28.
Overall, Hagener said Montana’s wolf population continues a stabilizing trend that’s likely a combination of suitable habitats being filled, smaller pack sizes, livestock-related removals by federal Wildlife Services, and hunter and trapper harvests.
MTFWP
Boaters who have permanently registered their boats, sailboats, or PWC must still obtain two free boat validation decals every three years at FWP regional and area offices, or by going to the FWP website at fwp.mt.gov; click Boat Validation Decals. Owners who order validation decals on the FWP website will receive the decals in the mail. Information included on a current boat registration receipt issued by the County Treasurer is needed to obtain the decals in person or on FWP’s website. For new boat or PWC owners, the County Treasurer’s office will provide the first set of validation decals when the watercraft is registered. Boat owners will obtain subsequent sets of validation decals at a FWP regional or area office, or online. For more information, visit FWP’s webpage or call FWP at 406-444-2535.
Help Take Care Of The Outdoors - Call 1-800-TIP-MONT MTFWP
Montana’s TIP-MONT “crimestopper” program is at work year round because wildlife crimes and vandalism occur year round. It’s a good idea to keep the TIP-MONT number handy—1-800-TIPMONT, or 1-800-847-6668. The TIP-MONT program rewards callers who report natural resource crimes, hunting and fishing violations, or vandalism in a Montana State Park or on other public lands.
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Hunting & fisHing UNDER THE BIG SKY
Hunting and Fishing Under the Big Sky is published four times per year and distributed at key locations throughout Southwest Montana.
“When considered as a whole, it appears those factors are continuing to curb wolf population growth,” Hagener said. Confirmed livestock depredations due to wolves included 50 cattle, 24 sheep, three horses and one goat in 2013, down 27 percent from 2012 loses of 67 cattle, 37 sheep, one dog, two horses and one llama. Cattle losses were the lowest recorded in the past seven years. The decline in wolf depredations continues a general downward trend that began in 2009. “For FWP, and we hope for others, it reinforces the fact that we not only have more tools for managing wolf populations, but that we’re applying them effectively,” Hagener said. “One of our top priorities is to minimize livestock losses and we think we’re continuing to make a positive impact there.” A total of 75 wolves were removed via lethal control, down from 108 that occurred in 2012. Of the 75 wolves removed last year for livestock depredations, eight were killed by private citizens with permits to take offending wolves or under Montana’s defense of property laws. FWP’s complete report is available online at fwp.mt.gov. The minimum wolf count is the number of wolves actually verified by FWP wolf specialists. The minimum number counted by FWP at the end of 2013 included 627 wolves. Montana’s minimum wolf packs were counted at 152, compared (continued on page 9)
It is the editorial mission of Hunting and Fishing Under the Big Sky to provide accurate and balanced coverage of hunting, fishing, outdoor and conservation news and events throughout Montana. If you have news you would like to share, please email information to reyadvertising@q.com. We proudly support conservation and hunting and fishing education.
Publisher: Mike Rey • marketing director: Chris Rey • production: Swenson Design Advertising: Rey Advertising - Mike Rey - (406) 539-1010 • Joseph Spinelli (406) 599-3679 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Gallatin River Guides, RMEF
DEADLINE FOR ADVERTISING AND EDITORIAL IS 7 DAYS PRIOR TO PUBLICATION: JANUARY, APRIL, JULY AND OCTOBER Hunting and Fishing Under the Big Sky -Spring 2014
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CONSERVATION
2014 Conservation and Fly Fishing Camp – July 13-17 Fifteen students from around the state of Montana and beyond will be selected to spend July 13-17, 2014 learning about fly fishing, fly tying, stream restoration, and many other topics, at Camp Watanopa on the banks of Georgetown Lake. There will also be a fish hatchery visit and creek fishing on private waters. Montana TU provides all fishing equipment and classroom supplies. We are looking for motivated individuals who are
excited to learn from experts about water quality, watershed management, trout habitat, insect life, fly casting, stream etiquette and more. Students do not need to know how to fly fish, but must be willing to learn, and we welcome the opportunity to introduce beginners to the sport! In recent years, we have had an approximate mix of two-to-one boys to girls, whose experience ranged from beginner to intermediate.
Students should be between 11 and 14 years of age. The fee is $300 to attend, which includes all meals, lodging & equipment use. Georgetown Lake is located near Upper Rock Creek, Flint Creek, and the town of Philipsburg, Montana. Questions? Please contact Kate Grant at 406-5430054 or kate@montanatu.org.
RMEF Achieves 4-Star Charity Rating for Sixth Consecutive Year their habitat and our hunting heritage.
MISSOULA, Mont.—The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation again garnered the highest rating available from Charity Navigator, America’s leading charity evaluator.
Forbes, Business Week, and Kiplinger's Financial Magazine, among others, featured Charity Navigator’s unique method of applying data-driven analysis to the charitable sector. Charity Navigator estimates that its 2013 ratings influenced approximately $10 billion in charitable gifts.
“This 4-star rating speaks volumes for our staff and volunteers,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “It’s yet another indication of RMEF’s commitment and adherence to sound fiscal management, accountability and transparency.”
“This ‘exceptional’ designation from Charity Navigator differentiates Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust,” added Berger.
Charity Navigator highlights the work of efficient, ethical and open charities. Its stated goal is to provide donors with essential information needed to give them greater confidence in the charitable choices they make.
Find details of RMEF’s 4-star rating here.
“Receiving four out of a possible four stars indicates that your organization adheres to good governance and other best practices that minimize the chance of unethical activities and consistently executes its mission in a fiscally responsible way,” said Ken Berger, president and CEO of Charity Navigator. “Only 3% of the charities we rate have received at least 6 consecutive 4-star evaluations, indicating that Rocky Mountain
Elk Foundation outperforms most other charities in America.” Charity Navigator data shows RMEF spends only seven percent on administrative costs and 2.8 percent on fundraising costs. Therefore, 90.2 cents of every dollar that RMEF spends go directly into its mission of ensuring the future of elk, other wildlife,
About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation: Founded over 30 years ago, fueled by hunters and a membership of more than 200,000 strong, RMEF has conserved more than 6.4 million acres for elk and other wildlife. RMEF also works to open and improve public access, fund and advocate for science-based resource management, and ensure the future of America’s hunting heritage. Discover why “Hunting Is Conservation™” at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.
Local Ducks Unlimited chapter earns place in President’s Elite: Bozeman chapter recognized nationally BOZEMAN, Mont. – April 3, 2014 – The President's Elite are among Ducks Unlimited's most prestigious volunteer chapters throughout the nation. Every year, the list is reserved for the chapters that raise $100,000 or more for DU's habitat conservation work. In 2013, the Bozeman chapter made the list as one of the organization's best fundraising chapters. "These fundraising events are the backbone of DU's habitat conservation efforts, and the volunteers who make up these chapters are the grassroots force making a difference for North American waterfowl populations," said DU President George Dunklin. "It takes a great deal of effort to achieve the President's Elite level, and these chapters deserve to be congratulated by every person who enjoys the outdoors." The Bozeman chapter earned a spot in the President's Elite out of the more than 2,600 DU chapters nationwide. DU's event fundraising system has be-
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come a model for other conservation organizations around the world and has funded a significant portion of the more than 13 million acres of wetlands and associated habitat DU has conserved since 1937.
chapters next year."
The 2013 President's Elite chapters also have the distinction of being honored during DU's 77th National Convention in St. Louis at the end of May, with many chapter representatives in attendance.
Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world's largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America's continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 13 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. For more information on our work, visit www.ducks.org. Connect with us on our Facebook page at facebook.com/ DucksUnlimited, follow our tweets at twitter.com/ DucksUnlimited and watch DU videos at youtube. com/DucksUnlimitedInc.
"DU chapters across the country are showing that the future of waterfowl populations and the wetlands that filter our drinking water and protect us from flooding are important to them and to their communities," Dunklin said. "The more money we raise, the more habitat we can conserve and the closer we are to preserving our waterfowl hunting heritage. I would like to personally thank all our President's Elite chapters for their achievement and look forward to seeing them among our distinguished
To see the full list of President's Elite chapters, visit www.ducks.org.
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WOLF COUNT
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to 147 last year but breeding pairs dropped to 28, compared to 37 counted last year. The continuing decrease in livestock depredations over the past four years may be a result of several factors including targeted wolf depredation responses—and the effects of wolf harvest by hunters and trappers, which may also account for the drop in breeding pairs in the 2013 count. “FWP’s wolf management program seeks to manage wolves just like we do other wildlife—in balance with their habitat, with other wildlife species and with the people who live here,” Hagener said. For the purpose of reporting minimum counts to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Montana is divided into three areas that reflect the former gray wolf federal recovery zones. The three zones cover the entire state and include more than one FWP region. Here’s a summary of the 2013 minimum counts verified for those areas: In the “Northwest Montana” area counts showed a minimum of 412 wolves in 104 verified packs and 16 breeding pairs, compared to 400, 100, and 25 respectively in 2012. In the Montana portion of the “Central Idaho” area counts verified a minimum of 123 wolves in 26 packs, with seven breeding pairs, compared to the 2012 counts of 93, 23, and four respectively. The Montana portion of the “Greater Yellowstone” counts include a minimum of 92 wolves in 22 packs, and five breeding pairs, compared to 132, 24, and eight respectively in 2012. The report shows that 231 wolves were taken by hunters and trappers in the 2013 calendar year—or between Jan. 1, 2013 and Dec. 31, 2013—compared to 175 taken in 2012. The additional 94 wolves harvested in 2014—as a result of the trapping season, which concluded Feb. 28, and the hunting season, which ended March 15—will be considered in the 2014 minimum wolf counts.
Enter Montana's SuperTag Lottery You could win a Hunt of a Lifetime! MTFWP
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is once again offering a SuperTag lottery for hunters to take another shot at the dream. Eight lucky hunters will win a SuperTag license. SuperTag chances are available for moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, antelope, elk, deer, bison, and mountain lion. One SuperTag will be drawn for each species. The SuperTag can be used in any hunting district in Montana-including Montana's legendary trophy districts. Revenue from the new SuperTag sales is used to enhance hunting access and boost FWP enforcement efforts. Deadline to purchase SuperTags is: July 3, 2014 How to Purchase You must have a current year's conservation license to purchase SuperTag chances. An unlimited number of chances may be purchased at $5 per chance. To purchase chances online go to FWP's Online Licensing Service. You’ll receive a receipt verifying purchase that lists your lottery numbers. SuperTag chances are also available for purchase at FWP offices and license providers. SuperTag drawings are held: mid-July each year If You Win a SuperTag If you win a SuperTag, and also draw a license or permit through FWP’s special permit license drawings, you will be required to surrender that license or permit before receiving the SuperTag. FWP will refund the license fee associated with the special permit or license and reinstate any bonus points. Montana’s seven-year wait for individuals who draw a moose, sheep or goat license through Montana’s special permit license drawings will not be imposed on SuperTag winners.
Included among other mortalities are 10 wolves killed illegally and 10 by vehicle collisions. The recovery of the wolf in the northern Rockies remains one of the fastest endangered species comebacks on record. In the mid 1990s, to hasten the overall pace of wolf recovery in the Northern Rockies, USFWS released 66 wolves into Yellowstone National Park and central Idaho.FWP began monitoring the wolf population, and managing livestock conflicts in 2004. After several court challenges wolves were successfully delisted in 2011. FWP’s report is part of the annual federal recovery update required by USFWS. The end of 2013 count also shows that 659 wolves inhabited Idaho and 306 wolves inhabited Wyoming. The total northern Rocky Mountain recovery area’s minimum population count is 1,691 wolves, which includes wolves that inhabit portions of Oregon and Washington. Annual reports from Idaho, Wyoming, and information about wolves in Yellowstone National Park and the northern Rockies as a whole are available from the USFWS online at http://westerngraywolf.fws.gov/. The delisting of wolves in 2011 allows Montana to manage wolves in a manner similar to how bears, mountain lions and other wildlife species are managed, which is guided by state management plans, administrative rules, and laws. To learn more about Montana’s wolf population, visit FWP online at fwp. mt.gov. Click Montana Wolves.
Hunting and Fishing Under the Big Sky -Spring 2014
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upcoming events
FWP Seeks Comment On 2011 Wolf Hunting Season GENERAL 6/7/2014 WATERSHED FESTIVAL BOZEMAN 406-582-0526 Watershed Festival is an opportunity to learn about our local waterways, dive into aquatic life, and engage in a fish dissection! The kids Fishing Derby will kick off the event where you can catch and keep two rainbow trout! From seeing live raptors to eating good food, this is an event to start your summer off right! All activities are outdoors, rain or shine. Call 582-0526 or visit www.outdoorscience.org/Watershed for more information. 4/12/2014 - 4/19/2014 37TH INTERNATIONAL WILDLIFE FILM FESTIVAL MISSOULA 406-728-9380 The annual International Wildlife Film Festival kicks off with WildFest and WildWalk in Downtown Missoula and Caras Park. Don’t miss an unforgettable eight days of award winning wildlife films at the Wilma Theatre day and night and a stellar line up of filmmaker presentations with events at the Roxy Theater and beyond! Learn more at www.wildlifefilms.org. 4/19/2014 JUNIOR RANGER DAY DEER LODGE 406-846-2070 The park is celebrating Junior Ranger Day. The park will have the Junior Rancher Booklet. There will be tours, walks, kids activities, ranch programs and prizes. 5/17/2014 FVTU Annual Fundraiser Flathead Valley TU will be hosting their annual fundraising banquet and auction at Grouse Mountain Lodge in Whitefish. There will be a silent and live auction, as well as raffles and door prizes. http://flatheadtu.org/ 5/23/2014 NATIONAL BISON RANGE 106TH BIRTHDAY MOIESE 406-644-2211 ext 207 The National Bison Range was established on May 23, 1908 and we will celebrate its 106th birthday this year! Activities include the waiving of fees for all the scenic drives, trivia contests, historical displays, free posters and coloring pages for children. 5/23/2014 - 5/26/2014 BLACK POWDER SHOOT HAVRE 406-265-2483 This is the annual spring Black Powder Shoot, with shooters of all ages competing in numerous match events. Tomahawk and knife throwing competitions and a pancake race are part of the fun. 6/1/2014 NATIONAL TRAILS DAY AT LEWIS & CLARK CAVERNS STATE PARK WHITEHALL 406-287-3541 Events begin at 9am and run throughout the day. Things kickoff in the Main Visitor Center with a program featuring Park Naturalist Tom Forwood and representatives from the Jefferson County Weed District. They will speak on weed issues and identification, trail etiquette, and trail use. Following the presentation, volunteers will head outside at 10am for a morning of trail maintenance or weed pulling. Volunteers coming for trail work or weed pulling are asked to bring gloves. All volunteers will be entered to win trail-related prizes ranging from headlamps and medical kits to t-shirts and stuff sacks, to be raffled off at lunchtime. Lunch will be provided.
6/7/2014 - 6/8/2014 POWDER RIVER BUFFALO SHOOT BROADUS 406-436-2373 Using a traditional single shot or lever action rifle, .375 or larger, five metal targets ranging from 250 to 1,000 yards are shot. Six shots are fired at each target, with one target being off-hand. 6/14/2014 - 6/15/2014 MATTHEW QUIGLEY BUFFALO RIFLE MATCH FORSYTH 406-346-2763 This is a long range rifle competition using original or replica period firearms from the glory days of buffalo hide trade. Period attire is encouraged but not required. Largest shoot of its type in the nation. The longest target is a steel Buffalo at 800 yards. The firing line extends over 500 yards. Usually over 600 shooters from 33 states and 6 foreign countries. 6/21/2014 MADISON RIVER FOUNDATION GALA BANQUET ENNIS 406-682-3148 Held near the Madison River at the beautiful Sun West Ranch in Cameron, the Madison River Foundation’s “Guardians of the River” Gala Banquet is a glittering evening of gourmet cuisine, superb wine and entertaining speakers. Past keynote speakers have included such fly fishing celebrities as Brian O’Keefe, Ted Leeson and Seth Norman. The banquet benefits the work of the Madison River Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting the Madison River. For more information visit www.madisonriverfoundation.org or call (406)682-3148. 6/27/2014 - 6/29/2014 SNOWY MOUNTAINS MUZZLELOADERS RENDEZVOUS LEWISTOWN 406-535-2186 There will be pistol and rifle (patched round ball, open iron sights only) trail walk gong shoots, paper target shoots, knife and tomahawk throwing, fire starting, and archery (long bow), along with games for kids of ALL ages and fun shoots. A variety of demonstrations pertaining to the mountain man era will be of special interest to the public as will the Trader’s Row where vendors are welcome at no charge. 7/13-17/2014 Conservation & Fly-Fishing Camp Montana TU’s Conservation & Fly-Fishing Camp for youth ages 11-14 at Camp Watanopa on the banks of Georgetown Lake. For details and an application, visit http:// montanatu.org/projects/conservation-and-flyfishing-school/ FISHING DERBIES/TOURNAMENTS 5/17/2014 - 5/18/2014 KOOCANUSA RESORT SALMON & TROUT DERBY LIBBY 406-293-7474 Fishermen and women come from all over to partake in this event of catching the big one. Register early, grab your fishing pole and gear and come enjoy Montana’s finest fishing and hospitality. 6/7/2014 - 6/8/2014 ROCK CREEK WALLEYE TOURNAMENT ON FORT PECK FORT PECK 406-653-1463 Anglers compete for cash prizes that total 80% of the entry fees. Rock Creek Tournament is the first tournament on Fort Peck Reservoir and is part of the Montana Walleye Circuit.
6/15/2014 LIONS CLUB KIDS FATHER’S DAY FISHING DERBY ENNIS 406-682-5711 This is a great day for kids and dads. Kids under 12 can catch ‘big’ fish in the little pond at the park while the dads act as fishing coaches. Prizes given for various age groups. Enjoy a delicious and free barbecue in the park, at 1:00pm, following the Fishing Derby. CANYON FERRY WALLEYE FESTIVAL TOWNSEND 406-266-5582 The Canyon Ferry Walleye Tournament is sponsored by the Townsend Chamber of Commerce. Approximately $25,000 in cash and prizes, special prizes for male/female and adult/ child teams. 7/10/2014 - 7/12/2014 MONTANA GOVERNOR’S CUP WALLEYE TOURNAMENT FORT PECK 406-228-2222 The Montana Governor’s Walleye Tournament brings anglers, from 18 states, Canada and all over Montana, who are willing to pay $400 per team to try for the $15,000 first place prize. Cash and merchandise prizes are given to the top 20% of the 200 two person teams. This is also an event for the entire family with a Gals & Guys Tournament on Thursday morning and a Youth Fishing Festival on Saturday morning. Other events are a barbecue for the fisherman and families and a Fish Fry open to the Public. 7/12/2014 BROADWATER ROD & GUN CLUB WALLEYE DERBY TOWNSEND 406-266-5279 This is a one day walleye tournament on Canyon Ferry Lake, limited to 75 teams with a $1,000 cash first prize. Cash prizes will be awarded in all categories. RMEF Banquets 4/19/2014 Giant Springs Big Game Banquet Great Falls, MT Sue Della Rossa, 406-452-4349 5/3/2014 Vigilante Big Game Banquet Ennis, MT Cathy Toot, 406-682-7857 Ducks Unlimited Banquets 4/12/2014 Gardiner Ducks Call Eric (406) 581-2457 for your tickets today! Flathead Valley (Kalispell) Call Tom (406) 261-6260 for your tickets today! 4/26/2014 Blackfoot River (Lincoln) Call Ernie or Renee at (406) 362-4072 for your tickets today! Kootenai Valley (Libby) Call Jon at (406) 293-8246 for your tickets today! 5/2/2014 Great Falls Call Beau at (406) 231-0611 for your tickets today! 5/3/2014 Central Montana (Lewistown) Call Adam or Tia Carr (406) 535-2577 for your tickets today!
This is just a sampling of events going on throughout the state of Montana. If you would like to include your event on our calendar, please submit them to reyadvertising@q.com
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Hunting and Fishing Under the Big Sky -Spring 2014
Recipe Corner Goose Breast Fajitas By Scott Leysath, http://www.huntfishcook.com/
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Marinating Time: 4-6 hours Cooking Time: 15 minutes Serves: 4
Ingredients • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
4 goose breast fillets, skin on or off 1 medium red onion, cut into 1/4-inch-thick rings 1 bell pepper, any color, cut into 1/4-inch-thick rings 1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed and thinly sliced 1/3 cup tequila (or substitute orange juice) 1/4 cup fresh lime juice 1/4 cup vegetable oil 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon ground oregano 1 teaspoon salt salsa warm flour tortillas lime wedges
Directions: 1. Place goose breast fillets in a shallow plastic or glass container. Arrange red onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño over goose. In a bowl, combine tequila with the next seven ingredients and mix well. Pour mixture over goose, onions, and peppers. Cover and refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours, turning often. 2. Pour off and discard marinade. Heat a large, heavy skillet over medium heat. Add goose and brown evenly on both sides, about 3 to 4 minutes each side. Add onions and peppers, and cook until onions are translucent. 3. Remove goose breast when still medium-rare. Allow to rest for a few minutes and then slice thinly across the grain of the meat. Arrange sliced meat on plates, top with onions and peppers, and serve with salsa, tortillas, and lime wedges.
2014 Application/Purchase Deadlines Big Game Antelope ....................................................................................................June 2 Bighorn Sheep ................................................................................ ...........May 1 Bison ................................................................................................. ..........May 1 Black Bear spring .................................................................................................Apr 14* fall......................................................................................................Aug 31* Deer & Elk special permits ...................................................................................Mar 15 special licenses...................................................................................June 2 Moose ................................................................................... ......................May 1 Mountain Goat..................................................................... .......................May 1 Mountain Lion general license...................................................................................Aug 31* special limited entry ..........................................................................Aug 14* Super Tags Antelope, Bighorn Sheep, Bison, Deer, Elk, Moose, Mountain Goat and Mountain Lion.......................................................................... .......July 3 *see species-specific regulations for license purchase restrictions.
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Issue 5 2013-2014
IN THIS ISSUE yellowstone PARK historic tourism Virginia city'S 150th Anniversary
Contact: Mike Rey 406-539-1010 reyadvertising@Q.com
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On Sale Now Across Southwest Montana Hunting and Fishing Under the Big Sky -Spring 2014
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Hunting and Fishing Under the Big Sky -Spring 2014