Montana UNTING & ISHING HMarch 2014 F News

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Marc Anthony Hunters are gearing up for deer season, hours, days; even months of FORD & MARINE scouting have been done. The perfect trees have been picked out for your stands, and now all that is left to do is waiting for a shot and 406.266.5207 • 800.336.2263 hopefully a deer will be on the ground. But, is it necessary to climb into www.BroadwaterFord.net | www.BroadwaterPreowned.com a tree to kill a big buck? The answer is definitely no. Marc Anthony, near Peoria, Illinois has close to 40 years of hunting 7675 Hwy. 287 N., Townsend whitetails under his belt, and he holds the world record for killing the HOURS: Monday - Friday 8am-6pm • Saturday 9am-4pm highest number of Boone and Crocket bucks with a bow. What makes this even more impressive is that Marc does all of his hunting from the ground, wearing a ghillie suit he designed specifically for bow hunters. I recently had the opportunity to ask Marc some questions regarding his success. Q: Why do you think you have the success that you do hunting from the ground, when other hunters struggle to harvest a deer with this technique? A: Hunting from the ground gives you more options than you would have from a tree stand. Once you’re attached to a tree, you’re stuck there. The ability to be mobile, re-adjust positions and to not be patterned by deer, are all reason why hunting from the ground gives you the edge on whitetails. The reason I have had success isn’t because I am a better hunter than anyone else, it’s because I am able to experiment and try options that may be considered outside the envelope. People struggle with this way of hunting, because they do not think it through before they execute a ground assault. Let’s face it; I didn’t create this way of hunting! The tree stand wasn’t introduced until only 100 years ago or so. Before that, the animals nearly went extinct from ground hunting and over harvesting, so that statement alone is proof animals can be killed from the ground. Q: In your opinion, what is the biggest mistake hunters make when hunting from the ground? A: The biggest mistake made from hunting from the ground is movement. Deer’s eyes are made up of cones and rods, like humans, but they have more rods in their eyes which makes them see great at night and minute changes in their surroundings. They can see a human move, whether it be in a tree or from the ground, from great distances. Q: How important is odor control when hunting from the ground? A: All odor control is important, period. But, human scent is easier to conceal from hunting from the ground than it is from a tree stand. When I give seminars, I demonstrate how human scent can be broadcast from a tree stand at greater distances than from the ground. At 20 feet high, in only a 1 MPH wind, your scent will travel ¼ of a mile in only 7.5 minutes. That’s the time it takes a person to climb a stand and get situated. From the ground, your scent starts from a much lower position and falls to your immediate surroundings. Even if a deer will bust you from the ground, it’s usually within 20-30 yards and by that time, I am already in full draw. Having said that, I very rarely ever get busted, but occasionally I do. (continued on page 46) March 2014 5 Dallas Land ScentBlocker’s Guide to COMPANY 112 Willow • Helena, MT. 59602 443-5110 Killing Coyotes www.dallas-land.com By: Jason Herbert Reprinted with permission from Bowhunting.net For more please go to: www.bowhunting.net

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The ‘mule kick’ was good for my confidence and after waiting till dark to look for my bloody arrow, I was pretty certain of a clean kill. Still, just to be sure, I elected to wait until morning to recover the deer. It was plenty cold 23 Acres overlooks Hauser Lake and I wasn’t in a hurry. Paved access w/utilities available. The next morning revealed to me a slight blood trail and I found the mature doe a short distance away. I was $180,000 MLS# 287461 hunting in some pretty thick cover and simply did not see or hear her fall. I also wasn’t the first to find her. In the brief time between shot and recovery the local coyotes found her and took advantage of the free meal. Starting at her hind quarters, the coyotes ate their fill. It looked fresh, like I might have scared them away while searching for her. I’ve since become dedicated to doing my share in coyote population control and am convinced that with a little know how and commitment, the average deer hunter can become proficient at killing coyotes. Not only are we helping the deer, turkeys and rabbits live well, but coyote hunting is a lot of fun! Scenic 20 acres Locating: As with hunting any animal, coyotes can’t be killed if they aren’t Off Hwy 12 W w/breathtaking views around. During deer season listen for twilight howling, look for tracks and looking down the Ten Mile Creek scat, and pay attention to kill sites and gut piles. Like I mentioned earlier, Valley, Priests and McDonald Pass. the calling card of a coyote pack is the hind end of a deer being eaten $169,900 MLS# 283432 within hours of the kill. While finding that a gut pile had been quickly demolished doesn’t guarantee the work of a coyote, it is a good sign. Trail cameras work great for keeping track of coyotes. Use the cameras similar to deer hunting by placing them along well used trails, water sources, funnels, field edges, bedding areas, etc… Coyotes really like to use the wind to their advantage, and anywhere deer or rabbits are supposed to be, the chances are good a coyote will be nosing around downwind. 5 Acres- Sunny Side Raptor Ridge Similar to roosting a bird while turkey hunting, drive around at night and listen for howling. Coyotes are social Stunning views of Elkhorns! animals and where there’s one there will be more. They use all sorts of vocalizations but the easiest to listen Well in. Excellent building site. for is their howling. If a handful of coyotes are overheard howling one night the chances are good they’ll be $139,000 MLS# 282716 around in the morning. Scent Control: It’s time to dust off or thaw out the old deer season clothes for another adventure! Swirling winds and unpredictable circumstances make scent control crucial when predator This issue is dedicated to my ADVERTISING Borders BLM hunting. A deer’s sense of smell Blue Cloud area. Vaulted ceiling, is amazing and a coyotes is just friend and hunting buddy, RICK HAGGERTY (406) 370-1368 pantry, garden window to look over as good- some even say better. Steve Hyde Publisher - Amy Haggerty - Helena, MT. the lush creek bottom, 2 propane In fact, coyotes are even less January 21, 2014 [email protected] fireplaces, lower level can be used tolerant of human odor than deer www.huntingfishingnews.net as a rental or mother-in-law apartment. are. Be sure to treat all of the We’ll miss you friend. The entire contents is © 2014, all rights $349,000 MLS# 287069 hunting clothing the same as in reserved. May not be reproduced without prior deer season with proper washing, consent. The material and information printed is from various sources from which there can storage, and transport being be no warranty or responsibility by Big Sky Outdoor News & Adventure, Inc. Nor does the critical. Like in deer season, don’t printed material necessarily express the get dressed until arriving at the views of Big Sky Outdoor News & Adventure, Inc. All photo & editorial submissions become the hunting location. Once all the property of big sky outdoor News & adventure, Inc. to use or not use at their discretion. scent free clothes are on, be sure VOLUME 11, Issue 1 to spray down everything with a Cover photo: ©Dennis Donohue|shutterstock Thank you to our readers who have let our Bring the Mounts! liberal layer of (thawed) Trinity advertisers know they saw their ad in the Beautiful home w/cathedral ceilings Blast or Ti4. Hunting & Fishing News. on 4 acres. Borders National Forest. Veteran coyote hunters will never Get your digital copy at Creek, pond, close to town, country feel. hunt a set unless the wind is www.huntingfishingnews.net $389,900 MLS# 287581 perfect for them. That’s good Please support the advertisers you see advice however, like in deer hunting, in this publication and let them know Contact one of our qualified Agents you saw their advertisement in Don Dallas 410-0406 long after the hunt is over, the Hunting & Fishing News. Curt Dallas 410-0769 uncontrolled human scent will Thank you and thanks for reading the Ken Rudio 439-5541 leave a lasting residual trail. Hunting & Fishing News. (continued on page 24) 6 - Hunting & Fishing News PLANNING A SUCCESSFUL New Hunt & Fish Licenses On Sale; By Kim Herfurt Deer & Elk Permit Applications Available Online ELK HUNT Colorado Parks & Wildlife MFWP Montana’s new 2014 hunting and fishing year begins March 1. Hunting in Colorado is an exciting adventure Licenses are now on sale statewide. that connects us with the land and our heritage. From the time of the original colonists who landed Additionally, resident and nonresident deer and elk permit applications at Plymouth Rock, and through the Great Depression and information is available online at fwp.mt.gov; we were a nation of hunter-gatherers. Somewhere in click “March 15–Deer & Elk Permits”. the recent past, it became more convenient for us to buy food at the grocery store, rather than The easiest way to apply for a deer or elk permit is online. prepare meals from our abundant natural resources. Paper application pamphlets will be available from Our diet now consists of many processed foods Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and most license providers... and hormone-aged meats, rather than the simple The application deadline is March 15... lean meats of our predecessors. The bounty the land provided was healthy and had flavors not Wading bull elk. Photo © M.Seraphin/CPW Nonresidents seeking to apply for big game combination, elk combination found in the food from the grocery store. Wild game is available in or deer combination licenses and deer and elk permits for the 2014 fall Colorado to hunters who plan ahead. Montana hunting season can also apply online or download an application from FWP’s website. Successful hunting today requires some education, some thought, and a good deal of hard work. In previous centuries, hunting was not considered To request an application by mail, write to: a sport, but rather a means of survival for most American families. Licensing Section; Montana FWP Today, the sport of hunting requires a “game plan”. P.O. Box 200701 Helena MT; 59620-0701 Current game management has provided the hunter with numerous species or call: 406-444-2950. from which to select. While each of the species of big game present subtle but significant differences in technique, many of the same principles used May 1 is the deadline to apply for moose, sheep, goat and to plan a successful elk hunt apply to other big game species in Colorado. bison licenses and June 2 for antlerless deer B and elk B This article will focus on the opportunities to hunt elk in Colorado. The first licenses and antelope and antelope B licenses. and most important step to any successful elk hunt is to plan ahead. To borrow Montana’s upcoming hunting and fishing license year runs from a phrase from the military: Prior planning prevents poor performance. March 1 to Feb. 28, 2015. (continued on page 15) March 2014 7 WHITETAIL SCOUTING WHILE SHED ANTLER HUNTING By Mark Kayser When I first started seriously looking for shed antlers back in the early 1990s people looked at me funny. They gave me permission to hunt private land with a directive to pick up every tractor-tire-piercing antler possible. I never saw another person out in the spring except some die-hard beaver hunters and ranchers checking their herds for newborn calves. My how times have changed. Fast forward to 2014 and it’s like moving from the Flintstone’s world to the Jetson’s. Today there are laws regarding the acquisition of dropped antlers, seasons for antler hunting, competition like an NFL game and even a market with as many ups, and downs as the Dow Jones Industrial. Nevertheless, I still can’t seem to get enough of tromping across the landscape looking for another dropped antler. Besides looking for bone I also use my shed antler outings as a preseason scouting tool. It’s especially beneficial in the whitetail woods, but I’ve applied many of the same scouting principals while trekking across mule deer and elk country as well. How can spring hiking give you insight for fall hunting success? Consider the following. First, fresh shed antlers provide a simple message to you and me. That message is that a particular buck survived the hunting season. Finding a fresh, brown antler guarantees the buck at least made it through hunting season and barring any unforeseen weather event or accident, the buck should be in the zip code for the coming hunting season. It’s solid proof that can’t be refuted. Now some of you may argue that your trail cameras give you the same information without burning calories. I agree, but disagree. Some whitetails have an aversion to smiling for the camera. Whether they are savvy, suspicious or simply camera shy is debatable, but I have friends across whitetail country that find sheds from bucks they’ve never snapped a portrait of. Second, shed antlers provide information on antler growth in your area. Bucks typically add big inches to their racks throughout their early years. Picking up an antler or a pair gives you the advantage of actually scoring a buck. According to Dr. Grant Woods, one of the nation’s most respected wildlife biologists, the average whitetail buck is at 90 percent of its antler growth when it reaches 4 ½ years of age. If you’re lucky enough to pick up sheds from a buck over the course of several years you can chart a buck’s maturation process and even determine if you should be adding minerals, or food back into your area to boost antler growth. It’s difficult to manage elk and mule deer in that fashion, but it’s an everyday deal for whitetail managers. (continued on page 30)

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Lindy Rigging Walleyes, Plain And Simple By Babe Winkelman If you’ve ever felt that “thump” when a big walleye has taken the bait... if you’ve ever seen your line spit out the spool on an open bail as a walleye makes a run... if you’ve ever leaned in for a hookset after your line has tightened... and if you’ve ever dipped the net on a big walleye on a Lindy Rig... then you know. Fishing with Lindy Rigs is the finest, simplest way to deliver live bait to walleyes. No doubt. I remember when the Lindy Rig was born... Some of the best walleye men who have ever wetted a line made it legendary. And if I had to guess at the number of walleyes I have caught on a Lindy Rig, I honestly couldn’t give you a number. It’s in the several thousands. Even though the Lindy Rig technique is famous, I know there are people out there who have never tried it. So I wanted to introduce you to the basics, and offer a few rigging pointers along the way. For those who do know about it, read on anyway, because a return to the fundamentals is always a good thing. As I mentioned above, the Lindy Rig is a live bait delivery method. It is most often associated with night crawlers, leeches and minnows. Although sometimes crayfish, mudpuppies, or even frogs have been Lindy Rigged. From your rod tip down, this is what this simple setup includes: on your main line you thread a slip sinker. The original Lindy Rig sinker has a telltale shape that allows it to “swim” with stability while resisting snags from rocks and other structure. As noted, it’s a “slip” sinker, meaning it has a hole through it that allows it to slide up and down on your line. After threading it on, you tie on a simple barrel swivel. The swivel is your sinker stop that also prevents line twist when dragging live bait (which can often corkscrew as it’s being pulled). On the other split ring of your swivel, you tie on what’s called a snell. A snell is a length of fishing line (usually mono-filament or fluorocarbon) with a hook attached to it. Snell lengths vary to whatever your preference is. And length choices often vary based on water clarity, the aggressiveness level of the walleyes on a particular day, and other factors. A 3-4 foot snell is average. Sometimes the choice at the end of the line is a basic, small hook. Sometimes it’s a hook with a second “stinger” hook attached. Or, as is the choice of many walleye anglers, the offering is a spinner rig with colored beads and a spinner blade (Colorado, Indiana or Willow style). Whatever setup you go with, this is where you affix your live bait. When fishing with leeches, the hook point goes right through the “sucker.” With minnows, typically they’re lip-hooked - although some anglers like to hook them through the center of the upper back to make them appear more distressed as they get pulled along sideways. Tail hooking them works too, so they’re being pulled backwards. With crawlers, they’re usually hooked through the snout. But sometimes, when fish are particularly negative and just nipping at tails, hooking a crawler “wacky style” through the middle of the body can result in better results. It makes for a fatter profile in the water (with two dangling ends) and because it effectively shortens the length of the crawler by 1⁄2, it can reduce short strikes. After the Lindy Rig is all set up with sinker, snell, hooks, spinners, bait, etc., the next step is presenting the bait on structure that’s holding walleyes. You simply open your bail and drop the Lindy Rig to the bottom, then slowly troll or drift at a speed that keeps the bait hugging bottom. A 3/8-ounce sinker usually works great at most depths and speeds. For faster trolling or Lindy Rigging in very deep water, switch to a 1⁄2-ounce sinker. As you troll or drift along, have your bail open with your line on your index finger. As soon as you feel a “thump” or “tap, tap” drop the line and give the walleye a free spool. As he runs, the line flows through the slip sinker so he never feels that weight. After giving him some time to ingest the live bait (times vary based on the feeding mood of the fish), click over your bail; wait for the line to get taught; then set the hook. It’s that easy! In addition to walleye fishing, Lindy Rigging works for a lot of other species as well. Fishing pike with Lindys and big suckers can be dynamite. It’s a great way to present baits to bass (often referred to as a “Carolina Rig”)...But hey, we’re talking about walleyes here, and for my money the most deadly and simple bait delivery technique there is for ‘eyes is the venerable, magical, diabolical Lindy Rig. Good Fishing. 10 - Hunting & Fishing News Sales Event

Fishing a Springtime Silhouette By Trevor Johnson

The definition of Silhouette is: the outline of a solid figure as cast by its shadow. For anybody that knows big rainbow and brown trout; this definition will get your fishing Sleeping Giant Prop Repair engine turning over! Springtime trout, along with a magnitude of on Site to Repair Your Props! other species, gather to shallow water during the springtime months. This is due solely to the shallow water warming faster and getting the trout’s feedbags going in full swing. The fish that are cruising in the shallows are there for a reason…FOOD! Wendy’s drive-thru line at lunch hour is the perfect example…it would be a pretty safe bet people are there for a burger. Just like a giant 26’’ brown trout ambushing the shallows for a tasty baitfish burger. During the springtime months (Feb, March, April) fish feed heavily to recuperate from the cold winter months and can be very aggressive. For this reason, it is my favorite time of year to bring out the big guns and start tossing junk into the shorelines!! As we all know, fish only see up and this creates a huge advantage in the world of silhouette sight fishing. What I mean by fishing a silhouette is keeping your bait high in the water column (usually 24” or less below the surface) creating an outline of a baitfish for the big boys down below. The aggressive fish are looking for a big meal, so don’t be afraid to throw big baits. It can be a slower method of fishing, but the rewards will make up for it. Just wait until a huge brown appears out of nowhere right at the boat! Unless you are a superhuman without nerves… (continued on page 19) March 2014 11 FISH LIKE A PRO Quick Tips from Berkley RIVER LARGEMOUTHS IN SPRING Tracking studies have verified that river largemouths make major spring migrations from wintering areas to shallow backwaters. Though miles may separate these habitat zones, fish unerringly arrive once ice has departed. In these shallow murky bays, look for the thickest available cover, including submerged grass, fallen trees, or emergent weeds. Cast or pitch tubes or lightweight jigs into any spots with cover, even those less than a foot deep. Work the area slowly, as bass don’t feed heavily until waters warm into the upper 50oF range.

JIGGING STREAM TROUT Stream trout feed more selectively than many gamefish. Whatever big trout are feeding on, whether it’s insect larvae or minnows, it’s important to use a presentation that looks and moves like the real thing. Most of the major diet items can be imitated by a jig. Tiny 1/64-ounce jigs tipped with a plastic nymph imitate nymph-stage insects, while a larger 1/16-ounce jig with a 1-inch white curlytail grub Don’t Miss a Day on the Water! imitates a larger pupae or small baitfish. Jigs can Ding, dent or major be worked slowly (bounced lightly across bottom) body work we can help. or swum through deeper waters of pools and runs. In summer, cast jigs along under-cut banks, around *All vehicles, boats, deeper wood, below cascades into plunge pools, trailers, and more. and behind boulders in runs. We repair them all. *Affordable prices *Lifetime guarantee Call today and FISHING A NEW LAKE let us help you When fishing a new lake, pick one section of it and get out on the concentrate your efforts in that one area. By doing water. this you are able to fine-tune the subtleties from structure to techniques without spreading yourself too thin.

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14 - Hunting & Fishing News PLANNING A SUCCESSFUL ELK HUNT (continued from page 7) Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance The application deadline for the big game license draw is usually in the first week inApril. To successfully select a Game Management Unit (GMU) that’s suitable for you, you should start early! Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has a Hunting Planner available that you can print for reference. http://wildlife.state.co.us/SiteCollectionDocuments/DOW/Hunting/HunterEd/HuntPlanner.pdf Careful planning is usually the difference between a successful harvest and an empty freezer. The Hunting Planner page will acquaint you with the dates of various seasons and the method of harvest information for each season: archery, muzzle loading, and rifle. Once you have decided the method of harvest that best suits your ability, you must practice with your bow, muzzle loader, or rifle frequently prior to your hunt... CPW provides hunters a wealth of information—free—...to assist in choosing a Game Management Unit (GMU) with abundant wildlife. The first step is to look over the GMU Map (11 MB) http://wildlife.state.co.us/SiteCollectionDocuments/DOW/Maps/ In general, you will find that if you were to divide the state into 4 quadrants using Interstate 70 to divide the state into north and south and Interstate 25 to divide the state into east and west, the majority of hunters are found in the northwest quadrant of Colorado. While the hunting opportunities are abundant in this quadrant, so are the hunters. The other three quadrants, while not ignored by hunters, are generally less populated during the big game seasons and present some wonderful opportunities for harvest. But general guidelines are just that, and in order to ensure a successful harvest, more information is necessary to put some meat on the table. At this point I would recommend you look at the statistics provided by CPW. http://wildlife.state.co.us/Hunting/BigGame/Statistics/Pages/Statistics.aspx. These statistics are divided into method of harvest (archery, muzzle loading, and rifle). They are also categorized by species (pronghorn, deer, elk, etc.). Upon first glance, the statistics may seem complex. However, if you take the time to interpret their meaning, the information can be extremely valuable. I am going to walk you through an elk hunting recap report so you can interpret it: (More Information on how to read CPW statistics) at http://wildlife.state.co.us/Hunting/BigGame/Statistics/Pages/HowToReadStatistics.aspx. On the far left, under “Hunt Code”, it says EE07601A . Let’s interpret this as it relates to the CPW hunt codes: the first “E” equals elk, the second “E” equals either-sex, “076” equals unit 76, “01” equals 1st season, and “A” equals archery. 1. Under “Quotas”, “Reg” equals regular quota, resident license, “LOwn” equals landowners, “NRes” equals non-residents, and “Yth” equals youth. You’ll notice that a total of 125 licenses were issued under this hunt code. 2. “No. Apps” equals number of applicants, the number of people who applied for this license as their 1st choice (Ch1) and 2nd choice (Ch2)—684 hunters had it as 1st choice, 148 had it as 2nd choice. 3. The next 2 columns show “Public” and “Land Own” statistics—that is the number of people who applied broken down by category—315 residents applied, 362 non-residents, no youth, 4 resident landowners, and 3 non-resident landowners. (continued on page 27) March 2014 15 2 GREAT DEALERS - LOTS OF SELECTION!

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States Set Seasons For Spring Chinook, White Sturgeon In The Columbia River Washington Department Of Fish And Wildlife Anticipating a strong return of spring chinook salmon, fishery managers from Washington and Oregon today set the initial 2014 fishing season to run through April 7 on the lower Columbia River. Starting March 1, anglers fishing downriver from Bonneville Dam may retain one marked, hatchery-reared adult spring chinook per day. The sport fishery will close in that area on two Tuesdays - March 25 and April 1 - to accommodate potential commercial fisheries. Anglers fishing above the dam will also have a one-fish daily catch limit for hatchery adult spring chinook during a season scheduled March 16 through May 9. The fishing area above Bonneville Dam extends upriver to the Washington/Oregon state line, 17 miles above McNary Dam. Barbless hooks are required in both areas, and anglers must release any salmon or steelhead not visibly marked as a hatchery fish by a clipped adipose fin. Ron Roler, Columbia River policy manager for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), said this year’s spring chinook fishery looks promising, noting that the initial seasons could be extended if enough fish are available for harvest. “The stage is set for a great fishery this year,” Roler said. “Not only is the run forecast well above average, but the light snow pack makes it unlikely that anglers will have to contend with high, turbid water as PHOTO COURTESY they have in some years.” Based on pre-season projections, 308,000 adult spring chinook will return to the Columbia River Basin this year, including 227,000 upriver fish bound for rivers and streams above Bonneville Dam. That compares to a return of just 123,100 upriver fish in 2013, Roler said. Under this year’s initial catch guidelines, anglers fishing below the dam will be allowed to catch up With over 20 years of fishing experience to 12,400 spring chinook before an updated run forecast is released in late April or early May. in Washington and Oregon and on the Another 1,325 adult upriver chinook will be reserved for anglers fishing between Bonneville Dam Columbia River, Steve’s Guided Adventures and the Washington/Oregon state line. can take you to the premier fishing spots and provide a great outdoor experience. To guard against overestimating this year’s run, the states will again manage the fisheries with a Phone: 360-609-1902 30 percent buffer until the forecast is updated with information about actual returns. “We’ve agreed to take a conservative approach until May, when we typically know how many fish are actually returning,” Roler said. “If the fish return at or above expectations, we will look toward (next page) 16 - Hunting & Fishing News WE HAVE MOST ANYTHING YOU NEED FOR FISHING Night Crawlers $2.00/dz Fishing Gear & Bait Biggest Cigar Selection •Coldest Beer Around Novelty Section 2 LOCATIONS 615 Helena Ave. corner Last Chance Gulch & Helena Ave. 406.443.8084 OR ON YOUR WAY TO THE LAKE at 200 S. Montana Off Highway 12 East - East Helena 406.227.6519

providing additional days of fishing on the river later in the spring.” Spring chinook fishing is currently open on a daily basis from Buoy 10 near the mouth of the Columbia River upstream to the Interstate 5 Bridge.

Under the new rules, the fishery for boat and bank anglers will expand upriver to Beacon Rock on March 1, with bank fishing also allowed from Beacon Rock upriver to the fishing boundary just below Bonneville Dam.

Above the dam, the fishery will be open to boat and bank anglers on a daily basis from March 16 through May 9 between the Tower Island powerlines PHOTO COURTESY (six miles below The Dalles Dam) Steve’s Guided Adventures and the Washington/Oregon Phone: 360-609-1902 state line. Bank anglers can also fish from Bonneville Dam upriver to the Tower Island powerlines during that time... The new fishing regulations for spring chinook and white sturgeon will be posted on WDFW’s website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/ rulechanges/... WDFW Lists Proposed Razor Clam Digs On Ocean Beaches Through April Wa. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Clam diggers looking forward to the next razor clam dig on Washington beaches now have two more months of possible options to consider. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has released a list of proposed digs in March and April, adding to one previously announced for Feb. 26-28. None of those digs has yet received final approval, but the list will allow diggers to start planning their next trip to the beach, said Dan Ayres, WDFW shellfish manager....Ayres said. “As usual, we’ll give the final word on all of the scheduled digs once we receive the results of upcoming marine toxin tests.” For more information visit http://wdfw.wa.gov March 2014 17 Walleye Appeal of Illegal Outfitting Linguine Conviction By Kris Winkelman www.winkelman.com Denied MFWP

A Cascade County District Judge has denied the appeal of a Red Lodge man convicted in 2010 of 38 counts of illegal outfitting on the Missouri River. The ruling may bring to a close a case that started in 2005 and led to a tougher law adopted by the Prep Time: 15 minutes 2009 Montana Legislature that Cook Time: 25 minutes makes outfitting without a license a felony. Main Ingredients: District Court Judge Kenneth Neill - Smart Floor Plan - walleye fillets, butter, garlic last month denied 51-year-old John Kebble’s appeal of his 1 ½ walleye fillets cut into July 2010 conviction. 406-266-5700 bite size pieces Fish, Wildlife & Parks Region 2 T butter 4 game wardens brought the 7809 Hwy. 287 S. 2 shallots (sliced) charges in 2007 against Kebble 2 garlic gloves (crushed) following numerous tips from legal Townsend 1 can minced clams outfitters about his fishing clients www.townsendmarine.com (drained) on the blue ribbon trout section of 1 cup chicken broth the Missouri River downstream of ½ cup white wine Holter Dam. 2 T lemon juice Because Kebble was not a ½ c chopped parsley licensed outfitter, game wardens A Four Seasons Trailer built with Rugged 2” Bonded Aluminum ¾ t oregano began an investigation that Frame, Double Mountain Insulation, Custom Built Off Road ¾ t basil culminated in a case that indicated Chassis. Equipped with Power Tongue Jack, Power Awning, 2T corn starch (mixed with Kebble guided 38 groups of water to thicken) anglers and made more than Aluminum Wheels, Beautifully Appointed Interior. $120,000 for the 2005 and 2006 ¼ c sour cream fishing seasons, which amounted 2 t butter to about six months work. Sale Price 1 box linguine noodles After a four-day jury trial, Justice of the Peace Kathleen Jensen $ Directions: sentenced Kebble to 36 days in 17,990 In skillet sauté shallots and jail and a fine of $12,730. At the garlic in butter, and then add time, Kebble could only be cited MSRP is $23,400 broth, wine, lemon, parsley, for misdemeanors. However, basil, oregano, and clams outrage over the case led the with juice. Bring to a boil, 2009 Legislature to put a bigger NEW UNITS ARRIVING DAILY! add fish, and cook until fish bite into the law. We have a Large Inventory of New & Pre-owned Units & Are flakes. Add cornstarch mixture In his appeal, Kebble’s attorney, Western Montana’s Largest Jayco Dealer and stir until thickened. Jack Morris of Helena, challenged Cook noodles while making the conviction on five issues:.. TRUSTED SINCE 1958 sauce. Once done, drain Neill denied the appeal writing, and add sour cream and “Justice Court did not err and butter to noodles. Add fish Kebble’s sentence should not be mixture. Mix well and serve. reversed.” Your Jayco Headquarters When notified of Neill’s ruling, Do you have a favorite Jim Kropp, FWP Chief of Law fish or game recipe that you Enforcement, said, “This case 2001 W. BROADWAY, MISSOULA would like to share? affirms our commitment to 1-800-823-2221 • 406-728-4040 email to: protect the state’s fish and wildlife www.rangitschbrosrv.com resources, like the Missouri River, [email protected] for all of our constituents.”

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Fishing a Springtime Silhouette (continued from page 11) I promise you will need a change of shorts! This method also works very well from shore on the lakes and rivers across Montana. We like to use light jigs with a lot of material so they don’t sink as fast in the water column. The key here is to keep the jig/streamer as neutrally buoyant as possible meaning it doesn’t sink or float when paused. The hatch we are trying to match is a crippled or wounded baitfish slowly swimming through the water column. Our favorite method is to cast out your jig/streamer and immediately start sweeping it back in a jerking fashion. We like to give it a POP, POP, POP and then let it rest for a few moments then repeat the same sequence. Don’t be afraid to fish this technique over deep water…we have pulled fish from upwards of twenty feet right to the surface! Creating a silhouette in the upper water column casts some big shadows below…I wouldn’t want to “Pretty Boy Floyd” Whitefish Imitation be casting those shadows in big trout water!! from Kit’s Tackle This method of fishing is not only a very successful way to target BIG FISH; it is a rewarding rush to say the least. A person becomes so in tuned with watching their bait flutter along it becomes mesmerizing. Then, all of a sudden, a giant banana yellow flash arcs across the water column and your drag starts screaming...and you probably will too! Trust me folks, when this happens, you just signed your life away to an insane addiction called silhouette fishing. As the goose bumps are exploding from my arms, I can remember last spring catching the biggest brown of my life weighing in at the 30” mark. I had the “Pretty Boy Floyd” jig almost back to the boat when a giant torpedo appeared from the depths. Gasping for air, I stopped my jig and then gave it a slight twitch. This fish, this moment, is what I would spend an entire lifetime out there to feel again. It hit with such ferociousness and velocity it literally shook my entire body hard enough to rattle me…this is good stuff folks. In the world of fresh water fishing, this is BIG GAME angling at its finest. KEEP IN MIND THIS IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE AND FUN WAY TO FISH GIANT SPRINGTIME NORTHERN PIKE IN MONTANA ALSO!! --TOOLS NEEDED-- Rods: A larger rod with an extra fast action tip. I prefer a 7’ medium power extra fast action (depending on the size of the baits you are using.) A fly rod also works very well for this application of fishing. I wouldn’t go below a six weight unless you want to get taken to the cleaners! There is a chance at very big fish here folks! Baits: I like to push the envelope and use very large baits up to 10’’ long, but this can make for a long day of fishing. We have had the best success on our Glass Minnows and Streamer jigs from 3-5” long. This way you’re keeping more fish in the strike bucket. You should see the looks I get from people when they see me throwing an 8-10” streamer jig on the Missouri River! Water: Upper MISSOURI RIVER SYSTEM IN MONTANA, Hebgan Lake, and also works very well on smaller rivers (Clark Fork, Big Blackfoot, Judith etc.) Line: Mono or fluorocarbon is a must here!! Big rainbows or browns won’t even give you a sniff with the braided super-lines. If you do use a braided line, make sure and use at least an eight foot fluorocarbon leader. Glasses: Probably the most important tool to the trade of Silhouette fishing. A good pair of POLARIZED glasses is a must in this game. This is as important as a good pair of boots for an extreme elk hunter. Camera: Not that there is a chance in heck you could forget the memory, but it is always nice to reflect on a photo years later! Of course you’re going to let your trophy fish go right?!?! March 2014 19 Say Hello To Success: Where to chase the Fish this Month Brought to you by

shore-anglers paradise on both sides of the river all the way down to Beaver Creek. Your favorite With a long, cold winter behind tackle will be useful, whether you’re us, it’s time to start looking forward throwing small spinners, jigging to longer days and warmer with a worm, or drifting fly patterns, temperatures that hint of Spring’s all should appeal to these tail-race arrival here in the West. trout. Walleye hunters can also Water’s edges will start to break expect good fishing below the Dam, out from the ice cover, and create as some giants have been caught opportunities for open water action here in the past. A jig set-up and now. fished near and along rocky bottoms will pick up the walleye now. This Hungry fish that have been trapped system is dynamite for both of underneath these freezer tops will these species of fish, so pack a be more than happy to see any heavy tackle box and lunch, and easy meal come their way. The all new “EMERALD SHINER” expect some spectacular springtime Low country lakes and reservoirs Glass Minnow from Kit’s Tackle fishing. will be the place to be as this available at Bob Ward & Sons transition slowly takes place. release for trout until the third Saturday For anglers eager to get out and in May with artificial lures. After the CLARK CANYON shake off a little cabin fever, a general season opens here, you can COONEY RESERVOIR RESERVOIR quick trip to area waters is just keep three brown trout daily. Some huge rainbow trout are feeding what the doctor ordered. If you travel west, and then south on anything in sight in this reservoir The good trout fishing will continue The action will really start to heat near Hamilton, you can also fish the located just south of Laurel, MT. It on this Southwest Montana up as we get further into March, Skwala hatch on the Bitterroot River. is known for it’s bigger sized trout as impoundment as the season continues. and you won’t have to travel far to These bugs will be found from the well as good walleye fishing. Fish Depending on the weather, of course. find some of the best action of the headwaters of the West and East along the rocky points here using a Concentrate on the south and year. Here are just a few spots Forks near Darby, downstream to smaller Countdown Rapala in a southwest sides of the reservoir for you might consider. beyond Florence. It’s a magical blue/silver combo for starters, slowly ice-out trout that will average 18 inches. time of the year, and a fly fisherman’s twitching your bait to attract these Bait fishing and jigging are popular paradise now. hungry fish. The wind can play tricks early season fishing methods here. OCK CREEK on your fishing here, so plan to move Black, purple, brown 1/32 ounce R around a bit, but there should be no jigs, with or without bait, fished Near Missoula - Montana is a state AINTED ROCK shortage of fish once you get settled in. on lightweight spinning gear will full of Blue-Ribbon trout streams, P produce trout. Fishing from a boat and one of the foremost is Rock RESERVOIR makes the most sense here in the Creek. This beautiful body of water Located southwest of Hamilton, you HAUSER DAM early spring. works through the Sapphire can expect fast action for rainbows Trout in these tailwaters just below Mountain Range before joining the Clark Canyon Reservoir is an on this sub-alpine lake. If warm Hauser Dam near the Helena Valley impoundment on the Red Rock Clark Fork River. It is located near weather sets in on the Bitterroot Valley, are big and aggressive. Through the town of Clinton, just off of I-90. River, and is most fished for expect ice-off conditions here. Brown the first part of March, you can have rainbow and brown trout, as well In these waters, you’ll find rainbows trout also inhabit these waters, and career days on these fish, which will a strong cutthroat population, big as some mighty fine burbot (ling) downstream from the Dam. A mix of average 16 inches, but can go as that are in the system. brown trout, and whitefish. small spinners or cured eggs and a big as up to 24 inches or better. Target As the days warm up expect Skwala beadhead nymph will attract big trout the first three miles of the river below Email us your fishing hatches to occur near the end of here in the early spring. Campgrounds the Dam for the best big trout action the month, and into April, as well are located around the Reservoir, early in the season. Shallow gravel photos: as a March Brown hatch. Nymphing and the exceptional beauty of the area bars, seam edges, and tail-outs is a good tactic for eager trout as makes for a great fishing destination below rocks or any debris along the [email protected] these hatches occur. Catch and you’ll want to have on your list. edges should hold fish. It’s a THE BEST FISHING BRANDS!

Stores in Bozeman, Butte, Hamilton, Helena and Missoula. Or shop online 24/7 at bobwards.com 20 - Hunting & Fishing News to hook into some big lakers now. Finding the right depth to fish, FLATHEAD RIVER whether you are trolling or jigging is 2014 SPRING MACK DAYS SLOUGHS key on this big lake. Flatfish, Kwik Say Hello To Success: Where to chase the Fish this Month fish, Hoochies, and big spoons are LAKE TROUT FISHING EVENT You’ll be able to fish for northern lures that work well, as do crankbaits. pike moving into the Flathead River Use your electronics to locate fish, sloughs now, depending upon how then move in for the action. ON FLATHEAD LAKE long the ice stays on the river’s th oxbows. As the ice begins to pull Marchthrough 14 back, pike will start looking for WILLOW CREEK warmer water and submerged th vegetation. Strikes can be hit and RESERVOIR May 18 miss, but there are some giants This wind-blasted lake north of Fridays, Saturdays, that inhabit these waters. Fish the Augusta is another impressive spot & Sundays shallow areas along the river, for big rainbows, and you’ll have except the five feet or less, where big pike good action here on fish that last week* like to soak up the rays of the sun. average 12 inches, but expect They will hit on dead bait (smelt), bigger. This reservoir is moderately Fun for jigs or a Rapala tossed into shallow sized at around 1,500 acres, and is everyone! water inlets. Start near the part of the WCR Wildlife Management Sportsmen’s Bridge access site off Area. Exceptional access around *Enjoy 10 straight fishing days from May 9th - May 18th at the end of the event. Hwy. 82 on the Flathead River or the lake makes for good fish the mouths of Fennon Slough opportunities to fish and camp. and Rose Creek as the ice The best fishing can be found along $ recedes. the face of the Dam where the trout Up to 150,000 in CASH & PRIZES hold up. You can also hit on big LATHEAD LAKE northern pike, and yellow perch here. 1-$10,000, 2-$5,000, 5-$1,000 F While you are in the area, you can & Over 5,000--$100 to $500 Tagged Lake Trout Lots of action on the “big lake” also fish at nearby Pishkun Reservoir Lottery Prizes ($1,000-$200)-all it takes is one fish/ticket to win this month as area anglers will be near the town of Choteau. fishing Spring Mack Days on the Plus-Top ten angler prizes $700-$200-best 18/33-days count-last day is separate Flathead. This annual event draws Good fishing. folks from all areas eager to bring Captains $250-(4 prizes), home cash or prizes, and a chance Smallest lake trout $250-(2 prizes), Largest lake trout $500 Top lady anglers $300,$200, $100, $100-totals used Youth anglers- (17-13) 1st- $200, 2nd-$150, 3rd-$75, 4-5th-$50 (12 & under) Forecast Looks Good For Chinook 1st-$100, 2nd-$75, 3rd-$50 will also be entered in the lottery drawing. Weekend Prizes-eleven $200 & $100 Salmon Season Idaho Fish and Game Golden Angler Award (70 & older)-$200 & $100 3 days of single/team-heaviest 4-fish Last Day Only: $300, $200, $100, & If the Chinook salmon returns for 2014 hold up to the early forecast, Heaviest Mack under 30”-$200 & $100 anglers could anticipate fisheries similar to those opened in 2008 and 2009. In those years, fisheries were opened in the Clearwater, Snake, BONUSES: ALL ANGLERS WHO ENTER 20 OR MORE lower Salmon, Little Salmon, South Fork Salmon and upper Salmon LAKE TROUT WIN. rivers. The higher your total is at the end of the event-the higher “The forecast suggests a return that’s larger than last year,” Idaho Fish your bonus-every day (34) counts. and Game Anadromous Fish Manager Pete Hassemer told the Idaho Fish and Game Commission Thursday, January 16. Fish Fry for participants & families-May 18th at Blue Bay 3:00pm “The fish are still out in the Pacific Ocean, but the forecast for numbers Awards Ceremony at 4:00pm of returning hatchery fish that anglers can harvest are similar to 2008 and 2009,” he said. Entry forms will not be mailed out. Northwest fish managers estimate that more than 227,000 spring Chinook salmon bound for waters upstream of Bonneville Dam will enter the Enter online at www.mackdays.com Columbia River this year - last year the actual return was about 123,000. or pick up entries at local sporting good stores - or you can even Of those fish predicted at the Columbia River mouth, 83,000 hatchery enter when you check in your fish at the check in stations during fish and 42,000 wild fish are predicted to be headed for the Snake Mack Days. It is easier if you enter before the event begins. River. Last year’s actual return to the Columbia River mouth was 45,400 We remind you to follow all fishing regulations. The Confederated Salish hatchery and 21,900 wild fish destined for the Snake River. and Kootenai Tribes have a special $12 fishing permit for the south half on Idaho fish managers estimate that 39,900 hatchery fish destined for Flathead Lake that is available wherever fishing permits are sold. Idaho’s Clearwater, Snake and Salmon rivers will cross Lower Granite Dam. Last year, only about 25,500 hatchery spring and summer Chinook salmon returned to the same Idaho waters. It’s too soon to tell just how many fish will actually show up, and what any fishing seasons might look like. Idaho fisheries managers expect to present proposed Chinook fishing seasons in the Clearwater, Snake, lower Salmon and Little Salmon rivers to the Fish and Game Commission Sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and in March. sanctioned by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks In years past, Chinook seasons have opened in late April. March 2014 21 Hunting & Conservation News HUNTING & CONSERVATION NEWS HUNTING & CONSERVATION NEWS Proudly Sponsored By Republic Services of Montana Service Reopens Comment Period on Wolf Proposal

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service © Twildlife | Dreamstime.com

FISHING | HIKING Independent scientific peer review report available for public review LODGING Following receipt of an independent scientific peer review, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is reopening the comment period on its proposal to list the Mexican wolf as an endangered subspecies and remove the gray wolf from the Endangered Species List. The Stay in one of our Service is making that report available for public review, and beginning four creekside cabins Monday, February 10, interested stakeholders will have an additional on the ranch, or our 45 days to provide information that may be helpful to the Service in Lodge in Augusta making a final determination on the proposal. that sleeps up to 10. BOOK YOUR SUMMER A Dream come true VACATION NOW! for the fly rodder and The independent scientific peer review was hosted and managed by small stream angler. 406-235-0176 the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (NCEAS), 3506 Hwy 435, Augusta, MT. a highly respected interdisciplinary research center at the University of California – Santa Barbara. At the Service’s request, NCEAS www.shocoranch.com sponsored and conducted a peer review of the science underlying [email protected] the Service’s proposal. “Peer review is an important step in our efforts to assure that the final decision on our proposal to delist the wolf is based on the best available scientific and technical information,” said Service Director DanAshe. “We thank the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis for conducting a transparent, objective and well-documented process. We are incorporating the peer review report into the public record for the proposed rulemaking, and accordingly, reopening the public comment period to provide the public with the opportunity for input.” The peer review report is available online, along with instructions on how to provide comment and comprehensive links relating to the proposal, at www.fws.gov/home/wolfrecovery. The Service intends that any final action resulting from this proposed rule will be based on the best available information. Comments and materials we receive, as well as some of the supporting documentation used in preparing this proposed rule, are available for public inspection at www.regulations.gov under the docket number FWS–HQ–ES–2013–0073. The Service will post all comments on www.regulations.gov. This generally means the agency will post any personal information provided through the process. The Service is not able to accept email or faxes. Comments must be received by midnight on March 27. The Federal Register publication of this notice will be available online Feb. 10 at www.fws.gov/policy/frsystem/default.cfm by clicking on the 2014 Proposed Rules under Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants. The Service expects to make final determination on the proposal by the end of 2014. 22 - Hunting & Fishing News HUNTING & CONSERVATION NEWS HUNTING & CONSERVATION NEWS Join us April 5th for the Bitterroot Chapter Banquet Pheasants Forever Praises 2014 Farm Bill, where fun and fund-raising combine Now Law, For Key Conservation Measures for a memorable event - all in a spirit of camaraderie shared by Pheasants Forever, February 7, 2014 – folks who love the outdoors. Today, President Obama signed the Agricultural Act of 2014, commonly known as the farm bill, into law. Pheasants Forever and its quail division, Quail Forever, praised the President for his action, as well as the 1st Interstate Event Center bipartisan House and Senate support leading to its signature. The farm bill addressed Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever’s top conservation Ravalli County Fairgrounds - Hamilton priorities: reauthorizing vital USDA conservation programs, re-linking Doors open at 4:30 pm conservation compliance to crop insurance and “sodsaver,” or native prairie, protection. “The farm bill remains the single biggest opportunity for wildlife habitat Celebrating One Million Dollars Raised. conservation, and this bill included key provisions that conservation and sportsmen’s groups have been fighting years to achieve,” says Music by Shane Clouse Dave Nomsen, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever’s Vice President of Governmental Affairs, “Unfortunately, in the time it took to pass this •Silent Auction •Raffle legislation, we’ve lost millions of acres of habitat nationwide. Now the •Drawings •Games challenge becomes taking all the conservation tools provided by the farm bill and implementing them across the country. Thankfully, policy Dinner Catered by Caffe Firenze in Florence makers heard our calls, and have provided us with much-needed MC’d by Scott & Paula from The Ranch Radio policies and programs.” The conservation compliance and sodsaver provisions encourage the Don’t wait - protection of the nation’s remaining grasslands and wetlands, while ADVANCE TICKETS ONLY: simultaneously preventing soil erosion and improving water quality. “These represent sound natural resources policy,” says Nomsen, Call Sue Miller at 406-777-0214 “And combined, they represent sound fiscal policy as they will save American taxpayers millions of dollars.” or e-mail [email protected] Wildlife habitat-friendly provisions in the farm bill include: -Reauthorization of the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), including a change to the program that will allow for the enrollment of up to 2 million grassland acres with no cropping history that have never been eligible for CRP enrollment historically. -Re-linkage of conservation compliance connected to crop insurance, which will deter wetland drainage. -Regional “Sodsaver” to protect our country’s last remaining native prairies where it is most threatened - South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Montana and Nebraska. -$40 million in funding for Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Programs (VPA-HIP). Commonly referred to as “Open Fields,” this funding improves sportsmen’s access while helping improve wildlife conservation efforts. -More than $1 billion allocated for a new Agricultural Conservation Easement Program, including provisions targeting wetlands and grasslands. Additionally, U.S. Department of Agriculture conservation programs are consolidated from 23 to 13, which will improve delivery of these programs to interested landowners. “Pheasants Forever thanks Agriculture Committee Chairs Stabenow and Lucas, Senator Cochran and Congressman Peterson, the four principal negotiators of the 2014 Farm Bill,” Nomsen added, “Rural America, landowners, hunters and the general public can all appreciate large elements of the conservation title, and these legislative efforts deserve recognition.” Pheasants Forever, including its quail conservation division, Quail Forever, is the nation’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to upland habitat conservation. Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever have more than 140,000 members and 745 local chapters across the United States and Canada. Chapters are empowered to determine how 100 percent of their locally raised conservation funds are spent, the only national conservation organization that operates through this truly grassroots structure. Pheasants Forever is dedicated to the conservation of pheasants, quail and other wildlife through habitat improvements, public awareness, education and land management policies and programs. March 2014 23 Gator RSX850i Trail ScentBlocker’s Guide to $ * 14,999 Killing Coyotes (continued from page 6) It is likely that a wandering coyote might cross the hunter’s entrance or exit trail and smell the human interference. It’s best to play it safe and remain scent free for the sake of future hunts. The Setup: There are two popular ways to legally kill coyotes; over bait or by calling. Many people prefer to coyote hunt in the mornings. Others prefer the dark cloak of night. One thing is for certain, be sure to have a setup that is downwind from where the coyotes are expected to be. For instance, if they are often seen entering a field on a certain trail, be sure to approach from the downwind side and stay well away from it. You may also use a popup blind or sit in the old hunting shack when coyote hunting, just make sure it has been up a while and the animals have become accustomed to its presence. If no blind is available, get tight to a big tree, nestle in comfortably and don’t move. Often, coyotes will approach silently and wait a while, cautiously observing everything they can before allowing their curiosity to take over. Many hunts are ruined before they start because a cautious coyote sees the hunter first. Like in deer hunting, human scent control is important. Coyotes are a pretty nervous animal and generally like to come into a call or kill from a long way downwind. Their noses are hard to beat so be sure to continue ANIMAL INSTINCT VS IRON WILL to follow scent free deer hunting guidelines when chasing the wily coyotes. Developed for hunting, fishing and back country trails At a minimum, always spray down boots and decoys and electronic calling systems. • Top Speed: 53 mph** • Horsepower - 62 (46.2 kw)*** Calling: Coyotes are very vocal animals and there are several calling • Full-locking, true 4WD system • 8.9 cu. ft. cargo box options to lure them in. Many hunters start small with a mouth distress call simulating a rabbit version of screaming bloody murder. Another Gator XUV825i Gator XUV825i S4 beginning call that is simple to use is a basic mouse squeaker. Field mice are a favorite morsel of a coyote’s diet and if close enough, they’ll respond to a mouse squeak. Others may start with locating, breeding or dominance coyote calls. Several of these DIY hunters also get frustrated rather quickly, realizing the limitations to their wind pipes and volume so they soon explore electronic calling options. Electronic calling can be as simple as a smartphone app pre-loaded with a dozen calls to a professional system capable of blasting out over 1000 different vocalizations. When using a remote controlled electronic calling system be sure to place it well up-wind so if the animal approaches the sound it will not wind the hunter. Many callers like to create a deadly combination with some sort of decoy. Decoys can range from a simple arrow shaft with a few turkey feathers attached for slight movement in the wind, to a shaking tail attached to the electronic caller for a very realistic presentation. JOHNDEERE.COM “Run-N-Gun” style coyote hunting is by far the most popular choice. Like turkey hunting, these aggressive predator hunters sit each setup for about an hour, then move on. This is probably the best way to start calling because the constant movement allows hunters to stay warm and WE SELL MANY DIFFERENT JOHN DEERE PRODUCTS. become less bored. Also, changing setups and driving to new farms help STOP IN AND SEE US TODAY. the hunter cover as much ground as possible. It’s a simple concept- if there’s an interested coyote around, he’ll show up within the hour and hopefully take his last steps. If not, go find one that is. Baiting: Similar to deer hunting, many predator hunters prefer to hunt over a bait site. Where legal, baiting is a very effective way to kill a coyote. Like any other animal, coyotes prefer different types of bait. Many hunters use old deer carcasses and road kills to lure in coyotes. Others Triple Equipment use butcher scraps and chicken parts. Some hardcore fur trappers use W raccoon and beaver meat as well. If baiting, commit to hunting the site MISSOULA KALISPELL hard, otherwise all that is happening is that the local coyotes will be getting a free meal. Like in deer hunting, be able to approach the stand (406) 549-4171 (406) 752-2828 and bait from downwind so as to not educate the animals to the fact Full Parts & Service Departments that they are being hunted. Hanging a trail camera near a bait site might *Manufacturer’s suggested price in USD. MSRP. 03/01/14 - 03/31/14. Taxes, freight, setup, delivery and help to pinpoint exactly when the animals are coming in to feed. Many optional attachments shown not included. Equipment, models, features, options, attachments and prices bait hunters prefer to hunt after dark when the coyotes are comfortable may vary by dealer. John Deere reserves the right to change specifications, model features, design, feeding in the open. and price of the products described here without notice. Before operating or riding, always refer to the safety and operating information on the vehicle, and in the Operator’s Manual. **Actual vehicle Closing Thoughts: Coyote hunting is a lot of fun. Even if an animal top speed may vary based on belt wear, tire selection, vehicle weight, fuel condition, terrain and other isn’t harvested, at least you’re in God’s great outdoors enjoying the environmental factors. ***The engine horsepower and torque information are provided by the engine manufacturer to be used for comparison purposes only. Actual operating horsepower and torque will creation. Another positive way to look at coyote hunting is the amount of be less. Refer to the engine manufacturer’s website for additional information. John Deere’s green and human pressure they feel. Different from deer, where hunting pressure yellow color scheme, the leaping deer symbol and JOHN DEERE are trademarks of Deere & Company. is a bad thing, it’s good when coyotes feel the human presence. Hopefully a few will get shot, and they won’t be such a problem... 24 - Hunting & Fishing News March 2014 25 Shed Hunting

Bob Humphrey Photo

By Bob Humphrey Yamaha Outdoors Tip For the serious deer hunter the season never ends. While we can’t hunt deer, we can hunt antlers; and there’s no better time to do it than right now. Besides, it’s a great excuse to get out, whether on foot or ATV, and spend some time in the deer woods. Think Recent - Begin searching in areas where deer were concentrated after the hunting season. In the north woods that might be deer wintering areas. In the south, west and midwest it could be around crop fields, food plots, sheltered Missoula•Bozeman•Helena•Butte•Hamilton SEE ONE OF THESE YAMAHA DEALERS TODAY. bottoms or south-facing slopes. or shop 24/7 at www.bobwards.com Refine - Within these areas, concentrate your efforts around Great Falls Hamilton Helena bedding areas, field edges or Steve’s Sports Center Al’s Cycle Montana Motorsports heavy trails, especially where deer have to cross fences, creeks or 4700 9th Ave. South 619 Highway 93N. & Marine other obstacles. Any place a deer 406-727-8607 406-363-3433 3654 Hwy. 12 E. has to jump and land increases 406-449-6595 the odds of antlers jarring loose. Think Big - Once you’ve covered Missoula Missoula Townsend the heavy trails shift to less used Five Valley Yamaha Maverick Motorsports Townsend Marine trails leading to thicker cover, where bigger, older deer may be 5900 Hwy. 93 S. 4950 North Reserve St. 7809 Hwy. 287 So. more inclined to go. 406-251-5900 406-549-4260 406-266-5700 Develop a Search Image. Just as an experienced hunter looks for part of a deer rather than the whole thing, the trained eye of a shed hunter searches for colors and shapes, like white against a dark forest floor, or the tip of a tine sticking out of the mud or snow. It becomes easier over time. Bring the Dog. Training dogs to hunt sheds is becoming more popular. Even if yours isn’t trained, man’s best friend seems *0%-10% down payment required. Applies to purchases of new 2010-2014 ATVs & Side x Sides, made on a Yamaha Installment Financing loan account from to have an innate knack for finding 12/27/13 to 6/30/14. Offer is subject to credit approval by GE Capital Retail Bank. Maximum contract length is 36 months. Minimum amount financed is bones, including shed antlers. $5,000. Fixed APR of 3.99%, 5.99%, 6.99% or 12.99% assigned based on credit approval criteria. Example: Monthly payments per $1,000 financed based on Don’t get discouraged. 36 month term are $29.52 at 3.99% rate and $33.69 at 12.99%. Standard down payment requirement is based on credit approval criteria. **Customer Cash Often the first shed is the hardest offer good on select 2010-2014 models between 12/27/13-6/30/14. Offer good in the U.S., excluding the state of Hawaii. ATV models shown are recommended to find. In time you’ll develop a for use only by riders 16 years and older. Yamaha recommends that all ATV riders take an approved training course. For safety and training information, see search image not only for antlers your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always avoid paved surfaces. Never ride on but the best places to find them. public roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Never carry passengers. Never engage in stunt riding. Riding and alcohol/ drugs And in the process, you’ll learn a don’t mix. Avoid excessive speed. And be particularly careful on difficult terrain. ©2013 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. • YamahaMotorsports.com 12/13 lot more about the ground you’ll hunt next fall.  26 - Hunting & Fishing News Viper HS-T (Hunting Shooting Tactical) Kaibab HD delivers shooting versatility for hunters, top of the long-range as well as tactical enthusiasts glassing game

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PLANNING A SUCCESSFUL ELK HUNT (continued from page 15) Preference Points Preference points are issued in several ways. You may specifically apply for preference points as your first hunt choice. You would then list your hunt codes for the GMUs you have scouted as second and third choices on your license application. You may also apply for a GMU that requires preference points, however, if you have not been awarded preference points, you may not be successful when the licenses are drawn. You will then be awarded a preference point and CPW may issue you a license for your second or third choice if there is still a quota available after all the first-choice applicants have been awarded licenses. You may also opt for a refund. Many of the premiere GMUs in Colorado require preference points, so the more points you collect the better your chances of obtaining a license in one of those premiere units. How to Read Preference Points The top 2 columns, 0-11+, are the number of preference points. (The columns wrap, which is confusing.) The bottom 2 columns are the numbers of hunters with those preference points that applied. So, in this example, 193 hunters applied with 0 preference points, 138 applied with 1 preference point, 3 hunters applied with 6 points (bottom row, far left column), 2 with 7 points, and no one applied with 8 or more points. To see how many preference points it took to actually get the license—look at numbers under “Quotas” in the previous table; 125 total licenses were issued. Then count backwards in the preference points table (bottom row, far right side first, last non-zero number listed) until you reach 125. You count starting with the number of hunters who applied with the most points (in this case, 2 hunters applied who had 7 preference points) to see how many points you needed to get the license that year. Thus, you would add 2 + 3 + 6 + 19 + 134 for a total of 164. So, hunters with 7,6,5,4, and some who had 3 preference points all drew a license. The hunters with 2, 1, and 0 points did not draw a license. These are only tallied for the 1st choice (this will always be the case since 2nd, 3rd, and 4th choices do not use points). Why is the number of tags issued, under “Quotas”, shown just in the 1st season on some? Looking at the 1999 Elk Recap, under EM04801R: Below “Quotas”, it has 150 listed, which is the total number of licenses (tags) that were available for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd seasons. (In other words, this is a quota that is shared among all three seasons.) In this case, they are only listed under the 1st season—they are not broken down by a certain number for each season. The number (150) is available to float into the other seasons (2nd and 3rd) as needed. Hunters can still determine the preference points it took to draw for each unit. Looking at Unit 48, total number of licenses issued equal 150.(continued on page 42)

March 2014 27 BLACK BEAR HUNTING IN MONTANA By H & F News Pro Staff

Montana big game hunters can get their season off to a strong start here in mid-April, as the State’s black bear hunting season begins to ramp up on April 15th. Early season bear hunts can be a challenge, mostly depending upon Mother Nature’s grasp on the weather. If calm, warmer conditions exist during and throughout March, and again in April, your chances of seeing a black bear during the early season will significantly increase. If not, and it’s still more like a prolonged cold snap, expect less action. Still though, the excitement exists of seeing, and then having an opportunity to harvest a beast that’s at the top of the food chain, when we are talking big game. Most Montana bear hunters are limited as far as tactics to kill a bear. It’s not an easy task. Spot and stalk is how it’s done here. As setting up baits to lure in an unsuspecting bear is not allowed in Montana. Still, it can be done, and here’s how: Spot and stalk Now spot and stalking a bear is much different than your typical whitetail deer hunt, as there is a bit more excitement and adrenaline involved when you know that the animal you are stalking could kill you. But then, that’s part of the challenge, right? To spot and stalk a bear you must be able to see them from a distance, which means you must be hunting fairly open terrain. Preferably, a mountainous terrain where you can get above a bear. Your chances of spotting a bear increase with the more area you can cover using the best optics you can afford. Once you spot a bruin, get as close as you can for a lethal shot. Game over - right? Well maybe, although that’s the way it seems to work on the TV hunting shows. Calling Another baitless bear hunting tactic that is gaining much popularity is calling a bear in with a predator call. What you are doing is bringing that animal to you. Yes, to stalk you. When a bear is hungry, and hears a call, he will come to it. Play the wind in your favor when you set-up. Remember, a bear has a better nose than most any other big game animal. If he smells human odor, most likely he will be gone. It’s wise to consider a good scent control. Food Hunt an area with abundant food sources. The later in the spring, the better the odds of more forage for the bear. These carnivores aren’t picky when it comes to food and will eat just about anything. Time Most successful bear hunts are attributed to time spent in the bear woods. If you can make more time to hunt, chances are you will get an opportunity. Every time that you go on a hunt, you learn more. You learn more about the area you are in, and how and what to do, and what not to do. Each and every hunt I have been on is different from the last one. Some filled with action, and some are just spent hiking, looking over a lot of terrain

28 - Hunting & Fishing News Bear Management Unit 440 MFWP ∫ ∫ General Season (consult MFWP Regulations) • Apr 15 - May 31 Either-sex Black Bear. • Sep 07 - Sep 14 Either-sex Black Bear. Archery Only Season. • Sep 15 - Dec 01 Either-sex Black Bear. You are invited to attend the Mule Deer Foundation’s DARK HORN CHAPTER 1st Annual Banquet - Missoula - Date: April 12 Location: University Center Ballroom Time: 5:00pm - Dinner: 6:30 Live auction to follow

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MFWP and soaking in the outdoors. So, after all that is read, researched, and planned out, to me, your best tactic is time dedicated to the hunt. So try to get out early this spring to fulfill all of your outdoor dreams.

-Top 20 Black Bears - Montana- Boone and Crockett scoring - MFWP SCORE LOCATION TAKEN BY 1. 21-08/16 Fergus Co. Pat Descheemaeker 2. 21-05/16 Broadwater Co. Randy Stone 3. 21-04/16 Carbon Co. Joseph Krenzer 4. 21-03/16 Madison Co. Jerry Morgan 5. 21-02/16 Gallatin Co. Steven Steele 6. 21-00/16 Lincoln Co. Ian Chase-Dunn 7. 21-00/16 Fergus Co. Ross Roe Jr. 8. 20-15/16 Bighorn Co. Sam Notafraid 9. 20-15/16 Gallatin Co. Denny Biggs 10. 20-15/16 Pondera Co. Emerson Calfrobe 11. 20 14/16 Flathead Co. Victor Workman 12. 20 14/16 Lincoln Co. Robert Livesay 13. 20 14/16 Sanders Co. Ed Josephson 14. 20 14/16 Gallatin Co. Tony Forman Gary Carter 15. 20 13/16 Park Co. Charles Burdette 16. 20 13/16 Beaverhead Co. Rick Holzheimer Missoula, Mt. 17. 20 11/16 Meagher Co. Steve Zehntner 1st animal with 18. 20 11/16 Madison Co. William Stewart a bow at 7 yards! 19. 20 11/16 Flathead Co. Jerry Stafford 20. 20 10/16 Wheatland Co. Chad Hoover 4-1/2 year old bore

March 2014 29 WHITETAIL SCOUTING WHILE SHED ANTLER HUNTING (continued from page 8) Finally, the actual process of looking for cast antlers can provide as much or more information than discovering the antler itself. This is true in all zones of the country and for all species, but it has the most ramifications for whitetail hunters. When you go on the hunt for antlers you place yourself in the heart of a whitetail’s home territory. You’ll be hiking and snooping throughout feeding SAVE THE DATE! areas, bedding cover and the trails in between. Although you’ll likely bump animals in the process, don’t worry about the abbreviated intrusion. Any 5th Annual Pig Roast & Fundraiser animals you spook in the process will have four or more months to forget about your face to face meeting before the opening of even the earliest April 26th, 2014 @ 2:00P.M. archery seasons. If you do worry about bumping animals, visit bedding cover late in the day as deer vacate it for feeding fields and vice versa. Missoula County Fairgrounds Nosing around in whitetail bedrooms opens my eyes to the day to day behavior of rutting whitetails. The high density of scrapes, rubs, beds Join us for some great food & fun! and trails stand out in the leafless landscape. Scrapes still have that smoking hot look and rub lines from the previous fall show distinct lines Raffles, Live & Silent Auctions, Door Prizes, of travel where bucks took out their aggression on young saplings. Kids Fishin’ Pond & more! While I’m scanning with my Nikons to possibly pick out the point of a fresh shed antler amongst a pile of cottonwood leaves I’m also looking Bring your unused 2013 BIG GAME TAGS for the for skinned up trees. Put these clues all together and you can see where bucks spent the majority of their time as opposed to other areas exhibiting TAG SOUP RAFFLE! little or no rutting sign. If you’d like to donate items for the live or silent auctions When I note areas overrun with buck sign I also look for OR funnels and pinch points for later ambush opportunities. Again, the leafless environment opens up your view to see coulees, if you’d like to be on the Banquet Planning Committee draws, ravines and creek bottoms in a new light. Slight depressions or help, and swales masked by brush or foliage stand out along with the trails deer use the most. A GPS comes in handy to mark these locations to contact Bill Mitchell @ 544-2325 or return later and put up a treestand, or ground blind. And since whitetails email @[email protected] oftentimes scrape at the same intersections, note these locations as well for a mock scrape construction site. SEE YOU THERE!! BE AN ANTLER REALIST Just because you discover a monster shed antler doesn’t mean that buck will end up in your sights. First, you need Need not be a member to help or attend. to be aware that some animals winter and shed their antlers miles from If you want to learn more visit where they set up residence during hunting season. This is especially true of Western game that migrates miles to reach more hospitable elevations www.mt-sfw.org to spend the winter. Open-country big game can also migrate short or long distances to take Our mission: refuge in river bottoms, or near large livestock operations where they take advantage of feed being dispersed to livestock. Certain crops can attract To Preserve, Protect And Enhance Montana’s deer in food-challenged environments and seasonal changes in the Hunting, Fishing And Trapping Rights native browse prompts big game to change a venue. This means that bucks and bulls on the move drop their antlers wherever they call home. While Protecting Montana’s Rural Heritage. It’s up to you to use scouting and common sense to retrace the steps of that animal if you hope to use the shed antler as a clue in your hunting plan. If you question whether the animal that previously held the shed antlers you found is nearby contact a local game warden or biologist. They can offer insight GLASGOW on big game migrations, deer patterns and even insight into herd health. Farm Equipment Sales, Inc. In closing, be ethical in your antler hunting pursuits. Deer and elk coming 54275 Hwy. 2 East out of winter and leading into spring are at their weakest. The rut combined (406) 228-2496 with unrelenting winter conditions has burned off any extra fat and fesmt.com stressed their bodies. Bumping them or pushing them away from nutritional food sources could cause increased stress and possibly even death. Always try and avoid as much contact with big game during this time of year as possible. Shed antler hunting continues to grow in popularity and offers a great cure for cabin fever. Enjoy it with your friends and especially your family. Mark Meyers And don’t forget to do some additional sleuthing while you’re in the woods. It could lead to increased success next season. MT-SFW is a 501c(3) organization To keep up with Mark Kayser and new hunting tips: www.markkayser.com 30 - Hunting & Fishing News EU6500is • 6500 Watts Max For Work, Play and Home • Super Quiet (60db) • Runs up to 14 hrs on EM5000sx 4.5 gallons of fuel • 5000 Watts Max • Runs up to 11.2 hrs on 6.2 gallons of fuel EB10000AH Power You • 10,000 Watt, 120/240 • Better fuel efficiency & Can Trust lowest noise rating DOUBLE YOUR POWER EU2000i & WITH PARALLEL CAPABILITY EU2000i Companion Break New Ground Without HHT25SLTA Trimmer HRR216VKA Lawn Mower Breaking a Sweat. 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March 2014 31 2014: The Year of the WESTERN MONTANA FUR CENTER Ballot Issue? As sportsmen and women are gearing up for the year ahead, Specializing in Heavy Pale Lynx Cats the fight for the future of hunting appears headed for the ballot box next fall as ballot issues are popping up from coast to coast. Montana’s Leading Tanned Fur Outlet While the November election might seem far off, hunters and Top 5 cats Utah, Oregon, Nevada Sales 2012 trappers across the country are purchased by us over $1300 & 1400 each hard at work preparing for the upcoming battles. In July, we reported on the ongoing fight Bought top cats over $1800 at Sale 2013 over Michigan’s wolf management program. Now, sportsmen are staring down the barrel of two We purchased top lot of Alaskan Sable May ballot initiatives that seek to bar 2008 Fur Harvesters $200.00 ea. - plus over the state from designating wolves 1500 Sable, 500 Canadian Alaskan Lynx, and as a game species...In Maine, sportsmen scored a clear victory 1000 Lynxcats at North American and Fur in the legislature this spring when Harvesters 2008 May Sales. we defeated a bill that would have FOR ALL banned bear hunting with dogs and bear trapping. Following that Always top prices - Montana Pale Coyotes decisive loss, the animal-rights OF YOUR community began gathering 125 West Commercial signatures to place a question on SHOOTING the Nov. 2014 ballot. This latest Anaconda, MT. 59711 effort would ban bear hunting with dogs, bear trapping and hunting NEEDS 406-563-7926 bears with bait. Flying under the banner of “Mainers for Fair Bear cell 406-260-2643 Hunting,” the anti’s reported raising $705,000 in their last campaign [email protected] finance report...“While the anti’s may try to hide behind a suggestive We buy large quantities of Canadian, American name, sportsmen nationwide won’t be fooled by who the real proponents Sable (Martin) Muskrats, Red Fox & Coyotes are of these efforts,” said Evan Heusinkveld, USSA vice president We Buy Large Quantities of Deer of government affairs. “National animal rights and other anti-hunting & Elk hides. Unlike our groups are leading these efforts – and they’re out to ban all hunting competitors, we buy 1/2’s and 1/4’s, and trapping.” In the west, trappers in Montana and Oregon are also #3 deer and fawns. Fair grade. facing potential fights of their own. In Montana, an anti-trapping group We can pick-up. named “Footloose Montana” is again circulating petitions to place NOW BUYING Initiative 167 on the ballot which would ban trapping on all public Furs, hides, elk teeth, claws, skulls. We have lands. While “Footloose Montana” failed to qualify a similar initiative the largest selection of tanned furs in the in 2010, they have renewed their U.S.A., fur coats, fur hats, fur gloves, efforts with an eye on next November’s election. Along the fur blankets, horns, traps & trapping supplies, same lines, an Oregon anti-trapping mounts & rugs. group was circulating petitions in an effort to ban trapping in the state. The We also own group “TrapFree Oregon”...announced they would be postponing their efforts BREWERY ANTIQUES and until 2016. Overall, 2014 is shaping SECOND HAND up to be a year dominated by political battles at the ballot box. Montana’s Largest Antique Shop It is vital that sportsmen in these Furniture - collectibles - states and others work together to Second Hand - Everything imaginable stop these attacks on our heritage.

32 - Hunting & Fishing News Whoever said hunting season ends in November was wrong... Stay sharp all year long.

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March 2014 33 RMEF Board Bob Ward & Sons Member Zumbo New Gear Review Honored with Ultra Protection Series Communicator From The North Face Unrivaled performance. The perfect balance of Award performance and protection Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation for running, hiking and training. Available in 8 styles. One of the 8 styles includes the Men’s Ultra Hike Mid GTX, which allows you to navigate slick, varied terrain during long journeys in the backcountry. The Ultra Hike Mid GTX is a waterproof Gore-Tex® mid-cut hiking shoe that remains supportive when carrying a heavy pack. Jim Zumbo is not one to get nervous. Not while putting the crosshairs Cradle™ Guide technology controls the impact on a bull elk. Not while stalking a deer. Not while hosting veterans and at foot strike and features a lightweight Pebax® wounded warriors during one of his many hunts. And not while standing heel cradle for exceptional energy return, so in front of cameras manned by members of the media. However, standing you can bound into your next step. A rigid, yet in front of the annual State of the Industry dinner at SHOT Show in flexible Snake Plate™ prevents stone bruising Las Vegas before thousands of members of the outdoor industry, underfoot. See this and the other Ultra Protection it was a completely different story. series at select Bob Ward & Sons stores. Zumbo, a board member and long-time member of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, acknowledged his nerves while accepting the prestigious Men’s Leonidas Jacket Grits Gresham Shooting Sports Communicator Award presented by the National Shooting Sports Foundation and Professional Outdoor Media From The North Face Association. The honor recognizes extraordinary achievements in Persevere through wet conditions in remote communications and in support of our hunting heritage and firearm locations with the help of this alpine workhorse, freedoms. a very versatile hard-shell jacket. Four-way stretch HyVent® 2L provides durable, “Never in my wildest dreams would I have ever imagined that I’d be the multi-layer waterproofing that remains recipient of the Grits Gresham Award,” Zumbo said. “I was shocked and breathable and comfortable during stages totally overwhelmed when I learned the news. Part of my exhilaration of intense climbing. Constructed with comes not only from the fact that this is my beloved industry supporting leak-proof fully taped seams to keep moisture me, but because Grits Gresham was my hero. I loved being around him, from seeping in during prolonged exposure listening to his tales and enjoying his modesty and down-home southern to wet conditions. Fully adjustable, helmet personality. My profound thanks to everyone who made this possible. compatible hood has a laminated brim for Now I need to pinch myself to see if I’m dreaming.” additional coverage. Cuffs adjust with non-abrasive molded tabs. Zumbo is perhaps the most recognizable hunter in North America. shown in Estate Blue A 40-year veteran outdoor writer with more than 2,000 articles and 3,000 photos published, he dedicated his life to supporting and defending hunting, and describing ways for people to become better hunters in his Truck Bed Storage books, lectures, magazine articles, and television show Jim Zumbo Outdoors on Outdoor Channel. He travels 250 days a year with rifle, shotgun, and fishing rod, collecting We’ve found our content, photos and great stories. Zumbo also is deeply involved in Decked Pickup working with wounded veterans, getting them outdoors and recharging Truck Bed Storage their lives. Their experiences are highlighted on Outdoor Channel with the system to be so Jim Zumbo Outdoors: Wounded Warriors series. Much of his career was useful, we wanted spent as a contributor and editor for Outdoor Life magazine. to share a photo of how well it To honor his friend Grits Gresham and his famous mantra of “May there stores our gear! be a bass under all your lily pads,” Zumbo closed his acceptance comments with a slight variation: “May there always be a buck under Note the pull-out your tree stand.” drawers that can hold up to 200 lbs. Grits Gresham was an internationally-known sportsman, author, photographer and television personality who championed the cause of each! conservation. He hosted ABC’s The American Sportsman for 13 years. DECKED is a system which raises the deck, allowing you to store Millions got a glimpse of his pleasant personality and witty ways during a your tools, hardware and other items securely, out of the way, and series of beer commercials in the 1970s. out of the weather while having full use of the rest of your truck bed. See these and other fine products at Bob Ward & Sons or shop 24/7 at www.bobwards.com 34 - Hunting & Fishing News Best Value In Montana Lodging.

Interview with Randy Birdsong By Gary Elliott Reprinted with permission from Bowhunting.net For more please go to: www.bowhunting.net

Lodge Like Back in August I had the great pleasure to interview Randy Birdsong, Atmosphere With lead man for the show HeadHunters TV seen weekly on the Outdoor Resort Amenities Channel. I find the show different than the other hunting shows, not only •Spacious & Comfortable Rooms • Free Hot Breakfast showing me the hunts but what it takes to make a show like this and •Large Indoor Pools & Jacuzzis - All Hotels • Business Meeting Facilities bring it to the air. Whether it’s speaking to a sponsor, seeking advertisement •High Speed Internet Access • Exercise & Game Rooms • iPod Docking Stations In All Rooms or air time it is shown. The show’s popularity seems to have taken off • Refrigerators, Microwaves, Coffee Makers In Every Room • 42” or 50” Flat Screen TV In Every Room quite well and this was reflected at the 2013 ATA Show which displayed huge pictures of each of them. A great accomplishment for only two BILLINGS - 800-655-1170 • BOZEMAN - 866-782-2717 seasons. MISSOULA - 888-989-5569 www.cmoninn.com Randy was introduced to hunting by his father at an early age, it must have been awfully early in his childhood because he said his dad would carry him out water fowl hunting in a five gallon bucket. Then at the age of 16, Randy said he had a growing obsession with whitetails and living so close to the Illinois border found himself heading there and shooting some nice size deer. In the following years, Randy wanted to continue living the hunting/outdoor life and be like the hunting heroes on TV he had watched growing up. Several years later he got his first start both as a videographer and hunter with Whitetail Freaks when they came on the scene with their extreme videos. Making friends along the way Randy wanted to do more in the industry but first had to pay his dues. In 2011 Randy got his opportunity to start HeadHunters TV. The show also stars Nate Hosie, who plays guitar and sings, Troy Ruiz, who was a 911 dispatcher but now has a full time job working in the hunting industry. The video guys Steve Phillips and Jon Skidmore also receive plenty of air time and Randy says their talents are unmatched. It is not all glamour for the boys, they are on the road 150 days a year and Nate Hosie and Randy promoting sponsor Wildlife Innovations. when they aren’t on the road hunting they are on the road promoting the Competition is high right now and people are standing in line to take show another 100 days of the year. your spot. If he had to say the biggest thing is keeping everyone happy If that isn’t enough, when they aren’t overall. You have to believe in what you do and promote it. doing one of the above they are Randy would agree the overall archery community may seem big but traveling and meeting with sponsors. is a very small industry. Randy also spoke highly of the companies As Randy explained, in order to keep the show going, you have to do and people that are part of this community. It seems like a big monster what it takes. from the outside and once you’re in, it really is a very small community, Randy says seeing their cutouts at the 2013 ATA Show hanging in the Randy explained. vestibule was very humbling to him and the others. Knowing they have I asked Randy where the future of HeadHunters TV may lead them worked hard and dreamed of being at the top one day. I asked Randy and he felt they need to just continue to roll with the punches and keep what keeps him focused and motivated. “Keeping it real, treating all producing shows that people like and believe in. Maybe highlighting people equal and never lose touch with your roots.” Not an easy task to more of Nate’s music talents. The bar is always being set higher and he do when you are on the road as much as people in this industry are. spends time lying awake at night thinking what they can do better and do differently. I asked Randy about the hunting pressure to get that big deer. In closing Randy wanted to say thanks to everyone that support the Randy explained to me that this is a big misconception. It isn’t getting show and keep in tune watching the show and participate on social the biggest deer that is most important but, delivering from all ends. media with them. March 2014 35 WE BUILD “MAN CAVES” TIPS FOR HUNTING GOBBLERS IN THE SPRING MFWP We also sell building kits Consistently, successful turkey hunting for toms requires a high degree of skill. Wild turkeys are extremely wary and possess keen color vision and good hearing ability...Preseason scouting for sign left by turkeys is the best way to find a good hunting area. Signs to look for are roost trees, droppings, feathers, scratch and dusting areas. Also, listen for gobbling. Make a note of feeding areas. In the timbered areas, preferred roost trees are tall, If you have something that needs put away over-mature and dead ponderosa pines that are sheltered from high winds. CALL US RIGHT AWAY! A lot of the turkey range east of the Continental Divide is on private property. You must have permission to hunt turkeys on private property. Free Estimates Climbing a high butte during late afternoon and scanning the open park 1-855-746-BARN Insured areas with a spotting scope is a good way to spot turkeys. If any toms are H&H CUSTOM BUILDINGS East Helena, MT. in the vicinity, chances are good they will be out in the open going through LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED their courtship display. Once you spot a tom, mark his location and arrive www.handhcustombuildings.com there early the next morning before he leaves the roost tree. Some hunters use an owl hooter during the early morning to get roosted birds to call back. Hooters are commercial mouth-blown devices that imitate a large owl’s hoot. Once a gobbler is located, the hunter can move in quietly, TIZER MEATS then hide and use his turkey call. Mobile & Custom If you don’t hear a bird gobble of its own volition, move through the woods Slaughtering FILL YOUR FREEZER and make several hen yelps every 300 to 400 yards. Such calling should with Beef & Pork Whole, 1/2 or 1/4 be done only from a location where you can hide quickly and also have a good view of the surroundings. BEEF PORK The Burger - Steak Ham- Bacon - Chops MOST •Be in the woods by the crack of dawn because this is when the Roast - Ribs Roast- Ribs Economical breeding-age toms begin sounding off with lusty gobbles audible half a mile Stew Meat Bulk Breakfast Sausage Way to away on a still morning. Breeding-age toms do most of their gobbling during Whole or 1/2 cut to your specs BUY MEAT the first two hours of daylight, but during the height of the mating season, an occasional gobble may be heard at any time of the day. 3558 Tizer Rd, Helena •If you hear more than one tom gobbling, move in on the closest tom as CALL FOR PRICES across from Warren School & 4-H Community Center fast as possible. Stalking a more distant tom may result in a busted stalk. Mon-Fri 9am-5:30pm www.tizermeats.com •When calling to a tom on the roost early in the morning, a couple of soft, sleepy clucks works better than the hen yelp. A tom is reluctant 406-442-3096 to respond to a love yelp so early in the morning. •Whether you wear camouflage or not, your clothing should blend with the foliage around you. Although some hunters swear by facial camouflage and clothing, other good hunters are inclined to believe one’s movements spook turkeys. •Where should you take a stand? After a gobbler sounds, try to move within 200 yards of his position and then choose a stand in a fairly open area. As a general rule, turkeys avoid thickets that could conceal an enemy. A turkey likes a certain amount of ground cover within the timber to make it feel secure. However, the ground cover must be open enough to instantly afford the turkey good vision, allow it to walk without touching or coming into bodily contact with thick ground growth and assure it quick wing action and passage if need be. Turkeys are like any other animals-their behavior is mostly directed toward survival. Once you are on a stand, sit still and be patient. Smoking, coughing and other unnecessary movements simply do not fit into the strategic plan for hunting turkeys. •Try to get uphill and on the same ridge as a gobbler. It’s the easiest place to call from. Turkeys are a lot easier to call uphill than downhill. •When selecting a calling site, look for a tree with a good thick base. Sit in front of it, and use it as a backrest. •Weather conditions play a big part in the success of the spring gobbler hunt. Over A day that starts with a clear, cool morning and no wind is a good choice for hunting turkeys. Eastern Montana unfortunately has its share of inclement 100+ chainsaws weather during the spring turkey season. Cold weather-especially when in stock! coupled with a foot of snow-usually dampens the amorous attitudes of Chainsaws gobblers, making calling almost useless. If such weather conditions occur, stay home, practice your calls, read up on the life history of the wild turkey and hope for a better day. •Rifles are not a legal weapon for the spring season, most turkey hunters prefer using a 12-gauge shotgun with a full choke and using 0.2 or No. 4 shot. Turkeys are big, tough birds, and their vital organs are tucked away beneath heavy, metallic-colored feathers. Breeding-age toms also have what is called a breast sponge, which acts like a flak jacket. It’s a large mass of fatty tissue that helps them remain in prime physical condition during the breeding season. Wild turkeys also have blinding speed afoot, Triple W Equipment and even a broken wing seldom results in a turkey in the oven. Because a turkey’s body is nothing less than a miniature armored-tank, Missoula 406-549-4171 • Kalispell 406-752-2828 preferred areas to shoot at are head and neck. 36 - Hunting & Fishing News Wholesale Prices to the Public ‘14 Raptor 332TS Our Price Toy hauler Our $ Price Save $5,878.00 $ 28,716 20,850 Save 2014 Puma 281RBKS $9,258 Bunks! Triple Slide 2014 Aspen Trail 2390RKS 2014 Nash 23-D Save Ultimate Luxury! Rear Kitchen Rear Bath $24,284 Our Price: $65,720 Our Save Price $ Remaining 14,359 $22,956 2013 models 2014 Avalanche We save you $4,124 Priced to move! 360RB Bunks! Our Price: $47,999 HELENA, MT. 406-442-8542 Alpine, Arctic Fox, Aspen Trail, Avalanche, Canyon Cat, Carbon, Denali 1-800-246-8542 Fox Mountain, Laredo, Nash, Puma, Raptor, Snow River, Wolf Creek www.ddrvcenter.com Plan Your Year Outdoors Now By Steve Hickoff Yamaha Outdoors Tip Use your four-wheeled investment as much as possible. Doing this often requires some advanced planning. ...Have you mapped out your riding, hunting, fishing, camping and other outdoor recreation time? Here’s why you might: BOOK EARLY Truth is outfitters have likely scheduled their season around hunting, fishing and camping clients by now. Still it’s not too late. Contact them and indicate you’d like to get on the cancellation list. If a client can’t make it, they can call you, and you’re in – assuming you’re flexible. DO IT YOURSELF There’s no need to rely on somebody else to find your spring turkeys and warm-weather fishing opportunities: do it yourself. The old DIY method is tried and true. Contact fish and game agencies where you want to spend outdoors time. Ask officials about ATV and Side-by-Side off-trail regulations or simply resource these online. Inquire about public-land access you might not know about. Plan your hunting, fishing, riding and camping. Do it now; not later. NEGOTIATE WITH FAMILY Balance is the key here. If your significant other doesn’t enjoy the outdoors as much as you do, time – yours, theirs – should be taken seriously as you plot the year. Sure, it’s cool to be spontaneous and all that; but planning the year (pencil dates in if you have to) can assure everyone stays happy and manages to do what they want in a given calendar year. Negotiate. Maybe even encourage family members who don’t ride, camp, hunt or fish to do it with you. CALENDAR DAYS Grab one of those discounted calendars at the local bookstore (yep, some still exist in this online world) and dedicate it to your year outdoors. Finding the time now and planning the months ahead will keep you from scrambling later this spring, summer and fall – and wishing you had looked ahead... Have you planned your year outdoors? Let us know on the Yamaha Outdoors Facebook page.

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Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show™ (SHOT Show®) Attendance Soars to New Record The National Shooting Sports Foundation Attracting industry professionals from the United States and more than 100 other countries, the Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show™ (SHOT Show®) shattered attendance records..., giving industry professionals good reason to believe that 2014 will be another strong year for sales of firearms, ammunition, outdoor gear and law enforcement equipment. The 36th SHOT Show ran Jan. 14 to 17 at the Sands Expo & Convention Center. Attendance figures eclipsed last year’s total by the second day of the show and finished at more than 67,000, an increase of 5,000.... NSSF®, the trade association for the firearms, ammunition, hunting and shooting sports industry, owns and manages the SHOT Show. The $6 billion industry has enjoyed robust sales the last several years, fueled in part by newcomers to the shooting sports who, according to an NSSF First-time Gun Buyers Report, are younger, more female and more urban based. Newcomers have identified target shooting and personal and home protection as the top reasons for purchasing their first firearm. During the show, NSSF issued a first-of-its-kind report that confirmed the importance of the shooting sports to the U.S. economy. “Target Shooting in America: Millions of Shooters, Billions of Dollars” revealed that the money target shooters spent in 2011 resulted in $23 billion being added to the nation’s economy and supported more than 185,000 jobs nationally. Combined data from Target Shooting in America and Hunting in America, a report released last year, shows that spending by target shooters and hunters had a total impact of more than $110 billion on the nation’s economy in 2011, supporting more than 866,000 jobs. “Communities and businesses of all sizes benefit from these activities,” said NSSF President and CEO Steve Sanetti. “Our industry is proud to be an economic driver that has helped workers keep their jobs and support their families even during the most difficult economic times.”... Manufacturers of firearms, ammunition, optics, cutlery, apparel, accessories and law enforcement equipment introduced new products and services that retailers will offer consumers during the course of the year. The past year was a challenging one for the industry, which battled state and federal legislative efforts to restrict ownership of certain types of firearms. In addressing 2,000 industry leaders at the State of the Industry Dinner, Sanetti declared, “The State of our industry is renewed. More persons are entering the recreational shooting sports than ever before. More hunters, more target shooters, more women, more diverse groups, more licensed gun owners and, as you all know, more firearms sales...” The SHOT Show is not just about selling and buying products. The show provides educational opportunities for firearms retailers at SHOT Show University and other seminars, and for law enforcement professionals at the Law Enforcement Education Program. The SHOT Show, which pumps more than $73 million into the Las Vegas economy, is committed to the Sands Expo & Convention Center through 2017. Next year’s SHOT Show is scheduled for Jan. 20-23, 2015.

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AXIS II XP Youth, Muddy Girl from Savage Arms We do professional AUTO DETAILING & WINDOW TINTING Leer Truck Caps and Tonneaus • Scorpion Spray On Bedliners 3M Window Tint and Clear Hood Protection (Helena’s Only 3M Dealer) Crystal Fusion (Glass Protection) • Paint Chip Repair MSRP $525.00 Car Stereo/Electronic Department • Truck and Car Accessories Full Service Detail Shop • Custom Graphics • Full Service Sign Shop Series: AXIS AccuTrigger: Yes We specialize in AccuStock: No Magazine: Detachable box custom illustrated, Stock material: Synthetic one-of-a-kind graphics. Barrel material: Carbon Steel Stock finish: Matte Owner, Todd Sullivan has been customizing vehicles for over Barrel finish: Matte 20 years and has received national awards for his graphics. Stock color: Camo Barrel color: Black Sights: Weaver Kaspa 3-9x40 scope, mounted and bore-sighted 3242 Centennial St. Helena (406) 457-0700 Features: Adjustable AccuTrigger www.autoconceptshelena.com .243 Win March 2014 39 REGIONAL NEWS Surprise Catch Department Relocates By Two Trappers Pronghorn To Southern NM; Helps IDFG Trades 43 For Gould’s Turkey Research Program Two trapping partners targeting bobcats in New Mexico has larger pronghorn herds in the West Cabinet Mountains of northern southern New Mexico and will soon have Idaho were surprised when they discovered, not a bobcat, but a lynx larger flocks of Gould’s turkeys in the in one of their traps. They called Idaho Fish and Game to report the Peloncillo and Animas-San Luis Mountains non-target capture. thanks to the successes of a recent pronghorn It just so happens that Idaho Fish and Game had recently started its © Sonya Lunsford | Dreamstime.com trap operation near Cimarron, NM. own effort to capture and collar lynx and wolverine in the Panhandle New Mexico Department of Game and Fish biologists, conservation as part of the Multi-species Baseline Initiative (MBI). MBI is a officers and staff captured over 200 pronghorn from irrigated croplands collaborative effort of over 15 organizations collecting information on on a ranch in northern New Mexico. The pronghorn received blood 20 wildlife species which have been identified as rare or potentially in tests, vaccinations and were fitted with radio collars before being need of additional conservation efforts in Idaho and Washington. relocated on Bureau of Land Management sites outside of Fort Stanton, When the call came in, Fish and Game already had capture kits ready, near Capitan and northwest of Roswell. In exchange for a flock of 60 complete with satellite tracking collars purchased by the Idaho Gould’s turkeys, forty-three pronghorn were relocated to Arizona. Panhandle National Forest. “New Mexicans benefit on multiple fronts from the outcome of this trap,” said Interim Director R.J. Kirkpatrick. “Southern New Mexico Idaho Fish and Game immediately sent a biologist to work with the pronghorn herds increase in size, the trade with Arizona provides trappers to safely weigh, take blood and hair samples for DNA analysis, critical new birds to augment our turkey populations and New Mexicans and release the 17-pound adult female lynx, unharmed by the trap and can enjoy opportunities to see more wildlife in their natural habitat.” sporting a new tracking collar. The Department began trapping and transplanting pronghorns to new The satellite tracking collar will allow biologists to determine the animal’s ranges in New Mexico in the 1930s and continues the practice today. home range, assess reproductive status, and provide land managers The statewide population now has grown to approximately 30,000 with important information about how lynx use the local landscape. pronghorn. By identifying a non-target animal and promptly notifying Fish and Game, these two trappers helped further the cause of wildlife conservation... General Turkey Lack Of Snow Hampers IDFG’s Big Permits You can buy a permit online, Photo: Lynn Chamberlain from more than 300 hunting license agents Game Aerial Surveys across Utah and at Division of Wildlife Resources offices. So far this year dry conditions There’s no limit to the number of permits that can be sold, so you’ll and the lack of snow have led have no problem getting one. Idaho Department of Fish and The general statewide hunt starts April 28, 2014. Game to change its aerial survey plans because big game Jason Robinson, upland game coordinator for the DWR, says in addition are spread widely rather than to better road conditions and better access, the general hunt in May confined to typical winter range. provides you with advantages you won’t find during the limited entry hunt in April. Those advantages are more time and more areas to hunt. Aerial surveys are conducted Robinson says it’s very important to hunt turkeys when the birds are © Gatito33 | Dreamstime.com mostly during winter months gobbling. “That’s when the male turkeys, called toms, will be most when the animals are congregated on lower elevation winter ranges. receptive to your call,” he says. The winter months usually brings three elements needed to conduct Unfortunately, weather in the spring can often put a damper on turkey accurate surveys: clear weather for good visibility; animals are activity. “Wet and cold weather can decrease the period of time when confined to a smaller geographic area; and snow covering to aid in turkeys are gobbling,” Robinson says. “The limited entry hunt runs for locating and identifying species. A helicopter flying low and slow is only two weeks. The general hunt, on the other hand, runs for four often the most efficient tool for gathering big game herd information. weeks. Hunting during the general hunt doubles the amount of time you’ll have to be in the field at the right time — when the turkeys are Fish and Game has conducted more ground surveys for mule deer gobbling.” than is typical because of the lack of snow. Ground counts, along with other information typically used such as harvest data, habitat Robinson says two peak gobbling periods happen in the spring. The conditions, and winter survival estimates will be part of the decision first usually happens in early April, when tom turkeys call aggressively making process used by the Fish and Game to propose big game at the start of the breeding season. The second peak happens during hunting seasons for this coming fall. the general hunt in May. That’s when toms are actively seeking hens that haven’t bred yet or that need to breed again because their nests Fish and Game will continue to monitor weather conditions and have failed... determine what other big game aerial surveys, such as elk and After a tough winter and spring a couple of years ago, Robinson says mountain goat surveys, will be changed this winter. turkey numbers appear to be on the rise...

40 - Hunting & Fishing News REGIONAL NEWS Stihl waiting??? Get yours today. STIHL® MS251 CHAINSAW Grizzly Bear Shooting Results $329.95 w/18” B&C We packed it with everything in Conviction you need, even a lower price. After a lengthy investigation and a two day jury trial, the Wyoming All products backed by your full service dealer Toro Snow Blowers in stock! Game and Fish Department reports the successful conviction of an Etna man for the illegal shooting of a grizzly bear near Moran in the 442-1788 fall of 2012. Joe B. Conger shot and killed the grizzly bear on Sept. 30, 2012, while hunting on Mount Randolph north of Moran. 1650 ASPEN ST., HELENA [email protected] While registering the bear with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Sales & Service it was determined that Conger had in fact killed a grizzly bear. After an interview by Afton game warden Todd Graham, the hide and skull were seized and the case was carried out in conjunction with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, as grizzly bears are a federally protected animal. Upon concluding the investigation, it was decided the case would be LINCOLN prosecuted by the state and charges were filed through the Teton County PART PARADISE, PART WILDERNESS Attorney’s Office, where Conger was charged with taking a grizzly bear without a license. Nestled in 2 acres of ponderosa pines Still not convinced the bear he had killed was a grizzly, Conger pled All rooms have cable TV, microwave, not guilty to the charges and a jury trial was requested. A hide and hair refrigerators, coffee pot • sample from the bear was submitted to the Wyoming Game and Fish Kitchenettes • Laundry room Department’s Wildlife Forensic Laboratory in Laramie for DNA analysis. Sauna • Free WiFi The results confirmed that it was indeed the hide and hair of a grizzly Reasonable rates bear. A two-day trial ensued that called several Game and Fish The heart of hunting, fishing & snowmobiling employees to the stand. However, after just a 30 minute deliberation LEEPER’S the jury handed down a guilty verdict. PONDEROSA 110 1st Avenue, Lincoln, MT. Teton County Circuit Court judge, James L. Radda, sentenced Conger to a (406) 362-4333 fine of $2,500 plus $40 court costs and one year unsupervised probation. MOTEL Pets welcome In addition, Conger’s hunting and fishing privileges were suspended for one year in Wyoming and 38 additional states that are members of the Wildlife Violator Compact. “It is not often that a wildlife case goes to a jury trial, but when it does, AMERICANA FISHERMAN it becomes a much more in-depth process for all who are involved,” With all of us at Ruana Knives having grown up with fishing rods said Graham. “The successful prosecution of this case was the result of in our hands since we could walk, we have always had a passion great cooperation and hard work by a number of very dedicated people. for fishing. That fact, combined with Montana’s exceptional We especially extend our gratitude to the Teton County prosecutor’s angling opportunities (some almost literally within a office and Judge Radda, for their commitment to enforcing our wildlife laws.” stone’s throw from our shop) led to the development of the Ruana Americana Fisherman. Based on our traditional Steelhead model and originally created Non-Resident Disabled Veterans •Overall for fishing, we have found this blade works well length of Can Now Apply For Low-Cost on anything from a 6” Brook Trout to a 7 ¼” with 6 point bull elk or any outdoor endeavor 3” blade Fishing, Hunting Licenses •Traction coating where a good cutting tool is needed. protects 1095 high carbon steel Starting Feb. 1, disabled veterans who are not state residents can •Ruana logo apply for reduced fees on their next Washington state hunting or exclusive to the combination fishing license... Americana Series •Lightweight, weighing “The law was designed to make it more affordable for all United States 3 ounces with veterans with disabilities to hunt and fish in our state,” Hawley said. seven foot paracord handle for emergency situations For example, those who qualify can purchase a combination fishing •Tight Kydex® sheath license (saltwater, freshwater, and shellfish) at the residents’ rate of comes with a variety of carrying options $54.25, compared to $123.55 for the standard, non-resident license. •Engraving options make great gifts A deer-hunting license would cost $66.90, rather than the non-resident •Dealer inquiries welcome for Americana Knives price of $531.10. •Purchase of knife supports Project Healing Waters To qualify for the reduced rates, non-resident veterans must: Be honorably discharged from military service, and Have a service-related disability rating of 30 percent or more, verified by a letter from the Veterans Affairs Administration (VA); or be 65 years of age or older with a service-related disability verified by a VA letter. Submit an application requesting reduced fees. Applications and additional information about the Veterans Reduced Fee program are available at http://wdfw.wa.gov/accessibility/requirements_veterans.html... [email protected] | ruanaknives.com March 2014 41 If you look at statistics several years back...you can get an idea of the overall success in a certain GMU. These success ratios may vary considerably in the same GMU over several years. These statistics should point out to you five to ten GMUs as possible hunting sites. Don’t pin your success just on statistics and success ratios. These statistics should only be an indicator of areas you would like to explore further. Exploring those GMUs you have identified is probably the single most important item in a successful hunt! Natural Diversity Information Source (NDIS) Even if you are hundreds or thousands of miles away from your selected GMU, there are tools you can use to investigate it. The first is the Natural Diversity Information Source. The CPW has details of herd movement throughout Colorado and you can view these herd movements on customizable, interactive maps generated by the Colorado Hunting Atlas. (See the Colorado Hunting Atlas tutorials for help.) http://ndis.nrel.colostate.edu/huntingatlas/ The Colorado Hunting Atlas (an improved version of the popular MapIt! interactive mapping tool) allows users to view summer and winter ranges, migration patterns, and concentration areas, all by specific big game PLANNING A SUCCESSFUL species. Current big game species available include elk, mule deer, pronghorn and white-tailed deer. The species details are placed directly on Bing™ street maps, USGS topographic maps or high resolution color ELK HUNT (continued from page 27) aerial photography. So, look at the preference points and count backwards until you reach 150. Hunter Reference details can also be added that allow hunters to view 1 person with 5 points drew (1st season), 2 people drew with 4 points places of interest, boundaries, campgrounds, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (3rd season), 10 people drew with 3 points (6 - 1st, 2 - 2nd, 2 - 3rd season), license agents and more. 53 people drew with 2 points (34 - 1st season, 12 - 2nd, 7 - 3rd). In the These general observations should give you some ideas about the 1 preference point category (goes over 150 total) 84 people drew out of locations of elk during hunting seasons. Pay particular attention to the 115 who tried (83 – 1st, 50 – 2nd, 22 – 3rd), but it was a random draw migration corridors. These are the areas of opportunity and should help throughout all the seasons—some drew, some didn’t. People with 0 points you further refine your plan and eliminate some of the units you previously had no chance at all, and none drew. In this case, no one applied with identified. I say this because from the opening archery season, when elk 6 or more preference points. If they had, there would be 2 rows of numbers herds are rutting, until the close of the last hunting season, the elk herds under that hunt code. experience a great deal of movement in anticipation of winter weather in This information helps determine how many hunters you might expect in Colorado. They are also influenced by the pressure of predators (as in a particular GMU during a particular season and how many preference hunters). Ask yourself, “Are my selected GMUs close to winter grounds points are necessary to be successful in the draw in future years. or to migration routes?” if they are, you are headed in the right direction. Each time a hunter enters the draw and is unsuccessful in drawing their If they are not, you may want to rethink the criteria you used to determine first choice, CPW issues them a preference point. You may also submit your GMUs in the first place. for preference points as your first choice. Topography Harvest Survey Statistics Once you have identified three or four viable hunting areas, you need to Next, we should look at the harvest survey statistics. While I believe the home-in on the terrain. Get topographical maps of the areas you have number of hunters you are apt to encounter in a given GMU is important, selected. There are many sources of topo maps, however the USGS what you are really after is a successful hunt. The harvest survey statistics maps provided by government surveys seem to be the basis for all other inform you of the success ratio for each manner of take, each season, in maps. Where to obtain maps: each GMU. The harvest statistics are much easier to read and much more U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) maps provide altitudes of prominent self explanatory. landmarks and the saddles between these landmarks that are possible Be aware of a couple of things here as you look through these statistics. migrations corridors. First, just because you determine the percentage of successful hunters Bureau of Land Management provides BLM maps. in a given unit during a given time,...it does not mean that you will be Mapcard is a private company that charges for their maps. They are successful. Second, there are many factors that contribute to success based upon the aforementioned USGS topo maps but are customizable. including weather, animal migration, and hunting pressure. National Geographic Maps are developed by a very reputable source. I have purchased many of their maps to use in conjunction with my hunts. 42 - Hunting & Fishing News Wherever you choose to obtain your maps, there are some important items you need to be able to obtain from them. First, they should identify topography of the land, with elevations at prominent land marks with EXPERIENCE THE SUMMIT contour lines that indicate the steepness of terrain. If you select the best GMU in Colorado, but it is inaccessible, all your research is in vain. Topographical “Surgery” Don’t wait! Topographical maps help you understand the terrain you will be hunting. Offer ends It is a good idea to know the terrain well before you hunt. The areas you March 31, 2014 should attempt to identify are the “saddles”. Saddles are lower areas between two higher areas that are a passage from one drainage to another. Mark these with a pencil. These are likely routes animals take during their migration. Elk generally are creatures of habit, unless they are scared, so they use the same routes time and time again. These routes are what we call game trails and the saddles are where they pass in lower routes between two prominent land masses. The saddles usually provide elk some protection in their passage and are a wonderful place to set up an observation and ambush point. Other items you might look for on the maps are water sources and vegetation. Elk eat a great deal of forbs during and immediately following the rut and during hunting season... You absolutely should take these topo maps with you in the field, every time you venture out. They are an invaluable source of information for survival should you become disoriented and lost. I always make notes about the areas I am hunting directly on the maps. I note locations of scat, tree rubs, game trails, and any other information, including harvest locations, sex, and dates. I also make notes about what rifle I used and at what range and the time I harvested the animal. 3 Year Bumper-to-Bumper Google Earth I would now suggest you download Google Earth (or another application like it) on your computer; it’s a tremendous resource Warranty Coverage for obtaining terrain information. Use the topographical maps you have (12 Months BRP Limited Warranty purchased and marked up to actually view the areas through Google + Additional 24 Months BRP Limited Warranty)§ Earth that you have identified as possible hunting locations. You can use latitude and longitude or UTM coordinates to zoom in on these areas. + Google Earth will help you confirm that what you read on the maps is in  fact what you thought you were seeing! $200 Rebate Physical Conditioning In Colorado you will be hunting at high or altitude, generally above 7,000 feet. Those of you who do not regularly  exercise at those altitudes will find that every movement requires serious $500 Rebate extra effort. Consider doing some physical conditioning beforehand. One of the reasons I mentioned that planning a year in advance is a good + idea, is that your physical conditioning should start early and continue ‡ until you arrive in Colorado... Great Financing Dehydration Another tip for successful hunting is to arrive in Colorado Ends March 31, 2014 three or four days before you plan to start your hunt. Allow your body to gradually acclimate to the higher altitude. I recommend spending a night We’ve Got Your Ride! in Denver at 5,280 feet, then a night somewhere between 7,000 and 8,000 feet. Then, move to your base camp at 9,000 to 10,000 feet; scout 3186 Highway 12 E. a day or two very slowly and carefully before the hunt season begins. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, or energy drinks to replenish body Helena electrolytes. Approximately one to two quarts per day should do it. 406-443-7373 Body moisture is lost rapidly through evaporation and can quickly cause onewaymarine.com dehydration, inducing the early onset of altitude sickness...Acclimation Full Parts & Service Depts. in this way allows you several days to become accustomed to higher elevations and lower oxygen levels. It will be a much better hunt if you are © 2014 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. All rights reserved. ®, ™ Trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products or its affiliates. Products are distributed in the United States (US) by BRP U.S. Inc. prepared... Offers valid in the U.S. at participating Ski-Doo® dealers on new and unused 2012, 2013 and 2014 Ski-Doo Summit snowmobile (excluding racing models and spring-only units) purchased, delivered and registered between now Scouting the Area There is no other way to verify that all this and March 31, 2014. §3-year Bumper-to-Bumper warranty: Consumers purchasing a Summit model are entitled homework you have done is actually going to produce results until you to receive 3-year BRP limited warranty (Summit Sport 800 P-TEK model is excluded from this offer). Subject scout the terrain and get to know the lay of the land. Scouting is best to the exclusions, limitations of liabilities and all other terms and conditions of BRP’s standard limited warranty contract, including without limitation the exclusions of damages caused by abuse, abnormal use or neglect. ◊Up accomplished by taking a week or two fishing trip to Colorado to $500 rebate on select 2012 & 2013 models: rebate applicable on new and unused 2012 & 2013 models. Rebate (how terrible!) to look over your potential hunting sites and look for recent amount depends on the model purchased. ‡GREAT FINANCING AVAILABLE: The financing program is offered animal movement and sign. Don’t forget to bring your topo maps so that by Sheffield Financial, a Division of BB&T Financial, FSB. Minimum Amount Financed $1,500; Maximum Amount Financed $50,000. Subject to credit approval; not all applicants will qualify for credit. Approval, and any you can make notes about the elk signs you observe and their specific rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. Promotions are subject to termination or change at locations. any time without notice. See your participating Ski-Doo dealer for all details. Offer may not be assigned, traded, sold or combined with any other offer unless expressly stated herein. Offer void where restricted or otherwise Huge Tip: Do not plan to set up camp in the same meadow or near a prohibited by law. BRP reserves the right, at any time, to discontinue or change specifications, prices, designs, migration route that you intend to hunt! Elk are smart and stay away from features, models or equipment without incurring any obligation. Always consult your snowmobile dealer when selecting a snowmobile for your particular needs and carefully predators. You are that predator. Their sense of smell is much keener read and pay special attention to your Operator’s Guide, Safety than yours. They will detect your bodily waste, your cooking odors, and Video, Safety Handbook and to the safety labelling on your your body odor long before you are able to spot them. snowmobile. Always ride responsibly and safely. Always wear appropriate clothing, including a helmet. Always observe Good hunting and fishing. Don’t forget to smell the wildflowers along the way! applicable local laws and regulations. Don’t drink and drive.

March 2014 43 44 - Hunting & Fishing News Shooting Gobblers You’ve Missed

By Steve Hickoff Yamaha Outdoors Tip

Steve Hickoff photo

The would-be knockout punch you threw failed to deliver. You’ve called a strutting spring gobbler into range, aimed at his fist-sized head and fired. Problem is, the bird flopped then got up like a boxer in the ring with some fight left in him, and is running, or worse: flying off. It’s your move, now or never. How to Fill a Turkey Vest By Steve Hickoff Yamaha Outdoors Tip Most of the time, it’s best to call a wild turkey into range, and squeeze Spring turkey seasons begin...so the time to load that vest with all you off a shot aimed at the standing bird’s head and neck. You’ve tried need is now...some essentials for a successful hunt follow below: that. You’ve failed. Calls: You’ll need two kinds in your vest’s pockets. Though it’s not the best way to anchor a spring gobbler, there are Locator calls help you find silent male birds in an attempt to make them situations when taking a turkey on the run or wing are the only shock gobble. Shock gobbling is the tendency for some spring gobblers options, especially after missed chances, or worse yet, to sound off at loud sounds. when that bird is wounded. Natural sounds such as crow caws or owl hoots are traditional options. Goose honks, hawk screams, coyote howls, woodpecker cries and others Shooting running or flying turkeys is almost always a Plan-B option. work too. Industrial noises and even thunder can cause a gobbler to pop off. Turkey calls can locate gobblers, and pull them to your calling position. Some ways to do it right: Air-activated and friction calls provide options for clucking and yelping. Mouth diaphragms while more portable provide challenges to some. • You missed the first time. Pot and peg, and box calls, are hand operated... The gobbler is running away. Calmly find the target again. Pull the trigger. Dead bird. Seat cushion: Beyond calls, you’ll need a good seat cushion for setups. • Chances are you’re sitting if you’ve called a gobbler into range. Some come attached to your vest. Some can be carried on your shoulder If it flushes, maneuver your body for stability the best you can to or in the vest’s game pouch. Often I pack several. make that shot. Stand up if the crippled bird is laboring off then drop it. Outside of your necessary firearm and shotgun loads, or archery tackle If you are standing, shoot that flushing turkey as you migt other and appropriate arrows, the rest of the vest list goes like this: upland birds, but avoid body shots. Water bottle Snack Cell Phone (turned off) • When a gobbler flushes, you’ve got just seconds to deliver the Compass or GPS unit Knife Turkey tags/licenses payload. Pen for filling tags, with twist ties Toilet paper Pruning shears Shoulder the shotgun smoothly but swiftly, stock to cheek. Keep your Extra shells Flashlight Decoys head down. Track that big bird. Find the neck and head in your sight Binoculars Extra face mask Bug repellent picture—better yet, the wild black eye—and hit your intended target Small camera and gloves Maps with a steady action. Waterproof matches Sandpaper and • Right-handed wingshooters often hold their left index finger scrubbing pads (for dressing friction calls) along the shotgun’s forend to point at the target as they shoulder the firearm. (Southpaws reverse this.) You may think of some others too that I haven’t listed here, including your Practice this when shooting sporting clays or other flying upland birds, lucky turkey spurs or rabbit’s foot...While some of these aforementioned and you’ll be ready if the moment presents itself while turkey hunting. hunting tools are optional, others are not. These may include some Yamaha accessories to make your ride more comfortable. March 2014 45 Advice from a World Record Holder (continued from page 5) Q: Why do you choose to hunt from the ground rather than out of a tree? A: I enjoy hunting from the ground for so many reasons. My favorites are mobility, the ability to adjust without having to make noise by banging around tree stands while removing them, the opportunity to cut deer off if the timing is right, the inability for deer to pattern me coming and going, and most importantly, it’s much more exciting taking a deer from the ~ WALLEYE HUNTER TRIPS ~ ground. I would like to make a very FORT PECK, CANYON FERRY, HOLTER LAKE important point here; I do not or rarely stalk deer! In fact, I don’t recommend TROUT HUNTER (JET BOAT TRIPS) it. Just think of ground hunting as tree ~ MISSOURI RIVER (LAND OF GIANTS) stand hunting where you would scout for a good location, setup and DRIFT BOAT TRIPS clear shooting lanes and examine areas that would be good for a stool, ~ MISSOURI, YELLOWSTONE, MADISON & BIG HORN RIVERS shooting position, etc. but doing it from the ground instead. The beauty MONTANA TRIPLE HEADER MONTANA 6/PACK is being able to move if needed for wind conditions, etc. and doing it FISH 3 DIFFERENT RIVERS FISH 6 DIFFERENT RIVERS with ease. OR LAKES IN 3 DAYS OR LAKES IN 6 DAYS Q: Do you mainly hunt private or public ground? Why do you not hunt with outfitters? FOR MORE INFO CONTACT A: I hunt a fair share of public and private ground. I hunt mostly small CAPTAIN- FORREST FAWTHROP - OUTFITTER #20194 parcels, but will occasionally hunt large ones. I get about 4 – 6 offers 315 N. YELLOWSTONE – BOZEMAN, MT 59718 a year to hunt with outfitters, but I have always declined to do so. I am ~ US COAST GUARD LICENSED ~ a DIY type of hunter and enjoyed making my own bed. If I fail, there’s nobody to blame. If I succeed, it’s a feeling of gratitude. Having said www.walleyehunteroutfitters.com all of that, as you know, I am a professional product tester, so now I (406) 459-5352 have included reviewing outfitters in my annual list of reviews. I feel safe reviewing them because my past accomplishments/failures are all mine and the general public has a desire to read unbiased reviews on outfitters these days. So this year will be my first year including Conservation Community Launches outfitting in my annual list of reviews. It should be fun! Q: What is your biggest year to date? How many Boone and Crockett Montana Outdoor Hall Of Fame MFWP bucks have you harvested? A: I hate answering this question, but it is what it is. My biggest is a A diverse group of Montana state agencies and conservation organizations 204-inch Boone and Crockett non-typical, and I have five that will net recently established the Montana Outdoor Hall of Fame to honor over 170-inches. I think I have nine that will gross Boone and Crockett. individuals who contributed to the restoration and conservation of Some people include the awards level Boone and Crockett racks Montana’s fish, wildlife, and other outdoor amenities. (which are over 160-inches), but I don’t. I just count the 170-inches and PMC Ammunition higher. I do have two bucks that scored 190-inches as typical’s too. Participants in the effort include Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks; the Q: Tell a little about the ghillie suit you wear and where they can be Montana Historical Society; Montana’s Outdoor Legacy Foundation; purchased? the Montana Wildlife Federation; the Montana Wilderness Association; A: I designed the bow hunter ghillie suit about three years ago Montana Trout Unlimited and the Cinnabar Foundation. Efforts to include because there was not anything like it at the time. I have been hunting Tribal representation are underway. whitetails with a ghillie suit for over fifteen years. The beauty of “The aim of the Montana Outdoor Hall of Fame is to capture the stories hunting in a ghillie suit is it breaks up the human silhouette. Even if of the exceptional individuals who, either as volunteers or professionals, deer spot you, which is very rare, they just cannot figure out what you nurtured resources essential to Montana’s outdoor heritage,” are most of the time. I approached a manufacturer of ghillie suits and said Jeff Hagener, director of FWP in Helena... asked them if they were interested in making a bow hunter suit if I showed them my design, and the rest is history. It became an instant Representatives of the founding groups have been meeting monthly to success to my surprise and I have been receiving photos from people assemble a list of potential inaugural nominees. The first group of potential around the country with their success stories (and their failure nominees includes citizens, government officials, hunters and anglers, stories too). I sell the suits from my website at farmers and ranchers; and people who have worked to protect everything www.marcanthonyoutdoors.com or people can email us at from wilderness and water quality to fish habitat, big game, and endangered [email protected] and we can help them pick one out. species. The founders are planning an event to announce the first class Q: What many readers want to know is what you consider to be the of Hall of Fame inductees in December 2014. most important thing to be a successful hunter? “Today’s treasured wild nature was restored from what was once the A: The key to success depends solely on perseverance. wildlife bone-yard of 19th century America,” said Jim Posewitz, who led If you never give up and think things through before executing your the effort to create the Montana Outdoor Hall of Fame...Over the long hunt, you are bound to succeed. run, the founders envision a process where people from across Montana and all walks of life will nominate people who reflect the state’s diverse I have hunted from the ground before with some success, but seeing heritage of resource conservation and stewardship. The group is also the excitement Marc has when it comes to hunting and taking deer seeking funding to help ensure that the Montana Outdoor Hall of Fame from the ground has given me a new admiration for those who are able remains broad-based and representative. to do it. This year you will see more of me on the ground than in a tree when I have a bow in my hand. one mile west of the Dairy Queen on Round Butte Road in Ronan For more information contact Posewitz at [email protected]. 46 - Hunting & Fishing News WESTLAND SEED Over 300 guns in stock GET ‘EM WHILE YOU CAN! to choose from New guns SPRING GUN SALE! arriving daily.

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