Hunting & Fishing News - December 2012

HHUNTING & UNTING & FFISHINGISHING NewsNewsDecember 2012December 2012

New Look Same Dead on Accuracy Made in Montana. Available at your local retailer.

MontanaMontana

Cold Weather Cold Weather WaterfowlingWaterfowling

Plan Your 2013Plan Your 2013Hunt Now!Hunt Now!

Winter Fishing TipsWinter Fishing Tips

LATE SEASON LATE SEASON HHUNTSUNTS

Gear Up For Everything

MISSOULAMISSOULA3015 Paxson St.3015 Paxson St.

728-3220728-3220

BOZEMANBOZEMAN3011 Max Ave.3011 Max Ave.

586-4381586-4381

HELENAHELENA3323 Dredge Dr.3323 Dredge Dr.

443-2138 443-2138

BUTTEBUTTE1925 Dewey Blvd.1925 Dewey Blvd.

494-4452494-4452

HAMILTONHAMILTON1120 N. 1st. St.1120 N. 1st. St.

363-6204 363-6204

or shopor shop24/7 at24/7 at

bobwards.combobwards.com

4 - Hunting & Fishing News

The ride says it all.We’ve Got Your Ride

Don’t miss theseevents

2013 Can-Am ATV LADIELADIES’ NIGHTS’ NIGHTThursday, December 6thThursday, December 6th

5pm - 8pm5pm - 8pmOPEN HOUOPEN HOUSE EVENTSE EVENT

Friday, December 7thFriday, December 7th9am-7pm9am-7pm

Saturday, December 8thSaturday, December 8th9am - 4pm9am - 4pm

Special Event PricingRefreshments

DrawingsRaffl es

3186 HWY. 12 EAST 3186 HWY. 12 EAST, , HELENAHELENA www.onewaymarine.com | Full Parts & Service Departments

Call 443-7373 • 1-800-585-7397Call 443-7373 • 1-800-585-7397®2012 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. All rights reserved.® ™ Trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products or its affi liates. ATVs in the category S are recommended for use only by an experienced operator aged 16 and older. Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc. (BRP) highly recommends that all ATV riders take a training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety, always wear a helmet, eye protection and other protective clothing. Always remember that riding and alcohol/drugs donʼt mix. Never ride on paved surfaces or public roads. Never carry passengers. Never engage in stunt driving. Avoid excessive speeds and be particularly careful on diffi cult terrain. Ride responsibly.

Don’t miss theDon’t miss the30th Annual 30th Annual

Helena Boat ShowHelena Boat ShowFebruary 15, 16, 17February 15, 16, 17

Three sections of Montana’s Missouri River can be excellent here in December for waterfowl hunting.Below Toston Dam, south of Townsend, below Holter Dam off Interstate 15 between Helena and Great Falls or Fort Peck Dam in northeastern Montana, are all exceptional destinations for a December hunt. You have until January 3, 2013 to hunt ducks in the Central Flyway and January 13, 2013 for geese, with the exception of January 7 - 8, 2013 closed to all goose hunting. As we enter the final month for waterfowling, there are numerous places to find ducks, but there are few places more consistent during the winter freeze than below these dams for open water opportunities. Ducks and geese can get educated in a hurry at all of these locations, but with so many birds coming from the north this season, the opportunities to bag many birds will be spectacular. You can hunt the river with a spread of floating decoys. Get access to nearby grain fields, and decoy with a field set-up, or just hang in the weeds to shoot passing birds as they enter or leave the river.If you’re on the river as a winter storm descends out of Alberta, you’ll have closer and more frequent shots. Look for weather patterns such as these, and hunt them as they come in and out.•Holter Dam - Holter Dam’s discharge keeps the river ice-free for about 50 miles downstream of the structure, which keeps honkers around all winter. Good hunting points will be near Pelican Point or downstream to about the mouth of the Dearborn River, or down around Hardy Creek. From Pelican Point down to the towns of Craig and Ulm, you’ll find many more geese, and plenty of mallards. You can also float the river with the many take-out points for a phenomenal day of hunting. •Fort Peck Dam - This area of Montana has the best of both worlds; plenty of birds and very few hunters. The downfall is very few take-out spots, few amenities for hunters, and it is a massive area. Still, there are many spots to set-up decoys in nearby fields or to hunt the river. Expect ice free conditions from the dam downstream to Poplar. Hunt the Dredge Cuts to the School Trust FAS above the mouth of the Milk River.•Toston Dam - Located just off of Highway 287, this area has plenty of duck hunting action. You can hunt from the bridge at Toston all the way downstream to the head of Canyon Ferry Lake, or up to the dam. This section of the river hosts mainly northern mallards, shovelers, green winged teal and golden eyes. The goose will feed in the fields then return to the river in heavy numbers. You can decoy ducks in sloughs and deep bends, and the tail-outs off islands. Mother Nature and the weather patterns will play a factor in duck and geese hunting these areas in December.

© Schlag | Dreamstime.com

By Rick Haggerty

Hunt Below the Dams for Montana Waterfowl

5December 2012

LADIES’ NIGHTThursday, December 6th

5pm - 8pmOPEN HOUSE EVENT

Friday, December 7th9am-7pm

Saturday, December 8th9am - 4pm

3186 HWY. 12 EAST, HELENA

Call 443-7373 • 1-800-585-7397

Don’t miss the30th Annual

Helena Boat ShowFebruary 15, 16, 17

200 Second Ride!After harassing this bull all afternoon, we finally got to see him crossing a sage meadow with about 25 cows. We watched as they fed away from us heading down a canyon. If their course stayed true we could cut them off 1⁄2 mile from camp. The sun was setting and it was worth a try.We were hopping down a 45-degree side hill when the bull let out a loud bugle, maybe 100 yards away. We quickly found a couple spots in the shadows of the scattered Douglas fir trees. Instantly, a cow elk crested the hill with her head down feeding our way. The evening thermals hit me in the face. We had a chance. One question remained, would we be able to penetrate the cow fortress before our scent gave us away?Cows began moving lower on the slope with the bull in tow, now 25 yards from my buddy. The bull did not cooperate for a shot, staying in thick cover. Another group of cows began feeding above me, some merely 20 yards away. The stillness of the evening held us riveted, hoping to remain undetected. The elk were now in a horseshoe formation around us.I watched as the bull slowly followed a cow to an opening. I came to full draw. A cow threw her head up and stared me down. Luckily she began grazing again in about 30 seconds. The bull needed to take a couple of steps before I could release the arrow.Briefly enter my head for this 200 second ride at full draw: 30 seconds, “I’ve got this, you’re done buddy”; 60 seconds, “This is easy, squeeze the shoulder blades, I’ve got all day”; 90 seconds, “Do it for Hannah (my daughter), kill this bull so you can go home”; 120 seconds, “Bonehead, what did you draw so early for, quit shaking, this is getting tough”; 180 seconds, “Good Lord help me keep this bow at full draw! I think I’ve only got 30 seconds before I will involuntarily let this arrow go”; 200 seconds, the bull cleared the tree, “Don’t rush it, settle that top green pin, slight quarter to, keep it tight to the shoulder, squeeze”. Thwack!I remember seeing the Victory arrow buried deep to the fletching tight to the shoulder 6 inches above the brisket. Given the angle, it looked good to me! We found the bull, although it was not as easy as planned. All in all, another great ride on the elk hunting roller coaster. Don’t jump off in the middle and you’ll be fine. Perseverance ... still the greatest element of success. Thanks for reading!

By Mark Rohlfi ng, Sponsored by Victory, Goat Tuff , Tru Fire, Arizona Rim, S4 Gear, MyTopo, Barnett CrossbowsReprinted with permission from bowhunting.net. For more information, please visit www.bowhunting.net

Author with his trophy bull


BOATS - Alumaweld - Bentley Pontoons • Chaparral - Centurion • Tahoe • Tracker OUTBOARD MOTORS - Honda - Yamaha - MercuryBOATS - Alumaweld - Bentley Pontoons • Chaparral - Centurion • Tahoe • Tracker OUTBOARD MOTORS - Honda - Yamaha - MercuryYAMAHA - Generators - Snowmobiles - ATV’s - Side x Sides - Dirt Bikes • Cruisers - Street Bikes - Scooters - Boats - Pumps

MEN’S, WOMEN’S & YOUTH APPAREL - PLUS - Klim Gear!MEN’S, WOMEN’S & YOUTH APPAREL - PLUS - Klim Gear!

MontanaʼsNewest

Tracker BoatsDealer

Amazing deals, selection, &

fi nancing!

Plan To Attend Our

Boat ShowFebruary 1st to 3rdKleff ner Ranch

3654 Hwy. 12 East-Helena3654 Hwy. 12 East-Helena 406-449-6595406-449-6595

montanamotorsportsandmarine.commontanamotorsportsandmarine.com

GOOD MORNING; GOOD NIGHT By Tom Neustrom

Focus on the bookends of the day to maximize your walleye catching successCutting to the chase, there are two exceptional times to catch walleyes – sunup and sundown. Sure, there are tinged water ‘daytime lakes’ that potentially produce any ‘ol time. And the most crystalline of the clear lakes generally promote overnight activity. But regardless of the color of the water, to stack the deck in your favor, set your sights on the openings and ends of the day.Suck it up and get up early if you want to tap the morning bite. My old creaky bones move at a slow pace, but mentally I’m prepared to fly, because I want to be setup and fishing before sunrise. And that includes prepping my gear the night before so it’s turn the ignition, warm up the truck, fill the coffee mug, and roll. Get out there early and settle on a spot. This isn’t a time to explore. I’ll drill two or three holes and then silence the StrikeMaster. This is more about timing than finding fish. Concentrate on tried and true spots, even bucking your desire to fish away from the masses. Community holes aren’t there by accident. You can beat the regulars at their own game, though, by hooking a walleye before the first light flickers in a hard-house window. Realize, too, that there are two types of morning bites. One version is where fish move up on key structures during peak feeding times. They move up, eat, and exit stage right...or left. Elsewhere, fish are in the general area all day, and the feeding switch flips at dawn and dusk.

I prefer the first scenario, readying for a preemptive strike, getting out in front of incoming walleyes. This requires that you identify the lanes or entry-points fish use during feeding runs. Think of a catcher waiting on a pitch that’s coming right down the pipe.One such spot is a significant weed edge that drops off into deep water. Find the sheerest, weeded break and you’re onto a primo opening spot. Typically, on northern natural lakes, it’ll be in 12 to 20-feet of water, specific depth dictated by water clarity – the clearer the lake, the deeper the weeds. Weed edges are easily diagnosed on my Humminbird ICE 55 portable flasher. The six-color, fiber-optic display reveals green bars and flickers splaying from the bottom – that’s the vegetation. More flickers mean more weeds, and that’s good. Check one more hole over and the green is gone – I’ve located the edge. Time to fish. Another low-hanging-fruit-location for early ice is an abrupt shoreline break, weeded or not, especially when it’s associated with a point – rocks making it even a stronger candidate. Specifically, rocks the size of human heads or smaller, like red-stitched softballs. (Gigantic boulders are visually appealing, but not the preferred structure of winter walleyes).For reasons I honestly can’t explain, morning walleyes tend to be bigger fish. You might not get bit as often, but the rewards are greater. So put your eggs in the morning basket if it’s trophies you seek. (continued page 16)

High defi nition sonar is critical, nearly mandatory for spying the crisp weedlines that walleyes utilize. Humminbird’s ICE 55 and its spectacular six-color display make seeing the greens child’s play. Photo by Bill Lindner Photography

7December 2012

Countdown to IceCountdown to Ice

BOATS - Alumaweld - Bentley Pontoons • Chaparral - Centurion • Tahoe • Tracker OUTBOARD MOTORS - Honda - Yamaha - MercuryYAMAHA - Generators - Snowmobiles - ATV’s - Side x Sides - Dirt Bikes • Cruisers - Street Bikes - Scooters - Boats - Pumps

MEN’S, WOMEN’S & YOUTH APPAREL - PLUS - Klim Gear!

3654 Hwy. 12 East-Helena 406-449-6595

montanamotorsportsandmarine.com

From Frabill

Frabill fabricates a faster, fi nger-friendly ice tool.

New 241 Straight Line Combomerges Bro Series blanks with advanced “no line twist” reels.

Only one season ago Frabill hit the reset button on ice fi shing reels. Spinning reels still reign, and are core to the sport, but the radically different Straightline yielded an advantage that simply couldn’t be spun out previously: line twist. The friendly-fl ow off the Straightline reel keeps line in its original, off-the-shelf, untwisted condition. Now, the ice-heads at Frabill have taken the same principles and amped up the technology, designing the Straightline 241 Bro Series Combo. Commencing at the reel, the lightweight composite techno-tool is built to provide strength and durability – and all the while remaining lightweight. The unique composite design offers the additional benefi t of not feeling cold to the skin in frigid temperatures. Line waterfalls gracefully from its balanced spool, while an amazing 2.4:1 ratio retrieves line at a rate never seen before in a fl y-fi shing styled reel. Its oversized handle eliminates fumble-fi ngers, even for guys with oversized paws. Lastly, like all of Frabill’s premium reels, the 241 is infused with Sub-Zero® lubricant to keep parts moving fl uidly regardless of the air temp. “It’s like holding the future in my hands,” says combo collaborator Brian “Bro” Brosdahl. “I thought Frabill put itself clearly out in front of the pack with the original Straightline reel. Now, we’ve entered hyperspace at lightspeed. The 241 is so advanced, so fi shable, so ahead of its time...” The matched rods are similarly special. All Straightline 241 Bro Series Combo blanks are technique and species specifi c –bluegills to crappies to perch to walleyes. Line fl ows effortlessly through durable and dynamic aluminum oxide guides. Each model also features a unique aluminum reel seat to securely fasten the 241 reel to the rod. The Straightline 241 Bro Series Combo is available in six technique-types: UL 24” Panfi sh Jigging Application, 24” Quick Tip (panfi sh), 30” Quick Tip (panfi sh), L 30” (fi nesse walleye/larger panfi sh), 36” Quick Tip (panfi sh) and L 36” (fi nesse walleyes/larger panfi sh).


Taking Care Of Your Investment How To Clean Your Firearm

By Jeff Davis, Editor, Whitetails Unlimited. www.whitetailsunlimited.com single firearm costs hundreds of dollars, but can easily last a

lifetime if properly cared for. Protect your investment by properly cleaning your firearms.TIP 1: SAFETY FIRST Always clear the chamber and insure the gun is unloaded before starting, and even if disassembled, treat every firearm, at all times, as if it is loaded.TIP 2: STAY ORGANIZED Work in a well-lighted, ventilated area. Assemble all needed materials in advance, and eliminate any distractions. Use a gun cleaning pad which is lint-free and prevents spills from soaking through onto the table underneath, and can be washed to remove oil and solvent.TIP 3: LOOK FOR PROBLEMS Disassemble the firearm as much as possible, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. No not disassemble beyond what is recommended. As you prepare the firearm for cleaning inspect thoroughly for cracked parts, rust, signs of excessive wear or other problems. Contact a trained gunsmith for any necessary repairs.TIP 4: FOLLOW THE GUIDE Clean the firearm from the breach end whenever possible, which can prevent solvents, oil or debris from getting into the action. If it is necessary to clean from the muzzle, use a muzzle guide to keep the cleaning rod from rubbing on the crown.TIP 5: SIZE MATTERS Use the proper size rod, brush and patches. Use a one-piece coated or composite rod to avoid metal-to-metal contact with the rifling.TIP 6: ONE-WAY ONLY Saturate a patch with solvent and pass it through the bore in one direction only. Pulling a dirty patch (or brush) backthrough the barrel can redeposit material or put debris into the action.

Repeat with solvent on a patch, and then wait a couple of minutes to let the solvent soak. Push a brush through the barrel (in one direction only) 3-6 times. Follow with patches (or a Bore Snake) wet with solvent until they come out clean. Then use dry patches until all the solvent is removed from the barrel and the patches are completely clean.TIP 7: SCRUB A DUB Use a small nylon brush soaked in solvent to thoroughly clean all accessible areas in the action, and wipe with a clean cloth to remove any remaining solvent. Be careful to keep solvent from seeping into enclosed areas of the action.TIP 8: LIGHTLY LUBRICATE Use a clean patch with a small amount of oil on it to lightly coat the inside of the barrel, and then use a small amount of oil on a clean, lint-free cloth to lightly lubricate all moving parts and all surfaces that have been degreased by the solvent.TIP 9: TOGETHER AGAIN As you reassemble the firearm, make sure you remove any fingerprints with an oiled cloth. Do not apply too much oil. While all metal surfaces need a coating of oil to prevent rust, too much oil will attract dust, lint and debris, and can drain into the action and gum up moving parts. Store the firearm muzzle-down, so excess oil will not drain into the action.TIP 10: LOOK AT WHAT YOU’RE MISSING If you haven’t checked the cleaning supply rack in a sporting goods store in a while, stop and take a look. There are many new products that make this chore faster and more efficient. Bore Snakes can replace patches, oil bottles with long, needle-like dispensers will put a scant drop just where it is needed, cleaning pads also protect the kitchen table, and rods that can’t damage your firearm are just a few recent improvements.

AA

9December 2012

TOWNSENDTOWNSEND

MARINE7812 Hwy. 287 So.

(406) 266-5700

GREAT FALLSSTEVE’S SPORTS

CENTER4700 9th Ave. South

(406) 727-8607

HAMILTONAL’S CYCLE

619 Highway 93N.(406) 363-3433

MISSOULAFIVE VALLEY

YAMAHA5900 Hwy. 93 S.

(406) 251-5900

HELENAMONTANA

MOTORSPORTS & MARINE3654 Hwy. 12 E.

(406) 449-6595

*Finance offer subject to credit approval, applies to purchases of new Yamaha Motorcycles, ATVs, S&Ss & Scooters made on a Yamaha Installment Financing loan account from 10/1/12 - 12/26/12. Min. contract length 24 mos. max. 36 mos. Min. amount fi nanced $5,000. Fixed APR of 3.99% or up to 12.99% assigned based on credit approval criteria. Monthly payments per $1,000 fi nanced based on 36-mo. term are $29.52 at 3.99% and $33.69 at 12.99%. Offer good only in the U.S., excluding the state of Hawaii. Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, gloves and boots. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely and respect the environment. For further information regarding the MSF course, please call 1-800-446-9227. ATV models shown are recommended for use only by riders 16 years and older. Raptor 700R recommended for experienced riders only. Yamaha recommends that all ATV riders take anapproved training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For you safety: Always avoid paved surfaces. Never ride on public roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing: never carry passengers: never in stunt riding: riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix: avoid excessive speed; and be particularly careful on diffi cult terrain. Professional riders depicted on closed courses. ©2012 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. • yamaha-motor.com 10/12

Get Yours Today At One Of These Fine Dealers!

OFFER ENDS 12/26/12.

MISSOULAMIKE TINGLEY’S

2150 South Ave., W.(406) 549-4260

Food matters when you want to pull sky-bound ducks and geese into your spot. The spread you set is obviously defi ned by the calculated way you place your decoys in front of your gunning position. Most of all, it’s crucial to making that location all it can be.

The key: set it up so that incoming waterfowl can pick an open spot to try and land where they already want to be -- or where they realized they want to be on seeing your fake birds out there, enhanced by calling. Shoot them as they cup and commit.

Place that open spot so that it’s in a shooting lane you desire. Then wait, calls ready if needed.

Rough It Up: Ducks and geese don’t envision the pretty geometric spreads you do the night before while tossing and turning in a camp bunk. Sometimes you’ll need to set up ragged spreads to represent geese and ducks that have landed and are feeding comfortably -- even though tight spreads might also suggest a concentrated food source...

How Birds Move: What’s the fl ight path of your local waterfowl? Study it on your four Yamaha wheels. The spot you pick to hunt has to be in the reliable path of geese and ducks that move from where they loaf at night to where they might feed in the morning. Places like pastures and even marshes qualify here. Zero-grade rice fi elds and possibly unfrozen river systems do too.

Learn the Alphabet: Terrain and traditional approach depending, some guys prefer a “C” spread of decoys, with the geese and ducks encouraged to land in the open area. For others, an “X” works, and gunners hide at the center of the set. Still others employ a “V” shape for their decoys, pointing that into the wind (weather depending). Others prefer the fi shhook “J” way of putting out fakes. Tweak it as you hunt, especially as the breeze shifts.

No Spread: Let’s face it: not every casual waterfowler is as enamored with fancy decoy spreads as the rest of us. They might not even call to birds. They just want to kill a few. Instead, they wait near a food source where they’ve seen ducks and geese recently -- or consistently in previous seasons. You can too...

Show Waterfowl Show Waterfowl Where to CommitWhere to Commit

Photo and article bySteve Hickoff, Yamaha Outdoors


Christmas is coming, Christmas is coming, Get your gifts Get your gifts All at ONE Place and at a super price!and at a super price!

16490 Old Hwy. 93 S. - Lolo16490 Old Hwy. 93 S. - Lolotraderbrothers.comtraderbrothers.com(406) 273-3555(406) 273-3555

Ammo • New & Used Guns • OpticsFishing • Stoves • Farm & RanchFishing • Stoves • Farm & Ranch

Full Selectionof AmmoFirearms& Optics

At Trader Bros. you getquality products from

leading manufacturers at everyday low prices.

ADVERTISINGRICK HAGGERTY (406) 370-1368Publisher - Amy Haggerty - Helena, MT. [email protected] entire contents is © 2012, all rights reserved. May not be reproduced without prior consent. The material and information printed is from various sources from which there can be no warranty or responsibility by Big Sky Outdoor News & Adventure. Nor does the printed material necessarily express the views of Big Sky Outdoor News & Adventure. All photo & editorial submissions become the property of big sky outdoor News & adventure to use or not use at their discretion. VOLUME 9 issue 9.Cover photo: ©Tom Reichner|shutterstock

Thank you for reading the Hunting & Fishing News.

Please support the advertisers you see in this publication and let them know you saw their advertisement

in the Hunting & Fishing News.

VERSATILITY:•Carry out your trophy

•Haul Camp Gear•Emergency uses

•Farm & ranch THE ADVANTAGES:

•Save your back•Carry no weight

•Affordably priced•Environmentally friendly

•Compact storage

“The Easy Way Out & Back”

6-1/2” x 26-1/2” x 40”Weight: 40 lbs.

217 Snowy View Drive • Libby, MT. 59923Toll Free (877)690-4170 or (406)293-6712

e-mail: [email protected] • www.neetkart.com

NEET KART The unique

2-wheel in-line concept,

a “peoplepowered ATV!”

PERFECT HUNTING COMPANION

Works great with an ATV!Get yours today!

MAKES A GREATCHRISTMAS GIFT

Recommended buy “Big Game

Bowhunter” magazine.

The EASIEST WAY TO MOVE PACKS, GAME , TRAVERSE ROUGH COUNTRY AND GO AROUND GATES

WATERFOWL FLASH HUNTS Photo and article by Steve Hickoff, Yamaha Outdoors

Time is limited, we all know that. If you’re a waterfowler who likes to fill your days with some hunting along with the rest of your daily duties, listen up.

HUNT DAYBREAKRise early, drive to your spots, ideally where you’ve nailed down some ducks or geese by flash scouting. Set your decoy spread

and wait for the morning flight. Most of you’ll agree that first legal light (the “false dawn” period) and roughly an hour after that is the best time of the day. Get in. Get out. Get some waterfowling action.

Now get yourself off to work.

JUMPSHOOT MIDDAYRiver and pond ducks especially

like loafing between the hard feeding they do at daybreak and in the afternoon. A walk into a spot you know holds ducks can provide a nice little “hunting lunch.”

Stash your chest waders in the back of your truck. Walk to your spot. With luck, you’ll find groups of birds settled in along the slow-moving edges of creeks and waterways, farm ponds and the like. Think of this as a bonus hunting deal.

Kill a few? Simply put those birds in your truck cooler and finish out the day at work. The memory of sneaking in a little hunting action might even make that afternoon more tolerable.

HUNT LATE AFTERNOONThe same goes for leaving work a little early to get one quick finish in during the last hour of legal hunting.A lot of this will be of the pass shooting kind of action, as ducks and geese move from feeding areas to roosting spots, but you can still scratch out a little hunt. It also helps let you know where birds might be for your waterfowl hunt the next morning.

FOUR-WHEELED FLASH HUNTSLoad the decoys on the back of your Yamaha ATV or Side-by-Side. Drive down to your spot. Set out your decoy spread. Wait for the morning or afternoon flight. Haul up your fakes. Get yourself home to that duck or goose dinner you’ll make. Life’s good. Time’s short. Flash hunts satisfy.

11December 2012

Christmas is coming, Get your gifts and at a super price!

16490 Old Hwy. 93 S. - Lolotraderbrothers.com(406) 273-3555 Fishing • Stoves • Farm & Ranch

DECOYS FOR DEER – YES OR NO?By Bob Robbsponsored by Wildlife Research Center

I have a love/hate relationship with deer decoys.Like many bowhunters, I love using decoys for big gobblers, and after the dust settled following this year’s spring turkey season my mind had already fast-forwarded to the coming deer seasons. (I know, I know, it is an illness!) What about decoys for whitetails. Do they hurt, or help you?Gary Clancy is one skilled, experienced whitetail hunter who has had so much success using deer decoys that he has become something of a fanatic. His classic 200-plus page book, “Rattling & Decoying Whitetails” has become a sort of bible on the topic. While there are several nuances to using decoys successfully, Clancy stresses three things above all else:1) Decoy placement is the most important part of the game, even more important than what brand of decoy you use. “The wind must always be blowing from the decoy to your stand, for obvious reasons,” Clancy said. “Also, always face a buck decoy towards your stand and a doe decoy away from your stand. Never mind all of that ‘sage’ advice which says to never face a decoy towards your stand. Those guys have never decoyed deer. When a buck deer approaches a buck decoy, it will virtually always circle the decoy until it is nose-to-nose. When that happens, it is facing away from you and giving you the shot angle you need. Conversely, a buck deer will almost always approach a doe decoy from the rear, checking her for estrous.”2) After setting up the decoy spray it down with an odor neutralizing spray. “Using a decoy that smells like a human won’t cut it,” Clancy said. “Wear rubber gloves when handling the decoy, then after it is in position spray it down liberally.”

It is critical to spray down your decoy with a quality scent eliminating spray before going to your stand. If a deer smells you on the decoy, it is all over.

3) The more visible and the greater distance at which the decoy is visible the more effective it will be. “The farther away a deer sees a decoy when it first spots it, the better the odds that it will commit to the decoy,” Clancy said. “Decoys in heavy cover scare more deer than they attract.” Field edges, dry creek bottoms and sloughs, and fence lines are great decoy spots, as are open stands of mature woods. In fields, place the decoy up on a small hillock or mound, especially if you are hunting a depression or hollow, so it will be visible to deer no matter where they enter the area.Clancy believes that your chances of having a mature buck come to your decoy are best during the 10- to 14-day period just prior to the first estrus. During this time bucks are actively scraping and roaming, and seem to respond to both grunting and rattling, which is a very effective way to draw a buck’s attention to a decoy that it might otherwise not see. During the peak of the rut, when most of the mature bucks have already found does to breed, it is possible to decoy in immature bucks, but the chances of pulling in a whopper are greatly lessened.Some hunters like to use scent, like rutting buck or doe-in-estrous, in conjunction with decoys. If you do use scent, instead of putting it on the

decoy itself, take a small stick, jab it into the ground underneath the deer’s belly, and place a scent wick on the stick. This may hold deer around your decoy longer, which of course can help when you are waiting for them to move into position for a shot. Whatever you want to use a good place to shop is Wildlife Research Center.My experience with decoys over the years has been mixed. I have tried them in many different environments, from the wide-open prairies of the Dakotas to the agricultural-rich Midwest to the timbered mountains of the West, as well as some use in the Deep South and western Canada. When the decoy craze first began in the early 1980’s, we stumbled about using crude 3D targets as decoys and essentially terrified far more deer than we excited. Then, as knowledge was gained through experience and the decoys became more sophisticated, successes became more prevalent. (This is especially true if you can add a little motion to the decoy). The one thing I did learn is that, like all things whitetail hunting, nothing will guarantee a close encounter with a mature buck each and every time you try it.Deer decoys can help you get a shot at a mature buck under the right circumstances, but like all things whitetails, it doesn’t work all the time.That’s why today, while I still use decoys from time to time, I pick my spots judiciously. The timing has to be right, local buck-to-doe ratios strong, the terrain conducive to the deer seeing the decoy from afar, and it has to be possible to haul a decoy into position, then set it up, quietly, with little fear of spooking deer in the process. What about you guys? Are you decoy believers, or not?

Verizon Jetpack™4G LTE Mobile Hotspot

890LSamsung Galaxy S® III

3920 Hwy 93 N. Ste A, Stevensville, MT. 406-777-08881220 N. 1st Street, Hamilton, MT. 406-375-9905 906 9th St., West, Columbia Falls, MT. 406-892-7880

You don’t even have to come to us. Just ship us your device. We’ll diagnose and call with a

repair cost. PLUS, we’ll pay for shipping 1 way.

©2012 Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC. Samsung and Galaxy S are both registered trademarks of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. 4G LTE is available in more than 400 markets in the U.S.

WE REPAIR: XBox & PS3,

Smartphones, Tablets, Cell

Phones, iPhones, iPods, iPads

We Save ‘Em All!PHONES • WIRELESS INTERNET


Where To Find TheWhere To Find The TTiger Muskiesiger Muskies

Sales•Exceptional Service•Boats•ATVs•Accessories

Montanaʼs Largest Lund Dealer

7812 Hwy. 287 S., Townsend (406) 266-5700

www.townsendmarine.com

It’s worth a drive to Townsend. Three Forks exit at I-90 or from Helena Hwy. 287.

See us at one of these showsSee us at one of these showsHELENAHELENA

January 4, 5, 6, 2013Great Rockies Sport Show

BILLINGSBILLINGSJanuary 11, 12, 13, 2013Great Rockies Sport Show

HELENAHELENAJanuary 25, 26, 27, 2013

The Boat Show

GREAT FALLSGREAT FALLSFebruary 8, 9, 10, 2013Pierce RV & Boat Show

LargestLUND dealer

in the Pacifi c Northwest

A tiger musky is a cross sterile hybrid between a northern pike and a muskellunge. These fi sh aren’t easy to fi nd, but when you do, you are sure to enjoy a good fi ght. Because they are sterile, they must be stocked from hatcheries. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has stocked Deadman’s Reservoir with tiger musky in an effort to control sucker fi sh. The current Montana State tiger musky record was caught in Deadman’s Reservoir and was 50 inches and weighed 38.75 pounds. Leon Cantin caught the record fi sh on September 2, 2011.

Deadman’s Basin Fishing Access Site is located on Deadman’s Reservoir, 20 miles east of Harlowtown or 9 miles west of Ryegate on Hwy. 12.

Game Fish Opportunities for Deadman’s Reservoir include:Kokanee, Rainbow Trout, Tiger Muskie

Idaho offers tiger muskyfi shing in Blue Lake (7 onthe map). Just a short drivewest of Missoula, Montana. Located in Bonner County, this 80 acre lake also offersfi shing for northern pike,largemouth bass, crappie,yellow perch, bullheadcatfi sh, and pumkinseed. Jerkbaits, crankbaits and large spinnerbaits work for tiger muskies. Try casting from rock outcroppings near the shore along weedlines. Let it fl oat down to the bottom, jig and bounce up. These fi sh often short-strike, and they can be diffi cult to hook. Don’t spend more than 30 minutes or so in one area.

Idaho’s record tiger musky was caught on Hauser Lake, Idaho in June of 2001 by Douglas Butts of Eureka, MT. using a Mepp’s Bucktail Yellow.The fi sh weighed 38lb. 7oz.

Idaho Fish and Game Map

MFWP

13December 2012

BILLINGS - 800-655-1170 • BOZEMAN - 866-782-2717 MISSOULA - 888-989-5569

www.cmoninn.com

•Spacious & Comfortable Rooms • Complimentary Deluxe Continental breakfast•Large Indoor Pools & Jacuzzis - All Hotels • Business Meeting Facilities

•High Speed Internet Access • Exercise & Game Rooms • iPod Docking Stations In All Rooms • Refrigerators, Microwaves, Coffee Makers In Every Room • 42” or 50” Flat Screen TV In Every Room

Lodge LikeLodge LikeAtmosphere WithAtmosphere WithResort AmenitiesResort Amenities

Best Value InMontana Lodging.

1944 Birch St., Missoula, MT Call for a free estimate (406) 721-0881visit us on the web at www.mountainstatescollisionrepair.com

“Where Honesty & Quality Come Together”

Mountain StatesCollision Repair, Inc.

Don’t Miss a Day On The Water

Bev SteinbrennerSteelhead

BIG or SMALLBIG or SMALLDing, Dent, Ding, Dent, Or MAJOROr MAJOR

BODY WORKBODY WORK WE CAN HELPWE CAN HELP

Call us 1stCall us 1st

This report highlights a few of the best places to fish, what anglers are using and what they are catching. The information is compiled from regional Fish and Game fishery managers, local tackle shops and anglers.

STEELHEADSteelhead are well distributed region-wide now, and the Clearwater, Snake, and Salmon rivers are fishing well. Recent catch rates were 16 hours per fish caught in the Clearwater River below the Orofino Bridge, 8 hours per fish caught in the Snake River downstream of the Salmon River, and 8 hours per fish caught on the Salmon River from the Little Salmon downstream to Whitebird Creek.

Boat anglers are having good success back trolling dark plugs and side drifting eggs and sand shrimp. Bank anglers are consistently producing fish by drifting bait or with float and baited jigs. Fly anglers, both sink tip and dry line users, are also catching fish using large nymphs, egg patterns, and colorful dry flies. With steelhead fly fishing, it’s more about getting your fly in front of a willing fish than the particular fly used.Lakes and ReservoirsLate fall and early winter fishing can be very good at all lakes and reservoirs, and you may have it all to yourself. Winchester, Spring Valley, Moose Creek, Elk Creek, Mann, Soldiers Meadow and Waha Lakes provide good fishing opportunities for stocked rainbow trout and various warm water fish.

Rivers and StreamsNovember can be very productive fishing the Lochsa, Selway, North Fork Clearwater rivers, and Kelly Creek. Fly anglers should focus on the deeper pools and use smaller nymphs to find fish. These streams have harvest and gear restrictions to protect the easily caught cutthroat, so please review the regulations before you go.

If you’re looking for something new, the hard-fighting, yet under-appreciated whitefish is very common in the region and can grow to 20 inches. The Clearwater River below Orofino, the Selway, Lochsa, and North Fork Clearwater rivers all have excellent populations of this sporty fish. Small wet flies fished just off the bottom in riffle areas works very well.

CLEARWATER REGION CLEARWATER REGION FISHING REPORT

Idaho Department of Fish and Gamefrom November 13, 2012

www.wefi shhere.com208-476-3791

WANNA CATCH A WHOPPER? Steelhead are here! They are willing to play! Offering the Best Prices on the

Clearwater.


Arctic Fox, Canyon Cat, Denali, Fox Mountain, Nash, Laredo, Avalanche, Puma, Open Range, Wolf Creek, Snow River, Raptor, Alpine, Aspen Trail

HELENA, MT.1-800-246-8542

406-442-8542www.ddrvcenter.com

Montana’s LARGEST Puma Dealer!Montana’s LARGEST Puma Dealer!

WHOLESALE RV WHOLESALE RV PRICING TO THE PRICING TO THE PUBLIC!PUBLIC! Attending theAttending the

Great Rockies Sports Show?Great Rockies Sports Show?Come down to our lotCome down to our lot

and see us before you buy!Monday - Friday 8am - 5:30pm

Saturday 9am - 4pm

We are very easy to fi nd! Drive to Walmart in Helena on US HWY 12 and turn North. Drive to the Stop sign on Billings Avenue and take a left heading West toward I-15 and you will drive right to us!

SAVE OVER$22,000

New 2012 Alpine 3495FLFront living room, heat pump, dual air conditioners, 6 point leveling system, central vacuum, 13 cubic foot side by side fridge and much more!

List Price: $82,279.00Our Price: $59,999.00 We Save You: $22,280.00

Save$5,732 The walk around bed makes into a

sofa for daytime use and converts to a comfortable bed in the evening. With a large rear bathroom and lots of closet and cabinet space, you wonʼt fi nd another model like this one.

List Price:$22,731Our Price:$16,999

NEW 2012 Puma 20QB Rear Bath

Save$7,532List Price: $31,032

Our Price: $23,500

2013 Puma 259RBSS Bunks Bunk bed 5th wheel with a super slide out,awesome U shaped dinette that will seat extra peopleat meal or game time and makes a terrifi c extra bed.

NewShipmentof Raptor

Toy HaulersJust Arrived!

Largest Selection Of New & Used RVs in Stock!PRICES STARTING AT $6,400 AND

GOING UP TO $70,450

Opportunities around Fort Peck Dam for waterfowl hunting will be exceptional, as long as the wheat benches that surround the lakes lowerportion don’t drift over with a December snow. If the fields get snow, expect most of the birds to head south in search of better forage. You can catch orange-legged mallards that are using the lake and the open water Missouri River just below the dam. USFWS - The Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge is the crowning glory of this area, extending 125 airline miles up the Missouri River from Fort Peck Dam. The Refuge contains approximately 1,100,000 acres, including the 245,000-acre Fort Peck Reservoir. Waterfowl hunting is allowed on the Refuge in accordance with State seasons and limits. Hunters must use and may only possess steel or other approved non-toxic shot in the field while hunting waterfowl on the Refuge. The use of dogs for hunting waterfowl and upland game birds is permitted.

Camping is allowed on the Refuge, except where designated as closed. Camping (other than backpacking) must take place within 100 yards of the waters

of the Missouri River and Fort Peck Reservoir or within 100 yards of numbered roads that are designated as open. Direct access by

mechanized vehicles from a numbered road is permitted to and from temporary overnight campsites within 100 yards of numbered roads

designated as open. Select the most direct access to avoid damage to soils and vegetation. ALL camping is limited to 2 weeks within any 30 day

period. If you’re looking for another option, consider the Duck Creek Campground.

DUCK CREEK CAMPGROUND - visitmt.comDuck Creek Campground is located on the scenic Fort Peck Lake near the town of Fort Peck. This primitive camping area has 15 designated campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. Amenities include vault toilets and a boat

ramp. Enjoy a location with easy boating access. Duck Creek Campground is also just a few miles away from where you can buy gas, bait and

fishing licenses. Season: All Year Directions: Duck Creek Campground is located 2 miles west of Fort Peck on Highway 117, then southwest on Highway 24 about 1 mile, turn south or left on Duck Creek Road travel 2 miles, turn left on access road to

recreation area.

USFWS Map

Charles M. RussellNational Wildlife Refuge

WATERFOWL HUNTING

15December 2012

UNTING OREGON BLACKTAILS

Dallas LandCOMPANY

112 Willow • Helena, MT. 59602

443-5110www.dallas-land.com

GATES OF THE MOUNTAINS LAKE SHORE HOMES2.6 acre cabin site with power and docking facilities on Upper HolterLake. Terms available. $65,000MLS# 276538

6915 CRAIGLE LANEUnfi nished 2 story cabin on a scenic 35 acre lot in Eldorado Heights. Loft is fi nished enough that you can use right away. HOA dock on Hauser Lake and a designated sapphire digging area for the lot owner. Power to cabin. Price reduced to $150,000 MLS# 270667

HUNTER’S PARADISE 40 acres east of Flesher Pass that encompasses a lush wetland area with a high producing spring. Numerous game trails lead into this wildlife sanctuary. Borders USFS on three sides. $100,000 MLS# 283550

Don Dallas 410-0406Curt Dallas 410-0769Ken Rudio 439-5541

Contact one of our qualified Agents

CANYON FERRY LAKEEnjoy the view of the lake and all the recreation opportunities the area has to offer from this neat 2 bedroom one level on 7.5 acres. Pond, garage and small yard. Super retirement home. $250,000 MLS# 280757.

ELDORADO HEIGHTSHunting, fi shing, sapphire digging are available with this inexpensive 20 acres. Docking facilities on Hauser Lake . Power. $50,000. MLS# 283527

By Roy K. Keefer

Reprinted with permission from Bowhunting.netFor more visit www.bowhunting.net

H

One day I looked at the list of states I had hunted and realized one state I was missingwas not too far away. So in November my wife, Shelby, and I were on the road to hunt blacktail deer in Oregon. That would make 23 states that have sold me a hunting license.If you have never been there, it’s beautiful. Mountains, streams, and thick forestation are eye catching. One drawback – it rains a lot in Oregon. Without it, the thick vegetation would not exist. Being aware of the weather, we included good rain gear in our bags.I had done some homework before the hunt, and one individual was recommended by more than one of the people I called. Steve Lee owns a small piece of property in the southern part of the state. Steve is not an outfi tter or guide but simply charges for trespass rights. His farm is small, however, one unusual aspect of the property is that deer tend to migrate through it as winter comes on.First to pass through are the does, followed by the bucks since the migration occurs about the same time as the rut. All of this makes for some great hunting opportunities.We got settled in our motel and the next morning met Steve, and agreed to follow him to the hunting area. As I mentioned. there are mountains in Oregon and we drove on a narrow, winding road up a mountainside in the dark. Finally we topped out, parked and walked to our blind.We video most of our hunts, and hunt out of a Double Bull blind whenever possible. The blind allows us to move freely while fi lming and offers shelter from bad weather. Thank goodness we had the blind to keep us out of the rain we encountered during the hunt.As daylight came, we immediately began to see deer moving around us. Lots of does and fawns fed on the mountainside and kept us entertained in the early hours. From time to time, we saw bucks, but nothing that piqued my interest. I was fortunate to have taken a nice blacktail a few years before in California, so I was going to be picky. At the end of the day, we had seen many does and a few small bucks.On the second day, we set up in the blind and were smothered by fog. The fog came and went several times. When it fi nally cleared we saw a decent size buck following some does. The rut was defi nitely on. He kept his nose to the ground as he trotted from one doe to the next never letting them out of his sight. The buck followed some does to a wooded area to our left, and remained there for some time. Not fi nding any does that were interested in him, he decided to move on and check out some other does. As he did, he moved in front of our blind, stopping at 20 yards broadside.In no time, I had my bow drawn, aimed and released the Victory. The buck took off to our left followed by some of the spooked does. I felt confi dent I had made a good shot, but nonetheless, we waited for an hour before we attempted to follow him.Intermittent rain had pretty much obliterated any chance of following a blood trail. We asked Steve to help us track the buck, and we scoured the mountainside.Shelby is the better tracker of our duo, and she again proved it on this trip, fi nding the buck lying in the bottom of a ravine about 100 yards away. It was a nice buck, full bodied and sporting a nice set of horns. Later I had him scored for Pope & Young. He grossed 113” and netted 108-1/8”, exactly the same net score as the buck I had shot in California fi ve years before. In case you don’t know, the minimum for inclusion in the P&Y record book is 95”.We’ll be going back to Oregon one year to collect a buck for Shelby, and it will be my turn to carry the camera. If you get a chance, give Oregon a try.

Another great blacktail falls to author


900 SERIES

500 SERIES

TROPHY 175

MV 1756 AW CC

SEE US AT THE

GREAT ROCKIESSPORT SHOWS!

Assuming I’m sitting over high percentage holes, there’s no reason to mess around with untried baits. Out comes a #7 Rapala Jigging Rap. The classic lure is responsible for uncountable numbers of walleyes, and its effectiveness never wanes. Fish simply can’t smart up to a lure that’s so realistic in looks and deeds.

Color-wise, blue and chrome and black and chrome – long-established producers – are the real deal in clear water. Rapala’s new UV patterns get the job done in darker water. The radiant colors simply pop the brightest, and grab the attention of walleyes that are conditioned to feed more by feel and silhouette.

My jigging motion consists of a one-foot jerk followed by a brief freefall. The Jigging Rap swims a tantalizing half circle and then settles into the death zone. Walleyes have a knack for attacking on the drop, just before the Rap goes still.

Pairing with matched fishing line is important as well. For the sake of sensitivity and strength, I jig with Sufix’s new 832 ICE. It’s unmatched in sensitivity and sheds water like Gore-Tex, which is no coincidence, since the water repellant is actually in the line’s blend of materials.

Now as much as I embrace the feel of a superline, I also respect the need for intentional stretch and invisibility in a line. Consequently, I factor in an 18- to 24-inch span of Sufix fluorocarbon between the spooled line and lure. The extra tether is transparent in the water and yields just the right amount of shock absorption to properly penetrate a walleye’s maw. Connecting the two lines is a translucent, self-lubricating, and lightweight InvisaSwivel. The rotating InvisaSwivel also serves to eliminate line-twist, which unattended to, can adversely affect a Jigging Rap’s intended action.

Jigging and managing the bait and line is a 28- to 30-inch rod with a tip soft enough to let a walleye self-set before I give it the serious hurt. Stiff rods set too hard, and too abruptly, so either the lure snaps free or the fish spits out the bait on account of abnormal resistance...

I’ve beaten the morning drum to death, but for good reasons. First, it’s the best bite of the day. Secondly, the same principles apply to late-in-the-day walleyes: choose a high-percentage spot; drill just enough holes to be dangerous; operate with a Jigging Rap; and man your station well before the sun smooches the tops of the trees.

Good Morning; Good Night (continued from page 6)

SHOP ON-LINE KITSTACKLE.COM

Love to catch fi sh, or know someone who does?

A Kit’s Tackle gift certifi cate is the perfect gift for the angler that seems to have everything. Give a gift certifi cate to Kit’s Tackle and let your friends

and family start “Jiggin’ the Dream.”

use promo code: mistletoefor free holiday shipping during the month of December

Nearly 575,000 Chinook Eggs Collected from Fort Peck Reservoir MFWP

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff collected 574,229 Chinook salmon eggs this fall from adult fish that were attempting to spawn in Fort Peck Reservoir.That didn’t beat the record of 610,230 eggs collected in 2010, but it came close, said Heath Headley, the reservoir’s fisheries biologist. The number also was about double the eggs collected last year.FWP began stocking Chinook, also called king salmon, into Fort Peck Reservoir in 1983. They were introduced to offer a unique angling opportunity and to utilize the coldwater habitat, as well as to feed on a growing population of cisco -- also known as lake herring -- that inhabit the reservoir.Roughly 75 percent of the anglers that visit Fort Peck Reservoir target walleyes, but creel surveys show that Chinook salmon are the next most targeted species there -- beating out other popular fish like northern pike, smallmouth bass and lake trout. Currently, this is the only Chinook population in Montana. Headley noted that anglers will travel from as far as the Dakotas, Wyoming, and western Montana to partake in this unique fishery.Shortfalls in habitat conditions in the reservoir prevent the fish from successfully spawning on their own, so their eggs and milt must be collected and mixed manually when the adult fish congregate each fall near the Flat Lake boat ramp, the dam and the nearby marina.“We rely exclusively on an electro-fishing boat to capture the spawning adults,” Headley said. “It involves intentionally sending an electric current into the water where the fish are congregating, which stuns them and makes them easier to net. That’s proven to be most effective because it allows us to easily locate and collect a lot of salmon at once.”The salmon in Fort Peck Reservoir typically show up in shallow areas near their original release sites once water surface temperatures hit 60 degrees. Peak spawning activity doesn’t occur until surface temperatures hit about 55 degrees. After collection the eggs are disinfected, counted and placed into incubation jars or heath trays, said Wade Geraets, manager of the Fort Peck Multi-Species Hatchery...

After a month, eye pigmentation begins to develop in the live eggs. At this ‘eyed stage’ the eggs are then physically shocked before picking. This is done by siphoning eggs from their incubation vessel and striking them against the side of another container.“Infertile or undeveloped eggs are tender, and the shocking causes water to enter the ruptured egg and coagulate the egg yolk turning the egg white,” Geraets said. “These eggs are then picked out with a tool that separates the live eggs from dead eggs. The live eggs are then placed back into the incubator or heath trays until they have hatched and the young have used up their egg yolk.”....“Once the Chinook salmon have used up the nutrition found in their egg yolk, we’ll begin feeding them a processed fish food,” Geraets said. “The management goal and stocking requirements are to grow the fish to 4.5 to 4.75 inches long at the hatchery prior to releasing them into the reservoir in early June.”To help supplement the Fort Peck egg take, the facility this year received 69,000 eyed eggs from the Garrison Dam National Fish Hatchery in North Dakota. Headley said that Montana and the Dakotas are currently the only source for disease-free Chinook eggs in the Lower 48 states. That’s why the annual egg-taking effort on Fort Peck is critically important to the continued existence of a healthy fishery.“Condition of the adult salmon in Fort Peck in 2012 was excellent due to an abundance of cisco in the reservoir,” Headley said. “Males averaged 10 pounds, and females averaged 15 pounds. The largest salmon collected during the operation was 27 pounds. Younger salmon were also present, which indicates improved growth and survival over the last few years and a positive sign of things to come in the near future.”

17December 2012

900 SERIES900 SERIES

500 SERIES500 SERIES

TROPHY 175TROPHY 175

MV 1756 AW CCMV 1756 AW CC

COMPETITOR 165

SEE US SEE US AT THEAT THE

GREAT ROCKIESGREAT ROCKIESSPORT SHOWS!SPORT SHOWS!

HELENAJanuary 4, 5, 6

BILLINGSJanuary 11, 12, 13

SOUTH BAY PONTOON & ALUMACRAFT BOATS!POWERED BY

HOURS: Monday - Friday 8am-6pm • Saturday 9am-4pm

BROADWATER FORD & MARINE406.266.5207 • 800.336.2263

www.BroadwaterFord.net | www.BroadwaterPreowned.com7675 Hwy. 287 N., Townsend

Get anamazing

Deal here!

THE 2013 Ford F-150Drive a little, save a lot.

2013 F-150 Limited Super Crew

Stop by and see our selection today!

BROADWATER FORD & MARINE406.266.5207 or visit www.BroadwaterFord.net or

See us today at - 7675 HWY. 287 N., TOWNSEND


Zero In On ‘The Zoo’ BiteDownsize to microplastics for more panfish this ice season

By Scott Glorvigen

In the 1990s we discovered the benefits of downsizing to 1- to 2-pound test and using Rat Finkies and Hornets for hardwater panfish. It was incredible—we began to experienceunprecedented bites on tiny horizontal jigs while guys near us fishing minnows struggled to put fish on the ice.

But it wasn’t good enough that we were catching lots of fish. Since I have a hard time accepting that fish eat just for the sake of eating, I had to find out why we were catching so many fish.

It was odd. You’d catch a bunch, keep a few, clean them and find nothing in the stomachs. But I knew they had to be eating something. So I started cutting their bellies open, dumping the milky stomach contents into Mason jars of water to better examine the contents.

What I found were tiny, dead, translucent and white zooplankton. I’ve since learned that these minute crustaceans have names like Daphnia and copepods. Definitely explained the “empty” stomachs.

It was a mind-bender. We had no idea crappies and bluegills were eating so many of these organisms. I also noticed the tiny critters had two tiny black dots on one end – exactly like the white spikes we had been tipping our jigs with.

A light bulb went off: Here’s a predator/prey relationship. But that was only part of it.

Years later, as camera technology advanced, I submerged an HD underwater camera to capture footage of panfish bites to learn more about jigging techniques. After all, the best teacher in the world is watching fish actually respond to baits.

19December 2012

1.Offer valid from October 27, 2012 until January 3, 2013. Subject to approved installment credit with John Deere Financial, some restrictions apply so see your dealer for complete details and other fi nancing options. Manufacturer’s suggested list price. Only available at participating dealers. Offers may be canceled at any time. Taxes, freight, set up and delivery not included. Prices subject to change without notice. Attachments or mower not included. Offer not available at all locations; see your local John Deere dealer for details. 2Offer valid from October 27, 2012, until January 31, 2013. Get $500 off any 1 Series, $500 off the 3000 Series and $500 off the 4000 Series with a purchase of two or more implements. All attachments and/or implements included in the offer are John Deere - and/or Frontier-branded. Valid in the United States only. Manufacturer’s estimate of power (ISO) per 97/68/ED. John Deere’s green and yellow color scheme, the leaping deer symbol and JOHN DEERE are trademarks of Deere & Company. A0B030ECU1A5389-00000000

Full Parts & Service Departments

MISSOULA(406) 549-4171

KALISPELL(406) 752-2828

www.deere.com

Triple W Equipment

OWN THE SNOW FOR LESSWINTER’S HERE.

Isn’t it time you purchased your snow removal equipment? Stop in and see us today.

WE SELL MANY DIFFERENT JOHN DEERE PRODUCTS.

Let us help you with yours today.

As soon as I started reviewing the video the screen filled with thousands of tiny white specks moving to and fro. It was like looking at a petri dish under a microscope. Based on what I had found in crappie stomachs years prior, I could’ve guessed they’d be there, just not that many.

The camera allowed me to study how zooplankton move—and how panfish feed on them—which filled in another piece of the puzzle. I watched both bluegill and crappie responses to the colors of jigs we used. The video confirmed that white, pearlescent and glow drew more bites than pinks or chartreuses when fish were feeding on zooplankton. Simply, these colors more closely resembled the food.

Steaks Vs ShakesThe next big revelation was noticing how panfish feed.

I observed both crappies and bluegills moving through clouds of zooplankton, filtering in the tiny white organisms, which motored around in chaotic patterns.

You see, fish don’t eat zooplankton like they’re eating a steak. They have to filter it. It’s like the difference between eating a milkshake and a steak. The calorie content is about the same but they’re too very different ways of eating.

The way panfish feed on zooplankton is very refined. If they open their mouth too much the zooplankton goes through the gills and out, it doesn’t go into their stomach.

This explained the almost undetectable bites, and why a super-light jig with horizontal orientation, super light line, and the right color were keys. The fish were coming to the baits off the horizontal plane and creating a suction to draw the bait into their mouth cavity. They weren’t attacking the baits. They were filter feeding, much like a whale. Also explained why a spring bobber was essential.

This is when I realized that fishing microplastics really aggressively might work a lot better than live bait.

Top Picks For ‘The Zoo Bite’

I think a lot of guys miss out on some phenomenal fishing by not paying attention to what’s going on. The fish may be on a wide-open bite but if you’re sitting there sinking a minnow for crappies, you’re just not going to catch numbers of fish. The fish aren’t shut off or going negative; chances are they’re aggressive and eating as much zooplankton as they can get. But switch over to 1-pound test, a tiny Northland Gill-Getter, Mooska or Tungsten Fire-Ball UV Jig and there’s a good possibility that you’re going to leave the guys fishing big baits with heavier gear in the snow. One of the best jigs out there is the Gill-Getter. The head is like what you’d find on a mayfly, a wiggler or a hellgrammite but it sits very horizontal. It has the right shape and a 60-degree bend to the Mustad Ultra-Point hook. Tie to your line with a Palomar or improved clinch and it should sit perfectly horizontal. The past couple of years we’ve had huge success with all of the above ice jigs in Northland’s Slug color, which is basically white with a hint of pink. Glow White also works well. And there’s no better microplastic currently available to take full advantage of the ‘Zoo Bite’ than the Northland Impulse Micro Mayfly in Glow White.However, if the bite slows I’ll switch to a Brown Micro Mayfly on a Woodtick-colored Gill-Getter to tap fish that may be getting conditioned to my presentation. It works well with fish that are transitioning into or out of a ‘Zoo Bite’ for other forage. I’ll ice two or three fish with the dark color and then move back to the white. It’s a great switch-up tactic. Go For ItMake sure that you spend some time experimenting this winter with ‘Zoo Bite’ techniques. Don’t abandon vertical presentations and sinking minnows for crappies, or waxies and larger larvae for ‘gills, but do pay close attention to what the fish are doing, especially when you see tons of fish on your electronics, but they just won’t bite. Make sure you’re set up with a spring bobber, 1- or 2-pound test and super-small jig heads and microplastics. We’re willing to bet you’re going to discover some great panfish action in situations where you would’ve been scratching your head!

Brought to you bySay Hello To Success: Where to chase the Fish this Month

BROWNS LAKE


THE BEST FISHING BRANDS!

Stores in Bozeman, Butte, Hamilton, Helena and Missoula. Or shop online 24/7 at bobwards.comStores in Bozeman, Butte, Hamilton, Helena and Missoula. Or shop online 24/7 at bobwards.com

Browns Lake, located on Highway 200east of Missoula near Ovando, can produce big fish through the ice with not a lot of fishing pressure. Try fishing with small spoons, Swedish Pimples, Buck-Shots, and jigging with maggots, or a bit of nightcrawler bait to bring in big trout. Try differentcolors until you hit on the rightcombination. You can set up a tip-upas well and expect to catch big trout.

Dave Willman|Dreamstime

Winter fishing in Montana can be a challenge, but it can also be an outstanding time to enjoy a terrific day on the water. Snow on the mountains, mixed in with a bit of sun on a mild winter day is hard to beat. By Christmas most or ourarea waters will be iced over, and the ice huts and augers will be out. December is transition month in the West, so before setting foot on any water during the winter months, check Montana’s fishing regulations.While most rivers remain open to fishing year round, many tributary streams are closed from December 1st until the third Saturdayin May. Here are a few icefishing options.

CLEARWATER LAKESThe high lake areas like Rainey and Alva Lakes will ice over first, followed by Salmon, Seeley and Harpers Lake. For trout try Rainey, Placid,Alva or Harpers Lake. Jigging Swedish Pimples, Buck-Shots or small jigs tipped with a maggot will work on trout. Placid Lake will produce good numbers of Kokanee, which readily take a Glow Hook or a small Swedish Pimple tipped with corn or a maggot. If it’s bigger fishyou’re after, head to Salmon or

Seeley Lake for aggressive northern pike action, as some truly big fishcome through the ice here. Fish along weed beds in 4 to 14 foot depths using whole smelt or whole herring just underneath the ice. For jigging, use something colorful with a Twister Tail. If we have open water, go with lures or big Fluttering Spoons. Spearing is open for northern pike. Only hand propelled spears are legal through the ice.

SMITH LAKEThis lake, located west of Kalispell gives folks ample room to spread out. It’s not very deep, but most anglers have good success fishing above the weeds. You can catch perch in the 9 to 11 inch range with regularity, using a bright colored jig tipped with a maggot. Northern pike will hit on smelt through the ice. Most of these fish will be in the 2 to 5 pound range.

NELSON RESERVOIRThis reservoir located near Malta will start to ice up in December. Target pike, walleye, and perch with tip-ups and sucker minnows, after the ice is safe. This can be the best fishing of the year on Nelson Reservoir, as the lake hasn’t received much pressure over the last few weeks and the fish are fairly well spread out. Fish around 12 to 15 feet for walleye and a bit shallower for pike and perch. Nelson is a good ice fishing destination once the ice has formed. Look for another deep freeze in December to make the conditions just right. The fish will be very eager during the winter, and fishingshould be brisk.

FLATHEAD LAKEYou can catch lake trout from the shoreline on massive Flathead Lake this month. Find a spot with large rocks on a point. Fish can be found in shallow water from 20 feet to 80 feet now. Good fishing spots here include: Angel Point, Painted Rocks, the shoreline of Wild Horse Island, Steamboat Rock and the tip of Finley Point. Use larger spoons like Zimmer’s Country Mile Spoon, Kastmaster’s, Kamloops, or drift jig a 2 ounce Lead-A-Gator baited with cutbait. You can also hit on the Lake Superior whitefish that will bite on maggotbaited jigs and spoons. Fish off the Polson Bridge on the southwesternend of the lake for a whitefish/laker combo. The Flathead rarely freezes in December, and the fishing can be tremendous this month. The Flathead River action on whitefish should be very good this month too. You can fish the traditional hole at the Old Steel Bridge Fishing Access, or upstream at Pressentine Bar. Try using a dark green jig. Bounce it in front of the lie, and you should get action from fish in the 3 to 5 pound category. They are scrappy fighters and very good to eat.

ECHO LAKELocated eight miles north of Bigfork, this lake may not freeze up until January, so if you would like to fish open water for a while longer, you can target largemouth bass, perch,whitefish, pike, kokanee or rainbow trout here. For whitefish and rainbows fish the southeastern side of the lake. For bass and pike, fish the Deer Island area. Anglers targeting

bass may connect on jigging Rapalas, smelt for pike, SwedishPimples tipped with maggots for perch and trout, and the lake whitefish will hit on Zimmer’s Rattlesnakies.

REGULATING RESERVOIRLocated near Hauser Lake in Helena, you can expect better fishing here in December. Ice conditions will be similar to the Causeway area, and will harden up faster than larger area lakes. Kokanee and perch can be caught here using jigs tipped with a maggot or Swedish Pimples. Fishing should be solid as temperatures begin to drop and the ice is safe.

FORT PECKMassive Fort Peck will usually notice over until sometime in January if all goes as normal. Until then, you can fish for oversized walleye, lake trout, smallmouth bass and northern

21December 2012

Stores in Bozeman, Butte, Hamilton, Helena and Missoula. Or shop online 24/7 at bobwards.com

pike. Trolling crankbaits in silver colors to mimic the cisco these fish are feeding on should work well.The lake trout will be spawning in less than 20 feet of water this time of the year. Big walleye, chinook salmon, and smallmouth bass will also spawn. A bit of pre-planning, and a good buddy to share it with can make fishing Fort Peck a tonof fun. Watch for changing weather conditions as a heavy winter storm can change things in a hurry here.For current conditions, try callingClint or Deb Thomas at the Hell Creek Marina at 406-557-2345.

GEORGETOWN LAKESome of the best fishing will occur once the ice builds up on Georgetown Lake by mid-December.Most anglers will fish small jigs and Rat Finkies, Nuclear Ants and Rocker jigs tipped with maggots for kokanee trout. Fish early in the morning at Piney Point, Rainbow Point, Denton’s Point, and the Sunnyside area. It’s worth the trip toGeorgetown. The winter fishing is exceptional and the mountain scenery is stunning.

LOWER STILLWATER LAKELocated fifteen miles north of Whitefish on U.S. Highway 93, you can expect to catch some perch as well as northern pike and trout here.Try using small pink jigs tipped with maggots for perch in front of weedbeds at the lower end of the lake, especially on the north bank.For notherns, smelt dropped below the ice works well. Pike spearing is allowed. A mild fall has slowed the cooling of lakes recently, but once itdoes freeze over the fishing willbe remarkable.

ICE FISHING LOCATIONS & SPECIES TO TARGET

Trout - Brown’s Lake, Canyon Ferry, Clark Canyon, Hauser Lake, Holter Lake

Kokanee - Ashley, Georgetown, Regulating Reservoir, Lake Mary Ronan

Northern Pike - Dog Lake, Flathead River sloughs, Fort Peck, Noxon, Pine Lake, Seeley Lake

Walleye - Canyon Ferry, Fort Peck, Fresno Reservoir, Hauser Lake, Holter Lake, Nelson Reservoir, Tiber Reservoir

Perch - Fresno Reservoir, Canyon Ferry, Lake Mary Ronan, Nelson Reservoir, Nine Pipes, Tiber Reservoir

Randy Lasar caught this nice pike fi shing out of Hell Creek Marina

Upper Madison RiverThe Madison is open year-roundfrom Hebgen to Quake Lake. This area has seen a lot of calm, cloudy days recently and fish seem to be more active now. Try Wooly Bugger,Copper Johns, Pheasant Tail Nymphs or tiny eggs patterns. During the cold weather months, the trout won’t swim for a meal, so nymphing a size 18-22” midge pattern or San Juan worm should work. Late afternoons seem to be the best time to fish this water now.

THE BOAT SHOWTHE BOAT SHOWBoat Buying Event Of The Year!

Helena MT FairgroundsHelena MT FairgroundsJANUARY 25 - 26- 27, 2013JANUARY 25 - 26- 27, 2013The BEST DEALS, on the BEST BOATS,

at the Fairgrounds in Helena

Tige RZ2 Platinum

Reps on hand to answer questions!

2 GREAT BOATDEALERSTONS OF TONS OF

GREATGREAT DEALS!!!! DEALS!!!!

SEE PRODUCTS FROM THESE FINE MANUFACTURERS

TOWNSEND MARINE

MONTANA BOAT CENTER

SHOW HOURS:Friday, January 25 Noon to 8 p.m. Saturday, January 26 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, January 27 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

TOWNSEND MARINE & TOWNSEND MARINE & MONTANA BOAT CENTERMONTANA BOAT CENTER

$2.00 admission$2.00 admissionComes with aComes with a

Chance to Enter To Chance to Enter To Win Win over $1,500 inover $1,500 in

Door Prizes!Door Prizes!Children under 12 Children under 12 enter the show free.enter the show free.

Call 266-5700 or 443-6400 Call 266-5700 or 443-6400 ororVISIT WWW.MTBOATSHOW.COMVISIT WWW.MTBOATSHOW.COM


The open-water fishing season is about over for another year. While that is a bit depressing, the good news is that ice fishing is not far off! With that in mind, this is a good time to look at “what’s new” in the ice fishing world that can help us be more successful this coming season.New lures are probably the first thing people think of when the topic of “what’s new” comes to mind. It seems that some new lures quickly become “the deal” when first introduced, probably because they offer an action, profile, etc. that the fish haven’t seen before and aren’t conditioned to.Walleye anglers searching for the next hot lure may want to consider the new Macho Whistler Spoon. This lure features a Macho Minnow body, along with sound-producing beads, and a whistling prop blade. The Macho Minnow has been a hot spoon the past couple years and the added noise and vibration of the beads and prop blade offer anglers a chance to call in fish from an even wider distance. Not only are walleyes susceptible to this lure, but perch and pike anglers will probably want to take a look as well.Walleye anglers have new options, and so do panfish pursuers. The past couple years, tungsten jigs have been the rage amongst many panfish anglers. Tungsten is denser than lead, so tiny jigs that fish “heavy” are possible when made with this ingredient. Pressured, finicky panfish often prefer very small lures.Last winter, I landed some of the biggest bluegills and crappies of my ice fishing career using Mooska Tungsten Jigs. This year, the new Tungsten Fire-Ball UV Jigs will be added to my panfish tackle box. These jigs are compact, offer an ultra-fast drop through the water column, and have glow-in-the-dark UV patterns that make them very visible in deep water and during low-light fishing times.Panfish jigs made from tungsten can be fished even more efficiently with some of the new rod and reel models now on the market. Traditional spinning rod and reel combinations in ultra-light actions are used by many panfish anglers. One problem with spinning reels however, is that jigs dropped in the water often spin from line twist. This spinning motion can turn fish off, especially finicky, pressured fish.Last year, “straight lining” using non-spin reels and sensitive rods gained a great deal of popularity and appears to be the hot new technique amongst winter anglers. Frabill, one of the leading companies in ice fishing innovation, is now offering a pair of straight line rod and reel combinations designed to allow anglers to present baits without jig spin. I can’t wait to get my hands on a Straight Line 241 combo, load it with light line, and tie on a tungsten jig!Walleye anglers looking to upgrade their rod and reel combos might want to consider one of the new Team Northland Ice Rods. I used these high modulus 100% graphite rods in the medium and medium light options for jigging last winter and was impressed with their sensitivity. Pairing one of these rods with one of the new Laser Lite Speed Spin spinning reels from Lew’s will make the ultimate walleye ice jigging rod and reel. Lew’s reels are known for their quality and affordability and these new micro reels should prove to be great tools for winter anglers.New tools help those who spend time on the ice do our jobs better! If your goal is to be more successful in your job, you might want to consider some of the tools just mentioned for your 2013 ice fishing trips...

ICE ICE TIME!TIME!By Mike Frisch

«¬«¬«¬«¬«¬«¬«¬«¬««¬«¬«¬«¬«¬«¬«¬«¬«

Top ten anglers at the end of the event were: Max Martz-Stevensville-1st with 1,111 lake trout entries and a 59.2 fi fteen day average-$700. Second place went to Mike Benson of Lonepine with 981 and 50.6-$650, 3rd-Terry Krogstad-Kalispell-699 and 46.6-$600, 4th-Scott Bombard-Missoula-959 and 46.4-$550, 5th-Craig Morigeau-Polson-622 and 33.9-$500, 6th-Don Beville-Lakeside-490 and 32.6-$450, 7th & 8th-Phil Meredith-Kalispell-645 and 32.4 and Steven Benson-Four Lakes, Wa.- 531 and 32.4-$325, 9th-Tim Mooney-Missoula-452 and 27.6-$250, and 10th-Nick Fister-Kalispell-488 and 25.3-$200.

Top lady angler went to Jeanee Mooney-Missoula with 167-$300, 2nd-Julie Vacca-Florence-100-$200, 3rd-Deana Knipe-Polson-72-$100, 4th-Kim McMillie-Ronan-71-$100, and 5th-Susanne Albrecht-Polson-63-$100.

Eric Sams-Polson won the 13 & over category with 36, Brett Hereford-Missoula 2nd with 23, Cody Asbury 3rd with 5, and Tom McDonald-Niarada and Wyatt Jensen-Polson with 3 each. Garett Vaughan-Charlo-was the winner in the 12 & under with 62, 2nd-Mark Herzog-Missoula-20, Christhten Huges –Missoula came in 3rd with 16.

Glen Hoffman-Missoula won the $200 Golden Angler Award and Mel Clendenin of Polson won 2nd and $100.

Two anglers were recognized with Spirit of the Event Awards. Custom made fi llet knives were given to Scott Bombard and Mike Benson for their support and dedication to the events.

Total lake trout entries during the event came to 14,632. Five hundred fi fty anglers entered the 2012 Fall Event and two hundred forty anglers turned in fi sh during the twenty eight days of fi shing.

Bryan Gregerson-Kalispell-with thirty nine entries in the lottery drawing was a lucky winner of $1,000. Terry Krogstad-Kalispell-$1,000 -was also a top draw. Jeanee Mooney-lady angler from Missoula-won $950. Other winners of $950 were Richard Kreis-Huson and Steven Benson. Tyson Cottet-Charlo-was a $900 winner along with Max Martz-Missoula angler. There were fi fty lottery drawings that went down to $200 with several different anglers winning prizes. Go to www.mackdays.com for a list of all prize winners.

Mack Days Events are sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and are sanctioned by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. The events are used to slowly reduce the numbers of non-native lake trout in Flathead Lake.

One hundred eleven tagged lake trout were caught and anglers split $13,000 in tagged fi sh awards during the event. There were no high dollar tags caught. Top award for a tagged fi sh was $500.

Smallest lake trout awards of $250 went to Mike Benson-158mm lake trout and his brother Steve Benson for a 159mm lake trout.No large lake trout over 36” and 24 lbs. was turned in during the Fall Event which has happened several times before.

Mack Day Events are made successful by the dedicated hard working lake trout anglers who participate. We would like to thank each and every one of them. We continually work on improving the events to improve them and would appreciate any comments or suggestions sent to us.

2012 Fall Mack DaysFinalBy Cynthia Bras-Benson

2012 Fall Mack Days ended November 11th after a grueling last week of the events twenty eight days. Frigid windy winter weather set in the last six days of the fall fi shing event. Ice freezing on the boats and equipment was a concern that all anglers had to deal with. The few that continued the last few days were out in some of the coldest days on the water during any of the Mack Days Events. A total of 14,367 lake trout were entered in the event.photo mackdays.com

23December 2012

MFWP

Sportsmans Bridge Fishing Access Site on the Flathead River MFWP

SSportsmans Bridge Fishing Access Site is located on the Flathead River, 6 miles south of Kalispell on Hwy 93 to mile marker 104, then 6 miles east on Hwy 82. The Flathead River represents the combined flow of hundreds of headwater creeks funneled from the glacial cirques of Glacier National Park and other wild places within the U.S. and Canada. This cold, clear water flows into the North, South and Middle forks of the Flathead, which merge together near Columbia Falls to begin a southward journey...About 20 miles into its journey, after flowing down the gentle, south-sloping gradient of the Flathead Basin floor, the river empties into Flathead Lake. The lower mainstem Flathead River drains from the southwest corner of the lake and draws waters from an arid valley basin throughout its 75-mile course. The Flathead River finally empties into the Clark Fork River at Paradise. The Flathead River System offers hundreds of miles of pristine waterways, while Flathead Lake is a scenic and recreational mecca. A diversity of fish and wildlife complement the land and water resources, and contribute to both the natural and cultural values of the Flathead Basin environment.

Total Length: 158 miles FWP Region 1All Species Present: Black Bullhead, Brook Trout, Brown Trout, Bull Trout, Kokanee, Lake Trout, Lake Whitefish, Largemouth Bass, Largescale Sucker, Longnose Dace, Longnose Sucker, Mottled Sculpin, Mountain Whitefish, Northern Pike, Northern Pike Minnow, Peamouth, Pumpkinseed, Pygmy Whitefish, Rainbow Trout, Redside Shiner, Slimy Sculpin, Smallmouth Bass, Westslope Cutthroat Trout, Westslope X Rainbow, White Sucker, Yellow Perch

ICE TIME!


HUNTING & CONSERVATION NEWSHUNTING & CONSERVATION NEWSHunting & Conservation NewsHunting & Conservation News

Proudly Sponsored ByProudly Sponsored ByAllied WasteAllied Waste

3558 Tizer Rd, Helena across from Warren School & 4-H Community Center

Mon-Fri 9am-5:30pm (After Hours by Appt.)www.tizermeats.com

406-442-3096406-442-3096

Prime RibSeasons or unseasoned

Boned & tiedCustom order your size

SmokedTurkeys

SNAPAccepted

TIZER MEATSTIZER MEATS BEEF•PIG•RETAIL MEATS•BUNDLES•SMOKINGBEEF•PIG•RETAIL MEATS•BUNDLES•SMOKING

CURING•BACONS•HAMS•WILD GAME•SAUSAGECURING•BACONS•HAMS•WILD GAME•SAUSAGE

Mobile & CustomSlaughtering

Fully cooked, ready to eat

Fully Cooked Hams

Order Whole or 1/2

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation has helped conserve more than 2 million acres in and around the 50 counties that reign as America’s best areas for trophy mule deer. Average production of record-class muleys across these counties has trended upward since RMEF launched in 1984—and the counties showing the greatest improvements are those where RMEF has helped protect and steward the greatest amounts of habitat.“The data show a striking correlation,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “Of the Top 50 mule deer counties in Boone and Crockett records, 36 are seeing an upward or even trend in trophy buck production. In each of these counties, we’ve conserved an average of about 48,000 acres. In the 14 remaining counties that aren’t faring as well, our average project acreage is currently less than half that amount.” “We’re proud that our efforts, along with those of our state and federal agency partners as well as private landowners, are contributing to increasing quality in some of the West’s most prominent mule deer herds,” added Allen.Trophy trends were identified using Boone and Crockett records for typical and non-typical mule deer. The combined Top 50 counties were included in the research. Upward, even and downward trends were based on the number of record-book entries before and after 1984, when RMEF began its work to ensure the future of elk and other wildlife.Allen acknowledged that many factors influence mule deer herd health, recruitment of males into older age classes, sustainable harvest objectives and other elements of sound wildlife management and fair-chase hunting.“But habitat quality is a major consideration,” he said. “Our mission statement directs us to ensure a future for elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage. After elk, mule deer are perhaps the species most affected by our work, and it’s gratifying to see quality mule deer herds alongside healthy elk herds.”RMEF so far has invested more than $10 million on conservation projects in and around the Top 50 trophy mule deer counties. Funding from RMEF helped leverage additional support from partnering agencies and organizations, resulting in an overall conservation effort valued at more than $236 million. Projects include prescribe burns, treating noxious weeds, thinning overgrown forests, restoring riparian zones, constructing wildlife drinkers, conducting research, brokering land deals that protect open space and improve public access, and more...

Trophy Mule Deer and RMEF Conservation Work

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

Trophy Mule Deer and RMEF Habitat ProjectsTrophy Mule Deer and RMEF Habitat Projects RMEFRMEF

25December 2012

Basic Membership is $20.00

Join online at www.plwa.org

Public Land/Water Access Association Inc. or PLWA, is a 501(c)(3) tax deductible nonprofi t organization.

Hunters! Are you tired of seeing signs like this when you know the road is a public road and the country on the other side is public property?

Hook up with the only Montana sportsmen’sorganization aggressively fi ghting back - the

Public Land and Water Access Association

406-442-3096

TIZER MEATSBEEF•PIG•RETAIL MEATS•BUNDLES•SMOKING

CURING•BACONS•HAMS•WILD GAME•SAUSAGE

10 Reasons to Invite a Newcomer to Hunt and Shoot National Shooting Sports Foundation

...The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) reminds experienced hunters and shooters that autumn is a great time of year to invite a newcomer, whether a youth or adult, to experience the rewards of hunting and target shooting...NSSF also provides an easy, fun way to ask someone to join you on your next hunt or target shooting outing. Send a themed postcard by email from NSSF’s Invite Someone to Shoot and Invite Someone to Hunt websites...10 Reasons to Send that InvitationBuild the Base: Where will the next generation of sportsmen and women come from who will support our firearms, hunting and shooting freedoms? Of course, they will be the ones who you introduce to our sports today. Invite someone to hunt or target shoot.Top Factor: More than 90 million U.S. adults 18 and over expressed at least some interest in participating in hunting or target shooting, according to NSSF/Harris polls. The top factor in getting them to participate was an invitation from a friend or family member.Peer Power: Approximately 15 million youth who are not hunters or target shooters and are between the ages of 8 and 17 would consider giving these activities a try if asked by a peer, according to a study commissioned by the Hunting Heritage Trust and NSSF and conducted by Responsive Management...Approval: Approximately three-quarters of youth and adults approve of hunting and target shooting, so it is not surprising that people are purchasing firearms and participating in the shooting sports in records numbers.Safer Than Golf: Hunting is safer than golf and many other sporting activities, according to injury statistics. As for target shooting, accidents are extremely rare.Generosity: Educate a new hunter that he or she can donate venison to charitable food outlets to help feed those in need. Hunter donations make possible about 11 million venison meals annually.Giving Back: By purchasing firearms, ammunition and hunting licenses, sportsmen and women contribute more than $1 billion annually to protect wildlife and habitat and fund shooting range development. This funding mechanism has helped restore populations of species such as the Wild Turkey and White-tailed Deer that were struggling to survive 100 years ago.Elevate Ethics: Firearms ownership and participation in both hunting and target shooting help youth and adults develop an ethical, responsible approach toward wildlife and wild places, and toward firearms. Learn more at http://www.nssf.org/lit/EthicalHunter.pdfDid You Ever Consider? With their newfound knowledge and perspective on hunting, target shooting and firearms ownership, newcomers can respond to misinformed statements about these topics at work and social gatherings with a simple, “Did you ever consider this?”Preparedness: Self-reliance is a core American value. Whether you learn to shoot for recreation, hunting or personal and home defense, you will have gained a new and valuable skill.Learn more about the shooting sports, firearm safety, conservation and other topics mentioned here at www.nssf.org.

442-1788 1650 ASPEN ST., HELENA

[email protected]

All products backed by your full service dealer

Sales & Service

20” & under includes:*Case for saw*Extra chain*Sharpener *Wedge*Mix, bar oil*Gloves

$65.00/with saw purchase

SAW CAGE SPECIAL


LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATEDH&H CUSTOM BUILDINGS Townsend, MT.

www.handhcustombuildings.com

1-855-746-BARN

If you have something that needs put awayCALL US RIGHT AWAY!

We also sell building kitsWe also sell building kits

Free Estimates Insured

Don’t wait!Don’t wait!Winter’s Coming!Winter’s Coming!

WE BUILD “MAN CAVES”WE BUILD “MAN CAVES”

2 LOCATIONS615 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

GET YOUR GUY’S CHRISTMAS GIFTS HERE!Large selection of Gift Items

Biggest Cigar SelectionFishing Gear

Novelty Section • Stocking Stuff ersColdest Beer Around • Snacks

Regional News

Wolf Trapping SeasonsIt is that time of year again when trappers and hound hunters will be out and about in the wilds of Idaho.

People with pets should know how to release a pet that is caught in a foothold trap or neck snare. While trapping has been part of the landscape in Idaho, Fish and Game reminds hound hunters, hunters with bird dogs, and people with pets that trappers have an increased interest to be in the woods because of the wolf trapping season.

Wolf trapping rules have changed since the 2012 Big Game Seasons and Rules brochure was published. For new trapping rules please see the 2012-2013 Wolf Trapping Seasons and Rules pamphlet available at license vendors, Fish and Game offi ces and online at: http://fi shandgame.idaho.gov/public/docs/rules/wolfTrapRules.pdf.

The wolf trapping season opened Thursday, November 15 and runs through March 31 in the Panhandle zone, except for units 2 and 3; in the Lolo zone; in the Dworshak-Elk City zone, except Unit 10A; in the Selway zone; in the Middle Fork zone; and in units 19A and 25 of the McCall-Weiser Zone.

Trapping season opens February 1 through March 31 in Unit 10A of the Dworshak-Elk City Zone.

All other zones are closed to trapping.

Trappers must complete a required wolf trapping class before they can buy wolf trapping tags.

Licensed trappers may buy up to fi ve wolf trapping tags per trapping season for use in those zones with an open wolf trapping season. In addition, up to fi ve wolf hunting tags may be purchased per calendar year for hunting. Unused wolf hunting tags may be used to tag trapped wolves in wolf zones with an open trapping and hunting season. Trappers should note that bag limits are not the same for all the wolf zones.

Only three wolf trapping tags may be used in units 19A and 25 of the McCall-Weiser Zone.

Wolf tags cost $11.50 for resident hunters, and $31.75 for nonresidents.

Trapping tags are valid for the trapping season, but wolf hunting tags are valid for the calendar year.

Additional details on wolf hunting and trapping seasons and rules are available online at: http://fi shandgame.idaho.gov/public/hunt/rules/?getPage=63, and on Page 66 in the printed 2012 Big Game Seasons and Rules brochure...

Mountain lion hunting is now open in Colorado. The season runs the day after the close of the last combined deer and elk rifl e season through March 31, except for GMU 61, 62 and 70 which runs the day after the close of the last combined deer and elk rifl e season through January 31.

Hunters are required to call the 1-888-940-LION (5466) number for GMU closures prior to any hunting trip. You must check daily to make sure the unit you want to hunt is open. Units close when harvest limits are reached. Call no earlier than 5 p.m. the day before your hunting trip for a recording of closed units. If a unit is closed, you must pick a different unit. It is unlawful to hunt in a unit after it is closed.

All mountain lion hunters are required to obtain a Mountain Lion Education Certifi cate issued by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, attesting to successful completion of CPW’s Mountain Lion Education and Identifi cation Course. Hunters must carry the certifi cate while hunting lions. The written portion of the course is available as a PDF fi le (1.5MB) or from CPW offi ces.

2012 -2013 Fees For individuals over 18 and under 65, a $10 Habitat Stamp is required with the fi rst license purchase for the year (April 1 - March 31). For more information, read about the Habitat Stamp. If you are disabled, you may not need a Habitat Stamp. Resident Non-Resident $41.00 $351.00Fees include a .25 cent search & rescue fee, and a .75 cent PEAC charge.$10 Habitat Stamp will be added to 1st license purchase of the year (April 1 to March 31). Purchase online at http://wildlife.state.co.us/ShopDOW/AppsAndLi-censes/Pages/totallicensing.aspx, call 1 (800) 244-5613, or buy in person at a Colorado Parks and Wildlife service center or license agent.

For more information call (303) 297-1192, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. MST.

Mountain Lion Hunting Now Open

©Dennis Donohue|Dreamstime

27December 2012

3654 Hwy. 12 East. Helena406-449-6595

www.montanamotorsportsandmarine.com

FourTrax® Rancher® AT / FourTrax® Rancher® AT with EPS honda.com UTILITY ATVs ARE RECOMMENDED ONLY FOR RIDERS 16 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER. ATVs CAN BE HAZARDOUS TO OPERATE. FOR YOUR SAFETY, BE RESPONSIBLE. READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL. ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET, EYE PROTECTION AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING. BE CAREFUL ON DIFFICULT TERRAIN. ALL ATV RIDERS SHOULD TAKE A TRAINING COURSE (FREE FOR NEW BUYERS. ASK YOUR DEALER OR CALL ASI AT 800-887-2887). NEVER RIDE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL, ON PAVED SURFACES, ON PUBLIC ROADS, WITH PASSENGERS, OR AT EXCESSIVE SPEEDS. NO STUNT RIDING. RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT WHEN RIDING. FourTrax® and Rancher® are registered trademarks of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (12/12)

2013 FourTrax Rancher AT2013 FourTrax Rancher ATClass-leading PerformanceClass-leading Performance

2.99% fi xed APR fi nancing for up to 36 months available through Honda Financial Services for customers who qualify for super preferred credit tier. Payment example: 36 monthly payments of $29.08 for each $1000 fi nanced. Not all buyers may qualify. Higher rates apply for buyers with lower credit ratings. Check with Honda dealer for complete details. Special APR fi nance offer ends 1/2/2013. Down payment does not include tax, license and other fees.

See us for your Honda

Full Parts & Service Departments

and ask about our multiple unit sales program.

We also sell building kits Don’t wait!Winter’s Coming!

WE BUILD “MAN CAVES” Regional NewsDue to the severe drought conditions in many parts of Wyoming, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department is warning people that regardless of

winter conditions, there may be signifi cant losses to wildlife this year. Mule deer and pronghorn are already in poor condition going into fall and there is simply not much for them to eat on their winter ranges. “This is one of the worst droughts in history, and according to some individuals who have lived here their entire lives it is the worst they can remember,” says Jason Hunter, Lander Regional Wildlife Supervisor. Virtually all wild animal populations experience signifi cant and dramatic fl uctuations. People commonly make the mistake of thinking feeding mule deer is just as benefi cial as feeding other wildlife. Individuals who advocate feeding mule deer are well intentioned, but feeding mule deer can cause problems for the animals and their habitats.• Mule deer will likely still starve when fed in the winter. Mule deer are highly selective foragers, at least in part due to their specialized digestive system. Specifi c types of bacteria in their rumen are required to aid in the digestion of naturally occurring foods. Often, because their digestive system can’t adapt quickly enough, supplementally fed mule deer die with stomachs full of undigested feed. Supplemental feeding programs have been effective for other species like elk because their digestive systems are more adaptable to different kinds of forage.• Supplemental feeding may increase predation and prevalence of disease and parasites. Winter feeding programs create artifi cially high concentrations of mule deer at feeding stations or locations, creating ideal conditions for increased loss due to predation, diseases, and parasites.• Supplemental feeding can reduce the winter range’s carrying capacity. If mule deer numbers remain artifi cially high through supplemental feeding, it can result in habitat degradation where feeding occurs creating a situation where these habitats support fewer wildlife. Both proponents and opponents of winter feeding have the deer’s best interest in mind. However, even well designed and executed winter feeding programs do not signifi cantly increase mule deer survival. It’s necessary to consider the biological impacts to the habitat, to other species, and to mule deer in the long-term. We must focus on the sustainability of the mule deer population for generations to come...

Offi cials with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department say the state’s fi rst wolf hunting season is going smoothly, and that wolf harvest has been evenly distributed throughout the Wolf Trophy Game Management Area (WTGMA) and Seasonal Wolf Trophy Game Management Area (SWTGMA).

As of November 13, 34 wolves had been reported harvested in the WTGMA and SWTGMA—the total quota for these areas is 52. Three of the 12 hunt areas within the WTGMA have been closed because individual quotas in those areas have been reached. Wolf seasons in the areas that remain open will close on December 31 or when the quota for an individual area is reached. An additional 16 wolves had been reported taken in other areas of the state...Bruscino...indicated that wolf harvest has been evenly distributed throughout the WTGMA and SWTGMA with harvest in many different packs. “No one pack is bearing a disproportionate amount of the harvest,” he said.

“Wyoming’s fi rst wolf hunting season is a conservative approach to wolf management in northwest Wyoming,” said Bruscino. “It is designed to help reduce the population slightly while keeping it well above the minimum required to ensure that wolves remain off the Endangered Species list in Wyoming.

The WGFD is also mounting an aggressive monitoring program, which includes capturing and collaring wolves, to ensure accurate estimates of Wyoming’s wolf population and genetic interchange among wolves in the Northern Rocky Mountain region.

WGFD Offi cials Say Wolf Hunt is Going Smoothly


Thursday - February 7, 2013 5:30pm

The HelenaPheasants Forever

Annual Banquet

You’re Invited to Attend

Buffet Dinner, Games, Raffles, Silent Auction, Live Auction, Wildlife Art, Hunting, Fishing, Camping Gear

A Fun Night Out!

GATEWAY CENTERGATEWAY CENTER 1710 National, Helena1710 National, Helena

CALL 406-431-1525CALL 406-431-1525 For information or to register

Register byJanuary 29th to be entered in

The Early Bird Drawing3 CASH PRIZES!

$75 $50 $25

January 15 Is The New Deadline For Pheasant Release Applications MFWP

©Kelly Nelson|Dreamstime

When temperatures drop below freezing, my thoughts generally turn to ice fi shing. My wife’s thoughts on the other hand, turn to ways to keep me from testing the newly-formed surface of local waters. And as we usually do in our marriage, we have reached a nice compromise on this issue. In the days between Thanksgiving and the weekend where I get the go-ahead from her to walk on water, she okays my forays afi eld after late-season roosters.

While the hunts are often the most memorable of the year, and the most enjoyable for me, the challenges of winter pheasant hunting are numerous. There’s quite a few less roosters after two months of open season and those that do remain are very spooky. The slightest noise – a truck door closing or a voice command – can send birds from their cover 100 yards away. On top of that, pheasants are generally bunched up tighter in the late season, and as soon as one takes fl ight, the rest aren’t far behind. I’ve watched several dozen birds at a distance explode from the cattails one after another as soon as one detects the crunching of snow some distance off.The weather provides a test of a hunter’s mettle too. Snow, ice and wind all factor into the layers added on to keep warm during the hunt, and those layers in turn subtly change shot mechanics. The butt of a shotgun might not fi nd the familiar crook on a jacketed shoulder that it did over the sweatshirts and maybe even t-shirts a few weeks ago. Gloved hands might not grip the trigger area in the same manner, slightly altering the shooting angle one might have been used to for the past few months. To fi nd late-season success, one needs to adapt to these changes.

But the change that winter brings isn’t all bad as factors come into play that even the playing fi eld somewhat. The cold weather keeps the would-be hunters safe and warm at home, or circling your favorite chunk of CRP in their pickup trucks instead of actually walking out into it to face the elements. More of your favorite management area might be accessible too, thanks to a hard freeze which locks up a previously-soaked slough in ice, allowing you (and the birds) more room to roam. Just make sure to avoid any weak spots, or you might end up with a chilly ankle bath.Another advantage that winter brings to the late-season hunter is the ability to track pheasants in the snow. Their tell-tale four-toed print which points in the direction they’re heading shows you what your dog has smelled for months – that pheasantsmove in the most unorthodox manner. They duck under branches, loop around clumps of grass, tear through cattails and take off and land with their wings and tails hitting the ground, leaving a distinct impression that lets you know where the pursuit ends and where it begins again.

Since the weather has gotten colder this year, I’ve noticed that my yellow lab, Gunnar, has had an inordinate number of points. He’s probably pointed at a three-to-one ratio the number of roosters we’ve come across, as opposed to those birds that would have normally fl ushed in the early weeks of the season. The late season birds that don’t take off at the slightest hint of trouble seem to hold tighter, providing an exciting explosion of grass, snow and feathers that has left me rattled – missing more pointed birds than I care to admit!

Bagging one winter rooster is a victory, and taking your limit is really something to be proud of in December. Adjusting to the elements and reading the signs on the ground with the help of your trusted four-legged interpreter can produce exciting results...

Late Season Compromise

http://www.nodakoutdoors.com/late-season-compromise.php

By Nick Simonson

View Photos View Photos & Videos& Videos

shocoranch.comshocoranch.com

406-562-3553406-562-3553 email: [email protected]

BOOK A CABIN BOOK A CABIN ON THE RANCH ON THE RANCH

or our or our LODGE in Augusta LODGE in Augusta

that Sleeps 10 that Sleeps 10 ReillyReillyGerman Shorthair PointerGerman Shorthair Pointer

HUNT PHEASANTS & CHUKARS HUNT PHEASANTS & CHUKARS NOW Through MARCH!NOW Through MARCH!

SSHOCO RANCHHOCO RANCH

Puppies available Puppies available this springthis spring Montana bird huntingMontana bird hunting

Montana landowners interested in raising and releasing ring-necked pheasants next year have until January 15, 2013 to submit an application to the state wildlife agency. This new application deadline is among several recommendations made by a citizens’ advisory council and now a part of Montana’s Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program’s strategic plan. “The new deadline is aimed at improving the fl ow of program logistics,” noted Debbie Hohler, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks’ UGBEP’s program biologist. “Once the release sites are evaluated by wildlife biologists, FWP can authorize the number of pheasants for release at a time that coincides with when pheasant raisers are ordering their chicks.”

Under FWP’s Upland Game Bird Release Program, landowners who attempt to establish pheasant populations in suitable habitat can be reimbursed for raising and releasing pheasants. Landowners may apply annually for up to fi ve consecutive years to establish pheasants. Projects must comprise at least 100 contiguous acres of land and contain a combination of habitat components—including cover and food—that upland game birds need to survive.

Lands enrolled in the pheasant release program must allow free public access to hunt upland game birds during the season the releases take place.Mail applications by Jan. 15, 2013 to: FWP–Wildlife Bureau, Attn: UGBEP Pheasant Releases, P.O. Box 200701, Helena, MT 59620-0701Program pheasants are usually released between Aug. 1 and Sept. 15.Hunting preserves, lands that host a commercial hunting enterprise and lands where hunting rights are leased or paid for are not eligible.

For more information, and an on-line application form, visit FWP’s website at fwp.mt.gov—search “Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program,” or contact Debbie Hohler at: 406-444-5674, or by e-mail: [email protected].

29December 2012

View Photos & Videos

shocoranch.com

406-562-3553

BOOK A CABIN ON THE RANCH

or our LODGE in Augusta

that Sleeps 10 ReillyGerman Shorthair Pointer

HUNT PHEASANTS & CHUKARS NOW Through MARCH!

SHOCO RANCH

Puppies available this spring Montana bird hunting

Be it a bull or a buck it is always twice the enjoyment to be able to hunt two or more states each year.

We are so fortunate living in Montana; we are the place that eastern hunters call “a destination.” A place they would like to hunt in their lifetime, “Out West.” We take it for granted what we have here in Montana, and if that isn’t enough, a short drive and we can be out west in a different state.

In my case, I would enjoy shooting more than one bull or buck deer or antelope. Possibly spend a couple of days wearing out South Dakota’s pheasant population, since it is the number one pheasant state in the US, and it is just out of the state’s eastern back door. Or Colorado has almost 300,000 elk. I wouldn’t believe they would miss one if I took it out of one of those easy to access elk hot spots.

Wyoming with it being the state with more antelope than people, speaks for itself for antelope.

What about Nebraska where a buck mule deer, whitetail deer license is less than $10 for my son, and the buck license for me is only $200 for a non-resident. North Dakota and the east half of South Dakota are archery only for deer for non-residents. From this, there is a pearl hiding. Western South Dakota is non-resident friendly. They will allow us to hunt deer and antelope with a rifle. In eastern South Dakota you can hunt federal waterfowl if you draw a $100 limited days waterfowl permit.

North Dakota is what I call a “not a non-resident friendly state” for non-resident deer hunting. Statewide non-residents cannot use a rifle to hunt deer. The regulations seem friendly, and will let you apply; you just don’t draw a rifle tag.

Iowa is the number 1 or 2 state in the nation every year for providing the most record book Pope & Young, plus some Boone and Crockett whitetail deer in the record book. It is not uncommon to require up to 3 points to draw a license. The month of November (when the whitetail rut is on), is the archery season, which makes archers very successful. They also have an “unlimited” muzzleloader season, and two shotgun seasons. Notice there is no rifle season in Iowa so the long range weapon is specialized muzzleloaders.

Idaho is much better, close and much like Montana in hunting terrain, just steeper. The wolves are there, but the hunting is good. Just be certain that where you hunt the wolves don’t have it on their weekly route and it will be fine. Idaho is a great state to hunt with multiple drawing options.

Do all of these different regulations by state sound confusing? It can be, so the best plan is to begin early and research which animal and which state provides the best hunting for what you are after, and go from there. This will also help with the states that use the preference point system, because you will need to build them or buy an expensive landowner voucher if you don’t do some preplanning. The only one that doesn’t, and has over the counter licenses is Nebraska but they are limited. (continued page 42)

Start Planning Start Planning & Applying& ApplyingFor Out-Of-State For Out-Of-State Tags NowTags Now By Jim Neiberger

3242 Centennial St. Helena (406) 457-0700www.autoconceptshelena.com

Owner, Todd Sullivan has been customizing vehicles for over Owner, Todd Sullivan has been customizing vehicles for over 20 years and has received national awards for his graphics. 20 years and has received national awards for his graphics.

Leer Truck Caps and Tonneaus • Scorpion Spray On Bedliners3M Window Tint and Clear Hood Protection

(Helena’s Only 3M Dealer)Crystal Fusion (Glass Protection) • Paint Chip Repair

Car Stereo/Electronic Department Truck and Car Accessories • Full Service Detail Shop

Custom Graphics • Full Service Sign Shop

We specialize in We specialize in custom illustrated, custom illustrated,

one-of-a-kind graphics.one-of-a-kind graphics.

WINDOW TINTING DONE RIGHT HERE

Air Filters, Air Intakes, Tuners, Superchips & Exhausts

Heavy Duty Floor Mats, Seat Covers, Bed Liners, Cargo Mats,Tonneau Covers, Toppers, Grill Guards, Hoodshields, & More

GIFT CERTIFICATES

Winches, Spacers, Lift Kits, Spring Systems, Levelers, Shocks

Don’t See What You Want. Call us.

Let them choose their ownwith one of our

Christmas GiftsThey’ll LovePerformance parts

& Custom Accessories


©Twildlife|Dreamstime

Late Season Archery Opportunities inHD 212, 260, 290, 309 and 630

There are still hunting opportunities here in December to fi ll your general deer or elk tag. Several hunting districts allow late archery hunts. Here are some of the late season district options.

HD UNIT 212 - NORTH FLINT RIDGEDeer - Either sex mule deer. Archery only. Either sex whitetail. Archery only.Elk - Brow-tined bull or antlerless elk. Archery only. Prison Ranch Archery only area open through January 1, 2013.There is a large amount of good country to huntin this district, and it’s one of the best optionsto fi ll a late season tag.

HD UNIT 260 - BITTERROOT - CLARK FORK ARCHERY DISTRICTDeer - Either sex whitetail. Archery only.Elk - Brow-tined bulls or antlerless elk. Archery only.Not valid on Lee Metcalf Refuge.Open through January 15th, 2013.

Mostly private land. Access is diffi cult. You may have to knock on a few doors, but there are plenty of deer in theriver bottom areas.

HD UNIT 290 - HELMVILLE - OVANDO ARCHERY DISTRICTDeer -Antlered buck whitetail deer. Archery only.Either sex mule deer. Archery only.Open through December 15, 2012.Elk - Brow-tined bull or antlerless elk. Archery only.Open through January 1, 2013.

You’ll have a very good chance to fi ll a tag in this area. There are plenty of whitetail and elk in these hills. (continued page 45)

LATE SEASON ARCHERY Opportunities Are StillAvailable By Rick Haggerty

ARCHERYHUNTERSCAN STILLFILL A TAG IN DECEMBER

31December 2012

LINCOLNPART PARADISE, PART WILDERNESS

Nestled in 2 acres of ponderosa pineLarge, modern rooms • KitchenettesCoffee pot, microwave, refrigeratorsHot tub and sauna • Internet availableReasonable rates • AAA rated

LEEPER’S PONDEROSA MOTEL

110 1st Avenue, Lincoln, MT.(406) 362-4333

Pets welcome

The heart of hunting, fi shing & snowmobiling

Game Check Stations Play An Important Role MFWP

Offi cials at game check stations gather information needed to help manage the state’s wildlife resources. When hunters stop at check stations, FWP representatives ask a variety of questions that may include how many deer, elk or antelope they saw and in which drainages or where in general they hunted. The information is cost-effective to gather and helpful in managing wildlife.In 2010, FWP Region 1 began a check station-based moose study. FWP check station personnel asked hunters who had spotted moose to mark the location of the sightings on a U.S. Forest Service district map and provide any additional informationthey might have such as the sex, and estimated age of the moose.The tabulated results show hunter moose sightings in 18 hunting districts, including the two that FWP annually surveys by helicopter for moose.“The hunter survey results were very interesting and exceeded the number of moose bulls, cows and calves observable by helicopter, even given that some moose may have been reported by multiple hunters,” said John Vore, a FWP biologist in Kalispell who compiled the results. “We will continue to gather these hunter reports at the check stations until we can get a feel for the relationship between hunter moose sightings and the annual surveys.”Vore explained that an alternative source of information helps biologists verify trends, or if there is an obvious confl ict it points out something that should be investigated further.In addition to gathering biological information, FWP game wardens, biologists and other department personnel can also provide hunters with useful information and updates on the hunting season. They will also check to make sure that any animals taken are properly tagged and that all other laws and regulations governing the taking of that animal were observed. State law requires hunters to stop at all game and biological check stations on their routes of travel to and from hunting areas, whether they have harvested an animal or not. Failure to stop at a check station when personnel are on duty is a misdemeanor punishable by a fi ne.This fall, thousands of hunters will spend a few minutes sharing information about the hunting season and enjoy the knowledge that they are contributing to big game management in Montana.

MFWP


33December 2012

Bob Ward & Sons New Gear Review

Protect Yourself From Knee Injuries with KNEEBINDINGS... Each year, 70,000 skiers injure an ACL on all other alpine bindings. Ordinary bindings release up at the heel and sideways at the toe. KneeBindings have a 3rd dimension, a PureLateral™ heel release to detect the forces that cause most knee injuries, and that can release directly sideways before the injury occurs. For men: The world’s only carbon-fi ber binding blends industrial resins with hi-tech carbon fi bers to increase strength and rigidity. This makes the coupling even tighter and stiffer, providing more feedback to the skier and more precise transmission of energy to the ski. Totally cool in Carbon Black and Vector Red.

Women are even more at risk of knee injuries than men! The Mist binding offers a safer, high-performance experience, confi gured with the optimal fore-aft stance for women. The Mist places you slightly moreupright (less forward lean), in a more athletic position. In cloud white, black, and silver. Just right!

Shown:Men’s Carbon “This new binding

releases when standard bindings [can’t or won’t]!”Skiing magazine

Vortex Crossfi re

Binoculars

Stay Warm & Dry with Frabill’s Trekker Max Ice Shelter

Frabill has been producing quality fi shing gear since 1938, and they don’t disappoint with their Trekker Max Ice Shelter that fi shes 2 anglers plus gear. Like a premium fi shing boat, the fully enclosed hardtop features customized storage compartments - a rod locker, center console and bulk storage - for your essential gear. When old man winter rears his ugly head, take cover inside your portable shelter and continue fi shing. The MAX Series of shelters offers the ultimate ice fi shing

platform, plus protection from the elements.

and the Crossfi res put a big, fat honkin’ star next to “The best choice for the money”. Tripod adaptable for steady viewing and the ultra-comfortable Vortex neck strap? Okay, let’s make that two stars.

Purchase these and other fi ne products at one of the 5 Bob Ward & Sonsstores near you in Bozeman, Butte, Hamilton, Helena, or Missoula, orshop 24/7 at bobwards.com

TOP QUALITY AT A LOW PRICEThese days, getting more than you pay for is a good thing. And, simply put, the Crossfi re is not just a good value, but a big performer as well. Feature for feature, you just won’t fi nd what the Crossfi re has to offer on similarly priced, full- or mid-sized binoculars. In fact, the fully multi-coated optics deliver performance that most assume is only available in binos costing twice as much. Not so. Add in full waterproof/fogproof protection, twist-up eyecups and the rubber armored chassis,


Wild Game Processing and Sausage Kitchen •Completely cleaned before processing.

•Cut and wrapped to YOUR specifi cations. •Your meat kept separate.

•Prices based on hanging weight. •See our website for current pricing.

For Over 33 Years

Open Mon. - Sat.9am - 6pm

PREMIERE WILD GAME PROCESSING

WESTERN MEAT & SAUSAGE BLOCKPhone (406) 494-4319

800 Dewey Boulevard - Butte, MT 59701visit www.westernmeatblock.com

More and more hunters are coming out of the trees and pursuing their game from eye level. That’s because hunting from a blind has so many advantages over tree stands. Portable hub-style blinds like my Barronett go anywhere, set up quickly and quietly, and provide unmatched concealment. They also block the wind and rain and allow you to hunt in total comfort. The result... you’ll hunt longer and improve your odds for success. Here’s a quick rundown of blind-hunting tips that will help you make the most of this season...

WHICH BLIND? Choosing the perfect blind for your hunt is very important. There are basically two styles of fully-enclosed blinds: frame-style and hub-style. In my opinion, nothing beats a hub blind, because the hub system pushes the fabric as tight as a drum to eliminate wind flap and unwanted movement. Hub blinds also give you more interior room since the hubs bow outward. There are many manufacturers of high-quality hub blinds, and each offers unique window configurations. I really like the way Barronett [BarronettBlinds.com] has laid out their window design for concealment and customization for different shooting scenarios.PROPER PLACEMENT Success absolutely depends upon where you place your blind. Naturally, for big game hunting, you want to set up downwind of travel routes and at the distance you want for your shot. For bowhunting, 20-25 yards from a trail is a perfect distance. Whenever possible, position the blind within existing cover and avoid “skylining” the blind on a hilltop or ridge.PREPARATION When you’ve determined the perfect spot, clear away all debris where the blind will sit. With all sticks, leaves, crunchy snow, etc. out of the blind, there’s no way to inadvertently snap a twig or make a sound when maneuvering inside. Another preparation includes spraying the blind, inside and out, with Scent-Away spray to neutralize odors. To enhance concealment, Barronett includes brush straps that allow you to affix nearby brush, branches, etc. to add a natural, 3-D effect to your set-up. Once inside the blind, set up your gear (bow, rattling antlers, calls, food/water, etc.) in an organized way so everything is within easy reach, yet out of the way when the moment of truth comes for a shot.ROOM WITH A VIEW Arrange your shooting and viewing windows thoughtfully. Many hunters make the mistake of opening every window. This lets in a lot of light and silhouettes you inside the blind. The best approach is to open only the windows you could conceivably shoot through, and keep everything else closed. This creates a “dark-house” effect to cloak you in shadows.DRESS DARK With the dark-house effect achieved, the optimal clothing to wear inside the blind is a black shirt or jacket, along with a black face mask and black gloves. The inside of my Barronett blind has a matte black finish – so by wearing black myself it literally makes me disappear inside the dark blind. You can get away with a lot more movement if your dressed dark.PRACTICE SHOOTING Most bowhunters practice shooting from a standing position. That’s great, and necessary. But when you’re hunting from a ground blind, your shots are usually taken from a seated or kneeling position. So be sure and practice that way! And actually practice from INSIDE your blind, so you’re used to the act of shooting through a small window opening. It might seem like a hassle, but if you practice shooting from your blind you’ll be glad you did when that buck-of-a-lifetime steps in front of your window!S-L-O-W... As with all kinds of hunting, move like a predator when you’re blind hunting. Keep your movements smooth and slow, whether you’re reaching for your bow or just raising your binoculars to do some glassing. All big game animals are totally in-tune with spotting movement. Always ASSUME there’s a set of eyes on you at all times, even when you see nothing, and move with total stealth.

I hope these fundamental ground blind hunting tips are helpful to you. And if you haven’t done it already, pick yourself up a good hub blind and get out there at ground level with those deer. It’s effective, exhilarating and a great way to bowhunt! Good Hunting!Babe Winkelman is a nationally-known outdoorsman who has taught people to fish and hunt for nearly 30 years. Watch his award-winning “Good Fishing” and “Outdoor Secrets” television shows on Versus (VS.), Fox Sports Net and many local networks. Visit www.winkelman.com for air times where you live.

TIPS FOR TIPS FOR SSUCCESSFULUCCESSFUL GGROUND BLINDROUND BLIND BBOWHUNTINGOWHUNTING

By Babe Winkelman

Aaron Danielle

In The

Enter Your HUNTING PHOTO 2012 HUNTING PHOTO CONTEST

You Could WIN a Prize From One of These

SPONSORS

Email photos to: huntingfi [email protected] mail to: 8591 Capri Drive, Helena, Mt. 59602

Contest ends December 15th, 2012 - 1:00 pmAll entries become the property of the Hunting & Fishing News to use or not at their discretion.

Photos submitted by mail will not be returned.

35December 2012

RMEF Launches Revamped Website RMEF

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation launched a completely revised website at www.rmef.org that offers new features, easier access and up-to-date information on elk, conservation efforts, habitat enhancement projects, and hunting-related issues. “This website is the elk authority on the Internet. It provides the best source of everything you need to know about elk, elk country, and elk hunting anywhere.” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO...

New or enhanced features of the site include the Hunt Planner, an interactive map that shows current or historic elk range; current weather conditions; the latest state hunting rules, regulations and license information; and the locations of hunting districts. RMEF members can create and save more detailed maps that highlight public and private land boundaries. Other new improvements include a predator management and control section with updated nationwide news on wolves, lions, bears and other predators; and a news ticker that tracks conservation, habitat, hunting and other elk-related issues as reported by outlets around the country.

The site also features membership and donor information; the latest on RMEF conservation efforts, hunting heritage programs and scholarship opportunities; media coverage about RMEF; the latest on state and chapter events for members and volunteers; elk biology; and offers transparency and accountability by opening the books on the organization’s fi nancial operations. RMEF members will also be able to access the entire issue of Bugle magazine online. The site will include additional content and new features such as a legislative ticker in the months to come. “As we, as an organization, work to further our mission of enhancing the future of elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage, our new website helps us better inform our constituents worldwide exactly how we’re doing that,” said Allen.

A new year, a new venue, and new features highlight Elk Camp 2013 when the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation transforms the Las Vegas strip into the Elk Hunting Capital of the World. RMEF’s annual expo and convention is set for February 28 - March 3 at the Mirage and the Las Vegas Convention Center.“We are excited to return to Las Vegas and build on the progress and enthusiasm from a year ago,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “We have plenty of accomplishments from 2012 to officially recognize, including one that is a real game changer for us. And hosting Elk Camp at the Mirage gives us the opportunity to celebrate elk and habitat conservation in ways greater than ever before.” RMEF relied on the excitement and energy of past Elk Camps over the last 28 years to incrementally set the stage for renewed efforts to better carry out a mission of enhancing elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage.“We can’t wait to get to Vegas to be with our members and volunteers from across the country,” added Allen. “The synergy and support we will generate together from Elk Camp 2013 is vital to propel RMEF toward another year of success in achieving our conservation goals.”In 2012, since its inaugural Elk Camp in Las Vegas earlier that year, RMEF helped permanently protect and enhance thousands of acres of habitat, bolstered elk populations east of the Mississippi River, contributed funding toward predator-ungulate research, supported wolf hunts in six states, applauded the increasing numbers of hunters nationwide and the delisting of wolves in Wyoming, received several conservation awards, and introduced thousands of youth to hunting and conservation.

For more visit www.rmef.org

Bigger, Better Elk Camp 2013 COMING TO NEW VENUE RMEF


For a bird believed to be extinct 50 years ago, the Canada goose is doing very well, thank you...

As for hunters—well, hunters still love them. In recent years US sportsmen have harvested about 2 million Canada geese annually. That’s more than any other goose species, including the dangerously over-populated snow goose that are hunted in spring.

For the record, there are so many sub-species of Canada geese that even scientists can’t agree on how many, and only the giant sub-species was thought to be extinct prior to the discovery of a small resident fl ock in Minnesota. And—yes—the birds are known as Canada geese, not “Canadian geese.”

You’d think a bird that nests in city parks, makes daily hikes across golf courses and hangs around airports would be easy to hunt. Sometimes they are. Mostly they’re not.

Amazingly, the seemingly domesticated bird that will eat popcorn and potato chips from the hands of strangers in town can be as wary as a mallard when it heads out to feed. When it comes to hunting Canada geese, the old expression “wild goose chase” still applies. Here are a few tips for hunting America’s most popular goose.Scouting tips the odds in the hunter’s favor. Sportsmen who can locate a fi eld where the geese are feeding undisturbed at night know there’s a pretty good chance the birds will be back the following morning.

Decoy spreads don’t have to be elaborate. A dozen to two dozen magnums are all it takes to attract a family group of honkers. Full-bodied decoys are great, but shells get the job done. Wind socks work well if there’s enough breeze to keep them moving. Two or three big socks add a lifelike dimension to any decoy spread.

When scouting, observe feeding geese. The fi rst thing hunters will notice is that when the birds are tightly bunched with their heads up, they are usually alarmed and probably about to take fl ight. For that reason it’s a good idea to keep some space between decoys and to use mostly feeder heads, placing a sentry or two on the outside perimeter of the spread.

Hunters have different opinions about calling Canada geese. I’ve met experienced hunters who refuse to use a call, period; others insist on calling until their cheeks are about to burst.

I believe the best approach is to call only in response to incoming birds. When a group of geese is on a bee-line to your decoys and not saying anything, it’s best not to do any talking. If the lead goose lets out a single “hawruuunk” a single response is appropriate. Gear your calling to what the birds are saying—nothing more and nothing less. Waterfowl calling is something of an art, but calling geese doesn’t require the skill or range of vocalizations necessary to attract ducks. Under most situations, a simple two-note call will get the job done when geese are showing an interest in your decoys. Callers will want to be more animated when trying to get the attention of disinterested geese off in the distance. Don’t worry about foul notes when the geese are on the horizon, just make a lot of noise.

Flagging is another attention-getting gimmick that sometimes brings geese from great distances. Flagging requires two black pieces of cloth attached to dowels or laths. Flags waved overhead resemble wings from a distance. Start by waving the fl ags aggressively on outstretched arms. If the birds respond, lower your arms waist-high. The closer the birds get, the lower and slower you should fl ag until fi nally the fl ags are dropped completely.

For concealment, use whatever nature provides and choose a suitable camo pattern that matches the conditions. I like to wear my Underbrush leafy camo for geese, since it does such a great job of breaking up the human silhouette. Dressing in black and sitting amongst the decoys can also be effective. If there’s snow on the ground, dress in white coveralls and sit next to the decoys. With Canadas, it’s even possible to hide along a weedy fenceline or in a rock pile. Some hunters just hide under a super-magnum decoy shell.

Even when you do everything right, there will be days when the birds just won’t decoy. But that, friends, is why they call it hunting. Good Hunting.

honk if you love goose hunting By Babe Winkelman

Unique Writing Instruments for the Outdoor Enthusiast Hawk Assoc.Everyone who writes uses a pen, but if you are an outdoor, hunting, or shooting enthusiast you might be looking for a writing instrument that really refl ects your lifestyle.

Write Stuff of AZ has what you have been looking for with a unique style, comfort, class and quality at a reasonable price.

Starting with the popular .30 and .50 caliber and shotgun shell pens, Write Stuff offers its incredible looking Collector Quality line of pens that also include a variety of wood, camoufl age patterns, and deer and elk antlers. The best selling .30 Caliber Pens are available in fi nishes that include 24k gold, chrome or gun metal gray and feature a rose gold tip that emulates a bullet’s copper jacket. A scoped rifl e or deer head clip add distinctive authenticity to the pen.

Write Stuff of AZ owner Sonya Mooney noted: “What sets my business apart from others is that, besides each pen being meticulously, personally, and individually hand crafted – not mass produced, the quality, variety, options and services I offer are second to none. My prices are reasonable and if you don’t see what you want in my current collection and want something really unique, I do custom work, again, at a reasonable price. What I have done is put beauty and quality into the product and the fl exibility back into the customer’s hands so you get exactly what you want in a one-stop-shop scenario.”

Write Stuff of AZ offers Fountain, Rollerball and Ball Point pens in Click, Bolt Action and Twist models as single or sets. All pens are engravable for further personalization, and a wide variety of gift boxes are available - also engravable. Every pen takes standard refi lls available at offi ce supply stores nationwide.For more please go to: www.WriteStuffofAZ.com

37December 2012

EU1000i GeneratorFEATURES:•Ideal for TV, lights, fans, small power tools and more •1000 watts, 120V •Super quiet •Less than 29 lbs!! •Fuel efficient - up to 8.3 hrs on 0.6 gal of gas •Inverter - stable power for computers and more

www.honda.com

Read the owner’s manual before operating Honda Power Equipment. Connection of a generator to house power requires a transfer device to avoid possible injury to power company personnel. Consult a qualifi ed electrician. Not all dealers carry all products.Consult your local Yellow Pages. © 2012 American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

MissoulaTRIPLE W EQUIPMENT

8571 Running W. Road(406) 549-4171

triplewequipment.com

KalispellTRIPLE W EQUIPMENT

3145 Hwy 93 S.(406) 752-2828

triplewequipment.com

LewistownLEWISTOWN HONDA

302 Truck Bypass(406) 538-9435

lewistownhonda.com

HelenaONE WAY MARINE & MOTOR SPORTS, INC.

3186 Hwy. 12 E.(406) 443-7373

onewaymarine.com

BillingsBILLINGS CONSTRUCTION SUPPLY

5514 King Avenue, East(406) 248-8355

billingsconstructionsupply.com

Get Your Honda Generator Today At One Of

These Fine Dealers!

EU3000iS GeneratorFEATURES: •Power for your furnace, fridge, microwave, most 13,500 BTU RV AC units, and more •3000 watts, 120V •Super quiet •Convenient electric start •Fuel efficient - up to 20 hrs on 3.4 gals of gas•Inverter - stable power for computers and more

BillingsMONTANA HONDA & MARINE

2124 Goodman Road(406) 248-8261

montanahondaandmarine.com

EB3000c GeneratorFEATURES:•3000 watts, 120V•Lightweight - only 71 lbs.•Honda commercial OHV engine•Exclusive CycloConverter technology•Full GFCI protectionRated #1 by construction yearafter year. An independent survey of construction and industrial users has rated Honda the #1 generator 7 years in a row. Why? Our legendary reputation for performance, durability, and reliability.

PLAY HOME WORKPLAY HOME WORK

Honda GeneratorsPower you

can rely on.

AUTOMATIC POWER MANAGEMENT MADE EASYDon’t want to mess with turning things on and off? Opt for an HP2S system.Honda’s HP2S system makes power management automatic. The transfer switch can automatically adjust your power needs so you never have to worry about overloading the generator. In fact, the HP2S system increases your generator’s effi ciency by 20 to 50% - just from effective use of power management. Ask one of the Honda Generator Dealers listed below about a HP2S system today.

Take the emergency out of emergency power. Purchase a Honda Generator today.

You’ll be glad you did.


Triple W EquipmentMissoula 406-549-4171 • Kalispell 406-752-2828

Put a Under Your TreeThis Year.

Over 100+

chainsaws in stock!

Prime Time For COYOTES

You can up your odds with the proper gear to bring more coyotes in for a shot. Early in the morning you can find coyotes near open fields, normally feeding on small game such as mice, rabbits and birds.

Try setting up on a small bluff with good visibility and using a distress call to lure in a curious coyote.

Wounded jackrabbit or cottontail distress calls work well. Hunt with a hunting partner if you can. One of you can be the caller and the other can be the shooter.

It is essential to use good camo to blend into the countryside, and to not make any sudden movements that will get you busted. Coyotes are very smart, and will not let you shoot them easily; any sudden movement and they are gone.

Hunt the same areas you’ve been hunting that have deer, and you’ll find the coyotes. You can often gain access from landowners that want to thin out any predators on their property. Start with landowners that are enrolled in the Block Management Program. There are many areas around the state enrolled in the Block Management Program, and many of these areas are open into December for hunting, Another area to target is ranches that you know have large numbers of deer in the area. Contact the owner or land manager to see if you can hunt varmints. You might strike up a relationshipthat allows you to hunt for deer or elk in the fall. These spots that normally have high populations of deer will also have good numbers of coyotes. Look for song dogs in pasture lands that have cattle or sheep, and set-up your hunt nearby. Start early in the morning calling and glassing. If you do not find coyotes within the first half hour of your hunt, pick up and relocate to another spot, covering as much area as possible.

River bottoms are also choice places to hunt. Coyotes like to hunt where there are opportunities for food and areas along the rivers and creeks hold scads of small game and rodents. Look for good hunting around areas on the Hi-line around Great Falls, Havre, Glasgow, Jordan and Scobey. Fair amounts of BLM land exists between private property here. These are all choice areas to call in coyotes.

Keep your hunting mode on through the winter. You’ll have plenty of fun, sharpen your hunting skills and help our deer herds rebound faster by taking out a few coyotes.

Good hunting.

Don’t put your rifles away just yet. December is one of the best times of the year to go out predator hunting in Montana.There are reports of heavy coyote numbers all across the state.

Coyote numbers need to be thinned a bit to help our suffering deer herds rebound.

On a recent deer hunt into the Missouri River area in north central Montana, my hunting partner and I saw 10 different coyotes inthree days. We were able to kill only one. These predators are very cagey and know when to leave the area in a hurry. Most coyote hunters are opportunists, shooting these critters when they spot them from rural roads.

Matt Fry of Helena with his recent coyote taken in north central Montana

By Rick Haggerty

NON-TYPICAL TAXIDERMY STUDIOBIG GAMEBIG GAME

FISHFISHSKULL MOUNTSSKULL MOUNTS

LIC# 130468081236LIC# 130468081236FOR MORE INFORMATION FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: FORREST FAWTHROP CONTACT: FORREST FAWTHROP

Quality Quality TaxidermyTaxidermy

at an affordable at an affordable price!price!

(406) 459-5352 (406) 459-5352

39December 2012

Dominate the game.Dominate the game.

MANUFACTURED IN STEVENSVILLEWhen you buy local your moneystays here in Montana supporting Montanans.

visit us online at thehuntingshack.com

A portion of each sale of our Bear Load ammunition goes to support events for our Veterans.

Bear Load • Dangerous Game Rifl e • Handgun

Lead Free • Reduced RicochetReloading Components • Firearms

Law Enforcement AmmunitionsCowboy Action • Cleaning Supplies

WHATEVER YOUR SHOOTING NEEDS, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED.

Pick up a box Pick up a box or more at or more at your local your local

sporting goods sporting goods store.store.

BIG GAMEFISH

SKULL MOUNTS

LIC# 130468081236FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: FORREST FAWTHROP

Quality Taxidermy

at an affordable price!

(406) 459-5352


®2012 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. All rights reserved.® ™ Trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products or its affi liates. Always consult your snowmobile dealer when selecting a snowmobile for your particular needs and carefully read and pay special attention to your Operatorʼs Guide, Safety Video, Safety Handbook and to the safety labeling on your snowmobile. Always ride responsibly and safely. Always wear appropriate clothing, including a helmet. Always observe applicable local laws and regulations. Donʼt drink and drive.

We’ve Got Your Ride

Call 443-7373 1-800-585-7397

3186 Hwy. 12 East Helenawww.onewaymarine.com

Full Parts & Service Depts.

Open HouseEvent

Friday, December 7th - 9am to 7pm andSaturday, December 8th - 9am to 4pm

The all-new 2013 Summit® sled is here!The all-new 2013 Summit® sled is here!Unveiling the 2013 Ski-Doo Line-Up Unveiling the 2013 Ski-Doo Line-Up

Up To

10% OFFall Ski-Doo

Accessories

Ask aboutSpecial Offers

& Special EventPricing!

General Ice Thickness Guidelines Photos and article from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

For New, Clear Ice Only2” or less - STAY OFF4” - Ice fi shing or other activities on foot5” - Snowmobile or ATV8” - 12” - Car or small pickup12” - 15” - Medium truck

Remember that these thicknesses are merely

guidelines for new, clear, solid ice. Many factors other than thickness can cause ice to be

unsafe.

CHECKING ICE THICKNESSNo matter what you are going to do once you get on theice - like fi shing, snowmobiling,skating or even ice boating, it’s a good idea to contact a local bait shop or resort on the lake about ice conditions. It’s also important to do some checking yourself once you get there. Several factors affect the relative safety of ice, such as temperature, snow cover and currents. But a very important factor is the actual ice thickness.

Ice ChiselThe ice chisel or “spud bar” is one of the oldest methods of making a hole in the ice. In its simplest form, it consists of a metal rod with a sharp, fl at blade welded onto one end that is driven into the ice in a stabbing motion. Depending on the sharpness of the blade, the thickness of the ice and the strength of the user, it can make a hole in the ice fairly quickly, especially when the ice is less than a foot thick. Ice Auger

There are several varieties of ice auger. Some people like the hand auger for its low cost, light weight and low noise factor. The

disadvantage of a hand-powered auger is that after a few holes, operator exhaustion becomes an issue. Some folks like an electric auger, with its low noise level rivaling a hand auger, with the advantage of a lot less work for the user. An electric auger does, however, need anexternal 12-volt battery, which can be something of a nuisance to lug around. Gas augers boast the fastest speed in drilling through the ice, but are heavier, noisier and generally more costly than hand or electric models.Cordless DrillThere is one tool, that many households have hanging on the pegboard in the basement or on a shelf in the garage that can make checking ice thickness a quick and easy task - a cordless rechargeable electric drill. With a cordless drill and a long, fi ve-eighths inch wood auger bit, you can drill through eight inches of ice in less than 30 seconds...Tape Measure...use a tape measure or...an ice fi sherman’s ice skimmer handle with inch markings to put down the hole and hook the bottom edge of the hole to determine the ice’s true thickness.

41December 2012

The all-new 2013 Summit® sled is here!Unveiling the 2013 Ski-Doo Line-Up

CALL US FOR OTHER PERFORMANCE ENHANCING, FUEL-REDUCING PRODUCTS!

Available at Gomer’s-USDIESELPARTS2400 Palmer Missoula, MT. 59808(406) 728-7620 or 1-800-823-4444

Vehicle Repair and Installation AppointmentsWe are always taking appointments for all performance upgrade installations and basic vehicle maintenance and repairs. Just give us a call at (800) 823-4444 to schedule an appointment with one of our licensed and experienced technicians.

Winter TiWinter Tipsps For Your For Your Vehicle From Vehicle From Gomer’s/US Diesel PartsGomer’s/US Diesel PartsWith winter in full swing, wewould like to take a moment to share some products we believe will enhance your vehicle’s performance, reduce fuel costs, and maintain it’s interior.

Stanadyne Diesel Fuel Additives Based on their extensive research, testing and experience in manufacturing diesel fuel injection systems, Stanadyne found that variations in diesel fuel quality around the world can adversely affect today’s precision fuel injection systems. Poor quality diesel fuel can cause performance issues, premature wear, gumming of components, and plugged fi lters. To resolve these issues and to provide protection of the fuel injection system, Stanadyne developed its own line of diesel fuel additives.

Stanadyne diesel fuel additives are the only ones in the world that are:-Made by a fuel injection systems manufacturer-Tested and approved by major diesel engine and vehicle manufacturers-Stanadyne diesel fuel additives protect and improve the performance of all diesel fuel injection systems including: high pressure common rail, unit injectors, rotary distribution pumps, and in-line pumps

Stanadyne’s Winter 1000 Economic cold weather protection-Fuel Gelling Protection - pour point reduced by as much as 40°F (22°C), depending on base fuel-Reduces ice formation of water in fuel

Promote Better Fuel Economy with Winter Fronts From Fia

Fia’s Winter Front promotes better fuel economy,faster engine warm-up and interior heat, andkeeps diesel engines at optimum operating temperatures.Made of all weather heavy-duty quilted vinyl with adjustable air fl ow doors, PLUS it’s interchangeable with Fia’s heavy-duty deluxe quilted heavy mesh bug screen. Installs with no-drill “Stick A Stud”™ fasteners and snap on domes.

Protect Your Vehicle Interior WithWeatherTech Floor Mats

Winter can be wet and dirty. Protect your vehicle’s interior with WeatherTech fl oor mats. They are made out of an odorless compound that have deeply sculpted channels designed to trap water, road salt, mud and sand. WeatherTech’s proprietary engineered resin also ensures that these mats will not curl, crack or harden in sub-zero weather.


Trijicon ACOG® (ADVANCED COMBAT OPTICAL GUNSIGHTS)

ACOG®For use in low light

or at night. The ACOG’s

combine traditional, precise distance

marksmanship with close-in aiming speed.

Available at Bob Ward & Sons

TA02 ACOG 4x32 LED ScopeBattery Illuminated Crosshair .223 Ballistic Reticle w/ TA51 Mount

LED Reticle Illumination

Powered by a single battery

6 manuallyadjustablebrightnesscontrolswith anoff in-betweeneach setting

TA47-4: Trijicon ACOG 2x20 w/M16 Base,

Amber Crosshair Reticle and BAC

Every feature of its design was chosen for a single purpose: to provide increased hit potential in all lighting conditions.

This is the most compact unit. It further increases the ability to detect and

identify targets out to 150-200 meters.

With multiple models available, you’re sure to fi nd a Trijicon ACOG® Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight

to fi t your needs.

Start Planning & Applying For Out-Of-State Tags Now (continued from page 29)

Across the board, all of the other states have left over licenses after the application draw process so there is some light at the end of the tunnel if you don’t have any preference points.

To an outsider, the Wyoming Game & Fish Department’s Non-Resident License Application Booklet can be a bit overwhelming, if not intimidating. A non-resident must apply for a hunting license in a drawing and be successful in that drawing before being eligible to hunt in Wyoming. For non-residents Wyoming conducts two separate draws; the “Regular Draw” (less expensive) or the “Special Draw” (more expensive). Applicants for Full Price Elk, Deer and Antelope licenses are given the option of accumulating a preference point. By checking the preference point fee option and remitting the proper fee(s), the applicant will accumulate a preference point if unsuccessful in drawing a Full Price license as a first choice. However, an applicant who draws a Full Price license as a second or third choice will retain all accumulated preference points and also earn an additional point.

Basically, the applicants with the most points have the advantage of drawing a license. The cost of the licenses are as follows: Antelope $286.00 / $526.00, Deer $326.00 / $566.00, Elk $591.00 / $1071.00, and a non-refundable application fee of $14.00. This is included in the amount to be remitted for each big game license applied for in the initial drawing. While the draw system is complicated, and you have to front the money, at least they spread the draw for each species out, so you can use the money over and over again if not successful with your first draw. With very high quality animals and generous allocations of non-resident tags Wyoming has some promising prospects. Weather, wolves, politics and the economy are slamming a quadruple whammy on the budgets of fish and game agencies in Idaho. The Idaho Fish and Game Department watched $3.5 million in license revenue vaporize last year, because it could not sell all of its allotted non-resident deer and elk tags, according to Craig Wiedmeier, license division manager.

Idaho’s sales of non-resident deer and elk tags have steadily declined each year since 2008. The trend apparently hasn’t bottomed out. Last year, sales of non-resident Idaho deer tags were down 22 percent from 2010 and elk tag sales were down 23 percent, Wiedmeier said.

The number of tags sold this year isdown about 18 percent from August 2011,but hunters who book through an Idaho outfitter will find that it’s easier to obtain deer and elk tags, if you have the extra money. Each year the Fish and Game Commission sets aside and allocates elk and deer tags for non-resident hunters who book with licensed outfitters. This system insures that Idaho outfitters have tags available long after states, such as Wyoming, have sold out. These non-resident allocations are available to residents after a certain date if they are not sold out to non-residents. Deer andelk tags can be also be used to harvest a cougar, black bear or a wolf. Idaho’s big game fees for non-resident hunters are competitive, but in order to apply

for any tag in Idaho a non-resident must first purchase a non-refundable hunting license, which will set you back $154.75. You then pay $14.75 as a non-resident for a controlled hunt permit and if you draw, you’ll then pay the cost of the actual tag. The deer tag is $301.75 and an elk tag is $416.75. Idaho does not have a preference point system, but a straight up random draw, which means that you have as good achance at drawing a tag your first year as a guy that has been putting in repeatedly for years. Non-residents can draw up to 10% of the available tags for each species with the exception in units that have fewer than 10 tags available. Idaho looks pretty inviting with bull elk in the 300-340 class range and 170+ bucks combined with some gorgeous scenery you can’t go wrong.

With a little planning, you should be able to find the perfect out-of-state hunt.

Good hunting.

43December 2012


Come See UsCome See Us At The At The

Great Rockies Great Rockies Sport ShowSport Show

January 4 - 6, 2013Helena Events Center

MONTANA’S EXCLUSIVESABRE & COLUMBUS DEALER!

Show openFriday 1-8Saturday 10-6Sunday 11-4

Northcentral Montana’s #1 Sales & Service Dealer

Check out our website!westerntrailersales.comwesterntrailersales.com

1865 HWY. 2 E • HAVRE, MT1865 HWY. 2 E • HAVRE, MT 406-265-4572 406-265-4572

1-800-216-4572 1-800-216-4572

NO REASONABLENO REASONABLEOFFER REFUSEDOFFER REFUSED

TRADES WELCOMETRADES WELCOME

45December 2012

Come See Us At The

Great Rockies Sport Show

westerntrailersales.com

1865 HWY. 2 E • HAVRE, MT 406-265-4572

1-800-216-4572

NO REASONABLEOFFER REFUSED

TRADES WELCOME

It was October 1 and I was hunting the eastern plains of Colorado with Atkinsons Expeditions. My buddy and expert guide Jeremy Fiscus had been doing a lot of scouting in this area and found an exceptional buck hanging out pretty consistently in a volunteer Sorghum patch. The closest Jeremy had ever glassed him was a mile and a half since he didn’t want to take a chance of bumping him out of his pattern. He figured the buck was in the 195′′ gross range which was what I was hoping to hunt.After a good nights sleep, we hit the coffee and then hit the ground running ready for some great mule deer action. We picked up a big framed buck the first morning, but due to hazy conditions we were not sure if it was the buck Jeremy had been watching. We watched as he walked over a small ridge and bedded down out of sight. We knew the general area, but were not sure of his exact location. We discussed strategy and decided to go ahead and make a stalk.The conditions were perfect for a stalk. No other deer that we knew of were near him and a 15 MPH wind blowing the Sorghum leaves helped cover our approach. Wes Atkinson (owner and master guide who was filming the hunt), Jeremy and I slowly closed the distance, methodically picking apart every patch that was big enough to hold a deer. It took several hours, and at 65 yards Jeremy made an incredible spot of his antler tip. I nocked an arrow and kept ranging his location in case he caught us and I had to act quickly. I would have stopped at 40 yards, but the heavy cross wind that was helping us get close was also going to make it harder to make a perfect shot so I moved closer, finally stopping at 30 yards.I took my Tight Spot quiver off to minimize the effect the wind would have on my trembling bow. Now it was a waiting game, no rocks, whistling or game calls this time. I have waited a long time to shoot a buck like this, and a couple more hours wasn’t going to kill me, just him.I decided to stand instead of kneel to be more comfortable, I knew I couldn’t do 8 hours on my knees. After 30 minutes I could see the buck’s antlers sway as he started to stand. As he did, I came to full draw before he completely stood up so he wouldn’t catch the movement. He looked right at us with only his massive antlers and throat showing and the rest of his body hidden behind the Sorghum leaves. His body language was not overly tense, but after 15 seconds I knew he wasn’t going to relax and step out so, my instincts took over. I settled my 30 yard pin where I hoped his vitals were and executed the shot. The hit sounded solid and as he bounded into view a large red dot kept enlarging right in the sweet spot as both my boys acknowledged the hit with a “You smoked him!”The massive buck bounded about 100 yards, did a little right turn and folded. Wes was the first to comment on his antlers being a little ‘Over sized’. As we followed the ridiculous blood trail that the Ulmer Edge tipped Victory VAP created our anticipation of what class of buck we had just taken was blown away.He is an 11 by 7 with a 226-4/8” SCI official score, a 209′′ main frame and a P&Y green sore of 203′′. For you spread guys his outside on the stickers is 29-3/8′′. It took a lot of research, preparation and team work to make this happen and I feel both lucky and blessed to have been able to close the deal on such an exceptional animal.

Author with his high scoring Mule Deer buck.

Eastern Plains Colorado Mule DeerBy Bob FrommeSponsored by Victory ArcheryReprinted with permissionfrom Bowhunting.netFor more visitwww.bowhunting.net

HD 309 - GALLATIN VALLEY - WRADeer - Antlerless whitetail deer only. Archery only.Elk - Antlerless elk only. Archery only.Open through January 15, 2013

Note: Weapons Area Restriction Map is available at FWP in Bozeman or phone 406-994-4042. Archery, shotgun, muzzeloader, traditional handgun or crossbow only.

HD 630 - SOUTH VALLEYDeer - Antlerless mule deer. Archery only at the Fort Peck Dam site.Antlerless whitetail deer. Archery only at the Fort Peck Dam site.

Note: A portion of the CMR Refuge at the Fort Peck Dam siteis open to archery only as posted.

Check Montana Hunting Regulations before you head out to hunt.

©Scromer|Dreamstime

Late Season Archery Opportunities Are Still Available (continued from page 30)


HHave it all...ave it all...

HELENAMontana Motorsports

& Marine3654 Highway 12 East

406-449-6595

MISSOULARangitsch Bros.

2001 W. Broadway1-800-823-2221

TOWNSENDTownsend Marine7812 Hwy 287 S.

1-800-598-5700

Yamaha EF1000iS, EF2000iS, and EF3000iSEBJust part of the Yamaha Generator Line-up

Available at these Montana DealersAvailable at these Montana Dealers

WESTLAND SEED

Offering the most product in the Mission Valleyfor your outdoor needs.

Largest gun selection.Only complete archery shop.

Most complete fi shing selection.Largest selection of optics.

Come see our amazing taxidermy displays

Warm temperatures, calm winds and clear skies brought hunters to the fi eld in south central Montana over the weekend – the fi rst time this year that hunter numbers have exceeded last year’s count. All three regional check stations run by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks reported more hunters than the same weekend a year ago.

At the Columbus check station, FWP wildlife biologist Shawn Stewart reported the most hunters and largest number of white-tailed deer for any weekend so far this year – and far more than the same weekend in 2011. However, the percentage of hunters with game was down from a year ago. On Saturday and Sunday, 239 hunters stopped at the Columbus check station. During the same weekend last year, only 128 hunters appeared. Hunters checked 63 white-tailed deer, compared to 36 in 2011. They had 39 mule deer, the same number as a year ago.The white-tailed deer rut is in full swing, so half of the checked animals were bucks, including many large bucks, Stewart said.

At the Lavina check station, FWP wildlife biologist Ashley Beyer checked 280 hunters – 20 more than the same weekend last year. The deer harvest was nearly identical to 2011, however, with 25 white-tailed deer (the same as last year) and 33 mule deer (one more than in 2011) checked. Overall, 24 percent of hunters who stopped at Lavina had harvested animals, down fi ve percentage points from a year ago. Of the deer checked, 72 percent of muley bucks and 63 percent of white-tailed bucks were 2.5 years old or older.

At Big Timber, FWP wildlife biologist Justin Paugh reported that the number of hunters was up sharply over last year – 142 this past weekend compared to 108 during the fi fth weekend of the general season in 2011. The deer harvest was nearly identical to last year, with 32 white-tailed deer (same as last year) and 29 mule deer (one fewer than 2011) counted. For the weekend, 43.7 percent of hunters had harvested game compared to 63 percent a year ago.With the rut in full swing, 97 percent of checked mule deer and 66 percent of white-tailed deer were antlered bucks...

Deer and elk harvest in northwest Montana is slightly ahead of last year, according to check station results around Region One.At the six northwest Montana check stations through Sunday, November 18, a total of 13,976 hunters checked 605 white-tailed deer (532 of these were bucks), 101 mule deer, and 67 elk for a 5.5 percent rate of hunters with game. Harvest was up slightly as compared to last year when 5.1 percent of hunters checked game. The number of whitetail bucks checked is up 8 percent, mule deer numbers are up 40 percent, and elk are down 23 percent as compared to last year’s check station results at the same point in the season. Hunter numbers are down seven percent.

The counts at the six northwest Montana check stations represent a sampling of the harvest and do not represent the complete number of animals taken...

Wolf Harvest: Hunters have taken 19 wolves in Region One to date. Statewide, hunters have taken 66 wolves. This is a complete count of the number of wolves taken as of November 18.

©Tony Campbell|Dreamstime

Deer and Elk Harvest in Deer and Elk Harvest in Northwest Montana Northwest Montana MFWPMFWP

From November 20, 2012

Warm Weather Brings Out Hunters; RUT HELPS WHITE-TAIL HARVEST MFWP

From November 19, 2012

47December 2012

Outdoor OutfitterYOUR

WESTLAND SEEDFishing - Camping - Guns & Ammo - Hunting - Archery

one mile west of the Dairy Queen on Round Butte Road in Ronan

Come see the amazing taxidermy

in our new showroom

406.676.4100

BEER & WINE SPECIALS

WESTLAND SEEDWESTLAND SEED

Offering the most product in the Mission ValleyOffering the most product in the Mission Valleyfor your outdoor needs.for your outdoor needs.

Largest gun selection.Largest gun selection.Only complete archery shop.Only complete archery shop.

Most complete fi shing selection.Most complete fi shing selection.Largest selection of optics.Largest selection of optics.

Keep your money in the valley this holiday season and shop with us. We’ll save you the drive to Missoula or Kalispell.

Come see our amazing Come see our amazing taxidermy displaystaxidermy displays

406-442-2603 | 1-888-433-0119 1515 EUCLID AVENUE, HELENA, MT. 59601

PLACER MOTORS

Let the fun begin.Let the fun begin.

Safety, All-Wheel Drive, Fuel-Economy, Comfort. You’ll find it all in a Subaru. See us today for yours.

Ends January 2, 2013

2013 Outback 2.5i Premium

Documents

Hunting & Fishing News - December 2012