mba summer magazine

www.mtba.org

VOL. 39 #4 Summer 2012

inside this issue:Officer & Regional Reports2012 Convention Highlights“Passion for Bow Hunting”Kids and Bows

— ontanaM BOWHUNTER 2 WWW.MTBA.ORG

Regional RepresentativesRRepRR prrese eional R entat

PUBLICATIONS DATES AND DEADLINES

WINTER ISSUE, DEADLINE, October 15

FALL ISSUE, DEADLINE, July 15 MEMBERSHIP INQUIRIES

PRESIDENTJoelle Selk

6963 York Road • Helena, MT [email protected] • 406-422-6798

1ST VICE PRESIDENTVacant

2ND VICE PRESIDENTSteve Schindler

134 Sawney Drive • Glasgow, MT [email protected] • 406-228-9024

TREASURERJenn Schneider

PO Box 23611 • Billings, MT [email protected] • 406-697-7668

PAST PRESIDENTJason Tounsley

8630 Longmeadow Dr. • Billings, MT 59106

MAGAZINE CO-EDITORS

WEB DESIGNERLyle Hebel

www.pixelelk.com

MAGAZINE DESIGN

K Design Marketing, Inc.Kimberly Kinsinger

15275 Thayer Rd. • Lolo, MT [email protected] • 406-273-6193

Region 1Paul Martin 3160 Airport Road, Kalispell, MT 59901 ................................406-261-4456

[email protected]

Al Kelly PO Box 219, Libby, MT 59923..............................................406-293-2900alman@frontiernet.net

Region 2

Region 3

Region 4 Cliff Garness Great Falls, MT ....................................................................406-788-9009obsession_archery@yahoo.com

Doug Krings 107 Duck Haven Lane, Lewistown, MT 59457 [email protected]

Lucas Zemlicka 26 Sheridan Ave., Bozeman MT 59718 .................................406-580-9560lucaszemlicka@hotmail.com

Marlon Clapham 4455 Hoover Lane, Stevensville, MT 59870 [email protected]

Lyle Hebel 44 Sundance Trail, Bozeman, MT 59781.................................406-539-3195lyle@pixelelk.com

Region 5 Brad Zink 3536 Summerfield Circle, Billings, MT 59105......................... [email protected]

Region 6 Nick Siebrasse 4996 Bullhook Road, Havre, MT [email protected]

Mark Weber 2885 Old Highway Road,Chinook MT 59523...........................406-357-4119mweber@itstriangle.com

Region 7 Rex Rogers Colstrip, MT ........................................................................406-740-3077rr_tradbow@yahoo.com

Region 8

AT LARGE DIRECTORSEVEN YEARS

P.O. Box 192, Lincoln, MT 59639 – [email protected] ...........................................406-362-4907Steve Kamps

Seth Rogers

Roger Peffer

435 South Atlantic, Dillon, MT 59725 – [email protected]

1020 Valley View Dr., Great Falls, MT 59405 – [email protected] ......................406-461-2792ODD YEARSAdam Barker

EDITORIAL COMMENTS

MBAMBAwww.mtba.org

Please send new memberships or renewa

lmemberships to MBA Treasurer, PO Box 23611 Billings, MT 59104 or call 406-697-7668 or ask any member.

Kelly Kimzey

The MBA Magazine is a quarterly publication of the MBA and is intended to inform, entertain and educate its members on happenings within the organization and to bowhunting in general.

VACANT

Teri and Al KellyPO Box 219 • Libby, MT 59923

[email protected]

Stories, photos or cartoons should be sent to Al orTeri Kelly at PO Box 23611, Billings, MT 59104 or email [email protected]. All materials are

the opinion of the author unless otherwise stated, and are subject to being edited. All photos will be placed in the MBA Photo Album and can be viewed at the annual conventions. Any questions as to policies of the MBA please write the President.

435 South Atlantic, Dillon, MT 59725 – [email protected]

2517 9th Ave So., Great Falls, MT 59405 – [email protected]

3—Summer 2012

3 MBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

4 FROM THE EDITOR

Teri Kelly

6 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Joelle Selk

2nd VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Steve Schindler

7 SECRETARY/TREASURER’S MESSAGE

Jenn Schneider

8 REGIONAL NEWS

12 2012 CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS

18 2012 ARCHERY SHOOTS

19 “PASSION FOR BOW HUNTING”

Kim Blaskowski21 KIDS AND BOWS — Marlon Clapham

22 BUSINESS & CLUB MEMBERS

23 MEMBER GALLERY

About THE COVER

Happy summer! Maybe it’s not offi cially summer, but at least by now we’ve all shaken off the last bits of winter and we are well into some nicer weather just in time to shoot some carp at the upcoming MBA Carp Shoot June 9th. You’ll fi nd additional details about the shoot here in your magazine. Since I’ll be editing this awesome magazine I’d better tell you a little about myself. My name is Teri and I am married to Region 1 rep Al Kelly, who will be assisting with editing duties. I’m a native Montanan and grew up in a hunting family. I fi rst started shooting a bow 15 years ago and started hunting for small game a few years after that. I started getting a little more serious a few years ago and harvested my fi rst whitetail with my 44# custom Toelke just last fall. What a rush that was!

Over the past several years that Al has been involved with the MBA, I’ve learned more about the organization, sort of like guilt by association I guess, and I often fi nd myself promoting the mission of MBA and recruiting members. I have gained great respect for the men and women who diligently volunteer their time, skills and money to support the MBA. I felt like it was time to do my part, which is why I volunteered to take on the task of editing. I’ve assisted a little in the past but real editing is a new area for me and one I look forward to learning more about. The magazine has always been one of my favorites to get in the mail and all I can say is I will do my best to keep up the high standard previous editors have set.

Please send me your stories, photos, ads, reports, etc. If you have a story or something to say and you’re not a big fan of writing, feel free to contact me and I can put your story or thoughts on paper. I hope to see, and meet many of you at the June 9th Carp Shoot, I’ll be the one running around with the camera.

Teri Kelly

Cliff and Mandy Garness on yet another successful bear hunt with Kutawagan Outfi tters.

from theEDITOR


5—Summer 2012


PRESIDENT’SmessageAh, spring is fi nally here! The turkeys are strutting, the bears are wandering,

and the time will soon be here for huntin’ carp. We’re truly fortunate to live in Montana and I hope you all make the most of the 2012 hunting seasons.

I fi rst want to extend a hearty “thank you” to the Butte convention crew, as well as the vendors, donors, and speakers. It was a very well-organized event, and it was great catching up with everyone as usual. Especially remarkable was the Founders video shown during the convention, which reminded us of our heritage, the hard-fought opportunities we enjoy, and the responsibility we have in protecting our bowhunting privileges. Always remember, these are privileges we have earned, not rights which have been given us. If we keep that foremost in our minds, we will continue to carry the torch for generations of bowhunters to come.

You’ll note there’s been some turnover on the board, both within the offi cers’ ranks as well as the reps and DALs. It’s with a good measure of regret and gratitude that I say “good bye” to the board members who are moving on, and a heartfelt “welcome” with which I greet the “new guys,” Seth Rogers and Nick Siebrasse. To all those who have chosen to remain another term, thanks for your dedication, because this ain’t an easy job.

During the convention, several long-time members challenged us to redouble our efforts to increase membership. Although we’ve felt that we’ve given our utmost to this effort in recent years, it’s important to continue seeking out new ways to educate bowhunters about our mission, and why it’s important for them to join us in a unifi ed effort to protect bowhunting. Recently, during a meeting with other sportsmen, one of the leaders made a distinction which I feel should defi ne our actions in the coming year, “Values unite us; issues divide us.” We must be crystal clear about our guiding principles, our priorities, and our goals in order to make choices which unite us and mediate the issues which can tear us apart. We can only do this when we’re represented with a well-informed, robust membership. It’s our primary task as a board to increase membership and then communicate effectively with our members so we can make united decisions.

The coming year will be full of more challenges as we enter the legislative cycle. Many groups are already preparing bill drafts and fi nding sponsors to carry them. We are preparing for the onslaught which will threaten our opportunities, and will need every ally to assist in the battle. Our greatest asset is our membership, and there is power in numbers, so sign up your friends and family so they can help protect Montana’s bowhunting opportunities.

In the meantime, I welcome you to the 2012 Canyon Ferry Carp Safari on June 9th (registration form included herein). It’s always a great time, and we have awards and prizes galore, so bring your family and friends to join in the fun.

Joelle Selk

After our election the MBA has several new offi cers and board members and it would be good for you to get to know your new representative or Director at Large. For sure make sure he has your e- mail address so he can keep you in the loop and you can participate in our online surveys. We have had great response so far with the surveys and we want every member to have the opportunity to participate.

The MBA has a lot on its plate for the upcoming year. Most of it will deal with how we conduct business. There is talk about a few changes to the by-laws that will modernize our communications and generally make it easier for us to handle the MBA’s business. One of the things I would like to see happen is to rearrange our area rep and DAL regions. As it is now, each region in Montana has 2 area reps. Tthe trouble is, some regions have 3 and 4 major towns and are several miles apart, so with 4 or 5 dollar a gallon gas it makes it diffi cult for some of the towns to get the representation. Now if we had the ability to have an area rep in each of these bigger towns, and not be tied to only having 2 for the region, I feel it would better represent the members. We do have Director at Large positions that are not tied to a specifi c region and have been fi lling in the gaps so far. As of right now this is just something I am thinking of. The board will go over it, hash it out, and I am sure we will come up with a better mouse trap.

The winter was just what the doctor ordered for our still recovering deer and antelope populations in eastern Mt. Some were saying after last winter/summer it would take 10 years for the populations to rebound. Winters like this past one will cut that rebound time in half for sure.

7—Summer 2012

A new hot topic that has been in the news lately is the buffalo. There have been talks about introducing the buffalo back to the CMR. I have some real concern over this and as of now nothing offi cial has happened. There are concerns about buffalo and cattle interactions, and although these are important, my biggest concern are sportsmen/buffalo interactions. One thing we have to understand is that buffalo are not just big cows. They can never be trusted and are more than willing to perform surgery on you if you would happen to bump into one unexpectedly. I really have concerns that the elk hunting would be somewhat impacted by reintroducing the buffalo. Now I know this is all just “supposing”, but we have to think about these things and be prepared when it comes time to give our comments. I wonder what would happen if a bowhunter were hiking down one of the fl at top ridges on the CMR heading out to an lek lookout spot way before daylight, and he ran headlong into a few buffalo. I only have images of the “Flying Japanese photographer” in Yellowstone Park… he got too close. Well, as I said, we have to make sure we know what there is to know about these things.

Steve Schindler

My second con-vention as Treasurer was a raving success, due entirely to the organization of the convention committee. These guys have set the bar pretty high; I hope their successors took notes! What really struck me about this convention, over the almost 20 I’ve been to, was the realization of my responsibilities as an offi cer and board member for this group. When I was asked to do this job, I thought it would be fun to be a part of something I’ve watched evolve over the years as well as get to know some of the people who had put more hours into defending bowhunting, than I had been bowhunting. I was way off. The video we watched at this banquet haunted me for a good week. It sends chills up my spine to think those men have been watching us run this organization that they put their blood, sweat, and tears into and haven’t beat down doors to tell us what they think we should be doing. Is it so crazy that I never took a moment to think about how my decisions make them feel?

Everyone knows our group has gotten awfully political, even divided in the last couple years, and now more than ever we need that guidance and reference from our roots. Why are we spending hours looking at emails and calling members and arguing with our comrades? Now I get it, now I know why I’m in this place at this point in time. There is a generation of apathetic bowhunters who have no idea what’s coming at them, but I do. I’m surrounded by a board that’s smart and driven and we will sacrifi ce those hours to serve the greater good and even those guys who have never wanted to be a part of this, and bash us to their buddies in the bow shop. I will sacrifi ce a few more hours for those who want to protect this; who send thank you notes, pay their memberships and stay the weekend for conventions and carp shoots. Most of all, I give thanks and shed tears of joy for those who served before me, those who already know the sacrifi ce and support still, the greater than ever need for purposeful volunteers, who won’t tolerate apathy and dissension.

For those who couldn’t make the convention, please keep checking the website for that video, please keep asking yourself why we have it so good in this state, and please keep pushing us to be better representation of you. And THANK YOU to Bob Savage, Jerry Karsky, Lee Poole, Scott Koelzer, Dick Solum, Mark Baker and everyone else who made it possible for me to be here doing this job and bowhunting in this beautiful state.

Jenn Schneider

SECRETARY/TREASURERS’message

For all those who purchase the plate, the MBEF would like to invite you to send us a photo of your plate on your vehicle.

Be creative, include yourself, pets, family, trophies of all sorts, etc.

These photos can be sent via email to [email protected] or snail mail atMBEF 3160 Airport Rd Kalispell, MT 59901 These photos will be posted on the upcoming MBEF website.

Paul Martin


Region 1

AL KELLYPAUL MARTIN

The convention in Butte was a great success. A great convention crew did a great job. This is my personal thanks to all who worked so hard to make it happen. The theme of the banquet was a look into the past and how the MBA came to be. This is also my personal thanks to those founding members who had the vision and determination to establish and empower the organization that the MBA has grown to be over all these years. There is no doubt that this organization is responsible for the great seasons we now have (and many folks take for granted). In this fast- paced, instant gratifi cation, entitlement attitude world we live in, we need members willing to work for the greater good of all and not just to their own agenda. We need to think about the future. Will our kids and their kids enjoy the best seasons and bowhunting opportunities available in any state? That will depend on whether or not we can accept the lessons of our forefathers and pass it forward. It is not easy. It is not neat and tidy and without controversy. But it is necessary to participate. So lastly, this is my personal thanks to all who have and all that will participate in the great organization we call the Montana Bowhunters Organization.

Thank You, Al Kelly

Region 1 report: GREAT JOB! to the guys and gals who put on the 34th Convention in Butte. With the banquets theme of honoring some of the founding fathers of the MBA, I was inspired to dig up one of my old photos for this report. In fact this was my fi rst white tail buck with a bow back in 1984. Just get a load of that hat and check out the mustache. It was the 22nd of Nov., I ambushed him on a trail with a shot of 9 feet, and a recovery of 10 yards. I’ll tell you, after that my rifl es would just gather dust, needless to say I was hooked for life.

Now we are looking forward to 3D shoots and the Carp shoot, but excited about the turkey and spring bear, especially the spring bear with all HDs in region 1 open until the end of May. I would like to tell you that it is about time to promote the return of our grizzly bear season. One of the most coveted animals of Pope & Young 29 categories could become available in the near future in MT. With a thousand bears in Region 1 alone it’s time for this to become reality.

On May 5th I will have attended one of FWP’s trapping classes here in Kalispell, it’s one of the things I felt we have to do to help control the predators for the start of our wildlife recovery. I would encourage as many of you as possible to do the same. I think we all can agree, we live in interesting times, archery and bowhunting appears to have captured the imagination of Hollywood with all the recent movies featuring ethical bowhunters like in Avatar and recently The Hunger Games, where it is advantageous to be a bowhunter. Archery and bow hunting is alive and well.

Paul Martin

MBA regional NEWS

Region 2

MARLON CLAPHAM

It’s been a long time since I’ve written for this Newsletter, so bear with me as I get back into it.

The Convention has come and gone. Many thanks go out to those of you that put all the work into this undertaking; I had a ball, meeting all the new and old members again. It was a lot of fun.

I want to let all Region 2 members know that we have the 2013 MBA Convention here in Missoula. Gary Carvajal has taken the reins of putting the committee on the right track and then keeping us there. The hotel has been secured and we have a guest speaker all lined up. Now we will focus on all the items that need ironed out.

Right now, most of us Bowhunter Ed. instructors are busy with all the spring classes, and in our spare time, getting ready for Spring Turkey and Spring Black Bear seasons.

Then all the spring shoots are coming up all over the state, and they’re always a good place to recruit new members to the MBA. The Five Valley Archery Club puts on the Bear Shoot along with the State Champion Shoot, June 16 & 17. It’s a great membership drive and brings in about fi fty new members a year. So if you can, try to attend, it is always a great shoot. Lastly, the Carp Shoot is coming up June 9th, and might just be a great weekend to meet up with other MBA friends and have some fun and just relax.

Keep in touch,

Marlon Clapham

Paul Martin

Al Kelly

9—Summer 2012

Region 3

LYLE HEBELLUCAS ZEMLICKA

Well, the annual convention has come and gone once again. And once again, our donors have shown tremendous support for the MBA and made some fabulous donations. I can’t thank all of you enough for your donations. If it wasn’t for your generosity, the MBA wouldn’t be able to pursue its mission statement of preserving and promoting bowhunting in Montana.

Congratulations to the award winners at the convention this year. The literature award went to J.D Jones for his excellent article on Bowhunting Elk with a Pregnant Wife. Jason Tounsley was the winner of the Conklin Award this year. This award is not given out every year, but only when someone is due recognition for their outstanding work toward the MBA over the past year. Congratulations Jason, it was well deserved. The Bowhunter of the Year Award went to Ashley Hartsook. This lady worked her butt off, from never bowhunting before to taking two Pope and Young animals her fi rst year both on public land in Montana. Congratulations, Ashley.

Three Forks will hold its bowhunter education classes on June 30 and July 1 at Three Forks High School (210 East Neal Street). Classes will run from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Online registration is required. Students should go to fwp.mt.gov and click on “Education” then “Hunter Education” to view the schedule of classes for both bow and hunter education classes and sign up. Big Sky Archery will be offering bowhunter education classes on June 18th-20th and 25th-27th.

Thanks

Lucas Zemlicka

Lucas Zemlicka

Region 4

CLIFF GARNESSDOUG KRINGS

Well, I got to spend less than 12 hrs at the MBA Banquet in Butte, but I had a good time nonetheless and it appeared to be a great turnout. I tried to better my odds at winning the bear hunt to no avail, although my father won it, so that was great to see him win a VERY NICE prize. I am sure his winnings will cost me money as well, as Jeff and Annette (www.kutawagan.com) run a fabulous camp. Thank you, Jeff and Annette, for your continued support of the MBA. Thank you to all the donors who provided wonderful prizes and raffl e items for the convention. If you see or do business with any of these donors, please tell them thank you for their support of the MBA. Congrats to all the nominees who won an MBA Award. I would like to challenge each of us to recognize more folks like these winners, by nominating them for awards next year. A big THANKS to the REGION 3 folks who put on one hell of a banquet.

Elk and deer tags are out, so congrats to all the lucky participants who drew and good luck to all in the draws that are yet to come. The weather is getting nicer and there are lots of archery shoots going on, so get out and practice for the upcoming seasons and support the local archery clubs. The Carp Safari will be here before you know it, so write June 9th on your calendar to participate in another great MBA Sponsored event.

With the spring seasons upon us, please email your success photos to me, so that we can get them posted in the magazine and/or the website. As always, if you have questions, concerns or thoughts, please email me at [email protected].

Cliff Garness

continued on page 10

Greetings Region 4,

It is nice to see what I would call a normal Montana spring. Sunshine and green grass is a welcome edition to April this year in the central part of the state. Before too long, the carp will be cruising the shallow bays and it will be time again for the MBA Carp Shoot at Canyon Ferry Reservoir, and I hope to see everybody there. It’s just too bad they don’t taste like walleye.

I would like to thank the retired board members who served the MBA well over the past years, and congratulate those stepping up to the plate. I would also like to thank all of the members who stay so involved.

This is a good time to meet your legislative candidates and ask them face to face how they feel about issues affecting fi sh and wildlife in Montana. Make sure they know that if they are elected, you will hold them to their word. As always, make sure you get in touch with me if you have any questions or concerns regarding the path of the MBA. Fill me in on what is happening in your part of Region 4. Send me an email or give me a call anytime.

I’ll admit I am somewhat distracted writing this update, as it is still turkey season and the sun is fi nally shining. The weekend forecast looks good enough that I am certain I will scare the hell out of at least a couple of birds. If nothing else, I hope to drag a couple antlers home for the pile.

Thank you for your time,

Doug Krings


Legislative:Joelle Selk, Chair

Adam Barker • Steve SchindlerDoug Krings • Cliff Garness

Rex Rogers • Mark Weber • Nick Siebrasse

Tentative:Steve Kamps, Chair

Adam Barker • Joelle SelkPaul Martin • Nick SiebrasseRex Rogers • Doug Krings

Marlon Clapham • Kelly Kimzey

Financial:Brad Zink, Chair

Mark Weber • Jenn Schneider

Landowner/Sportsman:Al Kelly, Chair

Cliff Garness • Lucas Zemlicka

Nominations:Steve Schindler, Chair

Adam Barker • Mark Weber • Doug KringsSteve Kamps • Rex Rogers

Al Kelly • Paul MartinLucas Zemlicka • Lyle Hebel • Joelle Selk

Awards:Roger Peffer, Chair

Al Kelly • Steve Schindler Cliff Garness • Jenn Schneider

Membership:Lucas Zemlicka, Chair

Rex Rogers • Doug KringsNick Siebrasse • Jenn Schneider

Roger Peffer • Kelly Kimzey

Convention 2013:Gary Carvajal, Chair

Jenn Schneider • Joelle SelkSteve Kamps • Lyle Hebel

Lucas Zemlicka • Marlon Clapham

Magazine:Al & Terri Kelly, Co-Chairs

Lyle Hebel • Steve SchindlerRex Rogers • Joelle Selk

Website:Lyle Hebel, Chair

Joelle Selk • Rex Rogers • Jenn Schneider

Carp Shoot:Joelle Selk, Chair

Bow-Ed:Al Kelly, Chair

Marlon Clapham • Nick Siebrasse

Hello All,

The convention in Butte was great. The Bozeman guys did a great job. Boy, there is a lot of work that goes into the convention.

By the time you read this turkey season will be over and bear season will be winding down. I am going to try to get my fi rst turkey with my bow this year.

I think it is everyone’s duty as a Montana sportsman’s to be active in the recruitment of new members in the MBA.

I hope to see everyone at the carp shoot. It should be great this year with less water than last year.

Brad Zink

Region 5

BRAD ZINK

Region 6

NICK SIEBRASSEMARK WEBER

Had a great time in Butte at the 2012 convention and have been having fun traveling to 3-D shoots with family and friends. I also just got back from hunting turkey in the breaks and it’s time for Bowhunter education classes. What a great life. It seems like every spare moment I’m not working my small ranch or driving a UPS truck I have my bow in hand.

I love this state and am proud to be a “Brother of the Bow”. My wife Sharon and I have 3 daughters and a son that are all the outdoor types. The kids are all gone and I am about to retire from the brown truck, so I want to serve as a MBA board member. I would love to hear from you all about anything that you feel might affect this great life style we call Bow Hunting. Give me a call or e-mail any time.

Your Brother of the Bow,

Nick [email protected]

Nick Siebrasse

11—Summer 2012

ADAM BARKER

Hey folks, spring has arrived in Great Falls and some birds and bears have already hit the ground in R4. I hope you all get a chance to stretch your legs (and bowstrings) to start off a new set of seasons right.

Please consider sending some photos or stories to get them in the Magazine or on the website. Not much news in this part of the state to report. Most big-game counts in R4 are strong with the exception of mule deer in the west, and antelope in some of the North. Sheep are a bit touchy in some areas of the Front, but nothing to stress about just yet.

Keep in mind that we’ll need some guiding input in the near future as the legislative session begins to unfold. There is sure to be plenty of bills dealing with wildlife this session, so watch for inbox for MBA updates. No personal luck with any big permits for bucks or bulls, but if you’ve come up a winner – you may want to turn to the MBA membership as a good starting point for your research. I’m always amazed at the amount of experience, knowledge and accomplishment that we enjoy in the faithful ranks of the MBA. On the permit topic, a side note to think about is that there was an ES elk archery-only LPT in the Breaks, where 1st choice residents were denied. It might be worth some thought on the direction of ES archery elk permits in the state of MT. Where do we want to be 10 years down the road?

Lastly, it’s the time of year for archery shoots across the state. Consider marking your calendars for the Helena Carp Safari in June or the Clearwater Junction Bear Shoot that is always on father’s day weekend ---- both events are tied in to the MBA.

Adam Barker

STEVE KAMPS

I hope you are all out enjoying spring and pursuing some of those bears and toms our great state has to offer. While Tentatives Season is mostly past us, let’s not forget that lion and wolf seasons and quotas are still being decided. These are very important decisions as they directly affect ungulate populations and what we see in the woods.

For mountain lions, Region 1 is proposing 20% increases in their permit numbers. Region 2 is looking at much needed increases in female harvest with the newly instituted hybrid lion season (1st half season by permit and 2nd half by quota system).. FWP Department staff have been listening to us sportsmen as well as watching all indicators showing that lion populations are high while many of our ungulate populations are in steep decline, and have based their quota recommendations on sound science. There are some,

DIRECTORSAt Largehowever, that want to see more lions to chase and bigger lions to harvest that are resisting getting lion populations back in balance.

The MBA is supporting the proposals the Department recommends because they are based on the best science available and because the vast majority of our membership want lion populations to be brought back in to balance. I cannot stress enough how important it is for you to let the Commissioners know how you feel. While scientifi cally based proposals recommended by FWP that are supported by the majority of sportsmen should be supported by the Commission, it doesn’t always work that way. At times like these, you need to make your voice heard, or don’t complain about it later when poor decisions have been made.

The deadline for comment on the lion proposal is May 25th. You can read the proposal and the associated proposed changes to the quotas at: http://fwp.mt.gov/fwpDoc.html?id=55437.

You can comment by going to: http://fwp.mt.gov/hunting/publicComments/2012mtnLionQuotas.html A fi nal decision will be made by the Commissioners at their June meeting.

The wolf season will be considered by the Commission in May with a fi nal decision made in July. At the time of this writing, we do not know what the proposal for this coming year’s wolf season will look like, but to say the least, it is expected that it will be more aggressive than last season.

Statutory changes to the wolf seasons must be passed by the Legislature next winter before they can be instituted on the ground. Several proposals are: are more than one wolf allowed per hunter or trapper, allowance for trapping, use of electronic calls, and reductions in wolf license fees. These changes cannot be made by FWP until they are changed by law. We are pushing to have these changes made as soon as possible within the Legislative process so they can be used immediately during the winter in 2013 while there is still some wolf hunting season left. As always, stay tuned and make your voice heard.

Steve Kamps

Steve Kamps

Adam Barker

13—Summer 2012


Ann

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th2012 AWARD

WINNERS

Bowhunter of the Year Ashley Hartsook

Conklin AwardJason Tounsley

Literature AwardJ.D. Jones

Live Auction Winners

Fish Fisher Lamp donated by Fish Fisher Cookie Koch

Wire Pheasant donated by Brian Koelzer Greg Durward

Antler End Table donated by Brian MackieSteven LaPage

Denver Bryan print donated by Denver Bryan Cookie Koch

Primitive bow donated by Jim RemppSeth Becker

Jack Creek hunt donated by the Jack Creek Preserve Foundation

Barrett Hougan

Allen Jimmerson printLinda Heichle

Jim Doland art donated by Jim DolandJim Birkelo

Big Horn Sheep Bronzedonated by Vicky Davis

Cookie Koch

Skyblade Knife donated by Todd OrrCookie Koch

African hunt donated by Matlabas Game Hunters

Keith Dvoroznak

Bear Hunt donated by Kutawagan Outfi tters Steve Garness

Jar of Cookies donated by Roger Peffer Cookie Koch

Beauty PackageCookie Koch

Darrell Davis print donated my Montana FWP Judy Adams

Longcurve bow donated by the MBAKim Riley

Alberta moose hunt donated by Silver Fox Outfi tters

Blaine Brengle— ontanaM BOWHUNTER 14 WWW.MTBA.ORG

34th

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15—Summer 2012

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• Professional Techs• Bows for All Budgets

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• Lessons All Levels• Indoor & Outdoor Range


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Adventure Medical KitsMontana TargetWestern Trailer & Marine SalesKutawagan Outfi ttersDukes AssesoriesBe The DecoyOutdoor DNATrophy TakerEastonDeltaFarr AutomotiveH & H MeatsScheneesPronghorn Custom BowsToelke Traditional BowsYellowstone Custom BowsSchafer Silvertip BowsSapphire Traditional ArcheryBears Paw BowsDr CamoRocky Mountain ArcherySitkaMystery RanchMountain HouseIron Llama Manufacturing

Jim Dolan ArtistImages on the Wild SideMatlabas Game HuntersScheibel ArtPacifi c SteelSpeedy LubeClean WasteOlivelleJoe’s ParkwayTake A Hike ExpressionsTraditional OutdoorsBozeman OpticalSilpada Designs RepresentativeBuffalo Jump ArcheryProisMattress KingSula Country Store & ResortJ&E CarpentrySky Blade KnivesE.L.K., IncBear Country Containers24/7 Muscle & FitnessWasta AgYETIGame Trails Wildlife Studio

A HUGE “THANK YOU” TO ALL OUR

DONORS AND SUPPORTERS!

Game Trails Wildlife StudioWholesale Sports TNT SpringsJack Creek PreserveExtreme BowstringsMontana Mapping &GPSAntler Creek Wildlife CreationsTightspot QuiversMike VinionClassic BowhuntingMBAFWPLanshark BroadheadsQuality Skull CleaningShur TaxidermyBerger TaxidermyWork Sharp ToolsSummit BeverageAdventure Medical KitsFHF GearRipcord TechnologiesFrontier AnglersMurdocks Ranch SupplyRocky Mountain SupplyBitterroot Trading Post

Big R Great FallsLucas ZemlickaSilver Fox Outfi ttersUDAP Pepper PowerMontana Mobile MeatsSwhacker BroadheadMuzzy BroadheadsBig RMontana CanvasRiley StovesLarry ZabelThe Family of William M. DavisMid RiversBruntonSW Montana Plastic SurgeryPronghorn FreaksCentaur ArcheryRocky Mountain SupplyMurdocks Ranch SupplyBurris3 Rivers ArcheryScheels BillingsRoonco Inc. Bob Lydia Dan and Steph RooneyRoger Peffer


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Thanks to the 2012 Convention Crew for their hard work.Joey and Jesse NelsonLyle HebelBrian KoelzerJason HeggAshley Hartsook

Nate and Marci PeckinpaughBrandon VanDykenJenn SchneiderLucas Zemlicka


2012 Archery ShootsJune 2nd and 3rd — Fisher River Shoot Fawn Creek Campground near Libby MT Libby Archery Club - 406-293-8738

June 9th and 10th — Summer SizzlerWilliamson Park 5 miles south of Shelby, Montana on the frontage road. Registration begins at 8:00 AM Marias Valley Archers Loren Skartved (406) 424-2256 or Mike Pederson (406) 460-0649

June 9th — 2012 Canyon Ferry Carp Safari Hellgate Campground, Canyon Ferry Lake, outside of Helena, Montana MBA - mtba.org/montana-resources/carpfest

June 17th — 3D Forsyth, MT 8 AM registration Pronghorn Archery club of Forsyth, MT Barb Purdon [email protected]

June 16th and 17th — 3D Makoshika State Park — Makoshika Bowmen of Glendive MT Contact Jim Thompson for more info: 406-687-3412

June 23rd and 24th — 14th Annual Barber Ranch 2 day archery shoot Barber Ranch BearPaw Bowmen Archery Club – Havre Clyde – 406-265-4572 or checkout www.bearpawbowmen.com

July 7th and 8th — Shoot for the Cure 3-D shoot Townsend All proceeds are donated to the Susan G. Koman Foundation Montana. Any questions please check our web site at www.shootforthecuremontana.org

July 21 and 22 — Kings Hill Shoot Harley Park in Little Belt Mtns — GFAC For more info all shoots are on our web site www.greatfallsarchery.com or you can emai questions to [email protected]

July 28th and 29th — 3D Makoshika State Park — Makoshika Bowmen of Glendive MT Contact Jim Thompson for more info: 406-687-3412

August 4th — 2 person Best Arrow & Broadhead Shoot Forsyth, MT 8 AM registration Pronghorn Archery club of Forsyth, MT Barb Purdon [email protected]

August 4th — Field Archery Sampler Wadsworth Park Electric city Archers Dan Crawford 406-799-0953 Club or email: [email protected]

19—Summer 2012

by my husband Chris. That same

year we attended the Montana

Bowhunters Association Convention

and joined the group. I was so

excited to be surrounded by a group

of people who shared the passion for

bow hunting. Since then we have

attended the convention every year

traveling from place to place each

year. Seeing old friends and meeting

new ones. Exchanging our hunting

stories from the past year and

looking forward to the evening of

events, games and raffl es. This year

was different for me and maybe a lot

of others as well. Steven Drake put

together a wonderful video about

the founding fathers of the MBA.

Up to this point I had never thought

twice about who started this great

group and I really felt ashamed.

Watching this video, I was educated

on who those founding fathers

were, the obstacles they overcame

and the path they carved out for us.

I now have a new outlook on what

this organization means to me. No

longer am I JUST a member. It is

my duty as a member to be actively

involved in all aspects of this group.

From contacting my congressman

about certain bills to volunteering

for anything that needs to be done.

I challenge all members to be more

involved with the MBA. It is our

duty to carry on what was started by

a group of men some 30+ years ago. It’s not just about meeting up once a year to

socialize and tell great stories. It’s about a way of life for us and for the generations

to come. If you are not a member of the MBA but another organization, I encourage

you to fi nd out all you can about that group’s history and be a productive member.

“passion for bow hunting”In 2009 I was introduced to the world of bow hunting

Bob Savage, Montana Bowhunter member #1

Uniting the state’s bow hunting sportsmen to work towards a common goal of preserving and promoting the sport of bowhunting in Montana.

Kim Blaskowski


INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIPOne Year $25.00Three Years $67.00Life $500.00

FAMILY MEMBERSHIPOne Year $30.00Three Years $81.00

JUNIOR MEMBERSHIP (Under 18)One Year $5.00

CLUB MEMBERSHIPOne Year $45.00Three Years $120.00

BUSINESS MEMBERSHIPOne Year $45.00Three Years $120.00

OVERSEAS MEMBERSHIPAdd $10.00 a year to membership choice for added mailing costs

Memberships run January 1to December 31 each year.

Do you enjoy bowhunting and ourbowhunting seasons in Montana? Join the MBA to preserve, promote and protect bowhunting!

Join Today!Visit the MBA website at: www.mtba.org

What the MBA offers you:Expanded hunting opportunities through workingwith FWP and commissioners to preserve andexpand bowhunting seasons

Unified voice during legislative sessions to protectseasons and access programs while opposingefforts which seek to limit the role of FWP inmanaging wildlife

Fellowship with others who are interested inshaping the future of bowhunting

Quarterly magazine keeping you informed on local,state, and national bowhunting issues, bowhuntereducation, events, and great hunting stories

Name: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Street: ____________________________________________ City: __________________________ State: ________ Zip: __________

Email: _________________________________ Date:______________________Telephone: (_____) ____________________________

INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP* One Year $25.00 Three Years $67.00 Life $500.00

FAMILY MEMBERSHIP* One Year $30.00 Three Years $81.00

JUNIOR MEMBERSHIP (Under 18)

One Year $5.00

CLUB MEMBERSHIP* One Year $45.00 Three Years $120.00

BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP* One Year $45.00

Three Years $120.00

OVERSEAS MEMBERSHIP*Add $10.00 a year to membership foradded mailing costs

MBA HATS $15.00 each + $5.00 postage

MBA PATCHES $2.50 each please send______patches

DONATIONS $_________________

This is a gift membership from____________________________________________________________________________________

Credit Card #________________________________ Exp. Date________ Signature__________________________________________

PAYMENT TYPE

Check Money Order Credit Card— VISA MASTERCARD TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED _______________

YES! I wish to join the MBA. Enclosed is my check, money order or credit card for the membership checked below!SEND TO: MBA, PO BOX 23611 . BILLINGS, MT 59104 • PH. # 406-697-7668

COMMISSION MEMBERSE-mail Commissioners: [email protected]

District 1 Bob Ream, Chairman521 Clarke Street Helena, MT 59601 (406) 461-3202

District 2 Dan Vermillion, Vice-Chairman PO Box 668 Livingston, MT 59047 (406) 222-0624

District 3 Ron Moody, Commissioner 109 Bach Avenue Lewistown, MT 59457 (406) 538-2698

District 4 A.T. Stafne, Commissioner 8079 US Highway 2Wolf Point, MT 59201 (406) 653-2881

District 5 Shane Colton, Commissioner335 Clark Billings, MT 59101 (406) 259-9986

21—Summer 2012

Lone Rock Elementary school is located just outside of Stevensville and is one of the oldest schools in the state dating back to the 1800’s. The school receives a grant for an after-school program. At the program, the kids have the opportunity to participate in many activities including art, various games, crafts and archery. The program is staffed by volunteers and the kids can jump around and try the different stations.

The program is invaluable in exposing kids to activities they may not otherwise get to try, and for those that have working parents; it gives them a safe and educational place to be until they get home from work. From my experience volunteering with the program and also teaching Bowhunter Ed, I know that when these kids get to the age to take Bowhunter Education that they are still into archery and bowhunting.

The kids always let me know that they were there in the Lone Rock after-school program, and that’s where they got their start. Some of the bows the kids are holding belong to the MBA, and the rest of the equipment belongs to me.

Other organizations like Cub Scouts and churches call, and I go to their gathering and teach the young people the fun and love of shooting bow and arrows. So, I get the kids from Missoula up and down the Bitterroot Valley. The fi rst step to get kids interested in archery hunting is to get a bow in their hands.

Marlon Clapham


24/7 MUSCLE AND FITNESS Kelly Kimzey 435 South Atlantic Dillon MT 59725 406-925-3485

ARCHERY CENTERS OF MONTANA Lee Davis 1212 Longstaff Missoula MT 59801 406-721-5537

ARCHER’S ROOST Steven Battaglia PO Box 429 Hardin MT 59034 406-672-5945

BACKCOUNTRY ARCHERY PROSHOP 208 W Spruce St Libby MT 59923 406-293-8738

BE THE DECOY, LLC Mark Renner PO Box 5151 Bozeman MT 59717 www.bethedeccoy.com

BIG SKY ARCHERY William Farris 120 Pollywog Lane Belgrade MT 59103 www.bigskyarchery.com

BILLINGS ROD & GUN CLUB William Bishop P.O. Box 33 Belgrade MT 59714 406-259-0006

BRUCE’S QUICKLUBE Bruce Metcalf 1111 E Front St Butte MT 59701 406-782-6124

BUFFALO JUMP ARCHERY Judy Adams 2710 Broadwater Ave Helena MT 59602 406-449-3111

CROWN PHOTOGRAPHY M & L Layne PO Box 9936 Kalispell MT 59904 www.mtcrownphoto.com

DAHL WHOLESALE Chris Dahl PO Box 384 Drummond MT 59832 406-449-1517

DR. CAMO Don Stein 1625 Northern Heights Dr Havre MT 59501 406-265-8099

FIRST CLASS OUTDOORS, LLC 10 Grassy Flat Road Roundup MT 59072 661-317-0001

FIVE VALLEYS ARCHERY CLUB PO Box 5083 Missoula MT 59806 406-544-2169

GARRAMONE BUILDERS Don Garramone 1105 Spurgin Court Missoula MT 59804 406-327-4800

HARDIN MIDDLE SCHOOL 611 W 5th St Hardin MT 59034

HAWK HAVEN CREATIONS Robert Edmundson 160 Tamarack Drive Kalispell MT 59901 406-333-6613

HUNTING GPS MAPS.COM Eric Siegfried 1675 Shindig Dr Missoula MT 59808 406-599-1565

K DESIGN MARKETING, INC. Sam & Kim Kinsinger 15275 Thayer Rpad Lolo MT 59847 www.kdesignmarketing.com

MAKOSHIKA BOWMEN PO Box 781 Glendive MT 59330 406-939-0697

MATABLAS GAME HUNTERS Willem Frost PO Box 1559 Lephalale, 0555 Africa South 27116794664

THE MEADOWLARK GALLERY Gary Temple 118 North 29th Street Billings MT 59101 406-294-8575

MONTANA HISTORICAL SOC LIBRARY PO Box 201201 Helena MT 59620

MOUNTAIN TOP TRADITIONAL Rod Kelley 1758 Three Mile Dr Kalispell MT 59901 406-756-5885ARROWS

NORTHWEST CONVENTION George Johnson 525 2nd Ave East Kalispell MT 59901 406-261-1479SERVICES

POLSON AMBULANCE, INC. Tim Brester, Eric Henslin PO Box 838 Polson MT 59860 406-883-5778

PRONGHORN CUSTOM BOWS Herb Meland 2491 W 42nd St Casper WY 82604 www.pronghornbows.com

ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUNDATION David Allen 5705 Grant Creek Road Missoula MT 59808 406-523-4500

SIMMONS SHARKS Dave & Brandy Oligee 3312 Rome Lane Stevensville MT 59870 406-370-5311

SPIRIT QUEST ARCHERY Aaron Lasco 115 Rocky Cliff Rd Kalispell MT 59901 406-756-5455

TOELKE TRADITIONAL ARCHERY Dan Toelke 31345 Lost Creek Lane Ronan MT 59864 406-676-5150

TRAILS END CUSTOM RECURVE BOW Dale Dye 276 Grantsdale Rd Hamilton MT 59840 406-363-2983

WESTERN TRAILER & Clyde Thomas, Jr. 1865 Hwy 2 E Havre MT 59501 406-265-4572MARINE SALES

YELLOWSTONE BOWS Rich Wormington 280 HWY 14A E Lovell WY 82431 307-548-6292

Howard Jaidinger HC 1, Box 1730 Glennallen AK 99588 907-522-3159

James Bennett 150 Painted Meadows Butte WY 59701 406-491-7473

James Brown PO Box 96 Richey WY 59259 406-773-5509

Active as of May 2012Become a Business Member of the MBA

and be listed on this page every issue! For membership visit www.mtba.org.

BUSINESS & CLUB MEMBERS

BOB MORGAN with a damn nice speed goat

GREG MUNTHER - with a nice whitetail

JEFF DOLL - and a big ole carp!

SETH ROGERS - Nice turkey and we mean the bird!

NICK SIEBRASSE - with a nice 4x4 whitetail

3 -grizzlies - ROGER PEFFER provides us with some

great camera work!

STEVE TYKINSKI with a NICE farm buck

Mark Baker with his last minute whitetail

JUSTIN TRAEGER with a good breaks bull

23—Summer 2012


WHY EVERY MONTANA BOWHUNTER SHOULD CONSIDER JOINING THEMONTANA BOWHUNTERS ASSOCIATION

• The MBA is the organization the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks consults on bowhunting issues that affect Montana bowhunters.

• Montana has the best bowhunting seasons of any of the western states. We are continually working to keep these.

• The MBA is active in the Legislature to protect and fight for our hunting andbowhunting seasons and rights.

• The MBA produces a quarterly magazine informing you of local, state, and national bowhunting issues and events, and publishing great stories and pictures.

• THE MBA NEEDS MEMBER NUMBERS AND YOUR YEARLY DUES TO CONTINUE TO PROTECT WHAT YOU ENJOY EVERY YEAR. ISN’T WHAT YOU ENJOY EVERY

What the MBA has done for you?• Worked to get the first archery season started in Montana. Along the

way, we’ve increased the seasons to what you enjoy today.• Worked to establish archery bear, lion and sheep seasons.• Worked to establish archery antelope 900 tag and August 15th opener.• Worked to establish archery only areas and hunting districts.• Proposed a special archery wolf season and endorsed the highest

quota of wolf harvest possible.• Actively protects hunting & bowhunting seasons in the Legislature

year after year.• Defended our archery seasons against the “Crossbows &

Muzzleloaders” threats throughout the years.• Created the Modified Archer’s permit that now allows those with

handicaps to use modified archery equipment to hunt; which kept any need for crossbows out of Montana and defended our archery seasons against other crossbow threats throughout the years.

• Re-established the archery season after it was left off the regulations one year.

• Actively works with FWP to protect archery seasons, our resources, and expand archery opportunity in Montana year after year.

What can you do for thebowhunting in Montana?Join the MBA at www.mtba.orgto preserve, promote and protect bowhunting. Ph

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