Doctors Andrew & Elizabeth Ordelheide Plains, Montana

Dr. Scott Parker and family Superior, Montana

Services: - Accepting new patients - Same day service - Cosmetic dentistry - Crowns, bridges, veneers - Dentures - Root canals - Oral surgery - Dental cleanings - Family friendly

Did you know…

About 100 years ago someone invented a minty cream we now call toothpaste. Before that people used to clean their teeth with crushed egg shells, pumice, burnt animal hooves, ground-up chalk or charcoal, salt, lemon juice, ashes (yes the stuff from your wood stove), tobacco and honey mixed together. Tooth brush-ing became popular during World War II. For those that remember toothpaste tubes used to be metal.

Publisher’s Notes

Whether you are a resident or just visiting the beautiful Northwest Montana, thank you for picking up a copy of the Montana Woods N Water. This is a brand new publication that focuses on the outdoor men and women of Northwest Montana Region 1 & 2 that are “Living The Dream”. The publishing business runs on advertising dollars so

we will cover as many topics/events as advertising dollars will allow. It is our goal to always improve on the previous edition. We want you to look forward to getting the next month’s issue like opening day of elk season. Like most of you, I am an avid outdoorsman. I am also a former hunter education and International Bowhunter Education (IBEP) Instructor . I retired from the USAF with 22 years of service (USAF - Security Forces/Recruiter), a Kentucky farm boy, former contractor, father of a teenage boy and God fearing patriot. Again thank you for picking up a copy of Montana Woods N Water...if you enjoyed the publication please pass it on to someone else to read it, if you see something we need to improve on or have an idea to make it better please contact us. As you look over our advertisers please support them and let them know you saw their ad in Montana Woods N Water. I want to personally thank the Sanders County, Montana businesses that advertised with us and supported the start up of this publication. We could not have done it without your support.

Raf Viniard Publisher, Montana Woods N Water

Staff

Publisher: Raf Viniard

Editor: Raf Viniard

Sales and Marketing: Raf Viniard

Photographer: Raf Viniard

Pro Staff Writers/Photographers: Paul Fielder -Trapping

Toby Bridges - Smoke Poles Toby Walrath - A Hunter’s Life

Pastor Jim Sinclair - Sportsman's Meditations Zach Butcher - Archery Talk

Contributing Photographers/Writers: Dan Helterline

Jim Foster John Wozniak Shauna McNeil Len Wagoner

Contact Us

Montana Woods N Water 171 Clark Creek Loop

Plains, MT 59859 406-407-0612

www.montanawoodsnwater.com

For Advertising Rates: advertising@montanawoodsnwater.com

For a Subscription: subscribe@montanawoodsnwater.com

Subscribe Today

Postal Subscription only $20.00 per year OR

E-Version for only $12.00 per year

E-mail us at: subscribe@montanawoodsnwater.com to get

your subscription started today or go to:

www.montanawoodsnwater.com/subscribe.html

Living The Dream!

What’s Inside Hunting - Page 4 Trapping - Page 5 Fishing - Page 6

Smoke Poles - Page 7 A Hunter’s Life - Page 8

Her Page - Page 9 Sportsman’s Meds - Page 10 Local Celebrities - Page 12 Outdoor Politics - Page 15

Outdoor Vets - Page 16 Public Land Access - Page 17

Camp Fire Talk - Page 18 The Next Generation - Page 20

Archery Talk - Page 22

Page 4 ◊ Montana Woods N Water ◊ May 2014 ◊ Hunting

Nap Time Is Over - by Raf Viniard We finally get a chance to get back in the woods, do some hunting and post season scouting. With bear season well under way the bears have started to awaken from their long winter nap and Montana hunters are ready to shake off their winter blues by getting back in the woods, glassing the south slopes and walking the gated roads looking for old sleepy head.

Since Montana does not allow baiting you are limited to spot and stalk, calling with a predator call and hunting their favorite food sources. We have spoken with Region 1 & 2 state bear gurus and here is what they have to say.

Region 1 - Wildlife Management Specialist (WMS) Erik Wenum of Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks (MFWP) said his region has plenty of bears to hunt. Starting the last week in April into May. The best places to look would be the Swan and Middle Fork areas with bear populations averaging 1.1 to 1.2 per square mile in some areas. West of Kalispell out to Libby has approximate-ly 1 bear per square mile. The earlier the snow comes off the better.

The middle Fork area is mostly hike in or horseback because of limited road access. Around the Swan area there are more loop roads allowing deeper access. His best advice is find a gated road around areas with limited cover and some green up. Bears will be walking these roads eating wild strawberries plants and dandelions. Couple these food sources with bear scat in the area and you will be looking in the right spots. Erik thinks the afternoon hunts are the best because you are not walking in the dark disturbing the bears before you even get a chance to see them.

Erik echoes the Region 2 Jamie Jonkel reminders. Make sure when hunting in Region 1 you clearly identify whether it is a black bear or grizzly and not shoot a sow with cubs. Erik can be reached at 406-250-0062.

Region 2 - WMS Jamie Jonkel of the MFWP claims the best bear hunting is by far Region 1 because it has more foods and more bears, but don’t eliminate Region 2 as an option. The wet areas west of Missoula offer some very good bear hunting habitat. The month of May is the best time to take a bear. Focus on the green up areas with cow parsnips, horsetail, nettles, fireweed, spring beauty and the infamous dandelions.

Jamie went on to say, “About mid May the fawning/calving season starts and will last about 2-3 weeks. The bears will take ad-vantage of the open window of opportunity. Focus your attention around the snowline for these bears snooping around for an easy meal.” After about two weeks the fawns and calves are able to outrun the bear. He reminded bear hunters to be cautious if you are hunting around the Blackfoot/Clearwater areas and to be on the lookout for Grizzles. Also, make sure you are not shoot-ing a sow with cubs. Jamie stated, “You think you are killing one and really you are killing four.” If you have any questions about Region 2, Jamie can be reached at 406-542-5508.

Just The Bear Basics… No baiting or use of dogs allowed in Montana Make sure your hunting license is up-to-date Pickup the MFWP 2014 Black Bear Hunting Regulations and familiarize yourself with the rules Respect private landowner’s property Wear at least 400 square inches of orange above the waist Tag your bear at the kill site Leave the sex organs attached to the hide. Report your bear kill within five days 1-877-397-9453 or your local warden Take pictures and send them to Raf@montanawoodsnwater.com Pickup next month’s issue and show all your friends you are a local celebrity...signed autographs optional.

Woods N Water ◊ May 2014 ◊ Trapping ◊ Page 5

Trapping News Region 1 – by Paul C Fielder, Thompson Falls

Animal rights groups (ARG) have filed two ballot initiatives to ban all trapping on all public lands in Montana. I never thought this possible in the land roamed by John Colter, David Thompson, and other mountain men of the fur trade. The Mon-tana Trappers Association (MTA) is conducting a well organized campaign against these ballot initiatives for all trappers, sportsmen, and public land users. The trend in other states has been for ARGs to go after what they think are the weakest links first, such as trappers, and then go after the hound hunters, bear hunters, lion hunters, log-gers, ranchers, miners, and so on. Restrictions keep getting piled on to the activities

that we people that live in the country do, until we can’t do those things anymore. These ballot initiatives are not about trapping. They are about limiting OUR activities on OUR public lands because THEY don’t like what WE do. Please do not support any trapping ban initiatives. I, or the MTA Facebook page, can offer more information. The MTA conducted a fur handling clinic in Kalispell March 29th. Fifty-one people attended the 3 ½ hour session at Snappy’s Sports Center. Trappers often get less than full value of their catch because of limited fur han-dling knowledge and skills. We showed and discussed a variety of fur handling equipment, demonstrated how to skin and prepare muskrat and beaver, and offered tips to improve efficiency and the quality of finished furs. Look for news of more fur handling clinics. This will increase the value of the furs you sell. I recently sold a beaver pelt at a fur auction for $44 when the average price was $17. It was the top priced beaver there. Know how helps! A spring trappers meeting was held for NW Montana with the MFW&P on April 5th in Kalispell. Thirty-one people attended, including MFW&P biologists and game wardens. At the meeting we agreed to request an increase in the Region 1 otter quota from 21 to 23. We agreed that the bobcat quota will remain the same at 275. We also re-quested that the use of snares be allowed for wolves on Private Property, where trapping is only by landowner per-mission anyway. We discussed “trapping reciprocity” with other states again and how it would benefit Montana trap-pers. I will provide a “pros and cons” statement about reciprocity next month. The meeting’s consensus was that Paul Fielder would continue as the MTA District 1 Director for another two years. Next year’s trappers meeting will be March 28, 2015.

The MontanaPLUS event advertised in this magazine for May 31st in Missoula is for us trappers and public land users. If we outdoorsmen can’t support an event like this, we don’t deserve the privileges we enjoy.

The last trapping issue to discuss is upcoming government elections. Most outdoorsmen just want to be left alone and not get involved in this topic. That is just what the people that are taking away our rights and freedoms are counting on. Just voting isn’t enough! Learn about the candidates before you vote. Ask them tough questions about where they stand on issues important to you. We spend more time figuring out where to hunt or trap than we do try-ing to figure out who we are putting in charge of decisions that affect our rights, freedoms, and money. Freedom isn’t free, we have to work to keep it. I’m more than happy to let you know who I support and oppose – and why (406 210-5943).

Fielder’ Tips Trapping tip – Mint flavored toothpaste makes a dandy muskrat lure. They like the minty smell, the white colored paste offers a visual attractant, it comes in a handy dispenser, and can be found cheaper than most muskrat lures.

Fur handling tip – Sawdust makes skinning and fleshing easier and cleaner. A fine textured sawdust supply can stop and soak up blood during skinning, adds more grit for better grip when fleshing fatty critters, and makes clean-up after fleshing easier. A little sawdust that might be left on the finished pelt doesn’t hurt its value.

Page 6 ◊ Montana Woods N Water ◊ May 2014 ◊ Fishing

Clark Fork River Fish Fight By Raf Viniard

When talking about fishing in Northwest Montana most folks think of wading out into a cold stream full of rising trout and fighting trout all day. That maybe true in some parts of the Clark Fork River but from Paradise, MT west past Plains, Thompson Falls, Trout Creek through the Noxon Reservoir onto the Idaho state line is well know for its warm water fishing. Not to men-tion the breathe taking views of pure Northwest Montana scenery.

Just recently an Idaho fisherman participating in a tournament being held on the Noxon Reservoir in Trout Creek, MT landed a 8.8 pound, 22.5 inches long, big mouth bass setting a new Montana record. Now that was a pole bending, drag squealing fight any fisherman would love to have.

Just google Montana bass fishing and you will see names like BASS, TBF, ABA and all those acronyms associated with the bass tournament fishing circuit. Boats costing thousands of dollars launch into the Noxon Reservoir every year bringing thousands of dollars into the Sanders County and Northwest Montana economy. Move over trout, the bass are fighting their way into the Montana record book.

Don’t have a boat...no problem. Do as the locales do...grab a pole, spinning reel or whatever you can find, lures, a bobber, hooks, sinkers, some worms or cut bait and plop a line in the river. The river may be well known for its large and smallmouth bass but it also has pumpkin seed, northern pike, yellow perch, walleye, crappie and even some black or yellow catfish. For you trout fisherman there are Brook, Brown, Rainbow, Bull and Cut Throat trout for your fish fighting fix.

Shon Johnson, Manager of S&S Sports, Inc. of Thompson Falls, MT fishes the Clark Fork River above and below the Thompson Falls dam and believes a state record smallmouth will be taken from the river soon. Shon sells boats and fishing gear not only to the locals but also to the out of town tournament circuit anglers Need to know what is biting and how to try and catch them? Drop in a see Shon for the latest info. Keep in mind it is called fishing not catch-ing but he only carries baits that he uses so I would listen closely, especially when it comes to bass and walleye fishing.

Let’s take this fish fight to a whole new level. A very feisty debate is taking place over the walleye that currently call the Clark Fork River home. Depending on who you talk to, some say the fish were introduced illegally and some say the fish were released by accident by the state. Either way the walleye are there to stay. How many will get to stay is still up in the air.

Kenneth Briedenger the Region 1 fisheries biologist responsible for that portion of the Clark Fork River claims the walleye is very destructive to the fishery and cre-ates an imbalance in the carrying capacity of all sport fish to include the bass fish-eries that Noxon Reservoir is well known for. They are not looking for an eradica-tion but a suppression of the species. Mr. Wozniak stated, “It is not just a warm-cold water issue. We have two major goals: Create diverse angling opportunities and preserve and protect native species...we are trying to find a good balance.”

The locals have a little different take on this matter. They want the walleye managed just like the trout, bass and other sport fish. Once you cross the Continental Divide to the east ,walleye fishing is a cash cow and a highly supported tournament fish. The Walleye is fighting and upstream battle to find its place in the Clark Fork River. Locales feel it is a fish they enjoy catching and eating and that their opinion on the matter should be taken more seriously and protect the spawning beds. This fish fight is long from over. Studies are still on going, various meetings and talking points are being discussed to determine the future of the wall-eye in the Clark Fork River/Noxon Reservoir. Until then; grab a pole, the kids, your wife, girlfriend, boyfriend or your best bud with a boat and go wet a hook.. As my Dad used to say, “Son, you can’t catch a fish unless your hook is in the water.”

Next month we will wade in deeper on this matter and shed some light on the many studies and reports that have been published. I want to hear from the Sanders County residents on this issue, email me at Raf@montanawoodsnwater.com

John Wozniak of Thompson Falls, MT with a nice walleye from the local waters.

Montana Woods N Water ◊ May 2014 ◊ Smoke Poles ◊ Page 7

Smoked Turkey - Montana Style! By Toby Bridges, Missoula

My Montana 2014 spring turkey hunt got off to a wet start. After spending the night at a friend's ranch near Trout Creek, I awoke shortly after 5 a.m. to the sound of pouring rain on the metal roof. Still, I jumped into camouflaged clothing and sipped on strong hot coffee until the first hint of daylight. The rain had lightened up, so I grabbed my big muzzleloading 10-gauge percussion double from the truck...and headed up to a blind we had already set. With the possibility of more rain, it just seemed like the best place to start the hunt.

Off and on all morning, it would rain a while, then snow a while. The turkeys weren't making a sound, but nearly 60 elk grazed in the meadow - and made for good company. The skies began to open up a bit...and far down a valley be-

low a couple of gobblers sounded off, then a few more several hundred yards off to the right of the blind, followed by another just across the meadow.

I had already decided that I would begin the hunt with an old box call I've used for more than 20 years - and just as I expected, the first soft and sweet yelps from the call were answered by the gobbles of at least seven or eight toms. A few minutes later, I made several more series of soft yelps with the call, and a couple of hens a hundred or so yards up the ridge behind me harshly yelped back at the calls - as if perturbed to hear a strange hen so close. I answered back with equally harsh yelps, and when one of the hens answered back, I cut her off with a couple of cuts on the call - fol-lowed by more hen trash talk.

The excited calling was immediately answered by dozens of surrounding gobbles. Then, far down the meadow, seven gobblers worked out into the open - and immediately spotted the hen decoy I had set out about 20 yards from the well concealed blind. Immediately they began walking up the hill toward the blind.

To hurry them along, I did a little clucking and purring on the call, throwing in a couple of soft yelps now and then. In an instant, all seven of the birds were coming on at a full run. Both hammers of the percussion muzzleloading shot-gun were at half cock. I glanced down to insure that the tiny copper No. 11 percussion caps were still in place on each nipple - and when I looked back up and out the small blind opening, I could see that some of the birds were almost in range - still running full hilt toward the decoy. My thumb pulled the right hammer to full cock, and I waited.

Five of the gobblers were jakes, or juveniles. However two were nice adult gobblers. When they reached the decoy, the two mature gobblers went into full strut, while the jakes just stood and watched. All were standing so close to one another, taking a shot was out of the question.

One of the bigger toms made a short strutting run past the decoy, and away from the

others. The bead of the shotgun was right on its head, and when the trigger came

back, a cloud of white smoke filled the damp morning air - blocking everything from

sight. But even before it thinned, I could hear the soft beat of a wing against the wet

ground. I had truly smoked a good Montana mountain gobbler - on Good Friday.

Page 8 ◊ Montana Woods N Water ◊ May 2014 ◊ A Hunter’s Life

Parky Kerr "Real hunters sharing a lifetime of hunting adventures."

By: Toby Walrath

Like many Montanans Thomas "Parky" Kerr started hunting at a young age to help keep the family food stores stocked. Those early days spent out with his uncle were the foundation of a lifetime of hunting adventure and shooting en-joyment. Parky never missed a day last season and once again fresh meat was harvested at the crack of his rifle, stocking his freezer for winter. Parky shared stories of camp life, the Bitterroot Valley and his view points on the past and future of our hunting heritage. When asked if he had lived in Victor, Montana his whole life he was quick to reply "Well not all of it, I ain't done yet!" With an old military sewing machine between us mounted on a small work table, Parky began sharing pieces of his hunting life. His walls are decorated with antiques and other sentimental collectibles depicting a man who values the events of his life. "I shot my first elk when I was nine years old. I never

knew you had to have a license back then, I just always hunted with my uncle Hank. We made our way along a hill in deep snow and found some elk tracks. My uncle took off running chasing those elk. I couldn't keep up with him as he ran through the snow. When he got to the bottom he saw the elk had gone through a fence and he just kept after them. I got to the fence and there was a calf elk just standing there so I shot it. A guy in military fatigues came over and started gutting my elk. After a while uncle Hank came back and put a stop to that. He asked the guy what he was doing and the guy said 'gutting an elk'. Uncle Hank said 'that ain't your elk' and he said "Well it would've been mine if I could've got my safety off!" Until joining the Navy in 1955 he hunted with a 30-30 model 94. In 1957 he bought a .308 model 88 while overseas. "I couldn't bring it on board unless an officer signed for it. It turns out the officer was from Spokane and when I told him my predicament he took care of it." Aside from the re-introduction of wolves, Parky thinks the biggest changes to hunting here in western Montana stem from the privatization of land and hunting pressure. "It's different, there's more pressure from hunters. We didn't have the hunters then that we've got now." Parky Kerr is the epitome of our hunting roots. His knowledge of re-loading, shooting, hunting, and woodsmanship were born out of necessity at a time when a well-placed bullet meant more than a set of trophy antlers. Our hunting heritage comes direct-ly from men like Parky Kerr and wisdom which can only be attained by living a hunter’s life. Born: December 13, 1937 Age: 77 Profession: Retired from Rocky Mountain Labs after 32 years (1961-1993) (and lots of dabbling) Favorite rifle: .308 model 88. While Parky has taken game with other r ifles, the .308 purchased for $87 has served him well as a meat gun over the years. "I just like lever guns". Hunting skills shared: Re-loading, shooting and hunting. (This man really knows about guns) Advice to the next generation: " People should exercise their r ight to bear arms. That's something I feel strongly about" Author’s favorite quote: " I think its par t of our her itage to be able to go out and get some meat." Interesting Artifacts: Old Copenhagen tins filled with elk ivor ies, more tins filled with bullets retr ieved from game over the years, a bear knife hanging on the wall, lots of fishing rods and a small library on re-loading, cigar boxes filled with brass shells of every shape and size and stories to go along with it all.

“Its not the years in your life but the life in your years.” Abraham Lincoln

Over 30 Years Experience

Auto Fire Home Health Life

ATVS ● Boats ● RVs ● Motor Homes

General Liability ● Farm Equipment ● Commercial Lines

406-826-3111

Montana Woods N Water ◊ May 2014 ◊ Her Page ◊ Page 9

“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” Mae West

Wild Turkey Recipe

Filet breast meat from breast bone and cut into strips about one inch thick.

Mix the following ingredients in a small sauce pan

1 Tbsp. kosher salt 1 Tbsp. coarse ground black pepper Small pinch of cayenne pepper 3 cloves of garlic, crushed and peeled 2-3 slices of Jalapeno Pepper finely chopped 1 Tbsp. bacon grease 1 Tbsp. salted butter

On low heat slowly stir to melt the bacon grease and butter. Let mixture rest for about 10 minutes or until cool enough you can rub the mixture on the meat. Next wrap the breast in bacon and fasten with wet toothpicks. Baste bacon with any remaining marinade.

Place in refrigerator until grill is ready.

Preheat grill to medium high. Remove turkey from fridge and place on hot grill for 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

Do not over cook!

Microwave Parmesan Bass Filets Filet fish, wash and pat dry about 1-2 pounds of bass Mix the following ingredients into a bowl. 1 Tsp. Garlic Salt 1/4 Tsp. of Dill Weed (No seeds) 2 Tbsp. Melted Unsalted Butter 1/2 Cup Parmesan Cheese 1/2 Cup Mayonnaise 3 Tbsp. finely chopped green or white onions Liberally coat fillets with mixture. Place on microwave proof dish and cook on high for 3+ minutes (time will depend on thickness of fillets). When you can stick a fork in it and it breaks apart it is done. Sprinkle with Paprika before serving.

Shauna McNeil of Plains, MT filled her 2013 fall deer tag with this tall 4 X 4. This was her first big buck. Shauna was with her husband when this old boy was seen hanging out with some mule deer doe and a smaller mule deer buck. This buck’s live weight was 262 pounds. Congrats!

Page 10 ◊ Montana Woods N Water ◊ May 2014 ◊ Sportsman’s Meds

Meditation - by Pastor Jim Sinclair

It was a beautiful sunny Sunday afternoon. The morning church service was over and I had a little time before the afternoon service started. Spring had sprung and I just couldn’t sit around the house any longer. I got on the phone and called a friend to discuss going on an ATV ride along the mountain roads. It didn’t take much to convince him and a few minutes later we were loading up the ATV’s and headed for the back mountain roads of Montana. We quickly unloaded the ATVs and rode down the road soaking up the spring smells and cool air. There is nothing like the cool spring air making your eyes water and blurring your vision while cruising the trails.

A quick glance ahead I saw the typical Montana truck approaching, with big mudder tires, flatbed with racks, cables strung up on the side, with three people jammed together in the cab. They pulled up alongside us checking us out looking to make conversation. The one that spoke was the burly type, you know, calloused hands, tatted biceps, long hair, red ban-dana and the two guys with HER weren’t “Twinkies” either.

After a short chit chat they quickly reminded us that the ticks were already getting bad. She reminded us of the other world, a world where there are these little insects called “Ticks” that love to ambush their next passing victim. As we wrapped up our conversation she said, “You guys be careful out there, these little insects are “Opportunists” and you can’t hardly see um, but they are looking for you. They want to burrow into your skin and take the very thing that gives you life. Be sure and check yourself when you get home, cause their sneaky.”

She took a swig off of her Red Bull and sped off. Well, I began to think of someone else who had left that advice in a similar way a long time ago.

He wrote it in the “Good Book” this way, “It is the little fox (tick) that spoils the vine” song of Solomon 2:15 we must constantly be on guard for the little things that sneak into our lives and wreak havoc, we must EXAMINE ourselves daily so as the world we are a part of doesn’t infect us with its “ticks” Unforgiveness, jealousy, hate, malice, envy, just to name a few. Keep liven the life but always be aware of your surroundings, influences and examine your life for what maybe keeping you from living the life the “Good Book” speaks of.

Medicine - Tick Tips - by Raf Viniard BEWARE - Ticks are already on the move. Ticks are known to carry Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Colorado Tick Fever, Tularemia, also know as “rabbit fever” and Lyme Dis-ease.

Think ahead before heading out to the woods and upon your return! ●Wear light colored clothing to allow you to see ticks crawling on you ●Tuck your pants legs into your socks ●Use repellants. Permethrin can be sprayed on your clothes and will last several days but

do not put it on your skin or breathe the fumes. Allow Permethrin to dry thoroughly before touching. DEET can be applied di-rectly to your skin and clothes as well. Use caution when using any kind of repellent on children...read the warning labels. ●Conduct a thorough body check when you get home or back to your vehicle. Take clothes off outside, place in closed garbage bag and wash in hot soapy water. If your pet went with you make sure they are not carrying ticks into your home or vehicle. ●If a tick is found on you crawling around...grab it with tissue and flush it. If the tick is already embedded, grasp the tick with very fine pointed tweezers as close to the skin as possible and gently tug being careful not to squeeze any of its body fluids into/onto the bite area. After removal, wipe the bite area down with soap and water or rubbing alcohol. If you start to feel ill contact your doctor. For safety precaution you may want to save the tick in an airtight container.

Family rooms with bunks ● Picnic area with gas grill ● Amenities ● Free Wi-Fi ● HBO programming ● Coffee, microwave, and hairdryer

Pastor Jim and his wife Renee

Accommodations

Jacuzzi Suites Family Vacations Hunting & Fishing Cabins Motel Rooms DSL Wireless Pet Friendly Water Front Views Full Bar

Where Memories Are Made!

Resort Facilities

Gift Shop Casino-Lounge Meeting - Banquet Room Lakeside Restaurant Lush Green Resort Grounds Fire Pit Private Boat Dock Wildlife Displays

A Place to Gather For…

Outdoor/Indoor Weddings Group Gatherings Business Conferences/Training Family Reunions Hunting & Fishing Trips

For those gatherings we have covered patio/dance floor Full bar and handicap restrooms

Lakeside Motel & Resort 2955 Hwy 200

Trout Creek, MT Reservations: 888-827-4458

Office Phone: 406-827-4458 Fax: 406-827-4026 www.lakeside-resort-motels.com OR www.mtlodging.com

E-Mail: vacation@lakeside-resort-motels.com Owners: John & Julie Harris

Page 12 ◊ Local Celebrities ◊ Montana Woods N Water ◊ May 2014

Barn Fur The barn photo contains 108 coyotes, 28 fox, 12 bobcats, 47 beaver, 2 wolves and 12 coons. The trappers are left to right, Jeff Rude, Jay VonHeeder and Dan Helterline holding the pink Cricket.

Dan Helterline

Big Bad Wolf Not So Bad Now!

Want to be a local celebrity? E-mail your pictures to:

Raf@montanawnoodsnwater.com

Paul & Senator Jennifer Fielder of Thompson Falls, MT with a days catch of muskrats.

Montana Woods

N Water

Living The Dream

Dustin Wagoner and his 5 year old son Westin with a pair of elk eaters. See page 18 for grandma’s story of the “Big Bad Wolves”

Mangy Moose ●Something For Everyone●

●GUNS & AMMO ●CAMO ●FISHING ●SCRAPBOOKING ●CLOTHES ●TOYS ●And so much more!

Come check us out Mon-Sat 9-6

Plains located on Main Street right next to the Library

Thompson Falls: 1902 Main St. next to Harvest Foods

Outdoor Politics ◊ Montana Woods N Water ◊ May 2014 ◊ Page 15

Tell Me No Lie By Raf Viniard

There are some good politicians out there that do what they were elected to do and to those we thank you and support you. I don’t know about the rest of you but politics often leaves a sour taste in my mouth because it seems they say one thing and do another, fold to political correctness, party line mumbo jumbo, or some lobbyist group flashes money in their face for their cause. Just follow the money or power and in most cases and you will find why your elected official has veered off course from their campaigning days. They took an oath to support and defend the constitution and to do that faithfully, truthfully, honestly and with integrity. They are supposed to represent the citizen and/or better yet the taxpayer that provides their salary. As outdoorsmen most of us just want to be left alone to enjoy our time outdoors without all the rules, regulations and political ma-neuverings. But who gets elected may very well determine what, where and when you can hunt , fish or trap. Your vote is very important to you as a sportsman, your kids or grandkids. Your right to carry a gun, hunt, fish or trap and carry on the Montana life style that you so enjoy may be at stake. When a candidate calls on you for their financial support or your vote, make sure you ask the right questions. I am sure you have some of your own but here are a few that YOU as a sportsman need to know where they stand. Make them answer a simple YES or NO answer...that is if they want your vote or money or both. Discussion on these topics can continue after you get a clear an-swer. Most importantly get out and vote! Do you support regulated public hunting and trapping of wolves in Montana? YES or NO Do you support the ballot initiatives that would ban regulated trapping on all public lands in Montana? YES or NO There are 7 MFW&P regions in Montana and 5 FW&P Commissioners. Would you support expanding the MFW&P Commis-sion to establish one Commissioner from each region? YES or NO Do you support the Confederated Salish-Kootenai Tribes proposed water compact in NW Montana? YES or NO

Do you think the Endangered Species Act should be repealed? YES or NO

Do you think that the public involvement in fish, wildlife and natural resource issues in Montana should be limited to Montana residents? YES or NO

Do you support the idea of “free ranging bison” in eastern Montana? YES or NO

Do you think the public lands in Montana would be best managed by the state or federal government? STATE or FEDERAL Do you support the 2nd Amendment, my right to own and carry a firearm? Will you stand against any Federal agency that attempts to confiscate my firearms? YES or NO Do you believe in term limits for Congress? YES or NO

“That government is best which governs least, because its people discipline themselves. If we are directed from Washington (heads of an organization) when to sow and when to reap, we will soon want for bread.” ― Thomas Jefferson

Page 16 ◊ Montana Woods N Water ◊ May 2014 ◊ Outdoor Vets

Don Kunzer – Patriot Sportsman By Raf Viniard

Don Kunzer, Plains, MT Born: 2 May 1945

Military Service:

US Army Reserve Retired/E-8 Fist Sergeant Drafted Oct 1965 – US Army Infantry Mar 1966 – 1967 Phonc Binh, Vietnam 1981 – 2005 US Army Reserve 2002 – Uzbekistn, Afghanistan Total Years of Service – 27 Years

Not only has Don had a long military career serving his country but is a very accomplished outdoorsman. After re-turning from Vietnam he returned to Illinois and worked in the construction industry. In 1970 he moved to Alaska. While in Alaska he worked in construction during the summer and during the winter guided many a hunters to taking some of America’s largest big game animals from Grizzly to Caribou and everything in between. In 1979 he moved to Plains, MT where he and his wife Sharon of forty-four years resides. Don and Sharon have one son and one daughter.

His trophy room represents his experience as an accomplished outdoorsman. He has whitetail and mule deer mounts that would easily impress Michael Waddell or any TV hunting show hosts. Continued on page 18

VFW Post 3596 201 West Lynch

Plains, MT

2014 1st Place Trapping Shooting Team

Join us at the 4th of July In The Park - Free Food

Rent Our Banquet Hall with 250 Seating Capacity

Full Kitchen Available

Come bowl with us Eight Lanes Open

Community Contributions:

Up to $4,000.00 in local college scholarships Various Sports Clubs

Memberships $40.00 a Year—Bring your DD Form 214

Quartermaster: Joe Eisenbrandt Bar Manager/Banquet Hall Rental contact Jackie Cooney

406-826-5960

News from the Plains Trap Club By Jim Foster

Plains trap club annual spring turkey shoot was held on

Saturday, 12 April. Activities got going around 10:00 am.

The rain held off till mid afternoon. We enjoyed mostly dry

shooting but a little cool.

With around 50 shooters there was a steady stream of

shooting events. Turkeys, hams or bacon was awarded to

the winners of each event. Being it was the first day of

spring turkey season we had a fair amount of successful

turkey hunters. With a total of 80 awarded prizes donated

by the local VFW it was a fun day for all.

The Hack & Blast is set for May 17th. It is a shooting and

golfing event. It has a limited amount of teams and the

registration is currently maxed out. Our June ATA shoot will be held on June 12-13. All are welcome to participate

or just stop by to see what its all about. We have open shooting on Thursday evenings at 6:00 & Sundays at 2:00.

Visit our web page for information and up coming events at www.plainstrapclub.com.

Montana Woods N Water ◊ May 2014 ◊ Public Land Access ◊ Page 17

There Is An App For That By: Raf Viniard

Over the course of the next few months we will be looking at your options and suggesting ways to unlock lands to hunt,

fish, trap or travel across that you may have thought was inaccessible. But for now you may have to look no fur-ther than the phone you carry everyday.

For you tech savvy type outdoorsmen that enjoys trying the latest and greatest gadgets, the hunt apps may just be the ticket. Whether you carry an iPhone or Android type phone there is an app that you can download that gives you the information you seek or wish to store for later use. There are so many options and features it is best to just google hunting apps and look at all the options and features that best meet your needs. Some have a cost and others are free. These apps will provide you with the ability to hunt smarter not harder.

As far as hunting locally here in NW Montana, we are blessed with an abundant amount of timber companies, as well as state and federal lands with easy access. There are some private tracks that may or may not be open to you the sportsman. Either way the starting point is to find out who owns the land and what are the boundaries. It may not always be about hunting the land but gaining access to reach a piece of public land or hunting area that would otherwise require hours of walking, windshield time or both.

If you live in NW Montana and want to hunt eastern Montana this may take some serious leg work, a lot of knocking on doors, phone calls, money, time or all the above.

For those sportsmen that prefer to keep it low tech, you will have to make many phone calls, networking and pos-sibly some trips to the area. The county tax office for the area you want to hunt will have an address for the land-owners in which you can send them a letter. Some land-owners live out of state which will require more time. Some may require a trespass fee or other compensation.

Always remember to present yourself to a landowner in a professional and courteous manner. Using good manners and a thank you whether you get permission or not may pave the road to locked lands that others only dream about hunting or fishing. Offering to help the landowner with chores or sharing your game may just get your tag punched this year.

Montana Woods N Water wants to hear from anyone using phone apps and the reliability of the phone’s GPS when hunting in the mountains so that we may share it with our readers. If you have other secrets to unlocking hunting and fishing opportunities drop us e-mail.

Page 18 ◊ Montana Woods N Water ◊ May 2014 ◊ Camp Fire Talk

Region 1 Wolf Harvest Stats

By Paul C Fielder

During the 2013-14 wolf season, 228 wolves were harvested in Montana - 142 by hunting and 86 by trap-

ping. That compares to a total harvest of 225 wolves, with 128 by hunting and 97 by trapping the previ-

ous season. This past season, 117 of the 228 wolves harvested in Montana (51%) were harvested in Re-

gion 1 plus the nearby wolf unit #200 in Mineral County. Eighty-six of the 228 total wolves harvested in

Montana (38%) were taken by trapping. But, 47% of the 117 wolves taken in Region 1 plus unit #200

were taken by trapping. This data shows that a very large portion of the wolves taken in Montana are tak-

en in NW Montana and that trapping is a very important wolf management tool in NW Montana. Har-

vest info is from MFW&P website. Photo: Dan Helterline with wolf No. 2

Located:

Between Thompson Falls & Trout Creek Mile Marker 42 1/2.

We carry hunting, fishing and archery equipment

Spinning Reel Combos as low as $10.00 Power Baits ● Live Bait

Checkout our selection of long guns, handguns and ammo

We will consider trade-ins and consignments

Hoyt Distributor Full archery tune-up shop

Check out our Badland Back Packs

Don was asked, “What is the biggest changes to Montana hunting you have seen over the years?” Don replied, “The big-gest thing is the massive drop in game since the introduction of the wolf. On a bright side there is a lot more game in my yard than there used to be be-cause they are afraid to stay up in the mountains and just feel safer down here around our home.”

His favorite hunting rifle is a Remington 700, 7 mag. From the looks of his walls he is very good with it and it has served him well. Don loves to hunt antelope with his Browning 22-250 and uses a Seiko 338 for moose.

Don doesn’t just hunt fur, but feathers as well. He loves to hunt pheasants with his friends and the occasional grouse or turkey. A goose is not safe from Don’s Remington 870 ei-ther. Don gets plenty of practice shooting trap. Don is on the local VFW Trap Shooting Team in which they took first place this year. Don assists students of the local hunter ed-ucation courses in the role of a shooting instructor.

If there is a hunting season open, Don is ready to go even at the young age of 69 and probably can out walk most. What advice does Don give to the next generation of hunter? “Do it now while you can!” Don has served his country with honor and distinction and lives the Montana dream. We thank you Don for your service and salute you.

Grandma’s Version of the “Big Bad Wolves”

Our son Dustin Wagoner and 4 year old grandson Westin were driving the road looking for wood trees. Dustin spot-ted one, stopped, rolled down the window and heard wolves howling on the ridge above them. Dustin grabbed his 223 with 4 bullets and Westin grabbed his toy rifle and up the hill they hiked so they could see the ridge. Dustin spotted a wolf over 300 yards up the hill and shot at it, it ran off so Dustin started howling. Here came at least 6 more wolves running straight toward them. He took his 2nd and 3rd shots at 160 & 150 yards and dropped these

two. With 1 bullet left, the rest of the pack ran off. He said Westin never panicked but he about did. The female weighed 50# and the male 62#. The game warden figured they were under a year old. Never being so close to a wolf before the first thoughts were, my what big bright WHITE teeth you have, you’re sure in good shape, must be eating well, and phew, you sure do stink. Grandma Len & Grandpa Carleen Wagoner Plains, MT

Outdoor Vets Continued His study is adorned with cougars, moose and elk just to name a few. Sitting atop his glass display of the many medals, decora-tions, badges and memorabilia of 27 years of military service, a photo album the size of an old Sears & Roebuck catalog reflects many memories of game animals he has taken over the years. Don states, “My favorite animal to hunt is the elk, they are the big-gest challenge. I hunt it all; antelope, bear, deer, moose and cats. I fish a little but I am not as good at that as I am hunting.”

W.H.P Technology can take you from meltdowns

caused by….

Slow Running Computer Forgotten Desktop Password

Infections From A Virus or Malware Windows XP Concerns

Needing Windows 8 Training...

To Productive & Happiness Again

Services Offered:

Virus Removal System Clean up

Password Recovery Hardware & Software

Upgrades and Accessories Networking

Web Design & Hosting Laptop & Desktop Repair

406-826-2786 Kevin.Olfert@whpTech.com

333 Railroad Avenue

Plains, MT 59859

Page 20 ◊ Montana Woods N Water ◊ May 2014 ◊ The Next Generation

13 year old Tanner Ovitt of Plains, MT with a nice cow elk. This young man used a 300 Win Mag to bring the meat home.

Natural Born Killer - Alexis Helterline of Plains, MT is a dog gone good shot...yes she harvested all these animals except the badger in forefront of picture.

Jay VonHeeder of Plains, MT started off his trapping career with a nice song dog...congrats Jay.

“The Next Generation” of outdoorsmen is up to us. Parents and grandparents brag about your kids and grandkids! Send those pictures and stories to:

Raf@montanawoodsnwater.com.

“Take your kids hunting or you will end up hunting for your kids.” Ted Nugent-God, Guns, & Rock ‘N’ Roll

Please Support Our Advertisers

Cheap Advertising!

Place Your Small Business Card Ad here for only $20.00 a month. Buy three months or more and get discount.

Many a small thing has been made large by the right kind of advertising. Mark Twain

Large Business Card Ad

Only $30.00

New Bows For Bears & Long Beards By Zach Butcher

Well spring has finally come, the turkeys are gobbling and the bears are waking up, but spring doesn’t just mean new life. It also means new bows! That’s right all the bow companies have their new bows sitting on the shelf at your local archery shop just waiting for you. So break out that tax refund and head to your local bow shop. Some of these bows have some very shocking speeds.

Before we get into the new bows let’s talk about two solid broadheads that I hunt with and that will do the job on a spring bear. Both blades are made by Trophy Taker and can be viewed on their website at www.trophytaker.com.

For a fixed blade I recommend The Shuttle T Lock. This broadhead has a 1 1/8 inch cutting surface and comes in 100-125 grains. For an expandable broadhead, I would go with the Ulmer Edge. It expands to 1 1/2 inches of cutting surface and also comes in 100 and 125 grains. Ei-ther of these broadheads if placed correctly will do the job.

Now let’s look at some of the new bows starting with the Mathew’s Creed XS. The Creed XS is a great looking bow it has a very smooth draw cycle thanks to its SimPlex cam. It has a very forgiving brace height of 7 ½” and an axle-to-axle length of 28”. The draw length on the Creed XS ranges from 26” to 30” and draw weights from 50lbs to 70lbs. It boasts a IBO speed of 321fps and a mass weight of 3.80 pounds. When you add that all up what you get is a very smooth drawing and shooting bow that is perfect for the blind or the tree stand as well as the brush. All in all this is a great bow for someone that is looking for a bow that is easy to shoot and carry in the field.

Now for the archer that is looking for a bow with a longer Axle-to-Axle and more arrow speed you may want to give the Mathew Chill R a good look. The Chill R is available in draw lengths from 23-30” and draw weights from 50-70lbs. The dual cams on the Chill R give you a smooth draw cycle which yields an arrow speed of 342fps. Making the Chill R great for hunting or target shooting.

Hoyt also came out with two flagship bows, the Carbon Spyder and the Factor. Both bows are available in 30” and 34” Axle-to-Axle lengths. The 30” bows have an IBO speed of 332fps and the 34” bows have an IBO speed of 330fps. The 30” models offer a draw length range of 24-30” and draw weights form 40-80lbs. The 34” models have a standard draw length range of 25-31” and a long draw option that ranges from 31.5-32”. The draw cycle on both models are very smooth making them a pleasure to shoot. The Carbon Spyder coupled with some light accessories would give you the ideal bow for backcountry hunting or the archer that just wants a lighter set up.

Bowtech also came out with a couple of new bows this year with their top bow being the RPM 360. That’s right the IBO on this bow is 360fps, but don’t let that scare you, the RPM 360 is very smooth drawing and quiet shooting bow. The RPM 360 has an adjustable draw range of 24-30” right on the cam and is available in draw weights from 50-70lbs. If you’re looking for a bow that’s easy to draw with blazing arrow speed you need to take a look at this bow. Here is another bow that is ideal for an archer looking for a light set up, the Carbon Overdrive. The Axle-to-Axle is 31.5” with an IBO speed of 342fps and an adjustable draw length from 25-30”. The Carbon Overdrive is available in draw weights from 50-70lbs and with its carbon riser the mass weight of the bow is a staggering 3.3lbs. This bow is a Bowtech Destroyer on ster-oids.

There you have it, the main line of bows from three of the top bow companies. If you didn’t see a bow that was quite what you

are looking for be sure to call your dealer and ask what other bows Mathews, Hoyt and Bowtech carry that might be the one for

you.

Now’s the time to get a new bow so that you have time to learn the mechanicals of your bow and get plenty of range time in

before archery deer and elk season that is only about three and half months away.

Page 22 ◊ Montana Woods N Water ◊ May 2014 ◊ Archery Talk

Sig reminds everyone about the upcoming May Paint Sale

May 18 - 13 Get a $5.00 Mail In Rebate per gallon on all Valspar Medallion Paints

Spring Has Sprung! We carry a full line of Scotts soils and

fertilizers

For Those Farm and Home Repair Projects we have: Building Materials ● Hardware ● Lawn & Garden ● Kitchen ●

Housewares ● Canning Supplies ● Fencing

Sig

Shuttle T-Lock Ulmer Edge