Severe damage was done to a latrine between August 18th and August 21st at Pirogue Island State Park north of Miles City. If anyone knows any details or has any information regarding this vandalism, your assistance is greatly appreciated. Please call local game warden Todd Anderson at 234-0916, Regional Parks Operation manager Cathy Stewart at 234-0926 or the local Sheriffs office at 874-3320. You can also call FWP's toll free hotline at 1-800-TIP-MONT and remain anonymous if you choose.
(Parks - August 31, 2007)

The last official weekend of “summer” is here, but the fishing action is far from over. In fact, lower water temperatures resulting from the longer, colder nights will cause fishing action to pick up across much of the state. Enjoy the long weekend, and make sure to leave some time for fishing with family and friends.
(Fishing - August 31, 2007)

There will be several opportunities to take Hunter Education in Missoula this fall. Registration for fall classes is set for Tuesday, Sept. 18, 7-8:30 p.m. at the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks office in Missoula, 3201 Spurgin Road.
(Headlines - August 31, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) will offer a boating education class on Thursday, Sept. 13 from 6:30-9 p.m., at the FWP office in Missoula, 3201 Spurgin Road.
(Headlines - August 31, 2007)

A hot, dry summer and multiple wildfires can mean bear trouble. Trouble for bears and trouble with bears. During this time of year bears are vacating the high elevations and searching for food and relief in lower elevation river valleys—areas where we live and play. With backyard bear encounters on the rise over the past few weeks and hunting season openers right around the corner, now is the time to remember a few important tips on living and recreating with bears.
(Headlines - August 31, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment on two Yellowstone River fishing regulation changes recently added to proposed regulations that would take effect next year. One proposal is to eliminate the special regulations in the Emigrant Bridge to Pine Creek Bridge section of the Yellowstone River, thus resulting in consistent trout regulations from Yellowstone Park to the I-90 bridge at Billings.
(Fishing - August 31, 2007)

Good overwinter survival of adult antelope has been moderated by poor fawn production across much of northeast and north-central Montana.
(Headlines - August 30, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has acted to lift the fishing closure on the Thompson River.
(Headlines - August 30, 2007)

State and federal wildlife officials are looking for information about four eagles that were poisoned last spring.             In April, a Fish, Wildlife and Parks game warden received a call from a concerned landowner about several dead birds in a field northeast of Choteau. The dead birds turned out to be three golden eagles and a bald eagle. They died from eating poisoned meat. The U.S.
(Headlines - August 29, 2007)

Ulm Pishkun State Park southwest of Great Falls has a new name: First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park. “The name of the park should evoke a sense of unity, peace and cultural sensitivity,” says Richard Hopkins, Fish, Wildlife and Parks state park manager. Part of the need for a change, Hopkins said, is to avoid confusion with the public. Pishkun is a Blackfeet word that means corral, but Ulm comes from a German homesteader in the area. And 14 different tribes used the jump.
(Headlines - August 29, 2007)

State fisheries biologists have decided to drop the afternoon and evening fishing restrictions on the Smith River in north central Montana starting Aug. 30. Recent cool and occasional wet weather have lowered water temperatures to below 70 degrees for more than three consecutive days. The river was closed to fishing Thursday, July 12, 2007 from 2 p.m.
(Headlines - August 29, 2007)

Upland bird hunters should find mostly average to above average conditions this fall in north central Montana, state wildlife biologists say. Hunting season starts statewide Sept. 1 for Hungarian partridge and sharp-tailed, sage and mountain grouse. For pheasants, the season begins Oct. 13. Sage grouse populations are spotty in Fish, Wildlife and Parks Region 4, north central Montana. Better populations exist in eastern Montana.
(Headlines - August 29, 2007)

Agenda items include an overview of options for state management of wolves, proposed fishing and big-game hunting regulations and a presentation by American Prairie Foundation.
(Headlines - August 29, 2007)

The public is invited to FWP's Region 6 headquarters in Glasgow to view a replica of the 29.7-pound channel catfish caught last year in Nelson Reservoir.
(Headlines - August 29, 2007)

The public is welcome to stop by FWP's Region 6 office in Glasgow between 1:30 and 4 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 30 to participate in a special FWP Commission meeting being conducted via conference call.
(Headlines - August 29, 2007)

Winning posters from the annual Montana State Parks poster contest are on display at the Great Falls regional Fish, Wildlife & Parks office through Sept. 7. First place went to Eliza Spogis of Hawthorne School in Bozeman. Her poster of Bannack State Park pictured her family viewing the main street of Bannack. Rendered in pencils, the quality of the drawing was remarkable.
(Headlines - August 29, 2007)

Among the recently proposed fishing regulations for 2008-2010 are several that could directly affect north central Montana anglers. Fish, Wildlife and Parks is in the middle of a public comment period on proposed fishing regulations for the next two years. The comment period ends Sept. 14. Anglers can write FWP, Fisheries, 1420 E. 6 th Ave., P.O. Box 200701, Helena, MT 59620-0701 or send comments by e-mail to: fwpfsh@mt.gov .
(Headlines - August 29, 2007)

A special deer management hunt is planned in Colstrip for archery hunters.
(Hunting - August 28, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ Region 7 Citizen Advisory Council (CAC) will meet on Wednesday, September 12 in Miles City. The meeting is scheduled from 4-8:30 p.m. at the BLM Office in the main conference room on Garryowen Road .
(Inside FWP - August 28, 2007)

Upland bird hunters should find mostly average to above average conditions this fall in north central Montana, state wildlife biologists say. Hunting season starts statewide Sept. 1 for Hungarian partridge and sharp-tailed, sage and mountain grouse. For pheasants, the season begins Oct. 13. Sage grouse populations are spotty in Fish, Wildlife and Parks Region 4, north central Montana. Better populations exist in eastern Montana.
(Hunting - August 28, 2007)

A Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks employee was bitten by a black bear this morning during a trapping operation in the South Fork of the Flathead River Drainage above Hungry Horse Reservoir.
(Headlines - August 28, 2007)

Registration is now open for the annual Trapper Education Course, which will be held Saturday, October 13, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Lawrence Park in Kalispell.
(Headlines - August 27, 2007)

Eureka's hunter education class starts on Monday, September 10th with registration and introduction at 7:00 pm at the Eureka Middle School Library.
(Headlines - August 27, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has released a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for review and public comment regarding a proposal to grant funds to Yaak Rod & Gun Club, Inc. for a Shooting Range Development Grant project.
(Headlines - August 27, 2007)

Fish, Wildlife & Parks' (FWP) Region 1 Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) will meet on Wednesday, September 5.
(Headlines - August 27, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comments on proposed fishing regulation changes, which will be finalized by the FWP Commission at its meeting in October.
(Headlines - August 27, 2007)

Laurel High School will offer the first Hunter Education class session for this fall. Registration is Tuesday, September 4 at 6:30 p.m. with classes September 10 through September 14. The field course will be Saturday, September 15 at the Laurel Rod & Gun Club in Riverside Park. Call lead instructor Irv Wilke at 670 6268 for additional information about the Laurel session.
(Headlines - August 27, 2007)

Deer, Elk, Bison, Antelope & Lion Supertag Winners Announced   Hunters from Montana, Washington, and Colorado recently won Montana's deer, elk, antelope, bison, and mountain lion SuperTag lotteries. The SuperTag winners are: ·         Deer: David Randall; Puyallup, Wash.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Applications are now available for tundra swan hunting permits for the 2007-08 season. Hunters must apply by Sept. 7 for a swan permit and may select only one flyway. The seasons, which will be made final Aug. 30, are expected to run Sept. 29-Jan. 3 in the Central Flyway and Oct. 13-Dec. 1 in the Pacific Flyway. Tundra sawn permit applications are available at all FWP offices, or visit FWP's website at fwp.mt.gov on the Hunting page.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

With the fall waterfowl flights shaping up to be similar to last season, Montana duck and goose hunters can look forward to a continuation of liberal seasons and regulations. Overall, breeding duck numbers across a large portion of Canada that supply birds to Montana's fall hunting were up from last year.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks reminds black bear hunters that licenses must be purchased by Friday, Aug. 31, for the fall season.  Hunters may purchase a license on the Internet at fwp.mt.gov under Hunting, or at FWP regional offices and FWP license providers. Fall black bear season generally is between Sept. 15-Nov. 25. All mail-in applications must be postmarked no later than Aug. 31. The cost of a black bear license is $19 for residents and $350 for nonresidents.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Mountain lion hunting licenses for Montana’s 2007 season are available at all Fish, Wildlife & Parks license providers, online at fwp.mt.gov , or through the mail. Hunters have until Aug. 31 to apply for one of the special permit districts, or to purchase and validate their license for either the fall or winter season. To hunt mountain lions in Montana, prospective hunters must either purchase a license or apply for a special permit, they cannot do both.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

The Private Land/Public Wildlife Council will meet Sept. 11-12 in Helena at the Guest House Inn & Suites, 2101 11th St., to discuss hunting and fishing access issues.   The meeting will begin Tuesday, Sept. 11 at 1 p.m. and continue Wednesday, Sept. 12 from 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission recently set the final furbearer quotas for the 2007 and 2008 trapping seasons. Changes for the upcoming seasons include increased quotas for bobcat in furbearer districts three and five. In District 7 the otter quota increased from two to four otter. The quota in two of the three wolverine management units decreased.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Hunters more than most folks are aware of when daylight saving time ends each fall—usually the end of October—because it affects when sunrise and sunset occurs. Authorized hunting hours adopted by the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission begin one-half hour before sunrise and end one-half hour after sunset each day. This year some hunters may be surprised to find that the Energy Policy Act of 2005 has affected the starting and ending dates of daylight saving time beginning this year.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Off-highway vehicles, including motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), quadricycles, dune buggies, amphibious vehicles and air cushion vehicles, have registration and use rules that are worth reviewing before setting off on a hunt. On most public lands, OHVs are required to stay on designated routes determined by the land management agency responsible for those lands. It is also illegal to retrieve harvested wild game by going cross-country, or going off designated routes.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

It’s time for hunters who plan to hunt on private land to be thinking about securing permission from landowners. Montana law requires hunters to obtain permission for ALL hunting on private land.   Whether pursuing upland game birds, coyotes, gopher or big game, hunters must ask permission from the landowner before hunting on private property.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Women interested in hunting waterfowl this fall are invited to attend a clinic on Saturday, Sept. 15, in Great Falls to help prepare for the hunt season. Participants will learn to pattern shotguns, identify waterfowl, target shoot, use duck calls, estimate distances when shooting, and decoy placement.   Participants can bring their own shotgun or one will be provided.   Instructors will share information on waterfowl regulations, hunting etiquette, and dog handling.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Women interested in hunting deer or elk this fall are invited to attend an educational clinic sponsored by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. The Deer and Elk Hunting Clinic is set to begn Friday evening, Sept. 7 and end at noon on Sunday, Sept. 9 at the National Bison Range near Charlo.   Participants will learn about deer biology and habitat, hunting techniques and equipment, hunting regulations, and field dressing.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Off Highway Vehicle Advisory Committee will meet in Helena Sept. 16, 10 a.m.- 3 p.m., at the Super 8 Motel, 2200 11 th Ave. The committee, representing off highway vehicle trial groups, was formed by FWP to review proposed updates to the annual grants program and to consider allocating special funds earmarked for trail improvements.
(Parks - August 24, 2007)

Montana State Parks are "Real Montana, Real Close." These parks annually offer a rich selection of ways to experience and learn about Montana, including storytelling, demonstrations, and presentations on biology, archaeology, and history. For a full list of events scheduled at Montana State Parks this summer, please visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks web site at fwp.mt.gov on the Parks and Recreation page. Cultural Encampment and Atlatl Event Ulm Pishkun State Park Sept.
(Parks - August 24, 2007)

Hunters who take to the field for Montana’s big game archery season beginning Sept. 1 may see a continuation of this summer's hot dry weather. It can be tough to stalk big game when every blade of grass rattles and every twig snaps.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Five yearling cattle were recently confirmed injured by wolves on a federal grazing allotment southwest of Drummond. USDA Wildlife Services confirmed the depredations on Aug. 22.
(Headlines - August 24, 2007)

Opening day for most upland game bird hunting seasons occur on the same day every year—Sept. 1.   The statewide hunting season openings are: ·         Sage Grouse                           Sept. 1––Nov.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

In Montana, upland game birds consist of sage and sharp-tailed grouse, blue, ruffed and Franklin’s grouse, pheasants, Hungarian (grey) partridge, and wild turkeys. Most upland game bird seasons begin Sept. 1. The exception is the ring-necked pheasant opener, which is set for Oct. 13. Upland bird seasons run through Jan.1, 2008—with the exception of sage grouse season, which closes Nov. 1, and mountain grouse season, which closes Dec. 15 .
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Montana's upland game bird hunters appear to have a favorable season of hunting ahead. "An open, mild winter made for good bird survival," said Rick Northrup, FWP upland and migratory bird coordinator. "Wet weather across most of the state into early June also favored birds. Timely spring moisture is very important for insect production and for providing good nesting and brood-rearing cover." Most upland game bird hunting seasons open Sept. 1. The pheasant season opens Oct. 13.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Is upland game bird hunting as good today as it was 20 years ago? For those interested in the game bird harvest in Montana last year compared with the long-term average, here are the stats: Statewide harvest by species     20-year average         2006 estimate ·         Pheasant                                  132,000               155,000 Gray Partridge                           4 7,000                  44,000 Sharp-tailed grouse                 56,000                  49,000 Sage grouse                             10,800                   4,900 Blue grouse                             19,500                  20,000 Ruffed grouse                             28,000                  29,000 Spruce grouse                              5,500                   4,100   Most upland game bird hunting seasons open Sept. 1. The pheasant season opens Oct. 13. Upland bird seasons run through Jan. 1—with the exception of sage grouse season, which closes Nov. 1, and mountain grouse season, which closes Dec. 15. …
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Pheasant hunters, don't be caught without one leg and foot left naturally attached for identification of sex on all birds.   The leg and foot must be attached at all times while transporting the bird. For other game birds such as grouse and partridge, one fully-feathered wing must be left naturally attached for species identification.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

The 1,000 volunteers who teach Hunter Education would like to remind all hunters of the three basic rules of gun safety: 1)       always point any shooting device in a safe direction 2)       be sure of your target and what is beyond and 3)       treat every gun as if it were loaded Hunting is a very safe activity.   It is up to each hunter to make responsible decisions to keep it that way.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

The seven-year itch has caught up with Montana’s 2007 antelope and pheasant hunting seasons. This year the pheasant season will open Oct. 13 and run through Jan. 1, 2008. The general antelope season will run Oct. 7 through Nov. 11. In Montana, the general antelope season opener is set by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission policy for the second Sunday in October, with the pheasant season set to open the day before, on Saturday.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Montana’s archery-only hunting season for deer, elk and antelope begins Sept. 1. Montana's big game regulations specify the criteria that archery equipment must meet to be legal, for instance, crossbows are prohibited during the archery-only hunting season, though they may be used during the general hunting season.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

With elk archery season opening Sept. 1, and backcountry elk season set to open Sept. 15, no elk hunter wants to shoot the wrong elk in the right place, or the right elk in the wrong place. Elk hunters have to know their bulls. An antlered bull elk is any elk with an antler or antlers at least four inches in length measured from the top of the skull.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

A bowhunter needs to be sneaky, with “no-scent” on, and camouflaged to look like a bush. While that’s what it takes to get close enough for a good shot with a bow and arrow, that hunter is making it hard for a bear to notice him or her. A bear’s usual early warning systems of sound and smell can be scrambled by bowhunters, resulting in surprise encounters. In recent years, grizzly bear populations have expanded and these bears are venturing back into some historic ranges.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks reminds bear hunters that licenses must be purchased by Aug. 31 for fall black bear hunting season Black bear hunters are required to complete the Black Bear Identification Test and must present a certificate of completion to purchase a hunting license. The program aims to prevent mistaken identify killings of grizzly bears and to help Montana maintain its black bear hunting season.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

The black bear hunting season reopens for the fall on Sept. 15 in most areas of Montana. Hunters should check the regulations for exceptions. Under Montana law, bear meat, or the meat from any other big game animal, can not be wasted, thrown away, left in the field or allowed in any other way to become unfit for human consumption.   A hunter is also prohibited from abandoning in the field the head or hide of a harvested black bear.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission recently adopted final 2007 hunting regulations and season dates for "webless" migratory game birds. The hunting-season framework for Montana's webless migratory game birds—mourning doves, common snipe and sandhill cranes—will follow federal recommendations and remain similar to last season. Dove and snipe seasons open Sept. 1. Most other waterfowl seasons open later in September .
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Everyone who hunts doves, ducks, geese, sandhill cranes, snipe, or coots in Montana   must be "HIP" certified for the upcoming hunting seasons. HIP stands for Harvest Information Program, and certification delivers essential information to wildlife biologists so they can better manage wildlife resources in Montana and the United States. The program is entering its eighth season. Most waterfowl seasons open in Montana later in September, but the dove and snipe seasons open Sept. 1.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Antelope 900 series archery             Aug. 15––Nov. 11 Antelope archery                         Sept. 1––Oct. 13 Antelope general             Oct. 7––Nov.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Montana's early hunting seasons will proceed wherever lands remain open. Montana's first hunting season, limited to about 5,500 archery-only antelope hunters with a special license applied for in the spring, opened Aug. 15. The upland game bird season is scheduled to open Sept. 1, as will Montana's big game archery seasons.   Most moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat seasons will open Sept. 15.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks toll-free hotline for reporting wildlife poaching, property damage, and violations of fish and game laws is in operation 24 hours a day. TIP-MONT is the acronym for Turn In Poachers—Montana.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Veterans will enjoy discounts and new opportunities during Montana's 2007 hunting season. Certain Montana resident members of the Montana National Guard on federal reserve and active duty are entitled to a free conservation license or a sportsman without bear license. One must have participated in a contingency operation outside of the state for two months after September 11, 2001 and have been released from active duty or discharged. These licenses will be issued for a fee of $2 only at FWP offices.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

It's time for all hunters who haven't already asked permission from private landowners to hunt to do so as soon as possible.   Montana law requires hunters to obtain permission for ALL hunting on private land.   No matter whether pursuing upland game birds, coyotes, gopher or any other wildlife, hunters must have permission from the landowner before hunting on private property.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Officials at biological checking stations gather information needed to manage the state's wildlife resources. When hunters stop at biological checking stations, they may be asked a variety of questions including how many deer, elk or antelope they saw and in which drainages or general locations their hunting took place. Hunters should remember that state law requires them to stop at all game checking stations on their routes of travel to and from hunting areas.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks requests that hunters report any sightings or signs of wolves.  A gray wolf is, on average 2.5 feet tall; 5-6 feet long; 70-120 pounds with a broad snout, round ears and fur ranging from gray, black or tan to white. FWP must prepare annual reports to document the recovered status and distribution of the Montana wolf population.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Noxious weeds—like knapweed, leafy spurge and Canada thistle— are spreading across Montana. Hunters need to be aware of these silent invaders.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Hunters interested in obtaining access to more than eight million acres of private lands enrolled in FWP's Block Management Program may contact the regional FWP office in the area where they plan to hunt, or check the "Hunting" pages on the FWP web site at fwp.mt.gov . Gaining access to hunt on a Block Management Area is easy.
(Hunting - August 24, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) issued a decision notice to proceed with a donation of 40 acres of land adjacent to Kelly Island Fishing Access Site (FAS). The notice came at the end of a 30-day public comment period and calls for final approval by the FWP Commission.
(Headlines - August 24, 2007)

Good news for anglers has finally arrived this week with refreshing, cooler air. Coupled with shorter days, the longer, cooler nights have lowered water temperatures to the point where some streams are being re-opened to fishing. For lake anglers however, water temperature plays an entirely different role when it comes to locating fish, as fish can find suitable temperatures simply by moving to deeper, cooler water.
(Fishing - August 23, 2007)

Visit Beavertail Hill State Park Friday, Aug. 24 to get a glimpse into the life of Mary Gleim, a nineteenth century Missoula resident known for her business savvy, volatile personality and run-ins with the law. Kim Kaufman’s in-character performance of Mary Gleim is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m.
(Headlines - August 22, 2007)

Montana’s Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission will meet Aug. 30 at 1:30 by conference call. Meeting space will be reserved in all FWP regional offices for the public to participate.
(Commission - August 22, 2007)

Yellowstone County class dates for the Fall Hunter Safety Program have been set and will begin the week of September 10 in Laurel and September 17 in Billings. Hunter Education classes, taught by volunteer instructors at area middle schools, are given free of charge every spring and fall. Bowhunter Education begins in early spring and goes through the end of July, and is required for first-time bow hunters and anyone born after January 1, 1985 who wishes to hunt in an Archery Only season. A sche
(Headlines - August 21, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ Region 2 Citizen Advisory Council (CAC) will meet on Wednesday, Aug. 29 in Missoula. The meeting is scheduled from 7-9:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Parkside in downtown Missoula.
(Headlines - August 21, 2007)

Upland bird hunters should concentrate on the most moist, succulent habitat to find birds in the parched landscape of northeastern and north-central Montana.
(Headlines - August 21, 2007)

Public comments are being taken through September 14 on a variety of proposed fishing regulations for the 2008-2011 seasons.
(Headlines - August 21, 2007)

Rainbow trout mortality has been confirmed at North Faber and Faber reservoirs, and FWP is investigating the cause of yellow perch deaths at Beaver Creek Reservoir
(Headlines - August 21, 2007)

Registration for the Hunter Education course for Columbia Falls is scheduled for Thursday, August 30, 6:30-8:30 p.m., and Wednesday, September 5, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Columbia Falls City Council chambers. Registration for the Hunter Education course for the Plains area is scheduled for Wednesday, September 5, 6:30 p.m. at the Plains High School. Registration and first class: 7-9 p.m. at the Salish Kootenai College, September 10. Registration and first night of class is September 10, 7-9 p.m.
(Headlines - August 21, 2007)

FWP wardens are seeking information regarding a wildlife harassment case that took place on Wild Horse Island State Park during the weekend of August 18.
(Headlines - August 21, 2007)

State wildlife officials have announced plans to reopen the Beartooth Wildlife Management Area Sept. 15.             “We plan to allow the public back into the Beartooth Sept. 15, unless we get a significant wet weather event earlier,” says Graham Taylor, Fish, Wildlife and Parks regional wildlife manager.
(Headlines - August 21, 2007)

Late summer means that terrestrial time has neared it’s peak in Montana. Patterns such as grasshoppers, ant, crickets and beetles are tough to beat during the hot summer months, and this year is no exception. Savvy anglers will often fish a dropper fly off the back of the terrerestrial, and doing so is quite simple.
(Fishing - August 17, 2007)

On July 29, Mike Jensen caught a ginormous peamouth in the Clark Fork River near the mouth of the Thompson River.
(Headlines - August 17, 2007)

Wolves of the Lydia Pack near Eureka killed several domestic calves during the period August 7 to August 11.
(Headlines - August 17, 2007)

Fish, Wildlife and Parks will not enhance the Carter Ferry fishing access site on the Missouri River. Gary Bertellotti, FWP Region 4 supervisor, issued a decision notice August 10 not to develop the 19-acre site at this time. The site is located just upstream from Carter vehicle ferry, where a one-acre fishing access site is located.
(Headlines - August 17, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks will offer fall hunter education classes in Bozeman and Belgrade beginning in September.
(Headlines - August 17, 2007)

Volunteers are needed to help with the Alberton Gorge Cleanup on Saturday, Aug. 25. Participants should meet at Cyr Fishing Access Site (FAS) at 8:30 a.m.
(Headlines - August 17, 2007)

The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks State Trails Advisory Committee will meet in Helena Aug. 25 in Helena. The group will meet from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at FWP headquarters, 1420 East Sixth Ave. The committee, representing multiple trial groups, was formed by FWP to review proposed revisions and updates to the annual grants program and to consider allocating special funds earmarked for trail improvements.
(Parks - August 16, 2007)

State officials have placed a ban on all campfires at state parks and fishing access sites in eight north central Montana counties.             The action, known as Stage II fire restrictions, taken by Gary Bertellotti, Fish, Wildlife and Parks Region 4 supervisor, applies to state parks and FAS’s in Cascade, Teton, Pondera, Fergus, Judith Basin, Chouteau, Meagher and Lewis and Clark counties.
(Headlines - August 15, 2007)

While Montana hunters planning early-season hunting trips should expect widespread public and private fire restrictions due to ongoing fire danger, hunting seasons will proceed wherever lands remain open, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks officials said today. Montana's first hunting season, limited to about 5,500 archery-only antelope hunters with a special license applied for earlier this year, opened Wednesday, Aug. 15. The upland game bird season is scheduled to open Sept.
(Headlines - August 15, 2007)

Montana's early hunting seasons will proceed wherever lands remain open. Hunters are reminded, however, to ASK FIRST before hunting on private lands—it’s the law—and to exercise caution with regard to the fire danger that is present in all areas of the state. Montana's first hunting season, limited to about 5,500 archery-only antelope hunters with a special license applied for in June, opened Wednesday, Aug. 15. The upland game bird season is scheduled to open Sept.
(Hunting - August 15, 2007)

While Montana hunters planning early-season hunting trips should expect widespread public and private fire restrictions due to ongoing fire danger, hunting seasons will proceed wherever lands remain open, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks officials said today. Montana's first hunting season, limited to about 5,500 archery-only antelope hunters with a special license applied for earlier this year, opened Wednesday, Aug. 15. The upland game bird season is scheduled to open Sept.
(Hunting - August 15, 2007)

A domestic calf was confirmed killed by wolves on public land in the northern Gravelly Mountains south of Ennis. USDA Wildlife Services confirmed the depredation on Aug. 8.
(Headlines - August 14, 2007)

Visit Beavertail Hill State Park at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 18 to learn about smokejumping. Missoula Smokejumper Center’s Allison Kendall will present a program on parachuting from planes and the art of fighting fires. The program is free of charge and great for an audience of all ages.
(Headlines - August 14, 2007)

Join us on Saturday, August 25 for the first annual Raptor Day, an event celebrating birds and community. Brought to you by Flathead Audubon and Lone Pine State Park.
(Headlines - August 13, 2007)

Bigfork: Registration and first night of class is 7 p.m., Wednesday, September 12, at the Bigfork High School Music Room. Olney: Registration is open now. Register now through August 25 by stopping in to Thad’s Tackle Shop in Olney. Kalispell: Registration for the Hunter Education Course in Kalispell is scheduled for Saturday, September 8, beginning at 9 a.m. and running until 3 p.m. at the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks headquarters on North Meridian Road.
(Headlines - August 13, 2007)

Fish, Wildlife & Parks proposes to acquire approximately 255 acres of important wildlife habitat on Noggle Creek for $1,657,500 using Habitat Montana funds.
(Headlines - August 13, 2007)

A 2-1/2 year-old male grizzly was captured by FWP on August 8 near Morning Slough south of Columbia Falls.
(Headlines - August 13, 2007)

Some archery-only antelope hunters will be afield Wednesday, Aug. 15. These hunters hold a 900 series license to archery hunt antelope Aug. 15—Nov. 11 in any hunting district starting with 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7. This either-sex antelope license had to be obtained over the counter by June 1. Archers who secured this license can only hunt antelope with archery equipment from Aug. 15 – Nov. 11.
(Hunting - August 10, 2007)

Applications for Montana’s proposed 2007-08 bison hunts will be available in September. For the 2007-08 hunt, on Aug. 30 the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission will consider the sale of 15 either-sex bison licenses and up to 60 cow/calf licenses for use near Gardiner; and 25 either-sex bison licenses and up to 50 cow/calf licenses for use near West Yellowstone. Hunts would take place over three time periods: Nov. 15-Dec. 31; Jan. 1-22, 2008; and Jan. 23-Feb, 15, 2008.
(Hunting - August 10, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks reminds black bear hunters that licenses must be purchased by Friday, Aug. 31 for the fall season.  Hunters may purchase a license on the Internet at fwp.mt.gov under Hunting, at FWP regional offices and from FWP license providers. All mail-in applications must be postmarked no later than Aug. 31. The cost of a black bear license is $19 for residents and $350 for nonresidents.
(Hunting - August 10, 2007)

Women interested in hunting waterfowl this fall are invited to attend a clinic on Saturday, Sept. 15, in Great Falls to help prepare for the hunt season. Participants will learn to pattern shotguns, identify waterfowl, target shoot, use duck calls, estimate distances when shooting, and decoy placement.   Participants can bring their own shotgun or one will be provided.   Instructors will share information on waterfowl regulations, hunting etiquette, and dog handling.
(Education - August 10, 2007)

Women interested in hunting deer or elk this fall are invited to attend an educational clinic sponsored by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. The Deer and Elk Hunting Clinic is set to begn Friday evening, Sept. 7 and end at noon on Sunday, Sept. 9 at the National Bison Range near Charlo.   Participants will learn about deer biology and habitat, hunting techniques and equipment, hunting regulations, and field dressing.
(Education - August 10, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking comment from cities, counties, state and federal agencies and private associations on 63 recreational trail grant applications for 2008.   FWP manages the annual grant program that administers federal funding from the Federal Highways Administration.   Projects include rehabilitation work on backcountry trails, planning and construction of community trails and a variety of trail stewardship programs. Comments may be made through Sept.
(Parks - August 10, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is seeking comment from cities, counties, state and federal agencies and private associations on 15 applications for Montana off-highway vehicle grant funding.   FWP manages the annual grant program that administers funds appropriated by the Montana Legislature.
(Parks - August 10, 2007)

Hunters who are taking to the field for Montana’s 900-series archery only antelope season beginning Aug. 15 need to take the extreme weather predicted for some areas of the state into account in their hunt planning. It can be tough to stalk big game when every blade of grass rattles and every twig snaps.
(Hunting - August 10, 2007)

Ornamental ponds are popular ways to "decorate" in the outdoors, even in Montana.
(Fishing - August 10, 2007)

The statistics say that water recreation and alcohol don't mix. The combination is just one more idea that sounds like a good one at the time, but that leads inevitably to regret. Alcohol is a major factor in 50 to 70 percent of all recreational boating fatalities nationwide, reports the U.S Coast Guard.   A blood alcohol content as little as .04 can impair you, and with a blood alcohol content of   .08 or above you are boating under the influence of alcohol.
(Parks - August 10, 2007)

The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission has adopted tentative fishing regulations for 2008-2011. The proposed regulations are available for review on the FWP web site at fwp.mt.gov on the Fishing page. "A variety of opportunities for the public to comment on the proposed regulations will be announced soon, including a number of public meetings and surveys," said Don Skaar, FWP Fish Management Bureau Chief. The public may also comment by email to: fwpfsh@mt.gov through Sept. 14.
(Fishing - August 10, 2007)

The fall Hunter Ed class for the Miles City area has been scheduled for Sept. 22-23. Registration will take place Sept. 4th. This will be the final Hunter Ed class in Miles City for this year. Fall Hunter Ed in Ashland will take place Sept. 4-7. Additionally, will be no fall Hunter Ed class in Baker this year.
(Hunting - August 09, 2007)

Hunters can soon buy over-the-counter antelope licenses and surplus licenses for deer, elk and antelope. Over the counter doe/fawn antelope licenses, valid in several of Montana's hunting areas, will go on sale on Monday, Aug. 13. All surplus deer B, elk and antelope hunting licenses and permits will also go on sale Aug. 13.
(Hunting - August 09, 2007)

Early morning remains the target time for trout fishermen heading to the rivers of Montana. It’s not just the hoot owl restrictions that are driving this phenomenon. It’s the trout themselves. Early mornings mean coolest waters and that’s when the fish have been most active.
(Fishing - August 09, 2007)

The boat dock at Whitefish Lake State Park is being replaced the week of August 13th through the 17th.
(Headlines - August 08, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking comment on a draft environmental assessment that could allow a limited take of up to seven young peregrine falcons for use in falconry. In the practice of falconry, under federal law, licensed falconers may take nestling or free-flying birds of prey from the healthy wild populations and then train the birds for the hunting of small game like grouse, pheasants and ducks.
(Hunting - August 08, 2007)

Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ (FWP) Region 5 Citizens Advisory Council (CAC) will meet on Tuesday, August 14. The meeting is scheduled from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at FWP’s Region 5 office in Billings.
(Headlines - August 06, 2007)

The Yellowstone Valley Amateur Astronomers will present a public celestial viewing at Pictograph Cave State Park on Saturday, August 18, beginning at 8:30 p.m. In the beautiful outdoor setting of Pictograph Cave State Park, this promises to be a memorable evening for stargazers and amateur astronomers alike.
(Headlines - August 06, 2007)

The term “smoked fish” is being replaced by “smoked fishermen” on many waters across Western Montana these days. Ongoing forest fires have left a pall of smoke hanging over the lakes and rivers in some parts of the state as fire crews battle flames and hot summer temperatures. Fire restrictions and fishing closures also continue to change on a weekly basis. Be sure to click on the Drought and Fire Restrictions link on this page before you go.
(Fishing - August 03, 2007)

Anglers, campers and other recreationists will find restrictions on campfires and smoking at Fish, Wildlife and Parks fishing access sites in north central Montana.             FWP’s Region 4 has placed Stage II fire restrictions on FAS’s in Lewis and Clark and Meagher counties.
(Headlines - August 03, 2007)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) will offer a boating education class on Monday, Aug. 27 from 6:30-9 p.m., at the FWP office in Missoula, 3201 Spurgin Road.
(Headlines - August 01, 2007)

Fish, Wildlife and Parks Region 4 citizens advisory council will hold its next meeting Aug. 6 at the FWP office in Great Falls. The Region 4 CAC provides FWP with input and guidance on a variety of natural resources issues. The CAC will have a dinner and work session before the public meeting, which runs 5-8:30 p.m.
(Headlines - August 01, 2007)