Podcasts about montana fish

Robby hosts Sean Clancy & Art Hayes from Citizens for Sustainable Opportunity. These guys are common-sense Montana residents looking for ways to get better Montana mule deer hunting.  And no, they don't hate non-residents! The Citizens for Sustainable Opportunity is a group of concerned hunters, landowners and outfitters looking at ways to change the existing season structure in Montana to address problems as seen by hunters and landowners. You can link their website https://mtseasonproposal.blog/ to view the data and documents. In this episode, they discuss what avenues there are to improve Montana mule deer hunting, and increase an individual hunter's chance at seeing older age class bucks.  They share wildlife data and look at potential biases in interpreting this data. The Citizens for Sustainable Opportunity recognize the importance of using incentives and season dates to improve hunting vs. just creating more and more limited opportunity hunts. This episode will help all hunters--resident and non-resident--understand the dynamics of hunting big mule deer in Montana. If you'd like to learn more, or get involved, you can email Sean at sclancy27@gmail.com. To participate in the season setting process, meetings are occurring now with their conclusion in December.  Link here for more information: FWP's Biennial Hunting Season-setting Process Begins In June | Montana FWP We recently hosted Brian Wakeling from Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks talking about the department's approach to these same issues. You can listen to that episode here https://www.rokslide.com/charting-a-future-for-montana-mule-deer or wherever you find your favorite podcasts. Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby's books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

Send us a textThis week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast your host Downrigger Dale talks with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Fisheries Biologist, Cody Nagel. Rigger and many of you that sent him emails felt it was super important to check in with Cody about how Fresno and Nelson Reservoirs were doing after what we heard Bureau of Reclamation Project Manager Steve Darlinton said on last week's Podcast. Steve showed us a very large whirlpool that had formed out in Fresno Reservoir caused by the huge amount of water that was being let out of it to get the farmers in the area much needed water for crops and livestock. If you would like to watch last week's Podcast with guest Steve Darlinton, just click here. With drought conditions already happening and those being made worse because of the St Mary's Siphon being out of operation, there is a serious lack of water in the area and that everyone very concerned. So, with very low water now in Fresno and more water coming out of Nelson, will the fish survive? And what about the rest of the Milk River Basin? Listen to this podcast and get the answers to those and many other important questions about the present and future of these two wonderful fisheries. Plus, Cody also took some time to give a great update on how the Paddlefish season is going and he even gave some tips on how to not get skunked if you are lucky enough to have a tag for his area! Course, his great advice will work no matter where you are going to fish for those big nosed wonders of the deep. There is a TON if great information here so make sure you and mash that play button! If you want to watch the podcast you can do that on YouTube. Click here to do that! We would also love you even more than we already do if you would please share this Podcast on social media and with your friends and family!Links:To learn more about Fresno Reservoir click here.Click here to learn more about Nelson Reservoir.To learn more about all the new Paddlefish regulation changes that Rigger and Cody talked about click here.Click here to watch Cody's video titled "How to Snag and Release Paddlefish". It has some fantastic information! To watch another great video from Cody about how to catch a Paddlefish, and it is perfect to watch on your phone, click here.Do you have questions for Fisheries Biologist Cody Nagel? Just Click here to send him an email.Be sure and let Rigger know what you thought of this podcast and what your ideas are for future podcast topics! Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us a textThere was once a law many years ago in Montana that basically said women were not allowed to fish alone! Well, move over guys because women in Montana are becoming Outdoors Women. This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast your host Downrigger Dale talks with Kylie Kembel, Coordinator of the BOW or Becoming an Outdoors Women program at Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. Kylie talks about all the different skills that women can learn in the different BOW events that she and her staff put on throughout the year. Ladies can learn how to icefish, flyfish, backpack, snowshoe, gain backcountry survival skills and list goes on and on, even how to make soap out of parts of the wild game that they learn how to harvest! How do they do that? Click the play button above and listen and find out. In fact, one of Rigger's daughters attended one of the programs and she loved it! There is just a tremendous number of things that women can learn that will put them on the way to discovering Montana's Outdoors in a way that they may have never thought possible. And for all you guys out there this podcast is for you as well! Do you possess an outdoor skill that you would like to share with others? BOW is always looking for those that can teach outdoor skills to the BOW participants. Listen to find how you can get involved. So, ladies what are you waiting for? Listen to this podcast and learn how to get involved! Don't forget, the Montana Outdoor Podcast is now on video! You can watch any time on YouTube by clicking here! This is the second video podcast but most all of them will be on video from now on. You of course can still listen to the audio version from any podcast site or by returning to this site every week.Links:Click here to learn more about BOW and find out when the next program is starting! You can attend whichever classes interest you! You can click here to sign up to get emails or texts with updates on upcoming BOW events and classes.Questions for Kylie? Simply click here to send her and email and ask her whatever you want.Rigger would love to hear from you as well. Click here to email him and let him know your thoughts about this episode of the Montana Outdoor Podcast and give him your ideas for topics for future Podcasts.Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us a textThis week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast your host Downrigger Dale has a very interesting discussion with Brian Wakeling, Game Management Bureau Chief for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. Rigger received emails from a whole lot of you wanting more information about the new Mule Deer Management Plan that Brian and his staff are working on right now. Mule Deer are a VERY popular species to hunt here in Montana and a great deal of hunters and outdoor folks in general have been concerned about the decline in Mule Deer populations in many hunting districts across the state. Thus, one of the main reasons for the FWP developing a new management plan. So, what is a management plan anyway? Who decides what goes into the plan? What are the main issues facing Montana's Mule Deer? Is it just Chronic Wasting Disease or are there other issues that are causing population declines? Recently Brian and his staff conducted a series of public workshops across Montana to get input from folks across the state. Mainly they wanted to hear ideas and what folks would like to see in the New Management plan. So how did the workshops go? Those and many other questions will be answered when you listen to this fascinating podcast. So, what are you waiting for click that play button and give this week's podcast a listen! By the way thanks to all of you that listen and share this podcast!  It has grown by leaps and bounds, in fact we just found out that it is now in the top one percent of the most downloaded podcasts in the Nation! Thanks to all of you and to our incredible sponsors, Rocky Mountain Truck and Trailer and Superior Hardwoods of Montana! Links:To look at the latest Mule Deer Population Report click here.To learn more about Chronic Wasting Disease, see maps of where CWD has occurred in Montana and other CWD related information, click here.Click here to learn the basics about Mule Deer in Montana.To look up harvest estimates for Mule Deer or any other game animals in Montana click here.Do you have questions for Montana Game Management Bureau Chief Brian Wakeling? Click here to send him an email.Your buddy Downrigger Dale would love to hear from you with thoughts about this episode, and your ideas for future podcast topics! Click here to send Rigger an email.Remember to tune in to The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, live every Saturday from 6:00AM to 8:00AM MT. The show airs on 30 radio stations across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series, hosts Jon Gray, and Jack Schonely recorded in person at Verticon 2025 in Dallas, Texas. The conversation explores the incredible operations of Two Bear Air Rescue as they interview Rob Cherot, a Two Bear Air Rescue pilot. In addition to Rob's work with Two Bear Air Rescue, he also flies for the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks agency. Two Bear Air Rescue, based near Whitefish, Montana, is dedicated to saving lives by providing top-tier aviation search-and-rescue capabilities across the Northwestern U.S. The program is fully funded by philanthropist Michael Goguen, ensuring it operates at no cost to taxpayers.Rob is a seasoned helicopter pilot whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. Rob's story begins with a passion for flight sparked at UND. Rob worked as a firefighter paramedic in Montana before becoming a skilled professional pilot in the rugged mountain terrain of Montana and its surrounding states.Over the years, he's flown everything from animal surveys and fish stocking to rescue operations, all while balancing multiple roles and building invaluable skills along the way. Whether it's navigating extreme weather or managing traumatic incidents, these stories showcase the resilience and dedication of these skilled pilots. Join us as we explore the profound impact of aviation in preserving communities, protecting wildlife, and serving the public—all set against the stunning backdrop of Montana's rugged terrain.If you enjoy this episode of The Hangar Z Podcast, please leave us a review on the platform you use to listen to The Hangar Z Podcast—your support helps grow our community and showcases inspiring people like Rob. Your feedback truly makes a difference!Thank you to our sponsors Becker Avionics, Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch and Robinson Helicopter.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series, hosts Jon Gray, and Jack Schonely recorded in person at Verticon 2025 in Dallas, Texas. The conversation explores the incredible operations of Two Bear Air Rescue as they interview Rob Cherot, a Two Bear Air Rescue pilot. In addition to Rob's work with Two Bear Air Rescue, he also flies for the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks agency. Two Bear Air Rescue, based near Whitefish, Montana, is dedicated to saving lives by providing top-tier aviation search-and-rescue capabilities across the Northwestern U.S. The program is fully funded by philanthropist Michael Goguen, ensuring it operates at no cost to taxpayers.Rob is a seasoned helicopter pilot whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. Rob's story begins with a passion for flight sparked at UND. Rob worked as a firefighter paramedic in Montana before becoming a skilled professional pilot in the rugged mountain terrain of Montana and its surrounding states.Over the years, he's flown everything from animal surveys and fish stocking to rescue operations, all while balancing multiple roles and building invaluable skills along the way. Whether it's navigating extreme weather or managing traumatic incidents, these stories showcase the resilience and dedication of these skilled pilots. Join us as we explore the profound impact of aviation in preserving communities, protecting wildlife, and serving the public—all set against the stunning backdrop of Montana's rugged terrain.If you enjoy this episode of The Hangar Z Podcast, please leave us a review on the platform you use to listen to The Hangar Z Podcast—your support helps grow our community and showcases inspiring people like Rob. Your feedback truly makes a difference!Thank you to our sponsors Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing, BLR Aerospace and CNC Technologies.

In this episode of Waypoints, we return to the heart of one of the most important — and complex — conservation stories in the world of flyfishing: the state of Montana's Big Hole and the rivers of southwest Montana. Nearly two years after the New York Times released an article focusing on declining fish populations throughout the region, recent data from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks suggests that there may be signs of hope and recovery for wild trout. But with mixed messages, differing perspectives, and strong emotions still swirling throughout the guide, outfitting, and recreational angling communities, the real story is far from simple. Joined by  Jim Olsen – Fisheries Biologist for Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks in the Big Hole River basin – and by Eric Thorson – co-owner of Sunrise Fly Shop in Melrose, Montana – host Jim Klug digs into the facts, revisits the concerns, and examines what's really going on beneath the surface of these legendary waters.Why should this topic matter to anglers from outside of Montana and across the country? Because what happens in the Big Hole doesn't stay in the Big Hole. These rivers are ground zero for a larger conversation about climate change, water use, fishing pressure, wild trout resilience, and the future of angling in the American West. Whether you've fished these waters for decades, or plan to someday cast a line in Montana, this episode offers critical insight into how science, community, and conservation are colliding in real time — and what that means for the future of wild trout.Waypoints is brought to you by PatagoniaTo bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world's most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving. Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They're made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.- Follow us on Instagram- Follow us on Facebook- Check out our YouTube Page- View the official Yellow Dog website ...

Brian Wakeling, Game Management Bureau Chief for Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is today's guest, hosted by Robby.  Montana is in the process of developing a new mule deer plan. This plan brings together biologists and the public to increase mule deer populations using the best science available. The plan will also address the real threat to mule deer from chronic wasting disease, and improving the hunting experience and landowner relations.  This is in important episode for hunters who want to participate in the future of mule deer management in Montana. You can find more information about Montana's mule deer management here: https://fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/commission-councils-committees/mule-deer-citizens-advisory-committee Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby's books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here       

Fencing is a fundamental part of ranching, but not all fences are created equal. In this episode of the Ranch Stewards Podcast, host Haylie Shipp dives into the benefits of wildlife-friendly fencing—also known as modified farm fencing—with RSA Conservation Coordinator Martin Townsend, Phillips County rancher Mark French, and Brett Dorak from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.From a rancher's perspective, these fences aren't just about wildlife—they make sense for the operation, too. A higher bottom wire allows Pronghorn and other wildlife to pass underneath, maintaining critical migration corridors. At the same time, this design helps protect fences from snow rot, extending their lifespan and reducing maintenance. Across the region, aging fences are being replaced, and ranchers are working alongside wildlife professionals to ensure that new fencing works for both livestock and migrating species.The conversation also explores how Pronghorn are monitored and collared to track their movements, providing valuable data on migration patterns. Plus, the group discusses available resources to help with fencing projects, making it easier for ranchers to implement these practical, long-lasting solutions.For details on this method of fencing, check out this infographic: https://tinyurl.com/2va5y8ka To listen to the virtual fencing podcast discussed within the show, check out our episode from Nov 21, 2024, titled "An Unfiltered Rancher Response to Virtual Fencing."Tune in to hear how collaboration between ranchers and conservationists is creating a win-win for working lands and wildlife!The Ranchers Stewardship Alliance (RSA) is a rancher-led, grassroots organization, dedicated to improving the quality of life for rural communities throughout the Northern Great Plains. Through collaborative conservation projects, rancher education events, and local community outreach, RSA works to strengthen our rural community, economy, and culture for generations to come.For more on the Ranchers Stewardship Alliance, head to www.RanchStewards.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Your feedback is always welcome. Email info@ranchstewards.org. Want to support our mission? Visit https://ranchstewards.charityproud.org/Donate.

This week, Randy and I are kicking off a series about public land transfer and how the same old ideas of selling and transferring public lands are popping back up. We'll revisit how Utah has been pushing the idea of transferring federal land to the state and how the Supreme Court recently shut them down. The Supreme Court's refusal to hear the case was certainly a win for public land advocates, but this idea and movement are not going away anytime soon. So, Randy is going to break down the idea of land transfer topic by topic over the next few weeks. Legislatures across the country are now in session, and there are plenty of good things that could benefit hunters and public land users, but there are also a LOT of bad bills that could make things worse for us. In Montana, a hot-button bill that immediately raised eyebrows was one to prohibit the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks Commission from closing down rut hunting of mule deer within the state. In Wyoming, a bipartisan bill has been filed that would make corner crossing legal across the entire state. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently rejected petitions from Montana and Wyoming to delist grizzly bears as threatened from the Endangered Species List. In Oregon, the Army Corps of Engineers plans to draw down Detroit Lake by around 55 feet, essentially temporarily transforming the system back into a river to help juvenile salmon migrate downstream and more easily pass through the dam. The National Elk Refuge is reevaluating its elk feeding program, where thousands of elk are concentrated and fed every year in northwestern Wyoming. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Diane Boyd has four decades of experience on behavior, conservation and management of wild wolf populations. In 1979 Diane moved to Montana to study wolf recovery in the Rocky Mountains, from the first natural colonizer to approximately 2000 wolves today in the western United States. Diane has worked for the University of Montana, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. She received her M.S. and Ph.D. from the University of Montana. He new book is titled: A Woman Among Wolves: My Journey Through Forty Years of Wolf Recovery.   Some interesting insights from this episode: ·         Similar to humans, wolves live in family groups and protect their territory, often to the death. ·         You learn a lot by walking the wolf's tracks in the snow – their habitat, how they respond to scent of other animals, where they sleep, how they kill animals.  You can see the entire ecology of wolves written in their tracks.  ·         A wolf is a cooperative obligatory hunter. It's obliged to cooperate because it needs the power of many mouths to take down a prey animal. ·         The average lifespan of a wolf in the wild is just 4.3 years. ·         Close to 300 wolves are killed every year due to recreational sport.  That's about 1/3 of the overall population. ·         “Excellence is the highest standard of quality for whatever you're measuring.”   Show Notes Book: A Woman Among Wolves: My Journey Through Forty Years of Wolf Recovery Personal Website: Diane Boyd   

Moose were nearly exterminated in Montana in the early 1900s, with their population estimated to have numbered around 100 animals. Now their populations are estimated at somewhere between 9,800 to 11,700 animals A 10-year study conducted by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks into the state’s moose population has provided greater insight to the animals. The study was conducted in three different areas – the Cabinet-Salish mountains, along the Rocky Mountain Front and in the Big Hole Valley. Last month, Billings Gazette Outdoor editor Brett French spoke with lead research biologist Nick DeCesare about the study for a story.  

This week Kadie chats with T. David (Dave) Ritter, a fisheries biologist, artist, and one of the founding members of the California White Shark Project. Throughout this episode we chat about Dave's career path, including his Master's research on fish movement in a remote tributary of the Smith River in Montana, how he and his wife (a non-game biologist for Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks) have approached finding biology jobs in the same vicinity as each other, why everyone should become recreational river snorkelers, and more!   The California White Shark Project (CWSP), is run by Dr. Paul Kanive (featured in Episode 212); Scot Anderson, the founding father of white shark monitoring in the Northern Pacific Ocean; Maxine Meckfessel, their super talented outreach coordinator who does anything and everything to keep the CWSP going, their two captains: Ron Elliot and Pat Conroy, and of course Dave Ritter. You can donate to the CWSP directly here or you can purchase CWSP stickers from Dave's artist page here.   Check out Dave's amazing artwork and stickers at rittercraft.com. And if you'd like to learn more about Ritter Designs, you can find them at RitterDesigns.com.   If you'd like to reach Dave directly, you can email him at rittercraft@gmail.com.   Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on most social media platforms: @FisheriesPod Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).

Send us a textThis week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast your host Downrigger Dale spent an information packed hour with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Wildlife Manager for Region 2, Liz Bradley. Liz and Rigger covered it all from where to find the Elk, Mulies and Whitetail Deer to the best spots to bag some Grouse, Waterfowl and yes even, though rare for the area, the elusive Pronghorn. Liz even covered some great ideas on where to find Black Bears, Mountain Lions and more! Rigger got all the questions he could think of answered, including things like what type of hunting the region is most noted for, what the private land hunting accessibility is like, what the biggest challenges the region is currently facing and what the biggest accomplishments Liz and her crew have made recently! West-Central Montana can be an extremely successful place to hunt IF you know all the current information about the area and this Podcast is THE place to get all of that, so get to listening and then go have a successful hunt!Links:Click here to look through the FWP Big Game Hunting Forecast for Region 2.If you would like to learn more about Region 2, click here.Wildlife Manager Liz Bradley also mentioned a great report for you Region 2 Elk Hunters called the 2024 State of the Elk for Region 2. Click here to read the latest version of that report! You can also find more great ongoing updates on the Region 2 Facebook Page by clicking here! Or why not signup to get regular updates by clicking here!Click here to use the FWP Hunt Planner Map.To learn more about the FWP Region 2 Block Management Program as well as to get property maps and more for Region 2 click here.Click here to get up to date on all Montana hunting regulations.To learn how to collect a CWD sample from your harvested animal click here.Do you have questions or comments for Region 2 Wildlife Manager Liz Bradley? Click here to send her an email.Click here to send Downrigger Dale an email.Remember to tune in to our live radio show, The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, every Saturday morning from 6:00AM to 8:00AM. The show airs on 30 radio stations all across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has released proposed regulations for the 2024-2025 wolf trapping season. West central Montana hunters enjoyed a robust start to the big game general hunting season this weekend.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has released proposed regulations for the 2024-2025 wolf trapping season. The draft is available for public comment from now until November 12.

Send us a textThis week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast your host Downrigger Dale got together with Brett Dorak, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Wildlife Manager for Region 7 in Southeast Montana. Rigger and Brett had a great conversation about ALL the hunting opportunities you can find there in Southeast Montana, and boy are there a lot of them. They went through all the usual big game favorites like Elk, Mule and Whitetail Deer and Antelope or more appropriately known as Pronghorn but they also covered several other things you may not know are in Region 7 as well as some things that have gone on that we are pretty sure you have no idea about. For example did you know that they found out that Bobcats have been going after a certain animal there that you probably would never think they would ever be able to kill? Oh you got to hear about this! You will also learn about some recent amazing accomplishments in FWP Region 7. We will give you a hint; one of those accomplishments has to do with you having more access to land you can now hunt on! Of course one of the most important things you will learn when you listen to this podcast is where the best places are to find all the Elk, Deer, Pronghorn, Bear, Lions, Pheasants and the list goes on. If you love to hunt in Southeast Montana or have ever thought about hunting there or just wondered what all the wildlife is doing and where you can find them, then this podcast is for your!Links:Click here to look through the FWP Big Game Hunting Forecast for Region 7.If you would like to learn more about Region 7, click here.You can also find more great ongoing updates on the Region 7 Facebook Page by clicking here! Or why not signup to get regular updates by clicking here!Click here to use the FWP Hunt Planner Map.To learn about the Region 7 Block Management Program and get property maps and more click here.Click here to get up to date on all Montana hunting regulations.To learn how to collect a CWD sample from your harvested animal click here.Do you have questions or comments for Region 7 Wildlife Manager Brett Dorak? Click here to send him an email. Questions for Downrigger Dale click here to send him an emailRemember to tune in to our live radio show, The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, every Saturday morning from 6:00AM to 8:00AM. The show airs on 30 radio stations all across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us a textThis week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast your host Downrigger Dale continues our series on where to find the game you are looking for this 2024 hunting season. This time he had an incredible conversation with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Wildlife Manager, Neil Anderson. Neil spilled the beans on where to find the Elk, Deer, Black Bear, Wolf, Upland Game Bird, Waterfowl and everything else you can hunt in FWP Region 1! If you hunt in Region 1 in Northwest Montana, have ever even thought of hunting there or maybe just wondered what all kind of wildlife you can find up there, then you should listen to this podcast right now! Neil talked about how the region is laid out, how to get around, what things to watch out for (both good and bad) and well, you get the idea. This is yet another podcast in this series that truly will fill you in on where to go, what to look out for and even how to plan your hunt for maximum success! Plus there are even some fun stories! For example do you know that the town of Libby Montana has a problem with with a certain animal that has kind of invaded the town? What kind of critter do you suppose has gone urban there in Libby?  No it is not Deer, Elk or bear, listen now to find out! It is for sure something you don't hear about very often! All this awesome info is just awaiting for you so get to listening and be ready to out hunt every one in Region 1 in Northwest Montana!Links:Click here to look through the FWP Big Game Hunting Forecast for Region 1.If you would like to learn more about Region 1, click here. You can also find more great ongoing updates on the Region 1 Facebook Page by clicking here! Or why not signup to get regular updates by clicking here!Click here to use the FWP Hunt Planner Map.Learn more about the Region 1 Block Management Program and get property maps and more for Region 1 click here.Click here to get up to date on all Montana hunting regulations.To learn how to collect a CWD sample click here.Questions or comments for Wildlife Manager, Neil Anderson? Click here to send him an email.Click here to send an email to Downrigger Dale.Remember to tune in to our live radio show, The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, every Saturday morning from 6:00AM to 8:00AM. The show airs on 30 radio stations all across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Coltan Pipinich, a graduate student in the Department of Ecology at Montana State University, discusses his time growing up in Montana, working for Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, and his research on brown trout.

Bear Beware! Montana officials have euthanized a bear after it attacked a child at a campground. A new social media Instagram filter, "Selfie Control", helps tourists maintain safe distances from wildlife. Plus, wildfire updates and tips on the shelf life of sunscreen and insect repellent. Join radio hosts Rebecca Wanner aka 'BEC' and Jeff ‘Tigger' Erhardt with The Bend Radio Show & Podcast, your news outlet for the latest in Outdoors & Western Lifestyle News!   Episode 198 Details Wildlife Safety: Bear Attack, Instagram Filter Plus Wildfire, Sunscreen & Insect Repellent Tips    Bear Attacks Young Child In Tent At Private Campground Bear Beware In Montana & Other National Parks According to Outdoor Life, Officials in Montana tracked down and killed a black bear that attacked a three-year-old girl, on Sunday, August 11th, while she was sleeping in a tent at a private campground near Red Lodge. The attack occurred around 9:45 p.m. at Perry's RV Park and Campground, leading to the evacuation of the site. The bear was trapped and euthanized by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (MFWP) officials, who believe it was the same bear involved in the incident. The girl was taken to a hospital in Billings, but her condition remains undisclosed. MFWP's Facebook post noted that "unsecured attractants" like garbage and human food likely lured the bear into the campsite. The campground remains closed as officials continue to monitor the area for any other bears Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks emphasizes being “Bear Aware” when camping or recreating in bear country, especially at established campgrounds where large concentrations of people can attract opportunistic bears. In its guide to camping in bear country, MFWP points out that most conflicts between humans and black bears at campsites involve food-conditioned bears.  In a statement, MFWP said, “A food-laden campsite can be a bear's death sentence. After trying scare tactics and multiple relocations, FWP wardens and biologists have to kill 10 to 12 bears each year when the animals, attracted by food, repeatedly raid campsites and put human safety at risk.” Reference: https://www.outdoorlife.com/survival/montana-black-bear-attacks-girl/ https://fwp.mt.gov/homepage/news/2024/aug/08132024_child-hospitalized-in-black-bear-attack-south-of-red-lodge https://fwp.mt.gov/binaries/content/assets/fwp/activities/bearproofcamping.pdf NEW Social Media Instagram Wildlife Filter: Safety First! Tourists and Wildlife Do Not Mix, Selfie Filter Provides Safety The Jackson Hole Travel & Tourism Board has launched the "Selfie Control" Instagram filter, designed to help tourists maintain safe distances from wildlife while taking photos. Preloaded with safe viewing distances for iconic species like bears, bison, and moose, the filter helps users determine if they are too close to the animals. If the animal appears larger on the screen than the icon, users are in the danger zone and should back up. This tool addresses the challenge of accurately estimating safe distances, as recommended by the National Park Service, which advises keeping at least 25 yards from wildlife and 100 yards from predators like bears. The filter aims to prevent dangerous encounters, especially with "tourons" who often disregard safety, leading to incidents such as bison-related injuries in Yellowstone. By making it easier to gauge safe distances, the filter is expected to enhance visitor safety and protect wildlife during the busy summer season. Reference: https://industry.visitjacksonhole.com/travel-tourism-board-inspires-a-little-selfie-control https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Touron National Wildfire Update: Key Insights, Safety & Prevention Tips The National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) reports significant wildfire activity across the United States. As of August 13, 2024, there are 77 large active wildfires that have burned over 2.3 million acres. More than 28,750 wildland firefighters are currently assigned to wildfires. Year to date, since January, over 29,500 wildfires have burned more than 5.2 million acres in the United States, compared to 1.3 million acres during the same time frame in 2023. This is about one million acres above the 10-year average number of acres burned. More than 25,600 wildfires have been caused by people, compared to about 3,700 ignited by lightning. As wildfires continue to threaten communities and natural landscapes, it's crucial that we all do our part to prevent new fires from starting. Remember, it only takes a single spark to start a wildfire, but together, we can prevent them. "Warming temperatures, drier conditions, and shifts in precipitation are contributing to an increase in the frequency of large wildfires and acres of land burned in the U.S. each year," according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. So far in Fire Year 2024, 14 Unma nned Aircraft System (UAS) incursions have been reported near wildfires in 10 states. Seven of these incursions have caused firefighting aircraft to be grounded while the unauthorized drone operator was located. Unauthorized drones have no communication with wildland firefighters and pilots working on the ground and in the air. Regardless of your motivation, flying a drone near a wildfire is putting someone else's life in danger. Always Know Before You Fly and keep drones away from wildfires.   Key Safety Tips Stay Informed: Monitor local news and official sources for updates. Use apps and websites for real-time wildfire information. Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include essentials such as water, food, medications, and important documents. Follow Local Instructions: Adhere to evacuation routes and safety measures. Traveling During Wildfire Season: Avoid high-risk areas unless necessary. Wear protective clothing and a mask to reduce smoke inhalation. Meeting Location that all members of the party know to gather.   Packing List for Safe Campfires in Dry Conditions Fire-Safe Gear Portable Fire Pit: Prevent fire from spreading. Fire Blanket: Quickly smother accidental flames. Fire Extinguisher: For emergencies. Fire Control Tools Shovel: For digging a fire pit and extinguishing the fire. Bucket: To fetch water for dousing the fire. Water Supply: At least 5 gallons dedicated to extinguishing the fire.   Choosing a Site, Preparation & Management for a Camp Fire Select a site with no overhanging branches or flammable materials. Use established fire rings if available. Clear a 10-foot diameter around the pit. Dig a small pit and surround it with rocks. Keep the fire small and manageable. Never leave the fire unattended. Avoid burning trash or leaves. Allow the fire to burn down to ash. Pour water, stir the ashes, and pour more water until cold. Alternatively, cover the fire with dirt and check for hot spots. Check the area for stray embers or signs of heat. Ensure the fire is completely out before leaving. Always stay informed about local fire restrictions and weather conditions before lighting a campfire. For the latest updates, visit the National Interagency Fire Center's website. References: https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn   How Long Bug Spray Lasts: Shelf Life and Effectiveness of Common Insect Repellents Bug Spray with DEET or Picaridin Bug spray with DEET or picaridin can last up to three years when stored properly. Synthetic repellents like DEET and picaridin have longer shelf lives compared to natural repellents with essential oils. Bug Spray with Essential Oils Bug sprays made with essential oils are effective for about a year. These natural repellents can degrade faster than synthetic ones. Checking Expiration Dispose of insect repellent after three years as it may lose efficacy over time. To check if bug spray has expired, look for changes in smell, color, or consistency, or test its effectiveness by applying it and monitoring for bites. Reference: https://www.marthastewart.com/8228048/does-bug-spray-expire Sunscreen: Shelf Life and Effectiveness FDA Guidelines The U.S. FDA mandates that sunscreen retains its full strength for at least three years, allowing you to use leftover sunscreen from previous years. Checking Expiration Dates Always check for an expiration date on the sunscreen bottle and discard any that have expired. If there is no expiration date, write the purchase date on the bottle and dispose of it after three years. Proper Storage Store sunscreen properly by keeping it out of hot weather and direct sunlight to maintain its effectiveness. If the sunscreen's color or texture changes, it's best to throw it out, according to the Mayo Clinic. Reference: https://www.mayoclinic.org/ FIELD REPORTS & COMMENTS Call or Text your questions, or comments to 305-900-BEND or 305-900-2363 Or email BendRadioShow@gmail.com FOLLOW Facebook/Instagram: @thebendshow https://www.facebook.com/thebendshow SUBSCRIBE to The Bend YouTube Channel. Website: TheBendShow.com https://thebendshow.com/ #catchBECifyoucan #tiggerandbec #outdoors #travel #cowboys The Outdoors, Rural America, And Wildlife Conservation are Center-Stage. AND how is that? Because Tigger & BEC… Live This Lifestyle. Learn more about Jeff ‘Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca Wanner aka BEC here: TiggerandBEC.com https://tiggerandbec.com/ WESTERN LIFESTYLE & THE OUTDOORS Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca 'BEC' Wanner are News Broadcasters that represent the Working Ranch world, Rodeo, and the Western Way of Life as well as advocate for the Outdoors and Wildlife Conservation. Outdoorsmen themselves, this duo strives to provide the hunter, adventurer, cowboy, cowgirl, rancher and/or successful farmer, and anyone interested in agriculture with the knowledge, education, and tools needed to bring high-quality beef and the wild game harvested to your table for dinner. They understand the importance in sharing meals with family, cooking the fruits of our labor and fish from our adventures, and learning to understand the importance of making memories in the outdoors. Appreciate God's Country. United together, this duo offers a glimpse into and speaks about what life truly is like at the end of dirt roads and off the beaten path. Tigger & BEC look forward to hearing from you, answering your questions and sharing in the journey of making your life a success story. Adventure Awaits Around The Bend.

Last month, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks implemented “hoot owl” restrictions due to high water temperatures. It was the first time the agency limited fishing on that section of the river. Montana wildlife officials lifted fishing restrictions on the North Fork of the Flathead River Wednesday.

Pronghorns, also called antelope, are one of the coolest animals in Montana. They have lived in North America since the last ice age when woolly mammoths and cheetahs roamed the region. Those animals are gone, but the pronghorns remain. For four years Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks scientists, aided by graduate students, conducted a study of eight pronghorn populations across the state.  Here to tell us more about what the study revealed is Billings Gazette outdoor editor Brett French.

This week, we're discussing how wildlife and habitat are often used as currency to pay for our high standards of living and lower energy costs. We also discuss how issues are very often only evaluated economically and not biologically. In Montana, a judge just ruled in favor of Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks in a case in which a private landowner group sued the state for failing to kill enough elk. In Massachusetts, an Act Modernizing Firearm Laws was recently signed into law, which will significantly impact hunters. We have an update in Colorado: The proposal to ban mountain lion, lynx, and bobcat hunting within the state will be on the ballot in November. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced a voluntary pilot program to incentivize the use of non-lead ammo in National Wildlife Refuges. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On July 18, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks reported a member of its staff had killed a male grizzly bear that had been raiding homes, businesses and garbage cans in the Gardiner area for weeks. Repeated attempts to trap the 15-year-old bear were unsuccessful. The bear was shot while in the Yellowstone River, about 4 miles north of Gardiner and the North Entrance to Yellowstone National Park. One of the raids the bear made was at Chester Evitt’s house. Here to tell us more about that encounter and the situation in Gardiner is Brett French, outdoor editor for the Billings Gazette.

Amidst controversy over alleged unfair labor practices at the Montana Department of Justice, where Trooper Alicia Bragg's termination sparked outcry for workplace transparency and accountability. Concurrently, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks spearheads efforts to revive the native redband trout population, crucial for preserving ecological balance in the region's waters. Meanwhile, the Flathead Lake Biological Station embarks on a $9.5 million SUBSEA project, diving deep into oceanic research to unravel the mysteries of carbon cycling and ecosystem dynamics, offering insights crucial for global marine conservation efforts.Read the full stories here:Montana Highway Patrol likely committed unfair labor practice in firing trooperState wildlife agency gives boost to native rainbow trout species Flathead Lake Biological Station embarking on an ocean study  A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.Visit DailyInterLake.com to stay up-to-date with the latest breaking news from the Flathead Valley and beyond. Support local journalism and please consider subscribing to us. Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. And follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X. Subscribe to all our other DIL pods! Keep up with northwest Montana sports on Keeping Score, dig into stories with Deep Dive, and jam out to local musicians with Press Play. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks killed a food-conditioned black bear after a conflict with campers in the Flathead Valley.

Send us a Text Message.This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast your host Downrigger Dale talks with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Fisheries Biologist for Region 1, Travis Rehm. They cover pretty much everything there is to know about Noxon Rapids Reservoir and the fish that call it home. Did you know just how diverse the fish population is in Noxon Rapids Reservoir and the fact that it is one of the only places west of the Continental Divide in Montana that you can catch Walleye? Not only that but you can catch as many of them as you want! What do we mean by that? Well, listen to the Podcast to find out. There has also been a lot of rumors, misconceptions and just plain mystery as to why certain things are done and mandated on the reservoir and by whom. Downrigger and Travis cover a lot of topics in this Podcast in an attempt to clear all that up. How did they do? Listen to the podcast to see if they were able to answer all your questions. Remember, if they didn't you can find a link below to Travis's email so you can ask him your questions! Beyond the attempt to clear up any controversy and confusion this Podcast also just delivers a TON of fascinating facts about this mysterious body of water. For example, do you know how big Noxon Reservoir is? How did the Walleye get into the reservoir in the first place? What other nonnative fish are in there? Who controls the damn on Noxon Reservoir? Bottomline, is the fish population healthy in the reservoir? Those are just a small number of the many questions and facts that get answered and given to you in this fascinating and informative Podcast.Links:To find out more about Noxon Rapids Reservoir click here.Rigger and Travis talk about the latest Fisheries Monitoring report that Travis and others recently prepared about Cabinet Gorge and Noxon Rapids Reservoir. Click here to download that report.For a copy of the 2024 Montana Fishing Regulations click here. Be sure and go to page 31 and read the Exceptions to Standard Regulations for Thompson Falls Dam to the Idaho Border (includes Noxon Rapids and Cabinet Gorge Reservoirs).If you would like to send Fisheries Biologist Travis Rehm an email to ask him any questions or give him your thoughts simply click here.Of course, Rigger would love to hear your thoughts about this podcast and/or any ideas you have for topics for future podcasts. Click here to email him!Remember to tune in to our live radio show, The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, every Saturday morning from 6:00AM to 8:00AM. The show airs on 30 radio stations all across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Send us a Text Message.This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast FWP Fisheries Biologist Nathan Jaksha talks with your host Downrigger Dale about Canyon Ferry Reservoir and the fish that we all love to chase after in it. Nathan is new to the Montana FWP and Canyon Ferry Reservoir. What did steps did he take to learn all about the reservoir, and will he be making big changes to how the fish are managed there? How does he feel about how healthy the fish are in Canyon Ferry Reservoir? When Downrigger asked him why the Walleye in Canyon Ferry seem smaller than in other reservoirs what did Nathan say about that? Did he think the Walleye fishing regulations would help with that? Any changes ahead for the trout in the reservoir? When he takes off his FWP hat what are the fish he likes to target? Listen to Nathan's answers to those and many other questions on the Montana Outdoor Podcast. All and all Rigger and Nathan had a VERY detailed and fascinating conversation that you really should listen to. All you need to do is to listen, there is no doubt you are going to find Rigger and Nathan's conversation extremely interesting. As Downrigger put it, “Nathan really knows his stuff and it was fascinating to find out how he set out to learn everything he possibly could about this great body of water. One thing that really surprised me was when I asked Nathan where Canyon Ferry ranked on the list of water bodies that see the most fishing pressure in Montana!”. Whether you have been fishing Canyon Ferry your whole life or have never fished it before we are positive that you will learn a lot when you listen to this podcast!Links:If you would like to learn more about Canyon Ferry Reservoir here are a few links for you: Canyon Ferry info from VistMT, or Canyon Ferry info from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, or Info about the Canyon Ferry Dam from the Bureau of Reclamation. One of the things that Downrigger brought up was an article he read about Walleye in Montana. In that article it mentions how many pounds of perch that walleye consume per year in Canyon Ferry Reservoir, but he could not remember that amount click here to read that article. The total amount is a staggering 750,000 pounds! If you would like to ask Nathan Jaksha any questions just click here to send him an email. Why not send your old buddy Downrigger Dale an email and tell him what you thought of this podcast and give him your ideas for future topics? Click here to send him an email.Remember to tune in to our live radio show, The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, every Saturday morning from 6:00AM to 8:00AM. The show airs on 30 radio stations all across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

Scot Bealer loves to tell stories. And it turns out his love of fishing works well for this. Because a life spent fishing results in many adventures and misadventure that become fodder for good stories. That’s all wrapped up in his new book “Most Trout Don’t Read” published earlier this year by Farcountry Press in Helena.  Bealer has always been drawn to teaching the ways of fishing. A bulk of that knowledge came from the L.L. Bean Fly Fishing Schools and casting into trout waters across the west.  When he’s not on the water fishing, Scot works as an instructor for the Hooked on Fishing Program through Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. He’s here with me to share the lessons he has learned from his time pursuing trout on the fly.  

The head of the fisheries department at Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks was placed on administrative leave in mid-May — one of several FWP administrators placed on leave in recent years. Missoula Current environmental reporter Laura Lundquist shared her reporting on the agency with MTPR's Austin Amestoy.

After more than 40 years and 1,200 holes, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has dug its last pit latrine on the Smith River.  Starting this year, floaters are now required to carry with them something they have always been able to leave behind - their excrement. According to FWP, the Smith River corridor was the only permitted river in the lower 48 that did not require people to pack out human waste. In early April, I joined personnel from the U.S Forest Service, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and volunteers from the Montana Vet Program on a five-day trip down the river to remove and raft out the latrines, officially ushering in the new era of recreational management on the river. On this episode I sit down with Colin Maas, manager of Smith River State Park, to talk about the past present and future of managing the river.

When the big game season ends in November, there is a guaranteed influx of goose hunters along the Yellowstone River east of Billings. Since 1958, a portion of the river has been closed to waterfowl hunting. From the junction of the Yellowstone and Bighorn rivers, downstream to the Rosebud-Custer county line, the river has been off-limits to waterfowl hunting. The closure was initiated when goose and duck numbers were low in the region. A survey in 1961 found only 500-some geese. By 2013 the same section held almost 40,000 geese. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has proposed reopening the river section to hunting. The Fish and Wildlife Commission will consider the idea at its April 17 meeting. Brett French, Billings Gazette outdoor editor, recently wrote about the issue and is here to discuss what he found out.

Moose hunting in southeastern Montana? That may sound like the punch line for a off-beat joke, but Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is offering its first moose hunting permit for Region 7 this spring. The lone tag is being offered as the population of the largest member of the deer family has steadily grown in the region. This seems at odds with what’s happening with the long-legged creatures in what is considered their native habitat, where populations have declined. To learn more about the story, Brett French, outdoor editor at the Billings Gazette, is here to talk about the story he recently wrote.

Montana Fish and Wildlife commissioners recently approved 19 projects aimed at restoring and improving wild fish habitat around the state.

Last week the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission debated what’s become a hot-button issue – restrictions on nonresident upland game bird hunters. The debate arose after Fish, Wildlife & Parks Director Dustin Temple asked Commissioner Lesley Robinson to carry two amendments to the group. One would push back the nonresident bird dog training season by two weeks, the other would delay the nonresident bird hunting season by two weeks. Here to discuss what led up to the discussion and the resolution is Brett French, Billings Gazette outdoor editor.

If you are interested in hunting big game in Montana in 2024, or beyond, this episode is for you. We speak with Greg and Emily from Montana Fish, Parks & Wildlife, to get an update on the status of deer, elk, and grizzly bears in Montana. The state's "It's Up To Us" hunter ethics campaign. The differences between Montana's bonus points and preference points for their hunting applications, and much more. Resources for this episode... - https://fwp.mt.gov/hunt - https://fwp.mt.gov/ItsUpToUs - https://fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/hunting-licenses - https://fwp.mt.gov/binaries/content/assets/fwp/conservation/elk/elk-management-plan/region-3-elk-plan.pdf Contact Us: podcast@exomtngear.com Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

As the federally-protected grizzly bear continues to make its life outside of the wilderness enclaves of its recovery zones it is met with human civilization and the problems that arise as a result. The folks whose lives and livelihood are on the line in these situations are the farmers and ranchers who work the land where civilization and wilderness meet. In 2017, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks created the prairie grizzly bear team in response to the expanding grizzly bear population of the NCDE making its way from the mountains to the prairie. What follows is a conversation I had earlier this year with Wesley Sarmento, the head of that prairie bear team. This episode was recorded as we bumped along dirt roads outside Conrad, Montana. Sound quality may vary. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast your host Downrigger Dale talks to Brian Wakeling the Game Management Bureau Chief for the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. Brian knows everything there is to know about Montana's Elk Shoulder Seasons. He and Rigger had a VERY interesting discussion about these sometimes confusing and controversial Elk Hunting Seasons. Once you listen to this you may never look at Elk Shoulders Seasons the same. In fact, there is a much better way of understanding them once you stop looking at them as an extension to the regular season. They are basically separate mini seasons all unto themselves. They are designed and structured for different reasons. So, what does that mean? Listen now and find out. There are also lots of rumors and misconceptions surrounding these seasons. Downrigger asks the questions and gets the answers that should clear all those and more up. Things like; How many elk are available for harvest? What dictates why a season will be put in somewhere? Is it true that not all shoulder seasons are on private land? What is the best way to plan a shoulder season hunt? What do all those charts with the rules and regs inside of them mean? Are outfitters allowed to guide in shoulder season areas? How much discretion on who hunts and where, do landowners have? And the list goes on. This podcast will open your eyes and should show you how these seasons, that are going on now, can become huge opportunities for you!If you want to learn more about Elk Shoulder Seasons click here. Once you click there keep scrolling and clicking on links in that page there is TONS of info there! This Block Management webpage has some good info for planning hunts, click here to take a look! If you have questions for Downrigger's guest Brian Wakeling, click here to send him an email. Do you have ideas for topics for future podcasts? Click here to send an email to Downrigger Dale.Remember to tune in to our live radio show, The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, every Saturday morning from 6:00AM to 8:00AM. The show airs on 30 radio stations all across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

This week the host of The Montana Outdoor Podcast, Downrigger Dale talks to Ed Beall Owner of Capital Sports and Western and member of the Montana Private Land and Public Wildlife Advisory Committee (PLPW). Rigger and Ed cover a TON of topics about hunter and landowner relations. Ed has been working hard for years now to help get outdoor sportsmen and women more access to private lands across Montana and when you click here to listen to this week's podcast you will learn that all the work Ed and  the other folks on the PLPW has done as well as of course the incredible work the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has done, is starting to pay off. In fact, at this point it now is up to all of us to take the next step to make it happen. This is the most asked about topic in Downriggers listener emails. Ed and so many others have been dedicated to building relationships between landowners and those that love hunt, fish, and just get out in Montana's great outdoors for a long time now and finally you will learn some of the most important things you can do to gain access to private lands by building your own personal relationships with landowners. BUT there is a right way and yes, a wrong way to do that. Listen to the podcast and learn what the steps are to get the access you have always wanted. There is an interesting side effect to doing this. That is, you will likely make some lifelong friendships and learn things you likely never thought you would learn. To learn about the right way to approach landowners click here to take the Hunter-Landowner Stewardship Test! You will learn a ton of valuable info when you take this test which is part of the Hunter-Landowner Stewardship Program!Another topic that Rigger covered with Ed is VERY cool. They uncovered a source of hunting and fishing information for every region in Montana. It is all about, that often sought after and rarely found, local knowledge of where the fish and big game is and what you need to know to harvest what you are hunting and fishing for. You may have heard a little about this when you have heard The Captain talk about “Montana Approved” stores. Listen to the podcast to learn more and click here to get a list of links to get you started on finding what you are hunting and fishing for! If you have questions for Ed or other members of the PLPW, click here to email Downrigger your questions and he will get them answered for you. You can also click here to learn all about the It's Up to Us campaign. There is lots and lots of great info on that web page!Remember to tune in to our live radio show, The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, every Saturday morning from 6:00AM to 8:00AM. The show airs on 30 radio stations all across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

For the second time this month, wildlife groups are suing Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) for violating public meeting laws. Montana FWP has announced a series of public meetings to discuss the draft Wolf Conservation and Management Plan.

New data from the Montana Health Department show nearly 16,000 people lost Medicaid coverage in August. According to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, over 2,100 hunters visited wildlife check stations as big game general hunting season opened Saturday.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has released the first draft of a new statewide Wolf Management Plan and is now requesting public comment.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has released the first draft of a new statewide Wolf Management Plan and is now requesting public comment.

In late September the Legislative Audit Division released a report investigating Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Enforcement Division. The audit documented a division riddled with morale problems and distrust in management. What's more, the report found FWP's Human Resources Division – which is responsible for all FWP employees – was opening the agency up to the risk of litigation because of its practices. Prior to the audit's publication, the Enforcement Division chief retired with an additional $150,000 in compensation, two top administrators were reassigned and FWP's director has stepped down and been replaced. Here to talk about the audit today is Brett French, outdoor editor at the Billings Gazette.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is planning prescribed burns at two wildlife management areas in western Montana in the coming weeks.

The Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Department and its partners have inspected over 88,000 watercraft this year for aquatic invasive species.

Are You Bear Aware? Bears are Getting Ready for Hibernation Right Now! Be Ready!! What Should You do if You Surprise a Bear? What Should You do if You Are in a Physical Confrontation with a Bear?This week on the Montana Outdoor Podcast your host Downrigger Dale talks with Danielle Oyler, Wildlife Stewardship Outreach Specialist from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. One of Danielle's many specialties is teaching the public all about living with wildlife, and particularly with bears. She knows a TON about bears and how they behave. Grizzly Bear populations have grown A LOT across Montana. In fact, Grizzly Bears can now be found from across Western Montana to as far east as Billings.It is perfect timing having Danielle on the Montana Outdoor Podcast as Governor Gianforte recently announced that September is Bear Aware Month in Montana. To Celebrate the FWP is holding events across Montana. Be sure and attend an event near you and bring the whole family. You will have a great time and you will learn a lot of things that could just save your life if you have an encounter with a bear.Listen now and you will learn about where the events are being held, prizes you can win, like free bear spray, as well as all kinds of life saving information. You will also learn how to make your home and property less attractive to bears, plus a whole lot more. You can click here to learn all about Bear Aware Month and when and where the events are happening around Montana! That link also has a link to lots of videos about bears in Montana. You can also click here to watch a video of this week's podcast guest, Danielle Oyler talking about how to identify signs of bear activity.  If you have any questions for Danielle about bears and Bear Aware Month, just click here to send her an email. Remember to tune in to our live radio show, The Montana Outdoor Radio Show, every Saturday morning from 6:00AM to 8:00AM. The show airs on 30 radio stations all across the State of Montana. You can get a list of our affiliated radio stations on our website. You can also listen to recordings of past shows, get fishing and and hunting information and much more at that website or on our Facebook page. You can also watch our radio show there as well.

A guy walks into a fishing access site... Sounds like the start of a joke, but this time it's the start of a podcast topic. Rebecca and Shannon are chatting with Dave Hagengruber of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks about the newly enacted Conservation License that's required to access most state lands. As of July 1, 2023, anyone 12 years and older needs a Conservation License to recreate at fishing access sites, wildlife managment areas, wildlife habitat protection areas, and Montana state trust land. Purchase a Conservation License: https://fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/conservation-license Water flow information: https://www.usgs.gov/ To learn more about aquatic invasive species, check out episode 37 of this podcast.

Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks is seeking public comment on a fisheries management plan. Eileen Ryce, FWP's Fisheries Division Administrator will join us to unpack the plan and give us an update on the state's fishery systems. Then, Nicole Pugliano, […] The post Fisheries Management Plan & 2023 Fishing Season first appeared on Voices of Montana.

Special Guests:   • Dillon Tabish, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks  • Corey Mason, DSC CEO  • Master Chef Jon Bonnell, Pro Staff  • Tom Dokken, Pro Staff