Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Turning Blue into Green: An Introduction to the Montana Water Market

February 23 - 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Bitterroot Public Library.

Turning Blue into Green: An Introduction to the Montana Water Market

by Chris Corbin with Lotic Water Marketing.

Flow Restoration in MT: Water Right Leasing, Source Switching & Irrigation Efficiency

by Rankin Holmes with Montana Water Trust.

With funding from MT DEQ, BRWF is hosting two speakers on water marketing and flow restoration in Montana. A question and answer discussion will follow the presentation. The presentation is free and open to the public; light refreshments will be served.

Bitterroot Public Library

www.bitterrootpubliclibrary.org

306 State Street
Hamilton, MT 59840-2759
(406) 363-1670
Get directions

For more information, contact:
Laurie Riley, Executive Director
Bitter Root Water Forum
PO Box 1247
Hamilton, Montana 59840
(406) 375-2272
Email brwaterforum@bitterroot.net
www.brwaterforum.org

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Bitterroot Brewing Company - Support our Supporters Series

Support our supporters!
Our club is very fortunate to have many establishments in town that are good supporters and reliable contributors to our efforts. When you patronize these places as we eat and drink our way around town let them know you appreciate their support to Bitterroot Trout Unlimited (BRTU).

This post is featuring the
Bitterroot Brewing Company.

In addition to sponsoring the BRTU banquet and providing the best micro-brews in our area, the Brewery also hosts a fly tying round-table every Wednesday evening at 5:30. Prominent tiers from around the valley periodically show up and flaunt their abilities. If you want to pick up some tips from the best, stop by, grab an IPA and check it out. Rumor has it that even local living legend John Foust and our distinguished BRTU board member, Greg Chester, occasionally show up.

The food is superior pub fare, too. Check out the Bitterroot Brewing Company food menu with this link.

Bitterroot Brewing

Bitter Root Brewing

www.bitterrootbrewing.com

101 Marcus Street
Hamilton, MT 59840-2541
(406) 363-7468
Get directions

Native fish restoration in Montana - Bitterroot Trout Unlimited public program 1-21-2010

The January BRTU meeting will be at 7:00 PM Thursday, January 21 at the Hamilton Elks Lodge, 203 State Street. Travis Horton, who is the Native Fish Coordinator for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, will give a presentation about Montana’s Native Trout programs. This will be a great opportunity to learn about what makes Montana’s fisheries so special. Attached is the postcard that is being mailed out. Please feel free to forward on to interested friends. If you have any questions, please contact Bill Bean at 363-6158, Fishaus@blackfoot.net

Link to programs offered by Bitterrroot TU


Elks Lodge

maps.google.com

203 State Street
Hamilton, MT 59840-2522
(406) 363-3031
Get directions

Monday, December 7, 2009

December 2009 news from Bitterroot Trout Unlimited

BRTU wishes everyone a Happy Holiday season.

It is probably a bit chilly today for even the most dedicated anglers to be out plying the waters. Plus the blanket of ice and slush complicate that perfect drift with the large stonefly nymph, assuming you have one of the new Polar winter rods with heated guides.

There is no TU meeting this month, but here are a couple of items that might be of interest.

Casting Healthy graphic

Notice of spring Fly-Casting Institute at Marcus Daly Hospital. The October presentation by Dr Tim McCue “Casting Healthy” drew one of the largest crowds we have ever had. A number of members expressed interest in learning when the next clinic would be.

See the flyer (on the left) for information about a session scheduled for next April. Certainly, as our shoulders, elbows, wrists and vision show the signs of wear and tear, many of us can use all the help we can get! The cost is a little steep – about 3 float trip equivalents - but reports suggest that the class is very valuable.

For more information about the casting clinic visit www.flycastinginstitute.com and www.mdmh.org.


Mitchell Slough redux. In case you thought the controversy over Mitchell Slough ended when the Montana Supreme Court rendered its decision, think again! The latest wrinkle relates to some of the landowners establishing feeding stations for migratory waterfowl on their property in an effort to snark duck hunters from hunting the waterway. It is illegal to hunt birds in an area where they are being fed. Ducks are not dumb, so they will quickly recognize that this area not only provides provender but also a refuge from the pesky shotgunners. However, the issue is complicated since a number of houses are right on the banks and also because it would be trespassing to retrieve a bird that landed on the ground instead of in the water.

Stream access only permits recreationists to stay within the highwater marks of the channel. The landowners have petitioned Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks to close the stream to duck hunting on part of the slough. MFWP is exploring solutions to this issue and has scheduled a public hearing at the Bitterroot River Inn at 6:30 pm on Wednesday, December 9. Public comments will be accepted until Friday, December 11.

Here is a link to a Ravalli Republic story that gives more detail. http://www.ravallirepublic.com/articles/2009/12/02/news/news57.tx,

This post was submitted by Marshall Bloom.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Bitterroot Trout Unlimited, exciting future for our fisheries

BRTU Auction item - painting
The excitement of our 2009 banquet is past, but not the memories. See our photo albums from the banquet below. We are already planning the next banquet. Mark your calendar for Friday, September 24, 2010. You will want to attend for the great food, people, and many auction items.

Bitterroot Trout Unlimited (BRTU) wants to thank all the supporters, donors, contributors and helpers. The 2009 annual banquet, our 30th, was a huge success. Over 200 people attended and we raised more dollars than we hoped for, quite a feat in these difficult economic times.


We have a lot planned for the coming year and your support will be critical. You will be reading about Bitterroot Trout Unlimited in the news and you will see how we work to protect, preserve and restore our streams and fisheries.

In summary, be assured that we will redouble our efforts, and your help makes this possible.

Our banquet is a popular Bitterroot event, if you want to participate or contribute, your exposure and help as a contributing business or patron is far reaching.

If clean water and healthy trout are important to you, join our organization and consider serving on our Board of Directors. We welcome all local residents and newcomers as there is much work to be done and camaraderie to enjoy!
Bitterroot Trout Unlimited contact information:
BRTU President - Bill Bean, 406-363-6158 or fishaus@montana.com
Banquet organizer -Marshall Bloom, 406-363-3485 or drtrout@mbloom.net

Banquet photos of people, food, auction action and more


Photos of BRTU Auction Items


Photos of awards given at the BRTU banquet

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

30 Dozen Dry Flies in a Handcrafted Designer Wood Box

It is the 30th anniversary so there are 30 dozen flies...and a twist...in this box. It is handcrafted of many beautiful woods. This will be a treasure for one lucky bidder.


Geoff Fitzgerald's Famous Dry Fly Box -- Geoff is the current President of Bitterroot Trout Unlimited and dedicated to trout, trout habitat, trout fishing, and all things trout.


Wednesday, September 9, 2009

2009 BRTU Banquet Live Auction Program - Join us September 25th

BRTU 2009 Banquet Ticket

2009 BRTU Banquet
Live Auction Program

LA-: “The Art and Soul of Cooking.” Robert Neaves, Owner of Art Focus, is well-known as a master of oil painting. Bob has been contributing fine artwork to BRTU since our very first fundraiser 29 years ago and is the only artist to have donated every year. However, Bob is also a master cook of gourmet continental cuisine. He regularly leads trips to Europe that meld fine art and history with sublime culinary experiences. This singular premium pairs a gourmet continental dinner for four prepared by Bob with an original oil painting to commemorate the meal. So, prepare your sense and dig deep for this premium. (Item # 2) Winning Bid: ______ Bidder Number: ______
Art Focus - Fine Arts and Framing
215 West Main Street
Hamilton, MT 59840
406-363-4112

LA-: “Jenny’s River.” People who float the Bitterroot River with BRTU member and guide Jenny West come away with a special perspective on the river. Jenny has a unique approach to fishing and a winning way with the fish. Jenny was born and raised on the river so her feel is truly instinctive. If you select this one day float trip for two on the Bitterroot, you will experience Jenny’s River. (Item # 16) Winning Bid: ______ Bidder Number: ______

LA- : “Flathead Angler’s Sandwich.” This great premium consists of a float trip for 2 in the Flathead area, donated by Lakestream Fly Shop of Whitefish, sandwiched between 2 night accommodations for 2 at the award winning Grouse Mountain Lodge in Whitefish. Lakestream is the premier shop in this area and Grouse Mountain Lodge cannot be beat! How can you lose with this premium? (Item # 72, 74) Winning Bid: ______ Bidder Number: ______

LA- : “Gunning for the Big Boys.” Gunning for the Big Boys is the expression used by the guides from Bozeman’s Montana Troutfitters when they head out. Although this expression is particularly apt in the fall, it is true in just about any season and on any river in the Bozeman area if you know what you are doing. Started in 1978, Montana Troutfitters was Bozeman’s first full-service fly fishing shop and has maintained a high reputation for guides, equipment, and advice. Manager Kris Kumlien, who is the son of legendary Bozeman guide Dave Kumlien, carries on the tradition and exacting standards at Troutfitters and has generously offered this exclusive one-day fishing trip for 2 anglers. http://www.troutfitters.com/ (Item # 53) Winning Bid: ______ Bidder Number: ______

LA-: “Haunted by Waters.” Inspired by the famous ending of A River Runs Through It, internationally recognized Montana artist Monte Dolack has created this gorgeous scene of an angler on the Blackfoot River. The location is near one of the spots specifically mentioned by Norman Maclean in the novella. The edition is limited to 100 using the archival process of giclee printing. Monte and his wife Mary Beth Percival own Monte Dolack Gallery and they have donated this special piece of art. http://www.dolack.com/ (Item # 21) Winning Bid:________ Bidder Number:_______

LA- : “1/2 Day Duck Hunt for 2 at The Teller with framed Joe Thornbrugh Montana Ducks Unlimited print.” The Teller recently partnered with Trout Unlimited and others on a major stream restoration project on Gird Creek. This and other projects have led to some of the finest duck shooting opportunities in Western Montana. You can find out for yourself, because The Teller has generously donated a ½ day duck hunting trip. In case your shooting skills are a little rusty, this premium is matched with a framed limited edition Joe Thornbrugh Montana Duck Unlimited print donated by BRTU board members Theresa Blazicevich and Dave Woodgerd. Proceeds from this premium will go towards BRTU’s Bitterroot Buggers and education programs. http://www.tellerwildlife.org/ (Items # 17, 62) Winning Bid: ______ Bidder Number:______

LA- : “Spaghetti and Meatballs – NOT: A Tempting Taste of Tuscany.” Amble up the West Fork to the Elk Track Ranch where the ambiance of Tuscany will greet up to eight dinner guests. The menu will reflect the regional cuisine and Tuscan style of dining. Don’t expect spaghetti and meatballs like Mom used to make! Donated by Dick and Judy, The Italian, Estler
Must be used by September 1, 2010. (Item # 18) Winning Bid: ______ Bidder Number: ______

LA-: “Dinner and a Show - and No Drive Home.” Thanks to the generosity of Gordon Maus who is Technical Production Director for Missoula Children’s Theatre, BRTU is pleased to offer this great Missoula premium. Start off with dinner for 2 at the acclaimed Finn & Porter, followed by 2 tickets for a wonderful performance at the Missoula Children’s Theatre.(Reserve your tickets early!) Best of all, the premium includes overnight accommodations for 2 at the Edgewater Doubletree. Once you check in, you won’t have to get in your car until you head home the next morning. In fact, you might not want to come back home at all! (Items # 4,5,6 ) Winning Bid: ______ Bidder Number: ______

LA-: “Matched Trio of Split Bamboo “Rods”.” Glenn Brackett and Jerry Kustich, known as the booboys operate Sweetgrass Rods in Twin Bridges and make the finest split bamboo rods in the world. For our 30th anniversary banquet, the booboys have created a unique one-of-a-kind set of three 2 piece “rods.” – a four-strip set, a five-strip set and a six-strip set. These are the very first rods like this that the booboys have ever crafted and they will test your skills on patterns like Kung Pao Chicken, Suan La Tang, and Ma-Po Tofu. http://www.sweetgrassrods.com/ (Item # 10) Winning Bid: ______ Bidder Number: ______

LA-: “Two Nights for 4 in the Big Hole at an Exclusive Private Bed and Breakfast.” The Bitter Root Land Trust is working hard to help preserve critical resources and open space in our valley. BRTU is again partnering with the Land Trust to support their important efforts. The Land Trust is donating two nights for 4 people at a beautiful private Bed & Breakfast Retreat. The home is nine miles north of Wisdom on a bench overlooking the Big Hole Valley. The home is on 40 acres, situated in the middle of a 12,000 acre working ranch. Your host, BRLT Executive Director Gavin Ricklefs, will prepare 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners and even pack you picnic lunches. You’re not far from public access on the Big Hole River - bring your waders, fly rod and your raft. All proceeds from this premium will go to the Bitter Root Land Trust. http://www.bitterrootlandtrust.org/ (Item # 71) Winning Bid: ______ Bidder Number: ______

LA- : “A Day on the Big Hole.” Former BRTU President “Banjo Jack” Mauer, owner of Wapiti Waters, has guided extensively on the Big Hole River for many years. The Big Hole is known as the most perfect trout stream, and a day with Jack will show you why. The water is gorgeous and the fish are strong. After a day of personalized instruction on the Big Hole for 2 anglers with Jack, you will want to return over and over. If you prefer, Jack may be able to substitute a trip on the Bitterroot. http://www.wapiti-waters.com/ (Item # 13) Winning Bid: ______ Bidder Number:______

LA-: “The Kootenai and the Yaak.” Ever wonder what it was like fishing in Montana before there was an espresso stand and a Lexus at every pull-out? To find out, come and fish the Kootenai or Yaak River with Tim and Joanne Linehan of Linehan Outfitting Company and spend a night in a lovely cabin in the wild, but captivating upper Yaak River Valley. This is a genuine Montana experience that will draw you back again. http://www.fishmontana.com/ (Item # 20 ) Winning Bid: ______ Bidder Number: ______

LA- : “Bitterroot Honey Hole.” Nationally recognized Missoula watercolorist Kendahl Jan Jubb, co-owner of Jubb-Murphy Fine Art in Missoula is acclaimed for her unique approach to scenes of nature. Her highly sought and brightly colored fish, wildlife, birds, and flowers are exquisitely rendered and striking in appearance. Kendahl and her husband Ram Murphy have generously donated a personally embellished giclee print for the BRTU banquet, the first TU banquet to which Kendahl has donated. The print has been framed by Joe’s Studio. http://www.kendahljanjubb.com/ (Item # 54) Winning Bid:____ Bidder Number:___

LA-: “Thirty Dozen Flies in a Presentation Box.” In a singular effort for our 30th anniversary banquet, BRTU President Geoff FitzGerald has organized a cadre of local flytiers to create a collection of 30 dozen flies. Geoff has also arranged for a one-of-a-kind presentation display case handcrafted by Dave Bryan. At more than a fly a day, no matter how much you fish, this premium ought to sustain you through a full year. Don’t count, but there are actually more than 30 dozen! And after the flies are all gone, you still have the gorgeous box.(Item # 14, 33) Winning Bid: ______ Bidder Number:

LA-: “A Cutthroat on the Bitterroot.” Long time contributor Judith DeYoung has painted a gorgeous cutthroat for this year’s 30th anniversary banquet. Her original scratchboard elegantly depicts a native cutthroat trout, Judy is the acknowledged expert in this demanding art form and this time the fish will hook the angler! Framing is by Robert Neaves of Art Focus. (Items # 48) Winning Bid: ______ Bidder Number: ______

LA-: “Angler’s Seasons.” Dick Estler and Eddie Olwell have teamed up for a wonderful premium. Dick’s lovely original watercolor titled “Every Fisher’s Winter Dream is framed in antique barn board and willow and a one day float trip for two with former BRTU President Eddie Olwell of Fishs EddieO Outfitters fills out the package. In addition to being an excellent flytier and angler, Dick is a great artist and Eddie’s skill as a guide is guaranteed to hook you some trout. Plus, Eddie’s New Jersey accent and wit will make you think you’re fishing with a real wise guy. (Items # 12, 19) Winning Bid: ______ Bidder Number:__________

LA- : “Framed Stonefly Prismacolor and Realistic Nymphs.” UM Entomology Professor, Dr Diana Six, has created another one-of-a-kind premium for this year’s banquet. A framed Prismacolor drawing of a stonefly nymph is accompanied by a number of realistic stonefly patterns. Diana studies insects for a living and her skills as an artist and flytier are evident in this exclusive offering. (Item # 56) Winning Bid:____ Bidder Number:___

LA-: “Russ Peak “Zenith” flyrod.” Legendary California rodmaker Russ Peak was referred to as a “Stardivarius” and is acknowledged to have been one of the greatest private rodbuilders of all time. Russ worked only in glass and graphite; in the ‘60’s and ‘70’s he spent summers on Rock Creek perfecting designs for a limited and very exclusive clientele, including Tom McGuane and Harmon Henkin. Tom has written that Russ was “the ne plus ultra rodmaker in the seventies when I was fishing two hundred days a year.” This near mint condition Russ Peak “Zenith” was custom-made for Pasadena, CA rod collector and BRTU member, Dr. Martin Weiss, who knew Russ well. The rod is, serial number 14356, 8’ 2 ½” and is rated for 5-6-7 weight line, and is a superior collectible. As you can learn on eBay, Russ’s rods command a premium value on the secondary market. (Item # 28) Winning Bid:____ Bidder Number:___

LA-: A Day on the Lake with 2009 Bassmaster Classic Contender Jay Evans. Spend a day on Noxon Rapids Reservoir chasing trophy smallmouth bass with Professional Bass Tournament Angler Jay Evans. Jay is a four-time and current Montana BASS Federation Angler of the Year, 3-time BASS Federation National Championship Qualifier and represented the BASS Federation Western Division at the 2009 Bassmaster Classic in Shreveport, LA. He has served on the Bitterroot Trout Unlimited Board of Directors for the last 8 years and is the Conservation Director for Montana BASS Federation Nation. This once in a lifetime fishing trip includes a full-day guided trip for 2 on Noxon Rapids Reservoir. You and a guest will spend the day chasing trophy smallmouth bass in a 2009 Triton X3 Bass Boat powered by a 250hp Mercury Pro XS Motor, MotorGuide 109TE Electric Motor and Lowrance HDS Electronics. Trip includes all necessary equipment, gas, lunch and 1 night accommodations at Lakeside Resort in Trout Creek, MT. Sponsors: Triton Boats, Mercury Motors, Motorguide, Lowrance Electronics, Optima Batteries, G. Loomis, Gary Yamamoto Custom Baits, Gamma Technologies, Simms Fishing Products, Lakeside Resort (Item # 78) Winning Bid:_______ Bidder Number:___________



BRTU apologizes for any errors or omissions.
Items and order are subject to change.
All sales are final and the auctioneer’s word is law!

For tickets and information call:
BRTU President: Geoff FitzGerald at 406-375-9064 or email fitzes91@yahoo.com.
Or
Fishaus Fly Fishing
Bill Bean
702 North First Street
Hamilton, MT 59840
(406) 363-6158 or toll free (888) 363-6158
email fishaus@montana.com