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.

• 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.

Bitterroot Trout Unlimited, exciting future for our fisheries

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.

• More blog posts about BRTU Banquet - posts about the auction items, delicious food and more
  

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

View all in a new window

Photos of BRTU Auction Items

View all 35 photos in a new window

Photos of awards given at the BRTU banquet

View all 36 photos in a new window

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.

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

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

Our Banquet Menu - One more reason to come to our Banquet

RIVERSONG CATERING
Seasonal Organic Cuisine


Menu for Trout Unlimited Annual Banquet (our 30th)
September 25th, 2009

Salads

*Fresh Bitterroot Apples, Spinach, Gorgonzola, Toasted Pecans
Balsamic Vinaigrette

Entrée’s

*Roasted Chicken with Gorgonzola Walnut Sauce and Flathead Cherries

*Smoked Montana Flat Iron Strips with Mushroom and Sage Sauté

Accompaniments

*Orzo with Roasted Summer Squash, Sweet Onion and Herbs

*Bitterroot Potato, Pecorino, Garlic and Greens Gratin


Fresh Baguette and Herb Butter

*Dark Chocolate Cups
Amaretto Mousse, Candied Chili Almonds

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 StreetHamilton, MT 59840
(406) 363-6158 or toll free (888) 363-6158

email fishaus@montana.com

Obama tries his hand at fly fishing

Local fishing guide Dan Vermillion reacts as President Barack Obama almost hooks a trout on the East Gallatin River near Belgrade, Mont., on Aug. 14, 2009.

Originally uploaded by The Official White House Photostream

He almost hooks a trout. How cool that he would let us all see him as a novice. I think he had fun, too.

Dancing Trout Ale helps celebrate Big Blackfoot Chapter of Trout Unlimited's Success and Future on Sept. 12, 2009 in Missoula

Here is a post dedicated to our neighbors, Big Blackfoot Chapter of Trout Unlimited in Missoula, Montana.

A message from our friend, Jerry O'Connell:

For the past 20 years, our Big Blackfoot Chapter Trout Unlimited (BBCTU) has done more watershed restoration and preservation than any other chapter in the US. It has gained national acclaim and recognition for the hundreds of miles of restored and protected tributaries of the Big Blackfoot River. Over the years, BBCTU has set the standard for designing, managing, and executing boots-and-shovels projects at the grass roots level.

BBCTU has done all of this without a single fundraising event. However, we feel it’s time to break that tradition as we celebrate these two decades of progress. Thus, we’ll be holding our 20th Anniversary Party on Saturday, September 12, 2009, complete with bus tours of some of our projects, cocktails, a pitchfork BBQ and an auction with some very unique items (need a steer?). It’ll be at the Rolling Stone Ranch in Ovando, right in the heart of the Blackfoot Valley.

Please come! Pass the word to your friends – the more the merrier. You can call me (244-5612) or the BBCTU offices (677-6454) to make reservations. It’s a bargain at $25 each (or $50 will get you dinner and a Monte Dolack print of the Blackfoot). Email Jerry at joconnell@blackfoot.net.

Merle's note: What a way to break tradition. If you can make this event, DO IT! It will be an amazing gathering loaded with fun and you will mingle with some of Montana's interesting, caring and socially and environmentally involved people.

About Trout Slayer and Bayern Brewery

The original brew was called Trout Slayer Ale but in 2007 on the 20th anniversary of Bayern Brewing, the oldest brewery (and in my opinion the best) in Montana decided to give Trout Slayer Ale a new face to best reflect Bayern Brewing’s environmental company philosophy.

Their search for a more appropriate name kept them coming back to “Dancing Trout.” Whether as a fishing term or in various spiritual expressions of music and dance, Dancing Trout became a symbol of celebrating life and the lifestyle embraced by Montana.

So, they also endorsed Montana Trout Unlimited. The name change to Dancing Trout Ale was not merely a cosmetic one. They knew that it was time to brew a beer with a cause. They presented the idea of making Bayern Brewing’s Dancing Trout Ale the official beer sponsor of Montana Trout Unlimited (www.montanatu.org) and were met with the organization’s immediate support and enthusiasm. Bayern Brewing pledges a portion of all merchandise and every case of beer sold to Montana Trout Unlimited to support the preservation of Montana’s trout habitat.

Click here to learn more about Bayern Brewery and Dancing Trout Ale

To order Dancing Trout gear click here

To order Dancing Trout Ale online click here

For a signed print of the original Dancing Trout artwork contact Kate at

406-543-0054 or kate@montanatu.org

Bitter Root TU Commissioned Artwork by Monte Dolack

By the way, visit another post about Dancing Trout on the fantastic Missoula beer blog, the Grizzly Growler.

Painted Rocks Reservoir in the Bitterroot Valley and How It Is Operated

Information from and email by Larry A. Schock, CFM DNRC Water Resources Division

Hello Everyone,
The DNRC has received several inquires lately concerning the outflows at Painted Rocks Reservoir and how the reservoir is operated. Therefore, the following email will provide a brief explanation of reservoir operations.

The operation of Painted Rocks Reservoir involves three main parties. The DNRC, the Painted Rocks Water Users Association (PRWUA), and the MT FWP. Painted Rocks Reservoir holds approximately 32,656 acre-feet (af) of water, with 25,000 af of that stored water marketed to the MT FWP and the PRWUA. Additionally, there is the Bitterroot River Water Commissioner who manages the river in a manner that insures the apportionment and diversion of decreed and contract waters.

The DNRC is owner of the dam and the reservoir area. It is our responsibility to insure that the reservoir is filled and operated safely and that water is available for delivery to the contract holders. Once the reservoir is full the amount of water that flows into the reservoir equals the reservoir outflows. The reservoir is held in this state of equilibrium until the contract water is requested. The DNRC is under contractual obligation to deliver the contract water a the dam to the contract holders when it is called for.

The 10,000 af (or 2/5ths) of shares that has been marketed to the PRWUA is primarily used for agriculture purposes. Releases to the PRWUA usually occurs in mid July, but it is delayed this year due to higher than normal flows on the East Fork and the Mainstem of the Bitterroot River.

The other 15,000 af (or 3/5ths) of shares has been marketed to the MT FWP for in-stream uses . The local FWP contact in the Bitterroot Valley is Chris Clancy at 363-7169. The FWP contract water is released for instream flows in the mainstem of the Bitterroot River, based upon the conditions at Bell Crossing. According to the FWP current guidelines, they determine their desired releases based upon a minimum targeted flow rate of approximately 450 cfs at the Bell Crossing gage. As of today the flow rate at the Bell Crossing gage is approximately 737 cfs. The current FWP guidelines do not discuss the release of water from the reservoir for the augmentation of flows in the West Fork of the Bitterroot River, only the mainstem of the Bitterroot River.
Recently inquires have been made to the DNRC about the following issues; low water levels effecting raft access to the river; low water levels effecting quality of fishing; low water levels effecting water temperatures; and bad access road into the shuttle parking area upstream of the USGS gage below the dam.

Low Water Levels
The low flow conditions in the West Fork of the Bitterroot River are simply a reflection of the low inflows into the reservoir. As inflows to the reservoir drop, the DNRC adjusts outflows to match. The DNRC is passing all of the inflows through the reservoir, either over the spillway or out of the low level outlet. Flows below the dam will raise, pending a call for contract water from either the PRWUA of the MT FWP. The DNRC has recently made several gate adjustments on July 23rd, 24th, and 28th in order to insure that the reservoir outflows matched the inflows. These adjustments are also needed in order to transition the flows from the spillway to the low level outlet in preparation for the anticipated contract water deliveries. An additional adjustment is anticipated on July 31st. Requests for the release of contract waters for in-stream purposes on the West Fork of the Bitterroot River should be directed to the FWP.

The dirt road that goes upstream past the USGS gage to the pioneer launch site below Painted Rocks Dam, is not a DNRC road and it is located on US Forest Service (USFS) property. Any concerns about this pioneer road, launch, and camping site should be directed to the USFS West Fork District Ranger Office.

Larry A. Schock,
CFMDNRC Water Resources Division
Missoula Regional Office
(406) 721-4284
lschock@mt.gov

Click here to go to the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks (MT FWP) site for the West Fork of the Bitterroot.
Click here to go to the MT FWP site for Painted Rocks Reservoir, Tributary of the West Fork of the Bitterroot. They have an interactive map link.
Click here for contact information for US Forest Service, West Fork Ranger District.

Fly Fishing Trip from BRTU 2008 Annual Banquet

Jeremy and Becky Anderson went to the Bitterroot Trout Unlimited Annual Banquet last September. They had a great time and won the bid on a fishing trip with Wapiti Waters. Today was the day and boy, did they catch fish!

Next years BRTU Banquet is Friday, September 25 - 2009 Annual BRTU Banquet, 5:30 pm, our 30th!!! Mark your calendar and plan to attend.

Stop by the blog again. We will be posting more information about the banquet and auction items soon.

Jeremy sent these terrific photos with this note:

Jack,

Thank you for a great time fishing on Saturday. Becky and I enjoyed it and learned a lot.
Thanks again,

Jeremy Anderson

Thank you, Jeremy and Becky. Jack really enjoyed his day with both of you.

See the slideshow below for all four photos from the Big Hole River fly fishing day.

Click here to view all in a new window.

4th Annual Bitterroot Floating Weed Pull - July 11, 9am-3pm

This event allows us to educate the public of the threats of noxious weeds, while they assist us in the removal of blueweed (a new invader) from the Bitterroot River. In the years past, Blueweed has not been found beyond Stevensville and we are working hard to completely eradicate this rapidly spreading weed from our county and stop it from spreading into neighboring counties. Every spring when the river rises, the seeds that were dropped from flowering plants the previous years are brought downstream by the water. Our goal each summer is to remove all flowering plants, so that no new seeds will be dropped.

I am writing to inform you of the event because in the past you have donated either prizes to give away or your time in helping with the event. We would very much appreciated anything that you could donate towards the event this year. Last year 60 volunteers showed up and we had over $2000 worth of prizes to give away. We hope to meet or possibly exceed these numbers this year.

Thank you for your time and consideration,

Melissa Maggio
Weed Education Coordinator
Ravalli County Weed District
(406) 777-5842
melissa.rcwd@yahoo.com

BRTU Women's Fly Fishing Clinic, May 9, 2009

Have you heard about the Bitterroot TU Women's Fly Fishing Clinic?

It is Saturday, May 9th, from 10-4pm at Teller Wildlife Refuge (click for map).

Cost is $50 - a bargain that includes lunch and a TU membership. Meet new friends and have a lot of fun.

Learn on water casting, basic knot tying, reading water...basically everthing you need to get you on the water and fishing.

To sign up and for more information, contact:

Fishaus Fly Fishing
Bill Bean
702 North First Street
Hamilton, MT 59840
(406) 363-6158 or toll free (888) 363-6158
http://fishaus.montana.com/

or contact Jenny West at jennywest30@yahoo.com or phone 363-3397.

Instructors are Jenny West, Fly Fishing Guide from Hamilton,
and Certified Casting Instructor and Guide, Stacy Jennings.

Bitterroot River and Other Stories by Chris Clancy, Montana FWP Fisheries Biologist

Bitterroot Trout Unlimited General Meeting
April 16, 2009
The Elks Club, Hamilton, Montana

Chris Clancy presented a dynamic slideshow about trout in the Bitterroot River. He shared stories, photos, fish counts and statistics, and graphs about brown, rainbow, cutthroat trout and more.

There were close to 25 people in attendance and the crowd was immersed in his talk and visual aids. Chris asked for questions, and there were some, but mostly he provided us all with current and facinating information about the state of trout and their habitat in the Bitterroot River and it's tributaries.

He also shared that Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (his office in the Bitterroot) and the Bitterroot National Forest Resource Staff have an especially effective relationship in monitoring and managing the health of the Bitterroot River, tributaries, and fishery. They share information, personnel, equipment and resources. This relationship and working with the University of Montana at Missoula and Montana State University at Bozeman allow better monitoring, information gathering and in depth studies to be accomplished. We are fortunate to have Chris and other biologists like him. Thank you all!

Chris is available for presentations. You can reach him at:
Chris Clancy, FWP, 1801 N. 1, Hamilton, MT 59840
phone: 406-363-7169
email: cclancy@mt.gov

Omnibus Public Lands Bill Passes

Omnibus public lands bill passes

The U.S. House of Representatives today passed the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009, some of the most significant conservation legislation to come before Congress in 25 years. TU is responsible for much of the act’s landscape protection legislation, including the Wyoming Range Legacy Act, the Copper-Salmon Wilderness Act and bills in California.
»Press release »Reuters article

__________________________________________
Letter From Trout Unlimited March 26, 2009 - Thank you for taking action

Yesterday marked a huge victory for Trout Unlimited and our conservation allies. The House of Representatives passed the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009, a landmark public lands protection bill that would ensure access and opportunity for hunters and anglers today and for generations to come. Passage of this bill does more for hunting and fishing and outdoor recreation than any other measure in the last 15 years. By a landslide vote of 285-140, the House of Representatives moved this bill over the finish line. Now the bill will go to President Obama for his signature on Monday, March 30th.

This victory would not have been possible without your help. Your continued engagement and efforts to communicate this bill’s importance to your Members of Congress paid out huge dividends. We were able to get landslide votes in both chambers which shows the hard work and perseverance you gave over the last 18 months. We thank you.

Because of your help, we have successfully protected over 2 million acres of public lands. We have protected places like Copper-Salmon in Oregon, the Wyoming Range in Wyoming, the Wild Monongahela in West Virginia, the Owyhees in Idaho, the Eastern Sierras in California and so many other special places. We have also permanently protected the National Landscape Conservation System, a network of highly valuable public lands of acute interest to anglers and hunters. Included in that system is the famed Gunnison Gorge of Colorado, one of the best trophy trout fisheries in the West, and the Steens Mountain region, an irreplaceable hunting and fishing destination in eastern Oregon.

In addition to protecting public lands, this bill will enact the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement, ending years of litigation, the Secure Water Act and the Cooperative Watershed Management Act. Both of the water bills will help to restore watersheds and provide the framework for working collaboratively with diverse partners to ensure adequate flows for viable fish populations across the country.

Many of the bills in the Omnibus have tremendous fish and wildlife conservation merit, have local community support –including ranchers and farmers who are partners in watershed groups – and have been developed in a bipartisan manner. Passage of the Omnibus, which includes nearly 160 bills, is truly historic and one that will be considered an outstanding achievement for generations to come.

We sincerely thank you for making it possible.

Steve Moyer
Vice President for Government Affairs
TROUT UNLIMITED
703-284-9406
smoyer@tu.org

Give a child a gift - Trout Unlimited Youth Membership

Give a child a Trout Unlimited Youth Membership.

TU has just launched a new website just for kids: http://www.streamexplorers.org/. The new site has lots of information and activities -- take a look at sections like "Go Fishing," "Fish Facts" or "Get Active." Together with our new quarterly magazine for kids, Stream Explorers, you now have a great way to introduce that special kid in your life to the world of clean water and wild fish, as well as the joy of fly fishing.

For just $12, your child, grandchild or other special young person will receive:

• Trout Unlimited's new quarterly youth magazine Stream Explorers, full of activities, games and fun facts for kids ages 13 and below. (Kids between 14 and 18 receive Trout magazine.)
• A welcome letter announcing your gift with a personalized member card, Stream Explorers decal and a TU wall calendar that will mail in late summer.
• Early invitations to view the launch of new features on http://www.streamexplorers.org/.
  

For a gift of $25, the recipient will also receive "A Kid's Guide to Flyfishing":

• With a retail value of $16, "A Kid's Guide to Flyfishing" is written by Tyler Befus, a fly angler who authored the book at age 8.

There is no better way to introduce your child, grandchild or other special young person to cold water conservation and fly fishing than by giving a TU Stream Explorers membership. It's quick, easy, and secure.

Thanks for your support,
Dave Rogers
Director of Volunteer Operations
TROUT UNLIMITED

MT HB 455 Big Sky Rivers Act Needs Your Action

This is a repost! If you haven't done so, please contact your representative and tell them to Support HB 455, The Big Sky Rivers Act. Read on for links to find contact information for your represtentative.

Help Protect Montana’s best rivers NOW!

Tell your Montana House Rep to support HB 455, The Big Sky Rivers Act!

Exploding streamside development threatens Montana’s blue-ribbon trout streams. By balancing river protection and property rights, The Big Sky Rivers Act protects water, crucial riparian areas and trout habitat from new development that occurs along 10 of Montana’s most iconic rivers.

Please contact your Representative TODAY and ask him or her to support HB 455.

HERE IS HOW:
Go here for information on how to contact your Representative and click here to find your legislator and contact them.

The Big Sky Rivers Act establishes a 250-foot protective streamside zone along 10 of Montana’s most famous rivers. It limits removal of key vegetation within a 150-foot buffer inside the streamside zone. The Big Sky River Act makes sense because it also allows local governments to opt-out of these mandatory conservation measures if they adopt ordinances or zoning rules that provide the same amount of protection.

Rivers included in the Big Sky Rivers Act: The Madison, main Flathead, Clark Fork, Bitterroot, Blackfoot, Smith, Jefferson, Upper Missouri, Upper Yellowstone and Gallatin.

Why support the Big Sky Rivers Act?
• It reduces costly flood and erosion damage by steering development away from known flood hazard areas;
• It protects private property rights by ensuring that actions of upstream landowners do not harm downstream landowners;
• It gives local governments control over the tools they need to manage their rivers;
• It protects water quality from stormwater runoff, lawn chemicals, and individual wastewater systems;
• It shields local governments from lawsuits brought by homeowners whose homes are damaged by flooding and erosion;
• It preserves critical fish and wildlife habitat by reducing the need for rip-rap and levees;
• It ensures high-quality recreational opportunities for anglers and boaters who value scenery and solitude;
• It includes a variance process to make sure no one loses the ability to build on an existing lot, and it includes a grandfather clause for existing homes.

Contact Members of the House and tell them this is a good bill. It protects private property as well as economic and recreational values all Montanans cherish.

Again go here for information on how to contact your Representative and click here to find your legislator and contact them.

What the Big Sky Rivers Act does NOT do:
• It does NOT take away the authority of local governments to create their own streamside development standards;
• It does NOT deprive riverfront landowners of the opportunity to build on their lots if their entire lot is located within a streamside management area;
• It does NOT apply within incorporated cities, towns or sanitary sewer districts;
• It does NOT prohibit property owners from rebuilding their home if it is destroyed by causes other than flooding;
• It does NOT grant public access to private property or expand the state’s stream access law.
• It does NOT affect agricultural-related buildings.

House Bill 455, the Big Sky Rivers Act, will be heard in the House Local Government Committee on Thursday, February 19th at 3:00 p.m. in room 172 of the Capitol. Please email, write, or call any and all members of the House of Representatives regarding the Big Sky River Act. If one of the following committee members represents your district, get them a message straight away!

House Local Government Committee meets Thursday, 3 p.m., Room
172

Arntzen, Elsie (R) (Chair) emarntzen@excite.com
Hands, Betsy (D) (Vice Chair) betsyhands@gmail.com
MacLaren, Gary (R) (Vice Chair) garymaclaren@yahoo.com
Becker, Arlene (D) arlene_becker@bresnan.net
Bennett, Gerald (R) jbenhd1@hotmail.com
Berry, Tom (R) tom@tomberrymt.com
Driscoll, Robyn (D) rdriscoll@peoplepc.com
Ebinger, Bob (D) buffalojump@imt.net
Grinde, Wanda (D) wsgrinde@aol.com
Hamilton, Robin (D) robinlhamilton@bresnan.net
Ingraham, Pat (R) pathd13@blackfoot.net
Menahan, Mike (D) mike@mikemenahan.com
More, Michael (R) mp_more@yahoo.com
Reichner, Scott (R) sreichner@centurytel.net
Reinhart, Michele (D) michelereinhart@gmail.com
Sands, Diane (D) hdsands@aol.com
Stahl, Wayne (R) wstahl@nemontel.com
Vance, Gordon (R) vancehd67@gmail.com

For more information contact Mark Aagenes at mark@montanatu.org or 449-9933. Or contact Bruce Farling at bruce@montanatu.org or 543-0054.

Join us on Saturday, Mar 21. We are posting Bitterroot River trout fishing regulation signs

Bitterroot Trout Unlimited wants to make it easy for the public to know and follow the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Regulations for trout fishing (excerpted from FWP regs) as they can be different on various reaches. Violations are happening and trout are being harmed. We can help stop that.

We are calling for volunteers. On Saturday, March 21, we will team up and post regulation signs at as many river access points as needed - hopefully completing the project we started last year. We invite anyone who is interested to join us.

If you want to know what Bitterroot Trout Unlimited is doing to protect the Bitterroot River, get to know our members, and enjoy a morning near the river, come to one of two places at 9:00 am:

• Safeway in Hamilton parking lot (southeast of Hwy 93 and Main Street streetlight/intersection)


• the Stevensville Fishing Access Site (northeast side of the bridge)

BRTU members will be there to meet you, organizing the day's signing efforts.

The following materials will be provided though we would welcome donations of the same:

• Staple guns (bring your own if you have one)
• Metal fence posts and pounder (can always use another pounder)
• Plywood (provided by BRTU and cut to fit the laminated signs)
• baling wire to tie on the signs on the metal fence posts (provided by BRTU)

To volunteer, donate materials, or for more information, please contact:

• Geoff Fitzgerald at fitzes91@yahoo.com or 406-375-9064


• Jack Mauer at wapiti@wapiti-waters.com or 406-642-6548


• or stop by the Fishaus Fly Fishing to talk with Bill Bean, 702 North First Street, Hamilton, MT

Below is a slideshow of Victor crossing, only a few signs remain in good shape. This area needs to be reposted.

View Album Click view album for bigger view in new window. Choose "slideshow" for full screen mode.

Examples of the signs:

BRTU Fly of the Month - Skwalla Nymph by Greg Chester

Spring is just around the corner and the sight of trout eagerly rising to a dry fly won’t come too soon. We saw a few sporadic rises early in February but it’s still a sub-surface, bottom bouncing presentation that draws the most strikes at the moment.

We’re fortunate in the Bitterroot to have such a diverse bug population and even more privileged to have the Skwalla Stonefly to kick off our spring fishing. Before hitting the river most anglers wait for the bugs to surface, but if you’re really eager to get started I think you’ll be pleased with some nymph fishing until the fish start looking up, plus you’ll likely have your special spot all to yourself.


This basic pattern has worked well for me over the years and you can imitate any stonefly nymph by simply changing color and size. You may embellish it with soft hackle or rubber legs, a segmented thorax or a bead but it works quite well as shown. This pattern calls for dark olive but dark brown will likely work as well. I tie it weighted and add split shot when fishing. Work on getting a natural drift - it’s just as important when bouncing nymphs along the bottom as it is dead drifting a dry over risers.

• Hook: Size 8 or 10 heavy wire 3XL nymph hook (Dai-Riki #710 e.g.)


• Weight: 10 – 15 wraps of .025 diameter lead wire


• Thread: 3/0 Dark olive Unithread


• Tails: Black or dark brown goose biots, split


• Abdomen: Dark olive Hare-Tron dubbing tightly wrapped in a dubbing loop


• Ribbing: Black vinyl v-rib, medium


• Wing case: Dark olive or dark brown Thin Skin


• Thorax: Dark olive Hare-Tron dubbing picked out on sides & trimmed flat on bottom


• Head: Tying thread

Good tying and good fishing!

BRTU General Meeting presents Rob Breeding and Guiding on the Flathead River in NW Montana

Note: This meeting was cancelled and the speaker will be rescheduled. Check back for a complete schedule of general meetings and presenters. We are sorry for any inconvenience we may have caused.

The general meeting is at the Elks Club in Hamilton on Thursday, February 19 at 7:00 PM. Email Geoff Fitzgerald for more information at fitzes91@yahoo.com.

Rob Breeding is an outdoor writer who has worked for newspapers in Montana, Arizona, California and Idaho. He moved to Hamilton, Mont. in 1992, where he won his first Montana Newspaper Association Award for outdoor writing while working at the Ravalli Republic newspaper. After working in Arizona (where he edited the state's top outdoors section at the Arizona Daily Sun in Flagstaff) and Idaho, he returned to Montana in 2006. He has worked in journalism as a writer, editor and professor for more than 20 years. He teaches journalism at Flathead Valley Community College and previously taught at Northern Arizona and Idaho State universities.

Home | Stream Explorers - THE COOLEST PAGE for kids!!!

Home Stream Explorers

"TU has a new group of members--a bunch of Stream Explorers. Youth 15 and under have a special membership level now, including their own magazine and website. Launched February 1, the Stream Explorers website introduces kids to the basics of fishing (GO FISH), trout science (FISH FACTS), and conservation (GET ACTIVE). Take a look at this great new perk for TU kids at http://www.streamexplorers.org/.

The MEMBERS section will help you help your favorite youngster become a Stream Explorer.

»Sign a child up for Stream Explorers »streamexplorers.org"

Celebrating 50 Years - Trout Unlimited

Trout Unlimited is celebrating 50 years of conserving, protecting and restoring North Americas coldwater fisheries and their watersheds. Visit http://www.tu50.org/ for more information.

TU will host its 50th anniversary celebration and annual meeting at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in Traverse City, Michigan, not far from where TU was founded 50 years ago. A week-long schedule of events will mark the celebration. From hosted fishing trips, visits with fly fishing notables, casting contests and much more, the event will be a memorable celebration.

• Time and Place: Monday, August 17-24, 2009 at 12:00am
  Location: Grand Traverse Resort and Spa
  Street: 100 Grand Traverse Village Boulevard
  City/Town: Traverse City, MI
  View Map
  
  Contact Info Phone: 1-800-834-2419

Fishing the Clark Fork River with "Trout Unlimited On the Rise"

Trout Unlimited On the Rise
Clark Fork River: Missoula, MT
Sat, Jan 24, 2:00 PM Run Time: 30 min.
OUTDR 153 on Dish Network
Genre: Sports, Sports non-event
First Aired: Jan 23, 2009
Topic: Fishing the Clark Fork River

I know this is a Bitterroot TU blog, but in this episode, Bitterroot Trout Unlimited Board Member, Jack Mauer, is fishing with Host Frank Smethurst. Check it out.

Milltown Cleanup Update for Guides

On Wednesday, Feb. 4, from 5:30-7:30PM, the Clark Fork Coalition and Montana Trout Unlimited will co-host Guiding Without the Dam, an update for guides on the Milltown cleanup project, at the Coalition offices at 140 S. 4th St. W. Free pizza and beer will be served.

Please RSVP to info@clarkfork.org or 406-542-0539.

Click Montana Trout Unlimited or Clark Fork Coalition for more information on the projects and issues they are working on.

Winter in the Bitterroot

I am sharing photos of the Bitterroot valley, river and mountains in December. View the slide show or click on it to view the web album.

View Album

We had rain, then snow, then FREEZING COLD, then rain, more snow...a very unusual early winter. There is a lot of moisture, much beauty, and I need to mention the avalanche danger again. If you aren't fishing in this cold, you might be hiking or skiing. Be safe. Visit the website Avalanche Information for West Central Montana for a current avalanche danger report.