Showing posts with label Montana Fly Fishing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Montana Fly Fishing. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Bitterroot fly fishing workshop in May presented by BRTU and FFB


The  Bitterroot Chapter of Trout Unlimited and the Fly Fishers of the Bitterroot proudly present a fly fishing workshop

A comprehensive course  for beginner and intermediate anglers


  • Classes will be 6-8:30 pm on four Wednesdays in May (5/1, 5/8, 5/15, 5/22) at the Corvallis Middle School Cafeteria for anglers 16 and older.
  • Casting, gear, entomology, casting, knots, fly tying and many other important subjects will be covered.
Cost for the four classes is $50.00, and includes a one year membership to either Fly Fishers of the Bitterroot (FFB) or Bitterroot Trout Unlimited (BRTU) – your choice.  The fee is only $35.00 if you are already a member of one of these organizations.

For more information or to register call Jim Cline (FFB) at 406-363-2516, Phil Romans (FFB) at 406-363-0744 or Greg Chester (BRTU) at 406-363-0033

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Public input sought for Montana fishing regulations - Hamilton meeting is June 8

Photo courtesy Billy Burk

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks review statewide fishing regulations and proposal changes every four years and offers public discussion forums. 
The 2011 MT FWP review public meeting in Hamilton, Montana is:
  • Date: Wednesday, June 8
  • Time: 7:00 pm
  • Where: Bitterroot National Forest Supervisor's Office, 1801 North 1st, Hamilton, MT 406-363-7100. Park behind the building and enter through the back door.

There are a number of proposals statewide. Some of the proposals could potentially affect the fishing regulations in the Bitterroot. Specifically, the two proposals that anglers in the Bitterroot might be interested in are:  
1. Increasing harvest on expanding brown trout populations in areas such as Rock Creek (near Clinton), Bitterroot River and Clark Fork River drainages. and

2. Simplify the regulations throughout the Region by reducing the number and variety of harvest regulation exceptions, particularly within the Bitterroot drainage and between rivers.

Montana Fish  Wildife and Parks will present information and accept comments from the public.
The public comments will be considered when recommendations are placed on the statewide list of tentative proposals. The tentative list will be available this summer and additional  comments accepted at that time. Eventually, the Montana Fish and Game Commission will make final decisions in October 2011.
Questions? Email Chris Clancy at cclancy@fs.fed.us

Monday, September 20, 2010

2010 BRTU Banquet - Friday, September 24, in Hamilton, MT


Kingfisher by Monte Dolack www.dolack.com
Tickets are moving well for this Friday’s banquet, September 24, but there are still some left.

The list in this blog entry is only the Live Auction items and does not include the spectacular list of things we have for the Silent Auction, raffle and door prizes. And, you won't want to miss the wonderful dinner by Riversong Catering.

The event is at the Bitterroot River Inn and begins at 5:00 pm.

You can reserve or purchase tickets at:
Fishaus Tackle (click for map), 406-363-6158, fishaus@blackfoot.net or

Western Flies andGuides
(click for map), 406-363-9099, westernfliesandguides@gmail.com.

If you are coming to the banquet, please feel free to stop by early on Friday afternoon to reserve some seats.

See you there! 

LA-01: “Tie One for the Buggers.”  For more than a decade, BRTU has sponsored the Bitterroot Buggers so that local kids can learn about flytying, flyfishing and trout conservation. This year with the involvement of Hamilton teacher Ria Overholt, the club has moved to the next level. At tonight’s banquet, Bitterroot Buggers Shelby Harrness and Matt Bienusa have been applying their considerable flytying skills to create this premium. The proceeds from the flies will help us maintain a high level of support for this flagship program. (Item #55)
Winning Bid: _______ Bidder Number:___

LA-02: “Sweetgrass Rods Bamboo Walking Stick and Print.” The “Booboys” aka Glenn Brackett and Jerry Kustich operate Sweetgrass Rods in Twin Bridges and make the finest split bamboo rods in the world. For our 31st anniversary banquet, the Booboys have created not a rod, but rather a highly unique bamboo walking stick. The skill that the Booboys put into everything they make is evident in this highly original item. In addition, this auction premium includes a framed Russell Chatham Sweetgrass Print. When the Booboys left that other company to found Sweetgrass Rods, Russ felt that the “tradition was continuing” and authorized an updated version of this long unavailable picture. Framing by Art Focus. (Item #4)
Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number: ______

LA-03:  “A Trip to Tuscany.” 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 31 years ago and is the only artist to have donated every year. However, Bob is also a master cook of gourmet continental cuisine. His trips to Europe meld fine art and history with sublime culinary experiences. This singular premium pairs a gourmet Tuscan dinner for four prepared by Bob with an original oil painting to commemorate the meal. So, prepare your senses and dig deep for this premium. (Item #3)
Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number: ______

LA-04:  “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 fishing the river so her delicate feel is truly instinctive. If you select this one day float trip for two on the Bitterroot, you will experience Jenny’s River. (Item #13)
Winning Bid: ________   Bidder Number: _______

LA-05:  “Tacos and Nachos – NOT!!!!: A Mexican Fiesta.” Head south up the West Fork to the Elk Track Ranch where the ambiance of a Mexican Fiesta will greet up to eight dinner guests.  The menu will reflect a sophisticated Mexican cuisine and style of dining.  Don’t expect tacos and nachos! Donated by Dick and Judy Estler. Must be used by September 1, 2011. (Item #9)
Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number: ______

LA-06:  “The Kingfisher.” Inspired by a sight familiar to all anglers, internationally recognized Montana artist Monte Dolack has created this evocative scene of a Kingfisher perched in a snag surveying the river.  The location is not important, but some more experienced anglers may recognize the particular bend. Monte and his wife Mary Beth Percival own Monte Dolack Gallery and they have donated this special piece of art. www.dolack.com  (Item #16)
Winning Bid: ________  Bidder Number:_______

LA-07:  “A Naturalist’s Day on the River.” All too often when we float the Bitterroot, we forget the magical features of our wonderful river system. Well, leave the rod and reel at home when you and a companion take this float trip with Fred Weisbecker, but do bring your camera and binoculars. Few people have as comprehensive a grasp of the ecology, flora and fauna on the river as Fred does. And, you can top the day off with a superb dinner in a natural setting at The Farm Table at Sleeping Child Farms. (Items #24, 53)
Winning Bid: ________  Bidder Number:_______

LA-08:  “A Pink Rod and a PSA.”  Every year Temple Fork Outfitters produces a limited number of pink flyrods. Organizations like ours auction these sought after rods to underwrite worthy projects the purpose of which is to promote breast cancer awareness, diagnosis and treatment. BRTU is proud to donate this rod to assist local efforts in our community. In addition, Dr. Matt Munding of Ravalli Urology and Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital are donating a complete prostate screening, including a PSA and an exam, to flesh out the package. Proceeds from this premium will go to the Aid For Mammography program at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital, a project that makes breast cancer screening possible for women who could not otherwise afford it. (Items #12, 111)
Winning Bid: _______ Bidder Number: ___

LA-09:  “A Cutthroat on the Bitterroot.” Long time contributor Judith DeYoung has painted a gorgeous cutthroat for this year’s 31st 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 The Frame Shop. (Item #25)
Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number: ______

LA-10:  “Antique Fishing Treatise Dated 1807.” In 18th and 19th century England, private angling treatises described fish and their habitat, along with “bait and bobs.” Long-time BRTU supporter Jay Haglund chanced upon this singular treasure in an antique book seller’s lair. It has interesting information about fish, habitat, tackle and some entomology. This is a rare collector’s item and certainly one of the most unusual premiums we have ever had. (Item #48)
Winning Bid:_______ Bidder Number:_____

LA-11:  “Picture Your Home in This Frame!”  Local artist Dale Jorgenson has gained recognition with his commissioned watercolors of homes, scenes, pets and fish. His previous experience as an architect gives his renderings a fine sense of perspective for homes and scenery. For our 2011 banquet, Dale has offered to create a framed watercolor of your home, a favorite scene, or a beloved pet. A one of a kind item. (Item # 7)
Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number: ______

LA-12:  “Ross and Scott.” Not a new Celtic duo from Scotland, but a great packable combo for serenading the trout on the Tay, the Spey or even a wilderness loch in the Bitterroots. A 9 ft 4 piece A3906 Scott flyrod is matched with a Ross CLA2 Reel equipped with a 6 wt Scientific Anglers flyline. This package donated by BRTU, Western Flies and Gudies, and Fishaus Tackle will have you dancing the jig while you fish. www.scottflyrod.com and www.rossreels.com (Items #11, 32)
Winning Bid: _______ Bidder Number:______

LA-13:  “A Day on the Blackfoot.” Former BRTU President “Banjo Jack” Mauer, owner of Wapiti Waters, has guided extensively on the Blackfoot River for many years. The Blackfoot is known as a river of many moods, and a day with Jack will show you the tricks. The water is varied and gorgeous and the fish surprisingly strong. After a day of personalized instruction on the Blackfoot for 2 anglers with Jack, you will want to return over and over. If you prefer, Jack may be able to substitute a late summer trip on the lower Bitterroot flyfishing for both tricos and northern pike; he calls it trico-piko. www.wapiti-waters.com (Item #17) Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number: ______

LA-14: “A Private Wine Tasting Event.” In the time since Gena Eales opened her store, Provisions Fine Foods & Wines has become the place in town for reliable gourmet fare - fine wines, quality microbrews and artisan food products. By special arrangement with BRTU, Provisions Fine Foods is donating a Private Wine Tasting for Eight People in your own home. Gena will select a number of high end vintages; you and your guests will learn how to evaluate, score, and appreciate the wines. This premium will turn one of your dinner parties into a truly memorable social event. (Item #67)
Winning Bid: ________   Bidder Number: ______

LA-15:  “Montana Trout.”  Missoula watercolorist Kendahl Jan Jubb is critically acclaimed for her unique approach to trout and nature. This piece is a vivid rendering of an underwater fantasy at a favorite Montana fishing spot.  Kendahl and her husband Ram Murphy, co-owners of Jubb-Murphy Fine Art, have contributed this archival quality limited edition print for our banquet -  the only TU chapter to which Kendahl has donated. Framing by Joe’s Studio.  http://www.kendahljanjubb.com (Item #10)
Winning Bid:_______ Bidder Number:___

LA-16: “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. www.bitterrootlandtrust.org (Item #28)
Winning Bid: _________   Bidder Number: ______

LA-17: “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 year-round in the Bozeman area if you are in the know. 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, 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. They’ll pick the river and -oh, yes - better leave your teeny tiny 3-weight at home. www.troutfitters.com (Item #59)
Winning Bid: _________   Bidder Number: ______

LA-18:  “The Ultimate Gift for an Angler.” This item may well be the last piece of equipment that any angler will need! Ron Brothers of Brothers Mortuary has donated a premium bronze plaque that can be inscribed with the text of your choice. Matthews Bronze is acknowledged to be the premier fabricator of bronze plaques, and this item is suitable to commemorate a loved one or a pet, to denote a special event or to mark a special location or new home. The plaque can be mounted on a memorial, a large rock or tree, a masonry wall or almost any other structure. (www.brothersmortuary.com, http://www.matthewsbronze.com)     (Item #33)
Winning Bid: _______ Bidder Number:_____

LA-19:  “Before Blodgett Camp.” Legendary photographer Ernst Peterson ranged our mountains, streams and backcountry with his heavy camera in the mid-20th century. He also captured Bitterroot scenes that now represent a by-gone era. By exclusive arrangement with the Ravalli County Museum, BRTU is pleased to offer this stunning photo of an apple orchard on the near West Side before Blodgett Camp Road led to Blodgett Creek and Canyon Creek trailheads. The premium includes passes to the museum and a private viewing of the Peterson collection with museum executive director Tamar Stanley. Framing by Joe’s Studio. (Item #01)
Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number:______

LA-20:  “The Kootenai and the Yaak.” Ever wonder what it was like fishing in Montana before there was an espresso stand, a boutique flyshop and a Lexus at every pull-out? Those of us that can remember that far back call it honest fishing. To find out for yourself, come and fish the Kootenai or Yaak River on a float trip for 2 with Tim and Joanne Linehan of Linehan Outfitting Company and spend a night in a lovely cabin for 4 in the wild, but captivating upper Yaak River Valley. This is a genuine Montana experience that will draw you back again. www.fishmontana.com (Item #5)
Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number: ______

BRTU apologizes for any errors or omissions. Auction items and order are subject to change. All sales are final and the auctioneer’s word is law! Payment is expected at checkout.

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Photos of the Bitterroot Buggers

Bitterroot Buggers
Another year, another class of Bitterroot Buggers. Here is a group photo from April. See the slideshow below of casting and a fishing trip on the West Fork of the Bitterroot for Mathew Bienusa. He was guided by Bitterroot Bugger sponsor and instructor, Jeff Gray of
Western Flies and Guides

906 South 1st Street
Hamilton, MT 59840
(406) 363-9099

Monday, May 10, 2010

May Fly Fishing Clinic sponsored by BRTU the FFC  - open to all adults

Corvallis Middle School Cafeteria, 6:00 to 9:00 PM, - Four Wednesday's in May (5, 12, 19 and 26) -

Comprehensive curriculum includes basic fly fishing skills and extensive casting instruction each evening.

$50 tuition includes membership in either TU or FFC ($35 if already a member of either organization)

Click the curriculum image to download a PDF version.

Check back to see more about this class as the month goes on. For more information or to get on the mailing list for next year contact:

President: Bill Bean
fishaus@montana.com
406-363-6158

Greg Chester
Gchester55@aol.com
(406) 363-0033

Below are some photos from the first class (photos by Greg Chester)

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Bitterroot Buggers – Volunteer opportunity for final 2010 class, Sunday April 25

Rachel Tsukamoto Weissman when she was learning to fish


Sunday, April 25 4:00 - 6:00 PM at the Teller Wildlife Thomas Pond.


Thanks to all who have generously contributed  time supporting the  Bitterroot Buggers fly tying  classes.
We need your help for the last  class!

We will be casting, fishing (and grilling burgers and hot dogs !)

Not a caster or fisher person? No worries!
There are many  tasks that keep the class running smoothly - come on down!

Teller is located just outside of Corvallis. At the four-way stop in Corvallis, turn north  onto the Eastside Highway. Approximately one mile north of Corvallis, you will come to Quast Lane.   For the Slack Barn/Slack House turn west onto Quast Lane. Drive until it dead ends at Chaffin Lane. Turn south (left) onto Chaffin Lane. The Slack Barn/Slack House will be the first driveway on your right. (see below for link to a map)
We'll also draw tickets to determine the winner of the Dolak print - you'll receive one more ticket by attending - good luck!

Questions?

Thanks in advance for your valued assistance.
For more information about the sponsors, visit: BRTU www.brtu.org
and Keystone Enrichment Program http://keystonetodiscovery.org/

 

Teller Wildlife Refuge

 www.tellerwildlife.org

1288 Eastside Highway
Corvallis, MT 59828-9371
(406) 961-3507
Get directions

Monday, March 15, 2010

Bitterroot Buggers is calling for volunteers Tuesday, 3/16/10!

Bitterroot Bugger tying her fly!

We need your help again for the 4th class!
Not a tier? No worries!
We can use your help with the many administrative tasks
that keep the class running smoothly!

Tuesday, 3/16, 6:30 - 8:00 PM in the Westview School gymnasium located at 9th and Main in Hamilton. Enter through the east doors facing 9th St.

Beginners Pattern: Gold Ribbed Hare's Ear
Advanced Pattern: Bugmeister

Speaker: Chuck Stranahan - Flyfishing Etiquette, Stewardship


Don't forget to pick up a raffle ticket each night you help - there will be a drawing for volunteers in April for a framed Monte Dolak print valued at over $300. The more you attend, the better your chances!

Attention Hamilton kids!
We'll be judging flies each night for those students choosing to enter. Be sure to pick up a judging criteria sheet when you arrive.

Questions?
Call Jeff at Western Flies and Guides (406) 363-9099
Ria of the Keystone Discovery Enrichment Program (406) 363-5996 or
Greg Chester of BRTU (406) 363-0033

Thanks in advance for your valued assistance - for more information about the sponsors, visit:
BRTU www.brtu.org
and Keystone Enrichment Program http://keystonetodiscovery.org/


See the slideshow below of photos taken by Greg Chester. If you see yourself in a photo, leave a comment. If you want to see yourself in a photo, come on down!

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Bitterroot Buggers is calling for volunteers Tuesday, 3/9/10!

Jamie on the Bitterroot
We need your help again for the 3rd class!

Tuesday, 3/9, 6:30 - 8:00 PM in the Westview School gymnasium located at 9th and Main in Hamilton. Enter through the east doors facing 9th St.

Beginners Pattern: Elk Hair Caddis
Advanced Pattern: Montana Hopper


Don't forget to pick up a raffle ticket each night you help - there will be a drawing for volunteers in April for a framed Monte Dolak print valued at over $300. The more you attend, the better your chances!

Attention Hamilton kids!
We'll be judging flies each night for those students choosing to enter. Be sure to pick up a judging criteria sheet when you arrive.

Questions?
Call Jeff at Western Flies and Guides (406) 363-9099
Ria of the Keystone Discovery Enrichment Program (406) 363-5996 or
Greg Chester of BRTU (406) 363-0033

Thanks in advance
for your valued assistance - for more information about the sponsors, visit:
BRTU www.brtu.org
and Keystone Enrichment Program http://keystonetodiscovery.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

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Friday, July 31, 2009

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

Painted Rocks Reservoir State Park image by FWPHello 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.

Thursday, April 23, 2009

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

Photo courtesy of Jenny WestHave 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 photo courtesy of Jenny West
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.