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

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Donegal TU Chapter - Stocking the Lititz Run in Pennsylvania on May 11

The Donegal Chapter of Trout Unlimited (DTU) has a few connections with Bitterroot Trout Unlimited. I stay in close touch with DTU member and our friend, Jim Wellendorf and DTU Volunteer Coordinator, Faye Haering who has family in Bigfork, has attended BRTU banquets and fished the Bitterroot on a trip donated by Dick Galli. Jim has also fished the Bitterroot with Jack Mauer.

Jim and Faye worked on this project and Jim sent us these photos. You can learn more about the stream restoration for Lititz run at:
Donegal Trout Unlimited - www.donegaltu.org/
National Trout Unlimited - Lititz Run story

The restoration is being designed by the PA Fish and Boat Commission and the plan will be finalized shortly to restore some of the area located above where the old dam was removed almost 10 years ago. This stocking project is part of the restoration of Lititz Run. Thanks Jim and Faye for sharing this with us.

Jim's note: Here are some pictures I took of this morning's stocking on Lititz Run. Please feel free to use them if you want. The first picture of the nursery operation. The rest are of Jim, Glen and some of the other volunteers doing the stocking. I was with Jim and Glen all morning and I can tell you they did a great job!

My best, Jim Wellendorf

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Montana TU moves into the historic Florence Hotel building in Missoula, MT

Missoula, MT - Come join Montana Trout Unlimited at their new office!
What:  A reception at Trout Unlimited’s new office
When: Friday May 14th from 4-6 p.m.
Where:  111 N. Higgins (Florence Building) Suite 500 (5th Floor)
Refreshments and appetizers will be served.
Questions? Contact:
Kate Grant - 406-543-0054
Program Administrator
Montana Council of Trout Unlimited
PO Box 7186
Missoula, MT  59807

www.montanatu.org

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

BRTU dry fly pattern - GT Western March Brown by Greg Chester

Fly of the Month
GT Western March Brown
(Rhrithrogena)
 by Greg Chester

Spring time on the Bitterroot is always an exciting time of the year. We start with the long awaited Skwala activity after winter and then are treated to Baetis, March Browns and Gray Drakes as spring sets in.  We’re fortunate in the Bitterroot to have such a diverse bug population and even more privileged to have such terrific hatches to fill the gap between Skwala’s and the summer bugs.


This unique pattern has worked well for me over the years and effectively imitates any mayfly adult by simply changing color and size. It’s tied in the style of Rich Christian’s GT Dun series that replicates both adult and emergent stages. This is made possible with the Gamakatsu C12U curved shank hook and unique tail placement. When fishing this bug keep floatant off of the abdomen and shuck – this is important to insure the emergent stage is replicated properly.

Good tying and good fishing!
  • Hook:        Gamakatsu C12U caddis hook, size 10 - 14
  • Thread:    6/0 Tan Unithread
  • Shuck:    Brown Zelon
  • Abdomen:    Tan goose or turkey biot
  • Tails:        Tan Microfibetts, split
  • Wing:        White polypropylene yarn, parachute style
  • Thorax:    Tan superfine dubbing
  • Hackle:    Brown
  • Head:        Tying thread

Monday, May 10, 2010

BRTU Grant Application Process for projects benefiting wild fish and habitat

Any entity with a good on-the-ground project that benefits wild fish and their habitat can apply for funding through the Bitterroot Trout Unlimited (BRTU) Fisheries Improvement Program. You are strongly urged to contact your local fisheries biologist prior to submitting an application. The local biologist typically knows the limiting factors associated with fish populations in their management area.

Applications must be completed in full, and must include detailed budget information as provided on the Budget Template.

Here are links to more information:


Note: PDF is a universal read-only format. Get a free and easy to use Adobe PDF application here.
In order to fill out the word format on your computer, you will need to download it and save it to your hard drive.


If you need any of these documents in hard copy or a different format see the contacts below. 


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

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

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)