MONTANA STATE FISH AND GAME COMMISSION 



FISH AND GAME LAW VIOLATIONS 



By Jack W. Carney 

 Assistant State Game Warden 



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Jack W. Carney 



ILFUL violation of Montana's fish and game laws are 

 decreasing. Comparison of totals compiled for the 

 1925-1926 biennium reveals a situation that is ex- 

 tremely gratifying-. The improved situation is directly trace- 

 able to two important influences. Sportsmen of the state, 

 as well as those sojourning along our woods and waters 

 have demonstrated their cooperation in the great campaign 

 of education in what constitutes sportsmanship, and this 

 fact has had much to do with reducing violations. In addi- 

 tion to this improved viewpoint, the incessant vigilance of 

 representatives of the state fish and game department and 

 the willingness of sportsmen to work hand in hand with 

 deputy wardens for the conservation of our fish and game, 

 has achieved results. Official figures compiled by the de- 

 partment show that in 1925 there were 482 arrests made for 

 violation of the fish and game laws. This total was reduced 

 to 364 in 1926, or 118 cases less than the preceding year. 

 During 1925 the total fines imposed for these violations reached $12,945. In 

 1926 this figure slumped to $12,116.45, or a drop of $728.55. These figures are 

 significant. 



A review of comparative figures for the biennium shows that the largest 

 number of arrests has been made for fishing without proper license. In 1925 

 the total reached 82, while in 1026 it was reduced to 63 despite the fact that vigil- 

 ance of game wardens on patrol duty has been increased rather than diminished. 

 This figure likewise demonstrates the effect of the campaign of education con- 

 ducted by the department and sportsmen's organizations of the state along lines 

 intended to teach anglers and hunters the value of strict observance of laws 

 enacted for the benefit of sportsmen as v/ell as for the protection of wild life. 



During 1925 there were 20 ar- 

 rests of aliens in possession of fire- 

 arms without a license, while in 

 1926 there were 25. 



In 1925 there were 18 arrests for 

 hunting on game preserves, while 

 in 1926 there were 10. 



During 1925 deputy game war- 

 dens arrested 10 for killing doe 

 deer, which are protected in most 

 counties, while in 1926 there were 

 but three. 



Difficulties involving making- 

 false statement in securing hunt- 

 ing and fishing licenses have been 



^f()un1aill lions trapped by predatory animal 

 liuntcrs and tltcir hides hung up to dry. 



