Besides the challenge of hunting elk, deer, etc. with a bow, I 

 hunt them mainly for meat. There's more challenge hunting with a 

 bow and there's not as many people out hunting them at this time. 

 Our local hunting grounds are very populated durring rifle 

 season. 



I don't believe that the archer should be charged more for their 

 license or stcunp than they are at present. If the Fish and Game 

 Dept. needs more funds for operational needs etc I feel it should 

 be made up by the out-of-state hunters. 



I also believe that any out-of-state hunters booking with an 

 outfitter should have preference in the drawings over the non- 

 booking out-of-state hunters. I know of many who book for one 

 year to learn an area, then just by a license and come on their 

 own to the same area year after year. This doesn't bring as much 

 revenue into the state, and many outfitters are being cheated out 

 of their business. We are interested in the economy of the state 

 and our wildlife plays an important role in our economy. 

 So far, Montana hasn't had any problems selling their out-of- 

 state permits. 



I am dissatisfied with the ratio of bulls to cow elk in our area. 

 I believe the elk population has increased lately but there are 

 more dry cows than one with calves . In some areas the cow season 

 should run longer or a restriction put on the amount of spikes 

 taken . 



Our deer population has definitely decreased recently. I believe 

 this is due to the increase of elk and big horn sheep in our 

 area. 



I am very interested in the management of out big game animals 

 and believe yours is a hard working department. 



I hunt both with bow and rifle but I feel there is a growing 

 controversy between the two types of hunters. My guess is 

 JEALOUSY. Because bow hunters get first crack at them. To me 

 thats no reason to complain. I feel they are both fine sports in 

 themselves. Hope our future hunting in Montana continues towards 

 sportsmanship and enjoyment. 



Response to F E . : Is and will continue to be controversy between 

 primitive equipment shooters & compound shooters. The very 

 simple truth is that compounds are 15%-20% faster than primitive 

 equipment and far more accurate at ranges to 40 yards. Cleaner 

 kills go the the compound shooter. Don't get involved in 

 favoring primitive equipment over compound shooters . Already 

 enough unnecessary friction. 



Most importantly, do not allow crossbows in the field with 

 longbows (primitive & compound) . Too much like having a rifle in 

 an archery area. They are commonly seen scope sighted and 

 require no physical effort to aim. An unfair situation 

 particularly to bugled elk or tree stand hunting whitetails. 

 Thank you . 



Sorry about not sending this in time for the drawing. Next time 



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