Helena Recreation Report by Bob Ward and Sons – 11.8.13
By angelamontana

Posted: November 8, 2013

Hunting:

Now that we find ourselves into the hunting season a little it’s time to take stock of what we know and what we don’t. Bears are out and they are hungry getting ready for winter. Be aware around your deer or elk harvest and other natural food sources. Grab some bear spray from Bob Ward’s; it’s the most effective way to deter bear attacks. You can pick up a wolf and black bear license but you must wait 24 hours before use.

Elk and deer numbers are down by 15% on average from the past two years, but there are still some nice animals being taken. Remember we post your trophy picture on our board at Bob Ward’s, youth hunters have the best chance.

Most areas have little snow except in higher elevations. We’ve heard talk of Hells Canyon and Silver Star areas seeing movement of elk and whitetail. Near Cardwell and the Dougherty mountain area the sightings are sparse. The southern Bitterroot Valley has a chance to be good hunting this weekend.

Some sage advice from veteran hunters: Game carts and game sleds make it easy to get your game out of the woods.

Fishing:

Holding Helena Reservoir: The salmon run has slowed way down, but good news is the perch bite has been picking up close to shore. The ling are starting to get more active towards the evenings.

Missouri river: The ticket on the Missouri river is nymphs and streamer. The bite has been steady from dusk till dawn!! So get out while the fishing is good!!!

Canyon Ferry: Rainbow trout are biting on just worms and marshmallows. Walleye bite is picking up in a big way. Floating green and yellow jigs seem to be the key. Some say a lavender blade is working fairly well.

Hauser Lake: Below the dam and along steep banks of Hauser Lake, walleye have picked up big as well. Same floating green and yellow jigs with a worm or leaches are working really well. Fishing from shore is also picking using the same jig heads. Walleye fishing at the Causeway is good.

(Report by Ryan Corwin-Bob Ward and Sons; Photo:

New Podcast!

Riley's Meats - Butte Wild Game Processing