I am a little less likely to bash FWP as many here get such satisfaction in doing so. I believe the FWP is over burdened and underfunded for the size of this state and the diversity in not only game, but the immensity of Montana. I also don’t think the department is run to enhance Gianforte’s friends and his hunting habits.
I don’t know Worsech or how inept he really is, but I have been a casualty in the FWP drawing statistics. When I applied for my moose permit in 2020, they transposed the last 2 digits in my hunting area and I drew a permit in the wrong area. I talked to the permit specialist and asked that since I was successful, if they could give me the tag for the next year and I would wait a year so I wouldn’t mess up their statistics for 2020.
They told me there was no statute for doing that, and even though it was their mistake, they said I had to August 15 to take the tag they gave me or turn it in and I would be put back in the drawing for the next year. I told them that if they gave the same opportunity to the Powerball Jackpot winner, they would have a riot on their hands. They were unmoved by my analogy and told me to take it or leave it.
I took it and shot the biggest moose I ever saw in Montana. I know it was all luck, but the game warden in the area that I did get the permit in, said there were so few moose in that area, they shouldn’t be issuing any permits there.
What do you do? I am not leaving Montana and I am not going to quit hunting…