Trip to western Montana

[Pagosa]

We are about to finish up my family vacation in Montana on Sunday. Me and my wife used to call Colorado home;, but land values, current politics, and working for a company based in the northwest we were looking for other places to call home. Today our offer was accepted for a farm in the Misson Valley by Ronan.

I've spent the last 17 years working in various states in the west/midwest on oil/gas and electrical transmission projects. Most of that time was spent working 60-75 hours per week. We have been married for 8 years and lived in seven states. I will still be traveling 3-5 months per year, but mostly in a four state area.

I feel completely humbled and extremely blessed by God to have a life-long dream fulfilled. We have seen bighorns, mtn goats, pronghorn, whitetail, mule deer, turkey, bear, and lots of elk. Fishing was tough, but like my little 5 year old boy says " girls love me , and fish fear me." I have traveled most of North America and New Zealand and have yet to see a place so well created as Glacier. Met some fine individuals too. It will be a couple years before I'm a legal resident and have a lot of loose ends to finish in Colorado. But its the start of a new step for my family. So thankful

 

[mtmuley]

Welcome to Montana. mtmuley

 

[Carrion Carrier]

It will not take you long to find some of the best fishing in Western Montana where you are!

 

[Randy11]

Unbelievable place to settle down, you're a lucky man. Waking up everyday and looking at the Missions would be a treat. I thought real hard about buying a house in St. Ignatius last year, but couldn't talk myself in to the commute.

Downside is not being able to hunt on the reservation, and you're right in the middle of it there so you'll have a bit of a drive anytime you want to go.

 

[Pagosa]

We are so excited. Thanks for the welcome. It seems like either a raft or boat would be beneficial to fishing success. This is big water compared to Colorado.

 

[shoots-straight]

We are so excited. Thanks for the welcome. It seems like either a raft or boat would be beneficial to fishing success. This is big water compared to Colorado.

Congrats to you Pagosa, now would you please close the gate behind you.

I was born looking at the Bitterroot range, and have taken it for granted. As I age, I now see what my youth couldn't. We are blessed living in Montana even with all it's negatives.

 

[Carrion Carrier]

No doubt, there are big fish in the big waters around you. There are also big fish in the small (jin some cases tiny) waters as well. Explore!

 

[MTGunner]

Pagosa, I live just NE of Ronan. It's a great place to live. Congratulations on your move. You will love living here. MTG

 

[bowhuntmontana]

“I’m in love with Montana. For other states I have admiration, respect, recognition, even some affection. But with Montana it is love. And it’s difficult to analyze love when you’re in it.” John Steinbeck

Pretty much how I feel about being here too. Welcome.

 

[mtmuley]

I was born and raised here but I left this state in my youth and was gone for a bit. I'm never leaving again. I already have a place picked out for my dust to be scattered. mtmuley

 

[theat]

Welcome to Big Sky Country. There is some great fishing near your new home, be it bass, perch, and northerns to many trout species. You can also find some great waterfowl and pheasant hunting on the reservation.

 

[belly-deep]

Mission Valley is one of the most beautiful places in the state. You picked a good spot

 

[Pagosa]

Guys thanks for the encouraging words. My family is busting with excitement. The WPA looks like great bird hunting, and both the main Flathead and Jocko look like good fisheries. For whatever reason I will usually end up driving a couple hours to biggame hunt anyhow. From what limited hunting I've did in NW Montana I should be within 1 hour of good bear and deer hunting. I have received a warm welcome from Montanan's. I have lots of work ahead to even get a road built, electric in, and a small bunkhouse to live in. Thanks again. Preston Nelson