THE FREEDOM TO FISH AND HUNT

Today is Independence Day. We have many "Freedoms" in our beautiful country. Many of those freedoms folks take for granted. One I think, that many don't think about is our ability to hunt and fish. We are able to hunt and fish in most places in this country on Public lands and on Private lands(If we ask for permission or pay a fee). All we have to do is pay for a license and follow the regulations, it is very easy to do.
A few days ago i visited with a gentleman from the U.K. He was here to fish the many rivers that Montana is blessed to have. He asked why in the U.S. we have to buy a fishing license for every state you fish in. I told him that we have a Federal Government made up of Sovereign States. That may be a simple answer, I'm not an expert on government. We got into a conversation on fishing and fishing access. In Europe you are not allowed to just walk up to a stream and start fishing. There are many more regulations to follow, some countries even have tests you must take before you can get a permit. Most land is private and you must join a club or have permission from the land owner. You have to be rich to fish most of the private or club waters. Most people that fish the fabled waters of England are very well heeled. In the USA we have abundance of public lands. We have more miles of public waters and more public lakes than most countries in the world. We should stop and think right now about what that means to us, and the people that will inherit that resource.
When you go on public land to fish do the following:
1. Follow all fish and game regulations
2. Don't litter. Pack out what you pack-in.
3. Treat other anglers with respect and give them their "space".
4. Treat all wildlife with respect and don't abuse or intimidate them. Release most of your catch. If you must take some fish home, promptly dispatch the fish and prepare them for cooking.
5. Share outdoor ethics with the youngsters, show them the proper way to enjoy the outdoors.
6. Don't cross onto private land without asking.

When you fish or hunt on private land do the following:
1. Ask for permission from the landowner.
2. Close all gates after opening them.
3. Don't litter
4. Leave livestock and property alone.
5. Follow all Fish and Game regulations if they apply.
6. Always stop and thank the landowner after the day is over, they are usually very interested in your results.

Teach your children outdoor ethics. This is important, because you will be showing them respect for our great outdoor treasures. Fishing and hunting in the USA is not a "Right" it is a "Privilege". Don't take it for granted.
Happy 4th of July!