Cat-griz: A Brawl of the Wild(erness)

The first annual Brawl of the Wild on Ice took place Saturday, Feb. 25 at Canyon Ferry, a reservoir of the Missouri River adjacent to Helena. The Backcountry Hunters and Anglers of Montana State (BHA) faced off against the University of Montana’s BHA student chapter in various ice fishing events including ice hole drilling races, tip-up sprints and best-cooked fresh fish. The competition also included categories for biggest fish, most fish and most species. The Cats brought home the win and an oversized lure as a trophy with some fresh-caught trout, walleye and burbot. While there were several competitions, MSU’s BHA president Tyler Perry described the main aim of the trip: “we’re here just to have a fun time out on the ice.” The BHA club plans to make this an annual event with UM for years to come.

The BHA of MSU is a collegiate chapter of the nationwide non-profit with a mission of preserving the heritage of hunting and fishing in North America. Whether you are a seasoned outdoorsman or someone looking to try things out for the first time, Perry said the BHA is a valuable resource. “We’re here to provide access for students getting into hunting and fishing and are in need of a group of people to do it with,” he said. 

Perry also mentioned it’s a great way for people to test out something new without having to buy all the gear yourself. “We provide a community of people who are willing to help out and show you the ropes,” Perry said. At the event Saturday, BHA was able to acquire a group fishing permit for everyone who attended. This meant newcomers who didn’t have a fishing license already were able to participate without having to buy one. This can save a lot of money for out-of-state students who want to ice fish, as a non-resident two-day fishing license is $42.50.

The BHA doesn’t have any upcoming events set in stone but is planning to have an end-of-the-semester-field-to-table-cookout. Perry mentioned the best way to get involved with the club is to attend one of its events or meetings. The latest updates for Backcountry Hunters and Anglers on the organization’s Instagram @bhaofmsu, as well as their page on Cats Connect. If you are looking to get into ice fishing, Hyalite Reservoir is close by. Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks updated fishing regulations and has great information on what gear you need to buy, as well as information on ice reports. A link to its ice fishing page can be found here:  https://fwp.mt.gov/fish/ice-fishing.