IDWSF Summer Journal 2018

Summer 2018

the biannual journal for the Idaho sheep hunter

The truth about hunting
THE OPINION: MONTANA BIGHORN DIEOFFS
Where there’s smoke there’s sheep

IT’S ALL IN THE
‘CHAPTER’ FAMILY

the aoudad ladies
A YEAR IN THE LIFE OF A RAM
IDWSF CONSERVATION REPORT

2 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUMMER 2018

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THIISSSUE

FEATURES

14 THE TRUTH ABOUT HUNTING

19 THE OPINION

Study looks at why Montana’s bighorn sheep are still plagued by dieoffs

22 IT’S ALL IN THE ‘CHAPTER’ FAMILY
Idaho Resident wins Washington Sheep Lottery

30 THE AOUDAD LADIES
37 A YEAR IN THE LIFE OF A RAM

42 WHERE THERE’S SMOKE THERE’S SHEEP

inside IDwsf

11 2018 BANQUET RECAP

12 PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS
28 2018 IDAHO BIGHORN SHEEP LOTTERY ENTRY FORM
35 CENTENNIAL MEMBERSHIP
48 IDWSF CONSERVATION REPORT
50 IDWSF ACTIVITIES

4 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUMMER 2018

EDITOR’S LETTER

SUMMER 2018 With this Spring Edition of the IDWSF newsletter we have
officially made it a year since beginning this journal! How
publisher/managing editor exciting it is to receive so many interesting stories to share
Zach Higgins with our membership! We are also pleased to include information
about our many sponsoring companies who were so generous in
creative director/editor in chief donating to our most successful banquet to date! As you read through
Lindsey Cleghorn the wonderful articles enclosed, please take the time to recognize the
companies who are supporting conservation of Idaho’s wild sheep
sales & marketing director by donating products and money to our organization. If you’re in the
Zach Higgins/Jim Warner market for goods or services we would encourage you to reach out to
the companies advertised.
circulation director In this edition we explore a young hunter’s perspective on how we
Teri Otten grow up hunting and what it means for future conservation and
lifestyle. We’ve included an excellent article originally published in
contributing writers the Billing’s Gazette authored by our national WSF president, Gray
McKenna Whiting, Greg Thornton, Wes Thornton, about the recent bighorn die-offs in Montana. In Wes
Curry, Lindsey Cleghorn, Bruce Mincher, Curry’s story, remember that we all work together as chapter affiliates
Josh Miller and that true conservation knows no boundaries or state lines.
Rediscover the great state of Texas while you travel with me on my
Idaho WSF Board Members first Aoudad hunt! In an enlightening article by Board Member Bruce
Zach Higgins/President Mincher, we follow the ram’s course of life through winter and mating
Jim Warner/Vice President season. Finally, we close with an Idahome Rocky Mountain Bighorn
James Jeffress/Past President hunt in the Owyhees. Please be sure to read through our organization’s
Ashlie DeBolt/Treasurer conservation report and activities the IDWSF is currently pursuing.
We are already accepting submissions for our Fall/Winter journal.
Steve Alderman/Director We always look for amazing stories written for the Idaho sheep
Lindsey Cleghorn/Director hunter, but we would be thrilled to include any elk, bear, or other
Bill London/ Director hunts experienced in the Idaho wilderness. If you purchased a hunt
Bruce J. Mincher/ Director through our banquet we would love to hear about your experience and
Bradley J. Morlock/ Director time spent with the amazing outfitters who donated their time and
Jason Pyron/ Director resources to help you accomplish your hunting goals!
Michael Schlegel/ Director If you’d like to advertise within this journal, please contact me for
Jake Shea/ Director advertising rates and options! Until next time,
Edd Woslum/ Director
Preston Funkhouser/Director Lindsey Cleghorn
Don Colter/Director
creative director/editor in chief
for advertising opportunities, please contact Idaho WSF Board of Directors
Lindsey Cleghorn at [email protected].

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2018 banquet recap

The 33rd Annual IDWSF Banquet held on March 17th, 2018 at the Boise Centre on the Grove was a
record setting night for our chapter. With a sold-out crowd of 489 attendees the IDWSF broke every
previous record in all facets of the event. The results of the evening were a culmination of hundreds of
volunteer hours from the Banquet Committee, and our gracious sponsors, donors, and staff working diligently
for months prior to the event in order to offer our guests a night that they can remember.
In a sportsman’s paradise such as Idaho it is a very competitive market to become the leading conservation
chapter in our state and we face stiff competition from DU, RMEF, SCI, MDF, NWTF, and many others. This
is a great problem to have as we have many dedicated sportsmen willing to contribute to our state’s current and
future wildlife, but this also leads us all fighting for the same sportsman’s dollars in order to put our conservation
efforts into place.
As a chapter, we recognized this several years ago and knew that in order to ensure that, if faced with a
scheduling conflict from another conservation group, people would want to be drawn to IDWSF over the other
due to the quality of our event. This years Guest Speaker Kirstie Eniss stole the show with a tear jerking speech
about her time in the USMC and how she has had to overcome an above the knee amputation as a result of her
helicopter being shot down in combat operations in Afghanistan. She remined us why we are so fortunate to live
in the best country in the world and that if you put your mind into what you want to achieve anything can be
possible. A guest, and fellow veteran, was so moved by her sacrifices that he donated $10,000 to the organization
Wounded Warriors Outdoors which Kirstie is an ambassador for, and credits for helping save her life as she was
contemplating taking her life. As a result of the anonymous donor, we held a fund-raising call at the end of the
event and raised a total of $15,500 for WWO to help get our veterans back on their feet and find fulfillment in
hunting.
In addition to locking in a dynamic and motivational speaker we took a calculated risk in offering a Stone Sheep
Hunt for one lucky Life Member in the room. When we approached Tuchodi River Outfitters about helping
sponsor a portion of the hunt they didn’t think twice and offered a significant discount and due to the help of
several gracious donors we were able to fully underwrite the hunt which netted our chapter more money to be put
toward grants and sheep conservation programs. The lucky winner was Shane Zeinor and he will now be going
on his first sheep hunt as a result of IDWSF and we wish him all of the luck in the world on his adventure!
On the next page’s graphics you can see that our attendance has been exponential and we saw a 115% growth
from our previous years record. More importantly our Net Income grew by close to 200% from our prior record
year and equaled as much as our previous 2.5 years combined. Bottom line, we are starting to gain the financial
coffers to be able to make a difference for Idaho’s Wild Sheep and every dollar spent will make a difference! We
will be implementing a grant/aide application process for our chapter to ensure that the funds raised are diligently
spent on Idaho’s Bighorn Sheep.
2018 has set the bar for the new standard of our event and the BOD cant thank everyone who attended, donated,
and sponsored our event enough for the impact that you have made for Idaho’s Wild Sheep. So many positive
things from the event happened that it is impossible for us to even capture it all in this write up, but one thing is
for certain, this year is something every member of IDWSF can be proud of!

ZACH HIGGINS

Idaho WSF President

11

$45,000.00 MEMBERSHIP FUNDS $42,255.00
$40,000.00
Banquet Attendance 489 $35,000.00
$30,000.00
440 $25,000.00 $22,750.00
360 362 $20,000.00
$15,000.00
$10,000.00 $22,270.00

230 230 $5,000.00 $18,470.00
$-
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 $2,130.00 $1,845.00

2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

2018 BANQUET $160,000.00 BANQUET NET PROFITS
NUMBERS $140,000.00
$120,000.00 $150,001.00
►► IDWSF saw a 115% growth from $100,000.00
our previous years attendance $68,880.00
record. $80,000.00 $51,012.00 $55,188.00
$60,000.00
►► IDWSF Net Income grew by close $40,000.00 $30,330.00
to 200% from our prior record year $20,000.00 $20,690.00
and equaled as much as our previous
2.5 years combined. $-

2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

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president’s address

As summer quickly approaches we have much to be thankful for thus far. We are coming off the euphoria
of our largest, and most profitable, banquet in our 33-year chapter history which will enable our chapter
to bring more financial resources into the fight against population decline throughout the state. In addi-
tion, a lucky few of you may have a sheep tag in your pocket for this fall and will have much to look forward to
scouting in the high country chasing these incredible animals. For those of us that don’t, we are envious and can’t
wait to hear of your experience!
Our chapter is working with IDFG to develop some boots on the ground conservation projects which our
chapter can spear head in conjunction with IDFG so be sure to follow us on Facebook and check your emails
as we will be reaching out for volunteers as the time approaches. One project in particular we know is going to
be coming again will be a continuation of the Summer Research Study in the Owyhee’s and Middle Fork of the
Salmon River Country. Our Fall issue featured a story from Nicole Bilodeau, lead researcher, and the successes of
the study and the IDWSF volunteers. As we get Nicole’s schedule and needs we will be sure to inform everyone
and you won’t want to miss out on it!
On the legislative front our conservation committee has been diligently working with IDFG, US Forest Service,
Wild Sheep Foundation, and other conservation organizations to ensure Bighorn Sheep are at the forefront of
our legislator’s priorities. Much of this work is slow and tedious as it takes a poignant and concerted effort from
many organizations with different views trying to come together, but this past fall through this spring we have
seen many successful steps forward within the state as well as at the national level. Read more in our conservation
report enclosed.
In closing, I want to thank all of our sponsors that helped make our 33rd annual banquet a major success. We
couldn’t have done it without you. For all of our new members we welcome you and thank you for joining in this
valiant effort we have all taken on. We encourage you to get involved with the chapter and take part in the volun-
teer opportunities when they come available, I can ensure you there is nothing more gratifying than knowing your
apart of something that is making a difference for future generations! Have a safe and enjoyable summer and best
of luck in the hills this fall.
Thank you,

ZACH HIGGINS

Idaho WSF President

13

THE TRUTH ABOUT

M by McKenna Whiting
y dad pressed his trembling hand on my right my dad and I had just accomplished when my sadly ignorant
shoulder and covered his mouth with the other, and uneducated family member approached me. She asked how
muffling his whisper which repeated, “Squeeze the I could’ve possibly killed an innocent animal and how I could
trigger, squeeze the trigger.” I turned around slowly and looked possibly pose with it smiling. My heart must have seemed black
at him and said, “Dad, you’re shaking me.” With this he released and cold through her eyes. As an animal lover myself, I could
his grip and I placed my crosshairs right behind the deers understand where she was coming from but a fiery passion to
shoulder where I had been told in the days prior and as my dad backup myself and my lineage raged through my body.
instructed, I squeezed the trigger. My dad stood up and pushed Knowing she was not a vegetarian or a vegan, for she was
a fist of victory into the air as the buck ran about 20 yards and aggressively chewing on some smokies, I asked her where she
then fell to the ground, twitching. A buzzing rang through my preferred her choice of meat. She told me she got beef from
ears while my dad cheered for I had just killed my first animal. her local grocery stores and I wondered if she understood that
However, as a 10-year-old girl, my heart felt strange with mixed beef had been derived from a dead animal.
emotions; excitement and pure guilt.
Every morning on my way to school, I would pass what looked
Seven years later as the daughter of the CEO of a hunting to be maybe a four acre lot, full of black, Angus cows who were
and tactical apparel line, I experience the celebration of the stacked almost on top of each other standing in what one could
sacrifice of game every day and myself, have willingly taken be described as 6 inches of mud but was probably mixed with
the lives of 15 animals. This has morphed me into the person much more. As I approached this property I could smell its foul
I am today. Animals have not only provided me with nutrition, stench from half a mile away and on a really good day, a mile
but they have provided me with my whole lifestyle. With this away. These cows didn’t live the life I thought was humane and I
ascribed role in my possession, a weight has been placed on my explained to her that beef, the “magical meat that just appeared
shoulders surrounded by the hunting industry. I meet influential at the grocery store,” went through much more harm. My elk
people with every step my father takes but along comes the lived in the mountains and feasted off food it got to choose,
people that question my life purpose and existence in this world. not hand selected, growth stimulating, dog food resembling
I’ve witnessed many anti-hunters in my lifetime but never have food but crisp green leaves off willows and sweet grasses
I dealt with one on my own account until Christmas Eve of surrounding its bed. My elk’s muscles lived a good healthy life
2013 and to my dismay, she was one of my distant relatives. I and carried him over hills and plains, not through a foot of
had been showing the family pictures of the successful elk hunt feces. And most importantly my elk lived a long, enjoyable life

14 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUMMER 2018

T HUNTING money because that’s what matters in this day and age. But for
and died a quick and painless death, compared to a short and you the effects can be less then great. After a long exposure to
pointless life followed by a hopeful death. estrogen through the consumption of grown beef, your risk of
By now, everyone in the room had their necks kinked towards cancer can gradually increase. For me, that’s a risk I’d rather not
us. The hunters in the room had a sly, subtle grin on their faces take.
and my dad proudly took a back seat on the show. I then asked Her profuse disgust towards me didn’t seem to budge so I
her if she knew what was in her meat and by the confusing look felt the need to go deeper into my ocean of explanation and
expressed on her face I assumed she didn’t understand that her because she was a religious lady I decided to bring the word to
meat, could be more than just meat. these terms. I looked at her and asked her if she understood
When preparing for a hunt the knives were the second most the purpose of the creatures that ruled this earth before us and
important thing besides a gun and the ammunition you put in she said they were to enjoy. She wasn’t wrong for I enjoy seeing
it. They were used for quartering out the animal that gave us a heard of elk slowly glide over the hills during their migration.
its life, which is the dressing method my family preferred. It I enjoy hearing the birds sing in the early summer mornings. I
was than hauled, like mules, on our backs from the location it enjoy petting my pets no matter the occasion but sometimes I
was taken to our truck where we took it home, cleaned it, and really enjoy a big juicy moose burger with caramelized onions
planned out the meals it would be made into. and a lightly toasted bun holding it all together. Although many
From the time the animal is harvested to the time a juicy steak animals on this planet are pure luxury, God gave them to us to
is placed on my plate, I know what my meal contains which is survive and without animals the evolution of humans would
nothing but meat. But what else could someone’s food possibly progress towards the evolution of dust. Anti-hunters sometimes
contain is the question many of the anti-hunters I know don’t look at this to be the exact opposite; with the evolution of
understand. Lots of food found at the grocery stores I shop humans and their hunting practices, animals will evolve to dust,
at contain meat that was tampered with using chemicals and but little do they know about conservation, and a family culture
most of all, hormones. The most common hormones found of providing for itself.
used in cow livestock is estrogens and testosterones which are As my argument began to soften her outlook on my life and
injected into a pellet, placed in a young calf ’s ear which stays the lives of the people surrounding her, a gate of curiosity was
there throughout its fast-paced life, slowly releasing chemicals opened and I thought I would inform her on this fragile topic
(Hoffman, MD). Hormones like these stimulate the growth of conservation.
of the cow which for the owner, means more meat for more In 2009, at the ranch in Texas where I harvested my first white

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tail deer, hunting was held off for the owners who were also strength and courage and it’s not all about the size, shape and
close friends and business partners with my dad, found that color of the animal, it’s about the experience and the memories
maybe a break from all the access granting on their 26,000 acres that came with it, and ultimately providing clean organic protein
would be beneficial. For the species on this ranch protected by for family and loved ones .
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before humans for the spring was green, and healthy breeding to reflect on my past and the lessons I had learned through my
produced many Bambi resembling white tail and axis babies journey of being a huntress. I had taken this animal because it
running around. Although the land seemed to be a place of was humane. I had taken this animal to help feed the needy and
safety, it held in a darkness that no one saw. Chronic wasting nourish their bodies. And I had taken this animal because it was
disease which devoured the population and killed almost God’s beautiful creation and I wanted everyone to enjoy it in the
all the species of deer on their property. In the eyes of the future and this is what people need to know. I hunt because it is
hunters, this catastrophic plague could’ve been stopped. As a a part of my family culture, and our God given right to provide
ten year old girl my heart hurt at the thought of having to burn for ourselves and those around us. I love the animals that I
thousands of deer carcasses in order to stop the spread of the hunt and will be active and do everything I can to ensure that
death throughout their safe haven. This is what ignited a fire in someday I can share the same experiences with my children. ▪
my soul to protect the animals that I shared this earth with and
to preserve them for the generations to come.
Although I have these strong beliefs that are carved into my
skin I came to question myself and my intentions just as the
anti-hunters did when I visited South Africa for a hunting
safari. The worst thing that can happen when your harvesting
an animal is making the animal suffer and it was a nightmare
I had never wished to dream. After aiming at the large and
magnificent Kudu standing in front of me I made an error and
the bullet wasn’t deadly enough. I had to mercifully approach
it and finish the job as I mistakenly looked in its wide and
frightened eyes. Tears ran down my face and I didn’t feel one
drop of pride but I had to be strong and clean myself up for a
camera was in my face a few seconds later. I didn’t want to talk
about the hunt and I didn’t want to lie about it being all daises
and roses because the truth is, hunting is for the brave. It take

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OThe PINION
originally published in the

BILLINGS GAZETTE
by Greg Thornton

Brett French’s recent article “Study new strain type via subsequent contact private land, managers kill the wild sheep.
looks at why Montana’s bighorn with domestic sheep or goats can trigger Connectivity between bighorn
sheep are still plagued by dieoffs” a deadly response and result in all-age die populations is a double-edged sword,
helps bring public awareness to the offs and little to no annual lamb survival with genetic exchange on the positive side
domestic sheep to wild sheep disease in wild sheep. This is consistent with Dr. of the ledger, weighed against pathogen
issue, which remains the number one Garrott’s remarks on flu – ability to transfer and subsequent disease outbreaks
factor limiting bighorn sheep restoration cope with one strain does not mean one on the negative side. Potential contact
west-wide. However, some statements in can cope with another. with domestic sheep and goats on private
the article, and in particular a follow-on A primary pathogen of concern carried and/or public lands is one fundamental
piece, titled “Bighorn sheep transplants by domestic sheep and goats and reason wild sheep professionals now
may be spreading pathogens” posted transferred by contact to wild sheep is manage for and deal with small,
on montanaoutdoor.com, incorrectly Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae or M.ovi. fragmented populations, as opposed to
minimizes the scientific fact that these M.ovi to wild sheep is HIV-like to large, connected wild sheep populations.
pathogens are not native to wild sheep. humans; while it may not be deadly alone, In addition to minimizing risk of
Like Small Pox to which Native it is the set-up agent that compromises contact, both woolgrowers and wild
American’s immune systems were the bighorn’s (or person’s) ability to fight sheep conservation advocates should be
completely naïve, bighorns have off other pathogens or “bugs” that are working to fund and find solutions to
contracted these pathogens due to deadly. prevent disease transfer from domestic
contact at some time with domestic sheep The montanaoutdoors.com title claiming sheep and goats to wild sheep. To date,
or goats or an infected bighorn that that translocating infected wild sheep most of the funding burden for research
was previously infected by contact with is a reason for low wild sheep numbers and knowledge has come from wild
domestic sheep or goats. distracts from the fact that contact sheep interests, not Ag - including Dr.
While decades ago some bighorns between wild sheep and domestic sheep Bob Garrott’s current bighorn research,
may have been translocated without (and/or goats) was the initial cause of the which is funded in large part by the
pre-movement disease testing, today’s pathogen transfer. Montana bighorn sheep tag sold annually
standard wildlife agency protocols include Further, promoting a message of by the Wild Sheep Foundation (WSF),
checking both source and recipient “Don’t blame Ag” misses the mark that plus direct grants from Montana WSF
herds for important pathogens. domestic sheep and goats do pose a and WSF. Since 1986, WSF has directed
Contemporary research and widely- threat to bighorn sheep. Professional $6,630,000 to bighorn sheep restoration
accepted science shows that non-endemic wildlife managers, biologists, and wildlife programs and research in our great state
pathogens deadly to wild sheep were veterinarians throughout the Western through the auction of this
contracted first from contact with Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies one tag annually. Plus, WSF has directed
domestic sheep or goats. agree that this risk and threat is so real millions of dollars to disease research. By
Research has shown that there are that the standing protocol for many contrast, funding from domestic sheep
multiple strains of these pathogens. western fish and game agencies is that interests has instead been directed to
While some may or may not prove deadly when a wild sheep comes in contact with attempt to refute published science or
to wild sheep today, introduction of a domestic sheep or goats on public or lobby against bighorn restoration. It is
high time that domestic sheep interests

20 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUMMER 2018



join wild sheep interests to fund solutions JOELPILCHERART.COM
that benefit both wild and domestic [email protected]
sheep.
Until a proven method to remove @JOELPILCH
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23

it’s all in the
‘chapter’ family

idaho resident wins washington SHEEP lottery

by Wes Curry

WSF believes that conservation of wild sheep and preservation of our outdoor heritage depends on close cooperation of our partners—
our WSF Joint Membership Chapters & Affiliates. Our impact on the future of wild sheep began locally decades ago and continues
today with grassroots groups of likeminded individuals and organizations who understand the issues and have the courage to act. Idaho
WSF is happy to have a close partnership with our fellow chapter affilitate in Washington. It is through these close partnerships that we

are able to better promote sheep health and conservation on a regional and national level.

Iwas living in Washington when I was first introduced to Shortly after that I suggested to my grandson that he should
hunting by a close friend in 1980. That season after a attend and begin supporting conservation with hopes that he
successful deer hunt we were hunting for elk. It was during still being fairly young, might get a chance to a sheep hunt in
that elk hunt that I saw some of my first bighorn sheep. We his lifetime. I mentioned to him that he should start applying
were both fascinated by these majestic creatures. I was told for tags and taking every step possible to get a chance to hunt
that to have an opportunity to hunt these sheep was nearly out sheep. I began to put his name in with mine when I applied in
of the question. The small amount of research I did at that various states. We bought several raffle tickets before seeing
time seemed to verify that fact. Unfortunately, I dismissed my Matt Hansen’s story about winning the Idaho Bighorn Sheep
desire to pursue sheep at that point and took advantage of Lottery. I had been missing one of the better opportunities to
every chance to hunt deer and elk, even taking up archery for a obtain a tag! I told my grandson, “We have to start entering
time. I later moved across the river to Lewiston, Idaho in part these raffles as soon as possible.” It was a few months later,
because of what looked like longer hunting seasons. but just before the deadline when we sat down, printed forms
and sent in orders for tickets to the Washington Bighorn Sheep
Years passed and I hunted less, but continued to target shoot Raffle.
with firearm. Years later while working on a rifle upgrade Just over a month later my phone rang while I was at work one
with another friend, he suggested that I go on a hunt with morning in July. I missed the call but noticed an email from
him since I was so into the shooting sports. I took his advice, the Washington Wild Sheep Foundation. I opened it and read,
applied for an antelope tag in Montana and was drawn for “Please give Andy a call as soon as possible.” I was confused,
one. The successful hunt may not have even been necessary but at the same time I knew this could only mean a couple of
as my passion for hunting was rekindled as soon as we were things. I called Andy and no, I was not an alternate…I had won
afield. the Rocky Mountain Bighorn sheep tag for 2017! I could hardly
At fifty years of age I still longed for a chance to hunt wild speak when I made the call, it had been 37 years since I first
sheep. With the advent of outdoor television I soon heard saw those sheep and now I was going to have a chance to hunt
of the Wild Sheep Foundation and joined Nationals after them right in the same area. I actually felt bad, I wasn’t even
some consideration. I then learned of the different chapter a member! I joined the Washington chapter a few days later.
affiliates and while working near Boise one spring attended the
annual Idaho WSF banquet and became a member. I was very In less than two days I knew that I was not going to take the
impressed and motivated by the guest speaker and members chance on a do it yourself hunt. I booked my hunt with Craig
that I had a chance to talk to. The following year my wife Martin of Tucannon Outfitters. Craig told me that patience
attended with me and she felt the same way about the work we would be the key to this hunt and the waiting began for me. We
were hearing about sustaining wild sheep populations. would be waiting for the November rut before we would hunt,
but Craig would be out scouting ahead of time. The waiting

24 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUMMER 2018

“Years of thinking that
this type of opportunity
may never come
ARE OVER.”

25

was made worse as everyone I knew asked almost daily if I had Looking the opposite direction of where we thought the sheep
heard when I was going hunting yet. were we spotted two rams heading away from us. Just at that
I met with Craig and he showed me some of the rams that time the “Light Horn” ram (based only on the color of his
were in the area. One ram really stood out, but he had left horns) turned and headed back our way. Apparently the two
the area and we were hoping he would show back up so rams had started fighting and one chased the other about two
we watched and waited some more. As suggested, I picked draws away before deciding to return to the ewes.
up some archery gear for the first time in years and began
practicing. The new equipment is amazing and at known We were sort of pinned down with the ram coming right for
distances good shots on targets became routine to my us. Earl said “That trail he’s on comes out right by that pine
surprise. tree there so get ready.” We were focused on the tree for a few
Finally, on November 27 Craig said, “The rams are on the minutes when I saw movement to the right, “Earl, he’s right
move and you need to get down here. The rams were in a bad there!” I whispered. We were still seated on the rim rock as the
spot for a few days but now they are in a good spot.” I left ram took a few steps to the right again. As he passed behind
work within minutes, said goodbye to my wife and headed out. some brush I drew the bow. The ram didn’t stop when he
I met Craig and Earl Landrus glassing sheep in the hunting cleared the brush so I had to follow him further to the right.
area. I had gone to high school with Earl and it was great to When he stopped I released the arrow which barely cleared
get re-acquainted with him. With just enough time to make a the bow before smashing into a rock that was not in my sight
play on some sheep in another group further up the mountain picture but was in the path of the arrow. That ram ran around
we grabbed some gear and started climbing. As we reached the the end of the ridge we were on and headed up the hill. To my
elevation where the sheep had been we stopped for a breather. surprise he came back into view on the rim just above us and
looked over it at us. I loosed another arrow missing just left. I
was elated just to experience such a turn of events, but crushed
that I had blown my chance.

26 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUPRMINMGER20210818

The next day the “Light Horn” was not spotted, but we found The trip down off of that side of the canyon was made in what
“Chocolate Horn” still where he had been chased to the day had to be record time. The ram had some ewes with him now
before with some other ewes. We climbed above these sheep and appeared to be bedding down. We committed to crossing
and worked our way back down on them to find them sleeping and going after him with the rifle. I have worked structural steel
just below a ledge. It seemed like hours that we were hunkered for years, back prior to regulations requiring fall protection and
down just a few yards above this band of sheep waiting for am comfortable climbing and erecting towers and buildings.
them to get up and move. Craig whispered to me, “They are This climb however was a real test. The sheep were in a
getting nervous, when I tell you to, stand up behind this rock, position that gave them a commanding view of all but the
draw your bow, and then step to the right for your shot. Be back side of the steep rock ledges that were below them. Each
careful of this ledge!” “Okay, Wes there up, draw your bow… time we tried to avoid a rock climb we found that we would
now move to your right and shoot him. Watch that ledge.” be spotted. So time after time we climbed our way around and
Well, I didn’t step far enough and could only see a small ram over the ledges until we were just one rim below them.
and two ewes. “One more step Wes, but be careful”. There
he was alright; I tried not to look at his horns. I thought, he’s Our ram laid right on the outside edge of the rim above us a
downhill a bit, aim low. I aimed low and shot low, clean miss… mere 144 yards away. He was broadside laying there looking
again! The sheep took off and stopped as they started up out right at us. The wide flare of his horns was incredible to view
of the draw. That’s sixty yards I thought, low again. It turns out as we waited for him to stand. When he stood up he turned
that it was seventy-two yards. straight away from us. As the ram increased the distance
On the third morning Chocolate had moved quite a distance between us and crossed to our right I had no success getting
and was not in a good spot. We couldn’t turn up Light Horn the rifle set and leveled on the rocks where we were stationed.
so we made a move on Chocolate. A very steep climb put us I grabbed various pieces of my gear trying to get the bi-pod
above the ram again, but while peering over ledges trying to leveled out. The only times I could get a sight picture with the
relocate him we were busted without a shot opportunity. We proper elevation the rifle was not tight on my shoulder. Yep,
continued climbing looking for other sheep. As we traversed that’s right I tried the shot anyway. A clean miss and a world
some rock ledges with wet clay chutes in them I was a little class scope kiss. I’m still debating if I will ever share the video
nervous about the footing. I wondered how in the world we footage. The miss was verified before we headed down the
would make it back down this stuff. mountain, again with no ram.
Reaching the top of the ridges we were able to see the Light I never thought I’d see that ram again after shooting at him.
Horn ram across the canyon. What a magnificent sight! No I also thought that Craig might be so frustrated by now that
chance of closing to bow range at this point though so we we might not pursue him even if he did turn up. My mistake
headed back down. The following day Chocolate was spotted thinking that, Craig turned him up the next morning and of
moving from one canyon to another in no particular hurry. course worked out a plan to get on him again. This time we
A high speed hike put us in a position on a saddle that we were on more level ground, but it was open country. As we
believed he would cross over. Indeed, after a short time we tried to close the distance on the sheep, another ram came
were exactly where we wanted to be and watched as Chocolate out of the group and pinned us down for quite a while. Once
passed us at 128 yards. When the ram went behind a small that ram was over the ridge the other sheep emerged from the
knob we deployed the decoy. The ram noticed it sure enough, rocks below us. With us still pinned down, the sheep moved
but did not come to investigate. It was good for a laugh and it around below us for a while before moving back down into the
almost worked! rocks. We looked over the edge and couldn’t spot them. As we
We followed him as he was on a collision course again with discussed where they might be headed the group reappeared
Light Horn. The sheep were in the next canyon but without right in front of us.
Chocolate. It appeared that we would not be able to get any I was very aware of the close proximity of the scope to my
closer than about three hundred yards from the sheep in their new sutures as I set up for the shot this time. Maybe that’s why
current location. As we watched them we heard a loud crack it was yet another miss. Unbelievable! I know that I can do this,
from across the canyon to the south. Moments later Craig calm down! I told myself. “Watch those ewes, shoot him Wes”,
spotted a ram walking out of the timber and down the distant Craig said. This time after I squeezed the trigger I heard the
ridge. He studied the ram and then said, “If that’s the ram I bullet hit its mark. The ram took about one and a half steps
think it is we have to move on him. He’s the kind of ram that before going down.
you take with a rifle, he’s that good!” From what I could see I What an honor it was to hunt sheep with Craig and Earl! Such
knew what he was talking about. a blessing to be able to harvest one of these rams on top of

27

that! I was humbled by so many of the challenges that this hunt
presented me with. My performance was less than stellar to say
the least and if given the opportunity in the future, I’ll be much
better prepared.

Years of thinking that this type of opportunity may never
come are over. I’m now committed and proud to support the
diligent efforts of the Wild Sheep Foundation and its chapter
affiliates in Washington and Idaho to ‘put and keep wild sheep
on the mountain.’
A huge thank you to Craig Martin of Tucannon Outfitters who
guided me on my Rocky Mountain Bighorn hunt! Craig put me
on sheep each day that we hunted. I was also privileged to be
guided by Earl Landrus on a couple of stalks to begin the hunt.
I would also like to thank the Washington Wild Sheep
Foundation for this opportunity provided throught the
Washington 2017 Bighorn Raffle. ▪

28 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUPRMINMGER20210818

2018

IDAHO BIGHORN SHEEP LOTTERY

2016 Bighorn GUIDELINES
lottery winner
Matt Hansen ► The 2018 Lottery Tag shall be valid
for use in any open controlled bighorn
Unit 11 hunt, including Unit 11.

2017 Bighorn ► Applicants must be eligible to
lottery winner purchase a hunting license in Idaho in
John Taylor order to obtain these special tickets.

Unit 37 ► Applicants must be at least 18 years
old to purchase.

► Void where prohibited.

► This tag is non-transferrable. No
purchase necessary. Hunting license
and tag will be provided to winner.

► Drawing will be conducted on Wed.
July 25th at 2pm.

► Once-in-a-lifetime rule is waived for
this raffle tag

► Need not be present to win

► Additional rules may apply

Idaho Wild Sheep Foundation is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization. Funds from the Idaho Bighorn Sheep Lottery are used for the benefit and
enhancement of bighorn sheep in Idaho. This form is also available on the IDWSF website, www.idahowildsheep.org.

RECEIPT IDAHO 2018 BIGHORN SHEEP TICKET ORDER FORM
Tickets are not sent to buyer.
Keep this stub for your No limit to number of tickets purchased per individual. Tickets are non-transferrable. One
records. individual per order form. This form may be copied. No telephone orders. No website orders.

Date: ___________________ 1 ticket $20 each # tickets ______ = $ ______ total
6 tickets for $100 # tickets ______ = $ ______ total
Amount: ________________ 14 tickets for $166.75 # tickets ______ = $ ______ total
25 tickets for $250 # tickets ______ = $ ______ total
Payment method: ________
Payment can be made by check or credit card. Mail form and payment to: Idaho
No. of tickets: ___________ WSF, PO Box 8224, Boise, ID 83707. Credit card orders can be faxed to
208-321-4819 or mailed.
Drawing to be held on
Wednesday, July 25th at 2pm. Credit Card (Visa, MC, AMEX accepted)______________________________________
Exp. ______________
Winner will be notified
by phone. Check # _____________

Signature ___________________________________

Idaho Wild Sheep Foundation Please Print Clearly (all required)
PO Box 8224
Name __________________________________________________________
Boise, ID 83707 Address_________________________________________________________
208-345-6171 City/State/Zip ____________________________________________________
Telephone (including area code) _____________________________________
www.idahowildsheep.org Email __________________________________________________________

TICKET ORDERS MUST BE RECEIVED BY MONDAY JULY 23, 2018

CLEGHORN STORY

30 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUPRMINMGER20210818

THE

AOUDAD LADIES
by Lindsey Cleghorn

What are the differences between men and women hunters? As that airs on the Sportsman’s Channel. She invited myself and
the videographer for Prime Revolution, my friend Josiah Ness two other women, Nikki Whiting of Kryptek, and friend
has a lot of experience interviewing hunters post hunt and Brittany Cobb to join her in Texas hunting aoudad with
the main difference he discovered was that men were all about our friend and guide Nevada Grassie. Nikki and I traveled
the tactics, the ballistics — the how it happened. As the first together from Boise with Josiah Ness, videographer for Prime
all-ladies hunting group he had filmed, the contrast between Revolution and owner of Silverline Films. We faced our first
our reflections and theirs were stark. We didn’t talk about the obstacle when our United Airlines flight was typically delayed
shot. We wanted to talk about the emotion, the feeling of and we executed a masterful rebooking onto Southwest.
comraderie, the why we were there. We made it into El Paso a few hours later than originally
I’ve been extremely fortunate to travel to amazing places and planned and was picked up by a ranch hand to take us to
hunt extraordinary animals around the world. My trip to Texas Cibolo Creek ranch, a three hour drive just outside of Marfa,
to hunt aoudad will forever be a defining moment for me as a Texas. The first night was one of revelry and a few drinks,
hunter. I can honestly say that for the first time, I experienced greeting Julie, Brittney, Nevada, and our other guide Caleb
the true rush of excitement as I stared at my animal through Wright who had all arrived a couple hours earlier.
my scope. The anticipation as I waited for an ethical shot. The ranch itself was truly spectacular. Converted from an old
Patience as I talked myself through breathing — inhaling, then Fort, the place had a wonderful Southwestern Texas feel. Each
exhaling through my trigger pull. Relief as my body shook with of us had our own rooms and bathrooms, a welcome amenity
adrenaline immediately after I saw the hit. The empowerment after the hot days in South Texas!
knowing that I had achieved a beautiful harvest on my own. The really neat thing about hunting aoudad in this area of
And ultimately, true respect for the animal I had watched and Texas is that they are all free range. Although the ranch
waited on for hours. covered 12,000 acres, these unique animals know no fence or
The hunt began with an invitation from Julie Dianda, the Boss geographic boundaries. This presented a welcome scouting
Woman of the nationally syndicated show, Prime Revolution

31

challenge because we were never guaranteed to locate rams or fabulous guide talked Brittney onto another ewe and she was
be guaranteed a specific sized trophy. Because of the amount able to connect and harvest her first big game animal within
of ground we needed to cover, we split up into two groups. five minutes of mine. It was rush of excitement as we hugged
Julie and Nikki paired off with Nevada while Brittney and and celebrated together.
myself teamed up with Caleb. We spent the first day without Walking up on my ewe, I was struck by how feminine she
much luck spotting rams. We did stumble upon a group of looked. Night and day from the rams, she had a refined head,
javelina and I was able to make a nice offhand 75 yard shot for horns, soft doe-like eyes and a delicate strength. I always
the first kill of the trip. marvel and respect these animals and the terrain they thrive in.
Javelina are probably one of the most repugnant animals We spent the next couple hours field dressing our ewes. Caleb
you’ll come across. Resembling a cross between a capybara walked us through different methods to cape for a shoulder
rodent and a pig, they are in fact related to neither and are mount. Both ewes we estimated to be between nine and 11
considered pests in this part of the country. Smelly and ridden years old. We celebrated with a margarita at the main Cibolo
with disease, ranches are thankful for hunters to reduce the Creek lodge. I have to shout out the amazing staff there. One
population size. And their teeth, good lord, the teeth on these of the bartenders has had drinks published and his Rasp-Mary
creatures are the stuff of nightmares. I was happy to provide (Raspberry and Rosemary) Margarita probably changed my life.
The next morning we got an early start scouting for a ram
for me. The first day we hadn’t seen anything over 25 inches
but with another few days left to find my perfect ram I was
going to be picky. As we glassed, Caleb and Travis gave a
sharp inhale at the same time. My heart dropped out of my
chest, instinctively knowing they had spotted something good.
In a herd of about 20, there was a small group of four rams
hanging out together. My ram stood above the rest. Your naked
eye could tell how large he was. The breadth of his horns
and how thick they were...we hadn’t seen anything near his

this particular extermination service. Later that day, Brittney
was also able to connect with a javelina! It was her first kill and
seeing her smile and give her own “end zone” dance made us
all laugh and remember our first time harvesting an animal.
The day was far from over as we were able to sneak on a large
herd of about 20 ewes. We had obtained management tags
for older ewes to help control herd size. I was up first and
connected with a beautiful female from 350 yards. My shot
spooked another herd from behind a hill and about 20 more
ewes and juvenile rams crested the top coming toward us. Our

32 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUMMER 2018

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caliber yet. The herd was making their slow way along a rocky The area they were in was full of yucca and large trees and
outcropping. In a few minutes they would crest a ridge and we were able to follow their progress by catching glimpses of
drop on the other side. We had to hurry to set up my shot. I their horns through the bushes. Once again we faced a timing
got settled, I breathed, I found him in my scope and then it issue. My ram had crossed across an entire face of a mountain
happened. without offering a decent shot. We had to move before he
I am a confident shooter. I’ve taken long-distance courses and dropped over the next ridgeline.
am very comfortable behind a rifle. I’d never missed before. Skirting through the brush we hoofed it single file trying to
But that buck fever hit me out of nowhere and dangit if I stay out of sight of my ram. Anyone who has hunted aoudad
couldn’t stop shaking. My knees, my legs, my arms, everything knows how flighty and alert these animals are. One wrong
was shaking. A complete out-of-body experience for me I took movement and they will take off poententially not to be seen
a shot, missed, and the rams disappeared. The disappointment again. We set up underneath a tree, concealed by cactus in
I felt was terrible. I was so upset I had let my opportunity slip the most uncomfortable position I’ve been in, and I set my
past me. I had never felt the emotions I did when I saw my crosshairs on my ram waiting to take my shot.
ram through the crosshairs that first time. People had told me Though my scope, I watched one of the coolest things I’d ever
about buck fever, but experiencing it for myself is something seen. My ram reared up behind a yucca plant to eat its flowers
I’ll never forget. and I saw his horns come around both sides of it. He did it
We spent the next several hours trying to find my ram again. several times, always behind the plant, but showing off his
We drove circles around the mountain trying to see where they wide horns each time. Finally, he dropped to all four feet and
might have escaped to. There was no luck until we stopped for profiled himself. Half of his body was still behind the tree,
a late lunch and like a magic unicorn there he was. The relief but I could see his shoulder. “Do you have the shot?” Caleb
that flooded me was intense. There was no way I was making whispered to me. “Yes,” and I pulled the trigger.
another mistake. This was my ram. “GOT HIM!”
Because it was late in the day, the herd was bedded down. We It was a 510 yard shot and the feeling of accomplishment I
waited and watched for a couple hours as they slept. Finally, the experienced after connecting is one I will cherish forever. A
herd got moving again, but another challenge presented itself.

34 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUMMER 2018

feeling of overwhelming excitement and adrenaline knowing
I had succeeded. This hunt with the aoudad ladies will forever
stay with me. I don’t know if it’s because we were all there
together without our husbands and significant others — that
we were doing it on our own was what made it extra special for
me. The friendships that were solidified during that trip will
last forever. The support, encouragement, and comraderie we
all showed each other is something that few get to experience.
I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity the Dianda’s and Prime
Revolution gave us to hunt these amazing animals.
Each one of us ladies was able to connect with a special ram
during the trip. My ram measured 28 inches with 12.5 inch
bases. But regardless of the trophies earned, the inside jokes,
the laughter, the crying, the love is what you leave with. ▪

36 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUMMER 2018



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Idaho Wild Sheep
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Fax: 208-321-4819
Email: [email protected]
www.idahowildsheep.org

A YEAR IN THE LIFE
OF A RAM

Story and Photos by Bruce J. Mincher

As I watched, the three great rams This dominance display by the biggest ram commands uncontested submission from his subordinates.
gathered in a huddle. All were November 2017, Gardiner, MT
full curl despite the obvious
battering their horns had taken. The of submission. According to Valerius with the three in frustrated pursuit. Her
curls were splintered and chipped; frayed Geist, from a sheep’s eye view there really only reprieves were those spectacular
at the ends, but one ram was obviously are only two kinds of sheep: big ones and moments when the rams vented their
dominant. He strode toward the pair of little ones, “The dominant male treats frustration on one another, clashing
less dominant rams with head low and all sheep smaller than he is, irrespective heads with a crack audible in the grassy
neck stretched. In his mind these two of sex and age, like females…Male valley below. Somehow they maintained
weaklings were not suitable to be called dominance and breeding success run their footing through it all, even when
his peers. He twisted his neck from side parallel with horn size.” one pair of combatants lost altitude as
to side to better show his massive curls, There were easily more than one hundred the upper ram pushed his foe vertically
and his eyes bulged as he stuck out his sheep scattered across the yellow grassy down the rocks. Once satisfied that they
tongue. He gave the next largest male a slopes of the valley and into the rocky had humiliated each other they were
kick under the chest with a stiff front leg. hills above. The crusted snow was only immediately and literally again on the
In sheep society the best horns determine patchy; not a hindrance to man or beast. ewe’s tail.
who is in charge and the lesser animals I watched rocks tumble from the steep All this bravado and sexual excitement
automatically follow. As the three rams slopes as another three rams chased a took place in full view of the entire sheep
mashed together one rubbed his chin and not-quite receptive ewe. They worried her community. It was late November. Wild
horns along the back of the boss in a sign mercilessly but each time one attempted sheep of both sexes and all ages had
to mount she would dash away across abandoned angry alpine weather to gather
another sagebrush-studded shale slide, on winter range. Eventually, wind and

39

This low stretch is part of the dominance display a big sheep uses on any smaller
sheep. December 2017, Reynolds Pass, ID

snow were unavoidable even here in the winter well-nourished, and carrying a movements are all made with a certain
valley. In fact, the skies were grey and the minimum burden of microbes. Winter is self-confident absence of hurry, as if
storms were building now. Occasional sometimes the season of mass mortality. he were conscious of a vast reserve of
squalls spit hard white pellets already. But But for now, November is the season for power…he hardly ever makes a mistake.”
with any luck the open slopes would blow making the next generation; the season In spring the sheep go back into the
clean enough for the sheep to literally for putting sheep on the mountain. And high country but not all together. The
scrape out a living. On especially windy the big rams were clearly in charge. As association of rams with the rest of the
days they would soon seek shelter in the Theodore Roosevelt recorded in 1909, crowd is over and the big sheep separate
shadow of a steep slope, or perhaps a “The proud, lordly bearing of an old ram from the little sheep for the year. While
quaking aspen patch. To survive such makes him look exactly what he is, one small bands of rams patrol their own
punishing treatment they must enter the of the noblest of all game animals…his

During an aggressive display like this, the ewe may make a bolt for freedom.
November 2017, Gardiner, MT

40 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUMMER 2018

mountains, pregnant ewes seek out still shedding their winter coats. Big dirty several times during the summer. With
secure places to drop their lambs; wide sheets of old hair peel off to reveal nice fresh lambs in tow they travel down
open spaces with lots of visibility and shorn patches. But the lambs are cute rocky slopes full of good stalking cover.
preferably near steep escape terrain. Last when they are healthy. Healthy bighorn Lambs that fall behind may feed the lion’s
year’s lamb gradually goes his own way in lambs, like human kids, are very active. kittens. A ewe will guard the tragic spot
the few weeks before and during which They run and play. They climb on top for a day or two, mourning with a low
the new lambs are born, usually in May of the ewes and each other. They jump pitched bleat. Malnourished or sickly
or June. The long daylight hours of July straight into the air for no reason other lambs are the most likely to be taken and
find the ewes and their new lambs on than the joy of it. Perhaps they think they their mortality is often compensatory.
the meadows at sometimes over 11,000 can fly. When the ewes return home to the high
feet in elevation. At night they bed on To remain healthy the lambs need proper country after visiting the licks, they come
the vertical slopes that drop into rocky nutrition, and their alpine homes may home with either a healthy lamb, or no
chutes that may extended for as much as or may not provide it. Back in the day, lamb at all.
2000 feet into the abyss. These cliffs and sheep didn’t necessarily need to retreat to
slides are where the lambs are born and it the hill tops for the summer. According Continued on page 35 ►►
is their safety zone after dark. During the to George Bird Grinnell, who wrote in A younger, prime ram might sometimes sneak
day they ascend to the meadows where 1928, “…in old times the wild sheep
they graze in nearly carefree fashion were not confined to what we call past the dominant ram. November 2017,
where few predators dare to go. mountains, but in many parts of their National Elk Refuge, Jackson, WY
Ewes and lambs on summer range seem range…about and near buttes, rough
confident and can be surprisingly easy to bad lands or low rocky hills- were often
approach. They don’t run when a human seen feeding out on the level prairie at
is in view, possibly because humans are so considerable distances from the heights.”
rare at 11,000 feet. They just mosey away Now confined to the alpine where few
at an easy pace; a pace much faster than I men dare to go they may be denied access
can follow at such elevation through the to formerly abundant resources. Some
fell-fields. But they are curious animals. sheep make remarkable short-term visits
If you don’t show too much interest, to low elevations just to eat dirt from
they might gradually feed their way over mineral licks. These temporary visits to
to inspect you. They are scraggly and winter range can involve grueling feats of
less than photogenic this time of year, mountaineering and might be repeated

Sheep must enter winter healthy and well-nourished to survive the season of deprivation.
December 2017, National Elk Refuge, Jackson, WY

41

◄◄Continued from page 33 Undisputed master of all, he surveys.
By autumn, the surviving lambs are about December 2017, Gardiner, MT
half to two-thirds the size of their dams.
As the snow begins to return they begin
to make their way into the valleys for the
season. Sheep that had been separated on
various ridge tops now have their reunion
on the valley floors. The lambs will spend
their first winter at their mother’s sides.
The big rams will meet them there.
A young ram on winter range will get no
more respect from a dominant male than
will a ewe, or even a subordinate adult
male. Yearling rams may practice being
big rams in their attempts at dominance
over young females. Inclusion and
diversity are not wild sheep concepts.
But a ram will be six or seven years old
by the time he has a three-quarter curl
and is in his prime. By then he might
even be ready to sneak past the dominant
ram to chase his ewes. Soon to assume
his own dominance, he is much like a
recent graduate from basic training who
vents his frustrations on the new trainees.
Now it is his turn to put sheep on the
mountain and the cycle begins again. ▪



Where there’s smoke

there’s sheep

44 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUMMER 2018

by Josh Miller

Never in my wildest dreams, did I think I’d be sitting
down to write about my second sheep hunt only a
year after my first! It was May 17th, 2017 when my
fiancé and I were sitting on the couch working on wedding
plans for our June 28th wedding, when my buddy Carl texted
saying that Idaho’s draw results were up. I quickly logged in
and saw the words every sheep hunter dreams of seeing —
SUCESSFUL! I had just drawn a tag in Idaho’s Frank Church
Wilderness, arguably the hardest sheep hunting area in the
lower 48 outside of Montana’s unlimited units. The great
Jack O’Connor referred to that area as, “One of the roughest
spots on earth.” I had done some research prior to applying
to know what I was up against, but oh how I was still in for a
surprise.

The next few months were a whirlwind of Google searches,
forum searches, phone calls, reading books, while at the same
time planning for and getting married in Alaska! At times I
think my fiancé thought I was more excited about this sheep
hunt than our destination wedding! Researching my hunt,
I was surprised about how little information there was on
the forums. Huntinfool.com only had one person on record
drawing the same tag as me. My luck would have it that the
one guy who had drawn the tag just so happened to have a
buddy that drew the same year I had and was not willing to
help with much specific info. However, I was very fortunate
through my searching and posting to meet many great people
along the way that gave me advice and tips on hunting sheep
in that wilderness.

“I WAS HUMBLED BYTHE LOOK OF Mid-July my wife and I returned from Alaska as newlyweds
THE TERRAIN AND RUGGEDNESS. and it was finally time to set foot in my unit to do some
IT MADE MY ALASKA DALL SHEEP scouting. Through my research, I met Mitch who used to
HUNT LOOK MORE LIKE AN spend a lot of time in the area I was hunting. He asked if
ANTELOPE HUNT!” it would be ok for him to accompany my wife and I on a
backpack trip for some scouting. We spent the weekend
glassing, seeing only ewes and lambs. I was humbled by the
look of the terrain and its ruggedness. It made my Alaska
Dall Sheep hunt look more like an antelope hunt! A few
weeks later, my wife and I returned again to a different
section of the unit to do some scouting, but met with a foe I
would soon grow to hate — smoke! We couldn’t glass much
so we only spent two days and left without seeing a sheep.
Despite this setback, I still had high hopes and was excited
for the hunt, now only two weeks away!
My best friend and hunting partner, Sean, drove up from
New Mexico before the hunt and we sorted out gear,
weighed every item to the tenth ounce and loaded up as

45

equal as we could. We headed out two days prior to the opener This time Mitch came with me again. We made our plans and
to fly in and do last minute scouting. This proved to be a waste met up in the unit setting up a nice base camp. We spent a day
of time, money, and effort. The fires were still raging in Idaho, and a half glassing and hunting with no luck. Then an early
Montana, Washington, and Oregon making visibility near to season winter storm set in bringing over a foot of snow and
zero. At one point we had burnt grass and ash raining down on making visibility near zero. We tried waiting it out a couple
us! Coupled with intense 95 degree temperatures, we opted to days until the weather reports I was getting from friends made
fly out the next day and go to another location further south it clear that we would not be getting a break for a while. We
hoping the smoke wasn’t as bad. decided to bag this trip and go back to work for a couple weeks
We reached the second location and set up camp. Opening day and take our vacation in October for one last hoorah.
came and went with nothing spotted except for some deer. September 30th came and I met Mitch in Challis, ID to fly to
Sean and I formulated a plan to spike out and go to the end a landing strip on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River and
of a drainage and work our way up back to base camp. We hunt from the river up. Our hopes were that the sheep would
left early that morning in the dark and headed down a trail have moved down the mountain a little because of the winter
when we heard a shot ring out not far from where we had just storms the area got the two weeks prior. We got to Challis and
left. My heart sank when we saw another hunter packing out flew out, beating a low cloud layer by minutes to slip in and
a sheep not a few hundred yards from where we had walked land. We had brought a raft with us to float across the Middle
in the dark. We glassed and hunted for a few days only seeing Fork, but after getting our gear situated and loaded, halfway
ewes and one immature ram. The conditions were worsening across the river we broke an oarlock turning our rowboat into a
from the heat and smoke so we decided to call it and travel paddleboat!
back to Idaho Falls to fish for a few days. We made our first camp and went for an evening glass with no
Over the next days, I watched the fire activity continue to rams spotted. October 1st we made our second camp mid-
worsen. The year 2017 will go down as one of the worst fire morning and headed up the hill for another evening glass. At
years in the West. Each day my hopes dwindled as the north approximately 6 P.M. I was glassing a drainage I was told had
winds brought the smoke from the devastating fires in Montana sheep during the late tag hunt. I had glassed the same area
and Idaho straight into my hunting unit. Finally, a cold front several times when all of a sudden there was a ram standing in
entered and suppressed the fires so I made plans to go back! the sun! I couldn’t believe my eyes that I was looking at a ram!

46 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUPRMINMGER20210818

I could tell it wasn’t a very big and quickly started picking apart
the hillside around him when two–three–then four more rams
appeared! I got my Swarovski spotter out and started studying
each ram.
The fourth and darkest ram was “The One.” We could tell
from over a mile away he had great bases and was broomed
off on both sides. I loved the character of his horns and knew
that was the ram I came for. Pete, with Stone Glacier Packs,
said it best, “Its like you found Santa Clause.” The excitement
I felt was unlike anything else I’ve ever experienced hunting.
Just seeing the rams I started shaking! I looked at Mitch and
we both came to the same conclusion, it was too late in the day
and they were not in an ideal location to make a move on them
that night so we would have to come back tomorrow.
We got up early the next day and headed up the 2000 vertical
feet to get to a vantage point. We climbed and climbed, our
anticipation building with each step. We started glassing to
find the four rams again, but with no luck. My hopes began to
dwindle as each new glassing spot we would climb to did not
reveal our ram. At this point, we had climbed nearly 3000 feet
to the top of the ridge and were both getting tired. I looked
over at a large rocky spot and we agreed it looked like a good
spot to see the last rockslide the rams could be hiding in.
We worked our way over to the rocks and Mitch went to the
edge and looked over. He quickly ducked, pointing down and
mouthed, “SHEEP!” I dropped my pack, grabbed my rifle and
made my way to the edge. Looking through my binos into the
chute, I saw two rams lying in the sun. Neither was my dark
colored ram.
I looked into the shadows and there was the dark ram facing
us at 188 yards! Instantly, I started shaking with excitement and
spent a few seconds collecting and calming myself. The shot
was going to be difficult with the steep angle, tall grass and
brush, and narrow spots to get a rest. I got a spot in-between
two sharp rocks and using one as a rest I put the crosshairs
on the rams chest. I took a deep breath to calm myself once
more and squeezed the trigger. WHOP!! I hit him!! He stood
up and spun broadside behind a tree branch. I could see a
small opening around his shoulder that I wanted to try and fit
a second shot into. WHOP!! A positive second hit and I lost
sight of him.
Mitch and I gathered our packs and gear and headed down an
incredibly steep rocky chute. I took one rolling rock to the calf
and ripped a hole in my pants on a rock on the descent. We
got down about 100 yards and there were rams standing there
staring at us! I threw up my rifle and looked and none were the
dark colored ram. The three were just standing there looking
at us, seemingly confused about what had just happened. I had
heard that sometimes when you shoot the lead ram the others

47

don’t know what to do and won’t run off immediately. and the meat on the opposite bank. We stood there tabout to
Mitch looked down the draw and pointed, “There he is! He’s do something ill-advised when thankfully a group of boaters
down.” I scrambled and half fell my way down the chute to came through and ferried me across to gather the rest of our
where he was. I let out a WAHOOO!! I couldn’t believe it — gear.
I had just killed a Bighorn! I put all my gear down and went Weather came in and delayed our flight a day but our spirits
over to him and sat there admiring how beautiful he was and were high every time we looked at the ram. We stayed at the
how much character his horns had. I picked up his head and strip with a nice campfire and the incredibly beautiful views of
marveled at how heavy those horns really are. the Middle Fork and the Frank Church Wilderness.
We took pictures, high fived, and got to work. I didn’t sleep When the plane finally came in to pick us up and we were in
that night with every little noise keeping me awake wondering the air, I sat in the plane looking out across the hills and river. I
if a bear was coming to claim my trophy as his. The pack out am still amazed at its beauty, in the people who came before me
up river to the landing strip was seven miles and it was a brutal in wooden boats exploring, and the Sheepeater tribe that called
one with a pack weight of 110-pounds of sheep and camp this place home. I spent 18 days in this wilderness scouting and
gear. We got back across the river from the airstrip that night hunting enduring mental and physical tests that came close to
and opted to cross the river the next day with better light and breaking me several times. The quest of finding my ram kept
rested bodies. me going and I came away from this hunt knowing it was the
Our bad luck with boats continued when we crossed back to hardest thing I’ve ever done, but I did it! I will have memories
the landing strip where we broke an oar half way across the of the hunt, the time spent with friends, and the things I
river! I flailed us across with one paddle narrowly making shore learned about myself to last a lifetime. ▪
at the end of the landing strip. But we still had half our gear

48 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUMMER 2018

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idwsf conservation
report

by Jim Jeffress & Mike Schlegel

Conservation related issues that influence bighorn sheep completed, will serve as the guiding document for future
come in many forms and require our input to establish management on those forests. WSF’s primary issues are
how we stand on issues. Obviously bighorn exposure to separation of bighorn from domestic sheep/goats and the
domestic sheep or goats in the wild or in association with limitation of pack goats into and around bighorn habitat.
farm flocks present the largest single threat to bighorn. Each issue is influenced by a number of aspects within
Idaho WSF has worked hard in addressing those issues to each plan. Draft forest plans do not classify bighorns
insure there is adequate separation between the species or as a Species of Conservation Concern (SCC). SCC is
mitigation measures are taken to reduce the risk. Given the a designation put forward to identify species that have
fact that bighorn populations exist primarily on public lands, experienced a decline and their status is not secured into
interaction with the Forest Service and BLM as it relates to the future. Example being Sage Grouse or Pika. The
their policies, regulations and land use plans comprise the filtering process used is substantially more detailed, but
bulk of our time. Current instances or examples of work that is the basic concept. Until very recently, the forest
conducted to advance Bighorn conservation follow in the service assured us that bighorn were considered SCC
below paragraphs. which would elevate their importance within the planning
Last November a letter was sent to Congressman Simpson process. Now the forest service, after running the species
requesting that the United States Sheep Experiment through indexing or filtering system has determined they do
Station (USSES) be retooled to meet more current needs not merit that classification. WSF, IDWSF and a number
as opposed to grazing studies which have been conducted of other bighorn advocacy groups have all expressed our
on that site for 100 years as of 2017. The proposal was to disagreement with that determination from a biological and
have USDA and Agricultural Research Service (ARS) enjoin scientific perspective. We will continue to argue the point
in research to better understand and seek control measures and challenge the assessment process findings to reverse
for Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae (Movi). In so much as that decision!
Movi affects both domestic sheep and bighorn, we believe IDWSF continues to work with WSF, other chapters and,
a joint retooling of USSES would benefit the domestic affiliates throughout the west to work on getting the land
sheep industry as well as bighorns. The studies would management agencies to complete and implement the
have to be confined to the lower country to mitigate the Risk of Contact (ROC) models. Congress mandated that
current potential mingling with bighorn. Currently we are both BLM and the Forest Service complete those models
working with Congressman Simpsons Boise staff to initiate assessments. The models will help determine the degree of
a working group to look at our proposal and other uses for risk domestic sheep pose to bighorns in close or variable
the station. distances from bighorn populations. The completion
We continue to work on the Salmon-Challis and Nez of the assessments has supposedly been completed, but
Perce-Clearwater forests in their long term planning process IDWSF has not been presented with or apprised of that
which is under current development. These plans, when work. It seems as though it has been subjected to endless
modifications based on new data. The ROC assessments

50 IDAHOWILDSHEEP.ORG / SUMMER 2018