Winter is here

Finally, it seems winter has graced the valleys with its presence, drawing recreationalists from Montana and throughout surrounding states. Locals who have patiently waited for snow to fall have begun trapping, ice fishing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Here are few things to remember when engaging in these outdoor activities, especially with these bone chilling temperatures and windy days.

If you're headed out for a walk through the snow-blanketed woods, especially if bringing along a four-legged companion, be cautious about potential trap activity. Dogs can be attracted to trap lines by scent lures and other attractants, so keep your pet on a leash or within eyesight to prevent them from becoming incidentally trapped.

Traps can legally be set 50 feet off a designated road or trail, however, roads closed year-round to motor vehicle and OHV use are not subject to those setbacks. Ground set traps, like traditional foothold traps, cannot be set within 300 feet of a trailhead.

For further information about legal traps, please see Montana FWP's 2020 Furbearer & Trapping regulations available online and at local license providers. To report unlawful traps, please call 1-800-TIP-MONT or the local Game warden. It is unlawful to interfere with a lawfully set trap.

For those heading to the backcountry on snowmobiles, there are several things to know before you hit the slopes.

Montana residents using snowmobiles, snow bikes, fat tire bicycles and e-bikes must purchase a 'Resident Trail Pass' for $20 (valid two seasons). Non-residents using snowmobiles or snow bikes in Montana must purchase a 'Non-Resident Temporary Use Permit' for $35 (valid one winter season). Permanent decals must also be displayed on snowmobiles registered in Montana. Both resident and non-resident decals may be purchased at several local vendors. For more information visit: https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/activities

Whether you're a die-hard ice fisherman or occasionally go try your luck with friends, don't forget that the new license year begins on March 1st, so you'll soon need to purchase a 2021 Season Fishing license. Pike fishing has been picking up on Seeley Lake but reports on other lakes are not as favorable. You'll need to bring a snow shovel to get down to the ice on most lakes since this most recent dumping of snow.

Finally, when engaging in any of these outdoor activities, be prepared for cold winter temperatures, bring extra layers, food and a heat source if you expect to be outdoors for long periods of time. In sub-zero temperatures, frostbite can kick in in less than 30 minutes. Learn to recognize the signs of frostbite, limit the amount of exposed skin when outside and tell a friend or family member where you are going and when they should expect you to be back home.

Enjoy this winter weather while it lasts. Spring and summer will soon be upon us, bringing with it a new set of challenges and excitement!