Muzzleloader representation

[washelkhunter]

My fellow Ml's.  One glaring point in the discussions of late is the fact that we do not have adequate nor effective representation at the state level. I.E. with the WDFW. Should we as a legitimate user group form a body that will represent our needs, issues and concerns? A group which speaks on behalf of ML hunters, and hunting issues only.
 
I propose that we name this organization:  Muzzleloader Hunters of Washington State.

What are your thoughts?

[bigpaw 77]

Im in where do I sign up.

[adamR]

sounds good to me, it's not already an organization?

[3Under]

Isn't there a group already?     Washington State Muzzleloader Association, or something like that...

[fair-chase]

I think there is a sub-chapter of WFW that would fit the bill. I've been dragging my heels on membership into WFW anyways and need to buck up.

[rasbo]

I think there is a sub-chapter of WFW that would fit the bill. I've been dragging my heels on membership into WFW anyways and need to buck up.

there ya have it,join in, one big dog might be better than many lil ones

[washelkhunter]

What i'm thinking of is an aggressive and active group which will network and put pressure on politicians and the WDFW to expand and improve opportunities and seasons for the ML community and focusing solely on hunting. I do not see an advantage in being associated with reenactors or renedevousers. No offense to either of course.

[brutus1]

We as muzzleloaders are taking the back seat in every hunt,One being the number of days we get to hunt,Two being the crappy deer seasons and all the areas being either private or pay to hunt areas,Three the elk hunt is to short campared to the to other user groups and the reduction of permits also. If everybody wrote at least one letter we might get results. The problem with muzzleloaders is to many people get points and jump in or out depending if they get drawn. Also to many people in the muzzleloading group fight about the in-lines, we just need to come together and fight as one group.my 2cents ....

[bobcat]

There were many GMU's added to the muzzleloader deer seasons a couple years ago. The early muzzleloader deer season has the majority of the state. Late season there is still plenty of opportunity, except for mule deer, but that's understandable.

For elk I agree, not very many units open, but if you don't like it, hunt modern firearm or archery.   

If you really want to hunt with a muzzleloader they are legal during modern firearm season.

[Ridgerunner]

From what I've seen the group that represents muzzleloaders is pretty much only interested in the real traditional stuff, I agree a better voice for all mz hunters is needed.

[boneaddict]

As a bowhunter, I see a lot of wasted time and energy argueing over frivolous stuff (like lighted nocks), instead of focusing on season setting etc.   Sure its fine to argue for something you like, but I'd think if I wanted to be really heard, its better to be loud about specific things instead of a bunch of things......

I wonder if muzzelloaders face some of the same deterents or distractions.....

[Sabotloader]

Isn't there a group already?     Washington State Muzzleloader Association, or something like that...

There is they are very active, but it is more a Traditional Association than a Hunters Association.  I am not sure they would represent ML hunters.

But right there on their Home Page it says....

Whether you're a Hunter or Re-Enactor the WSMA is looking

for you!

Representing the Muzzleloader Hunter statewide basis.

Our recognized representative attends and maintains involvement with the
Washington Department of Fish and Game http://wdfw.wa.gov/ committees.

OUR GOALS
Provide Muzzleloader hunters input

Ensure future hunting opportunities   

Support  clubs and individuals attuned to the Mountain Man re-enactment.

http://wamuzzleloaders.org/