COLUMBIA FALLS – State game wardens are looking for a poacher who shot a 6-point bull elk and left the animal to waste in the Blankenship Bridge area north of Columbia Falls last week.
The big elk was found by an archery hunter, who called Montana wildlife officials about the incident.
The elk couldn’t be salvaged.
Capt. Lee Anderson of Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks called the shooting inexcusable.
Anderson says this wasn’t subsistence hunting or an accident, it was poaching.
Anyone with information can dial 1-800-TIPMONT or call (406) 892-3996. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward if they provide information leading to a conviction.