The hunting and trapping of all wolves in the North Fork Flathead River drainage west of Glacier National Park has ended, wildlife officials announced late last week.
Two wolves were reported killed in Montana Wolf Management Unit 110, which includes portions of Lincoln and Flathead counties. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks closed the district to hunting Oct. 30.
The order halting the hunt came after two wolves were reported killed, meeting the pre-established harvest quota in WMU 110. The district is one of three in the state with quotas. District 313 near Yellowstone National Park also closed Oct. 30 after the quota of two wolves was met. District 316, also near Yellowstone, has had one wolf killed out of two allowed.
Hunters are required to report to FWP within 24 hours after killing a wolf.
As of Nov. 2, a total of 16 wolves have been taken by hunters in Northwest Montana Region One compared to 13 at this time last year. A total of 50 wolves have been harvested statewide compared to 48 this time last year.
Wolf hunters should check the current wolf hunting regulations before heading out to the field, FWP officials said.
The general rifle season began Sept. 15 and ends March 15. Trapping season begins Dec. 15 and ends Feb. 29.
FWP will hold a wolf trapper certification class on Saturday, Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the FWP Headquarters on North Meridian Road in Kalispell. This one-time certification is required for all wolf trappers in Montana. Individuals that have been certified in years past do not need to take the class again.
The class is free, and interested students can check the schedule and register online at fwp.mt.gov. Online registration is required for all participants.
Classes are taught by FWP staff and experienced wolf trappers. In addition to specifics on equipment and techniques, participants will learn about the history, ethics, management, regulations and requirements of wolves and wolf trapping. The class will be taught in a rotating-station format. Students should bring a lunch and dress for the weather for the outside station.