It still amazes me after living my entire life in Miles City that certain groups think that they own the rights to public lands and rivers. I personally own campers, jet skis, boats, guns, fishing poles, bikes, motor cycles, and snowmobiles and have always encouraged the use of them. I enjoy the great outdoors with my family. I also own a home and land. I also pay taxes, registration and use fees on all of the above. I have jet skied and boated on rives and lakes in Montana for years with my family. We are experienced operators/users.
I have always tried to be respectful of others, whether it be fisher people/boaters/property owners. We never trespass to gain access to the river, as do some floaters and fisherman. We always stay below the high water mark and if we pack it in we pack it out. Unfortunately some fisherman think they own the river and the boat ramps. They litter, trespass, and are inconsiderate of other people (i.e. The way I have found areas of the boat ramp and areas of the river banks after certain fishing groups have been there.) However, I am glad they are able to enjoy the outdoors.
Instead of a petition to try to limit access to our wonderful water in Montana. Why not get to a petition for the FWP to increase access to the river. To put in or repair boat ramps and build new handicap accessible camping areas, ATV areas, fishing decks and fishing areas so more can enjoy the great outdoors. Come on, lets encourage outdoor activities to the next generations instead of phones, TVs, video games and drugs. (not that one has anything to do with the other). Kris