Youth hunters in Montana honored by Governor Gianforte

HELENA, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte has announced the winners of the 2024 Governor’s Youth Hunting Story Contest, a celebration of Montana's hunting heritage.

“Hunting is a vital part of Montana’s legacy, connecting generations through respect for the land and wildlife,” said Gov. Gianforte. He expressed excitement about the young hunters' stories and invited the ten winners to the State Capitol for recognition.

The Youth Hunting Story Contest, created by Gov. Gianforte in 2022, is open to Montana youth and apprentice hunters aged 10 to 17. Participants submitted a story of up to 500 words about their hunting experiences, along with a photo. Eligible entries included harvesting any legal game, furbearer animals, or birds in Montana.

The ten winners will be recognized at the State Capitol this month and will receive prizes from sponsors including Stone Glacier, Sitka, J2 Taxidermy, Kenetrek, Montana Outfitters and Guides Association, Murdochs, and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

“Thanks to our prize partners, there are some great prizes for our winners to aid them as they continue hunting for years to come,” Gov. Gianforte said, expressing gratitude to the sponsors for their generosity.

Among the winners is Ambreigh Morris of Baker, who shared the story of her first deer hunt with her uncle. Other winners include Amelia Saylor of Wilsall, Hannah Smith of Bozeman, and Hays Darr of Bozeman, each sharing unique and personal hunting stories.

Jacob Reddish of Lakeside, Layton Arnold of Belgrade, and Malena Altschwager of Corvallis were also recognized for their compelling stories. Noah Wheatley of Deer Lodge, Remuda Seymour of Dillon, and Wyatt Mosher of Jefferson City rounded out the list of winners, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Montana's hunting tradition.

Readers can explore these young hunters' stories online here.