Governor Greg Gianforte today honored the winners of his third annual Youth Hunting Story Contest in a ceremony at the State Capitol. The contest, designed to celebrate Montana’s rich hunting heritage, attracted nearly 200 entries this year.
“We started the Youth Hunting Story Contest to celebrate Montana’s proud hunting heritage, and the contest continues to grow with nearly 200 stories submitted this year,” said Gov. Gianforte. “It’s an honor to welcome the top ten winners to the State Capitol once again. I’m proud to see the next generation of hunters carrying on our hunting legacy.”
The Youth Hunting Story Contest was created by the governor in 2022 for Montana youth and apprentice hunters aged 10 to 17. Participants were asked to submit a 500-word story and a photo from their hunt. Entries were accepted for legal game, furbearer animals, or birds harvested in Montana.
The ten winning hunters were recognized today for their creative and heartfelt submissions. Each received prizes donated by several prominent organizations, including Stone Glacier, Sitka, Kenetrek, J2 Taxidermy, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Murdoch’s, and the Montana Outfitters and Guides Association.
“I want to thank our generous sponsors for supporting this celebration of young hunters,” said Gov. Gianforte. “These young people exemplify the passion and dedication of Montana’s next generation of hunters.”
The 2024 Youth Hunting Story Contest Winners
The following young hunters were recognized for their outstanding stories:
- Ambreigh Morris (12, Baker) – First deer hunt with her uncle
- Amelia Saylor (14, Wilsall) – Deer hunt in a new town
- Hannah Smith (14, Bozeman) – First “forkie” buck hunt
- Hays Darr (10, Bozeman) – First bird hunt
- Jacob Reddish (16, Lakeside) – First solo hunt
- Leyton Arnold (14, Belgrade) – Saving seven years for his first elk hunt
- Malena Altschwager (13, Corvallis) – Deer hunt with her dad
- Noah Wheatley (13, Deer Lodge) – Special deer hunt with his dad
- Remuda Seymour (12, Dillon) – New family hunting tradition
- Wyatt Mosher (15, Jefferson City) – First antelope hunt on public land
Gov. Gianforte’s contest continues to highlight the importance of passing down Montana’s hunting traditions to younger generations. With these stories, the governor underscores his commitment to ensuring the future of hunting and fostering a deeper connection to the state’s outdoor heritage.
The winning stories can be viewed on the governor’s website, where Montanans can celebrate the achievements of these young hunters.