Tradbowmt

Traditional Bowhunters of Montana (TBM) operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to advancing traditional bowhunting values in Montana. With nearly 200 members and growing, the organization has spent nearly 20 years building community, defending archery-only seasons, and promoting ethical hunting practices.

Advocacy & Legislative Defense

TBM takes a hard stance on archery-only seasons. The organization successfully defeated legislation in 2021 that would have allowed crossbows into Montana's archery season—a fight led by founder Mark Baker, now recognized on TBM's Wall of Honor. Beyond blocking bad bills, TBM submits detailed comments to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks on proposals affecting traditional archers, from shoulder season extensions to elk management plans.

"It takes all of us working together" to achieve organizational goals, according to TBM leadership. With crossbow battles expected to heat up again in 2023, the organization launched a membership drive targeting 500 members—doubling current enrollment.

TBM hosts two major annual shoots:

• •Summer Shoot - Features 3D archery courses, 14-hole archery golf, long-distance competitions, and membership meetings with elections. Recent winners include Tim Johnson (long-distance shoot winner two years running) and Barry Sluder (archery golf best score). Prizes come from sponsors like The Footed Shaft.
• •Winter Banquet at Chico - Annual gathering for camaraderie and planning.

Education & Youth Development

TBM is actively exploring a youth camp program where members can teach woodsmanship, ethics, and traditional archery to young hunters. The organization emphasizes teaching proper technique and philosophy rather than just equipment.

Wall of Honor

TBM recognizes outstanding contributions to the organization. The inaugural 2022 class honored: - Mark Baker - Founder and first president; secured 501(c)(3) status and led the fight against crossbow legislation - Dick Robertson - Founder of both Montana Bowhunters Association and TBM; creator of Robertson Stykbows; donated bows and wisdom to the community - Bob Morgan - Volunteer powerhouse known for teaching flint knapping and selfbow carving; first to arrive, last to leave at every event

Each honoree receives a plaque displayed at all TBM events, an individual commemorative plaque, and a custom knife from Hammer Knives (Havre, MT).

In 2021, TBM unanimously voted to join the Montana Bowhunting Coalition (MBC) alongside Montana Wildlife Federation, Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, and Montana Bowhunters Association. The coalition works to:

• •Promote the Permit to Modify Archery Equipment (PTMAE), which has served nearly 650 disabled hunters with custom solutions
• •Block crossbow incursion into archery seasons
• •Coordinate offense on 2023 legislation

TBM membership includes hunters across Montana with diverse interests:

• •Deer & elk hunters pursuing traditional bowhunting on public and private lands
• •3D archery competitors and target shooters
• •Bowyers crafting selfbows and traditional equipment
• •Conservation-minded hunters defending ethical standards

New members receive welcome packages that may include Hurst bows, custom cedar arrows, and gear. Existing members can refer new members for chances to win $950 gift certificates toward Black Widow bows.

TBM's core position: traditional archery represents a more ethical, challenging, and respectful approach to hunting. The organization opposes shoulder season expansion onto public lands (which would push elk onto private property and privatize hunting access) and advocates for management plans that serve all Montana hunters—not just those who can pay for private land access.

Current board includes Jamie White (elected to second term in 2021), Garrett Sereday (Gallatin Valley), and William Spahr (Great Falls). The organization is actively recruiting volunteers for the youth camp exploratory committee.