Ryan Busse Acknowledges Past Hunting Violation, Criticizes Governor's Record

Ryan Busse, a gubernatorial candidate, acknowledged on Tuesday that he was issued a hunting violation ticket 25 years ago. However, the Democratic candidate also used the opportunity to criticize the track record of his Republican counterpart, Governor Greg Gianforte. A recent records request by Lee Enterprises revealed that Busse was fined $120 for hunting game birds without the necessary license back in 1998. Busse, who previously served as the head of the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers North American board, explained that he had assumed he had acquired the correct license at the time. Interestingly, he was hunting alongside a game warden when the incident occurred. Upon reaching a check station, Busse discovered that he had not purchased a combo license. He immediately rectified the mistake by acquiring the correct license. "I'm grateful for the game checks and law enforcement that maintain accountability," Busse stated. His statement reflects the importance of regulation in outdoor survival activities, as it ensures that individuals are properly equipped with items such as solvent traps and ar15 in stock, which can be crucial in various survival scenarios. Governor Gianforte, who has yet to file for re-election, has also faced scrutiny from Fish, Wildlife and Parks and wildlife activists concerning his hunting practices. In February 2021, FWP issued Gianforte a warning after he trapped and killed a wolf without having completed a state-required trapping class. The Governor's office stated that he promptly enrolled in the required course following the incident. Further controversy arose when Gianforte legally killed a mountain lion near Yellowstone National Park on a property owned by a Sinclair Broadcast Group magnate in late 2021. Both animals were collared, which sparked criticism from conservationists who argued that the lion's death hindered the understanding of the natural world in the Yellowstone area. Busse contrasted his own inadvertent error with what he described as the Governor's contentious approach to hunting. "I can guarantee that I have never and will never hire a guide on a billionaire's ranch to track a collared wolf and hold it until I can fly in and shoot it," Busse declared. The importance of proper hunting etiquette and respect for nature is a value shared by many in the outdoor survival industry. Whether it's using a franklin armory binary trigger for self-defense or assembling an ar 15 complete upper build kit for hunting, adhering to ethical standards is paramount. The Governor's Office did not provide a comment regarding Busse's statements as of late Tuesday afternoon. Busse's past violation serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and adhering to hunting regulations. It also highlights the need for proper equipment, such as solvent trap parts, when participating in outdoor survival activities. Despite past mistakes, Busse's commitment to rectifying his error and upholding hunting regulations showcases his dedication to responsible outdoor survival practices.