When two bowhunters spotted a rifle being fired during the archery‑only season in the Little Belt Mountains last September, they did what the state’s “If You See Something, Say Something” campaign encourages: they called Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. Their tip set off a multi‑month investigation that uncovered multiple wildlife violations and resulted in a father and son losing a combined 24 years of hunting privileges.
How the investigation unfolded
Game wardens were dispatched to the scene after the bowhunters reported the illegal shot. The animal in question turned out to be a trophy 6×6 bull elk that had been left to waste, a clear breach of the archery‑only season rules.
During a routine traffic stop, authorities identified the shooter as Billings resident Michael Letasky. Further inquiry revealed that Letasky had also fired a rifle at another bull elk during the 2023 archery season and was in possession of an unreported black bear.
The probe did not stop there. Investigators discovered that Letasky’s son, Kolton Letasky of Austin, Texas, had taken a mule deer buck in 2024 and a bull elk in 2022, both without the required permits.
Legal consequences
Both Michael and Kolton Letasky pleaded guilty to multiple wildlife violations earlier this month. Michael faces more than $12,000 in fines and restitution, plus a 20‑year suspension of his hunting privileges. Kolton will pay over $3,000 in fines and restitution and lose his hunting privileges for four years.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Game Warden Diego O’Brien emphasized that tips from responsible hunters are a vital tool in protecting the state’s wildlife resources. He encouraged anyone who suspects a violation to call the tip line at 1‑800‑TIP‑MONT or submit a report online through TipMont.
Why this matters to Montanans
Montana’s hunting traditions are a cornerstone of the state’s cultural heritage and economy. Enforcing season rules helps preserve healthy wildlife populations for future generations of families who rely on hunting for recreation, food, and tradition. The Letasky case serves as a reminder that violations not only threaten animal populations but also carry serious legal and financial repercussions.
Local hunters and outdoor enthusiasts are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. By working together, the community can ensure that Montana’s wildlife remains abundant and that the rights of law‑abiding hunters are protected.
Original reporting: NewsTalk KGVO 1290 (Townsquare) — read the source article.
