Chris Hunter Named FWP  Fisheries Division Administrator

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Chris Hunter, a 12-year veteran of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, was recently named the agency’s Fisheries Division administrator.

Hunter, 51, was promoted from his post as FWP’s assistant Fisheries Division administrator, which he’s held since 1999. Hunter replaces Larry Peterman, who was promoted to FWP’s chief of operations in September.

 Hunter began his career with FWP in 1989 as the Lower Missouri River Reservation biologist. In 1990, he became the agency’s Special Projects bureau chief.

Hunter earned his undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences from the University of California at Santa Barbara and his master’s degree in zoology from the University of Montana. He has extensive experience in instream flows, native fish management, hydropower relicensing and stream restoration. He’s the author of Better Trout Habitat , published by Island Press in 1991.  In 1989, Hunter served as president of the Montana Chapter of the American Fisheries Society. Prior to joining FWP, Hunter was the general manager and fisheries biologist for a Helena consulting firm. 

"Chris has already emerged as a proven leader on an array of important issues facing Montana," said FWP Director Jeff Hagener. "He brings a solid understanding of fishery science to this position and a commitment to maintaining Montana’s sport fisheries as the best in the nation."