Author: Forrest Fisher

Wonders of Wildlife NOW OPEN, An Amazing Adventure into the WORLD of WILDLIFE

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Wonders of Wildlife provides Tribute to Fish and Wildlife
  • Wonders of Wildlife NATIONAL MUSEUM & AQUARIUM is Extraordinary
  • Founder, Johnny Morris, Has Provided a Trail to Lifelong Conservation in the Outdoors through Fishing, Bass Pro Shops and now, WONDERS OF WILDLIFE
  • Rick Clunn will Attend

By Forrest Fisher

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium Opens Sep. 20, 2017 – An Extraordinary Experience! 

One of the most respected professional bass anglers in the world is Rick Clunn.  I was humbled to fish with Rick on three different fishing tournament occasions in the mid-90s.  Having done that, It was easy to understand why this southern gentleman was such a successful angler. 

In one word, Rick Clunn has “FOCUS” when he is fishing.  He “TUNES-IN” to every spot, every situation, every cast.  His success as a 5-time BASS Champion demonstrates his “UNDERSTANDING” for fishing.  Above all his fishing success, Rick Clunn is humble, soft-spoken and a true conservationist.   Today Rick will be in Springfield, Missouri, and he has this to share with everyone through his Facebook account:  

Rick Clunn is humble, successful and a role model for all anglers – he will be on hand today at the grand opening.  Rick Clunn Feature Photo

“Melissa and I will be privileged to attend the Grand Opening of the Wonders of Wildlife.  I am sure, like everything Johnny Morris has created, it will defy even the most complimentary descriptions possible.  I made the statement after winning the B.A.S.S. St. John’s River Tournament, “Never accept that all your greatest moments are in the past.”  This man has lived that philosophy his whole life and continues to.  Most will see and be inspired by the Wonders of Wildlife, but I fear there are some who will see it as only a capitalistic venture or a monument to an individual’s ego.

For those of you who might feel that way, I offer my observations and understanding.  I present this view because I cannot tell you how many times I have heard people ask, “Why does he build these museum style stores to sell fishing tackle? Why not be like others in the industry and just put up a metal building and have a lot less overhead?”

I will tell you, to me these are monuments, but not to Johnny Morris! These are monuments to all outdoors people and to the Natural World that he continuously and tirelessly fights for.  At Big Cedar Lodge on Table Rock Lake, there is a Convention Center whose walls are lined with some of the greatest conservation mind’s, thoughts and quotes.  If you think the many Bass Pro Outdoor Worlds are only about selling fishing and hunting tackle I offer the following: “If I fished only to capture fish, my fishing trips would have ended long ago.” Zane Grey.”

I grew up an Angler when being an Angler was observed as nothing more than playing hooky from school or work.  It did not share the status of football, basketball, golf, or other sports.  One of my supervisors at Exxon Oil would talk with you about golf all day, but don’t dare waste company time talking about fishing.  Even after I quit my socially excepted profession, working for the 2nd largest computing center in the world, and started my angling career most thought I had a bad case of sun stroke.  I confess, I will never forget the first time I was proud to be an Angler.  I had gone to Springfield, Missouri, to represent one of my sponsors at the grand-daddy of all fishing stores, at their Spring Fishing Classic.  I had been in a lot of tackle fishing shops, but nothing could have prepared me for this.  When I walked in the front door of the Bass Pro Shop Outdoor World, I was moved.  It was beautiful and I had never seen anything like it.  But more than its beauty, I felt a sense of pride in who I was that I had not felt before.  To this day I challenge every outdoor person to tell me that they did not feel a little of the same, their first time there.  I now know that Johnny saw the Outdoors – and those who enjoy it, as important elements in the conservation of the fast disappearance of our natural world.

“Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after.” Henry David Thoreau.

I recognize now, like Johnny did from the beginning, that to conserve the natural world we have to expose as many people to its Wonders as possible.  He knew that fishing is one of the last remaining vehicles for the masses to experience the natural world and understand its importance to the sanity of man’s world.  Johnny’s Conservation efforts are never ending.  So when you tour the Wonders of Wildlife, remember the words of Theodore Roosevelt, “There can be no greater issue than that of conservation in this country.”

Please stay tuned to the Wonders of Wildlife Facebook account for Live streams Sept 20th www.facebook.com/wondersofwildlife. 

Events start at 3:00 PM the 20th. #WondersofWildlife.

Hope to see you there soon.

 

Orleans County Fishing Report – Sep. 19, 2017

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Weather Warm-Up will Cool-Down Lake Ontario Fish Movement in Trib’s
  • Archer’s Club Tourney Coming Up on the “Oak,” see Details
  • Smallmouth Fishing Good on Lake Alice

Today is Tuesday September 19, 2017.

Well it looks like we are in for another long stretch of pleasant summerlike weather conditions.  This should slow down the migration of trout and salmon towards their spawning grounds just a bit.

Early morning and late evening fishing from the pier heads have been fairly productive, as has been trolling the “wall” at those times.

There are still a good number of fish and bait in the 70 to 200 feet of water range for those who still have boats in the water.

This past weekend I was at a function at the Archers Club and conditions never looked better.  There is a good water flow throughout the entire area which should make for some fantastic fishing this fall.  They also have made some great improvements to the facilities in the enlarged kitchen area.

Mark on your calendar October 18th, 19th and 20th for the St. Mary’s Archers Club Catch and Release Fly Fishing Derby.  This great event features 3 days of great fishing, fantastic food and some wonderful prizes, truly an event not to be missed.

With the warm up, fishing in the lower stretches of the “Oak”, Lake Alice and the Erie Canal has slowed a bit except for the smallmouth bass fishing.  That will all change once some cooler temperatures return to our area.

Initial reports from the DEC creel census folks look like this has been one of the highest catch rate years for trout and salmon they have ever seen.  This proves, once again, that Lake Ontario and its tributaries are alive and very healthy, even with the little extra water Mother Nature has given us.

From Point Breeze on Lake Ontario, the World Fishing Network’s Ultimate Fishing Town USA and the rest of Orleans County.  We try to make everyday a great fishing day in Orleans County.

Email: sportfishing@orleansny.com

 

 

FLW Costa Bass-Fishing Series Moves to Buffalo, NY, in 2018

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • FLW Costa Series to Buffalo, NY
  • Competition Event Set for July 26-28, 2018 
  • Eastern Lake Erie Bass Fishing Resource DRAWS WORLD CLASS ANGLERS 
  • Abundant Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass will Provide Highlight for Region
Patrick Kaler, President and CEO of Visit Buffalo Niagara and Buffalo Niagara Sports Commission, has worked with FLW executives, local bass fishing organizations and  local members of the Erie County Fish Advisory Board to bring the Costa FLW Bass Fishing Series to Buffalo in 2018. Forrest Fisher Photo

BUFFALO, N.Y. – September 8, 2017 – On July 26th – 28th, Buffalo will welcome an estimated field of 150 boats and 350 anglers plus staff to compete in the 2018 Costa Fishing League Worldwide (FLW) Tournament Series.  The bass fishing tournament will take place in Lake Erie with boat launch action from Safe Harbor Marina at Buffalo Harbor State Park, located in Buffalo’s growing recreational resource area known as the “Outer Harbor.”   

Fishing League Worldwide (FLW) is the world’s largest tournament fishing organization consisting of three events among five divisions.  The top 40 pro-anglers and co-anglers in each division will advance to the FLW Bass Championship in Lake Guntersville, Alabama.  The Buffalo event is expected to generate approximately 1,200 hotel room nights and produce over $836,000 in economic impact.

Lake Erie’s great renown as a bass fishery helped propel its selection for the 2018 event, tournament organizers said. Bassmaster Magazine recently ranked Lake Erie as the country’s seventh best and the Northeast’s top bass fishery.

“We are thrilled to visit Buffalo, New York, and the world-class Lake Erie fishery for a Costa FLW Series tournament in 2018.  Buffalo hosted FLW’s All-American Championship in 1990 and 1991, plus FLW Series events in 2004 and 2011, and a College Fishing qualifier in 2011.  

Each of these tournaments rank among the best ever held, so our return to Buffalo is welcomed and long overdue.  This is a highly anticipated event for our staff and competitors,” said Kathy Fennel, President of Operations, Fishing League Worldwide 

“The COSTA FLW Championship Series will bring some of the world’s best fishermen here to Lake Erie, which is itself home to some of the best freshwater fishing in the world and a perfect site for this competition.  This three-day event will be a great opportunity to see bass fishing pros using every lure in their tackle box in pursuit of trophy fish and the top prize.  Avid anglers, weekend warriors, and anyone who’s ever dipped a line should be excited about this competition, which will put our world-class bass fishing in the national spotlight,” said Mark Poloncarz, County Executive Erie County

“This tournament’s return to our area is just one more example of the Buffalo Niagara region’s growing reputation as a world-class destination for anglers,” said Buffalo Niagara and Buffalo Niagara Sports Commission President and CEO Patrick Kaler. “The FLW series exemplifies how fishing tournaments and tourism can reel in major returns for the local economy.” For more information regarding the Costa FLW Series tournament in Buffalo visit: https://www.flwfishing.com/tournaments/costa.   

The Buffalo Niagara Sports Commission is a subsidiary of Visit Buffalo Niagara that promotes Buffalo and Erie County nationally and internationally as a premier sports tourism destination for the economic benefit of the community by boosting hotel occupancy and encouraging visitor spending. http://www.visitbuffaloniagara.com/sports-commission/.      

Fishing League Worldwide (“FLW”) is the premier tournament fishing organization that provides unparalleled fishing resources and entertainment to the anglers, sponsors, fans and host communities.  FLW is committed to providing a lifestyle experience that is the best in fishing on and off the water. 

FLW fishing coming to Buffalo, New York, is exciting news covered by several local and regional communication and news networks.  Forrest Fisher Photo

NRA’s Eddie Eagle GunSafe® Program Reaches 30 Million Children

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
This simple Eddie Eagle GunSafe® lesson can save a child’s life.  From the NRA, please PASS IT ON! Courtesy www.EddieEagle.com

FAIRFAX, Va. – The Eddie Eagle GunSafe® Program, NRA’s groundbreaking gun accident prevention course for children, has achieved another milestone by reaching its 30 millionth child.

Created in 1988 by past NRA President Marion P. Hammer, in consultation with elementary school teachers, law enforcement officers and child psychologists, the program provides pre-K through fourth grade children with simple, effective rules to follow should they encounter a firearm in an unsupervised setting: “If you see a gun: STOP! Don’t Touch. Run Away. Tell a Grown-Up.”

Volunteers for the Eddie Eagle program come from diverse backgrounds, but they share a commitment to keeping children safe. Those involved include NRA members, teachers, law enforcement officers and community activists who teach the program, as well as private donors and Friends of NRA volunteers who raise funds to provide the program’s educational materials.

More than 26,000 educators, law enforcement agencies, and civic organizations have taught the program since 1988. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, incidental firearm-related deaths among children in Eddie Eagle’s targeted age group have declined more than 80 percent since the program’s launch.

The Eddie Eagle program has been praised by numerous groups and elected officials, including the Association of American Educators, the Youth Activities Division of the National Safety Council, the National Sheriffs’ Association, the U.S. Department of Justice (through its Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency), and 26 state governors.

Law enforcement partnerships with Eddie Eagle have proven to be very effective. In fact, almost 400 Eddie Eagle mascot costumes are in use by law enforcement officers across the county. NRA also offers free Eddie Eagle materials to any law enforcement agency, educational facility, hospital, or library across the nation.

Funds raised through Friends of NRA and distributed through The NRA Foundation enable schools and police departments to teach the program at little or no cost. The NRA encourages citizens nationwide to participate in heightening gun accident prevention awareness within their local communities.

Schools, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, and others interested in more information about The Eddie Eagle GunSafe® Program, or persons who wish to see if free materials are available in their communities, should email the NRA Community Outreach Department at eddie@nrahq.org or visit www.eddieeagle.com.

About the National Rifle Association: Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America’s oldest civil rights and sportsmen’s group. Five million members strong, NRA continues its mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and is the leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the military. Visit http://www.nra.org.

Fish-Catching Fun in Comfort on Lake Ontario

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Lower Niagara River, Wilson Harbor and Olcott Harbor ALL Provide Easy Access to Big Ocean-sized Fish
  • Boat Trollers and Pier Casters both SCORE on Fall King Salmon
  • Charter Fishing from a Boat is FUN, Affordable and Comfortable

By Forrest Fisher

Whopper steelhead are among usual late summer catches when your lure and feeding time for the fish are in-sync, as they were for Rick Updegrove the last week of August. Forrest Fisher Photo

With water levels slowly returning to normal, late summer on Lake Ontario means fishing fun at nearly every port of angler access, from shore and boat. 

The end of August is the start of peak fishing for King Salmon, but steelhead, lake trout and other cold water species also add to the reel-sizzling, fish-catching fun.

Fishing out of Wilson Harbor with Charter Captain Bob Cinelli aboard his aptly named “White Mule,” a 36-foot Tiara – ask him how that name came to be, was a simple day of fishing pleasure.  The boat is big, bold and beautiful.  Rest room below decks, sleeping compartments…nice.

The fishing rigs aboard “White Mule” are brand new models of time-tested rods, reels, lines and lures.  Cinelli only uses the best and he should know after more than 30 years of fishing experience on the “Big-O.”  Daiwa 4011 hi-speed reels, Heartland rods, Big Jon downriggers, 20-pound test Ande monofilament lines on the downriggers – tipped with Seaguar fluorocarbon leaders, copper line for use with the giant “Otter” planer boards, and the sharpest hooks on his select set of favored spoons. 

Fishing with friends Mike Norris, Rick Updegrove and John Syracuse, we all took turns landing King salmon and steelhead.  Our trip started early at sunrise and we were back to port at noon or so, with plenty of fillets for the smoker. 

The big question for many anglers is how to fish and with what. What color? What spoon? How Deep? Charter captains often have ALL THOSE ANSWERS.  Forrest Fisher Photo

North winds over the previous few days had started a small turnover offshore, but that did not hold up the fishing action with Captain Bob, as he revised the fishing program to find the winning combination to find King Salmon and steelhead.

We started out running lines at 30, 40 and 50 feet down using downriggers with 8-foot sliders, diving planes off copper out 100 feet, all with some variation of green-colored spoons in 125 feet of water.  To find the hot fish, we slowly trolled out to 300 feet and then back shallower, looking for active fish on the feed.  Back and forth Captain Bob moved us around, then we found active steelhead off the planer boards and riggers.

Just like fishing for marlin in the ocean, steelhead in Lake Ontario fly out of the water.  Up, up and away. The fish not only soar above the water, they swim fast to the left, to the right, and then right at you.  When that happens, you need to test your shoulder and arms for durability, and turn the reel handle very fast.

I had a nice steelhead on, it was my turn when the port side Otter board with the copper line jerked free with a jolting, rod-throbbing pulse as it exited the line release.  We all thought it was a King as John hollered, “Forrest, you’re up!”  I vaulted from my seat to take the rod from first mate, Nick, and moved to the padded rear railing on the boat.  A very safe and adequate spot to lean on as the fish was battled back to the boat.

“How much line is out Nick?” I asked. “About 400 feet, just keep reeling, you’re doing just fine.”  Rick joined in the verbal fun, “Feel that burn Forrest?!”  How did he know?  Indeed, my shoulders were on fire.  How could this be? I was being worn out by a less-than-monster fish.  Mike shared, “Hang on to him, it looks like the biggest one so far.”  Easy for him to say.  Then John added, “If you’re tired, I can take the rod.”  I didn’t say anything, but was thinking, “No way John,”…I’m not sure I even heard that. 

Maybe I was just hearing voices in my subconscious state of fish-fighting mindset? 

Nope, on the other hand, these are what fishing friends are for.  Heckling.  Bantering.  Funning.  A few minutes later, my arms really were actually getting numb – 400 feet of copper is a LONG WAY, but we landed the fish just fine.  I turned to grin at “my friends” not saying a word about my frozen arm joints.  It was 65 degrees out and I was forming sweat on my brow.  

Love this fishing!

John added, “Imagine how that guy felt yesterday that caught that 51-inch King, 39 pounds – 3 ounces, to take the lead in the LOC Derby?” He was not making me feel any better.  “Honestly,” I returned, “I cannot imagine that.  I think you might need to share the rod with your friends in that case.”  John grinned and said, “Hey, that’s what fishing friends are for.”  

We were having a great day.

O

Success is a double header with some high-flying steelhead.  L-R: Mike Norris, John Syracuse, Rick Updegrove.  Forrest Fisher Photo

Over the course of the morning trip, we had 12 releases and this was a “SLOW DAY” according to Captain Bob.  My sore shoulders did not agree.  I gotta start working out harder.   We caught lots of “shakers,” the term for young-of-the-year King Salmon that weigh 2-3 pounds.  The future fishery. All were released unharmed.

This fishing trip was fun.  Maybe the best part of such a trip is that when four guys head out to fish this way in total comfort with the latest gear, hottest lures, a captain that can navigate and a first mate that coaches you along the way, and it’s affordable.  

“Leave the dock at sunrise and back by about 12-12:30 with four guys,” Captain Bob said, “Our usual pricing is not expensive at $150 apiece.  $25 more each and you can fish the whole day.”  Unreal.  Affordable fun.  We all chipped in to tip the first mate.

A lot of us spend that much on just one good fishing reel (I do). 

My new view, I’m getting older – save time, save money, fish with a charter.  Not only do you get to fish with the best gear and fish with friends, you go the hottest fishing places at the best times and someone else cleans your catch! Then you  just head home for the freezer with all of your healthy dinner meals for the next few months.  

Need the right sensor gear to catch fish? Sonar, radar, surface water temp, water temp at the ball, boat speed, and a radiotelephone to phone home are all part of the half-day fish trip.  Forrest Fisher Photo

If you’re looking to do this, you can contact Captain Bob Cinelli Sportfishing directly by calling 716-860-5774.  You might also learn a lot about the lake, the fishery, the forage, the predator fish, invasive species, why the fish are able to be caught on certain lures and bait, the Lake Ontario water level, issues and more. 

Captain Cinelli is the chairman of the Niagara County Fishery Advisory Board.  He has the inside line on what’s happening on Lake Ontario and the Lower Niagara River.  And with the hottest fishing.

Fish on! Who’s up?!

The GREATEST Scent-Control Whitetail Apparel Ever Made

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Gain the ScentLok Advantage with Full Season Taktix™ 
  • Every Year We Learn from Successful Hunters: They admit, CONCEALING Human Odor is at Top of List
  • We Found this Affordable, Comfortable, Concealable

Muskegon, MI (August 14, 2017) – Fooling a deer’s eyes and ears can be relatively easy.  Stealth and woodsmanship play critical roles, as does modern camouflage.  His nose, on the other hand, takes more, a lot more.

The most successful hunters employ comprehensive scent-control regimens and follow them with great discipline. Involving more than just sprays and scent-control clothing, an effective scent-control regimen like the ScentLok Seven helps hunters like John Eberhart, from Michigan, experience consistent success.

Eberhart is a whitetail bow-hunting guru and says he has never owned, leased, hunted a relative’s property, or ever paid a dime to hunt anywhere.  Eberhart has never hunted in a managed area, over a food plot, or over bait.  He exclusively hunts state, federal, and free walk-on properties, and knocks on doors for free permission to hunt private properties in a state with some of the most pressured whitetails found anywhere.  Over 53 hunting seasons – the last 20 in ScentLok clothing – Eberhart has connected with 30 Michigan record book bucks.

Other hunters like Don and Kandi Kisky are equally passionate about defeating the four common types of odors that kill hunts. The self-proclaimed Whitetail Freaks harvest massive mature whitetails year after year through meticulous property management, endless scouting and the ScentLok advantage.

HOW MUCH IS YOUR HUNTING CLOTHING HELPING YOU?

In today’s virtual sea of hunting clothing, trendy camouflage only gets a hunter so far.  The new ScentLok Full Season Taktix™ Jacket and Pant for men and women goes beyond comfort and aesthetics.  It is the only hunting apparel to combine three unique performance attributes that help hunters stay comfortable while allowing their quarry to get closer them without scent detection than ever before.

Full Season Taktix features proven Carbon Alloy™ odor adsorption to neutralize the three pillars of human odor.  Next, it utilizes a superhydrophobic NeverWet™ treatment that permanently protects hunters from water and rain without stiff and noisy waterproof membranes.  Inside, Taktix employs advanced internal moisture wicking to keep hunters dry and comfortable.

Full Season Taktix Jacket

In addition to its trifecta of unique features, ScentLok upped the ante with Full Season Taktix to deliver additional touches any whitetail hunter will appreciate.

  • The outer micro tricot fabric is deadly quiet.
  • The low-bulk wrists will not interfere with a bow hunter’s release.
  • The exterior look is a blend of overlay color panels.
  • There are 13 easy-access pockets.
  • There is also a harness opening to keep stinky fall restraint gear enveloped inside the jacket’s Carbon AlloyTM barrier.

Better whitetail-hunting clothing simply does not exist.  This extraordinary new apparel is priced for any hunter at just $149 per piece, is available in four of today’s top camo patterns, and also comes in women’s sizes XS – 2XL and men’s sizes S – 3XL.

Over the course of 25 years in business, ScentLok hunting apparel has been proven deadly in the field by some of the world’s most dedicated hunters.  Ask and receive more from your hunting clothing.  Start hunting with the ScentLok advantage.  See the full line of proven ScentLok products.

About ScentLok: ScentLok Technologies, headquartered in Muskegon, MI, USA, is a leading worldwide designer, marketer and distributor of performance, hunting and casual odor-controlling apparel, footwear and equipment. Founded in 1992 on scientific principles, ScentLok is the only company with access to all scent-controlling technologies including their patented activated carbon technology, which is consistently proven to outperform other technologies tested. ScentLok is a pioneer in the hunting industry, which many credit with creating a market based on the elimination of odors to get closer to big game.

FLW ANNOUNCES 2018 COSTA FLW SERIES SCHEDULE

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Lake Erie – Buffalo, NY – Trophy Smallmouth Bass Fishery, is NEW ADDITION to FLW Northern Series
  • Lake Guntersville will host 2018 Costa FLW Series Championship November

MINNEAPOLIS (Aug. 22, 2017) – Fishing League Worldwide (FLW), the world’s largest tournament-fishing

2018 Costa FLW Series Schedule is Official 

organization, announced today the 2018 Costa FLW Series schedule, which will consist of three events in each of the five divisions – Central, Northern, Southeastern, Southwestern and Western – along with the no-entry-fee Costa FLW Series Championship to be held on Lake Guntersville in Guntersville, Alabama.

The top 40 pros and co-anglers in the final point standings in each division after three qualifying tournaments will advance to the 2018 Costa FLW Series Championship, provided they fished all three qualifiers in a division.

The highest finishing pro from each of the five Costa FLW Series divisions based on final results at the 2018 Costa FLW Series Championship qualify for the Forrest Wood Cup, along with the highest finishing pro from the championship’s international division. A total of six Costa FLW Series pros will advance to the 2019 Forrest Wood Cup, the world championship of professional bass fishing.

Complete rules and entry dates will be announced soon.

2018 Costa FLW Series Season Schedule:

Central Division            Fishery                       City                                         Local Host

  • April 19-21         Table Rock Lake           Branson, Mo.                 ExploreBranson.com
  • June 7-9            Lake Barkley                 Cadiz, Ky.                      Cadiz-Trigg County Tourism      
  • Oct. 11-13         Lake of the Ozarks        Osage Beach, Mo.         Tri-County Lodging Association      

Northern Division

  • June 21-23       Lake Champlain             Plattsburgh, N.Y.           City of Plattsburgh
  • July 26-28         Lake Erie                       Buffalo, N.Y.                  Buffalo Niagara Sports Commission
  • Sept. 6-8           1000 Islands                  Clayton, N.Y.                 Clayton Chamber of Commerce    

Southeastern Division

  • Jan. 4-6            Lake Okeechobee          Okeechobee, Fla.         Okeechobee County Tourism
  • March 1-3         Lake Seminole               Bainbridge, Ga.             Bainbridge CVB
  • April 5-7            Santee Cooper              Summerton, S.C.           Clarendon County CC

Southwestern Division

  • Feb. 15-17        Sam Rayburn Reservoir Jasper, Texas               Jasper-Lake Sam Rayburn CC
  • March 22-24     Grand Lake                    Grove, Okla.                   City of Grove       
  • Oct. 4-6            Fort Gibson Lake            Wagoner, Okla.              Wagoner Area CC        

Western Division

  • Feb. 8-10           Lake Havasu                 Lake Havasu City, Ariz. Lake Havasu City CVB               
  • May 10-12         Clear Lake                     Lakeport, Calif.              Konocti Vista Casino Resort/Marina
  • Sept. 27-29       California Delta              Bethel Island, Calif.        Russo’s Marina   

Costa FLW Series Championship

  • Nov. 1-3            Lake Guntersville           Guntersville, Ala.           Marshall County CVB

The full schedule and details for each fishery can be found at FLWFishing.com.

For complete details and updated information visit FLWFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the Costa FLW Series on Facebook at Facebook.com/FLWFishing and on Twitter at Twitter.com/FLWFishing.

About FLW – FLW is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, providing anglers of all skill levels the opportunity to compete for millions in prize money in 2017 across five tournament circuits. Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, with offices in Minneapolis, FLW conducts more than 258 bass-fishing tournaments annually across the United States and sanctions tournaments in Canada, China, Mexico, South Africa and South Korea. FLW tournament fishing can be seen on the Emmy-nominated “FLW” television show, broadcast to more than 564 million households worldwide, while FLW Bass Fishing magazine delivers cutting-edge tips from top pros. For more information visit FLWFishing.com and follow FLW at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Snapchat.

FireDisc® Cookers Score High Marks with Sportsmen, Tailgaters, Party Folks and in Customer Satisfaction Ratings

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Need a durable camp cooker that folds up to a VERY SMALL SIZE and can do it all for hunters, fishermen, campers or tailgate fun?   Check out FireDisc® Cookers: https://www.firedisccookers.com/products/ to see the manner of set-up, take-down and storage. So simple.
Yet, FireDisc is massively overbuilt, is still light in weight, incredibly easy to use and designed to last for a long time.

It’s perfect for anyone who likes to fish, hunt, camp, RV, tailgate or just recreate outdoors all year around.FireDisc is revolutionizing how hunters cook their camp chow and how fishermen cook shore lunch.  FireDisc is a robust cooking device that was made to travel with you in your truck or boat.  FireDisc seasons like a cast iron skillet producing excellent fish, game and eating anyway you like it. The FireDisc advantage offers compact take-down to a size that will fit in any boat, large or small, sets up easily to work dockside, at a shore lunch or at campside. The unit is powder-coated and is overbuilt. It is heavy duty and built to last. FireDisc will cook virtually everything.
The unit operates on one 16.4 oz. propane canister, fires up fast (no waiting for charcoal or fire), cooks for plenty of people, seasons like a cast iron skillet and cleans up quickly with just water.
Why people love cooking with FireDisc Cookers:
• Portable and easy to haul
• Heats quickly with propane
• Easy to clean with just water
• Great for cooking for large groups
• Perfect for cooking delicate items like fish and vegetables – no grates
• Year-round cooking
• Available in height options: 24” or 36”, shallow or deep
Check out this video: https://youtu.be/omJWFthICuQ.   FireDiscs come in deep or shallow, short or tall, black or red and are available starting at $279.99 at firedisccookers.com and at select outdoor retailers and hardware stores across the country.
How good is a FireDisc® Cooker? The recently released NPS (Net Promoter Score) numbers for FireDisc® Cookers show a high level of customer satisfaction, with a good probability that consumers who bought their products would recommend them to their friends and colleagues. FireDisc Cookers received an NPS score of 88 with a 4.9 out of 5-star rating for 2016.
The Net Promoter Score is an index ranging from -100 to 100 that measures the willingness of customers to recommend a company’s products or services to others. It is used as a proxy for gauging the customer’s overall satisfaction with a company’s product or service and the customer’s loyalty to the brand. It serves as an alternative to traditional customer satisfaction research and claims to be correlated with revenue growth. NPS has been widely adopted with more than two thirds of Fortune 1000 companies using the metric.
The Net Promoter Score is calculated based on responses to a single question: How likely is it that you would recommend our company/product/service to a friend or colleague?
NPS can be as low as −100 (everybody is a detractor) or as high as +100 (everybody is a promoter). An NPS that is positive (i.e., higher than zero) is felt to be good and an NPS of +50 or over is excellent. The FireDisc Cooker NPS score of 88 is among the highest rankings given to any company. Scores for other companies during the same time period included USAA – 80, Costco – 78, Nordstrom – 75, Apple/iPhone – 70, Amazon – 69 and Southwest Airlines – 66. It is a great testimony to the design and quality of FireDisc products and their customer satisfaction.
For more information about “Built to Haul, Cooks it All” FireDisc Cookers, visit their web site at www.firedisccookers.com

DONUTS, HOT COFFEE and WALLEYE AT SUNRISE!

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • The “Great Lakes Experience” EVENT is Exemplary
  • Allowing Lures, Lines, Rigs, Rules and Laws, to Meet Each Other
  • Communication, Great Fishing and Laughter Create EFFECTIVE FUN
  • Summer Fishing for Lake Erie Walleye in Chautauqua County, NY

By Forrest Fisher

Which lures to choose are among key questions that anglers ask each time they head out to Lake Erie for walleye.  This year, some of the solid choices are shown here. Forest Fisher Photo

If there is a language common between anglers and fish, they were talking to each other off Chadwick Bay in Dunkirk, New York, during the Great Lakes Experience earlier in August.  More than 20 charter boats each caught dozens of walleye.  Yes, each.  If we average the catch at 20 fish per boat, that’s about 400 walleyes in less than four hours of fishing.  And when the fish are biting, good things happen, especially when folks from local, state, county and federal positions get together to discuss the recreational fishery and all that goes with it.

That’s what happened during the 9th Annual Great Lakes Experience Fishing Day.  About 100 people from Erie County, Niagara County and Chautauqua County were invited to fish together.  Attendees met at the harbor at about 6:00 a.m. on August 9, 2017, for the annual Tim Horton’s “Meet & Greet” session. Nothing like donuts and hot coffee at sunrise!  We divided into groups from there as we were assigned to captains from the Eastern Lake Erie Charter Boat Association (ELECBA), that provided a unified effort with a simple goal: To catch some fish and share more about reasons why the Lake Erie resource is so important and so priceless.

I was fishing with Captain Jim Skoczylas (Ultimate Adventure Sportfishing (716-796-5372) and first mate, Tom “TJ” Yetzer. They provided guests on board Jim’s 31-foot Tiara, a fun and comfortable time, even in the 4 to 6 foot waves that came up later in the morning. 

 

Ally Pawarski from the Buffalo Sports Commission, shares in the walleye fun and bounty of Lake Erie with a nice 5-pound fish. Forrest Fisher Photo

Skoczylas says, “While the fishing has been really good this year, each day we play it by ear to adapt when we need to change lures and methods.   On some days the fish want crankbaits, other days they want spinner/worm rigs, on finicky days – color matters, but on most days this year, it has not mattered too much what you put down there.  The walleye have been looking to eat and there are many year classes, especially young fish, in our New York, Lake Erie, fishery right now.  Many of us are wondering if there might be a shortage of emerald shiners and smelt – the primary baitfish groups out here, because the fish usually want to eat our lures quite readily.”Between hearing Yetzer holler, “Fish-on, who’s up?” and Tom Hersey, Erie County Commissioner of Environment and Planning say, “Oops, I think I might have lost that one (four times),” there was lots of kidding, laughs and honest fascination with the rigs and processes used to catch fish.” 

Captain Skoczylas found fish about 70 feet down in 80 to 105 feet of water. Downriggers, diving plans and long lead-line rigs were used to catch 26 fish in less than 4 hours of fishing. Forrest Fisher Photo

On the other hand, Ally Pawarski, Sales and Services Manager with the Buffalo Niagara Sports Commission, didn’t lose a single fish and was tuned-in for the whole trip – landing the largest walleye on our boat. 

Dan Rizzo, Commissioner of Erie County Parks, Chris Catanzaro, Project Manager for the Erie County Harbor Development Corporation, along with Patrick Kaler, CEO of the Buffalo Niagara Visitors Bureau, all enjoyed fish-catching and common conversation.  I was happy to be among this dedicated group.

Spinner/Worm rig colors for blades and beads, and hook size, can vary from day to day, but the question can be finding the right one on the day you are fishing. Forrest Fisher Photo

We talked about the fishing goodness, Buffalo Harbor State Park boat ramps, the Central Train Station location, Canalside activities, Buffalo Riverworks, Lake Erie recreational access, kayaks, the health of the fishery, the Coast Guard, the people and the fun of the outdoors on the waterfront.  Add in ideas for marketing and distribution, thoughts of a virtual fish-catching program from Lake Erie on the internet, on-board drone videos for future customers fishing Lake Erie along the New York shoreline, and you can see, conversation was all-inclusive with new ideas.

Running 12 coordinated lines at depths of 70 to 80 feet down in 85 to 105 feet of water, and using all the gear dressed up with spinner/worm rigs and stickbaits, we hooked up with 26 fish in a very short 4 hours on the water.  Diving planes, weighted leadcore lines, downriggers and lots of lures and stickbaits were all part of the presentation mix with a trolling speed of 2.1 mph.  It was a perfect scenario for catching fish and to discuss issues/answers. 

After the fishing, the perfect walleye fish fry lunch was served at the Northern Chautauqua County Conservation Club.  We heard from several speakers, perhaps the most notable was about raw sewage overload on our Great Lakes from Rich Davenport, Director from the Erie County Fish Advisory Board. 

Everyone enjoyed a great time networking about life in the outdoors and the incredible natural resource, Lake Erie, and agreed to work hard together to keep this treasure alive and well into the future. 

There were representatives from the NYSDEC, including Stephen Hurst – Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources Bureau Chief from Albany, Patricia Riexinger recently retired from that same position, Don Einhouse and Jason Robinson, fisheries biologists from the NYSDEC Lake Erie Fisheries Unit, a host of legislative leaders – Senators and Assemblymen, the charter captains and their crews – the proper combination for networking and laughter too.    

Gene Pauszek, outdoor communicator for the Dunkirk Observer, caught this 11.41 pound walleye monster a few days before the Great Lakes Experience in early August.  He was fishing aboard Sassafras Charters with Captain Lance Erhardt and using a borrowed fishing rod and rig to fool this whopper.  Go figure.

This annual event allows local groups to bring certain very real issues to light and provides the potential for discussion on the battlefront of conservation, the outdoors and our Great Lakes resources.  There is nothing like a face-to-face meeting of the minds.  Issues and solutions, in between catching fish and a few grins, become a solid focus.  

Amidst the apparent visual complexity of multiple rods/reels, downriggers, diving planes, planer boards, temperature measurement and trolling gear, and lots of lures, the confidence in the voice of our hosts on board each charter craft was reassuring.  Confidence reigns.

The event was organized by Zen Olow (Northern Chautauqua County Conservation Club), Lance Erhardt (Eastern Lake Erie Charter Boat Association) and Andrew Nixon (Executive Director Chautauqua County CVB), and a supporting cast of dozens. 

Fish on!  Who’s up?! God Bless America.

Mepps Squirrel Tail Recycling Program

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Antigo, WI – Aug. 24, 2017 – Mepps® continues to ask hunters to save their squirrel tails. The tails are used for their hand-tied, dressed hooks of their world-famous, fish-catching lures. They’ve been recycling squirrel tails for over half-a-century.

“Squirrels are good eating and we can reuse their tails for making the world’s #1 lure,” explains Mepps® Communications Director, Josh Schwartz. “Consider harvesting squirrels for the 2016 hunting season.”

Mepps buys fox, black, grey and red squirrel tails and will pay up to 26 cents each for tails, depending on quality and quantity. Plus, the cash value is doubled if the tails are traded for Mepps lures.

Schwartz reminds everyone, “We do not advocate harvesting of squirrels solely for their tails.”

For details on the Squirrel Tail Program, either visit our web site www.mepps.com/squirrels or call 800-713-3474.

For additional information contact:
Josh Schwartz
715.623.7556
jschwartz@mepps.com

 

PHANTOM LURES PARTNERS WITH PRO-TROLL FISHING

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • GAME-CHANGER: EChip with Proven Phantom Musky Baits, will be MORE DEADLY than ever
  • Select Phantom Lures will include Pro-Troll EChip

Ramsey, MN (August 21, 2017) – Phantom Lures, widely known for its design and manufacture of tournament-winning muskie lures and innovative walleye and bass crankbaits, is excited to announce their exclusive partnership with Pro-Troll.
Beginning in 2018, select baits from Phantom Lures will incorporate the Pro-Troll E-Chip. New fresh water styles and finishes will be available to cover any angler who wants to catch trout, salmon, bass, walleye and muskie.
“This exclusive partnership with Pro-Troll is very exciting for all of us at Phantom Lures. It furthers our commitment to growing the Phantom Lures brand,” stated Phantom Lures Co-Owner, Roger Neilson, Jr. “The technology that Pro-Troll offers with their EChip is remarkable and when combined with our Phantom Lures, it is sure to put more fish in the boat.”
The EChip from Pro-Troll is the world’s first microchip designed to go into a bait and replicate the voltage discharged by the nervous system of live bait. It has been scientifically and practically proven to attract more and bigger fish.
“Pro-Troll is pleased to enter into this exclusive partnership with Phantom Lures,” commented Dick Pool, President and Founder of Pro-Troll. “Their baits and brand are well known within the muskie world, and their presence in the walleye and bass world continues to grow. We look forward to integrating our EChip into their popular line of baits.”
The entire line of Phantom Lures can be found at www.phantomlures.com.  In addition, you can view the baits in action on the phantom lures video page.  Here you will find underwater video showing the baits in use, with commentary and feedback from former touring walleye angler and co-owner of Wired2Fish, Scott Glorvigen. Stay connected with Phantom Lures via their social media channels, facebook.com/Phantom-Lures and on Instagram (phantom lures) and via the #BelieveInGhosts and #BIG.

Individually hand-painted, factory tuned, and tank tested, the Phantom Standard MUSKY LURE gives you ultraconsistent, proven, side-to-side wander of the venerable glide bait.  Built torture-tough from a high-impact resin that fishes like maple with a bonus: This Beauty’s got a death pause that kills.  Sink with a  reliable 1′ per second, letting you dissect open water reefs, weediness or sections of emerging weed tops with a surgeon’s precision. A threaded brass receiver securely locks in interchangeable Phantom weights to fine tune sink rates and intrude any zone, making Standard a countdown’s dream for suspended fish. Forrest Fisher Photo

About Phantom Lures: Since 1996, Phantom Lures has built a strong and loyal reputation in the muskie fishing industry by making excellent, custom, quality baits that are used by first time fishermen, guides and tournament anglers.  Our tournament –winning baits produce actions that put trophy fish on your line, leaving you with great pictures and lifelong memories.  For more information about Phantom Lures, visit PhantomLures.com or call 763-951-2902.
About Pro-Troll: Founded in 1978, Pro-Troll Inc. creates and markets innovative fishing and marine products and is a leading developer of technology-driven fishing tackle.  Its proprietary fish attraction device, The patented EChip, replicates in lures the electrical nerve discharge of bait.  Pro-Troll sells its technology and products globally in the U.S., Scandinavia, Germany,

 

Ducks Unlimited reaches Conservation Milestone

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
The Greenhead Mallard is among many beautiful waterfowl that have benefitted from the conservation process and volunteerism of Ducks Unlimited efforts. Joe Forma Photo

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Ducks Unlimited (DU) has achieved a conservation milestone with more than 14 million acres of habitat conserved in North America.  The groundbreaking number is a cumulative accomplishment of the millions of DU volunteers and partners who have been a part of the organization over the past 80 years.

“As we celebrate our 80th anniversary, this milestone is a fitting tribute to the hard work of each and every volunteer, partner and staff member who has contributed to our mission over the past 80 years,” said DU CEO Dale Hall. “If not for their dedication and commitment to conservation, this accomplishment would not have been possible.”

Such conservation gains did not come easily in the face of ongoing threats to waterfowl and their habitats. Loss of wetlands across North America is a challenge DU volunteers take seriously, and their efforts will continue into the future.  Although DU has successfully conserved more than 14 million acres of critical wetlands and associated habitat since our founding in 1937, wetland losses continue.

In the last 50 years alone, the United States has lost more than 17 million acres of wetlands. As human populations grow, demands for clean and plentiful water for use at home and in many agricultural and industrial processes also increase.

Ducks Unlimited – working with partners – provides valuable, on-the-ground solutions that benefit waterfowl populations and maximize water resources through the dynamic natural functions of wetlands.  In addition to providing habitat for waterfowl, wetlands naturally slow and store water to help recharge watersheds and aquifers, improve water quality through biological and physical processes and provide important wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities.

“DU’s policy efforts and the hard work of our volunteers, partners and staff will be more important than ever in the coming years,” said Dr. Tom Moorman, DU’s acting chief conservation officer.  “DU, along with our waterfowl conservation partners at the state, federal and private levels, must continue with the cooperative progress that led to 14 million acres conserved, and expand that effort wherever possible to meet ongoing or new threats to wetlands and waterfowl habitat in North America.”

The groundbreaking number is a perfect example of how hunters and others with a passion for waterfowl and wetlands conservation can come together for a common goal.  DU’s mission has always been to conserve, restore and manage wetlands and associated habitat for North America’s waterfowl, and this milestone is a direct reflection of that statement.

Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 14 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. For more information on our work, visit www.ducks.org.

Children in the Stream Youth Fly Fishing Program

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Free for Kids 10 to 110 Years of Age
  • No Experience necessary
  • Classes Conducted at State University of NY at Fredonia

The Children in the Stream Youth Fly Fishing Program will be starting its eighteenth year of providing weekly free fly tying and fly fishing classes to youth and adults in the western New York region.  The classes will be presented every Tuesday starting August 29, 2017, from 7-8:30 pm at the Costello Community Room (P84) in the new addition to Rockefeller Arts Center at SUNY Fredonia, in Fredonia, NY.

No prior experience is needed and all classes are free. Classes are appropriate for anyone between 10 and 110.

In 1998, Alberto Rey and Mike Conley attended Sportfishing and Aquatic Resource Educational Programming (S.A.R.E.P.) through the Cornell Cooperative. The seminars provided training for teachers and future instructors who would provide educational conservation experiences to children. Shortly afterwards, S.A.R.E.P. Youth Fly Fishing Program was founded after a grant was received from Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency.  The program has continued to grow over the years as enrollment has steadily increased and as the program has provided new services to the community. In 2016, S.A.R.E.P. /4H Youth Fly Fishing Program’s name was changed to Children in the Stream/4H Program.

Children in the Stream is an educational program that provides children with information and experiences related to aquatic resources, conservation, ethics, and fly fishing. Fly fishing has a long history of integrating these elements into the core of the sport. The ethics of the program promotes “catch and release” as well as respect for fellow fisherman and the land on which one fishes. It is our goal to protect the species and the land for future generations. Our program closely ties together the importance of understanding nature with the rewarding act of fly fishing.

Children in the Stream is a volunteer organization that relies on the generosity of the fly fishing industry and of public and private donors. It provides programming to the Boys and Girls Club of Northern Chautauqua County and to middle and high schools in the area. Children in the Stream provides workshops to an average of 350 children a year.

Here are the elements of the program: Weekly Fly Tying and Rod Building Sessions Monthly Fly Fishing Field Trips Canadaway Creek Conservation Project Conservation Days Workshops  Brook Trout Restoration Project Children in the Stream Conference: An Interdisciplinary Fly Fishing Conference

For more information on our efforts you can look at this episode by a national television show, Aqua Kids, who documents the Children in the Stream’s Canadaway Creek Conservation Program and Brook Trout Restoration Program. Here’s are also some recent articles and blogs written about the program and the Children in the Stream Conference; http://buffalonews.com/2016/11/17/bill-hilts-jr-fly-fishing-program-gets-anglers-ages-involved/ http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/outdoors/will-elliott-helping-fly-fishing-take-flight-20150321 http://www.fishhound.com/blog/bringing-brook-trout-back-great-lakes http://www.fishhound.com/blog/when-you-live-and-love-fishing-possible http://www.orvisnews.com/FlyFishing/Children-in-the-Stream-Conference.aspx http://www.orvisnews.com/FlyFishing/Children-in-the-Stream-Conference-a-Success.aspx http://www.flyfishergirl.com/

You can also see recent pictures, movies and information from our recent projects in the blog section of this site. For more information about our home waters, check out our our history of Canadaway Creek link.

If you would like more information on the program please contact me Alberto Rey here or at alberto@albertorey.com or by calling 716-410-7003.

YETI FLW COLLEGE FISHING TOURNAMENT AT CHAUTAUQUA LAKE

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • ADRIAN COLLEGE WINS YETI-FLW NORTHERN CONFERENCE
  • Jarret Martin & Zachary Graham Haul in 20 Bass, Weigh 5 biggest: 16lbs-3oz
  • Presented by Bass Pro Shops
Adrian College anglers, Jarrett Martin and Zachary Graham, both of Gallipolis, Ohio, won the YETI FLW College Fishing Northern Conference tournament at Chautauqua Lake.  FLW Photo

CHAUTAUQUA, N.Y. (July 24, 2017) – The Adrian College duo of Jarrett Martin and Zachary Graham, both of Gallipolis, Ohio, won the YETI FLW College Fishing Northern Conference tournament at Chautauqua Lake.  Presented by Bass Pro Shops, the two-angler team weighed in their five-bass limit at 16 pounds, 3 ounces.   The victory earned the Adrian College Bass Club $2,000 and the team will now advance to compete in the 2018 FLW College Fishing National Championship.

“We were fishing on the north end of the lake,” said Graham, a sophomore, double majoring in environmental studies and geology. “We found a stretch of bank with no docks with a long, rocky flat.  About 40 yards off of the bank, the rock would meet the grass, and we just worked the grass-line all day long.”

“It was really one of the only green grassy areas that we were able to find,” said Martin, a senior majoring in business administration.  “The lake has been sprayed recently, and there was quite a bit of brown, dead grass, but the fish were in the green stuff.”

“Jarrett was throwing a Rebel Pop-R surface plug, off of the front all day and I was throwing a Fluke off of the back,” Graham said. “We doubled up at least seven times.”

The duo estimated they caught around 20 keeper bass throughout the day – with around 13 smallmouth and seven largemouth.  Their five-bass limit at the weigh-in consisted of two smallmouth and three largemouth.

“I think the key for us was the cloud cover,” Martin said. “If it would have been sunny, the fish would have been hiding in the shade, but the way the clouds were, the bass were in the mood to eat all day.  They were extremely active.”

“I think the Pop-R was the key,” Graham added. “We have a lot of confidence in that bait and it produced the two biggest fish of the day for us.”

The Rebel Pop-R has been the judging standard for topwater poppers/chuggers. Visit http://www.rebellures.com/rebel-pop-r-8054 to review all color options. Rebel Lures Photo

The top 10 teams that advanced to the 2018 College Fishing National Championship are:

  •   1st: Adrian College – Jarrett Martin and Zachary Graham, both of Gallipolis, Ohio, five bass, 16-3, $2,400
  •   2nd: Lake Superior State University – Jake Dorony, South Lyon, Mich., and Hunter Scharphorn, Grand Haven, Mich., five bass, 15-6, $1,000
  •   3rd : Adrian College – Nicholas Czajka, Brighton, Mich., and Jack Hippe III, Davison, Mich., five bass, 15-3, $700
  •   4th : Youngstown State University – Jonathan Creed, Niles, Ohio, and Mike Soots, McDonald, Ohio, five bass, 14-13, $500
  •   5th : James Madison University – Blake Miles, Chesterfield, Va., and Jack Goodwyn, Powhatan, Va., five bass, 14-12, $500
  •   6th: Michigan State University – Tyler Andrews, Charlotte, Mich., and Danny Sprague, Hastings, Mich., five bass, 14-8
  •   7th: Pennsylvania State University – Derek Horner, Port Matilda, Pa., and Maurice Hudson, Broomall, Pa., five bass, 14-4
  •   8th: Kutztown University of Pennsylvania – Joe Tini, Archibald, Pa., and Corey Bechtel, Allentown, Pa., five bass, 14-1
  •   9th: Pennsylvania State University – Chris Trianosky, Phoenixville, Pa., and Lou Mocniak, Washington, Pa., five bass, 13-14
  •   10th: West Virginia University – Michael Shughart, Shippensburg, Pa., and Branden Newcome, Ellamore, W.Va., five bass, 13-4

Complete results can be found atFLWFishing.com<https://www.flwfishing.com/results/2017-07-22-chautauqua-lake> .

This YETI FLW College Fishing Northern Conference event at Chautauqua Lake was the second regular-season qualifying tournament for Northern Conference anglers in 2017.  The next YETI FLW College Fishing event will be the Northern Conference regular-season finale, scheduled for Sep. 9 on Lake Erie in Sandusky, Ohio.

YETI FLW College Fishing teams compete in three regular-season qualifying tournaments in one of five conferences – Central, Northern, Southern, Southeastern and Western. The top ten teams from each division’s three regular-season tournaments, along with an additional qualifier for every 10 teams over 100 that compete, along with the top 20 teams from the annual YETI FLW College Fishing Open advance to the 2018 FLW College Fishing National Championship.

College Fishing is free to enter.  All participants must be registered, full-time students at a college, university or community college and members of a college fishing club that is recognized by their school.

For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow College Fishing here:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/FLWFishing

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flwfishing

Visit FLW Fishing at http://www.collegefishing.com to sign up or to start a club at your school.

About FLW – FLW is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, providing anglers of all skill levels the opportunity to compete for millions in prize money in 2017 across five tournament circuits. Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, with offices in Minneapolis, FLW conducts more than 258 bass-fishing tournaments annually across the United States and sanctions tournaments in Canada, China, Mexico, South Africa and South Korea. FLW tournament fishing can be seen on the Emmy-nominated “FLW” television show, broadcast to more than 564 million households worldwide, while FLW Bass Fishing magazine delivers cutting-edge tips from top pros.

For more information visit FLWFishing on-line at: http://www.flwfishing.com/ and also follow FLW here:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/FLWFishing

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/FLWFishing

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/FLWFishing

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/flwfishing

Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/flwofficial

Jay Wallen Wins Hobie Bass Open on Kentucky Lake

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Kentucky Lake, Kentucky
  • Home of Big Bass

The third time was the charm for Jay Wallen of Lexington, Kentucky. After finishing third the past two years, Wallen has battled through to take the Hobie Bass Open win. This was year four of the tournament that took place on Kentucky Lake in Marshall County, Kentucky, June 10-11, 2017.
“I’m so happy I pulled it off so I can go to the Hobie Worlds 7,” commented Jay. “That’s what this whole thing is about. I just couldn’t be happier.”
Wallen went into the final day of the two-day “CPR” (Catch-Photograph-Release) kayak fishing tournament with a very small, one-inch lead. A crowd of anglers was chasing close behind and he felt the pressure. Changing up from day one, he hunted his fish on a ledge farther north, closer to the dam where he’d finished the first day on a furious flurry. However, on the final day the bite proved to be a grinder. He averaged one fish every two hours, but they were good ones.
Wallen’s three-fish daily limit was anchored by a 20-inch largemouth that he said he probably should not have caught. The jig pulled right at the boat, but he got the net under the fish before it hit the water.
“That’s when I knew I had a chance. I didn’t think I had it won, but I had a chance,” he said.
Wallen fished clean, converting all his bites and it proved essential. With just 30 minutes of fishing time left, he culled an 18-incher, giving him a daily total of 56.75 inches. It was just enough. His two-day total of 115.5 inches narrowly beat his closest challenger.
“The biggest thing about this tournament is you compete against your peers and some of the best kayak anglers out there,” Wallen went on to say. “That’s what makes it special. You do this in front of all your peers and a lot of them are happy for you. We’re all for the most part, friends.”
The win earned Wallen a check for $4,000, but it was the trip to the Hobie Fishing World Championship 7 that has him most excited. The World’s destination is expected to be announced in July. Wallen is ready, wherever it winds up. “You could put it on the moon for all I care! I’m ready to go, to represent team USA,” he said.
Joshua Stewart of Waverly, Tennessee nearly matched Wallen inch-for-inch, but ultimately finished second with a total of 114.25 inches. He fished a jig in shallow water in the New Johnsonville area of Kentucky Lake. Stewart earned $2,500 and an invitation to the Hobie Fishing Worlds 7. “This is the biggest one, the most meaningful finish of my kayak fishing career,” he said.
Drew Russell of Louisville, Kentucky, rounded out the top three. He earned $1,700. “I was shooting for a top ten finish, so I’m thrilled with third. I’ll be back. We’ll get it next year,” he said of just missing the Hobie Worlds. Russell fished worms and jigs on ledges and points.
The Hobie Bass Open paid out to 12th place. There is always a 100% pay out of angler entry fees in this competition. 115 anglers fished the adult division.
The youth division was won by Jaxton Orr, who compiled an impressive two-day total of 102.25 inches. He was followed by Will Stumbo (95.5 inches) and Cole Kleffman (83.75 inches)
Kentucky Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau and Hobie Worldwide sponsored the 1st place winner to attend the Hobie Worlds. Additional sponsors included lodging host Kentucky Lake Dam Village State Resort Park, the host city of Calvert, Hobie Polarized, Lowrance, YakAttack, Bassin’ Magazine, RAM Mounts, St. Croix, Daiwa, Power-Pole, Mustad and Gerber.
This year there are two new US and Canadian qualifying events for Hobie Fishing World Championship 7: the Shasta Bass Kayak Classic and the 2nd Annual IKE Foundation Celebrity Pro Am Tournament Kayak Division hosted by Hobie’s own Mike “Ike” Iaconelli. Ike’s event will be special. It will be a star-studded occasion contested on the non-tidal sections of the Delaware River and includes dinner on the illustrious battleship, USS New Jersey.
The full Hobie Fishing Worlds “7” North American qualifying event schedule is as follows:
1) The Shasta Bass Kayak Classic, March 25-26 – 1 qualifying spot
2) The Jamaica Bay Kayak Fishing Classic, May 18-21 – 1 qualifying spot
3) The Hobie Bass Open, June 9-11 – 2 qualifying spots
4) The Border City Classic, June 24-25 – 2 qualifying spots
5) The 2nd Annual IKE Foundation Celebrity Pro Am Tournament Kayak Division, July 7-8 – 1 qualifying spot
Since 1950, Hobie has been in the business of shaping a unique lifestyle based around fun, water, and innovative quality products. From their worldwide headquarters in Oceanside, California, Hobie Cat Company manufactures, distributes, and markets an impressive collection of eco-sensitive watercraft, with subsidiaries; Hobie Cat Australasia, in Huskisson, NSW, Australia and Hobie Cat Europe, in Toulon, France and independent distributors; Hobie Kayak Europe and Hobie Cat Brasil. These products include an ever-expanding line of recreation and racing sailboats, pedal-driven and paddle sit-on-top recreation and fishing kayaks, inflatable kayaks, fishing boats, surfboards, stand-up paddleboards and the new Hobie Mirage Eclipse™ Standup pedalboards, plus a complementary array of parts and accessories. www.hobiecat.com
For more info: Contact Ingrid Niehaus, (949) 499-2225, iniehaus@hobiecat.com

I Met a Polar Bear, Face-to-Face! Thanks to Johnny Morris, YOU CAN TOO

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium OPENS Sep, 21, 2017
  • Will be Largest, most interactive, dynamic Fish and Wildlife “Experience” in the World.
  • Located next to Bass Pro Shops National Headquarters in Springfield, Missouri.
  • Will also be the New Home for BASS FISHING HALL OF FAME

By Forrest Fisher

The hair on my arm shot up as if I had just walked into a static field of electricity. My heart rate quickened.  The face of the bear was powerful and profound. The moment was unforgettable. It was extraordinary.  It was sacred and it was full of Polar Bear ambition.  It was striking.

Image is courtesy of Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium

The largest, most immersive fish and wildlife attraction in the world offers a video that did that to me! Visit: https://youtu.be/QnG5tf_Pp3I.

 

The Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Aquarium will celebrate its grand opening on Sep. 21, 2017.  Located in Springfield, Missouri, the 320,000 square foot structure will feature exhibits that manage to create new moments of introduction to conservation, with a focus on providing education and knowledge of wildlife, fish and sea creatures for all that visit.

Wonders of Wildlife will feature a 1.5-million-gallon aquarium adventure and will showcase 35,000 live fish, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and birds, as well as more than 70,000 square feet of immersive wildlife galleries and dioramas.  Plus, more than a mile of immersive trails and exhibits.

Wonders of Wildlife will also offer another giant reason to visit.  Officials from the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame and noted conservationist, Johnny Morris, recently announced that Wonders of Wildlife will also provide a new, permanent home for the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame.

The Bass Fishing Hall of Fame will honor bass fishing legends and was developed in partnership with the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.), the exhibit includes a fascinating collection of artifacts and memorabilia, including authentic rods and reels, antique lures and historical photos.  More than 60 Hall of Fame members will be featured including Bill Dance, Jimmy Houston, Roland Martin, Johnny Morris, Ray Scott, President George H.W. Bush and many others. Several artifacts date back to the early days of B.A.S.S. tournaments in the 1960s, including the scale used to weigh record catches and the first BASSMASTER Classic victory trophy.

Image is courtesy of Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium

“To be part of a transformational project like Wonders of Wildlife and share the story of bass fishing with generations of future visitors is a dream come true,” said Donald Howell, president of the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame board of directors. “There is no better location to honor the individuals that have played a crucial role in bass fishing. Visitors will be blown away by all that Wonders of Wildlife encompasses, and we’re grateful to Johnny Morris for his partnership and bringing this vision to life in such compelling fashion.”

The site will offer extraordinary experience for visitors with a collection of exhibits and galleries that showcase national conservation organizations within a single “must-see” destination experience, sharing the story of hunters and anglers conserving wildlife and the outdoors.

Other partner galleries include The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) Fishing Hall of Fame, the Boone and Crockett Club’s National Collection of Heads and Horns, the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum, the National Archery Hall of Fame and many others.

“Our mission is to establish a world-class destination that celebrates people who hunt, fish, and act as stewards of the land and water,” said Johnny Morris, founder and CEO of Bass Pro Shops, a conservationist and the visionary behind the Wonders of Wildlife. “There are so many notable hunters and anglers that have played an important role in the conservation of our precious natural resources and habitats.  We are honored to welcome the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame to help further enrich that story for our visitors.”

Founded in 2000, the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to all anglers, manufacturers and members of the media who further the sport of bass fishing.  Honorees include notable contributors to the sport who elevate it to the professional level and lesser-known supporters that have and continue to sustain bass fishing, both honoring the past and looking to the future.

While previous plans called for a stand-alone location in Alabama, organizers recognized the opportunity to reach a far larger audience by partnering with Wonders of Wildlife.

For more information, visit www.wondersofwildlife.org.  For information about the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame, visit www.bassfishinghof.com.

 

Learn Elk Hunting: Archery Details, Step-by-Step

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
Bugle Magazine is a hunter’s bi-monthly resource package, with tips, advice, gear know-how and humble stories from successful experts. Photo Courtesy of RMEF

By Forrest Fisher

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) has gone beyond the norm to help people everywhere learn more about conservation and hunting, and why hunting is so important to conservation.

Just having returned from a visit to Medora, North Dakota, and the National Park that Teddy Roosevelt created there, I am sure that our late President Roosevelt would be so very proud of the dedicated folks at the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

I joined RMEF this past year and keep asking myself why I took so long to find RMEF, but at least now, I’m a member and their BUGLE magazine is not just a magazine, it is a learning tool.  In this latest issue (Jul/Aug 2017) of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation BUGLE, story author – Kurt Cox,  shares intimate, in-depth details of those many things a first-time archery elk hunter might be wondering about.  Veteran hunters too, can learn from Kurt’s tales of hands-on truth in easy-to-read lessons and descriptions.

He describes his manner of calling, his movement in trailing an Elk for a shot opportunity and how he survived through his consumption of spring water, wild berry picking and frosty overnight chills. All this amidst the wonder of the visual expanse of mountain peaks, dark timber and an internal impulse to use cow calls. All hunters can learn from his shared experiences in this story.

Cox shares his hope and wonder, all the while looking for that perfect spot that he might send his arrow and put some meat in the family freezer.  Then after much effort, significant effort, there is a cow, then a bull, then an arrow shot and a score.  We learn about ethics here too, since Cox takes a second arrow shot and a third too.  There is explanation for the harvest in this manner, clarification that hunters country-wide need to know more about.

Check out this story, then read much more in this ARCHERY ISSUE of BUGLE Magazine, in the nearly 40-page special edition section.  Learn about cows and bulls, elk habits, use of camo, scent, sound, the excitement, the right gear, making the right noises, the reality of the experience, and perhaps you will find in you, like me, the inspiration to travel thousands of miles to hunt an elk.

Hunting for elk is an escape for some, but it is an inspiration for all hunters.

The mission of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is to insure the future of elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage.  I came late to embrace this RMEF group – I’m from the east, my poor excuse, but I’m here to pass the word to all of my hunter friends, especially bowhunter colleagues, to join up with RMEF and start the complete learning of how to better yourself for your next hunt.

What you learn from the BUGLE magazine will help make you a better hunter every time you step into the world of the woods.

Visit www.rmef.org and sign up soon.  After just one or two issues, you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about.  Reading this magazine is an adventure in learning.  Don’t delay. Remember, hunting is conservation.

 

New Speed-Load Browning Tactical Knife

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Handy hand-hold knife handle
  • Four blade inserts
  • Any common utility knife blade will fit  as a replacement blade!
  • Priced under $40

A Speed Load Tactical model knife has been introduced by Browning for 2017.  The new knife features a folding liner lock blade with four replaceable 420J2 stainless steel razor blade inserts.  The four inserts include one partially serrated drop point, one modified tanto, one modified sheepsfoot and one standard utility blade.  

A handy feature of the Speed Load Tactical knife is that it will accept any replacement blade for a common utility knife, easily purchased at most hardware stores.

The handle is sculpted black G-10 scales with anti-skid grooves on rear of handle. The knife also features a steel pocket clip, thumb stud and rugged flapped nylon belt sheath with polymer hard case insert for storing extra blades.

Overall length is 7-5/8” and blade length is 3-1/4”. Suggested Retail, $39.99.

For more information on Browning products, please visit the website at www.browning.com.

BLACK BEARS ACTIVE in New York State DIX MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Black bears have been active stealing food.
  • Campers, hikers, and rock climbers om alert in two locations

Campers and hikers are encouraged to keep all food, toiletries, and garbage in a bear resistant canister to avoid attracting black bears.

Campers are also advised to avoid cooking and eating after dark. Prepare and eat food away from the tent site.

If approached by a bear, do not give it food. Make noise and try to scare it away. Call the DEC Regional Wildlife Office at 518-897-1291 to report encounters with bears.

Hikers and campers may also want to consider carrying bear spray as a precautionary measure for close encounters. If you do so please read the instructions carefully before setting out on the trail and be sure to follow the instructions if you use the spray.

Gill Brook

Bears have approached hikers and campers in the area around Gill Brook, Indian Pass, Mt. Colvin, Elk Pass, and Nippletop. These bears are approaching closely in an attempt to intimidate people into giving them food. DEC warns hikers and campers not to reward bears by dropping packs or otherwise providing them with food.

DEC recently captured and euthanized the most aggressive of the bears. A bear with one purple ear tag and one green ear tag had been approaching numerous hikers and campers very closely and not backing down.

Another bear with one red ear tag has been a reported problem but has not behaved as aggressively has been encountered less frequently.

Chapel Pond

Other bears have been stealing food from campers and rock climbers in the area around Chapel Pond, including the Beer Walls. Campers are hikers are encouraged to keep all food, toiletries, and garbage in a bear resistant canister or out of sight in motor vehicles.

Rock climbers should rack up at their vehicle, leave all food in the vehicle, or carry any food with you as you climb. Do not leave packs on the ground for bears to destroy.

DEC has temporarily closed one of the campsites at the Chapel Pond Outlet while it attempts to capture the bears. Captured bears will be given unique colored ear tags, hazed, and released. 

For more info, click here: Prevent human bear conflicts.

Lake Erie-Lake Ontario-Niagara River “On-Line” Fishing & Vacation Map is FREE

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Integrated Map Provides Fish Locations, Shore Fishing Access, Boat Access
  • Depth Contours ZERO-IN on Hotspot Fishing Locations
  • Bait Shops, Marina Locations, Shipwrecks, ALL HERE…ALL FREE
Depth Contours as well as on-shore landmarks for boater access, shore fishing, restaurants and marina locations are included for Niagara County, Erie County and Chautauqua County waterway areas.  The website map link and info is free. 

By Forrest Fisher

There is a NEW interactive, online, Western New York Hotspot Fishing Map application that is yours FREE at this link:  https://wnyfishing.mrf.com.

The regional website map has been designed for everyone, including for cellphone and laptop use.  It is the perfect “get-it-now” reference tool for many user groups.  Boaters, anglers, scuba divers, vacationers and many other groups, family fishing groups, now have good waterway reference map.  Need to research waterway areas of the Greater Niagara Region of New York State BEFORE the trip?  Here is your resource.

The map spotlights lake depth contours, boating access points, marinas, shore fishing sites, sunken wrecks, fish species locations, bait shops, information sources, dining establishments and give all that to the user with GPS coordinates.  Erie, Niagara and Chautauqua counties offer some of the best freshwater sportfishing the world has ever seen!

World class walleye, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, musky, trout, salmon, all here, and many species of panfish.  Nearly everything an avid fisherman would ever want.  Carp and Channel Catfish too.

The Greater Niagara Region has established a reputation that boasts excellence in sportfishing, boating, kayaking, and outdoor on-the-water recreation.  Hire a charter, bring your own boat or fish from shore, the new regional map website will be useful for everyone who looks to quench a hungry angling appetite.

The website map is perfect for the outdoor enthusiast and for families looking to get back to finding the family fun of the outdoors through fishing and boating.  There are many other outdoor attractions, state and county parks, hiking paths, bird-watching opportunities (the Niagara River Corridor is internationally recognized as an important bird area), hunting options and more.  There are cultural, historical and recreational highlights from Lewiston in Niagara County, to Buffalo in Erie County and to Jamestown in Chautauqua County.  The new website and map app offers access to outdoor information and adds value for visitors and residents alike.

The area below Dunkirk, NY, and Barcelona Harbor, in Westfield, NY, is the “HOT WALLEYE ZONE”. Here is the 1st look-see from a free fishing map link that all anglers can enjoy for the very first time at no charge.

The website (https://wnyfishing.mrf.com) offers information to get you started and headed in the right direction, from charter listings to marina information; from shore fishing spots to license information. Unfortunately, it can’t help you set the hook and reel the fish in!

Greater Niagara – You’ll “fall for us” all over again reel soon!

Lake Erie Fishing Hotline, (716) 855-FISH, www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/, fishhotlines.html

Niagara Co. Fishing Hotline, (877) FALLS-US, www.niagarafallsusa.com

This map was made possible through the funding of Erie and Niagara Counties. It was prepared cooperatively between Erie and Niagara County’s respective Sportfishing Promotion Programs, with assistance from the Erie and Niagara County Fisheries Advisory Boards. Additional maps may be obtained by calling: Buffalo-Niagara CVB at 800-BUFFALO or Niagara Tourism and Convention Corp. at 877-FALLS US.

Smiley Sakakawea Walleye – Fishing a Canyon Reservoir

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Captain Jeremy Olsen shares secrets for fast walleye fun on Lake Sakakawea in early July.

  • SLOW-TROLL Tricks are Deadly on Walleye Waters
  • Lake Sakakawea, North Dakota, offers Hands-On Learning
  • Bring a Camera: Canyon Colors and Walleye Go Good Together
Delicious, tasty walleye are a top goal for anglers fishing everywhere, but on Lake Sakakawea, the pristine clean water is chilly all year long and the walleye taste better than most anywhere. Forrest Fisher Photo.

By Forrest Fisher

Wanna catch walleye?  Know the two rules that apply everywhere.  Rule #1: Catching fish is fun.  Rule #2: Fishing with a professional guide that understands fish movement helps to make Rule #1 possible.  You can do it on your own later.

No matter where you go, catching quality walleye as a target species fish is the primary objective for many anglers.  This story is proof that Rule #2 is a good money-saving idea.

Coincidentally, my wife and I were vacationing in North Dakota near Teddy Roosevelt National Park and my better half whispered in my ear, “You should go fishing at least one day while we are here – Lake Sakakawea is just up the road, I’ll go souvenir shopping.” Such a deal.  I could not say no.

So I asked Kelly Sorge what people fish for.  The “always cheerful” proprietor at Indian Hills Resort (http://www.fishindianhills.com/) said, “Crappie, northern pike, bass, trout and walleye – we have all those species here, but most folks fish for walleye.  They like to eat them cooked over a campfire here.  The walleye are so pure and so tasty from Sakakawea.”  That settled it.

I rushed for my cellphone to make the call to Liebel’s Guide Service.  Capt. Jeremy Olsen called me back a short while later to set up time and departure to fish this beautiful Little Missouri River reservoir – it is pristine, with millions of years of erosion providing colorful rocky backdrops on the canyon walls.

Capt. Jeremy Olsen is a top fishing guide that will teach you how to have fun catching fish. Imagine catching 17 walleye in less than 90 minutes! Forrest Fisher Photo

Lake Sakakawea in central North Dakota was created for flood control on the Missouri River by the Garrison Dam.  The average width of the lake is 2-3 miles, but it is about 14 miles wide at the widest point, heavy with clean, deep water, shallow water, many undulating bay backwaters, drop-offs, flats, and a beautiful view of colorful mountain walls – hundreds of millions of years old, that form the gorge that creates this waterway.  In short, it is breathtaking!

We met at 7 a.m. and when I saw his new boat, I was thrilled, motivated and EAGER to set foot on the 21-foot Lund, 219-Pro-V, with a 350 horsepower Mercury Verado.  Cost: $81,000, I asked.  Cost of my Charter: $350.  A win-win for any angler.  The new Lund Pro-V fishing boats are special: quiet, safe, powerful, live well, many other features.  It’s all there on this boat.

We left the dock at 7:15 a.m., took 15 minutes to motor 10 miles to a chosen fishing spot (it didn’t take long at 62 mph), set up our lines on lightweight Phenix casting rods (http://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Phenix_Rods/catpage-PHENIX.html).  At 7:40 a.m., Capt. Jeremy had the fish figured out and we landed our first walleye.   By 9:15 a.m., we had landed 17 walleye!  Could we call this a great day?  No way, it was an insurmountable day!

It will be a day that I would never forget as a walleye angler.  Indeed, vacations and special fishing moments are about making special memories.   I have no doubt that Capt. Jeremy could do this again.

While I’ll admit, my standards are higher than the average – I expect to catch lots of walleye and often, to beat the usual catch rate, but who would have ever guessed this catch rate of walleye could even occur in wild waters in the middle of summer?  Not me.

Capt. Jeremy is an expert.  He knows the secrets to understanding how fish move, when they move, forage location, wind and eddy current effects, and how to attract fish to invoke a strike.  For this day, he choose Smiley Blade attractors and worms.  The Smiley Blades offer slow rotating action when tied in front of a 3-foot fluorocarbon leader that has two to four beads in front of a single 1/0 hook.  In actual use, this action is death to walleye on Lake Sakakawea.  I discovered after getting home to Lake Erie, it is deadly anywhere else that walleye swim too.  The blades turn with as little as 0.4 mph forward speed because they are made from lightweight Mylar.  Capt. Jeremy buys the blades separate and custom-makes the Smiley Blade rigs with his kids, adding a dash of special magic, I’m sure.

We attached the Smiley Rig leaders to a 1-1/4 ounce wire/bottom-bouncer and set the MinnKota Ulterra bow motor to troll at about 0.6 mph.  Three or four minutes later, presto!  Fish on!  Walleye after walleye came into the boat.  We released all the smaller fish as they were caught.

If you’re out that way, you can contact Capt. Jeremy through Lieber’s Guide Service at http://www.liebelsguideservice.com/.  He will travel to many other waters too, including Montana.

Of course, understanding where to drop lines (location), why to drop where we did (bait movement and water clarity), and how fast to go, are among reasons why we ask a charter captain to take us fishing when we go to a new lake.  A charter captain fishes many more times than we do and it is always a learning experience.

This was new water for me, I’m a Lake Erie walleye fisherman, fishing Lake Sakakawea was quite different.  To do it again, I think I’d contact Capt. Jeremy again and leave my boat home.  The trip was safe, fast, affordable and fun.  It doesn’t get any better than that.

To learn more about Smiley Blades, a video with details about rigging, design, styles and colors is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoO7MxmD-rA.

Accommodations: You can camp at Indian Hills for just $20/night.  There is a boat launch, convenience store, fish-cleaning station and running potable water at several spots.  If regular tenting is too primitive for you, there is one cabin there called “Peacepipe” that accommodates 6 people with bunks, A/C, sink and kitchen for $90/night.  At Peacepipe, you and your family can camp in comfort, and while this style camping cabin has no shower or toilet inside of it, the conveniences are an easy 200’ walk to the shower house.  There is a built-in, sit-down table that seats four, the kitchen counter includes a 2-burner hot plate, small refrigerator and wash basin (potable water is just outside) with drain.  You only need to provide your own sleeping bag or bedding.  Outside you’ll find a picnic table and fire ring, and exterior electrical outlets.  We stayed here and it was great.  Above that, they offer condo’s and lodge rooms too.  Choices are what life in the outdoor lane is all about.  The degree of “outdoorism” that you choose is available here.  My kind of place (http://www.fishindianhills.com/).

For additional general information on Lake Sakakawea and other North Dakota sites to see, visit http://www.ndtourism.com/blog/lesson-about-lake-sakakawea.

This may have been one of the most fun, most learning trips I have ever had the pleasure to experience. One last word, I love North Dakota!  My sweetheart of 48 years and I will be back soon.

Walk the Dog with a Frog!

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Built-in “Walk-the-Dog” Action
  • 2-1/2 inches, 9/16 oz, 16 colors
  • Extra-wide Premium VMC® double hook
The Terminator Popping Frog is one topwater frog lure finally made to cast well, endure vicious strikes with strong design in the hook tie and extra-wide VMC hook, to bring the big bass to your live well. Forrest Fisher Photo

By Forrest Fisher

YOUR TOPWATER FROG CHECKLIST:

  1. Like to fish for bass in the summertime?  Topwater action can be the most exciting! CHECK
  2. The Terminator Popping Frog is designed for flawless, big, fish-catching fun.  Many crankbaits have their action built in by design of the lip and weight placement, why not the same on a frog.  Now, YES, we have built-in action on a topwater frog too.  The Terminator Popping Frog provides a cupped face to create a loud, strong pop, it will drive fish crazy, even from deep below. CHECK

                                                                               Bass-catching happiness! Forrest Fisher Photo
  3. The weight is positioned to allow long, perfect casts and the extra-wide hook gap converts strikes into hook sets.  The extra-soft body compresses easily to expose those hooks.  CHECK
  4. The round rubber lug tentacles articulate life-like action.  Even the line tie is extra-duty and is welded for no line-wiggle escapes during the hook set.  The Terminator Popping Frog is a unique bass-catching tool for all serious Bass anglers.  CHECK
  5. The Model 25 is the only model made at this time, but it is a perfect size at 2-1/2” in length and 9/16 oz. Perfect.  CHECK
  6. The color on the right is my favorite “Lime Leopard” color, but there are 16 colors.  The lure is a topwater fish killer that allows every angler to fish effectively with the effortless walking and/or popping action built into this topwater frog lure. CHECK
  7. The premium VMC® double hook allows you to hook up with new bass friends as you “Walk the dog with a frog!” FISH-ON!

Get one. CHECK!

Cost?  Under $10. Check colors and supply: http://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Terminator_Walking_Frog/descpage-TWFG.html?gclid=CIzzjd6egdUCFcKKswodEigFdw.

 

 

Pebble Mine – Does Anyone Hear the People of Alaska?

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Bristol Bay is the Spawning Home for FIVE SPECIES of SALMON
  • Pebble Mine Could Destroy the Bristol Bay Fishery
  • Many Groups, based on Science/data, OPPOSE Pebble Mine
  • Review the Details

By Forrest Fisher

The author and his partner share in the Alaskan resource of healthy, uncontaminated, Coho Salmon during the annual September run. The Pebble Mine could jeopardize this fishery. Forrest Fisher Photo

Not far from Anchorage, Alaska, generations of people among multiple nations of the world have relied on the fishery resources of Bristol Bay.  The Pebble Mine project has been a virtual threat for nearly ten years now.  For investors, it looks good on paper, but the potential for problems on the project might also destroy the most unique and most valuable salmon spawning fishery resource in the entire world – with value to healthy human life.  Is that worth the risk of mining?  Would you agree that outflow of residual pollutants and possible uncontained, unplanned leakage of mining fluids and related contaminants into the effluent of this unique fishery worth any risk at all?  Would we want to risk destroying the spawning beds for five species of Alaskan salmon?  Not me.  Not you, I hope.

From the records of Alaska as referenced in http://www.savebristolbay.org/people (please check the link), Alaska ranks ninth among seafood-producing nations in the world. Forty-two percent of the world’s harvest of wild salmon and 80 percent of the production of high-value wild salmon species such as sockeye, king, and coho salmon, come from Alaska waters.

Salmon is the most valuable commercial fish managed by the state of Alaska and Bristol Bay is Alaska’s richest commercial fishery. In Bristol Bay alone, the 2008 harvest of all salmon species was approximately 29 million fish, and the value of the 2008 commercial catch topped $113 million.

Bristol Bay has long been recognized as a vital contributor to Alaska’s commercial fishing economy, so much so that in 1972 the Alaska legislature determined that it was in the best interest of the state to establish the Bristol Bay Fisheries Reserve. This protected Bristol Bay fisheries’ longstanding and valuable commercial, subsistence, and sport fishing from oil and gas development.

However, it does not protect against hard rock mining operations like Pebble Mine.

All five species of Pacific salmon return to Bristol Bay to spawn in its rivers, including pink, chum, sockeye, coho and king. The waters of the region have long been an integral part of the state and local economies, providing thousands of sustainable jobs to Alaskans for generations.

Commercial fishing-related jobs account for nearly 75 percent of local employment. The annual payroll for fish and wildlife-related employment totals $175 million2. Commercial fishing and the associated canneries have been the major industries in the area for many decades. In 2009 residents marked the 125th anniversary of commercial fishing in Bristol Bay.   The commercial fisheries management area of Bristol Bay includes eight major river systems: Naknek, Kvichak, Egegig, Ugashik, Wood, Nushagak, Igushik and Togiak.

The Kvichak River, which runs from Lake Iliamna (the largest freshwater body in Alaska) to Bristol Bay, is home to the single largest salmon run on the planet. The Nushagak River hosts the largest king salmon run in Alaska.

Annual commercial catches between 1984 and 2003 averaged nearly 24 million sockeye salmon; 69,000 chinook; 971,000 chum; 133,000 coho and 593,000 pink.  Bristol Bay’s productive salmon runs are remarkable even by Alaska’s standards, where the next largest commercial sockeye salmon run in 2008 was 4.15 million in the Alaska Peninsula/Aleutian Islands region.

Every year fish return to Bristol Bay in astounding numbers, largely due to the sound, scientific management of state and federal agencies.

For instance, in 2008 the Bristol Bay sockeye salmon run produced approximately 42 million fish National Geographic listed Alaska as one of only three well-managed fisheries in the world, the others being Iceland and New Zealand. The forecast for 2016 season is expected to be another banner year, at roughly 46 million.

It seems common sense that we as an educated people of science and logic for the better of all peoples, would need and want to protect this nature resource.  With its astounding beauty and prolific salmon runs, Bristol Bay is a place of international importance.

The future of this fishery would appear to be threatened by the proposed Pebble mine as well as hard rock mining on adjacent state and federal land.

As this seems common to basic understanding, the Bristol Bay watershed must be put off-limits to Pebble and other large-scale mining projects.

The Alaska Trout Unlimited Program works to protect and restore wild salmon and trout populations throughout Alaska.  Through sound scientific data, strong grassroots outreach and advocacy, and hands-on involvement in conservation projects Alaska TU protects some of the most prized rivers on the planet, works to restore those that need some help, and engages the next generation of coldwater stewards in Alaska’s natural heritage.  Alaska TU works with a unique and broad coalition of Alaskan’s to protect Bristol Bay.  To reach Alaska TU at their Alaska Office, write Alaska TU, 3105 Lakeshore Drive, Anchorage, AK 99517, (907) 770-1776.  If you support this effort Alaska TU encourages you to donate at this link: https://gifts.tumembership.org/donate/bristolbay. 

Bristol Bay is a sacred trust that we as “modern man” must all work to protect well into the future.

For more information, visit: http://www.stoppebblemine.org/.  For a No Pebble Mine sticker, visit: http://www.cafepress.com/mf/69574663/nopebblemine-sticker-3x3_sticker?productId=879617887.

Mount Rushmore – Independence Day Glory!

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
The entrance to the Mount Rushmore National Memorial offers clear signage and directions during an initial view of the grandeur of this sacred place.  Forrest Fisher Photo

By Forrest Fisher
Mount Rushmore is no ordinary mountain.  Visiting this sacred place in the Black Hills of South Dakota has been on our “bucket list” for a long time.  As we approached from the north driving down Highway 85, the illusion of darkness rising on the horizon – the Black Hills in the distance, was clear and beautiful. “There they are,” said my excited best friend and wife of 48 years. “They’re so awesome, aren’t they?” Added my granddaughter, Kiley Rose, a college student of environmental science and forestry, and our mentor for all things nature, especially trees and birds.

“They say the Black Hills look dark because of all the tall pine trees that grow here in this part of South Dakota,” Kiley shared. “And this area is rich in birds and animals too.” As we travelled through Rapid City and up Highway 16 (Mount Rushmore Road) on the mountain toward Mount Rushmore, there were large signs on the roadway directing where to turn, park and enjoy the view.

The views from just about anywhere on this National Monument Memorial property are spectacular. The scenes are permanently imprinted to memory, though I also took hundreds of pictures to share with family and friends back home in western New York.

The “Avenue of Flags” offers a lofted flag of every state in the United States, a symbol for freedom and citizenship as a democratic government representing the freedom of all people in this country. Forrest Fisher Photo

The sculptured faces of four of our former great presidents are carved high above in the granite stone of this majestic mountain.  Chosen by sculptor, Gutzon Borglum, visitors have a clear, spectacular image of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln as viewed left to right. For several of the people I spoke with, many simply gazing with a prolonged stare at the figures – the predominant feature of these four American leaders seems to be their eyes.

One man from Texas said, “You know something, I think their eyes offer us understanding and humility.” Another visitor overheard the onset of our discussion and shared, “I agree, their eyes draw my attention almost immediately, as if to invite discussion among each of them.” Another nearby person, a foreign lady visitor from Japan, smiled and leaned our way to say, “I think their eyes create a sense of trust, so I agree with you both, but I also think their noses are predominant.” Instantly, we all smiled at that and I brought up a short story about “smell and scent” to share with this amicable threesome.

I added, “When my family initially came up to visit the monument, we drove past the official entrance and down the hill toward the presidential “side view” of George Washington. My granddaughter and I decided to hike around the parking area access paths and with her knowledge of trees, she went directly to one of the pine trees, put her nose to the tree, smiled, and called me over.” She said, “Can you smell this and tell me what you think this bark smells like, Dziadz?” So I did and said, “It smells like vanilla.” “Yes!” She exclaimed. “This is a Ponderosa Pine tree, this odor is their distinguishing element!”

When you get up close to the bark itself, Ponderosa Pines smell like vanilla extract – something I learned from my granddaughter who is majoring in environmental science.  We never stop learning! Forrest Fisher Photo

So I returned to the group conversation and said, “Have you visited the Grand View Terrace eating area? Some people we met had been raving about Thomas Jefferson’s homemade ice cream recipe – which they serve here.  About the nose, maybe you are right – the ice cream is vanilla flavor.  You can smell it just by standing next to someone with a cone or dish of the tasty dessert.  It was crowded.”  Smiling a bit, I added, “So maybe you are right, the nose is the champion feature of these carved presidential figures!”  Everyone returned a happy face grin and we all moved on, satisfied to share a moment of observation with each other.

Though the Ponderosa pines offer the scent of vanilla and the Thomas Jefferson homemade ice cream recipe is vanilla flavor – and it is delicious, our visit to this incredible place was not ordinary vanilla.

Every visitor, there were 1000’s, appeared to be in reverent awe of the monument.  There was a soft-spoken drone of conversation in the air that hovered above the sound of the breeze, with these flags proudly waffling a soft message of freedom in the wind.  Every single state in the country has their flag displayed here.  It felt so very good to walk among the cascade of flags aptly named, the “Avenue of Flags.”

Mount Rushmore associate, Jane Zwetzig, had provided us with early advice about making sure we test the delicious ice cream.  The vanilla flavor and sweet taste is like the monument, unforgettable.

The information center is a “must-see stop” to insure you understand what to see during your day visit. Forrest Fisher Photo

A stop to the Information Center provided details about current day activities, with informational brochures and details of exhibits, they helped to plan hiking trail and exhibit visits for the day.  There are guided walks down the Presidential Trail and tours, Ranger programs, amphitheater programs, the Sculptor’s Studio, the bookstore, the gift shop and also, an audio tour.  There is also an audio tour device, a handheld wand, that can be rented for $5 and is available in four languages.

The food court is a great food stop, complete with bison burgers, bison hotdogs and a long list of other, non-meat, healthy foods and beverages.

Toward evening, the sculpture is illuminated for one hour, starting 30 minutes after sunset, and that marks the onset of the “Evening Lighting Ceremony.” The Mount Rushmore National Memorial is open year-round, except on Christmas Day (Dec. 25), from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the summer, and through 5 p.m. in the winter. The cost is FREE, except there is an $11 parking fee for cars.

At the end of the “Avenue of Flags,” there is a balcony where families gather for pictures to be cherished long into the future.

Hotel accommodations are plentiful in Rapid City, Hill City, Keystone and several other small towns nearby, including infamous Deadwood (Wild Bill Hickok – Saloon No. 10), about 45 minutes to the north.  We spent the overnight at the Gold Dust hotel in Deadwood (http://golddustdeadwood.com/), recently renovated in this former western outlaw town – such a great place to visit.

For more information about the Black Hills, Badlands, Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse monument and other local sites, visit: http://www.blackhillsbadlands.com/business/black-hills-visitor-information-center.

The busiest day of the year for Mount Rushmore? You might have guessed, is July 4th. According to manager, Lloyd Shelton, Independence Day will usually see a little more than 10,000 visitors per hour. The good news is that the park services can handle that volume and there is plenty of room.

You will find inspiration from the presidential presence with a wonderful sense of opportunity to share and absorb the energy and leadership provided from these mountain-top carvings at the memorial monument.  These elements of Mount Rushmore are unchanged, regardless of the number of visitors.  We enjoyed every moment of our visit – the people, the property, the outdoor elements of unique grandeur.  This is a great summer stop.  Upon arrival, the mystique of this special place is clearly apparent.

We drove all the way from New York State (two fun days), a long trip, and we are already planning a return visit!

 

GT meets DT, with a STORM!

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • The 360GT is Simple and Affordable.
  • Toss it out, Retrieve it…that Simple.
  • Learn why it Works Here, see the Video.

By Forrest Fisher

Rapala created a series of lures that allow anglers more understanding about their fish-attracting products just by reading the label.  For example, the new “DT” series of Rapala’s are labelled DT-4, DT-20, etc. and the acronym stands for “Dives-To” 4 feet, 20 feet, and so on.

In similar manner, Storm created a “GT” series searchbait-minnow labelled “360-GT,” intended for use 360 degrees around the angler casting position.  The “GT” stands for “Go-To” lure.  Pretty catchy, pretty simple, and as I discovered, pretty effective.

The supple, soft, durable, plastic body offers a wide swimming tail action that wobbles left to right as it is retrieved.  The wobble from the tail causes the head to roll left and right a bit, emanating a faint, resonant, rattle sound from the jig head as the lure is retrieved.  Depth is controlled by angler speed of retrieve, the selected weight of the jig head and the size of the tail selected in the available assortment of the GT series.

Al Lindner says, “Throw it out, turn the reel handle, that’s it.  Incredibly productive, incredibly effective.”  We all know that when Al Lindner says it that way, I think you gotta try it for yourself.  So I did.  I believe Al.

I fished these in Florida, North Carolina and New York in the last few months to field test their effective attraction.  A faster retrieve caused a gentle internal rattle sound to emanate – an audible frequency sound that seemed to drive fish nuts.  Not sure the fish were attracted to the lure or just wanted to kill the sound source because it bothered them.  Either way, I caught smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, northern pike and crappie on these enticing “Go-To” lures.  Do I like them?  Yes!  An understatement.

Why do I like them?  They are affordable priced.  They are packaged with three tails, one tail is pre-mounted to the rattling head, and two tails are spares.  The jig head is molded around a VMC fish hook.  They are a “keep-it-simple bait.”  Right now, this toss and retrieve bait is available in 11 common baitfish color patterns and three sizes, perfect for a tasty predator ambush.  They are inexpensive, priced from $4 to $6.    

See a video about how to use this simple, easy to fish bait.  Al Lindner talks about it in some detail as you watch through this video: https://youtu.be/SXpFV_HBxmk.

Search out more about the size, weight and color options at this link: http://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Storm_360_GT_Swimbaits/descpage-360GT.html?gclid=CjwKEAjw4IjKBRDr6p752cCUm3kSJAC-eqRt-ie33kR_cEohLuabI94Q-pqSKYFFhHU-_GUILMo-5RoCBFjw_wcB.

 

Outdoor Resources for Families – FREE From New York State

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • New York State Conservationist for Kids is FREE
  • Useful Outdoor Discovery Articles
  • Environmental Education Information for All Ages
Kids and Nature work together to promote Conservation. Check out these links!

Many children learn about the outdoors from adults who accompany them as they explore. Plenty of times the kids teach the adults as well as the adults teaching the kids! If you are looking for ideas on how to enjoy the outdoors with the young people in your life visit the web sites listed below.

Outdoor Discovery is an online newsletter from DEC for families. It encourages New Yorkers to explore outdoors and learn about the environment. Each issue introduces subscribers to a a seasonal environmental or nature topic, suggests a related activity and lists family friendly events at DEC’s environmental education centers. DEC Outdoor Discovery is emailed to subscribers every other Wednesday and also appears on DEC’s website.

DEC operates environmental education programs statewide. These include two environmental education centers from Albany to Buffalo, plus regional environmental educators who serve New York City, Long Island and Central NY.

The DEC’s residential environmental education summer camps have be operating for over 60 years. The camps serve boys and girls ages 11-17, who attend a week long program exploring the outdoors and learning about the environment. Campers can even participate in a hunter safety class and receive their hunter safety certificate. The four summer camps are located across the state, two in the Adirondacks, one in the Catskills and one in Western New York.

National Wildlife Federation advocates spending at least one hour each day outdoors in nature. Their web site Be Out There provides ideas for reconnecting kids with the many benefits of the great outdoors. Good for both mental and physical health, spending time outdoors is also fun and helps kids build a connection to nature. Using the “NatureFind” feature visitors can find outdoor activities in their area, and across the country.

Nature Rocks from the Children and Nature Network, The Nature Conservancy and R.E.I. provides ideas for exploring outdoors with children. They also offer a search feature to locate programs, sites and outdoor play groups, known as Nature Rocks Flocks in your area.

For more, just visit: http://www.dec.ny.gov/education/59422.html.

Guide-Fishing Secrets to Catch Chautauqua Lake Walleyes

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Chautauqua Lake Secret: Work the Weedline
  • Keep Fishing Simple To Succeed Often
  • Spinner/Worm Rigs & Snap-Jigging
Jan Adair (left) landed this nice walleye, her first walleye ever, while fishing Chautauqua Lake, then caught five more walleye before the noon hour while fishing with Captain Frank Schoenacker (right).

By Forrest Fisher with guide, Frank Schoenacker (Infinity Charters)

 When great guides and charter captains talk, honest anglers that don’t always catch fish listen.  So I listen very well.  I’m as honest as they come.  One thing I’ve discovered, when anglers share life through the gift of a fishing charter, good things can happen! 

During a recent Chautauqua Lake fishing trip for one client couple, there came lasting memories and lots of fishing fun. 

The client contacted my friend and local guide, Frank Schoenacker, in December, as she had purchased a charter fish trip as a Christmas gift for her boyfriend.  Frank said, “They both fish, but haven’t done much walleye or musky fishing.  So last week, they had a couple of firsts.  She landed her first ever walleye, which was a nice 17-inch fish, then she followed up with 5 more!  That’s not all, her boyfriend caught his first musky while fishing for walleyes.” 

Frank added, “I teach my clients to fish simple.  It all starts with meeting them at a common place.  At Chautauqua Lake, for many guides and for me too, that place is the Bemus Point boat launch.  The next thing is not overcrowding the action and the people aboard. On Chautauqua, I limit clients to two people maximum and I don’t fish when I have clients.   I provide equipment and have it setup before the trip.” 

When Frank talks, he explains juicy details, “On my boat, I use an 8-horse kicker to troll weed edges at slow speed (1 mph or so), mostly using a very simple, old-fashioned, spinner/worm harness.  Small beads, a small spinner blade and small hooks are essential when fishing Chautauqua.  Lots of reasons why, they have to do with catching your targeted species.  Boat control and using electronics to see the weed edge is critical.  My boat is a tiller steer, so I have direct contact with my motor and boat direction.  I tie my harness with small hooks (size one), then use a small copper or fire-tiger blade (size 2) off a clevis, then I usually add small red beads as attractors – or whatever fish think those are!  They work.”

Schoenacker uses a sliding-sinker for weight on his 6 to 8 lb braid as mainline.  He adds, “Pretty much an old school setup. Normally I’m anywhere from 8 to 14 feet of water depth depending on the weed edge where we fish.  Early in the season when water is cool, I’ll use nightcrawlers (sometimes half-worms are better than whole ones) and I start to use a rubber worm soon after, as white perch get pesky and they won’t touch a plastic worm.” He was smiling with a big grin.

“Starting at the tail end of June, I fish a rubber worm instead of a live worm pretty much all the time.  When the bite slows at mid-morning, I have one client go to a live worm.  Sometimes we can get an extra bite or two. “

What if the fish aren’t biting?  Franks says, “I move around and pre-fish before guided trips so I have a plan based on wind and weather for the day.  Generally, during the early season I’m in the lower lake mostly (south of Route 86 bridge).  This year (2017), the channel in Bemus was good early.” 

Even in summer, it pays to bring an extra jacket when the weather send a chilly breeze at sunrise.

“It’s not as simple as I’m making it sound, you need to adapt and you know when that needs to happen after a few decades of fishing, ”Schoenacker says.  “Weed lines off the creek mouths are good, so I look around Prendergast Bay, Dewittville Bay, Goose Creek, etc.  The fish tend to be active at different places and at different times, so this is where the knowledge of the guide comes in.  Add the varying style of fishing we can do and add the potential to change position, “run and gun,” from spot to spot, we find them most every day we try.” 

If you live on or near the lake, that is a bonus.  He adds, “Pre-fishing helps me have several spots planned.  Any angler that fishes today needs to have pretty good electronics so they can see the fish for as many times as they work the weed line.  I have also seen that when walleyes are active, the white perch are less of a problem.  I’m seeing several good year classes of walleyes in the lake now, lots of 13-14 inch throwbacks, then there are numbers of 17 inchers and then a class of 20 inch-plus fish. “

Anglers are pleased that the walleye population is doing well in the lake and folks are also very pleased that the DEC lowered the walleye minimum size limit to 15-inches in 2017.  Schoenacker adds, “I do some musky trolling, but my primary focus is on fishing for walleyes.”

“I’ll fish the weed lines until the water warms and fish move deeper.  At that point I move to open water trolling and snap-jigging.  Snap-jigging works for me right on through the fall.  I like the weedline and jigging programs best because you hold the rod and feel the fish hit.  Hard to beat that for sure,” says Schoenacker 

Schoenacker adds, “I want to help people have more fun finding and catching fish, so I’m sharing some of my program plan with walleye anglers everywhere that plan to fish Chautauqua Lake sometime soon.  This gives you the background on my simple walleye program, but don’t forget, you can always call me for a hands-on trip.”

Lastly, Schoenacker has two boats, he uses the smaller one (Lund Pro–V Tiller with 60hp Yamaha and 8hp Yamaha) for that up-front experience on Chautauqua Lake, but he is also a licensed Lake Erie Charter Captain and member of the Eastern Lake Erie Charter Boat Association and National Association of Charter Boat Operators. He will also share his fish–catching secrets while aboard his Pro-Line 25 (powered by Evinrude 225hp ETEC and 9.9hp Yamaha kicker).  You can reach Capt. Frank Schoenacker by phone at 585-406-5764, email: fcs49@hotmail.com, or on his website at: http://www.infinitycharters.com/. 

You know, we never stop learning when people that know way more than we do are willing to share.  Hat’s off to Captain Frank!

TOTAL INSECT PROTECTION for Hunters and Everyone Else

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Total Protection from Mosquitoes, Deer Ticks, Chiggers
  • Total Protection from No-See-Ums, Black Flies, Sand Fleas, Ants, Gnats
  • Prevent Zika, Malaria, West Nile, Dengue, Lyme disease, others
  • Made in the USA
Photo Courtesy of RYNOSKIN® TOTAL

By Forrest Fisher

This article is not an ad, but I suppose it could be.  I just want all of my friends and neighbors of the outdoors to know about this for only one selfish reason that I have, Lyme disease prevention.  In New York State, a recent study shows 1 out of every 2 deer ticks have Lyme disease.  Period.  You must protect yourself from this beast of a disease, and the affected deer tick population is  increasing logarithmically as it spreads across the country. 

For the record, deer ticks get Lyme disease from white-footed mice.  Mice are where Lyme disease comes from, but it is the deer ticks that can give Lyme disease to us humans when they bite us because they are so small, their bite is nearly painless and we simply cannot see them most of the time.

When two of my grandkids came down with Lyme disease last year, we researched so many products to help find protection.  Most of the protections are chemically based and work well, but there was always a concern about the chemicals and possible effects years down the road.  Then one day in our research, we discovered Rynoskin Total. It’s chemical free, is comfortable, does not retain heat (in summer, this is important), and is impervious to Mosquitoes, Deer Ticks, other Ticks, Chiggers, No-See-Ums, Black Flies, Sand Fleas, Ants, Gnats and many other biting insects.  It is a positive measure toward preventing Zika, Malaria, West Nile, Dengue, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Ehrlichiosis and other vector borne illnesses.

Could there be anything better?  Not for me.  At least not yet in our world of technology.  This suit brings total comfort and peace of mind to me as an outdoorsman and to my family. 

My first question was, why didn’t I know about this sooner? I’m a turkey hunter, deer hunter, walk-in-high-grass trout angler, and if you get the picture, I’m outdoors a lot in the places where deer ticks that carry Lyme disease like to be too.

Rynoskin Total is specifically designed to be worn underneath your clothing.  This unique concept provides for comfort, breathability, stealth movement and eliminates snags against brush.  The Rynoskin is stretchable and it fits snuggly and comfortably on your body over your under-garments, but under your exterior clothing.

It provides insect protection in a form that will stretch to accommodate all different body sizes.  Many over-garment insect protection suits are hot, make noise when you move and snag against the brush as you sneak about the woods stalking that next trophy deer. I tried this suit. It does it all.  Rynoskin Total is ultra-lightweight, body-forming, cool, and comfortable.

My entire body suit – which is comprised of socks, bottoms, tops, glove and face mask/hood – weighs under 6 ounces!

For my grandkids, the best part about Rynoskin Total is the chemical free nature of this product.  They have a future to live.  It is completely safe to use and it is effective no matter how many times you wash it over time. The suit protects the user by the unique weave of the fabric and the form fitting elastic cuffs that create the ultimate barrier against biting insects.  This body suit is so comfortable that you forget you have it on.

Photo Courtesy of RYNOSKIN® TOTAL

If it matters to you, the suits come in various colors, but a lighter color will allow you to find ticks on your suit more easily, the whole time knowing that they cannot penetrate your Rynoskin.  That’s comfort.

Here is a video with a hands-on, eyes-on, narrative to see: https://youtu.be/wENkNvNPEKA.

The Rynoskin Total suits are scientifically tested and made in the USA.  I’m sold. A little over $100 for the whole thing. Cheap at 1,000 times the cost if you have been affected by Lyme disease and understand you might be taking 32 pills and one injection every day for years while you moan in pain. That all makes it really affordable for my way of thinking.

Wish they made one for my dog!  How good is it?  It’s guaranteed.  If you are not satisfied with your Rynoskin, just call (866) 934-7546 within thirty (30) days of purchase for a full refund with proof of purchase.

Check it out on line at: http://rynoskin.com/. 

Fishing Boom in the Drought-Stricken Everglades

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

By Forrest Fisher

Mayan chiclid are honest fighters on light gear and they can get quite large, this is 2-1/2 pound fish!  This species and others are feared to be competing with native species in some areas, allowing FWC to issue a no-limit daily bag rule for anglers that enjoy consumption of the fish they catch. Conservation and protection can be delivered in many forms.  Forrest Fisher Photo

While visitors are not normally familiar with catching fish that look like they might be from an aquarium, there are locals and visitors reporting many fantastic panfish catches.  

Exotic panfish, such as oscar and Mayan cichlid, are biting almost as fast as you can cast or bait your hook. Low water levels in the marsh are concentrating fish in the L-67A and other canals of the Everglades Wildlife Management Area, and anglers are frequently reporting catches of multiple fish per hour.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) promotes the consumptive use of exotic fish as a management tool, and anglers are encouraged to take as many oscars and Mayan cichlids as they would like.  There are no size or bag limits on these species.

“As is frequently the case, low water conditions near the end of a dry season have fish stacked up in the canals along the vegetated edges. Anglers are enjoying exceptional catch rates,” said Barron Moody, FWC regional freshwater fisheries administrator.

Concentrate your fishing effort close to shoreline vegetation or along the drop-offs near the banks.  Good fishing can be had from shore or by boat.  Live baits and artificial lures produce good catches in the WCAs.  The preferred live baits are shiners, crickets, and worms.  The top producing artificials are soft plastics rigged weedless, Beetle spins, crankbaits, and topwater poppers or chuggers. 

Even if portions of EWMA are closed due to environmental conditions, the boat ramps and canals remain open for fishing.

So grab your fishing license and get out there while the fishing is hot.

For more information, view the FWC’s Everglades fishing brochure and recent site forecast at MyFWC.com/Fishing. Current fishing forecasts, regulations and directions to boat ramps can also be obtained from FWC at (561) 625-512.

There are consumption advisories for some species. Visit FloridaHealth.gov and search “Seafood Consumption” in the search bar for more information.

“Sunny Day Kids” are HOOKED ON FISHING FUN!

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Fishing & Learning Adventure on the Buffalo River
  • May 28, 2017; Bison City Rod & Gun Club, Buffalo, N.Y.
  • 141 Kids, 322 Total Attendance; 21 Volunteers; 8-Learning Stations
There is something very special about that first fish!  Kids and parents found adventure and fun while learning about rods, reels, bobbers and fish-catching at Bison City Rod & Gun Club in Buffalo, NY. 

By Forrest Fisher

The forecast for rain and fog was swept aside when bright, sunny skies with a gentle 75 degree breeze surprised families with kids from Buffalo and Western New York.  They came to fish and learn at Bison City Rod & Gun Club for the 13th Annual Jimmy Griffin Memorial Teach-Me-To-Fish event.

Each youth carried a personal registration card with their first name, last initial and age. When the kids achieved learning at each station, the station captain would hole punch the card, when all the stations were completed, the youth was eligible to drop the card into the raffle hopper for one of 76 free rod/reel rigs.

Once a polluted waterway that would burn from the heat of a lighted match, today the Buffalo River waterfront is clean, alive, and hopping with fish, kayaks, canoes and kids with fishing poles.  The Buffalo-Niagara Riverkeeper Group is a big part of the clean-up progress.

The kids and their families all learned a bit more about the adventure of the outdoors through the fun of fishing, many for the very first time!

While the river was running a bit muddy from recent heavy rains, the steady flow of riverfront kayakers, sailboats, canoes and power boats showed proof that water color is not a deterrent.  Kids fishing from the Bison City fishing pier were busy.  Even single adults without kids came to discover the fun and adventure of “how-to-fish”.  More and more people want to know.

Lynda Kollar, Rose Barus and Linda Cooley energized a positive first-moment connection with folks at the registration welcome station.

Inner city kids and parent, guardians and many others discovered the fun of fishing with the Buffalo city skyline in full view. 

Kids and parents learned “How-To-Fish” and what to do from Western New York bass pro, Scott Gauld, who took time to share “easy tips” for everyone in the program.  He explained that catching a fish with a rod and reel (bait or artificial lure) is not only possible, it is fun and not difficult.  Gauld provided that special seal of “sure-fun is right around the corner” that only a professional angler might be able to influence for new onlookers.  Kids went away looking for the fishing pier!

Marine Unit 2 with Erie County Sheriff Tim Dusza and his team, provided tours of their vessel.  Everyone learned about water-safety, kids were allowed to blow the horn and turn on the flashing lights. Big smiles there!

Russ Johnson and Bob Carlson, members of the East Aurora Fish & Game Club, who have perfected the system for educating kids and parents on how to tie a perfect Palomar Knot and Clinch Knot, taught everyone how to tie on a hook in only a few seconds.  

Rigging a weedless plastic bait, a plastic worm or jig tail, was made easy with a hands-on demonstration by junior Bassmasters Alex Gauld and Collin Voss, as they provided each youth with a souvenir plastic creature bait sample from Cabela’s.  The kids could use the bait to fish with or take home.  The girls seemed to pick the pink squiggly-tail crayfish!

Environmental Conservation Officer, Jeff Jondel, and firearm safety instructor, Joe Mills, provided hands-on firearm safety training.  They shared the rules of responsibility for parents and kids, so they could experience the Cabela’s BB-Gun Range, an inflated and fully enclosed, fully safe, “bounce house” style event.  The NRA safety-instructors provided easy 1, 2, 3 steps for responsible use of a firearm, using a BB-gun.  Kids and parents took turns checking their aim using Daisy Red Ryder BB-Guns, shooting at suspended souvenir paper targets.  Happy kids took their targets home with ear-to-ear smiles as souvenirs.

Lifetime youth educator and certified New York State Archery champion, Paul Stoos, worked with Earl Farrel, Sr., to provide first-time how-to lessons for kids at the Cabela’s Archery Booth, using air-suspended floating ball targets.  

Charter Captain Jerry May and walleye master, Ted Malota, taught kids how to cast a spincast fishing rod with hookless casting baits.  The kids were sailing their lines a very long way toward hula-hoop targets in just minutes.  Ted shared, “Wow, some of these kids are really good with so little practice!”  Fun for all!

The kids and adults fished from “George’s Landing,” the legacy honor name for the Bison City fishing pier.  It was a fun and exciting adventure station for kids, even more exciting for some parents who had never touched a live fish before. On-site fishing educator, Dave Solowski, provided eager kids with bait, pre-rigged rods, reels, bobbers, hooks, split-shot and plenty of nightcrawler bait supplied by Weekley’s Worms.  Weekly’s Worms provides more than 50 million redworms and nightcrawlers to anglers every year.  Imagine that!

Dockside outfitter, Donna Kayes, provided solid “pre-fish confidence” while outfitting each youth with a life-preserver before entering the fishing pier area.  Several first-fish catches were recorded, with new adventure and fun had by all. The fish were placed in the aerated “Lunker Pool” and released by the kids after the event.  Kids that did not catch a fish enjoyed seeing the swimming fish that others caught. After the event, the kids helped release all the fish to swim another day, a meaningful lesson in conservation for our youth.

Lyme disease is a serious killer of healthy fun and life. “It starts with deer ticks,” says instructor, Sheri Voss, as she uses dolls and explains details  to stay safe in a manner that little kids and their parents can understand. 

At the newest learning station, “OUTDOOR AWARENESS,” outdoor educator, Sheri Voss, provided hands-on lessons for families with advice on how to stay prepared, protected, informed and proactive, whenever they head outdoors.  There was special focus on deer ticks and the Lyme disease outbreak in northeast USA.

As families completed the learning station tours, a 70-page slide show was shown on the 7-foot screen indoors, allowing for continued fishing and outdoor adventure education.  While observing the screen, the kitchen crew provided world famous Sahlen’s grill-cooked hot dogs, Perry’s Ice Cream, Paula’s Donuts, Gwen Jozwiak’s hand-made “fish cupcakes,” beverages and other munchies.

During the random gear raffle, 76 happy youths won a free rod/reel combo.  Everyone else, adults too, took home fishing maps, tackle, and special prizes from the “Bison City Tackle Treasure Chest.”

The kids and the adults were all BIG WINNERS!

This special youth outreach event is annual event sponsored and coordinated by the Bison City Rod & Gun Club with special thanks to Ted and Doraine Malota, Cabela’s, Erie County Federation of Sportsmen, WNY Safari Club, Sahlen’s Meat Packing, the Norby Antonik Foundation, Weekley’s Bait, Paula’s Donuts and 21 dedicated volunteers who donated their time to help youth and their families learn more about the outdoors through the fun of fishing!  

Gurgle, Babble & Slurp – the Welcome Language of a Reborn Trout Stream

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

By Forrest Fisher

Chuck Swanderski, a member of the Doc Fritchey Trout Unlimited Chapter, volunteers his time to teach youngsters and oldsters about the fun of fly fishing. Forrest Fisher Photo

Fly fishing for trout is a new adventure for fishermen more familiar with trolling for Great Lakes walleye or casting for tournament bass.  That makes it a new adventure for yours truly.

The new unfamiliar tool? A lightweight fly rod about eight-feet in length with a single-action reel that holds a heavy-looking fluorescent color “fly line” with a long, fine, clear leader tied to the end.     

We were fishing Quittapahilla Creek, a small stream in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania (near the candy-making city of Hershey), known locally as the “Quittie,” and my mentor for the day, Chuck Swanderski, a member of the Doc Fritchey Trout Unlimited Chapter, shared some of the history of this waterway. 

For newcomers to fly fishing, the choices are many, including dry flies, wet flies, streamers and nymphs. Forrest Fisher Photo

The creek starts as a clear, clean, upward bubbling spring, just a few miles upstream from where we were standing.  Problem was that it had become an industrial waste discharge outlet for 80 years ending just after WWII.  At that time, the stream was dead with little aquatic life and no fish.  From WWII until about 1990, the area had become a waste dump when concerned citizens started a clean-up with organized angler groups.  They petitioned for grant monies and project funding from state and federal sources, and got them. 

Tying a 2-fly rig is simple with the right instruction, as the first fly is tied normally, the second fly is attached by a short 12-inch leader to the curved shank of the first fly. Forrest Fisher Photo

Trout Unlimited assisted with the hard work and planning efforts, providing manpower for stream improvement that included invasive plant removal, stream clean-up, riparian buffer tree plantings, bank retainer netting, in-stream boulder structure placement and habitat construction, cedar chip trails (anti-deer tick), safety-minded access, parking areas, stream stocking and harvest monitoring.  And more.

The downstream areas of the riffles created from water flow over the in-stream boulder placements become highly oxygenated, providing preferred comfort zones for oxygen-seeking trout.  They are also preferred areas for anglers to ply their skills with fly presentations.

The 2-fly rig is effective when aquatic insects are present in healthy streambeds and are drifting along in the current. Forrest Fisher Photo

For this day, Chuck provided me with an intro to learning on-stream etiquette and made it a fun adventure for yours truly.  He supplied details about the usual “how to do” things with the nearly weightless feathered hooks.  It might have been a sort of day-long ordeal for Chuck, but I think we had some great fun. 

We shared conversations, we laughed, and we joked about modern life, mostly comparing it to ancient life in America five decades ago when we were kids.  Lots to compare with 27 cent gas and Dick Tracy wristwatches from back then.  Beam me up Scotty.  We’re almost there!

It is humbling to watch a skilled fly angler cast a nearly weightless fly with so little effort.  Chuck was VERY good.  With a curious and watchful eye, it is easy to see that there is an artful rhythm to the whisper of the unassuming fly line soaring gently overhead to land so softly in a riffle 40 feet upstream.  No sound, no vigor, just a small feathery sample of barbless food for a hungry trout. 

This home-made streamer from Neshannock Creek Fly Shop caught several fish for us when the 2-fly rig only drew followers.

As I listened to Chuck direct my ability to make unfettered motion with a 50-year old Fenwick “gold series” fiberglass fly rod and fly, I forgot about all of the many issues on my mind.  Paying bills, story deadlines, emails to answer, calls to make and the ever-growing to-do list for around the house back home in East Aurora, New York, five hours north.  They all disappeared during these few hours of on-stream renewal.  I was developing something I had only heard about from other fly rod anglers, a kinship with the natural world of a water flow and feathered, fuzzy hooks.

The author enjoys chemical-free protection from deer ticks, black flies and mosquitoes with a protective skin covering suit made by Rynoskin Total (http://rynoskin.com/) that fits comfortably under his clothing, even on hot days. Note the beige color suit that includes socks, bottoms, tops, gloves and hood (gloves and hood not worn in picture).  Chuck Swanderski Photo

My heart and soul was at peace with nature in this restored stream.  I was feeling quintessential on the Quittie!  The gurgle of the flowing water was such a welcome sound.  It is, perhaps, a sacred signal that these same swish and chinkle sounds occurred hundreds of years before. 

At that moment, I was again stopped in mid-thought, feeling bonded by nature to our forebears.  I thought to myself, again, such peace.  I measured my heartrate, it was 52.  Indeed, heart-found peace!  This fly rod stuff was really good stuff. 

Earlier we tied on a two-fly rig using nymph stage Hare’s Ear flies to imitate aquatic insect larvae in the stream. After an hour of casting skill improvement, we moved from hole to hole and rifle to riffle checking for active fish. The fish were moving toward the fly, but would turn away, perhaps the wrong size or pattern. Maybe my leader was too heavy.  So Chuck switched me to a hand-made streamer fly made by his old fishing buddy at Neshannock Creek Fly Shop from another favorite fishing spot of his near Pittsburgh (visit http://www.ncflyshop.com/).

The retrieve was fairly simple when compared to some bottom big jig bass fishing tactics. This simply was cast out with a roll cast, then retrieved in a pull, pull, and stop manner. Bringing in a few inches of line with each pull.

On the second cast, a 15-inch rainbow trout slammed the fly. Wham!  My arm jolted forward as the fish ran the other way, then leaped high in summersault fashion some four times before coming to our welcome net about 45 seconds later.  My heart rate zipped a bit too, awesome fun that was measurable.  What fun this was!  We carefully released the fish to fight another day, maybe to provide these same moments of fun for some youngster tomorrow or the next day. 

This 15-inch rainbow trout wacked a streamer fly and just made the day so much more special. A beautiful, colorful fish.  Chuck Swanderski Photo

Lastly, Chuck was really happy to share something that might serve as a learning lesson for thousands of other streams in the country, the Quittapahilla Creek Garbage Museum.  Here was a collection of hundreds of various shapes of disposed plastics. Bottles, baby toys, plastic chain, plastics in many forms, most of it tattered, broken, but still identifiable.

The Quittapahilla Creek Garbage Museum creates a mind-sustaining mental picture of what plastics have done to our environment and everything in it.  Forrest Fisher Photo

According to a written message from the Garbage Museum Executive Director, an educator person who placed numerous informational learning signs for others to study and whose name is not known to me, “Most plastics will DECOMPOSE, but never BIODEGRADE.  Breaking into smaller chunks, the plastic molecules will be with us for millions of years, ingested and excreted millions of times by fish, birds and other organisms.”  After reading this I thought to myself…and we wonder where cancer comes from – something we didn’t have much of 50 years before plastics.

Then I recalled the movie named “The Graduate,” where most of us remember the most significant word from that steamy movie made in 1967, “plastics.”  There is goodness and not-so-goodness, perhaps, with every invention.  I wondered if the preceding native ancestors, the Lenape Indians, would continue to use plastics if they understood what we now know about plastics?    

It was getting late, we had walked about 3,000 feet downstream stream from the public parking lot on this 34-acre Quittie Nature Park stream and the temperature was 90.  It was time to recap our trip with friends from the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers Association at the nearby Snitz Creek Brewery, a tasteful beer-making facility not far from the stream.  We took a beer plant tour with co-founder, Patrick Freer, then discovered a few moments later that there is nothing quite like a microbrew they call “Opening Day IPA.”  This is particularly true among fellow fly-rodders that can tell a tale, if you know what I mean.  “No, my fish was bigger.  I caught two. I caught four.” And on and on.  You get the picture.  A fun, thirst-quenching, long-winded, joke-filled lunch.  The best kind.    

When friends and community work together to create a revitalized stream treasure and nature area, the future is brighter for everyone.  On a related note though, while we seem to have saved our second amendment with our current legislators – a good thing, the work of clean streams and waterways may become more challenging due to currently retracting rules of the Clean Water Act.  Be watchful as sportsmen, speak up when we need to.

Hats off to all those volunteers that take the time to reclaim lost parts of nature for the benefit of our common future. 

 

ZIP-LINE FUN, THRILLS for YOUNG & OLD!

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Extraordinary Speed in Safe Flight from Tower-to-Tower
  • Adventure, Fun and Assured Safety
  • Full Body Harness & Head Helmet Protection is Required
  • My Favorite Place: Peek ‘N Peak, near Findley Lake, New York

By Forrest Fisher

The harness and safety helmet assure your personal safety, the rest is SHEER FUN!  My granddaughter Kelsey went first. “Yeaaahhhhh!”  Unforgettable!

Those zip-lines with strange looking towers on the hills in the distance of places we travel definitely beckon for adventure seekers.  Many have never tried them out.

At Peek ‘N Peak Resort and Conference Center (http://www.pknpk.com/) near the quaint country village of Findley Lake, located in the southwest corner of New York, my grandkids would not allow me to just watch them try out the zip-line.

They said, “C’mon Dziadz (Polish word for grandfather), your time to fly from the towers has come!” I smiled and said, “OK, sounds good.”  Not really sure of what I was getting myself into.

We rode the ski-lift to the top of the hill to start out on the high zip-line.  My granddaughter Kelsey went first.  “Yeaaahhhhh!” Screaming away at 120 decibels or more, as she headed for the next tower station more than one-thousand feet away.

My turn was next.  What a minute.  Was there a giant 12-point buck walking to within 10 yards of my tree stand?  Why was my heart pounding?!   I was a bit nervous and even was trembling a bit.  Here I am, an ex-military Vietnam-era veteran and I was shaky.  After all, we were only about 100 feet off the ground and there was a 20 mph wind blowing.  Not to make light of things, but there was rain in the forecast too, and it was dark and cloudy right about now.  I was not going to wimp out.  Couldn’t do that.

I harnessed in, told myself to “think brave”, got the “all clear” after being checked by the operators and, again, I could sense my wide-open eyeballs.

Excitement is a very cool thing in life!  It can be hard to find when you’re looking at 70 birthday candles just ahead.

Zeeooooow.  I zoomed off and in what seemed like 5-minutes, I landed on the next tower about 30 seconds later.  Standing right next to my granddaughter, she asked, “What’d ya think Dziadz, fun right?!”

I answered, “Yup!” And smiled ear to ear in convincing fashion, double-checking to see if my tongue had been frozen to the roof of my mouth and did a double take to see if I didn’t wet my pants.

Kelsey then said, “OK, this tower is really going to be even more fun.  It’s a dual zip-line and we take off together.  I’ll race you to the bottom of the hill!  Are you ready Dziadz?”

We harnessed up.

Yikes, this was exciting!

My sensory expectations seemed in better control after that first long ride.  Clip, Clack, Clip, we were in.  Standing next to each other, we were ready.  Just then, Gazzzooongg!  Thunder in the distance.  Then suddenly, the dark skies opened up.  It was a near-torrential downpour.  They said, “We are closing the towers, your harnessed in, go down if you like, you’re the last riders.”

I felt like Matt Dillon and was up against the fastest draw in the west.  He always keeps his cool.  That was my mindset.

We smiled to each other and screamed our, “Let’s go!”  We were either brave or not so smart (I was thinking that other word that starts on “s” and ends with a “d”….stupid).

In the middle of our descent as we exceeded 70 mph, flashes of light jumped out left and right in the distance.   There was lightning all around us as we zoomed through some nearby treetops.

Flashbulb Fodder?  I asked the Almighty for some help.  He was with us because I can share this fun tale.

We were wet to the bone.  Mighty thankful too, that we did not complete an electrical storm circuit during the flighty speedy trip down the dual zip-line.  It was an incredible experience.  We were both happy for this extraordinary hair-raising survival encounter with adventure.

We climbed down from the tower.  Both of us kissed the muddy ground.  What a run!

I was ready to leave the zip-line and head over to the bar in the sip-line!  You know, a cold water on the rocks is what I needed.

Everybody met in the facility lobby and hugged. Kelsey said, “Wow!  That was incredible, wasn’t it!?” Literally wet to the bone, we all looked up and in just 5-minutes, the clouds had vanished and the sun popped out.  Life is.

“Wanna do it again Dziadz?” I resorted to that canned ear-to-ear smile that we grandfather’s all carry for emergencies and said, “Maybe tomorrow, ok?”

The Giant Dual Zip-Line adventure at Peek ‘N Peak soars over the trees side-by-side on independent lines next to your partner, allowing both riders to enjoy an exhilarating and majestic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.  It’s a 2,000 foot long glide path!  Photo courtesy of Peek ‘N Peak

The Giant Dual Zip-Line adventure at Peak ‘n Peek allows you to feel sort of like a bird, a hawk or an eagle on a dive.  Imagine, those types of birds do this all the time to survive via their very nature.

There is also an Aerial Adventure Course that features 69 obstacles and includes eight courses of varying difficulty. Participants climb up and down cargo nets and ladders while navigating course elements, including zip lines, in this tree top adventure.  Suited for all ability levels, this course is a 3-hour, self-guided experience that allows you to explore the course at your own pace.  You can try any (or all) of the eight different courses, working your way through the tree tops from platform to platform, encountering obstacles along the way.

I was humble and kindly declined to look for yet another new adventure experience.  Had to use that ear to ear grin trick again.

The zip line adventure was not really on my bucket list, but oh-my-gosh!  It was such unforgettable fun.  We will do that again, but maybe not, if rain and thunder are in the forecast. I’m going to check beforehand!

The lifestyle we have shared in my family includes being active in the outdoors, but is focused on fishing, hunting, hiking, boating and family campfires.

When my younger grandkids heard that there was a pool here that offered a “wave” and had a “long slide”, good old gramps thought it would be a great next stop too.

We have learned to love this special place in the quiet hills.

Check it out: http://www.pknpk.com/packages-deals/overnight/ski-ride-packages/.

New Tru-Fire Release Eliminates Trigger Punch

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Instant Cure for Target Panic
  • Eliminate Trigger Punch
  • Anti-Punch Trigger Feature is Selectable
The new Tru-Fire Panic-X release is designed to help eliminate an archer’s tendency to activate the trigger before being absolutely ready.

“Punching” the trigger rarely results in an accurate shot in archery.  Tru-Fire, archery’s leading release brand, has introduced the new Panic-X release, designed to help eliminate an archer’s tendency to activate the trigger before being absolutely ready.

Target panic is something that plagues thousands of archers daily.  Punching the trigger is one of the many symptoms. The new Tru-Fire Panic-X is designed to help eliminate trigger punch. The Panic-X counters target panic with its Anti-Trigger-Punch Technology that actively prevents hook release by punching the trigger in a situation where trigger panic takes over. If the archer tries to slap the trigger, the Panic-X’s internal sear will not release the string, allowing a moment for the archer to reset and resume the proper shooting sequence.

On- or off-selectable, the Anti-Trigger-Punch feature can be used for training or in the field. In the off position, the Panic-X works exactly like a standard Tru-Fire release with a cam-sear design that actuates the crisp string-hook release for extremely reliable accuracy. When turned on, this feature will only allow the trigger to release the Panic-X’s capture-style hook following a smooth, constant trigger squeeze. The Panic-X ‘s trigger travel is adjustable, as is the length of the release, itself.

The Tru-Fire Panic-X also features a premium leather buckle strap with heavy-duty yellow stitching. Its patented Tru-Fire Foldback™ strap allows the release to be folded back 180-degrees. This new release also features the Tru-Fire’s patented TrapTab™ design that allows the archer to secure the release to their wrist with one hand.

The Tru-Fire Panic-X is available at retailers nationwide or conveniently online at www.trufire.com for suggested retail price of $149.99.

About Tru-Fire

Tru-Fire is the world’s largest manufacturer of bowhunting releases, and all of its products are proudly made in the U.S.A. Every Tru-Fire release is designed to provide years of trouble-free use and dependability. Before any new design can wear the Tru-Fire logo, it is tested extensively on the company’s exclusively designed pneumatic release tester that can automatically load the release to 100 lbs. for 5,000 consecutive pulls, then an additional 100 pulls at a staggering 200 pounds. The release is then live fired 2,000 times to evaluate component fatigue and string loop wear. All of this testing proves that your Tru-Fire release will be absolutely reliable the moment you need it most. For more information on the company or its products, write to: Tru-Fire, 101 Main Street, Superior, WI 54880; call 800-282-4868 or visit www.trufire.com.

Kentucky Lake Hobie Bass Open: June 9-11, 2017

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Open to Public, All Kayak Name Brands are Welcome
  • Anglers Practice CPR on Hot Bass Fishing Water
  • Key on Shallow, Deep, and Ledge Drop-off Hotspots
  • Angler Skills will Feature Plastic Baits, Top-water and Crankbaits

By Forrest Fisher

Anglers will test the Kentucky Lake waters shallow and deep to find the hot bite.  Forrest Fisher Photo

At last year’s Hobie Bass Open, the camaraderie among competitors and respect for each other was a vital surprise to me, a first-time visitor to the Kentucky Lake event.  Ron Champion and Matthew Scotch punched their tickets to the Hobie Fishing World Championship.  They took on different strategies.  One ran long and the other fished local.  They were both winners.  What will it take to grab a hotly contested qualifying spot this year?

Kayak anglers from all around the country will fish nearby, some will venture long distances to their secret fishing places, all in search of big bass for this catch, photograph and release tournament. Forrest Fisher Photo

We’ll find out soon.  The 2017 Hobie Bass Open qualifier for Hobie Fishing Worlds 7 will be held at Kentucky Lake Dam Village State Resort Park near Calvert, Kentucky, June 9-11, with top tournament sponsor, Kentucky Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB).

The Kentucky Lake Hobie Bass Open is part of a series of qualifying events to be held in the U.S. and Canada that will produce six Hobie Fishing World Championship spots on the North American team. First and second place winners will be invited to join Brendan Bayard and two-time Hobie Fishing Worlds champion, Steve Lessard, at the next edition of the Hobie Fishing Worlds competition at a site to be announced later.

Camaraderie and hot competition go hand-in-hand at the Hobie Bass Open. The lake offers shallow and deep embayment fishing, but anglers in recent years have scored fishing near something the lake is famous for, ledge drop-offs.  The results have been world-class fish weigh-ins. The water is big and the fishing options seem wide open.

The Hobie event on Kentucky Lake is a catch, photograph and release (CPR) tournament where anglers measure and photograph their top three bass during each of the two days, to be scored by total aggregate length – using a calibrated measurement board.  Eligible species include largemouth, spotted and smallmouth bass caught on human-powered kayaks, canoes or SUPs.

The hot bait in 2017 might be a plastic worm?  Special color?   Sky color, sunshine density, wind direction, water temperature and angler skill will spell the result for success or less. Forrest Fisher Photo

One hundred percent of entry fees will be paid out with a ratio of one place for every 10 entrants. The top prize is $4,000 based on a field of 150 kayak anglers. The first-place finisher will have his/her airfare, accommodations and entry fee to the Hobie Fishing Worlds covered, courtesy of Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park and Hobie Worldwide.

There will be raffles and prizes as well as other awards including one for the biggest bass each day. Sponsors include Hobie Polarized, Lowrance, YakAttack, Bassin’ Magazine, RAM Mounts, St. Croix, Daiwa, Power-Pole, Mustad and Gerber.

Anglers will enjoy a BBQ dinner on Saturday and an awards luncheon on Sunday.  To register (or for more information) visit:  https://www.ianglertournament.com/2017-hobie-bass-open-adult-division-fun-festival

The tournament winners circle will feature well-deserved payouts, back slapping conversations of hardships worth the effort and very few tall tales. Forrest Fisher photo

While anglers are vying for big fish all across the long lake, the Hobie Fun Fest is open to the public and will be held simultaneously along the lakeshore in Kentucky Lake State Park Village, near the dam, on Saturday, June 10, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Hobie invites all competitors to bring their families and friends to join in the festivities.  All will have the opportunity to demo Hobie fishing and recreational kayaks, SUPs and sailboats, as well as Hobie’s Mirage Eclipse stand-up pedalboard.

The 2017 Hobie Fishing World Championship US and Canadian Qualifiers has added two new events this year: the Shasta Bass Kayak Classic and the 2nd Annual IKE Foundation Celebrity Pro Am Tournament Kayak Division hosted by Hobie’s own Micheal “Ike” Iaconelli.  Ike’s event will be special.  It will be a star-studded occasion contested on the non-tidal sections of the Delaware River and includes dinner on the illustrious battleship USS New Jersey.

The full Hobie Fishing Worlds 7 North American qualifying event schedule:

Big fish and small, a 1/4 inch difference can change the standings. Forrest Fisher photo

The Shasta Bass Kayak Classic, March 25-26 – 1 qualifying spot was earned by Naoaki “Uminchu” Ikemiyagi

The Jamaica Bay Kayak Fishing Classic, May 18-21 – 1 qualifying spot

The Hobie Bass Open, June 9-11 – 2 qualifying spots

The Border City Classic, June 24-25 – 1 qualifying spot

The 2nd Annual IKE Foundation Celebrity Pro Am Tournament Kayak Division, July 7-8 – 1 qualifying spot

Since 1950, Hobie has been in the business of shaping a unique lifestyle based around fun, water, and innovative quality products. From their worldwide headquarters in Oceanside, California, Hobie Cat Company manufactures, distributes, and markets an impressive collection of eco-sensitive watercraft, with subsidiaries; Hobie Cat Australasia, in Huskisson, NSW, Australia and Hobie Cat Europe, in Toulon, France and independent distributors; Hobie Kayak Europe and Hobie Cat Brasil. These products include an ever-expanding line of recreation and racing sailboats, pedal-driven and paddle sit-on-top recreation and fishing kayaks, inflatable kayaks, fishing boats, surfboards, stand-up paddleboards and the new Hobie Mirage Eclipse™ Standup pedalboards, plus a complementary array of parts and accessories. www.hobiecat.com

Big Spring Bass: Add HOVER-ABILITY to Your Secret Fish-Catching Arsenal

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Add Spinner Bait: 3/8 oz TERMINATOR Double Gold Bade (#2 & #4.25)
  • Add Tail: Big Bite SUICIDE SHAD, BB-Kicker or Curly Tail
  • Add Stubborn Fish Solution: HOVER-CONTROL
The Terminator Colorado Willow spinnerbaits provide high vibration, their stainless steel wire frames are strong, bending for greater flash and thump, and allowing the lure rip and roll through logs, snags and vegetation. Add a paddle tail and you have HOVER-ABILITY and fish catch power.

By Forrest Fisher

Spinner baits are an incredibly effective fishing bait for black bass.  Largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass seem to be bothered by them enough to hammer them when the time to toss these is right and when the action is just perfect at the depth the fish are feeding.   Sounds like a tall prescription right?

The author added a weird color tail to the spinner bait, like this bubblegum color, for a surprise visit attack from Mister Bass.

Some things in fishing are difficult, but this one is easier than it sounds. One of my favorite spinner baits is the 3/8 ounce Terminator with two gold blades: one a Colorado number 2 and the other a willow leaf number 4.25.  Sounds particular because it is.  Spinner baits are largely about the action and flash, but in many cases, you might wonder why one spinner bait is more effective when they both appear to have the same color, size and all that. 

One of the larger secondary factors is the sound from the noise of the blades hitting each other, the wire connector, or the tail.  These baits with the “right sound” can work everywhere you fish.  Fact is, the sound works to attract fish and the fish wack them because, while they may not be hungry, they are irritated.  That’s the reason to cast them 3-4 times in the same relative place.   

Another secondary factor is the speed of your retrieve.  You will note that many recent press release news flash items about reels highlight high speed gear ratio retrieve rates.  Sometimes fast is a winner, usually, it’s not.  Not to say it might not be in some cases, but often, it’s the other way. 

Plastic tail types can be varied, but here are three that offer large difference between them to allow speed control and HOVER-ABILITY.

When the fish are not biting, if the spinner bait slows down, it is provocative and even more irritating. Fish will come out of hiding to slam your lure.  So what about “control the speed” short of slowing down your retrieve?  How can we do that?

Focus on “hover-ability” to get this right.  You add a tail.  Simple.  Many to choose from, here are three of them that I favor.  The size and length of the body are a factor, but even more an element for control is the size of the flapper.   The standard style plastic tail only slows the bait down a little bit, but the hollow paddle tails are like speed brakes.

The Big Bite Baits Suicide Shad swim bait provides a lifelike swimming action that excels on the back of a swim jig, underspin, vibrating jig, umbrella rig or a spinner bait.

Even if you try to retrieve these fast, you’ll think you have a fish on.  They resist and waggle back and forth a ton of vibration, providing substantial drag and added action to the spinner bait.  Add that they also allow the blades to rattle even more!  Amazing addition when the time to try this demands a S-L-O-W action that hovers.  Two of my favorites that I can afford to buy several colors for come from Big Bite Baits at Tackle Warehouse, this place is becoming one of my most visited tackle site sources. (http://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Big_Bite_Baits_Suicide_Shad_Swimbait/descpage-BBBSS.html)

The Suicide Shad and the BB-Kicker are paddle tail HOVER CONTROL GIANTS in my book.  They each offer a different action because of their width and length, and maybe a larger factor, the floatation influence of the tail. 

Designed with a thinned-out central body, but with an extra-thick boot tail, the backside of the Big Bite Baits BB Kicker swim bait creates big momentum when it swings, adding a heavy, hard-pounding action with vibration.

Add it to the spinner blade hook by carefully threading it on so it is perfectly centered, toss it out, let it sink to your desired depth, start your retrieve.  Slam!  Wack!  Happens often.   Switch between all three of the tails shown and see how the lure action is altered and how the delivery of these actions can change the rate at which fish inhale these baits or just swash their tail at them.

You will discover an amazing learning experience. 

Eastern Lake Erie Fishing Hotline

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Erie, Chautauqua & Cattaraugus County Fish Report thru May 5, 2017 – from NYSDEC

  • Perch: Hot Bite between Cattaraugus Creek and Sturgeon Point
  • Crappie: Chautauqua Lake open water bite slow, canal action is fair
  • Inland Trout: Look for blue-winged olives, stoneflies, Hendrickson hatches
  • Bass: Dunkirk Harbor, Buffalo Harbor, Chautauqua Lake
Lake Erie giant smallmouth bass fishing gear is the order of the day for many anglers heading to enjoy the bonanza of big bass action starting up in eastern Basin Lake Erie. Forrest Fisher Photo

Eastern Lake Erie & New York State Harbors

Anxious Lake Erie boaters have been launching out of some sites, while others launches remain closed. There is limited boat launching at Buffalo Boat Harbor. Launch docks are in at the ramp near the restaurant, but the newly constructed launch ramps remain fenced off. Sturgeon Point is closed until a dredging project removes the sand bar at harbor mouth. At Cattaraugus Creek, Town of Hanover launch is open and launch docks are in. The State launch is also open, but launch docks are not in place. Dunkirk and Barcelona boat launches are open with launch docks in.

Anglers report a good yellow perch bite between Cattaraugus Creek and Sturgeon Point in 52-62 feet of water, with some limit catches. The hot spot has been off Evangola State Park. In other areas, there are reportedly smaller roving perch schools, so being mobile helps. Live emerald shiners are the top perch bait and have been available for dipping around the upper Niagara River.

Cooler water temperatures in Dunkirk Harbor have made for modest catches of smallmouth bass so far. Look for the bass bite to pick up with rising water temps. Some bullhead catches have been reported in Dunkirk Harbor. Yellow perch are still biting well in Buffalo Boat Harbor, but most have been small lately.

Eastern Lake Erie Tributaries

Heavy rains have all Lake Erie tributaries running at very high and muddy levels. Chautauqua County received less rain than the Buffalo area, so look for those creeks to drop back first. Steelhead catches were tapering off prior to the storm event. Look for smallmouth bass numbers in the creeks to be on the rise.

Upper Niagara River

Due to muddy creek outflows, waters are turbid along the upper Niagara River’s east shoreline. This may slow the yellow perch bite which was previously good along City of Buffalo shore sites. Perch have also been biting well in many upper river harbors and marinas. Live emerald shiners are the top perch bait and have been available for dipping in many spots.

Chautauqua Lake

The open water crappie bite has been relatively slow lately. Good sized yellow perch and bluegill have been biting well in the shallow zone, especially near weed beds. Anglers are catching good numbers of bullhead along shorelines. Low light periods are typically best, but anglers are catching them during the day as well. Worms, leeches, raw shrimp or chicken livers fished on the bottom work well for bullhead.

Inland Trout Streams

Inland trout fishing is on hold due to high water conditions, with many creeks over their banks. When creeks drop back to fishable levels, look for hatches of blue-winged olives, stoneflies and Hendrickson’s on the streams that have them. Productive offerings for spinning angers include worms, salted minnows and small inline spinners. Western New York anglers have a variety of Wild Trout Streams and Stocked Trout Streams to choose from. In addition, Public Fishing Rights Maps are available for many of the region’s best trout streams. Check out the Fishing For Stream Trout page for introductory information on trout baits, lures, equipment and fishing techniques.

Spring Trout Stocking

All of Region 9’s trout stocking waters have been stocked with at least one stocking increment. For County lists of stocked waters check the Spring Trout Stocking 2017 page. Hatchery staff are now delivering additional stocking increments for the larger or more popular waters. The following waters are scheduled an additional stocking between 4/24 and 4/28.

Cattaraugus County: Bone Run (South Valley), Harwood Lake (Farmersville).

Genesee River Angler Diary Program

DEC Region 9 Fisheries Unit will be running an angler diary program for the Genesee River during 2017, and is currently looking for anglers to keep diaries. The diarist program aims to record data for trout and bass fishing trips on the Genesee River from the Pennsylvania line downstream through Letchworth State Park from March 1st through October 31st, 2017. If you fish the Genesee River (even once) and would like to contribute your observations by keeping a diary, please call DEC Fisheries at (716) 379-6372 or email fwfish9@dec.ny.gov.

If you need more fishing information or would like to contribute to the fishing report, please call or e-mail Mike Todd (716-851-7010; michael.todd@dec.ny.gov). Good Luck Fishing!

The fishing hotline can also be heard at (716) 679-ERIE or (716) 855-FISH.

USA First-Ever Ladies Team – Ready for World Match Fishing Competition

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Six American Lady Anglers Head to Hungary
  • 2017 Ladies World Championships
  • Lady Anglers from Wisconsin, Minnesota, Florida
Qualified USA Lady Anglers, like Kristen Monroe, will represent the United States during the 2017 International Match Fishing contests in Europe.

While “match fishing” is hugely popular throughout Europe, the uniquely foreign sport and its seemingly bizarre tactics can leave even the most experienced American anglers scratching their heads.

Please don’t confuse something merely unfamiliar with a sport that’s in any way simple or unsophisticated, to the contrary, a quick search of the Internet or trip to the library will reveal an entirely new world of highly evolved angling complexity called “match fishing!”

Match fishing competitions find participants confined to small areas, or pegs, along a bank, with the goal of catching the heaviest combined weight of fish during a prescribed time period.  Equipment and tactics are highly advanced and vary depending on the venue and available species.

USA Ladies Team Coach, Attila Agh, explains time-honored match fishing rigs to Kristen Monroe.

Top competitors catch six fish or even more per minute, over a three-hour period – all the while managing delicate tackle, adjusting presentations and continually metering precise quantities of ground bait into the water to attract fish and keep them feeding.  Adding to the apparent madness, competitors often employ tiny size 16-20 hooks to target fish less than four-inches long, but must be ready to battle larger fish like carp on the same gear.

Six accomplished female anglers will represent the United States at the 24th Annual Ladies’ Match Fishing World Championships in Szolnok, Hungary, on August 26 and 27 of this year.  The first-ever USA Ladies Team has been assembled by the United States Angling Confederation (USAC), a non-profit organization granted authority to host and participate in World Championship Sport Fishing events through a varied network of international partnerships.

The team consists of Barb Carey, Hannah Stonehouse Hudson and Kristen Monroe of Wisconsin, Elise De Villiers and Penelope Smit of Florida, and Shelly Holland of Minnesota.  De Villiers and Smit are veteran match anglers, while Carey, Holland, Hudson, and Monroe will be competing in Hungary for the first time.

“Each of these outstanding women were selected for the team on their unique, individual merits,” says USAC’s U.S. Freshwater Fishing Sports Director, Mike McNett.  “These are all skilled anglers and Barb, Hannah, Kristen and Shelly are also established fishing industry professionals, which is a great help when it comes to generating the industry interest and support necessary for a new team. Elise and Penny have a good deal of competition experience and will be a tremendous help to the other ladies in shortening their learning curve and getting them ready to compete.”

“We don’t expect miracles,” says Team Coach, Attila Agh, a lifelong match angler from Hungary who moved to the United States 17 years ago and has since become a U.S. citizen. “Our competition has been fishing in this way for their entire lives, but I am very encouraged by the spirit our ladies are showing, their angling ability and their competitive nature.  They are learning the necessary skills that are new to them, and progressing quickly.” Coach Agh warns the international competition not to count the American ladies out.

The team agrees.

“It’s a real treat and privilege to be learning this new style of fishing with the goal of competing on an international stage,” says Barb Carey, founder of WI Women Fish.  Carry has, herself, been teaching people to fish for many years. “I guess the shoe’s on the other foot now!  We really want to be competitive, so we’re learning and practicing our new skills almost every day.”

De Villiers, who started her match-fishing career in the United States nearly 20 years ago, coached and fished on the South Africa ladies team in the FIPSed World Championships in 2012 and 2013.  “I’m very excited that the U.S.A. will have a team competing in Hungary this summer,” she says. “I’m enjoying getting to know these other wonderful ladies and helping to prepare them however I can. I’m extremely proud to be representing Team USA.”

In addition to maintaining a rigorous training schedule, the USA Ladies’ Match Fishing Team is raising money to offset equipment, training, travel and competition costs leading up to the competition in August.  Individuals and businesses interested in helping the team financially, are invited to make tax-deductible donations of any amount at http://www.gofundme.com/team-usa-ladies-match-fishing.

Bronze ($500), Silver ($1,000) and Gold ($2,000) level sponsorships providing sponsor logo placement and other various forms of recognition are also being offered.  Visit http://www.teamusafishing.org for more information, or join the conversation on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TeamUSALadiesMatchFishing/.

Media Contact: Hannah Hudson, Hannah@stonehousephoto.com

 

Firearms Industry Economic Impact is UP 168% since 2008

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Pittman-Robertson excise taxes for wildlife conservation UP 138%
  • State Business Tax Support UP 107%

The National Shooting Sports Foundation reports that the total economic impact of the firearms and ammunition industry in the United States increased from $19.1 billion in 2008 to $51.3 billion in 2016, a 168 percent increase, while the total number of full-time equivalent jobs rose from approximately 166,000 to more than 300,000, an 81 percent increase in that period, according to a report released April 10, 2017, by the National Shooting Sports Foundation® (NSSF®), the industry’s trade association.

On a year over year basis, the industry’s economic impact rose from $49.3 billion in 2015 to $51.3 billion in 2016, a nearly 15 percent increase.

“Our industry is proud of its strong contribution to our economy as a growing number of Americans have chosen to exercise their fundamental right to keep and bear arms and to safely enjoy the shooting sports,” said Stephen L. Sanetti, NSSF President and Chief Executive Officer. “In response to that growing market, we have increased our direct workforce dramatically over the last decade, adding jobs that pay an average of more than $50,000 in wages and benefits.  

In addition, since 2008 we increased federal tax payments by 156 percent, Pittman-Robertson excise taxes that support wildlife conservation by 138 percent and state business taxes by 107 percent.”

“The Firearms and Ammunition Industry Economic Impact Report: 2017” provides a state-by-state breakdown of job numbers, wages and output covering direct, supplier and induced employment, as well as federal excise taxes paid.

Check out the data in this report: http://www.nssf.org/share/pdf/2017_Economicimpact.pdf.

 

 

Thermal Riflescopes from Pulsar (Part 1of 2)

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Can Detect Heat Signatures more than 1,000 Yards Away
  • Works Both Day and Night
  • Picture-in-Picture Digital Zoom

By Forrest Fisher

All Apex riflescopes feature proprietary Picture-in-Picture digital zoom, letting shooters maintain a wild FOV while placing precise shots with confidence, 10 electronic reticles and 3 rifle profiles with 3 zeros per profile.

If you attended the SHOT Show earlier this year and you are a long-distance varmit shooter, the popular Apex line of thermal riflescopes from Pulsar was impressive.  Here is the lowdown on this new line of heat-detection zoom scopes.

From Mansfield, Texas, Apex now offers four, all new, upgraded models for 2017: Apex XQ38 (PL76417), Apex LRF XQ38 (PL76419), Apex XQ50 (PL76427) and Apex LRF XQ50 (PL76429).  Featuring improved high-resolution displays and new LRF models, the Apex series continues to deliver quality thermal imaging at down-to-earth pricing for the masses.

Detecting heat signatures up to 1,420 yards away at both day and night, the Apex XQ38 displays thermal images from its 384×288 resolution, 17µm pixel pitch core on a high-quality 640×480 AMOLED display.  Continuous and stepped zoom allow shooters to zoom in on targets at .1x increments or use quick 2x, 3x or 4x stepped zoom.

After listening to feedback from users in the field, a new LRF XQ38 model was added to the Apex lineup, enabling shooters to acquire precise target distances with a built-in laser rangefinder up to over 1,000 yards away.  Both XQ38 models feature variable 2.2-8.8x magnification and 32mm objective lenses.

Perfect for long-distance shooters, new Apex XQ50 2.8-11.2×42 models boast an impressive heat detection range of up to 1,750 yards.  The LRF XQ50 includes the same, accurate built-in laser rangefinder for gauging precise distances.

All Apex riflescopes feature proprietary Picture-in-Picture digital zoom, letting shooters maintain a wild FOV while placing precise shots with confidence, 10 electronic reticles and 3 rifle profiles with 3 zeros per profile.  Two CR123A batteries help the Apex achieve a 4.5 hour battery life (with video out off).  Included with all Apex thermals are: 2x CR123A, video/power cable, wireless remote control, weaver/picatinny mount, cleaning cloth, carrying case and hex wrench.

Visit Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube to learn more about Pulsar® products.

About Pulsar : Every Pulsar device is designed, manufactured and tested to ensure demanding professionals receive the most reliable, most advanced thermal and digital night vision performance the industry has to offer. The result of Pulsar’s commitment to industry-leading excellence is consistent world-class quality, precision engineering, seamless device operation and cutting-edge proprietary software. Pulsar produces an array of advanced optical devices designed for law enforcement, security, home defense and hunting applications, including thermal imaging and digital night vision monoculars and riflescopes, night vision binoculars and goggles, rangefinders, IR flashlights and related accessories. To learn more about Pulsar, visit www.pulsarnv.com or call 817-225-0310.

 

###

Forget the Last Arrow, Focus on the Next One

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Leo’s Archer’s Dominate Accuracy Competition in NY
  • Michelle Zeller, Victoria Ruda win State Championships
  • Paul Calleri Inducted to NYFAB Hall of Fame

By Forrest Fisher

Humble trainer from Western New York, Bryan Zeller, also enjoys the rigors and self-discipline requirements of statewide competition.

The green light, the red light, the archer draws the bow string, heart pounding a bit, muscles straining a bit, remembering all the fine points to shooting an arrow that has an intended landing point.

Breath in.  Focus. Breath out. Hold.  Release.  THWACK!  

About 60 feet away, the soaring arrow ends flight, fletching’s wiggle in the distance.  It stops on a target spot that has significance for measuring accuracy skill of the shooter. 

The target center dot, the aiming point, is a mere one-inch or so in diameter, centered with a tiny “X”.

A tiny place for an arrow to find when it starts flight from a hand-held bow and arrow, especially in the setting of competition with other archers that share the same passion for shooting an arrow to find that same “X”.  It is a time for courage, a time for sharing and a time for humble thanks, win or lose.

In New York State, the competitive archery season just ended with the New York Field Archers and Bowhunters (NYFAB) State Championships in Oneonta, NY.  For individual archers that hail from Leo’s Archery Club in Western New York, observers might have to wonder what the secret is to training so well, as this group of individuals earned several titles and medals amidst heavy and stiff competition.  The group holds practice sessions at the indoor archery range located at West Falls Conservation Society in West Falls, NY, where members help each other fine tune their skills, and share learning sessions with others in the community that range in age from 5-years to 75 years old.  

A happy group of archers in training and competition, some young and not so young, enjoy the skill development sessions at the West Falls Conservation Society in West Falls, New York. Vicki Ruda Photo

NYFAB State Championships in their particular style were earned by Anthony Berti, Denton Lowe, Kiersten Mucha and Victoria Ruda.  Six other members won medals for placing in their divisions.

Happy Michelle Zeller earns a championship football during New York State NYFAB Competition. 

In the NYFAB Classic, first-place finishes were won by Denton Lowe, Kiersten Mucha, Victoria Ruda, Jon Zurek and Jim Ralston, in their respective categories.  Five other members also won medals with high rankings.

In NYFAB’s Superbowl Shoot (state-wide mail in shoot), some 20 Leo’s members competed.  Michelle Zeller and Victoria Ruda won championship footballs in their divisions.  Four other members brought home medals for placing.

In Western New York Championships held at Doc’s Archery Range, Leo’s Archer members brought home six first-place finishes in various divisions.

Also, there was a most notable lifetime achievement at Oneonta, as white-beard trainer and archery mentor for so many, Paul Calleri was inducted into the NYFAB Hall of Fame.  His friendly style and humble contributions were recognized by fellow archers for his many contributions to the organization of youth and adult archery, rules and regulations, meetings, competitive and fun shoots.  He is pictured with fellow Hall-of-Famer, Mark “doc” Irlbacher.

Bryan Zeller and his team of trainers have mentored kids and adults alike to discover and share in the fun of archery.  Zeller says, “Some of our students just enjoy a once-a-week shoot with us, some continue to want more and step up from simply shooting the bow for fun to try their hand at some of these competitions, a truly significant test of their developing skills.  Win or lose, they are all winners in my eyes.”     

White-beard archery mentor, Paul Calleri, was inducted into the NYFAB Hall of Fame, he is pictured here with fellow Hall-of-Famer, Mark “doc” Irlbacher.  Vicki Ruda Photo

With a warm-hearted training approach like that, maybe the reason for the success of this group under the pressure of competition is not difficult to understand. 

Hats off to all of Leo’s Archery Team from Western New York.  

Rocky Mountain Warhead Broadheads for Compound Bows and Crossbows

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Deployment System is Durable, Deadly,
  • Stainless Steel Blades
  • Inexpensive: Under $20 for 3-Pack
The Rocky Mountain Warhead features an aluminum ferrule with a 1.75-inch cutting diameter and a cut-on-contact tip blade design that starts working the instant it makes contact.

From Superior, Wisconsin, a well-known name in the archery broadhead market, Rocky Mountain, debuted its new product line at the ATA in Indianapolis this year.  As part of the new line up, Rocky Mountain introduced the new Warhead, a 100-grain 2-blade cut-on-contact mechanical broadhead with wing blades for superior hide penetration and bone breakage. Once inside the animal, the wing blades of the Warhead force open two larger blades providing deep penetration and massive wounds.

The Rocky Mountain Warhead features an aluminum ferrule with a 1.75-inch cutting diameter and a cut-on-contact tip blade design that starts working the instant it makes contact.  The Warhead’s jackknife blade-deployment system will not open until the blades have made full contact with the animal, making broadside and even angled shots more deadly.  With its aluminum ferrule and durable 0.035-inch-thick stainless steel blades, the new Rocky Mountain Warhead slices through hide and soft tissue on contact, yet it has the strength and sharpness to bust through bone.

Available in standard 100-grain, the Warhead is easily identified by its black ferrule.  An anodized orange ferrule identifies the 100-grain WarheadX version for crossbows.  The new Rocky Mountain Warhead and WarheadX are available at retailers nationwide and conveniently online at www.huntrockymountain.com.  Suggested retail price is $19.99 for a three-pack.

The Warhead’s jackknife blade-deployment system will not open until the blades have made full contact with the animal, making broadside and even angled shots more deadly.

Headquartered in Superior, Wis., Rocky Mountain is a wholly owned subsidiary of FeraDyne Outdoors. For more information on Rocky Mountain, visit www.huntrockymountain.com; or write to 101 Main Street, Superior, WI 54880; or call 866-387-9307.

Walleye in Lake Erie – Fishery Movement and Study

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Fish are Tagged, Electronically Monitored for Movement
  • Angler Reward System ($100)
  • Cooperative Study: Great Lakes Acoustic Telemetry Observation System (GLATOS)

By Forrest Fisher

Biologists throughout the Great Lakes are using science and technology to help understand the mysteries of Great Lakes fish, their health and their seasonal movements. NYSDEC Photo

Trained biologists and technicians implant acoustic transmitters to understand fish movements and how they relate to fishing effort and harvest. 

Walleye, lake trout and musky in eastern Lake Erie are netted, identified, tagged with a transmitter and released, then monitored to determine preferred spawning areas and habitat. 

The tagged fish are monitored by a network of acoustic receivers throughout Lake Erie.  Orange external loop tags identify fish that contain acoustic transmitters and offer a $100 reward when returned by an angler. 

This is one of 12 programs that the NYSDEC Lake Erie Fisheries Unit is has provided staff and study toward research and management of objectives for Lake Erie, Chautauqua County and Region 9 in New York State.

For many decades, knowledgeable eastern basin anglers (Russell Johnson, Elma, NY) pondered the idea with angler groups that walleye from the western basin might travel long distances and move to the eastern basin during summer weather to feed on plentiful rainbow smelt, emerald shiners and alewife schools of baitfish.   The color and shape of the migrating fish was slightly different in appearance according to some anglers in the late 1970’s.  Today, the 2010s plus, the forage base adds in the vast population of the round goby family.  Every predator fish seems to find this plentiful resource, perhaps an invasive species godsend that was not accepted as a stable forage base upon it’s early discovery a decade or two ago.

Trained biologists and technicians implant acoustic transmitters to understand fish movements and how they relate to fishing effort and harvest.  NYSDEC Photo

Today, we know from early metal fin-tagging studies and angler report data that walleye in the Great Lakes are known to move long distances through multiple fish and wildlife management jurisdictions.  Understanding fish movements and how they relate to fishing effort and harvest is essential when managing a complex, valuable, multijurisdictional fishery such as the Lake Erie walleye fishery.  Today, this can be accomplished in a more dynamic manner and in real time with in-the-water migratory data collection.

Beginning in spring 2015, New York State DEC biologists started to deploy acoustic receivers in the eastern basin of Lake Erie to monitor the timing, magnitude, demographics, and spatial extent of the western basin walleye migrants tagged on western basin spawning areas by Ohio DNR. Additionally, acoustic transmitters were surgically implanted into walleyes from eastern basin spawning aggregations to estimate spawning site fidelity and movement patterns of individual eastern basin spawning stocks.  

Orange external loop tags identify fish that contain acoustic transmitters and offer a $100 reward when returned by an angler.  NYSDEC Photo

The relative contribution of eastern basin walleyes to the mixed-origin fisheries in the eastern basin will be assessed by implanting acoustic tags in walleye captured in the eastern basin summer fishery.  Acoustic receivers are placed on known spawning areas in the spring and deployed in four lines spanning the eastern basin from north to south to monitor summer and fall movement.  Existing acoustic lines in the western and central basins will allow detection of the westward movement of walleye tagged as part of this study.

Participating organizations include New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Great Lakes Fishery Commission and Michigan State University.

Acoustic transmitters were surgically implanted into walleyes from eastern basin spawning aggregations to estimate spawning site fidelity and movement patterns of individual eastern basin spawning stocks. NYSDEC Photo

Project personnel are many, but key investigators include Jason Robinson (New York State Department of Environmental Conservation) – jason.robinson@dec.ny.gov; Don Einhouse (New York State Department Of Environmental Conservation); Chuck Murray (Pennsylvania Fish And Boat Commission); Tom Macdougall (Ontario Ministry Of Natural Resources And Forestry); Chris Vandergoot (United States Geological Survey); John Dettmers (Great Lakes Fishery Commission) and Charles Krueger (Michigan State University).

The project is set to run from January 2015 through January 2019, receiving funding from the New York State Environmental Protection Fund, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Canada-Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health, United States Fish and Wildlife Service and Great Lakes Acoustic Telemetry Observation System. Federal and International tax dollars are at work here for a worthy environmental cause.

The information contained in this article and more information on these and other Great Lakes acoustic projects is available in greater detail at the Great Lakes Acoustic Telemetry Observation System (GLATOS) website.

 

 

“Big-Bite Bait” Soft Plastics: Effective, Affordable

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Part 1 of 3

  • Not Your Ordinary Soft Plastic Bait (Made in the USA)
  • How to Choose, What to Choose, How to Rig, How to Fish
  • Simple Hooks & Simple Jigs CATCH FISH
  • Tackle Warehouse has Sale Prices
Big Bite Baits are Made in the USA, they are affordable and they catch fish.

By Forrest Fisher

No matter where you live, north or south, everybody wants a “Hot Lure”.  If you fish, you never stop searching.

Walk into any bait shop or major tackle store today and you’ll see what no one else ever thought about a few decades ago.  Soft plastics.  There are hundreds of options for soft plastic lure baits and there is an endless assortment of colors, too. 

There is also an endless assortment of soft plastic baits that cost quite a lot – this keeps kids from fishing (my view).  Kids lose a few lures and they’re off to play football or soccer.  They can’t afford it.  Enter modern technology and Big Bait Lures. 

There are 16 color offerings for the Big Bite Baits arsenal for Squirrel-Tail Worms, the tail floats, this is a sort of gismo-worm that is truly a tantalizing fish-catcher in my experience. Forrest Fisher Photo

The state of the art in manufacturing process control has allowed Big Bite Baits to produce their soft plastic lures to sell at a very reasonable and affordable price to fit the pocketbook that even kids can afford.

Big Bite Baits produces soft plastics that are soft, firm, short, long, heavy, light, stiff – or not.  Some are smell fishy and they come in an assortment of affordable forms:

  • Creature bait
  • Worm bait  
  • Craw bait
  • Jerk bait
  • Shimmering tail baits
  • Grubs, Jig Baits and more

With all the choices, there is a lot to think about.  Why?  Well, we all need a standard bait and go-to bait, and it needs to be in the right size and right color for the place we are fishing.  Fishing right is a lot about lure selection.

For best selection, we need to pick the one way we most like to fish plastic baits, because there are a lot of ways.  Depending on the soft plastic bait type selected, there are lots of options.  You can thread the bait onto a jighead, rig it on a weighted or unweighted hook, depending on if we want it to sink fast, sink slow, or if we want to cast it short or far.  Is it windy?  Is it deep?  Are there snags or is it a sandy or gravel bottom? Tree limbs?  All these things count in what we pick to use.

Whatever type soft plastic you choose, it should be selected because it will fit the fishing style you like to fish with. It will be effective where you like to fish for when you fish and it will provide some capability to remain snag free.  And, it fits your budget (why I like Big Bite Baits).

These Big Bite Bait Stand-Up FinTwist Heads are the perfect solution for presenting the Squirrel-Tail Worm.

Let’s take one example.  I went looking on-line for a new sort of plastic worm just to show the fish where I frequently cast a line that there is something different.  I skipped over to Tackle Warehouse (http://www.tacklewarehouse.com/) and there they were, something I had never seen before: Squirrel–Tail Worms for under $3 for a package of 10.  That took care of my pocketbook budget.

These worms caught me with just one look.

Designed by Elite Series Pro, Jeff Kriet, the Big Bite Bait Squirrel Tail Worm first debuted on the television show “Day-On-The-Lake”.  Kriet says, “The Squirrel Tail Worm features a fat head for easy rigging and a buoyant rattlesnake tail, offering tantalizing tail action.  I wanted a worm that had a tail that stands up.  The tail is made to float, just the tail-end of the worm.  When I shake it and pull it, whenever I hit a rock, twig or trash, that is when I’ll throw slack in my line and try to shake it without moving it.  The floating tail has a subtle, tantalizing quiver that fish can’t resist.  They will bite this bait when they won’t bite anything else.  I think this will be the best shaky head bait ever made.”

Then I clicked over to Terminal Tackle (http://www.tacklewarehouse.com/termtack.html) and there they were, hook options: worm hooks, drop-shot hooks, swim bait hooks, slip weights and jigheads of many shapes and functions.  I was looking for a stand-up head jig hook (sort of like a Shakey Head) that would work with these new worms.  There they were, a 4-pack for under $3. Their official name is Big Bite Bait Stand-Up FinTwist Heads.

How to rig the Squirrel Tail: Bend the screw retainer near the head of the worm to be relatively in-line with the hook point, then simply thread the head of the worm onto the screw retainer, adjust the angle of the worm and place the hook into the body so it is straight and in-line, and covers the hook point. Weedless and a Killer-Lure.

A short review right on their web page showed these affordable jigheads come equipped with super-sharp Gamakatsu hooks, the specially shaped head helps them stand up on the bottom and dance with the slightest twitch of the rod.  The convenient screw-lock bait keeper also allows you to rig a finesse worm (like the new squirrel tail worm) perfectly every time, and a horizontal line eye helps resists snags.  They are available in multiple sizes, but the 1/8 ounce size allows you to deliver killer finesse presentations.  The Gamakatsu hooks will deliver solid hooksets, most anglers know that.   

Cast it out, doesn’t have to be far.  Let it go to bottom, wait 5-10 seconds. Lift up slightly on your rod tip and lightly jiggle it for 1-2 seconds or so.  Wait, watch the line.  Is it moving off?  If so, set the hook, if nothing, not a problem, we’re fishing. Move the rod to achieve a tip-jiggle action and reel in about 2-3 feet as you jiggle. Right before you stop, hop the bait with a 1-2 foot rod tip swing.  Let it settle to bottom and give it complete slack line. Watch the line.  The tail is now floating vertically upward as result of your last movement. It’s quivering.  Usually, by now, the line moves off if a fish is interested. WHAM!  Set the hook.  If not, continue until you reach your feet, sometimes they are right at your feet as you fish from shore or boat.

There you have it.  Where to get started, where to get the affordable baits and hooks, how to rig it and now you need to do the rest. Get out there!

Squirrel tail worms catch all sizes, but getting kids started first with small fish and affordable, effective baits is a good idea.

 

 

 

Inshore Canals & Flats for Saltwater Fishing Fun

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Snook, Redfish & Tarpon Highlight Spring Action
  • New LiveTarget Swimbait Lures are Killer Baits
  • Use Light Line, Strong Leader
  • Incoming Tide = Angler Advantage
The new Swim Bait that has caught fire with guides and everyday anglers that fish saltwater for snook, redfish and other species, is the LiveTarget Scaled Sardine, shown here. Just throw it in and reel it back, it sinks about one foot per second until you start the retrieve.

By Forrest Fisher

Winter has not been the same this year anywhere in the country.  Minnesota lost much of their ice by early March, Tennessee and Kentucky bass and crappie fishing turned on early, and in Florida, the steady rise in water temperatures on both the Gulf and the Ocean has led to non-stop action for many anglers.  Fun fishing!

Fishing with a fishing mentor and local veteran of the Florida saltwater fishing, Jim Hudson, I have learned so much about the nature of fish habits, baitfish preferences, lures that feeding fish prefer, line color, lure color, hook size and little things that make the difference between fish on the line or no fish at all.

The short spring snook season started on March 1 and runs through April, with the size limit in Florida waters regulated by location.  In southwest Florida, the slot limits for snook is not less than 28 inches and not more than 33 inches, with a one-fish daily bag. 

Jim Hudson says, “Slot limits for speckled trout have allowed a resurgence in Florida trout numbers and even the smaller fish will slam a swim bait, making for fast and fun fishing action.”

Hudson took the time to teach me about lines, leaders and lures, using little, lightweight jigs for speckled trout, surface baits for redfish and swim-tail lures for snook.   On my first mid-morning cast toward a dock on the canal system near Ponce de Leon State Park, my LiveTarget lure hit the water and I didn’t even move the lure one-inch when a gutsy snook slammed the bait.  He thrashed all around the dock and I had trouble keeping him out of the pilings there, but the 7-foot St. Croix rod and Daiwa reel held up their end and I was able to bring the fish to the boat where Jim carefully slipped his rubber-coated (no harm) under the spirited fish.  We released the slick fighter to grow a bit bigger for next year.

The hot lure was a LiveTarget scaled-sardine swimbait, new last year, it swims just like a real live fish bait.  It’s soft and lively, is the right color, and offers a snag-free design with an above-body hook point location.  The heavy, strong, Gamakatsu EWG (Extra-Wide Gap) hook makes it perfect for big saltwater fish, but as most saltwater flat anglers know, even smaller saltwater fish will slam a big bait.  I use this rule though, big fish like big baits – they hate to waste energy.   See this video on how a bass fishing pro describes the many features of this exciting new lure:  https://youtu.be/gaNEmPQUF3c.

I picked up the two sizes that come in this color pattern, a 3-1/2 inch model (½ ounce) and the bigger 4-1/2 inch model (1-ounce) that casts into the wind with no problem.  With a unique “oscillator-design” tail, they both swim like the real thing.  I tie the lure direct with a Uni-Knot from a 4-5 foot long length of 20-pound fluorocarbon leader that is fastened to very thin 10-pound test braid with a Double Uni-Knot.

For more about this hot bait, there are two videos and more technical info about product description from our friends at Tackle Warehouse: http://www.tacklewarehouse.com/.  My basic descriptions end with, “They work.”

For more about how to tie the Uni-Knot, visit our knowledgeable fishing friends at Salt Strong in this well-done video: https://youtu.be/MtCKGnZwOb0.  Salt Strong offers many excellent fishing tip videos and a “How-To-Fish” training course that is among the best I have ever viewed.

Some of the “smart-angler” folks use the FG-Knot to tie their braid to the fluorocarbon leader, but I have always used the Uni-Knot because it is easier to tie, though the FG Knot is smaller in physical size.  This might be important if you fish with a Reaper fishing rod, which offers a high-performance rod guide that enables truly long casts and you want to keep the knot friction to an absolute minimum.

Jim Hudson has used the same LiveTarget swimbait lure for fast action along the saltwater front and hooked into other species.   Hudson adds, “Don’t be afraid to add a little red color from a magic marker near the throat section of any lure when action is slow and the water is super-clear, this can make a difference.  Then just rub a little fish-scent over it to hide any offensive odor.”

Local anglers and many guides use a cast net to capture live pilchards and pinfish, then tail-hook the live bait with a circle hook and toss into the incoming tide current with the same line-rod-reel rig.  This set-up will usually fool even the most finicky fish and the circle hook prevents gut hooking so the fish can be released unharmed.

Using the LiveTarget swimbait lures also allows the fish to be released unharmed, since the EWG hook is set around the jawbone of the fish.  Kayak anglers, boat anglers or wading anglers can effectively and successfully throw this bait.  In the salt, you could get a new arm-stretch and rod-bend very soon.

The mullet color in the LiveTarget swimbait lure is especially made as an easy-to-catch forage species for several larger predator species such as Redfish, Snook and Tarpon.

Right now, the redfish are schooling, the snook are moving into shore-fishing canal zones and under the piers at night, and the sheepshead have been schooled and active for about 6-7 weeks now.

Releasing the little ones….fishery conservation measures have allowed the Snook fishery across Florida saltwater zones to regain their predator prominence with slot limit and bag limit regulations. Jim Hudson Photo

The sheepshead prefer live bait shrimp pieces fished off a 2-hook chicken rig or a simple red-head jig hook.

For redfish, switch your swimbait to the new LiveTarget mullet color and hang on.  This is a species-focused bait color that can tear up a tight fish school.  Fish on the feed will race to get the bait first.  On the right day, action like that is in the memory book for all time.

Local tackle shops carry the bait if you need it right now, but sometimes they might not have the favorite colors you want.  When fishing the Gulf of Mexico southwest Florida, I always stop in to Fishing Frank’s Bait & Tackle on Tamiami Trail in Port Charlotte, Florida.  The staff submits copy to four different periodicals each week! They also sponsor a radio show and are in the swing on where to go and what to fish each day. 

If you can’t find your “right color”, then hop on-line and head for our friends at Tackle Warehouse: http://www.tacklewarehouse.com/. 

“Big swim baits catch big fish, big fish will not waste energy feeding 20 times when they can feed once and be done,“ says Jim Hudson.  He ought to know, this Georgia native, now Florida resident, catches more fish from the salt than anyone I know.  Anglers in the know, share with others that want to learn.  Hats off to Hudson, since I always want to learn.

Tight lines.  

 

 

IFA Redfish Tour – $30,000 Top Prize, in Charlotte County, Florida

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

The Inshore Fishing Association (IFA) opened the 2017 Redfish powerboat competition year in Punta Gorda, Charlotte County, Florida, with 89 angler teams looking for the top prize. Steven Phillips cashes in on the $500 big fish prize with his 7.78 pound Redfish. Forrest Fisher Photo

• Brandon Buckner & Mark Sepe Win $30,000 Top Prize
• Micro-Power Pole was Key for Heavy Wind
• Schooled Fish: In Sandbar/Grassbed Potholes
• Scented Soft-Plastics and Topwater Baits Most Effective

By Forrest Fisher
The weather provided an extra challenge for competitive Redfish anglers as the 2017 Inshore Fish Association kicked off the Redfish powerboat tournament season on Saturday, March 4, 2017, in the surprisingly clear Gulf of Mexico waters near Punta Gorda, Florida.

The surprise factor for the day was the screaming northeast wind at 25 to 40 mph, unusual for this part of Florida, as it caused thunderous waves to crash the famed “West Wall” of Charlotte Harbor and farther south to Pine Island Sound. The breezy airstream forced the hardy redfish anglers to head for shelter and cover, but they had to run the surf to get there. Many took the time to battle the wave crests and power their rigs from Laishley Park in Punta Gorda to quieter Charlotte County waters near the small island paradise and discreet shoreline structure of Turtle Bay and Gasparilla Sound, near Placida.

Brandon Buckner and Mark Sepe took home the big prize with their two top fish tipping the scales at a whopping 14.57 pounds on the troublesome weather day when, unlike practice day, many anglers had trouble finding fish.

The top prize for the winners was impressive, cashing in their fish bag for a brand new RB190 Ranger boat, Mercury 4-Stroke motor, Minn Kota Trolling motor, Hummingbird Helix Sonar, cash and more, for a total purse of $29,530. The top five places also took home a $50 gift certificate from Boca Bearing. Because Buckner and Sepe had a boat equipped with a Power Pole and they won the tournament, they also won an additional $400 check from Power Pole. Both said they would not have been able to catch a fish on this day without it.

Brandon Buckner and Mark Sepe with their two top fish tipping the scales at a whopping 14.57 pounds, took home the top prize that included a brand new Ranger boat package and cash worth nearly $30,000. Forrest Fisher Photo

Buckner and Sepe methodically fished potholes they found on sandy bars and grass flats, using a Micro Power Pole to assure their boat-holding position, attributing a large part of their win to the efficiency of their Power Pole. Buckner said, “My partner was definitely the vacuum cleaner on the front of the boat, I was just the key net man. We used soft plastics and jig heads, casting and retrieving through the potholes and wind.” Mark Sepe added, “We especially want to thank Power Pole, Yamaha, Costa Del Mar and Bossman Boats.”

The Budweiser team of Chris Slattery and Dave Hutchinson took home 2nd Place with 14.23 pounds for a $4755 cash prize, catching nine Redfish through the day on gold color lures. They explained that several boats fished near them through the day, but that they had dry shore on one side and were able to control their fish zone very well that way.

The competitive field was comprised of 89 power boat teams vying for top honors. The weigh-in was exciting with a well-supported local crowd cheering on the hearty anglers, some with sore backs, as they came to the scales. Some fishermen travelled to compete from as far away as Houston, Texas.

Third place went to Matt Tramontana and T.R. Finney with 14.17 pounds good for $2141 cash prize, fourth place to Karl Butigan and Steven Phillips with 13.99 pounds, good for $2141 – and Phillips landed an extra $500 for the biggest redfish of the day; fifth place went to Ryan Rickard and Dustin Tillet with 13.66 pounds good for $2188 that included a payout from the Angler Advantage prize pool.

In all, some $49,134.24 was paid out to the top 17 teams in merchandise and prizes for this Punta Gorda event.

Redfish Tournament Weigh-in
All the redfish entered were checked for legal size prior to weigh-in, with all of the fish maintained alive and returned to the harbor waters to fight another day. Forrest Fisher Photo

Colorful tournament director, Eric Shelby, had the crowd ooh-ing, ah-ing and cheering, holding their attention with details as he introduced each angler team that entered the weigh station. Anglers placed their fish in a special live-fish bag, then into a life-sustaining aerator tank before they went to the length verification station and the official on-stage weighmaster scale. Many of the anglers shared an occasional humble fishing secret with local fishermen and onlookers.

All the fish entered were released back to the Peace River waters of Charlotte Harbor above the Route 41 bridges to live another day. Conservation is alive and well with IFA competitors and it is only proper in this case here, as Punta Gorda leads the state in developing juvenile fisheries habitat with their highly successful Reef Ball Project for public piers, private docks and open water. Proof that the county, the state and the fishermen are conservation-minded and work together to accomplish their goals in Punta Gorda and it’s working.
Fishing techniques and tactics were simple for many of the anglers. Gear was simple too, but the gear was top of the line that typically included 7-foot long fast-tip rods, open-face ball-bearing spinning reels, 12-20 pound test braided main line, fluorocarbon leaders of 10-20 pound test and strong knots.

Kyle Potts and Shane Erhardt Team Tito's
Team Tito powered by expert anglers, Kyle Potts and Shane Erhardt, who received family weigh-in support here, made a 20-mile one-way run to catch 12.90 pounds in waters protected from the nasty wind for a 9th place finish.. Forrest Fisher Photo

Kyle Potts and Shane Earhart, among top fish-catchers for the day, shared fishing day details that were common for many other anglers, as well. Potts says, “We made about a 20-mile run from port in the morning, first fishing the East Wall side before crossing the harbor, the harbor was pretty rough. We fished sandy and grass-bottom potholes in one to three feet of water.” When asked about their fishing gear, Potts added, “We like our Dan James custom rods with Shimano Stradic CI-4/4000FA reels and 10-pound test braid to throw Berkley Gulp 6-inch jerk baits.”

Brandon Spears Eddie Parrot
Brandon Spears and Eddie Parrot caught a large mixed bag of fish that included redfish, speckled trout and snook using Berkley Gulp jerkbaits with lightweight jigheads. Forrest Fisher Photo.

Eddie Parrot and Brandon Spears fished about 20 miles to the north and west, near Placida, weighing in 12.14 pounds for 13th place.  Parrot shared, “We used our Ranger 16-foot Phantom, Berkley Gulp plastics and top-water lures, 12-pound braided line with short one-foot fluorocarbon leaders of 20-pound test to catch fish.  We use a Bimini Twist for attaching the braid to the fluorocarbon, then a Palomar knot to attach the lure.  We caught a nice mixed bag of 6 redfish, 8 speckled trout and a nice snook.  One really important thing here, without our Power Pole, the day would have been lost in this wind.”  Spears added, “The 3-4 inch Berkley soft plastics with 1/8 ounce jig heads were effective, though we also used weighted hooks for some of the soft baits and had a nice day out there.”
Eric Shelby said, “The winning teams did well to score like they did.  This was a tough day for fishing.  During practice day, these guys caught hundreds and hundreds of fish, today the strong northeast winds have moved the water far offshore and has made getting into the backwaters a lot tougher.  Most of the guys ran north toward Gasparilla with the wind.  The boats are launched sequentially in the morning to avoid accidents and the anglers have a 15 minute grace period when they return before penalties are incurred.  It was nice to see the local crowd here to support the event.”

For more in the Inshore Fishing Association (IFA), visit: http://www.ifatours.com/.

White Deer Foresee Good News for Future

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

White Fawn

• White Male Deer, White Female Deer, Come Together
• Indians Say this is Sacred and Special Sign

By Forrest Fisher
People everywhere are interested to see distinguished nature in the wilderness, white deer are one of those precious resources that create a sacred and reciprocal bond with nature for many of us. White deer are awe-inspiring with their simple, raw beauty.

In East Aurora, New York, photographer Theresa Meegan has introduced the nature world to the 10-year old Albino deer that has lived in this village and is frequently seen by passers-by that slow their vehicles to take a double look at the beautiful animal. The deer provides a true measure of special life in nature that survive in the wild outdoors and live long lives.

Now imagine hundreds of white deer, wild in nature, that live in deer herds all in the same place. That would be nearly incomprehensible, right? But there is such a place, though the white deer there are not Albino. The white deer found at Seneca Army Depot in central New York are a natural variation of white-tailed deer which normally exhibit brown coloring.

The Seneca White Deer are leucistic, which means they lack all pigmentation of the hair, but have the normal brown-colored eyes. Albino deer, which lack only the pigment melanin, have pink eyes (or blue eyes) and are extremely rare – like the one in East Aurora.

The Seneca White Deer interbreed freely with the brown deer in the former U.S. Army Seneca Depot there and appear to share the habitat equally. The ambassador to save the white herd at the Depot has been an old outdoor friend, Dennis Money. The Depot was a fenced-in area that kept these deer together as a giant family where hunting was usually not permitted, except for management purposes several decades ago way back to the years after World War II.

The Seneca white deer now number about 200 of the approximately 800 whitetail deer within the old Depot fence. The future of the deer, as well as the rest of the wildlife in the former Depot Conservation area had been dependent on how the Seneca County Industrial Development Agency (IDA) decided to use the 10,000 acre site, previously released for public sale by the Army. Concern by outdoor lovers of the special deer breed was high.

For about a decade or so, the home range of this special white deer herd was at risk of commercial development. The species would have been eliminated over future years, but today, the world’s largest herd of all-white deer has a new champion with Earl Martin, the new owner of the Depot land.

Martin, owner of Seneca Iron Works and Deer Haven Park LLC in Seneca Falls, bought the 7,000-acre site earlier this year, located within the Seneca County towns of Romulus and Varrick. His $900,000 offer included saving the celebrated deer herd and was unanimously approved by the Seneca IDA. That was good news that made all of the laborious and extended extraordinary efforts of Dennis Money worth all the effort. Money and Martin have saved the special deer herd.

Martin has arranged to plant more vegetation to make sure the deer have enough to eat, engaged repairs to the miles and miles of chain-link fence that surround the property, hired an ecologist to survey the land and to come up with an overall plan to ensure the white deer herd’s survival, and he has increased security patrols to keep poachers off the land.

Learn much more about the nature of this special deer herd, including how to visit the area and be charmed and inspired by these deer, visit this link: http://senecawhitedeer.org/.

According to the site, Native Americans have a long history of respect for white deer which are sometimes referred to as the ‘ghost deer.’ The Lenape Indians have a white deer prophesy. Here is an oral translation of that prophesy: “It has long been predicted that there would come a time when a white male and white female deer would be seen together, and that this would be a sign to the people to come together.’

They were way ahead of us. Despite issues that we see as a nation trying to rebuild in many ways, it seems high time for people to come together.

Deepwater Amberjack Attack!

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

• Sanibel Island & Fort Myers – Hot Winter/Spring Fishing
• Yellowtail Fishing – Like Munching Popcorn, Want More!
• Offshore Structure, Forage – Where Fish Giants Grow

By Forrest Fisher
“Good morning! Welcome aboard!” Captain Ryan Kane said in a confident and cheerful voice. “Welcome to Sanibel Marina. It’s going to be a great day, the weather is perfect. Meet my first mate, this is Kasey, he is also a charter captain.”

The morning sunrise provided a splash of orange and yellow color, there were beautiful long shadows, birds were tweeting the way God intended, baitfish were slurping about on the surface everywhere, and an occasional dolphin could be seen just under the surface too. Another great winter day in southwest Florida was awakening. The sweet smell of morning saltwater fog was lifting above the quiet waterfront at Sanibel Marina in Lee County, Florida, near Fort Myers.

As Captain Kane (Southern Instinct Charters, www.southerninstinct.com) turned the ignition key to start his three (yes, three) 250 HP Yamaha 4-stroke engines on the transom, we knew this day would somehow be special. Captain Kane maneuvered the sleek 36-foot center-console Contender from the boat slip to the nearby bait shop dock to pick up his regular order of 10-dozen large live shrimp. The 50-gallon aerated saltwater bait-well was ready.

Just then, a humble voice with a giant sea-experience smile beckoned us to join him for a short talk about fishing details for the day. First mate, Kasey Szereski, had fishing gear in hand as he explained how the rods, reels and lines would be rigged for the fishing day ahead. He kept it simple, “We’re going to use lightweight jigs, simple chicken rigs and our secret chum to attract and catch Yellowtail Snapper,” he said. He voice bolstered confidence.

We were on board with good friends from Western New York, Bill Hilts and his beautiful wife, Sandy, and all of us were really happy that we could finally find some time to get together in the outdoors with a fishing line in the Florida sunshine. The first thing the girls asked was, “Is there a bathroom aboard?” Captain Ryan showed the ladies that there was a secret hold with entry from a door in front of the console that went below decks, and there was actually a walk-in “Johnny”. The girls were relieved.

Kasey continued, “We might also find some Grouper and a few other reef species of fish, including Amberjack, Cobia, Barracuda and others, sometimes sharks are nearby too. We’ll adjust to what we find and there is one thing we can guarantee, you’re going to have a great time!”

It didn’t take long to reach our destination 65 miles offshore, a communications tower rig in 70 feet of water. The water was clear and deep blue in color, and it was so smooth with little wind. Shore was not visible and it also seemed mysterious and sacred all at the same time. It was exciting.

The supporting structure at the base of the tower rested on the bottom of the Gulf, creating a matrix of fish-holding runways, complete with schools of various snapper species, blue runners, forage and all of the villains of the deep sea nearby. That included barracuda, amberjack, sharks and more.

“The fish we’re looking for are in and around the base and legs of the tower structure,” said Captain Ryan, “All we have to do is get them up here to us, so we’re going to anchor and use our secret chum to lure them out. The rest will be lots of fun for all of you.” It sounded like a great plan.

The boat was anchored with 300 feet of line and the chumming process commenced. Baitfish arrived in minutes and the fish that feed on baitfish were following. We flipped out tiny 1/16 ounce jigs with painted yellow-head jigs and live shrimp into the gentle tide current and down into the chum stream using open-face spinning reels. They were light rigs with 20-pound braided line and short fluorocarbon leaders.

It took just a few minutes for the first fish to slam the bait. From then on, it was fish frenzy. We caught fish, including Blue Runners and giant Yellowtail Snapper, most of the day. It was such fun. With either species, it took about 4 to 10 minutes to land them from the deep, they were powerful fighters. About half the time, we would get the fish half way to the boat and then a giant amberjack, cobia, shark or barracuda – some as long as 5-feet, would grab them and take off. The reels were screaming, our sore arms spoke of the rigor.

The Yellowtail were beautiful and big, some were 5 and 6 pounds each, much larger than the usual near-shore catch of the same species. These are fish that are considered among the most tasty for the dinner plate and we confirmed that the next day.

Since we were loosing so many blue runners and Yellowtail to the other predator fish, the crew decided to use one of the blue runners for a test bait trial. Using wire leader and a specially rigged hook set, the bait rig was attached to a level-wind Penn reel loaded with 200-lb test sinking line.

That worked great! We hooked up with 5 or 6 of the amberjack brutes, some of those getting chomped off by sharks. At the end of the day, Rose landed the big fish of the day, a 64 pound Amberjack, one of five or six that we played, but we lost the others, they’re a tough fish to land. She talked to the fish during the 30-minute battle in a lingo I have never heard in our 47 years of wedded bliss, “Get your silly tail in this boat, I’m a grandma, listen to me you big fish!” There might have been one or two other slurred words in there too. Then the drag would scream again, and after an arm-wrenching 30-minute battle, Kasey slipped the gap below the surface to capture the catch.

Above all this fun, we watched at least three other boats that had made the run to this offshore area, none of them had even on single hookup. Our captain knew what he doing and his expertise was plain to realize by all of us on the boat. We kept only the tasty fish, the ice cooler held several good meals.

Yellowtail Snapper fishing at its finest with my old friend, Bill Hilts (right), and two of the many fish we landed on one sunny winter day near Fort Myers, Florida.

It was an incredible fishing day and a day that all of us will never forget. That was about three weeks ago, Rose shared, “You know, I’m still flying so high from that big fish, it was so much fun.” Everlasting adrenalin moments in our memories is what having such fun in the outdoors is all about.

Winter in southwest Florida offers many opportunities and there are direct flights from many major cities to the Fort Myers airport. Just think, you could be here in a few hours just doing what you like to do.

Also nearby, there is much natural park wildlife to see, bring your camera. There is one place of special interest for history buffs, the summer homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. You can learn more about that here: http://www.edisonfordwinterestates.org/. Until we came here, I never knew these two American icons were good friends.

Life in winter can be fun if you take the time to get away from the snow. For more about the beaches and other sites to see, visit https://www.fortmyers-sanibel.com/.

Educational Fly Fishing Conference – It’s About Kids

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

• Learn Fly-Fishing, 3-Day Session, Low Cost
• For Teachers, Everyday Workers, Friends of the Outdoors
• Schooling for Adult Mentors, Community Outreach Mentors
• Science Educator, Orvis Endorsed Guide Instructor

By Forrest Fisher
The summer of 2012 – it was a good year. A very special, dedicated group of outdoor educators held the first and only national interdisciplinary fly fishing conference, and this bi-annual nationwide community outreach effort continues in June, 2017.

Designed especially for professional educators that teach school-age children, the Children in the Stream extends an invitation to community education and company training instructors alike, through an intensive 3-day conference that will train adults about the outdoors through the fun of fly fishing. The conference will introduce methods for instructors to manage effective sharing and teaching skills necessary to integrate this idea to meet curriculum requirements for community schools, organizations and company training platforms.

The course is comprised of comprehensive workshops that use fly fishing as the foundation for investigating science, math, English language arts, visual arts and community outreach. This truly unique interdisciplinary approach is possible because of the eclectic expertise of participants and the commitment from instructors.

The conference is presented by Dr. Mike Jabot and Alberto Rey. Dr. Jabot is a renowned professor in science education who is a member of NASA’s international educator’s team and who has received many teaching awards. Alberto Rey provides his extensive experience as a humble Orvis endorsed fly fishing guide, as a distinguished university professor in visual arts, and as the founder and director of a successful 18-year old youth fly fishing program.

Children in the Stream provides the instruction, materials and means of acquiring discounted equipment needed to implement the participant’s own customized interdisciplinary fly fishing curriculum or to start a youth fly fishing program in a community protocol. The truly unique programming also meets the needs of school’s that utilize common core learning standards. The instructors address how to realize the participant’s goals while working within limited budgets. The interdisciplinary workshops of the conference promote a holistic integration of conservation and community involvement that will help to nurture future stewards of our natural resources. The ultimate goal is to develop the interest of our youth for the outdoors and provide them with an appreciation and more complete understanding of their environment.

The conference is held at the beautiful Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History in Jamestown, New York. Roger Tory Peterson was an ornithologist who developed the “Field Guide to the Birds” and other field guides, and he inspired and “instructed” millions of bird-watchers and helped foster concerns for our environment around the world. In 1984, the Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History was founded in Peterson’s hometown of Jamestown, New York, as an educational institution charged with preserving Peterson’s lifetime body of work and providing environmental programming.

The conference this year will take place on June 27, 28 and 29. The cost for the three-day conference is $350 which includes instruction in the classroom, instruction in the field, fly rod outfits, fly-tying kits and reference publications. The low conference fee is available because of private grants and donations from the Dreamcatcher Foundation and the Orvis retail company.
For information about the schedule and comments about Children in the Stream by previous participants, please go to http://www.childreninthestream.com/. Please share this with a friend.

Start Early to Learn Blackpowder for 2017 Hunting Season

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

• Part 2 of 2
• CVA Video – About Blackpowder Bullets
• New Sabots vs. Old Ball Bullets, Details

By Forrest Fisher
While there are many other blackpowder firearm models that cost much more, the Optima™ Pro 209 Magnum Break-Action represented the state-of-the-art blackpowder gun building technology when I got started about a decade ago. They make the same model today with even more improvements.

To simplify blackpowder firearm use, watch this video on how to load and shoot a blackpowder rifle, it’s about 4-minutes in length, from CVA:

The Optima Pro 209 barrel is an impressive 29″ inches in length and is fully fluted at 1:28. This provides plenty of barrel to burn “magnum” charges. At the same time, the overall rifle length and weight remain comfortable and easy to handle. The firearm is furnished in the box with Dura-Bright™ fiber optic sights that are all metal, with fully protected fibers, just in case you choose not to add a scope. The fiber optics are guaranteed for life. The neat thing about the Optima family of rifles is that they offer the option of barrel length (26 – 29 inches) for special game and shooting considerations. The barrel options also include nickel or matte blue color.

Based on the volume of “blackpowder jargon” everywhere we travel, it seems the new blackpowder hunting boom took off for good and it is now accepted as another great way to hunt big game. Local stores can’t keep some popular models in stock during hunting season, which is why I’m sharing this now. Experts at local stores say, “The new break-action designs bring the bore cleaning activity into a more reasonable scheme that a larger population of hunters are now willing to accept. Before models like this, cleaning a blackpowder barrel could take an hour, now it’s only a few minutes. Big difference.”

I checked with local stores where I live in Western New York to learn more about the blackpowder grain and blackpowder pellet options. One counter gentleman was a chemist in a previous life and said, “Blackpowder is really a formula combination of many elements including salt peter, charcoal and Sulphur. It is very dirty when burned and must be cleaned from the barrel the same day it is shot or serious oxidation (rusting) will occur.” That’s why, today, the two new blackpowder substitutes, Pyrodex and Triple Seven, have become the most popular blackpowder fuels. Both made by the Hodgdon Powder Company, the Pyrodex is also available in an easy to use “Pyrodex Pellet”, with 30, 50 and 60 grain pre-formed pellets available.

With two 50 grain pre-formed Triple Seven pellets stacked in series, a 225 grain Powerbelt sabot bullet will deliver about 2000 feet per second from the Optima™ Pro 209. That’s what I use. The end of the pre-formed pellets is coated with an ignition compound for easy start once the primer is ignited by a trigger pull.

Bottom line? Muzzleloading is fun and affordable. The new in-lines will allow older black powder traditionally styled rifles to be recognized in modern focus too, thereby allowing growth of the sport. In my travels to learn as much as possible in the shortest time on this subject, I discovered a very helpful book “SUCCESSFUL MUZZLELOADER HUNTING” written by Pete Schoonmaker. The author covers all the various styles of muzzleloader guns, the different muzzleloader hunting projectiles, various powders, plus safety and proper loading techniques, including older style ignition system and the hot 209 primer ignition in-line system. The book is a 144-page paperback book with 150 color photographs through 20 chapters to include hunting strategy, planning, and identification of the most common muzzleloading problems and issues. Amazon carries the book in used versions for under a dollar. Yep, true.

Even though blackpowder shooting is over 300 years old, it is still growing! Not only is it a thrilling sport, it is fascinating too. According to field representatives at Connecticut Valley Arms, “For some hunters and shooters, blackpowder hunting opens a whole new way of life. “ I can believe that, after watching how these new firearms perform at the target range.
The use of a modern muzzleloader combines a respect for traditional American hunting standards with the technology of today. A good blend for developing and nurturing newcomers to the blackpowder world, and for an appreciation of our pioneering past.

Share the outdoors with someone that would like to know more about the outdoors, but is afraid to ask.
Be safe.

Women-On-Ice Have Fun, Catch Fish, Conquer Fear at Mille Lacs

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
All Photo Credits ©Stonehouse Photo – Hannah Stonehouse Hudson

• Women Fish Group Leads Way in Minnesota
• Ice Fishing is Giant Thrill for Lady 1st Timers
• Clam, McQuoid’s Inn, Vexilar – Key Sponsors

By Forrest Fisher

Let’s face it, walking on water is fun for everybody, especially first-time ice anglers and especially when very special travel gear is required to get there.  Folks with a physical mobility challenge rarely have a chance to consider ice fishing, but with The Women Ice Angler Project (http://theiceangler.com/) on Lake Mille Lacs in Minnesota and chief ice-fishing mentor, Barb Carey, at the helm, impossible is not in the dictionary.  Anything is possible with Carey, a humble expert angler and founder of the Wi-Women-Fish Group (Wisconsin Women Fish, http://wiwomenfish.com/) and Barb Carey Media Productions (http://www.barbcarey.com/).

For special guest team member, Ashlee Lundvall, an author, public speaker and people motivator, someone who is challenged every day to move about, there was special thrill and excitement with the thought of ice fishing.  Lundvall used her Action Track All Terrain Wheelchair (http://www.actiontrackchair.com) to get around on the ice surface and through the snow.  While the wheelchair unit can travel up to 10 miles at 3-4 mph and is electrical battery powered, after watching Lundvall, some said that the unit is powered by the Lundvall positive attitude engine.  This incredible lady angler is not deterred by adversity.

Lundvall had never been ice fishing before, so receiving an invitation from Carey was very special.  She admits that there was apprehension in consideration of her first ever ice fishing adventure and shared, “My goal was to learn everything I could.  I wheeled away with so much more than knowledge.  I gained the feeling of teamwork and empowerment, and a desire to help women everywhere (of any ability) experience the thrill of ice fishing.”

Bonnie Timm, Clam pro staff angler and participant in all three Women Ice Angler Project events said, “There were so many things I felt were ‘too big’ for me: Mille Lacs was too big, towing my snowmobile seven hours by
myself, hauling all my own gear, even leading our group across a huge ice heave.  Not long ago it all would have been ‘too big,’ but the confidence I’ve gained with this group has helped me so much.  My motivation grew even more when I met Ashlee and watched her accomplish so many things.  She lives with no fear.”

The lady icer’s with short rods and sharp hooks enjoyed accommodations in comfort at McQuoid’s Inn (www.mcquoidsinn.com), with winter service on the ice from Mac’s Twin Bay (www.macstwinbay.com).

The lady icers put the new Clam Big Foot XL6000T (http://clamoutdoors.com/) shelter to good use.  The Clam Big Foot is a hub-style, pop-up weather shelter they used for Ashlee and her Action-Track Wheelchair that provides 112 square feet of fishable area.  Access is via one side that hinges open, allowing easy entry and exit for anglers and a powered wheelchair. “Ashlee could drive right in without a barrier,” said Carey.

Carey adding, “Mille Lacs is a fish structure wonderland with so many places to fish, it was hard to choose from so many options, but with all of our shacks we had the mobility to get where we wanted to drill more holes. That’s what makes ice fishing a success.”

Mac’s Twin Bay road system built a special bridge for the group to allow the lady ice anglers access across a large crack.  While on the move to another side of the lake, the group discovered their own ice heave with open water; that put a lump in everyone’s throat—but the fear didn’t stop them.  Each was schooled in ice safety and carried picks and a throw rope.  They also carried a life-saving Nebulus, a compact bag that inflates from a CO2 canister.

The Nebulus Emergency Flotation Device (https://nebulusflotation.com) is a compact, portable life-saving tool engineered for ice and water rescue.  The Nebulus is small and light enough on a snowmobile or ATV, it inflates in seconds, helping a rescuer reach the victim quickly and pull them to safety. Fully inflated, it can support up to three adults and a submerged snowmobile or ATV.

With no mishaps, these lady anglers forged ahead using common sense and safe ice skills to carry on—and they caught big, healthy walleyes and northern pike.  Even a Tullibee, to win the dinosaur booby prize.

The goal of the Women Ice Angler Project is to encourage women to try ice fishing as well as to mentor those who already enjoy it and want to improve their skills. “The other side of what we’re doing is to move the industry forward showing more women ice anglers,” said award-winning outdoor photographer, Hannah Stonehouse Hudson.  “We’re living this incredible dream, pursuing a sport we love.  It’s good to have the stories and the photos to go with women ice fishing.”

Sponsors have access to high-quality photos for use in their social media and marketing efforts. “We’ve seen photos from previous years’ #womenonice events on product packaging, in tourism brochures, product catalogs, store banners and definitely in lots of social media,” said Rikki Pardun, Clam pro staff angler and the gal to claim the biggest fish of the weekend, a nice Mille Lacs walleye. “We didn’t measure or weigh it, just snapped a picture and released it back.”

Two Clam and Vexilar pro staffers, Shelly Holland of Oak Grove, Minn. and Shantel Wittstruck of Sioux Falls, S.D. participated.  It was year three for Holland and first year for Wittstruck.  Also new this year was Cabela’s pro staffer Karen McQuoid.  Karen and her husband Kevin own Mac’s Twin Bay out of Isle.  “We have something truly special here in this world-class fishery and I had a great time sharing my hometown lake with the team,” said McQuiod.

Special additional thanks for support from Mille Lacs Tourism (millelacs.com), Mugg’s of Mille Lacs (www.muggsofmillelacs.com), the kind folks at Vexilar Marine Electronics (http://vexilar.com/) and Hannah Stonehouse Hudson at Stonehouse Photo (http://hannahstonehousehudson.com/).

During this unusual year of warm winter, the special “a-ha” moments occur on the ice and frankly, in part because of the ice.

Lundvall may have said it best for all the women, “I can’t wait for my next time on the ice.”

 

Firearm Cleaning with Otis Ripcord

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Breech to Muzzle One-Pass Firearm Cleaning
  • Removes Entrapped Fouling Quickly 
  • For Handguns, Rifles and Shotguns

 

By Forrest Fisher

The Otis Ripcord is so effective I had to buy one for every caliber size in my firearm collection – for those many times when I shoot and don’t have enough time. © Copyright Otis Technology. All rights reserved.

When I first used this creative new invention from Otis to clean one of my favorite firearms at a shooting club, I squinted down the fouled barrel to verify my 30-06 needed to be de-fouled.  It was ugly in there.

While my buddies were fiddling with much more complicated cleaning systems, I needed to get this done quickly and assure I could deliver my grandson to his soccer game on time in the next 15 minutes.   Dropping the barrel of the cleaning cord down the rifle, I grabbed the end and pulled the cord through from breech to barrel exit.  Peering down the barrel one more time, I was amazed to find a glistening, shiny, internal bore surface. Wow.

I coiled up my 10-second cleaning kit (literally, 10 seconds), that is, I coiled up my Otis Ripcord and was on my way.  See ‘ya guys!

Easy, fast, effective and inexpensive.  When something like this fits my budget and my timetable for budgeted time, it needs to be in my collection of outdoor tools.  Some of the options offered for caliber sizes are shown below and listed on the Otis website at http://www.otistec.com/.

Horton Wins the Big Cash Elite on Okeechobee

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Tim Horton, Elite Series professional bass angler, scored big to take home a $100,000 paycheck on Sunday. Forrest Fisher photo

  • Lure: 4-inch Klone Crawsome Creature Bait
  • Color: Black/Blue Swirl or Black/Red Copper
  • Rod: 8-foot Duckett Flip Stick, Gary Klein Edition
  • Reel: Lew’s Super Duty with 8.0:1 Retrieve Ratio
  • Line: 50-pound Bass Pro Shops XPS braid
Tim Horton, Elite Series professional bass angler, scored big to take home a $100,000 paycheck on Sunday. Forrest Fisher photo

By Forrest Fisher

At fishing tournament competition events like the Bassmaster Elite Series, ordinary weekend fishing friends can choose to become virtual super-fishermen for a few hours.  They can meet and talk with the best-of-the-best bass fisherman in the world.

They can learn details about fishing rods, reels, lines, lures, boats, sonar and motors, and the why behind the choices that pro anglers make every day.

The field of professional bass anglers for the tournament started with 110 anglers, including Kevin Van Dam, Rick Clunn, Aaron Martens, Alton Jones and lots of other big names in the bass fishing world.  The competition is stiff, many of these top names were not in the final 12, but all of the competitors are so very effective and all of them want to win and perform well.

Their goal is to earn a place to play the game of tournament fishing on Sunday, Day 4, the last day of competition, when the field is reduced from 110 anglers on Day 1 to just 12 anglers on Day 4, these top 12 all set to fish for the big money.

Who fished the final day is based purely on performance, measured by their total tally for their 5-fish bag weight for each competition day.

Lake Okeechobee is big at 730 square miles.  It offers an average depth of 9 feet and is the largest freshwater lake completely inside the borders of the USA.  Grassy, marshy areas are everywhere and at this time of year, they are crowded with bass beginning to spawn in the heavy cover.

King’s Bar was a hotspot fishing area for many anglers in the lake’s north end where a shad spawn was in progress.  Tim Horton, the tournament leader after Day 3 with over 71 pounds of bass, had been running to fish near Clewiston, some 35 miles south.

The Elite Series fishing event at Okeechobee saw thousands of people bring their families and enjoy an outdoor show of large fun and proportion with outdoor example displays that included trucks, boats, motors, lures and many local craft vendors. Forrest Fisher Photo

Heavy fog on the morning of the final day delayed high speed runs for the anglers, as tournament director, Trip Weldon, defined the rules for the 12 top anglers, keeping safety first.  He limited the anglers to a top boating speed of 30 mph as they left the Kissimmee River launch area.

Ott Defoe caught early fish on the final day using a rear-weighted Terminator Walking Frog, a swim jig sort of bait with extra heavy-duty VMC hooks.  The bait allows for long casts near thick cover.  Defoe keeps his rod tip down, jigging the tip quickly and reeling quite fast with his baitcasting outfit.  Ott landed two fish at 8 lbs-6 oz each on day 1.  He said, “These fish were sort of twins, but you know, they’re bigger than when my twin children were born a few years ago.”  The crowd cheered.

Stephen Browning, an affable angler with everyone and a LiveTarget Lure Company fishing pro, often fishing frog lures too, but fishes them slower.  He also likes to fish a bladed jig with a soft-plastic trailer in green-pumpkin or black-blue.

Greg Hackney, alias “Darthvader” as nicknamed during the weigh-in interview session on Day 3, was described by the host announcer to possibly be the most feared of all competitors when it comes to the final day.  He has a habit of winning by coming from behind.

The Day 4 leader at start, Tim Horton, uses a couple of favorite baits.  He likes the ¾ ounce “Hack-Attack” jig, it has a unique head design with a built-in weed guard that works well to flip in and out of heavy cover easily.  This jig uses a Gamakatsu heavy wire hook in black-nickel color with a 30-degree line tie.   He also uses Trokar hooks to present a favorite “Klone Crawsome” creature bait in black/blue swirl or black/red copper (color), taking it to bottom with ¾ to 1-ounce BPS tungsten weights. When fished with 50-pound braid, these were ideal baits for this water because the angler could flip it, pitch it, cast it or swim it through any cover at any depth.

All these top anglers can cast a lure with amazing accuracy, able to place a line toss within an inch of a target spot 25 to 100 feet away, exactly where a suspicious mythical bass beast might be hiding in cover.

At the end of the final day, Tim Horton retained his starting lead to edge out a victory from hard-charging Ott Defoe, 83 lbs-5 oz to 82 lbs-1 oz.  The difference?  $100,000 for 1st place and $25,000 for 2nd place.  Might make you want to take up golf!  Either way, it’s inches or ounces, close call.

Rounding out the Top 12 were: Ott DeFoe (82-1), Cliff Prince (78-3), Fletcher Shryock (77-10), Greg Hackney (73-12), Dave Lefebre (73-0), Bobby Lane (72-10), Jason Williamson (69-10), Dean Rojas (68-14), Andy Montgomery (67-12), Stephen Browning (67-5) and Adrian Avena (63-14).  These top 12 earned from $20,500 to $10,500.  Other anglers that made the day two cut – 51 of them in all, from 13th to 51st place each earned $10,000.  No paycheck for anglers that placed 52nd to 110th.

Horton won a Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Southern Open on Lake Okeechobee in 2004. He relied on his previous experience, but kept an open mind as Florida’s Okeechobee big-bass factory has been subjected to change over recent years.

The big lake has encountered hurricanes, droughts, water-level fluctuations and struggling habitat and local population argument about water control management. The vegetation provides big fish potential thanks to healthy vegetation for underwater oxygen generation, good for the forage and the predators.

Tim Horton’s favorite lure of the Okeechobee fishing week was a 4-inch Klone Crawsome made by Profound Outdoors. One of his favorite colors: black/blue swirl.

“Everything I weighed in this week was on a 4-inch Klone Crawsome in two colors: black/blue swirl and a black/red copper,” Horton said. “I rigged the creature-style baits on a heavy-duty flipping hook beneath a 3/4- to 1-ounce weight — depending on how thick the reeds were I was flipping to — on 50-pound Bass Pro Shops XPS braid.”

Horton’s fishing rod was an 8-foot Duckett Flip Stick, Gary Klein Edition, paired with a Lew’s Super Duty Speed Spool baitcaster in an 8.0:1 gear ratio.

Tyler Carriere of Youngsville, La., earned the Phoenix Boats Big Bass Award of $1,500 with a 9-5 largemouth.  DeFoe was awarded $1,000 for the leading the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year points race at the end of the event.  Bobby Lane of Lakeland, Fla., earned the Power-Pole Captain’s Cash Award of $1,000 for being the highest-placing angler who is registered and eligible and uses a client-approved product on his boat.  Horton earned $500 as the recipient of the Livingston Lures Day 2 Leader Award.

Several thousand people were on hand in the audience to cheer on all the anglers at the final weigh-in.  It was an amazing time to be a spectator, but even better if your name was Tim Horton.

For more about the anglers and their fishing gear, visit: http://www.bassmaster.com/.

Whoever said it doesn’t pay to fish? Congrats to these guys for the example they provide to all for their conservation ethic and sportsmanship.  Kids around the country look up to them and so do some of us older kids.

The temperature at weigh-in? 86 degrees!  God bless America.

Ice Fishing With Spoons – Part 3 of 4

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • How to Use Winter Spoons
  • Deadly Trick When Winter Fish get Finicky

By Forrest Fisher

Minnesota fishing guide Brad Hawthorne, an ICE FORCE pro offers his advice on several of the new spoon baits for fun fishing on the ice.

Tumbler Spoon
While the Tingler is a flutter-type spoon, the Tumbler is more of a “drop spoon,” Hawthorne says. “It does the much the same thing on the way down, but it stays a little bit more vertical,” he explains. “It will sit there right in the strike zone doing flips and rolls.”

A small, metallic attractor blade imparts additional flash and sound when it collides with the Tumbler Spoon’s body and hooks. “That kicker blade adds a little bit more for the fish when they’re right in the zone, pretty much coming to you,” Hawthorne says.

Fish Tumbler Spoons in water 25 feet and deeper. In holes where your sonar shows a walleye tight to bottom, drop it on a slack line. As soon as you drop it to the fish, use your rod tip to pop it four to six inches off the bottom and let it fall back on a slack line. “With just a very subtle jigging action, that spoon will do circles and roll around down there,” Hawthorne says.

Tumbler Spoons are available in two sizes, 1/12, 1/8 oz. Hawthorne will start with the smaller model, but will upsize if the fish are biting aggressively. He rigs the treble hook on a Tumbler with a half or full minnow.

The half-minnow presentation will cause the Tumbler to fall and spiral a little bit more erratically, Hawthorne says.  It also provides “a little bit more smell and profile.”

Despite conventional wisdom that dictates downsizing baits when fish are finicky, that’s when Hawthorne will dress a Tumbler Spoon with a full minnow.  “This has caught my clients more fish over the years than anything in a neutral-bite situation,” he says. “When you lay a Tumbler Spoon right on the bottom, the minnow will freak out and the fish explode on it.”

For more on the Tumbler Spoon: http://www.rapala.com/vmc/spoons/spoons/tumbler-spoon/Tumbler+Spoon.html?cgid=vmc-spoons-spoons#start=1&cgid=vmc-spoons-spoons.

Look for Part 4 of 4 on Ice Fishing with Spoons next week.

Ice Fishing With Spoons – Part 4 of 4

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • How to Fish Winter Spoons

By Forrest Fisher

Minnesota fishing guide Brad Hawthorne, an ICE FORCE pro, offers time-tested, fish-catching advice using several of the new spoon baits for fun fishing on the ice.

Flash Champ Spoon

Constructed of heavy-duty brass, the Flash Champ Spoon is designed to get down to the action quickly. Beveled edges and a tapered design give it an erratic, fluttering fall.

“The reason to switch to that is that it gets down faster,” Hawthorne says. “And when a fish are coming through, they can see it and hear it. It makes a teeny bit of noise from the split-ring hitting against the body, but it’s really noisy when you ting it off the rocks.”

Available in four sizes – 1/32, 1/16, 1/8 and 1/4 oz. – Flash Champs work best in clearer water. “If I was on a stained body of water, I’d stick with the Tingler or the Tumbler usually,” Hawthorne says.

For more on the Flash Champ, visit: http://www.rapala.com/vmc/spoons/spoons/flash-champ-spoon/Flash+Champ+Spoon.html?cgid=vmc-spoons-spoons#start=1&cgid=vmc-spoons-spoons.

Rattle Spoon
Hawthorne often ties on a Rattle Spoon after he’s caught a few fish by bouncing another bait on the bottom, making a racket.

“It might not be the first bait you tie on at the beginning of the day, but you’ll know pretty quickly if you should switch to it,”
he says. “If you’re banging bottom with something else and the fish are coming in and drilling it, they’re keying in on that sound.

“If they’re picking it up on rocks, gravel or sand, go Rattle Spoon all the way,” he continues. “You’re going to beat up your spoon a little bit, but you’re going to catch a ton of fish.”

The Rattle Spoon’s specially designed resonance chamber – made of heavy-duty brass and multiple beads – allows anglers to make a racket with just a subtle jig stroke, while still delivering action to the lure.

“I’m pretty sure that’s the loudest spoon on the market – the rattles on it are huge,” Hawthorne says. “When you slam that thing on the rocks, there’s not a louder spoon you’ll find.”  Rattle Spoons are available in three sizes – 1/16, 1/8, and 1/4 oz.

For more on the Rattle Spoons, visit: http://www.rapala.com/vmc/spoons/spoons/rattle-spoon/Rattle+Spoon.html?cgid=vmc-spoons-spoons#start=1&cgid=vmc-spoons-spoons.

Ice Advice for Fishing with Spoons – Part 1 of 4

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Visit with Brad Hawthorne – ICE FORCE Pro
  • When, How, Why Spoons?
  • What Line for Ice Spoons?

By Forrest Fisher

Some of the new lures on the ice-fishing market don’t exactly shake, rattle and roll, but they do have new names that remind me of that old Elvis song.

“You’ll know in the first hour if they want an eye-catcher spoon like a Tingler or a Tumbler,” says in-demand Minnesota fishing guide Brad Hawthorne, an ICE FORCE pro. “Then if they’re really actively feeding, just crushing your baits, upsize your spoon for a chance at bigger fish or switch up to a Flash Champ Spoon to get down to them faster and catch more coming through.”

Fish the right VMC spoon at the right time and place this winter and chances are good you’ll put more and bigger fish on the ice and if you notice you’re getting bites only after banging one of the above spoons on a hard bottom, tie on a Rattle Spoon.

“That’s the rule of thumb that I’ve used,” says Hawthorne, who guides on the famed walleye fishery of Lake Mille Lacs near Minneapolis, a huge glacial lake with gin-clear water, rock reefs, gravel flats and mud flats.

As popular as spoons are, many anglers still struggle with when and how to use them, and which type to use where.  Following is an in-depth look at Hawthorne’s rules-of-thumb for when, where and how to fish VMC ice spoons. For all the following, he favors gold and silver in clear water and/or daylight hours and pink and orange UV colors in stained water and/or at dawn, dusk or night.

Hawthorne fishes all his VMC ice spoons on a main line of 5-pound-test Sufix Invisiline Ice 100% Fluorocarbon line connected via VMC barrel swivel to an 18- to 20-inch leader, or “tip line” also of 5-pound-test Sufix Ice Fluoro. Adding the swivel, he says, gives the spoons better action.

For more on terminal tackle details, visit: http://www.rapala.com/vmc/terminal-tackle/?id=6.

Nosler Bullets for Plinking

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Slight Cosmetic Imperfections
  • Bullets Meet Standards & Tolerances
  • Midsouth Shooters Supply 

By Forrest Fisher

There is target ammo, self-defense ammo, hunting ammo, plinking ammo, commercial ammo and a few other categories of ammo, but when you understand ammo, the literal meaning of the ammo type is well defined.

If you are a shooter that likes to practice safety and reload your own, you know there are times you just want to go plink and plink and plink with something more than your .22, but the cost is too high.  I love to shoot my 6mm-Remington, but bullets are hard to find, when you find them, they are expensive, but not during this sale we found. They have them, I’m excited.

Thanks to a special we found on-line, there is a sale in progress at Midsouth Shooters Supply where you can buy nearly perfect Nosler bullets with simple cosmetic imperfections for more than half-off the original cost.

Nosler Factory Seconds are now available at Midsouth Shooters Supply.  The bullets are completely functional, with only minor cosmetic blemishes.  You’ll find slight tip discolorations, water spots, and little else.  Nosler’s criteria for their bullets is of the highest standards and tolerances.  When one of their bullets doesn’t meet their nearly impossible standards, it becomes a factory second.  Nearly perfect bullets look pretty great to the supplier folks at Midsouth Shooters Supply and they’re excited to pass the savings on to their valued customers.

Pricing reflects what the 1st quality bullets sell at Midsouth’s everyday low prices, and then the discounted 2nd’s price. Quantities are limited and our blemished or 2nd’s sales always go fast! Check out the selection at this link:

https://www.midsouthshooterssupply.com/articles/noslerseconds.aspx

See what your bench needs and load your own. Saving a little money is some of what reloading is about.

Looking for a Fishy Kayak?

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

New kayaks can be peddled like a bicycle or paddled like a canoe, but one factor to look for is weight capacity and seat comfort. Forrest Fisher Photo

  • How to Choose, Many Makers
  • Things to Consider, Tackle Storage
  • Peddle or Paddle?  Sit or Stand?
New kayaks can be peddled like a bicycle or paddled like a canoe, but one factor to look for is weight capacity and seat comfort. Forrest Fisher Photo

By Forrest Fisher

There is a new wave of fishing access, waterway fun and outdoor adventure that is sweeping our young-minded nation.  The portability and capability of new kayak products are more popular and in greater demand every day.  I searched out many of the kayak lines out there and concluded that when safety and durability are a function of your interest – big water (ocean) or small water (ponds), the Hobie Company has a product that everyone should know more about before purchasing any other kayak product.

There’s never been a better time to take up kayak fishing.  Whatever your game – freshwater bass or trout, saltwater redfish on the flats, or hard-pulling, aggressive fish, like kingfish and yellowtail in the big water offshore – there’s a Hobie kayak built for the job.

Every Hobie kayak comes ready to fish from the factory, but some are more ‘fishy’ than others. The current fleet offers deck plans with space to mount rod holders and electronics, hatches big enough to stash extra tackle, and spacious above-deck cargo areas in the stern, the ideal place for an H-Crate storage system or Hobie Livewell.

The 13- to 16-foot kayak models are at home on the ocean or a large lake, where the length will help glide you safely over swells and tough choppy conditions. Hobie Photo

There are compact boats, deliberately built short. Others are long and slender, or somewhere in between. Hobie’s flagships feature the MirageDrive, an elegantly engineered and time-tested pedal drive that offers numerous advantages.  Hobie also has kayaks to paddle the old-fashioned way.  They also have portable inflatable kayaks and the family-oriented Mirage Islands and trimarans with sails that work together with the MirageDrive.

Variety is good.  There is no one boat that fits everyone or is perfect for each fishery.  Every kayak is a compromise.  The right one for you depends chiefly on two things: your body size and shape and the adventure you plan to put that kayak craft through on the water.

One thing is obvious.  Bigger people need bigger kayaks.  Whether you’re tall or a bit husky, make sure to sit in the cockpit of any kayak you’re considering.  With Hobie, try out the different Vantage seats.  All are comfortable with wide-ranging adjustability.  The ST and XT seats that outfit the Pro Angler series are larger and taller, serious fishermen like these.

Don’t forget to check the capacity of the kayak.  Take your weight, estimate your gear load and add in a few pounds for the fish you’ll catch.  It’ll help you decide whether you need a 400-pound capacity kayak like the Hobie Mirage Outback or a larger 600-pound capacity Mirage Pro Angler 14.  The latter are great for big men who think like boys (like me).

A smaller person will fit in just about any kayak.  A big boat can still be a mismatch and can be too much of a good thing.

Check out the H-Crate storage system from Hobie with the above-board seating on top of this model kayak. The angler is higher for improved visibility when searching out sand bars, shoals and bedding fish. Hobie Photo

The sturdier kayak models are longer, in the 13-16 foot range, and with these, you can feel safe and comfortable on the ocean or a large lake, where the length will help glide you safely over swells and tough choppy conditions.  The Mirage Revolution 16 is one such unit that will fill the bill for safety in tough seas.  The same boat will have a harder time of handling the sharp turns of a narrow, twisting river backwater.  So it’s a good idea to match your kayak to the intended use.

In general, shorter kayaks such as the Hobie Mirage Sport are easier to turn and pivot, but aren’t as efficient for covering long distances.  Longer boats such as the Mirage Revolution 13 hold a straighter course.  Wider boats in the Pro Angler Line feel stable and support more weight, whereas narrower boats glide with less effort.   Here, you need to decide which is best for your intended use.

Every one of the Hobie roto-molded polyethylene models comes with molded-in rod holders.  They are ready to fish straight from the factory, but if you’re a serious angler you’ll love the additional features offered in the Mirage Outback and the Pro Angler series.  There are more places to mount accessories such as rod holders and camera mounts.  The Pro Anglers add horizontal rod holders and long lengths of H-Rail for mounting even more gear.

Kayak fishing has allowed growth of anglers that are bonding to the outdoors with friends and neighbors, fishing in local and regional contests, and enjoying better quality time with their own families. Hobie Photo

If storage space or transportation is an issue, take a look at the Hobie inflatable series.  They feature rugged, PVC-vinyl construction and offer performance that rivals more rigid models.  Set up takes about10-minutes.  Each one comes with an Easy-Load Rolling Travel Bag.  Some are even light enough to bring along as checked airline baggage.

There’s a lot to consider, so put in some research before buying your next kayak,but if you want safety and reliability, my choice would be with a Hobie.  Save your pennies and put them good use for your safe and fun future on the water in your kayak.

To see a Hobie, look for a dealer near you through their on-line Dealer Finder, then drop by any other local kayak hop to take a closer look at their kayaks.  Many offer demos.  Stop by an annual fishing or outdoor show where you’re likely to see kayaks rigged for fishing and can chat with kayak fishing guides for expert advice.  If you want to feel a lot younger, do what I do and get up early to visit a kayak fishing competition – there are numerous events all around the country now.

If you choose your new kayak with some foresight, it will open a thrilling new world of fishing adventure.  Enjoy!

Ice Fishing With Spoons – Part 2 of 4

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • When to Use Winter Spoons 
  • Which Type Spoons to Use 

By Forrest Fisher

While this year on hard water has been hit or miss in many parts of the North Country, we still have ice in many areas, Minnesota fishing guide Brad Hawthorne, an ICE FORCE pro, shares advice on several of the new spoon baits for fun fishing on the ice.

Tingler Spoon
This is a search bait designed to draw distant fish into the sonar cone below your hole, the Tingler Spoon features a large, thin body that flutters slowly and seductively on the fall. Its mesmerizing, wounded baitfish both attracts attention and triggers strikes.

“That one’s darting all over, grabbing a lot of attention,” Hawthorne says. “It’s the flashiest spoon we have, when it comes to twisting, turning and tumbling.”

While most spoons cover only the small-diameter water column directly under the hole, the Tingler Spoon flutters out far to the sides. Work it back towards your hole with short lifts and hops.

“The Tingler has a wide surface area at the top – as wide as any spoon I’ve used,” Hawthorne explains. “So when that thing’s going down, especially in deep water, a lot of times it’s ending up six to eight feet away from the center of your hole when it hits bottom. So you want to use the Tingler when your fish are a little more spread out.”

To work their best, Tingler Spoons must be dropped on slack line. “That means feeding line off the reel as it falls,” Hawthorne explains. “You want zero resistance on that spoon as it goes down. Because that’s going to give it the best fluttering action.”

Because he’s often in search mode when he’s got a Tingler Spoon tied on, Hawthorne will rip it off the bottom pretty aggressively, hopping it up to two to three feet, and then letting it fall on slack line. “That will make sure it flutters around and flashes,” he says.

Tingler Spoons are available in three sizes: 1/16, 1/8 and 3/16 oz. For walleyes, Hawthorne favors the 1/8th-ounce size, but says he’s “not afraid to go up a size” if the fish are aggressive.

“If the fish are just crushing it, you always upsize,” he says. “If they’re keying in on that flash, you might as well get more flash down there. You’ll know after the first or second fish if they’re going to hit a bigger bait.”

Hawthorne dresses the treble hook on a Tingler Spoon with a minnow head or red larvae.

For more on the Tingler Spoon, visit: http://www.rapala.com/vmc/spoons/spoons/tingler-spoon/Tingler+Spoon.html?cgid=vmc-spoons-spoons#start=1&cgid=vmc-spoons-spoons.

Saltwater Fishing Secrets for Small Boat Fishing Fun

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Light Rod, Reel and Line 
  • Lightweight Homemade Jigs with Swim Tails
  • Bass Tracker Aluminum Boat Modified for Saltwater Fishing
This 16-foot Bass Tracker (Panfish Model) is the perfect backwater and inland seas fishing platform for speckled trout, redfish, snook, sheepshead and other species. Forrest Fisher Photo

By Forrest Fisher

There’s one!  Fish On!  We all love those unmistakable words of time-tested happiness when we fish. There is appreciation, excitement and the reality of fun too – all at the same time, not knowing for sure just exactly what fish is on the end of the line.   In saltwater, it could be any of 50 species.

Last month when I met savvy veteran angler, Jim Hudson, it was easy to spot his natural look of confidence when he talks about fishing saltwater.  Hudson was returning from a short day trip and dropped off a neighbor friend with a sack full of legal specks (four fish total, 15-20 inches with one over 20 inches, per man).

He had his personally customized 16-foot Bass Tracker (Panfish Model) with a 40HP Mercury 4-Stroke all wet from the events of the day, smelly with saltwater slime, the kind that comes off on the bottom of your boat when you’re too busy trying helping your partner with the net and you need to put the fish on the floor.  We call that “good” slime smell.  It washes off with a hose and Dove dishwashing soap.

The interior of the boat is completely revamped with live wells, storage compartments, non-skid flooring paint, the exterior is protected with anti-fouling paint in black color.  All the modification products came from Bass Pro Shops.  The boat offers an ominous presence to anyone that understands fishing.  One look says, “This guy knows what he’s doing.”  He talks to folks all along the way, on shorelines, on docks, on the beach – he makes a happy day for many folks.

Jim Hudson is all about catching fish and having fun on the water, sharing his home-made jig fishing secrets with many anglers along the way.  Forrest Fisher Photo

His MinnKota bow motor is set up for control by foot pedal from a high-rise bow seat where he stations himself with super-polarized fishing glasses in search of sea grass beds, oyster beds, sunken docks, underwater trees and structure, all the while slowly powering the boat along and casting to the next likely looking spot.

The big question most angler’s all have is, “What’s he using?”  Hudson uses a variety of lures, most of them are home made.  He enjoys learning from his personal experience and takes pride in sharing new discovery with others, especially folks that might be fishing for the first time.  He is a mentor type of man and a humble teacher that understand tidal currents, baitfish, shrimp schools and moon phase in the nearshore fishing areas of harbors near the Gulf of Mexico.  There is a lot in that last sentence.

Having fished the Charlotte Harbor waters from Placida to Gasparilla Island to Captiva Island and around Pine Island Sound, he has narrowed down structure-oriented locations that hold bait at various times of day when tidal currents are on the move.  He moves around through his day on the water, searching those currents, he enjoys every single moment out there.

I asked him if there was a bad time or good time to be out fishing with all the tide action that takes place in and out through two cycles a day, he smiled widely and answered, “When you have time is the best time!”  Hudson is a happy person.  He is also so very focused when he is fishing.  It’s like watching a bobcat search out his final approach for a rabbit dinner in a south Florida wildlife management area.  The bobcat wins every time.  Jim Hudson rarely fails to catch 20 fish or more each trip out.  He is a seeker of fish and wins at the catching game with lightweight tackle and boating gear.

He controls his boat with a unique left-hand motor position lever that rises 2-1/2 feet from the floor and a throttle control from a right-hand lever, one hand on each, as he sits in a deluxe, lounge seat style chair.  The chair supports his back and torso for those 20-mile runs that Jim makes when the wind is right for his 16-foot fishing machine.   He gets there quick at 45-50 mph.  He always wears his kill switch lanyard and affixes that to his belt in the event of an unpredicted consequence.  At that speed on open water there might be a dolphin or shark, giant grouper, gator, Manatee, you never know.  He is watchful and a true conservationist at all times, but he is also careful and is safety-minded.

His tackle is simple.  A high-quality, open-face, spinning reel with 8-pound test monofilament.  He likes the stretch that simple mono line offers as protection from breaking off big fish.  He rigs up with a 7-foot light action rod from St.Croix and carries five or six of these in strap-down position just like in the big $80K bass boats.  He uses all of the rods and they are all rigged separate before he hits the water.  His vital knowledge of fish-catching experience shows during his pre-fishing rigging session.

His favorite lures are his homemade jig heads in 1/16, 1/8 and 3/16 ounce sizes, in a variety of colors, but usually red, white or a specially mixed yellow/chartreuse color.  Each of these finished products has a bumpy, grit-like, finish that is mixed into the paint before he coats the hand-poured jig heads.  I asked about this.  Jim says, “The finish is important because it causes the water to deflect differently when you retrieve the line, causing the jig tails to flutter and weave, dart left or right, as the forage imitations dip and skip along and slightly above the bottom.”

The jigs are dressed with a 3-inch or 4-inch action-tail shad in a variety of colors, but the hottest one in February seems to have some olive color on the top, white on both sides with black dots, and sometimes a hint of magic-marker orange on the bottom.   The secret here is threading the tail on so that it is perfectly centered, allowing the jig head and your retrieve action to control the swimming and direction motions. Some of his baits are more often used for freshwater crappie and bass fishing. Forrest Fisher Photo

The size jig head (weight) is simply a function of water depth and current while fishing a constantly swimming bait, twitching it once or twice every 2-3-4-5 seconds.  A simple method that represents a host of forage swimming the winter waters of the inner harbor areas near Port Charlotte, Florida.  These include shrimp, pintail minnows and similar bait.

You know you’re fishing where the fish are when the Dolphins join you at your favorite spot (see photo). It’s also when you know it’s time to move to another spot! Forrest Fisher Photo

The St. Croix rod allows him to cast the lightweight bait quite far, zinging it from the reflex-action of the powerful tip.  The rod also helps to feel when the fish hits the bait and allow him to set the hook and tire the fish to bring it in.  The rod works with the reel drag to protect the stretchable line, though Hudson uses about three feet of 12-16 pound fluorocarbon leader to allow extra protection at the strike zone.

Hudson casts out, let the jig sink slightly and immediately starts the retrieve, slow, fast, quickly lifting the rod every so often in a pattern I have yet to determine.  He revises the sequence and frequency of the retrieve until he finds the action of the day that is on fire.  It is a pleasure to watch this master of the inland sea work his magic.  His results are all good memories.

His advice for the rest of us?  “Fish often, fish hard, develop a passion for fishing that will lead you to have a good understanding of where the fish move, why they move and when the best time to fish is.  The lures I use are simple, they work for me because I talk to them too! ” He was grinning that Georgia smile from ear to ear.

Hudson’s last word for all winter anglers heading to Florida: “Go fish where you have access by shore or boat, but there are a ton of winter fish, big and small, in the canals that lead to the harbor in some way.  Watch for current eddies, work them on incoming or outgoing tide movement, test them with warm fronts and cold fronts, test them under cloudy conditions and sunny conditions, and keep logbook that also records moon phase.”

Hudson adds, “You may not believe what you learn and you’ll also have some tasty fish for dinner or picture-taking fun if you catch and release.”

Born to Hunt Pheasants

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Well-Trained Bird Dogs
  • Timeless Moments with Old Friends  
  • Tasty, Beautiful, Ringed-neck Pheasants
  • One Surprising Modern-Day Youngster

For STO 02072017, picture 1of5By Joe Forma

The well-trained pointing Lab whirled into the red brush and a gorgeous Ringed-neck Pheasant clawed his way airborne.  The first of some 50 such flushes for my son, Andy Forma, of Penfield, New York, and his four companions on their 4th annual hunt with F&B Upland Birds in Hamlin, New York.

The companion hunters were Safari Club stalwarts Judge Bill Boller, George Cipressi and his grandson Dom, and also Dr. Pat Baranello, owner of the Calibre Shop ammo source, and Ron Bullard of Collins, New York.  Yours truly was the group photographer.

For STO 02072017, picture 2of5The hosts at F&B Upland are Fred Paye and Bill Surridge.  These great guys run a superb hunt in what they maintain as traditional Western New York bird cover.  As we step afield, we are transported back to the 1970’s when Ringed-necks were so prevalent locally.  The 200 plus acres of hunting land features standing corn, soybean fields, hedgerows and acres of natural red brush.

Fred and Bill provide wonderful, well-trained bird dogs, featuring Pointing Labs and Shorthair Pointers.  They are without a doubt the very best bird dogs I have ever hunted over.  They even respond to Fred’s command “get a drink” by immediately jumping into one of the large water tubs sprinkled around the area. Neat to see.

The morning hunt was for 25 randomly released roosters.  This is no walk ’em up and shoot in a 4-inch clover field.  Every bird was a challenge to locate and bag especially in the thick red brush and well grown hedgerows.  The dogs did a great job.  Many of the birds ran like the wily birds of old.  The group all had great shots and needed about 3-4 flushes and misses to settle down and then they rarely missed.

For STO 02072017, picture 3of5A real highlight of this hunt was George’s grandson, Dom, a 12 year-old super hunter.  Andy was really glad to have a youngster along to promote the future of his sport.  Dom couldn’t have been a better sportsman even at his young age.  He always held his cut-down Remington 20 gauge pump at a proper port arms position, as instructed.  He showed no impaired nerves or excitement, but hunted like he had done it a dozen times, not his first time.  He was an excellent shot.  He downed at least six hard-flying pheasants with single shots.  I didn’t see him miss.

After a great morning with about 22 birds brought to bag, we broke for a luxury lunch of roast venison, deep fried Canandaigua Lake yellow perch and Lake Erie walleye.  Fred and Bill fed us well in their spacious and heated tent.

For STO 02072017, picture 5of5The afternoon hunt was for an additional 25 Ringnecks.  The dogs continued their excellent work and showed no signs of fatigue.  They are well trained and well exercised, so they never quit, though some of us older sports slowed down just a bit.  The shooting was right on the mark though and the birds flushed hard with disconcerting cackling.

For STO 02072017, picture 4of5A tribute to all was that not a single bird was lost as a cripple.  Great shooting and great retrieving by the dogs.  By around 3:00 p.m., there five happy hunters and one old photographer, me, who decided one last push thru the soybean field would do it.  It produced our last kill, a long-tailed, beautifully feathered cock bird.

The boys finished with 45 to be delicious pheasants and the feeling of a day well spent.  Andy booked again for a hunt next November.

Florida Scrub-Jays in Festival Spotlight

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

The Florida Scrub-Jay is a beautiful coastal bird that lives nowhere else except in Florida, it is a light gray-brown bird with a bright blue head, blue wings and tail. FWC Photo

  • Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Stuart, FL
  • Feb. 18, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
  • Guided Walks, Exhibits, Swamp Band Hay Rides, Kids Activities, Entertainment and Food
The Florida Scrub-Jay is a beautiful coastal bird that lives nowhere else except in Florida, it is a light gray-brown bird with a bright blue head, blue wings and tail. FWC Photo
The Florida Scrub-Jay is a beautiful coastal bird that lives nowhere else except in Florida, it is a light gray-brown bird with a bright blue head, blue wings and tail. FWC Photo

Posted by Forrest Fisher

Come celebrate this songbird at the 8th annual Florida Scrub-Jay Festival on Saturday, Feb. 18, at Jonathan Dickinson State Park, about 12 miles south of Stuart on U.S. Highway 1.

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the festival will offer guided walks, exhibits, swamp buggy and hay rides, kids’ activities, entertainment and food.  There will be an opportunity to meet Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) staff and partners that are helping conserve this threatened species.  The FWC is one of the festival’s organizers.

The Florida scrub-jay is distinctive because of its unusually cooperative family lifestyle.

Craig Faulhaber, the FWC’s avian conservation coordinator said, “The Florida Scrub-Jay lives in family groups composed of a breeding pair that mates for life and its offspring. Young Scrub-Jays often stay with their parents for one or more years and act as helpers to defend the family’s territory and raise young.  Breeding pairs with helpers successfully raise more young than lone pairs.”

“Because Florida Scrub-Jays are very territorial and don’t migrate, people may get the chance to watch events in the life of a Scrub-Jay family throughout the year.  Family members work together to defend territories averaging 25 acres from other Scrub-Jay families, with at least one member always on the lookout for predators,” said Faulhaber.

The Florida Scrub-Jay is one of the many wildlife species you may spot at Jonathan Dickinson State Park.  It needs sandy scrub habitat to survive, but its populations have been impacted by habitat loss, agriculture and the lack of natural or prescribed fire to maintain vegetation height and sandy openings on scrub lands.  Scrub-Jay populations are thought to have declined by as much as 90 percent since the late 1800s.

What does the call of this bird sound like? More like a screech than a song, since it is related to species like the crow.  Hear the sound of a Florida scrub-jay by going to AllAboutBirds.org and searching for Florida Scrub-Jay.

People can help Florida Scrub-Jays by:

Find out more about Florida scrub-jays by going to MyFWC.com/Imperiled, clicking on “Listed Species,” “Birds” and then “Florida Scrub-Jay.”

RAGE Arrow Packages Now in KIT FORM

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Pre-Cut to 29.5 inches
  • SC-2 Blade, 100 Grains
  • Advanced Shock Collar, Non-Fouling Design

For STO 01272017, HUNTING and PRODUCTS, Picture 1of2Posted by Forrest Fisher

Folks don’t need to tell me personally about how effective the Rage broadheads are.  They have proven their value with me the last 7 years.  They are deadly effective.

For STO 01272017, HUNTING and PRODUCTS, Picture 2of2Rage, the number-one-selling mechanical broadhead on the market, now offers two complete arrow packages so archers can spend less time building arrows and more time shooting them.

The new Rage Simply Lethal Arrow package combines a popular Gold Tip pre-fletched carbon arrows with the archer’s choice of either the Rage SC 2-Blade 100-gr. or the Rage SC 2-Blade Chisel Tip 100-gr. broadheads and a set of field points for practice.  Extremely tough and very dependable, these arrows come out of the box pre-cut and fully equipped with nocks, inserts, and 2-inch GT vanes installed.

Designed for draw weights up to 70 lbs., the arrows in the Rage Simply Lethal package are pre-cut to 29.5 inches to fit most archer’s setups.  They have a straightness ±.006-inch and weight tolerance of ±2.0 grain.  The deadly cut-on-contact Rage SC 2-Blade is a proven 2-blade Slip Cam™ design with advanced Shock Collar technology that keeps the blades in place until the moment of contact.  This delivers full kinetic energy to provide extremely large wounds and better blood trails.  The Rage SC 2-Blade Chisel Tip incorporates a bone-crushing chisel-tip design and features the Shock Collar retention system for dependably devastating entry and exit wounds.

Both Rage Simply Lethal packages come with three fletched arrows, three broadheads and three field points. The Rage Simply Lethal arrow packages are now available at retailers nationwide with a suggested retail price of less than $60.  They are easily distinguished apart by the red packaging of the Rage SC 2-Blade and the yellow packaging of the standard 100-grain Rage SC 2-Blade.  Spend your time shooting instead of getting your equipment prepared to shoot.

Rage Broadheads is the world’s number-one manufacturer of expandable broadheads. Rage also manufactures quivers and accessories.  A FeraDyne Outdoors brand, Rage is headquartered at 101 Main Street, Superior, WI 54880; call 866-387-9307; or visit www.ragebroadheads.com.

Brothers That Hunt Together – A Video Story

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Lessons for Stalking Pronghorn
  • Learn About Tracking, Harvest
  • Enjoy Field Dressing Tactics, Savory Cooking Details

Pronghorn-3By Forrest Fisher

In this wonderful video from Ramp Media Outdoors, learn about the passion of how and why hunting brings two brothers together.  Despite their extremely busy lives, Matt McMorris and brother, Jeremy, share details about hunting and how it provides them with an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors together.

They both have families with young children and live several hundred miles distant from each other, but in this video, they find a way to get together during hunting seasons in the Texas panhandle to hunt for a pronghorn buck.

Watch as they track a herd of pronghorn, share hunting techniques, scouting tactics and more importantly, perhaps, why hunting is about so much more than about taking a trophy.

Matt says, “Hunting brings people together and has such deep meaning and purpose for true sportsmen.  As brothers, we use our harvest for food to feed our families.  We hunt because it is a part of who we are as humans designed to survive.  Hunting does a lot to bring people together, bonding people to nature and to a more ultimate meaning.”

Florida Saltwater Fishing for Fun

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

One of my lifetime fishing buddies, Jeff Liebler, has shared his Florida fishing bounty with many others, especially parents of younger children. Liebler says, “Life is about fun in the outdoors and finding some time to learn about that with your family.” Forrest Fisher photo

  • Keep It Simple
  • Live Bait Effective, Shrimp Works Everywhere
  •   Be Prepared for Big Fish and Small Fish
One of my lifetime fishing buddies, Jeff Liebler, has shared his Florida fishing bounty with many others, especially parents of younger children. Liebler says, “Life is about fun in the outdoors and finding some time to learn about that with your family.” Forrest Fisher photo
One of my lifetime fishing buddies, Jeff Liebler, has shared his Florida fishing bounty with many others, especially parents of younger children. Liebler says, “Life is about fun in the outdoors and finding some time to learn about that with your family.” Forrest Fisher photo

By Forrest Fisher

For wintertime saltwater fishing, the fun begins in Florida with cooling waters as multiple species head inshore to spawn and to search for easy forage feeding opportunities.  With hundreds and thousands of northerly bound anglers also heading to the lush green vegetation and sandy beach shores of southern Florida, many travelers do pack a fishing rod.  If you happen to be one of those lucky folks, just be sure the gear is strong enough to handle fish from one to 10 pounds or so, all common catches from shore or pier-fishing hotspots.

If you’re bait fishing, shrimp is always number one. Live shrimp are best, dead shrimp are next, then enter artificials.    Live shrimp are often fished under a bobber, casted from a boat or while wading along the shoreline, then drifted along in search for a redfish, spotted sea trout, snook, flounder and many other species.  There’s lots of ‘em!  And big or small, they all fight harder than you will expect.

The best bait for starting in the fin of fishing Florida in the wintertime is a live shrimp and a bobber. Cast out and hang on! Forrest Fisher photo
The best bait for starting in the fin of fishing Florida in the wintertime is a live shrimp and a bobber. Cast out and hang on! Forrest Fisher photo

If dead shrimp bait, that might be best for pier fishing for sheepshead and other species, simple use a small piece of the shrimp tail, shed the shell and thread it on.  These pieces can be fished off a bare hook and sinker rig or directly of a ¼-3/8 ounce jig with extra sharp hooks.   Hang on, you never know what might swim by and choose to chomp on your presentation.

If you are more a caster and not prone to pier-sitting and line watching, the Berkley Gulp shrimp in the 3-inch size is the hottest thing for saltwater fishing since bread and milk for breakfast.  Thread it onto a weighted hook or light jig head with a wide gap hook, you might have to look for that type of jig style – but they exist, and get into some easy fishing on the incoming tide.  You can wade out in shorts of waders, but be aware, these waters also are home to sharks, sting rays and a host of other non-people friendly critters that don’t necessarily mean to hurt you, they’re just part of the package.  Awareness is essential to stay in the fun zone.

Cast out your properly rigged artificial Gulp shrimp and let it sink to bottom in 3 to 6 feet of water, then start a short-hop, swimming retrieve, slow or fast, you’ll figure it out by how the fish react.  Start with slow.  Spend about 1 to 2 hours before taking this bait off for another if you find the fishing slow.  The fish are not always there and need to move through too, so this is a bit about timing when you are fishing.

Bottom line?  Hang in there with any form of shrimp bait and sooner or later, you will catch a few fish.  Visit a bait/tackle shop to insure you have the rules and understanding for legal fishing, and a license, if you need it.  Don’t forget the sunscreen.

Tight lines!

Finding a Florida Fishing Charter

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • You Have 4 hours, You Want to Fish
  • New “Find a Fishing Charter Service”
  • What to Do, Where to Search, I Discovered www.Itrekkers.com
Small boats, big boats and even kayaks, complete with tackle, are a part of the fishing fleet and staff that is available to you with one call to this new service (1-844-GOT-TREK). Forrest Fisher Photo
Small boats, big boats and even kayaks, complete with tackle, are a part of the fishing fleet and staff that is available to you with one call to this new service (1-844-GOT-TREK).  Forrest Fisher Photo

By Forrest Fisher

When you travel to Florida for vacation or business, you realize at some point – especially if you are a fisherman, that the deep blue sea is calling and that there may be some time for you to enjoy a charter fishing trip.  Your eternal obligations for responsibility melt away and the thought of a short fishing trip melts away all of your burdens.  Fishing…..Yes!

Even if you unprepared, the nice thing about Florida charter fishing is that the fishing license is considered part of the charter cost and this policy helps to promote the economic impact for the local economy, guides and visitors.  It makes it easy for you and I to take a fishing trip too.

You open the phone book or click on google for the city you’re in and there you are, yep, somewhat confused.  You find so many charter listings and no time to sort through them to find out about reviews and cost and time of arrival and location.  All those things and even more.

While on a Florida fishing charter, you will always find that nature is all around you wherever you fish. Forrest Fisher Photo
While on a Florida fishing charter, you will always find that nature is all around you wherever you fish.  Forrest Fisher Photo

If you are fishing in Florida, especially if you are within an hour or two of Tampa, you won’t need to worry about all those details.  There is a new fishing charter company that has already vetted the available charters and made a list of the good guys (and gals) who are honest charter fishermen willing to give you their time and best effort to catch fish in short order.  That new company is called “itrekkers” and you can quickly find them at www.itrekkers.com.  Think of them as sort of the Uber Taxi Service of the fishing world in Florida.

Itrekkers allows you to make a simple search for the convenience of booking a fishing charter with nearly no prep time.  You’re decision-making is reduced to deciding upon the length of your trip.  End of story, you can let the fun begin.

Itrekkers offers several types of trips depending on how much time you have, these include 4-Hour Inshore, 6-Hour Nearshore and 8-Hour Offshore trips.  These types of trips are designed for you and your family or small group of 4-6 people.  If you’re fishing alone, they also offer Share-A-Treks that are designed for 1-2 people who are looking for all the benefits of a charter, but not the full cost.  You can book a single seat and share with friends or let others join you for a fun adventure on the water.

The Share-A-Trek fishing trips permit you to enjoy the charter without being responsible for the full charter cost.  I like this option, especially for business travelers, since the cost can be as little as $150 per person to get out on a boat for half a day with all gas, bait, equipment, licenses, and more, included.

Depending on the trip selected, you’ll fish in different types of water from protected bays and inlets to deep sea offshore waters.  The 8-Hour Offshore deep-sea trips will take the angler 20 to 60 miles offshore to catch the fish you’re after.

This service has long been overdue and if you have ever rented a charter and have come back disappointed, this business takes care of that problem. Your trip is money-back guaranteed.  Not sure any adventure trip can ever be more assured before you leave.  Check these guys out, they’re worth a call if you happen to be in need of fishing fun and services and you’re in Florida.  I found them by accident.

Call 1-844-GOT-TREK or link to www.itrekkers.com.  Tight lines everyone!

Yellowstone Grizzly Bear Delisting Delayed

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

More than 100 Grizzly bears have been killed as a result of increased attacks on humans and livestock, allowing landowners and management groups to consider scientific management is now necessary. Photo courtesy of Sportsmen’s Alliance

  • Public Comments Cause Hold
  • 100+ Grizzlies Killed for Human or Livestock Attack 
  • Social Tolerance Levels Reached
  • Goal is to remove 700 Bears
More than 100 Grizzly bears have been killed as a result of increased attacks on humans and livestock, allowing landowners and management groups to consider scientific management is now necessary. Photo courtesy of Sportsmen’s Alliance
More than 100 Grizzly bears have been killed as a result of increased attacks on humans and livestock, allowing landowners and management groups to consider scientific management is now necessary. Photo courtesy of Sportsmen’s Alliance

Posted by Forrest Fisher

The removal of 700 grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem from the protections of the Endangered Species Act has stalled after the U.S. Fish and Wildlife received more than 650,000 comments.  Many comments from American Indian Tribes and animal-rights supporters expressed unwarranted fears that the recovered animals would again face extinction despite successful scientific management of every other game animal on the continent.

Last year, the Sportsmen’s Alliance twice submitted comments in support of delisting the distinct population of grizzly bears and returning them to state management in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming.  The action would open the possibility of closely monitored hunting for grizzlies, but within guidelines that assure no detrimental impact to the overall population in each state.

The delisting from federal protections and return of grizzlies to state management would apply to a distinct population of recovered grizzly bears found in an area around, but not in, Yellowstone National Park.  The population of grizzly bears has surpassed recovery goals in both population benchmarks and duration of time meeting those goals, proving that the population is not just recovered, but stable and growing.

Moreover, more than 100 grizzly bears have been killed for depredation of livestock or attacks on humans in the last two years – a significant number indicative of the population having reached social tolerance levels within the available habitat.

About the Sportsmen’s Alliance 

The Sportsmen’s Alliance protects and defends America’s wildlife conservation programs and the pursuits – hunting, fishing and trapping – that generate the money to pay for them.  Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation is responsible for public education, legal defense and research.  Its mission is accomplished through several distinct programs coordinated to provide the most complete defense capability possible.  To learn more about membership in this group, please visit: http://www.sportsmensalliance.org/membership/individual-membership/.

FIRST TIME ICE FISHING with Kids

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

There is nothing quite like taking a youngster out to ice fish when the fish cooperate. Be prepared for big smiles!

  • Keep It Simple
  • Don’t Stay Too Long
  • Bring Plenty to Eat and Drink

By Forrest Fisher

There is nothing quite like taking a youngster out to ice fish when the fish cooperate. Be prepared for big smiles!
There is nothing quite like taking a youngster out to ice fish when the fish cooperate. Be prepared for big smiles!

A few years back, when my 3-1/2 year-old grandson asked me to join him at his pre-school “show and tell”, I didn’t know how much fun that could be.  My little buddy talked about one of his favorite things – fishing.  He brought his 4-foot long Zebco “Tigger” fishing rod with pushbutton casting reel, his little blue/beige colored Plano tackle box, all his bobbers, sinkers and hooks, and one more thing that just touched my soul – a picture of him and me taken by his father when he caught his first sunfish on vacation last year.  A moment to live for!

The size of his ear to ear smile in the picture made everyone else in the classroom smile too.  “Wow, look at that BIG fish,” said another young guy in the class. “This is me and my Dziadzia (Polish word for grandad)”, he said, “And ‘dis is a fish I caught last year on vacation.”  Then, using a rubber casting plug, he went on to give a live demonstration of how he could cast.  He then looked over to me and said, “Me and my Dziadzia are Fish’N Buddies.”  A piece of my soul had just been gold-plated.  It’s been a few days since then, actually it’s been a few years, but I’m still beaming with pride from the memory of that moment.  The outdoors does bond people together for a lifetime.

Even back then, my grandson could probably best be described as a “talker”.  He asks lots of questions and usually offers lots of answers too.  He is a joy.  Anyway, as I drove him home after the show and tell, he asked me about where the fish go in the winter time.  Young minds at work.

I told him the whole story about how water gets cold when winter comes and it eventually freezes on the top.  The ice forms a hard thick layer and there is water below it where the fish live through winter.  I explained that most of the fish live on the bottom in the deepest part of the lake.

Collin asked, “Don’t they get cold?”  I explained that fish are not like people, fish are the same temperature of the water they swim in (they’re cold-blooded).  So when the water gets cold, the fish get cold too, but they don’t freeze, they just slow down.  They eat less, but they do eat in winter.

I should have known what was coming next, but I never even thought about it.  “Well, why don’t we go fish for them in the winter too?” He asked.  I told him that lots of people fish in the winter by drilling a hole through the ice and fishing a little jig and bobber for fish on the bottom.  “Can we go, can we go?” He asked.  How could I say no?

The next day after clearing it with his mom and dad, off we went to a small frozen pond that I knew had crappie, sunfish, yellow perch and black bass in it.  We walked over to an area of the pond that I thought was the deepest and I showed Collin how a clip-on weight could be used to show how deep the water was.  It was about 14 feet.  He wasn’t too thrilled about any of the technical stuff, he just asked, “Can we fish here?”  So we did.

We had about 7 or 8 inches of ice and I showed Collin how to use the ice scoop (hand skimmer) to clear the hole of ice chips and slush from digging the hole.  He took on to that job and OWNED IT.  He liked to “clear the ice” with the little shovel we brought too.

For STO 01312017, FISHING and LOVE OF SPORT, Picture 2of2We had a clear blue sunshine day, no clouds and no snow, air temperature about 25 degrees and a 5 mile per hour from the north.  Not a bad winter day in WNY.  With the sun, it felt more like 35 degrees.

Then we added a bobber stop and slip bobber to the very thin and supple 4-pound test Berkley “ice line”, a tiny ice-jig  and about 1/16 ounce of pinch-on BB-shot a foot above.   We again used the clip-on weight to set the bobber stop so the jig would be about one inch off the bottom.  I didn’t bother to explain this part of the set-up to the youngster.  He wanted to fish!  We added a mousee grub to the hook of the tiny ice-jig and let the line fall into the depths below.

As the line settled out, Collin watched the bobber with total focus.

Of course, most of the time, ice fishermen will concede that it takes two or three stops and digging new holes each time to find fish and get a strike. We lucked out.  The bobber started to quiver and wobble, then it disappeared, Collin yelled, “There it goes!”  I picked up the rod and handed it to him.  He had been practicing how the open-face reel works all day and knew very well how to turn the reel handle to wind in the line.

It was bit of a struggle as his face was straining a little.  He was excited and I bet a little scared at the same time.  I imagine not ever having done this before, he might have been wondering what he might have down there.  The lite-weight, micro-sized ice rod was bent double and a wiggling fish was definitely on the end.  I coached him to keep reeling and he was doing a great job, slowly turning the handle over.  Collin was on the edge of a new moment.

An instant later, a 12-inch perch plopped out of the hole right onto the ice surface.

WOW!! Look at that Dziadza!  “We better take it off the hook Dziadzia, we have to put it back into the water.”  I explained that we could keep this fish and have it for dinner later.  He stopped talking, waited, looked sat me, looked at the fish and then said, “Can we let this one go?”  I smiled at him and said, “Sure we can!”

We both worked to carefully remove the ice jig from the lip of the fish and then we slid the fish across the ice to the hole.  Collin used his boot to help the fish find the hole.  Once there, one flip and the perch swam out of sight, back into the deep.

“Good job,” I told him. “Was that fun?” I asked.  “Yup,” he smiled wide and wider as he answered.  “Can we try that again Dziadzia?”  I began thinking, oh Lordy, I HAVE been born a lucky man.

We caught about 6 more fish in the next hour.  A black bass, another yellow perch, and several bluegills.  It was a great day for first time ice fishing.

Without reaching the point of “Can we go home now,” I told Collin that we had to go back to see Grammy now.  He wanted to stay.  I was happy to discover that after an hour he wasn’t tired of all the excitement, but I wanted to make sure he didn’t get cold and that he still had the desire to return.

Even before we reached the truck, we were already talking about another day on the ice for the next weekend.  I realize now that as I get older, I have less time to get older.  This stuff is fun!!  I suddenly want to eat the right foods, get some exercise, live healthier and make sure that I can stay on this planet for a very good long time.

You see, I know that when his two sisters find out about this, I’m going to need a calendar book for noting the next ice fishing dates.  Ice fishing with children is more than fun.  It is an experience that can open the door to a lifetime of outdoor adventure and also allow for some gold-plated moments in time, if you’re lucky.

Did I mention that fishing with kids will make you younger too?  We are always reminded that life is about attitude, aren’t we?  This was an attitude-changing day for sure.  My life changed that day.

On the last fish we caught, Collin turned to me to ask one small favor.  “Dziadzia, can we keep this one?”  I said, “Well, we don’t have enough to make a meal because we let them all go, why do you want to keep this one?”  He said, “For show and tell next week.”  I grinned.  OK Collin, I have an aerator at home and it will keep the fish alive until then.”  Mr. Bluegill went home with us in a 5-gallon bucket and off we went, bright-eyed and cheery-tailed, looking ahead to the next time we could go ice fishing.

Give yourself the opportunity.

Hey folks, the ice has had a hard time getting here this year in many parts of the country, but it will get here.  Step out there and grab some winter ice-fishing fun.  Take a kid with you!   In many areas of the country, there is no closed season for many species of panfish and they’re easy to catch.

FISH ON! NEW TRAPPER TACKLE HOOKS

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Angler has New Advantage
  • New Shape is Innovative, Patented
  • New Shape Hook Design – Hard to Shake Free

For STO 02022017, FISHING and PRODUCTS, Picture 2of2By Forrest Fisher

Not until now, have I ever considered why fish are able to get off when I’m fishing with a giant hook and plastic worm.  They have the mechanical advantage to leverage the hook point out with a bit of a wriggle and a shake.  Some folks at Trapper Hooks have also made an adjustment to the physics principle involved by creating a new hook design.  Imagine that now, a hook for fishing and catching fish that is brand new.  I think this is an amazing invention.

My first cast with these new hooks proved my point.  I had threaded a 4-1/2 inch “Squirrel Tail” worm (Big Bite Baits) with a Tilapia-color tail onto a size 1/0 Offset Wide-Gap hook (style 20610) from Trapper Tackle and flipped to the edge of weedbed that had grown high near a drop-off.  With just one jiggle of my medium-action St. Croix rod tip, a fish inhaled the bait.  The 3-pounder came right to the top, tail-walked, jumped twice and soon after, I reached under his belly to safely boat the bass for a quick release.  He could fight again tomorrow.

For STO 02022017, FISHING and PRODUCTS, Picture 1of2The hookset felt so solid.  When I saw the hook-up point of interface, I understood why.  It was buried to the sharp-corner bend of the new shank design.  The new hook has good retention.  The sticky-sharp Piercing PointTM provides a nice path for the surgically sharp hook point to bury itself, removing the old advantage that physics and old-style hook shapes have provided to the fish.  Advantage to the angler.

In three trips so far with these new hooks, I have not lost any fish.  Reviewing the catalog, there are several design styles and several sizes, including a drop-shot hook that can be used with live bait.

This hook design changes the world of fishing and after just this simple trial on the water, it is easy to understand why.  Check ‘em out the next time you visit your tackle store or visit their web link to find out where to get ‘em: https://www.trappertackle.com/store-locations.

Fish On! New Trapper BoxTM Hooks

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Angler has New Advantage
  • New Shape is Innovative, Patented
  • New Shape Hook Design – Hard to Shake Free

For STO 02022017, FISHING and PRODUCTS, Picture 2of2By Forrest Fisher

Not until now, have I ever considered why fish are able to get off when I’m fishing with a giant hook and plastic worm.  They have the mechanical advantage to leverage the hook point out with a bit of a wriggle and a shake.  Some folks at Trapper Hooks have also made an adjustment to the physics principle involved by creating a new hook design.  Imagine that now, a hook for fishing and catching fish that is brand new.  I think this is an amazing invention.

My first cast with these new hooks proved my point.  I had threaded a 4-1/2 inch “Squirrel Tail” worm (Big Bite Baits) with a Tilapia-color tail onto a size 1/0 Offset Wide-Gap hook (style 20610) from Trapper Tackle and flipped to the edge of weedbed that had grown high near a drop-off.  With just one jiggle of my medium-action St. Croix rod tip, a fish inhaled the bait.  The 3-pounder came right to the top, tail-walked, jumped twice and soon after, I reached under his belly to safely boat the bass for a quick release.  He could fight again tomorrow.

For STO 02022017, FISHING and PRODUCTS, Picture 1of2The hookset felt so solid.  When I saw the hook-up point of interface, I understood why.  It was buried to the sharp-corner bend of the new shank design.  The new hook has good retention.  The sticky-sharp Piercing PointTM provides a nice path for the surgically sharp hook point to bury itself, removing the old advantage that physics and old-style hook shapes have provided to the fish.  Advantage to the angler.

In three trips so far with these new hooks, I have not lost any fish.  Reviewing the catalog, there are several design styles and several sizes, including a drop-shot hook that can be used with live bait.

This hook design changes the world of fishing and after just this simple trial on the water, it is easy to understand why.  Check ‘em out the next time you visit your tackle store or visit their web link to find out where to get ‘em: https://www.trappertackle.com/store-locations.

Bowhunting Woman of South Africa

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Jack Coad and Anne O’Leary teamed up with Numzaan Safari to harvest this beautiful Zebra about 200 kilometers northwest of Johannesburg, South Africa.

  • Adventure, Conservation-Oriented, Sacred Moments
  • Full Accommodations, Meals Included, Max Comfort
  • Professional Hunter Guide is Part of Package
  • Exciting, Relatively Low Cost
Anne O’Leary arrives in Thabazimbi Province in South Africa to unpack her Elite Archery bow to assure shot accuracy.
Anne O’Leary arrives in Thabazimbi Province in South Africa to unpack her Elite Archery bow to assure shot accuracy.

By Forrest Fisher

When Jack Coad and Anne O’Leary made a plan to hunt Africa, they planned the hunt of their lifetime.  They discovered that South Africa offered more than 30 species of animals and that some study of which animals to hunt would be needed.   Among the most common animals to hunt are Plains Game animals such as Impala, Wildebeest, Kudu, Gemsbok, Zebra, Eland and many others.

Hunting in South Africa is exciting, an adventure, it is about understanding nature and conservation.  There are wonders in the natural world of Africa that are breathtaking and extraordinary, these elements help hunters to develop a new perception of all things wild when you hunt in Africa. This is especially true for archery hunters.

It is often about observing wild animals that have the power to feast on you and your guide, face to face, while with archery gear in hand.  Animals such as the Cape Buffalo.

The safety of the hunter and the effectiveness of the hunt can depend on the structure and location of the blind such as this one, where Anne harvested her 900 pound Zebra.
The safety of the hunter and the effectiveness of the hunt can depend on the structure and location of the blind such as this one, where Anne harvested her 900 pound Zebra.

Choosing the right place to hunt and the right guide may appear to be complicated, but after conversation with other hunters that have travelled there, decision making is lessened to a manageable numbers of safari facilities.

Jack and Anne chose to hunt with Numzaan Safaris in Thabazimbi, a village in the Limpopo Province South Africa, located about a 3-1/2 hour drive northwest from Johannesburg.  There are multiple airlines that service this area and your travel from the airport is part of the Safari fee.  Upon arrival they met their “PH” or professional hunter (guide), Brent Van As, who advised their every move for safety and effective hunting of several species.

Hunting with a trained guide and effective gear in South Africa hunting may present an opportunity for the reverence of a perfect shot.

The hunter may accept the challenge to make that shot.  It is a sacred moment.  It is awe-inspiring.  It requires mental focus and an understanding with perceptive sense of the role that the hunter takes when hunting in Africa.  It is a role quite different from the role of hunter nearly anywhere else.  It is a role where indigenous natives applaud your success because you will share with them in your bounty, but also a role unpopular to some in the western world.  The locals keenly understand that you part of natural resource management.  They welcome you.

A prerequisite is that hunter skill in the gear of choice is necessary.  Bow, arrows, broadheads, release, sights, counterbalance, and the aim of the hunter in brief duress for the moment of brief encounter.  Your skill must be dominant.

Jack Coad and Anne O’Leary teamed up with Numzaan Safari to harvest this beautiful Zebra about 200 kilometers northwest of Johannesburg, South Africa.
Jack Coad and Anne O’Leary teamed up with Numzaan Safari to harvest this beautiful Zebra about 200 kilometers northwest of Johannesburg, South Africa.

Your understanding can be reduced to a simple few things:  arrow flight and distance to target.  You must recognize and understand the limits and boundaries of your shooting skills, like hunters everywhere, but many fail to recognize this transitional crossroad for taking a shot.

Bow hunts in Africa with many outfitters are usually a minimum of 10 days in stay and run during the African winter that occurs from July through September.

In Africa, accepting that you have the right gear, have developed adequate skill and you are healthy enough to embrace the excitement of the hunt and potential sharing of the harvest, know that you will have a trained and skilled guide.  A guide that has meandered the African wilderness and networks of animal trails that identify preferred hunting areas.

One look at the night sky to see tens of thousands of stars in the unspoiled air of Africa is enough, all by itself, to wish for a quick return to Africa.

The night sky tells a tale of purified and simple living.  Hunters in Africa form an important arm of required balance to keep poachers in check.  Hunter funding pays for poacher policing, without hunters that pay for this privilege to share in the harvest, the capacity for nature to support wild animal populations would have already been compromised.

Winter temperatures in Africa vary between the low 40’s to about a high of 70 in mid-afternoon, but it is sunny most of the time, so use of sunscreen is common.

Africa needs hunters.  African villagers and wild game species needs hunters.

As you explore this need, you realize there is a renewed sense of community.  You better understand the vulnerable community of African wild animals and the necessary role of hunters.  Hunters in Africa are a precious commodity subject to maltreatment from others without understanding of the rescue mission that they perform.

When you accept the challenge to hunt in Africa, and then after you have gone on the hunt and you return, it is only then that you realize how important it has been for you to form this new kinship with nature and our Creator.  A kinship that is vulnerable to confrontation.

Therefore it is important to realize that hunting in Africa requires moral courage and a new understanding that, in fact, as a hunter in Africa, you are a gift.  You are bound to respect, bound to scientific management of the species you harvest and share, bound to support the costly licensing procedure, bound to the reciprocity of the timeless bond with nature and the wilds that is shared by all hunters who respect their hunting moments as sacred.

To learn more about hunting and what it costs, what you should pack and how far in advance to plan, visit this website: http://www.numzaan.com/.  One thing that is surprising is that you will learn it is far less costly to hunt Africa than it is the Rocky Mountains in western United States or up north in Alaska.  I was surprised at this, but it accentuates the need for hunters to visit Africa.

If you have additional questions, you might email their guide, Brent Van As, directly, at brent@numzaan.com.  

For it is you and I that must understand there is reciprocal balance and you and I are part of that delicate scale.

Trophy Catch Florida – Pays Cash

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Catch, Measure, Release Alive Contest
  • Photo Required, Simple Rules 
  • Bass Pro Card to Each Monthly Winner 

For STO 02022017, Picture 1of1Posted by Forrest Fisher

“TrophyCatch” is introducing BONUS monthly prizes!

The rules and prizes will vary each month and will be announced here on Facebook and on Instagram (@FishReelFlorida).

February’s prize is $50 in Bass Pro Shops gift cards for the participant with the MOST approved LUNKER CLUB catches between February 1 – 28, 2017.

So, get out there and send us those great Lunker Club brag shots!

By participating in any Facebook promotions, the participant agrees that their participation constitutes a complete release of Facebook and that this promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook.

For complete rules, see: (https://www.trophycatchflorida.com/rules.aspx).
#TrophyCatch #FishingCapitalOfTheWorld

Snook Season Reopens in Florida Atlantic Waters

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Starting Feb. 1. 2017, in the Atlantic, Florida anglers may keep one snook per day that is not less than 28 or more than 32 inches total length. Photo Courtesy of Hobie Kayak Fishing

  • Recreational Snook Season will Re-Open Feb. 1
  • Keeper Slot Limit: 28 – 32 Inches
  •   Anglers Asked to Save Filleted Carcasses for FWC
Starting Feb. 1. 2017, in the Atlantic, Florida anglers may keep one snook per day that is not less than 28 or more than 32 inches total length. Photo Courtesy of Hobie Kayak Fishing
Starting Feb. 1. 2017, in the Atlantic, Florida anglers may keep one snook per day that is not less than 28 or more than 32 inches total length. Photo Courtesy of Hobie Kayak Fishing

Posted by Forrest Fisher

The recreational harvest season for snook reopens on Feb. 1 in Florida’s Atlantic coastal and inland waters (from the Miami-Dade/Monroe county line north), including Lake Okeechobee and the Kissimmee River. The season will remain open through May 31.

In the Atlantic, anglers may keep one snook per day that is not less than 28 or more than 32 inches total length, which is measured from the most forward point of the head with the mouth closed to the farthest tip of the tail with the tail compressed or squeezed while the fish is lying on its side. A snook permit is required to keep snook, along with a saltwater fishing license, unless the angler is exempt from the license requirements. Only hook-and-line gear is allowed when targeting or harvesting snook.

It is illegal to buy or sell snook.

Snook are one of the many reasons Florida is the Fishing Capital of the World. As a result, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) encourages anglers to use moderation when determining whether or not to take a snook home, even during the open season.

Researchers ask anglers who harvest the fish to save their filleted carcasses and provide them to the FWC by dropping them off at a participating bait and tackle store. This program allows anglers to participate in the collection of data, such as the size, age, maturity and sex, of Florida’s premier inshore game fish – snook. For a county-by-county list, go to MyFWC.com/Research and click on “Saltwater,” “Snook” under the heading “Saltwater Fish,” and “Snook Anglers Asked to Help with Research.”

The harvest of snook in all of Florida’s Gulf of Mexico state waters, including Everglades National Park and all of Monroe County, remains closed until March 1. Snook harvested from the open waters of the Atlantic may not be transported through closed waters or landed in the closed area. Anglers may catch and release snook during the closed season, but the FWC encourages anglers to handle and release these fish carefully to help ensure their survival upon release. Proper handling methods can help ensure the species’ abundance for anglers today and generations to come. To learn more about fish handling, visit MyFWC.com/Fishing and click on “Saltwater Fishing,” “Recreational Regulations” and “Fish Handling.”

For more information, visit MyFWC.com/Fishing and click on “Saltwater Fishing,” “Recreational Regulations” and “Snook.”

Flies in my Champagne!

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  •  Special People Deserve Special Moments
  • New, Unbreakable Outdoor Drinkware
  • Secret Dry Fly Hiding Places!

For STO 02012017, PRODUCTS, picture 1of1By Forrest Fisher

The day of fishing is done, your body tells you it’s time to rest and relax. The sun is setting and there is a perfect orange glow reflecting within those tiny bubbles hatching on the surface of your crystal clear champagne glass.  A special moment!  There you are in the middle of a mountain camping trip.  Champagne glasses in the wilds.  Possible? Yes.  Likely? Not until now.

My wife and I discovered these new unbreakable champagne flutes that stow away as a 2-piece threaded combination. They go anywhere and survive.  They fit in my shirt pocket and I found myself packing my dry flies in them on a recent trip – they were totally protected and perfectly unruffled.  I carry two of them at all times now.  Multiple uses!

The base detaches and then snaps into the rim for travel, reverse for use.  Imagine, unbreakable champagne flutes on the top of a mountain, at your Florida poolside vacation site (where glass is typically not allowed), on the river, at the campsite, on the beach or anywhere you might want to create a special moment.  We have been amazed at the durability of this drinkware and the compact packing size.

If you are an outdoors-minded person, you know that mastering the necessary aspects of having fun in the natural world include survival and once in a while you want to accommodate for a special moment after the day is done.  Special moments for celebration and recollection, such is part of the outdoors lifestyle for special folks.  Check these out for yourself, they are low cost, last a lifetime and are perfect for when you want them. Visit https://www.gsioutdoors.com/.

No worries about broken drinkware.

Here’s a toast from Mother Nature to you! Cheers!

Effective, Low-Cost Ammo

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Quality and Price Sets Tula Ammo Apart 
  • Perfect for Training at the Range
  • See Attached Video Link 

By Forrest Fisher

For STO 01232017, SHOOTING, Picture 1of1The Tula Cartridge Works, was founded way back in 1880 by Emperor Alexander II, that makes it one of the oldest and perhaps, most significant, producers of small-arms ammunition in the world today.

Leveraging the production experience of nearly 140 years and applying ever-evolving technologies with research knowledge, Tula Ammo continues to push the envelope on behalf of the American shooter.

The history of the Tula Cartridge Works includes a defining role during World War II, when the facility turned out millions of rounds of small arms ammunition to be used against Nazi Germany.  Since that time, Tula has continued to introduce new products, increase production capacities and open new markets for military and civilian shooters alike.

TulAmmo USA represents the Tula Cartridge Works here in the United States.  We recognize that the American shooting and hunting enthusiast demands a cleaner and more accurate option in economy cartridges against other foreign-produced brands.  We are proud to offer that option in a variety of popular handgun and rifle calibers, as well as a selection of primers for the hand reloader.

For a better, first-hand look from the 2017 SHOT SHOW, visit with Dominic Grasso at the SHOT SHOW:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JAqxoKi09Ts&feature=youtu.be

Humminbird® Introduces New SOLIX™ Series

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

The SOLIX unit offers new features, including a keypad with a separate joy stick and encoder for precise adjustments and easy access to key features. Photo courtesy of Humminbird.

  • Exclusive Fish-Finder Technology Combinations
  • Largest Viewing Screens in Industry
  • Mapping, Imaging, Clarity

 

The SOLIX unit offers new features, including a keypad with a separate joy stick and encoder for precise adjustments and easy access to key features. Photo courtesy of Humminbird.
The SOLIX unit offers new features, including a keypad with a separate joy stick and encoder for precise adjustments and easy access to key features. Photo courtesy of Humminbird.

Posted by Forrest Fisher

The biggest news in fish-finding sonar for 2017 is, quite literally, “big viewing.”  For decades, Humminbird has led the fishing world by putting new tools and innovations in the hands of anglers to help them find, and catch, fish.  Now, Humminbird has combined its best features and placed them into one fish-finder, the SOLIX™.  The unit offers the biggest display in the brand’s history – up to 15 inches, and the SOLIX combines multiple technologies designed to make locating fish easier.

A truly revolutionary product, SOLIX delivers game-changing sonar, imaging and mapping capabilities in the largest fish finder anglers have ever seen. In true Humminbird fashion, these technologies are packaged in an easy-to-use interface and system that can make any angler better.

Unprecedented Screen Innovation

SOLIX is setting the bar for the angling sonar category in display size with two variations with 12-inch and 15-inch visual monitor options.  Either size unit comes standard with Humminbird’s Cross Touch® Interface, letting anglers operate the unit via touchscreen or keypad, all while customizing the screen with up to four independent viewing panes.

Cross Touch allows anglers to use the SOLIX either as a touchscreen or with the keypad for easier control in rough water conditions.  Individual panes can be zoomed or moved to different screen locations based on angler preference or fishing situation.

According to professional bass angler Gerald Swindle, SOLIX gives him a serious advantage over his competition and the fish he’s after.  “The size is amazing and allows me to see crucial screen information from anywhere in the boat. Plus, I can set up my panes to simultaneously show me MEGA-Side Imaging, MEGA-Down Imaging and how I’m oriented to key structure.  I get all of that in a glance, so I know that every cast is a productive one,” said Swindle.

Never-before-seen image clarity

SOLIX units come in two versions. One is equipped with GPS and CHIRP Digital Sonar, the other adds Humminbird’s game-changing MEGA Imaging.  This is the first Down and Side Imaging technology to enter the megahertz range with performance that’s nearly three times greater than traditional 455 kHz frequencies.  It results in the clearest, sharpest imaging returns ever.

Anglers can choose MEGA-Side Imaging for an incredible view to the left and right of their boat, while MEGA-Down Imaging gives crystal clear pictures of what is beneath the boat. Both carry a range that covers the most popular fishing depths.

Mega-Down Imaging® allows anglers a fish-eye view of below the boat. Photo Courtesy of Humminbird
Mega-Down Imaging® allows anglers a fish-eye view of below the boat. Photo Courtesy of Humminbird

When asked to explain MEGA Imaging, Humminbird’s brand manager Ray Schaffart said, “The screen detail is so defined that in some cases you can literally see each individual fish and make out their head or tail in the sonar shadow.  Natural bottom structures like rocks and stumps almost look like photographs, while man-made structures like shipwrecks, road grades or sunken bridges, offer up imagery down to the individual beam.  After people see it, they just can’t believe it.”

All SOLIX models include CHIRP Digital Sonar, firing more pulses than traditional transducers over a given period of time.  More pulses mean more information, improved image separation and superior image clarity at greater depths.

Includes Next Generation in Mapping

AutoChart Live draws a map of lake depth contours - complete with actual depth labels as you drive your boat. Photo Courtesy of Humminbird
AutoChart Live draws a map of lake depth contours – complete with actual depth labels as you drive your boat. Photo Courtesy of Humminbird

Also standard on all SOLIX models is Humminbird’s expanded AUTOCHART® Live Technology that creates and saves structure maps on any body of water.  AUTOCHART Live identifies and maps depth, bottom hardness and vegetation. Anglers know that fish relate to depth, weed lines and transition points in bottom type – for example where a soft, muddy bottom transitions to firm sand or rock.  By collecting all that data on an AUTOCHART Live map, Humminbird helps anglers keep their boat in the strike zone on productive structure.

Fishing takes another huge step forward when AUTOCHART Live is used in conjunction with i-Pilot® Link™ from Minn Kota®.  With both technologies cooperating, an angler can tell his Minn Kota trolling motor to “follow” a specific AUTCHART Live contour at a set speed, and with the press of a button the boat will precisely follow the exact path.  Now, anglers no longer need to guess where fish-holding structure is located.  They can precisely follow the weedline, bottom hardness or depth contour, and stay within easy casting distance of their target.

Unsurpassed connectivity

Bluetooth is built into every unit, allowing anglers to sync smartphones to the on-board SOLIX.  Text messages, missed calls, signal strength and other notifications appear right on the Humminbird display, so phones can stay safely in pockets where they belong for hands-free fishing.  It creates a flawless on-board network of electronics and connectivity.

For plug-and-fish networking, high-speed Ethernet provides easy connectivity to Humminbird 360 Imaging, Minn Kota i-Pilot Link, Humminbird CHIRP Radar, and additional SOLIX or select HELIX units.  The new units are fully compatible with Humminbird LakeMaster® charts, SmartStrike™ and Navionics® Gold/HotMaps™.

Versatile mounting options

SOLIX owners can mount their large Cross Touch screens inside the boat dash, on the included gimbal or directly to an optional RAM Mount for multi-directional viewing.

Mark Gibson, Humminbird director of R&D, summarized the new Humminbird SOLIX technology by saying “SOLIX is the combination of decades of dedicated development in everything from the transducer to the touchscreen. It’s the best of the best and the most advanced fish locator ever created.”

For more information call Humminbird at 1-800-633-1468 or visit Humminbird.com.

Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission – 75 Years of Success

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Butler Island camping, fishing and kayaking fun. Photo courtesy of Florida Fish & Wildlife (FWC)

  • Wildlife Conservation Areas Established 
  • Fish, Wildlife and Public Access Expanded and Managed
  •   Recreational Opportunities for All, Hunters and Anglers too
Butler Island camping, fishing and kayaking fun. Photo courtesy of Florida Fish & Wildlife (FWC)
Butler Island camping, fishing and kayaking fun. Photo courtesy of Florida Fish & Wildlife (FWC)

By Forrest Fisher

If you have ever travelled to Florida, it seems everywhere you go there are birds, fish, flowers and wildlife of all sorts.  It’s no accident.  In 2017, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is commemorating the 75th anniversary of the wildlife management area system, one of the state’s greatest natural treasures.

The FWC oversees the statewide network of remote and scenic lands, managing them for conservation and recreation.  To celebrate the milestone and help people discover the opportunities these public lands offer, the FWC is hosting free events throughout the year.

FWC Chairman Brian Yablonski said, “Florida has one of the largest systems of public lands in the country at nearly 6 million acres, and these lands are the best of the best of what wild Florida has to offer.  These natural communities span a variety of habitats from longleaf pine uplands and pine flatwoods, to the hardwood hammocks and sawgrass savannas of the Everglades.  Not only are these areas beautiful, they are managed to provide habitat for many species of wildlife and access for people to enjoy hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing and more.”

Florida’s first WMA, Fred C. Babcock/Cecil M. Webb Wildlife Management Area, was established in late 1941 in Charlotte and Lee counties.  By the 1960s, there were 28 WMAs.  Today, the FWC is the lead manager or landowner of over 1.4 million acres and works in partnership with other governmental or private landowners on another 4.5 million acres.  These healthy habitats are essential to Florida wildlife – both common and imperiled species.  The FWC uses its scientific expertise and a comprehensive ecological approach to manage a variety of wildlife while balancing public access to these wild lands.

Whitetail Deer abound in several areas of Florida with managed hunting seasons established for WMA areas. Photo Courtesy of Florida Fish & Wildlife (FWC)
Whitetail Deer abound in several areas of Florida with managed hunting seasons established for WMA areas. Photo Courtesy of Florida Fish & Wildlife (FWC)

WMAs provide many recreational opportunities including paddling, fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, photography, wildlife viewing, and target shooting at areas with a public shooting range.  They also offer a wide range of hunting opportunities including special hunts for families and people with disabilities.

Throughout 2017, the FWC will host a variety of events to celebrate Florida’s WMAs.  Events include a statewide geocaching challenge, volunteer work days, a photo contest, guided hikes, fun opportunities to explore WMAs, and citizen science bio-blitzes, where members of the public help document wildlife species at WMAs.

If you are heading to Florida at any time this year, learn more about upcoming events (or to find a WMA near your destination), visit MyFWC.com/WMA75.  You’ll find access link to parks, beaches, fishing hotspots, advice for safety, fun and places to visit.

FWC says you can help them share the fun of what’s in Florida by sharing your visits to Florida WMAs on social media (#WMAzing).

Fishing from shore at Escribano Point WMA can offer fun and a palatable dinner feast for anglers. Photo courtesy of Florida Fish & Wildlife (FWC)
Fishing from shore at Escribano Point WMA can offer fun and a palatable dinner feast for anglers. Photo courtesy of Florida Fish & Wildlife (FWC)

Braving It: Journey into the Alaskan Wild

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Jim Campbell and 15-year old daughter, Aidan, rafting in Alaska on the Hulahula River, August 2014.

  • A Father and Daughter True Story of Adventure
  • Bone-Chilling Cold, Grizzly Bears, Polar Bears, Inner Strength
  • Guidebook for Conquering Fear as a Parent
  • Alaska Arctic National Wildlife Refuge
Jim Campbell and 15-year old daughter, Aidan, rafting in Alaska on the Hulahula River, August 2014.
Jim Campbell and 15-year old daughter, Aidan, rafting in Alaska on the Hulahula River, August 2014.

By Forrest Fisher

Adventure above the view of our modern Western culture is not traditional.  When James Campbell and his teenage daughter, Aiden, set off to visit Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, they discover untouched wilderness, bone-chilling cold, grizzly bears, polar bears, wolves, ubiquitous clouds of mosquitoes, compelling them to define new elements for survival and forming a sacred connection with each other and native peoples there.

In the beauty of the natural world found in the Refuge, they form new levels of heartfelt trust and inner strength.

This true story provides extraordinary insight into the wild outdoors to be found hiking, crossing the Hulahula River, paddling the Arctic Ocean and finally, helping local natives build a cabin for winter survival.  They discover new wisdom and ingenuity in a land dominated by blue skies, howling and growling night animals, flowing rivers of ice-cold water, and harsh climate.  The also discover precious clean air, fertile forests, and a special kind of instinct for survival that all the plants and trees and animals have developed.

Jim Campbell and daughter, Aidan, on the Hulahula River, in front of the cook fire, 3 days south of the Arctic Ocean, August 2014.
Jim Campbell and daughter, Aidan, on the Hulahula River, in front of the cook fire, 3 days south of the Arctic Ocean, August 2014.

The book describes the manner of how they each embrace the wild land and each other to complete their journey, as they are tested with the rigors of unfettered Alaskan nature.  They hunt game animals for meat, largely caribou and moose, despite the chill factors that often exceed 50 degrees below zero.  They learn the tools of the survival trade from native Eskimo peoples that become close friends.

This book is a tribute to a land that offers breeding habitat to caribou, geese, ducks, loons, and many other migratory species from five continents.  The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge lies about 125 miles east of the National Petroleum Reserve, an area rich in coal and oil that is largely controlled by the oil and gas industry.  We are still an oil-dependent nation and, for me, this book provides new insight for a better understanding of what we might lose if we do not insure to protect this fundamental and relatively unexplored Alaskan American resource.

Aidan and Jim proudly standing in front of the cabin they helped build.
Aidan and Jim proudly standing in front of the cabin they helped build.

If you can imagine to hear the ancient call of the yellow-billed loons that occupy this land, you may begin to understand the epoch of diversity of life and seasonal survival requirements that are forsto-01052017-travel-and-conservation-picture-4of4met by the birds, the animals and the peoples that interact in this sacred and undisturbed land.

The book will provide a trail for you to see how a father shares this colossal wilderness with his daughter while she is growing toward the Western community of modern adulthood.  To buy the book, click here: http://jamesmcampbell.com/books.

Understanding that, this is a timeless story for all of us who love the wilds of the outdoors.  It is about parenting.  It is about nature.  It is about preserving life, enhancing life, and celebration of life, and something that may be lost for all time without close oversight from educated peoples in the Western world.

Enjoy this story of life and survival.  I sure did.  Check out this video to listen first hand, from Jim Campbell himself:

Seaguar Expands Technique Specific Lines

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • New Finesse Fluorocarbon is Soft, Strong
  • New Line Also Offers Smaller Diameter with No Memory

For STO 01182017, Picture 1of1By Forrest Fisher

One thing is for sure, technology and the fishing industry work hand in hand to help us anglers be more efficient when we can find the time to get out and fish.  Over the years, new fishing lines that offer upgraded performance have helped transform that sensitive feedback loop from lure to angler – it transfers that fish bite contact to allow for better fish-catching opportunity.

“When conditions change and fish get finicky, we downsize everything – our baits, our rods and our line – to coax more bites,” says Seaguar Pro-Staffer and Elite Series Angler Shaw Grigsby Jr. Grigsby adds, “While we are slowing presentations and downsizing gear, we’re still targeting big fish – that’s where the new Seaguar Finesse Fluorocarbon line can make a big difference.  It’s exceptionally soft yet incredibly strong.”

The old adage, “You can’t fight Mother Nature” is so true.  Inevitably she’s going to throw a cold front or high-pressure system your way that’s going to change the bite.  So before despair sets in and fishing plans are scrapped, you adjust. That’s when you put down that flipping stick and grab your finesse rig to coax more bites. Finesse presentations change the game.

Seaguar Finesse Fluorocarbon is made using an exclusive double-structure process that combines two custom Seaguar fluorocarbon resins to create a line with smaller diameters and exceptional knot and tensile strength.  It’s soft and supple with low memory, making it a great choice for finesse applications.  It’s available on 150 yd. spools and formulated in four sizes for finesse presentations including 5.2 lb., 6.2 lb. 7.3 lb and 8.4 lb and ships to retail stores in the fall of 2016.

Finesse Fluorocarbon also features Level Wind Technology™, a Seaguar® exclusive. This process spools the line by laying it down side by side, never crossing itself.  The final spool is as smooth as a spool of thread, with no cross contact marks, for maximum line strength without any line overstress or twist.  Elite Series Pro Mark Menendez spooled up Finesse for testing and let the rod sit for several weeks. “When I picked up my rod outfitted with the Finesse Fluoro I was amazed.  Zero memory and the best manageability of any line I have ever used. It flows off the spool just like braid!”

Finesse fishing is one of the most popular ways angler’s fish for bass. Seaguar research shows that over 96% of anglers use this technique when bass fishing, and over 8 out of 10 have purchased rods and reels specifically for finesse presentations. The launch of the line will be supported with educational videos and TV, print and electronic media to build awareness and trial for the new Finesse lines.

The Finesse lines follow the successful introduction of Seaguar Flippin’ Braid and Flippin’ Fluoro, the first technique-specific lines introduced by Seaguar last year.  For more information, call 212-867-7040, write Kureha America LLC, 420 Lexington Avenue Suite 2510, New York, NY 10170.

It’s Crappie Time on Minnesota Ice!

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Stacy Ferrell Hedberg has become a master at catching big crappie for the last several years. Her secret is simple: stay comfortable, fish with your friends and family, keep it simple. Jeff Hedberg Photo

  • Go Small for Big Fish, Start with 1/100 oz Ratso Jigs
  • Dress Warm, Get Into a Hut to Beat the Weather
  • Talk to Others, Get Scoop Before Fishing When You Can
Stacy Ferrell Hedberg has become a master at catching big crappie for the last several years. Her secret is simple: stay comfortable, fish with your friends and family, keep it simple. Jeff Hedberg Photo
Stacy Ferrell Hedberg has become a master at catching big crappie for the last several years. Her secret is simple: stay comfortable, fish with your friends and family, keep it simple. Jeff Hedberg Photo

By Forrest Fisher

The super soft and ultra-slim finesse plastic body of a tiny Rasto jig, threaded on a precision lightweight jig head is an ice angler’s secret trick extraordinaire.  The tail appears to be alive with jiggles to resemble a tiny minnow, and it can be a killer with or without tipped live bait.  It all depends on the day, the mood of the fish, the barometer and many of us know how that goes.

With or without an underwater camera, the Ratso with a white tail is bright and easy to see with the fish house windows shaded out.  The head is there, then it’s not!

No head? Set the hook, fish on!

That’s how it was for Stacy Ferrell Hedberg with her Size 10 Ratso and her master-angler husband, Jeff, who were ice fishing on a Minnesota-NW lake (near Minneapolis) with many friends and fishing neighbors.  The last cold snap helped bolster the ice thickness and it became strong enough to pull the family fishing hut out to do some warm and comfort work.

The family caught several nice crappie to 16 inches, but friends have taken fish (crappie) in multiple Minnesota-NW lakes and ponds to 18 inches.  The Hedberg’s often fish as a family unit every year.  Stacy adds, “We’ve been hooked on fishing for big winter crappie for quite a while and we’ve been lucky too, pulling quite a few 16 inchers and a handful of 17 inchers each year.”

Stacy continued, “So every year, we are chomping at the bit for the ice to freeze so we can get out there.  We had been out a few times in our portable and caught a handful of nice crappies, sunfish and pike, but not the elusive giants we are after.”

for-sto-01102017-fishing-ice-time-crappie-picture-2of2
Ratso Jigs are tiny and supple, even in cold water.

Jeff added, “The ice was finally thick enough at 13 inches to put out our more comfortable ice-house Friday, as we are in for the winter now.  The temperature was -10 F with a wind chill around -20 F.”

Stacy added, “About 5 minutes into wetting my line, I hooked a nice thick 14″ slab jigging a white Ratso tipped with a small crappie minnow.  It was not a torrid pace that night and we did not catch any real giants.  We tried, stayed out until midnight, but the hunt for the elusive giant crappie continues!”

Florida Identifies Imperiled Species

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Pine Barrens Tree Frog

  • Management Plan Rule Changes Are In Effect
  • Florida Wildlife Conservation Charting Essential Course
  •   57 Species Identified with New Status
Pine Barrens Tree Frog
Pine Barrens Tree Frog

Posted by Forrest Fisher, Managing Editor

The Imperiled Species Management Plan rule changes are now in effect, including changes in listing status for many species. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved the groundbreaking plan in an effort to achieve conservation success with dozens of imperiled species throughout the state. The plan outlines the steps to conserve 57 species along with the broader vision of restoring habitats essential to the long-term survival of multiple fish and wildlife species.

“Florida is charting an ambitious new path for wildlife conservation success on a statewide scale,” said FWC Chairman Brian Yablonski. “Seeing a roseate spoonbill wading in shallow waters, a black skimmer resting on the beach or a Big Cypress fox squirrel sitting in a pine tree is an essential part of the Florida experience. This innovative plan is designed to keep imperiled species like these around for many generations to come.”

White Ibis in the Florida Ocean Surf
White Ibis in the Florida Ocean Surf

Nine rules were revised in support of the ISMP, focusing on changes to listing status, adding authorizations in a management plan or Commission-approved guidelines, preventing possession of species coming off the list, and accomplishing overall rule cleanup and clarification. Among the nine rules, one rule affecting inactive nests of non-listed birds is still pending.

Under the rule change that updates species’ listing status:

  • Fifteen species will no longer be listed as imperiled species because conservation successes improved their status: eastern chipmunk, Florida mouse, brown pelican, limpkin, snowy egret, white ibis, peninsula ribbon snake (lower Keys population), red rat snake (lower Keys population), striped mud turtle (lower Keys population), Suwannee cooter, gopher frog, Pine Barrens tree frog, Lake Eustis pupfish, mangrove rivulus and Florida tree snail. These species still are included in the plan for guidance in monitoring and conserving them.
  • Twenty-three species are newly listed as state Threatened species, a change from their former status as Species of Special Concern: Sherman’s short-tailed shrew, Sanibel rice rat, little blue heron, tricolored heron, reddish egret, roseate spoonbill, American oystercatcher, black skimmer, Florida burrowing owl, Marian’s marsh wren, Worthington’s marsh wren, For STO 01202017, CONSERVATION, picture 3of3, Florida Pine SnakeScott’s seaside sparrow, Wakulla seaside sparrow, Barbour’s map turtle, Florida Keys mole skink, Florida pine snake, Georgia blind salamander, Florida bog frog, bluenose shiner, saltmarsh top minnow, southern tessellated darter, Santa Fe crayfish and Black Creek crayfish. Threatened species have populations that are declining, have a very limited range or are very small.
  • Fourteen species keep their state Threatened status: Everglades mink, Big Cypress fox squirrel, Florida sandhill crane, snowy plover, least tern, white-crowned pigeon, southeastern American kestrel, Florida brown snake (lower Keys population), Key ringneck snake, short-tailed snake, rim rock crowned snake, Key silverside, blackmouth shiner and crystal darter.
  • Five species remain Species of Special Concern: Homosassa shrew, Sherman’s fox squirrel, osprey (Monroe County population), alligator snapping turtle and harlequin darter.  These species have significant data gaps, and the FWC plans to make a determination on their appropriate listing status in the near future.

Important things to know about the Imperiled Species Management Plan:

  • It includes one-page summaries for each species, including a map of its range in Florida and online links to Species Action Plans. The 49 Species Action Plans contain specific conservation goals, objectives and actions for all 57 species.
  • It also has Integrated Conservation Strategies that benefit multiple species and their habitats, and focus implementation of the plan on areas and issues that yield the greatest conservation benefit for the greatest number of species.

Learn more about the plan at MyFWC.com/Imperiled.

Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission – 75 Years of Success

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Butler Island camping, fishing and kayaking fun. Photo courtesy of Florida Fish & Wildlife (FWC)

  • Wildlife Conservation Areas Established 
  • Fish, Wildlife and Public Access Expanded and Managed
  •   Recreational Opportunities for All, Hunters and Anglers too
Butler Island camping, fishing and kayaking fun. Photo courtesy of Florida Fish & Wildlife (FWC)
Butler Island camping, fishing and kayaking fun. Photo courtesy of Florida Fish & Wildlife (FWC)

By Forrest Fisher

If you have ever travelled to Florida, it seems everywhere you go there are birds, fish, flowers and wildlife of all sorts.  It’s no accident.  In 2017, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is commemorating the 75th anniversary of the wildlife management area system, one of the state’s greatest natural treasures.

The FWC oversees the statewide network of remote and scenic lands, managing them for conservation and recreation.  To celebrate the milestone and help people discover the opportunities these public lands offer, the FWC is hosting free events throughout the year.

FWC Chairman Brian Yablonski said, “Florida has one of the largest systems of public lands in the country at nearly 6 million acres, and these lands are the best of the best of what wild Florida has to offer.  These natural communities span a variety of habitats from longleaf pine uplands and pine flatwoods, to the hardwood hammocks and sawgrass savannas of the Everglades.  Not only are these areas beautiful, they are managed to provide habitat for many species of wildlife and access for people to enjoy hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing and more.”

Florida’s first WMA, Fred C. Babcock/Cecil M. Webb Wildlife Management Area, was established in late 1941 in Charlotte and Lee counties.  By the 1960s, there were 28 WMAs.  Today, the FWC is the lead manager or landowner of over 1.4 million acres and works in partnership with other governmental or private landowners on another 4.5 million acres.  These healthy habitats are essential to Florida wildlife – both common and imperiled species.  The FWC uses its scientific expertise and a comprehensive ecological approach to manage a variety of wildlife while balancing public access to these wild lands.

Whitetail Deer abound in several areas of Florida with managed hunting seasons established for WMA areas. Photo Courtesy of Florida Fish & Wildlife (FWC)
Whitetail Deer abound in several areas of Florida with managed hunting seasons established for WMA areas. Photo Courtesy of Florida Fish & Wildlife (FWC)

WMAs provide many recreational opportunities including paddling, fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, photography, wildlife viewing, and target shooting at areas with a public shooting range.  They also offer a wide range of hunting opportunities including special hunts for families and people with disabilities.

Throughout 2017, the FWC will host a variety of events to celebrate Florida’s WMAs.  Events include a statewide geocaching challenge, volunteer work days, a photo contest, guided hikes, fun opportunities to explore WMAs, and citizen science bio-blitzes, where members of the public help document wildlife species at WMAs.

If you are heading to Florida at any time this year, learn more about upcoming events (or to find a WMA near your destination), visit MyFWC.com/WMA75.  You’ll find access link to parks, beaches, fishing hotspots, advice for safety, fun and places to visit.

FWC says you can help them share the fun of what’s in Florida by sharing your visits to Florida WMAs on social media (#WMAzing).

Fishing from shore at Escribano Point WMA can offer fun and a palatable dinner feast for anglers. Photo courtesy of Florida Fish & Wildlife (FWC)
Fishing from shore at Escribano Point WMA can offer fun and a palatable dinner feast for anglers. Photo courtesy of Florida Fish & Wildlife (FWC)

Ice Fishing Lures, Rattle & Hum

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Proof of Noise Attraction for Trophy Fish
  • Advice from a Biologist

For STO 01172017, Picture 1of2By Gord Pyzer

Sometimes, all it takes is a little desperation to discover an effective new fishing tactic.  An outing last winter with my Saskatchewan buddies Jeff and Jason Matity offers a case in point.  Expert ice anglers, the brothers paid me a visit in northwestern Ontario with their sights set squarely on catching trophy-sized crappies—a sportfish not found in their windswept home province.

Just a few days before the visit, I’d located a large school of 13- to 15-inch plate-shaped beauties, but left them undisturbed in the hope they’d still be there when Jeff and Jason arrived.  Fortunately, they were.  When we hopped off our snow machines, drilled through three feet of ice and snow and dropped our transducers down the holes, the sonar screens lit up like Christmas trees.  I remember excitedly saying, “This shouldn’t take long.”

Boy, was I wrong—the fish just wouldn’t bite, steadfastly snubbing our baits.  Now, what would you have done to fool those finicky fish?  I’m betting that, like us, you would have used ever smaller lures, presenting them ever more slowly.  But the crappies remained obstinate, frustrating us for more than an hour as we watched fish rise up, put their noses on our offerings as if to sniff them, then sink back down to the bottom.  That’s when the guys started experimenting with sound to trigger a bite.

Sound advice

For STO 01172017, Picture 2of2Jason dug deep into his tackle bag and pulled out a Fergie spoon that we intended to use the next day for walleye (above).  He removed the wire holding the brass and glass clacker, and tied the noisemaker to the end of his line.  Then he attached the same minuscule jig he’d been using without success to the rig’s split ring.  After dropping it down the hole, Jason shook the contraption briskly enough that he could feel the brass weight sliding up and down the wire, banging against the glass beads.  In short order, he was icing crappie after crappie after crappie (see the opening picture).

That’s right. The same fish that wouldn’t open their mouths for the smallest, most realistic bite-sized jig suddenly went berserk for the same bait dancing below six inches of thick visible wire, with a half-ounce chunk of brass banging against two red glass beads. Don’t ever let anyone tell you that sound can’t be an attractant. Need more proof?

After we had cleaned up on the crappies, we set out one snowy morning to locate big burbot.  Jeff and Jason may be the best ling anglers in the country, so I took them to a spot where I’d accidentally caught some of these fish in the past.  To catch winter burbot, the Matity brothers’ favorite technique is to use heavy 3/4- and one-ounce Reel Bait Flasher Jigs with the willow leaf blade dangling below the head.  They tip the jigs with thick butterfly fillets fashioned from fresh ciscoes, then hammer the lure so hard onto the bedrock bottom that you can hear it from 20 feet above on top of the ice.

Truth be told, we didn’t catch any burbot—too many big walleye annihilated the baits before they could trigger the beady-eyed burbot.

Click below to continue, go to GOOD VIBRATIONS

http://www.outdoorcanada.ca/Ice-fishing-Friday-How-to-lure-in-more-fish-with-sound

Mister Twister® BUZZ Bug

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Unique Retrieve Vibration Provides Effective “Victim Action”
  • New Lure Draws Attention from Bass Pro’s

 Posted by Forrest Fisher, Managing Editor

For STO 01202017, FISHING, Picture 1of1There is a new Swim Craw BUZZing with action.

Add the Mister Twister® BUZZ Bug to your bass fishing arsenal.  The new Mister Twister® 4″ BUZZ Bug is a versatile swim craw that provides maximum action and vibration making it an excellent choice for tempting wary bass.

The BUZZ Bug’s tough, thick body makes it ideal for punching and flipping with extra-wide gap hooks.  The lure features extra-long craws that extend beyond skirted lure length to provide a consistent swimming action on a steady retrieve or when fished fast.

It can also be Carolina-rigged and works well Texas-rigged on a weightless Mister Twister® Keeper™ Hook for a free-falling action that imitates a wounded crawfish.

“The BUZZ Bug has quickly become one of my go-to baits,” says Bassmaster Elite Series Pro, Clent Davis.  “Whether it’s swimming it through grass or pulling it behind a jig in 20 feet of water, I know it’s going to get the job done!”

The new 4″ BUZZ Bug from Mister Twister® is available in 19 fish-catching colors, including four laminate colors, selected by Pro Team members.

See more about the new Mister Twister® BUZZ Bug at mistertwister.com/buzz-bug.

Springfield Armory® Introduces Next Generation of Competitive Shooters

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Jalise (13) and Justine (12) Williams make grand entrance to Team Springfield™ and Action Pistol Shooting

  • Young Girls May Dominate in Competition
  • Learning About Quickness and Fun
Jalise (13) and Justine (12) Williams make grand entrance to Team Springfield™ and Action Pistol Shooting
Jalise (13) and Justine (12) Williams make grand entrance to Team Springfield™ and Action Pistol Shooting

Posted by Forrest Fisher, managing editor

What has bright-green, red or blue fingernails and can, on occasion, outdraw Team Springfield™ Captain Rob Leatham? That would be one of the Williams sisters – either Jalise (pronounced jay-lease) or Justine, depending on who’s faster that particular day.

After taking the NRA 2016 Annual Meeting by storm, the newest members of Team Springfield™ sat down for a video interview so the shooting community could learn a bit more about these preteen wonders.

Just 16 months apart in age, Jalise (13) and Justine (12) Williams have been shooting since age three or four, depending on which sister one asks. Under Coach Glenn Wong, they’ve been hitting the competitive circuit, primarily in United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA), since December 2013. Who’s the better competitive shooter? When asked, both immediately replied, “I am! No! I am!”

That about sums up the friendly, family rivalry. 

Demonstrating that respect and discipline go hand in hand with safe and responsible shooting, both girls have already earned black belts in karate, play piano and achieve (mostly) straight A’s in school.

When asked about joining Team Springfield™, Jalise replied, “Our first guns were Springfield Armory® XD(M)®s. I didn’t even think or dream that we would be on Team Springfield™ one day. I am just stoked! I can’t wait to put the shirts on for the next match!”

While Jalise prefers a little more quiet and spends her time reading, writing and shooting paper targets, sister Justine is all about commotion, taking part in motocross sports and dance. She also prefers the ring of steel targets to the calm precision of paper target shooting.

While both girls compete in Three Gun, USPSA and Steel Challenge, they have slightly different preferences for favorite division within the sport. Jalise prefers to shoot single-stack with her Springfield Armory® 1911 Range Officer® 9mm, while Justine chooses Production using her Springfield Armory® XD(M)® 5.25” Competition Model.

Regardless of division, the sisters share the same philosophy when asked about speed versus slow and easy shooting: “Fast!”

While Coach Wong assumes the lead for training and practices, the duo has a comfortable working relationship with Team Springfield™ Captain Rob Leatham, who observed, “The Williams sisters are the next generation of Springfield Armory® shooters. Actually, now that I think about it, I wonder if they’re my replacements. Maybe I should have considered that earlier.”

After meeting anyone and everyone in the shooting industry at the recent 2016 NRA Annual Meeting, the sisters were off to film an episode of GunVenture with Tom Gresham, scheduled to appear on Sportsman Channel in the third quarter of 2016.

Already, the girls have racked up an impressive list of corporate sponsors. In addition to Springfield Armory®, the sisters represent Berry’s Manufacturing, Robinson Armament®, ISCOPE, Tac-Tech-Cal Holsters, TPC, Weapon Shield, Dillon Precision, PK Realty and Mountain River LLC.

What’s in their futures? Both strive to become the youngest female Grand Masters first, then gain acceptance to the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit after completing school.

Rob Leatham sums up the corporate relationship noting, “It’s been an enlightening experience to be around them. I wish I could get everyone I trained with to have the same drive, passion and joy that these girls have. They’re the future of our sport.”

About Springfield Armory®
“The First Name in American Firearms,” Springfield Armory® was founded in 1777, when George Washington ordered the creation of an armory to store ammunition and gun carriages during the American Revolution. In 1794, the armory began to manufacture muskets and spent the next 150 years supplying firearms for every major American conflict. The original armory closed in 1968. In 1974, the Reese family took ownership of the Springfield Armory® name and began making the M1A™ rifle. Today, Springfield Armory® develops many products loyal to the company’s heritage, like the 1911 pistol, while ensuring its future with innovative products, including the XD®, XD® Mod.2™ XD(M)® and XD-S® polymer pistols.

Visit www.springfield-armory.com for the very latest from the company.

Jalise (13) and Justine (12) Williams make grand entrance to Team Springfield™ and Action Pistol Shooting
Jalise (13) and Justine (12) Williams make grand entrance to Team Springfield™ and Action Pistol Shooting

Parents Talking With Their Kids about Gun Safety

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • What to Say
  • What to Do
Julie Golob offers an excellent video on how to talk with your children, young and old, about safety and firearms. Photo and Video Courtesy of National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF)
Julie Golob offers an excellent video on how to talk with your children, young and old, about safety and firearms. Photo and Video Courtesy of National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF)

By Forrest Fisher

Kids are curious.  They are smart too.  They see guns on TV, in stores, at a friend’s house, and maybe at many other places.  How can they know about gun safety if parents never have a conversation about their fundamental well-being if they should see or find a gun?   Even if you as parent do not own a gun, you need to have this conversation with your kids.

They really need to know what to do, but understand that they need a conversation, not a lecture.  The question is, how can parents do this the right way?  There is one way to start, click on this link to join Julie Golob, a U.S. Army Veteran and Shooting Sports Champion, a hunter and a mom: https://youtu.be/M86QxNZF3AE.

Gun safety starts with an understanding of safety.  Repeat the conversation every month or two.

As a parent with young children, you can start with this:

  1. When you see a gun, STOP, don’t touch it.
  2. Leave it alone.
  3. Call an adult.

As a parent with older children, pick a time and place when you can focus on details and have an open conversation about staying safe with firearms.

  1. Don’t touch, pick up, or use a gun without permission from an adult.
  2. Never ever point a gun at anyone.
  3. Always assume a gun is loaded and can fire.

Get on the same page with your adult partner.  Eliminate their confusion.  Set an example with safe gun handling and storage of your own guns.

Reinforce firearm safety with your growing children often.  It’s really up to parents to do all they can to maintain firearm safety and to help educate their children about guns and staying.

Go to PROJECTCHILDSAFE.ORG and learn more about what a parent can do.  Please visit: http://www.projectchildsafe.org/.

for-sto-01032017-shooting-picture-2of2

 

Wireless Earbuds for Active Outdoorsmen

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  •  Sound Connection for Tournament Anglers, Hunters, Outdoorsmen

for-sto-12202016-products-picture-1of1By Forrest Fisher

You’re in your ground blind, you’re up 25 feet in your climbing tree stand, you’re kayaking in south Florida – you’re an active outdoors person.

Wherever you are, you know you might be watching the football game with your buddies, but you realize that your new earbuds will bring the game in just fine and you can still be out where you would rather be.

Certain things are of high importance when open and closed seasons are part of the weekend choice.

What’s more essential is that those earbuds are wireless and have a direct link via Bluetooth® to your smartphone and the sound source of your choosing.  You can put your phone ringer on mute and your phone calls on hold!

These high-performance wireless earbuds from Re-fuel by DigiPower are designed to keep up with you, no matter where you are or what you are doing.  Hunt, fish, hike, camp, take a run, hit the gym, kayak – but stay connected to the audio source of your choice.

Wireless connectivity eliminates those catchy long wires that can trip up with your bowstring or tangle up during other outdoor activity.  The unit is designed with military-grade sweat-resistant materials, securing shark fin ear tips and a long-lasting rechargeable battery – you never need to stop before the end of your activity to recharge, the unit has 120 hours of standby time.  Priced under $50.

Check ‘em out:  https://re-fuel.com/high-performance-sports-wireless-earbuds.html

Crossbow Hunting – Sweeping the Nation

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Shooting the new Ravin crossbow, this big buck passed by Joe Byers who used a Rage Hypodermic Crossbow Head to take the deer - the buck scored 163.25, the biggest of Joe’s life. Photo from Joe Byers post in Timeline Photos.

  • What You Need to Know – Which Bow for You?
  • Bolt Selection Factors, Hunting Tactics
  •   Shooting for Fun
Shooting the new Ravin crossbow, this big buck passed by Joe Byers who used a Rage Hypodermic Crossbow Head to take the deer - the buck scored 163.25, the biggest of Joe’s life. Photo from Joe Byers post in Timeline Photos.
Shooting the new Ravin crossbow, this big buck passed by Joe Byers who used a Rage Hypodermic Crossbow Head to take the deer – the buck scored 163.25, the biggest of Joe’s life. Photo from Joe Byers post in Timeline Photos.

By Forrest Fisher

If you like to hit the bullseye on your target, you like to shoot arrows, except you’re getting older and you’re having problems drawing your compound bow, you might be like quite a few baby boomers who are missing the hunting season because they’re developing physical issues. Maybe the trend sweeping the country is for you too.  Indeed, maybe you should get a crossbow, except you don’t know where to start and what to do.

With this new book from Joe Byers, The ULITIMATE GUIDE to CROSSBOW HUNTING, all the questions you might have are satisfied with juicy details for understanding.  This includes how to select a crossbow, the bolts (the term used for the short arrows used with a crossbow), target tips and hunting tips, optical scopes for zeroing-in on your target and much more, including hunting advice for different types of big game and small game on several continents.

Byers shares which bolts he has tested and how they performed.  You’ll be surprised at the details of proper bolt selection to achieve optimum performance.  You’ll learn about crossbow triggers, string stabilizers, trigger options and more.

Details on cocking ropes, rail lubricants, foot stirrups and bolt quivers are explained so that you learn about varying distinction factors that will work best for you and still meet your budget.

for-sto-12162016-hunting-and-people-places-picture-2of2I enjoyed reading how Byers felt about the many myths and misconceptions that have resulted with the increased use crossbows for hunting.   Byers addresses crossbows and game animal populations, hunting season length and the use of crossbows during archery season.  Much more on other myths with explanations will help everyone know more about the issues.  Byers provided answers that made me consider and to understand things about crossbows that I did not realize – like the good news and bad news about using a crossbow for hunting or for simple recreational fun.

Byers shares the experience of his success and failure, the results provide an exciting book that will help generate a complete understanding about the thrill of accurate shooting when combined with the adventure of hunting or shooting for fun.

His new book can help you or a loved one get in on the excitement of using a crossbow and will help answer the questions you have not yet learned to ask about the crossbow.

Lastly, it will make a great gift for the upcoming holidays.

Available on line at www.theultimateguidetoCBH.com.

Dogs, Rabbits and Smith & Wesson

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Labs, Beagles & Bassets 
  •   Secret, Succulent Rabbit Recipe 

for-sto-12212016-hunting-picture-1of2By Jim Low

My friend Dave Urich has hunted rabbits behind beagles since childhood.  He has always loved the music of baying hounds, but he doesn’t enjoy racing to rescue freshly shot bunnies from a pack of crazed canines.  He has never succeeded in teaching his beagles not to tear up rabbits, so he found another solution.

Enter Smith & Wesson*, a pair of Labrador retrievers.  Smith is a black lab, while Wesson is more or less the same shade of yellow as the well-known brand of cooking oil.  Dave keeps Smith & Wesson at heel while his pack of six to eight beagles rousts rabbits.  When he bags a bunny with his .410 over-under, the labs go into action.  They usually beat the beagles to the game and gleefully deliver it to Dave’s waiting hand.

This system works fine, but Dave isn’t one to settle for “good” when a little tinkering might get him to “better” or all the way to “perfect.” In that spirit, Dave added a basset hound named Porterhouse to the mix.  Beagles are an excitable and hasty lot, prone to missing small olfactory clues and being fooled by of cottontail chicanery.  They would mill around in circles for hours if not forcibly redirected.

Dave Urich shows what a pack of beagles can do to a rabbit if you don’t get to it first.
Dave Urich shows what a pack of beagles can do to a rabbit if you don’t get to it first.

Bassets, on the other hand, have keener noses than their longer-legged cousins and are nothing if not deliberate.  Porterhouse normally trails minutes behind the beagle pack, patiently following meandering traces of rabbit spoor as if every molecule were the finest French cologne.  Rabbits that cross a creek or double back and then hide in out-of-the-way nooks watch the howling beagle pack pass by and think they have it made.  Next thing you know, Porterhouse has his nose beneath their backsides and the chase is on again.

This is much more orderly in theory than it is in practice.  Individual beagles go off on tangents that take them to the next county.  Others decide it would be fun to chase deer.  Labs get bored and wander off to roll in raccoon poop when Dave isn’t looking.  “Chaos” is too mild a word for a hunt with Dave’s dogs, but entertainment is never in short supply.  To keep things manageable, Dave fits every member of his pack – except those carrying guns – with shock collars, which he controls individually to correct the behavior of whichever dog might go rogue at a given moment.  How he keeps track of the dogs, let alone the collars, is beyond me, but we haven’t lost a dog yet.

That is more than I can say for rabbits.  We do well enough shooting them, but with so many eager dogs in play, we seldom get through a day without losing at least one rabbit to canine exuberance.  It’s a small price to pay for so much fun.  Eating them can be extremely pleasant, too.  Rabbit meat is a lot like chicken minus the generous helping of fat that goes with chicken skin.  Frying in back grease and then slow-braising in a covered skillet supplies the moisture that rabbit flesh lacks, and that is a perfectly acceptable way to cook it.  My favorite, however, involves heavy cream, white wine and bowtie pasta.  Here’s how I do it.

Meat and Cooking

Remove the meat of two or three quartered rabbits from the bone.  Sear them in olive oil with chopped garlic in a cast-iron Dutch oven.  Cut into half-inch chunks and set aside in a covered container.

Sauce

Sautee 4 green onions in butter in the Dutch oven until they start to soften.  Add 12 ounces of dry white wine and 12 ounces of chicken stock and stir to dissolve browning residue from bottom of oven.  Add four bay leaves, two teaspoons of peppercorns, 12 chopped sprigs of fresh thyme and simmer until reduced by two-thirds.

Add 8 ounces of half-and half to the sauce and simmer until reduced by half.  Remove from heat and strain the sauce into another container.  Discard the seasonings and return strained sauce to the Dutch oven.

Dice a stick of butter and whisk it into sauce.  Add salt and fresh lemon juice to taste.  Stir in the diced meat and keep it warm while preparing the pasta.

Pasta

Slice two bell peppers – one red and one green – into thin strips.  Cut 16 ounces of fresh mushrooms into quarters.  Sautee pepper strips and mushrooms in butter until they begin to soften, but are still firm.  Set aside.

Cook a large package of bowtie pasta or wide egg noodles, drain and pour into a large serving bowl.  Arrange the peppers and mushrooms on top.  Pour on the sauce and serve.

* I asked Dave how his basset hound acquired such an unusual, but undeniably descriptive name.  “None of my dogs answer to their names,” he said, “So I give them names that I like.  For a while I was in the habit of naming them after cuts of meat.” He says that led to “Pork Chop,” “Ribeye,” “Tenderloin” and “T-bone.” If I ever acquire a beagle of my own, I’m calling him “Ground Chuck.” “Chateaubriand” might be a good choice for a classy bird dog.

Modern Ice Lines Help Everyone Catch Fish

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Even young kids can really enjoy walking on water to catch fish when the fish are biting in winter - fresh line every season can help insure the fun! Forrest Fisher Photo

  • Sufix Elite and Ice Magic
  • Limber, Ice Free, Small Diameter
  • Multi-color Choices
Even young kids can really enjoy walking on water to catch fish when the fish are biting in winter - fresh line every season can help insure the fun! Forrest Fisher Photo
Even young kids can really enjoy walking on water to catch fish when the fish are biting in winter – fresh line every season can help insure the fun! Forrest Fisher Photo

By Forrest Fisher

For many of us, we’ve been waiting for a very long time to get on the hard water.  With a chilly polar blast in the forecast for next week, that time is near.  Get the gear ready.

Start with the right line.  Lots of folks use regular mono and admit to having some issues to conquer each year, but technology today has developed a better way for ice fishing line.  Enter Suffix Ice Magic and Suffix Elite.

New Line Prevents Ice-Up

The Ice Magic is a high performance ice fishing monofilament line designed to stay limber and manageable even in ice water and above that, there are ingredients in the line that help prevent ice-up!  Is that cool or what? It comes in clear or neon orange colors.

for-sto-12062016-fishing-picture-2of2No Line Coiling  

The diameter of our mini-reels for ice fishing is small and so the extra-limber line is needed to prevent coiling and to maintain functional use.  The new line eliminates the coil memory we hearty ice anglers once fought with to jig ultralight lures.

Change your line every fishing season to keep it fresh and ready to work perfectly with the lightest of lures and baits.  It gets nicked on your bait buckets, the sled and hundred other places while you fish with it or store it through the warmer days.  Change it once a year and be sure to check it when you fish every so often too.

Ice Force pro, Tom Neustrom says, “You don’t have to start from scratch and re-spool mid-season, but you do want to remove sections of line that get a lot of wear and tear,” Neustrom explains.  Simply peel off 25 to 30 yards every three or four outings, and then re-tie your baits.”

What Line to Use and When 

Neustrom adds, “For winter walleye, your best bet is 6- to 8-pound Sufix Elite monofilament line. For pike through the ice, use 8- to 10-pound Sufix Elite mono. Featuring unbeatable strength, easy handling, and superior tensile and knot strength, Sufix Elite line comes in 10 test-strengths and four colors (camo, clear, hi-vis yellow and low-vis green). Spooling up for panfish? Use 2- to 4-pound test Sufix Ice Magic line. Because panfish baits are so much smaller than walleye and pike baits, lighter line is need to make them react correctly to subtle jigging strokes.  Sufix Ice Magic sinks fast for a more natural presentation and it comes in six test-strengths (1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 8). “

To check on pricing for this new line or review additional information, check this link: http://www.rapala.com/sufix/monofilament/ice-magic/ice-magic/Ice+Magic.html?brandname=sufix.

Hobie Fishing World Championship

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

Steve Lessard of Team USA is lifted in celebration of his win in the 6th Annual Hobie Fishing World Championship held in Lafourche Parish, Louisiana, where competitors from 17 countries vied for the top honor.

  • Mike Iaconelli says, “Kayak fishing takes more Strategy”
  • 17 Countries in Competition
  • Steve Lessard of USA is Winner
  • Fishing Site: Lafourche Parish, Louisiana
Steve Lessard of Team USA is lifted in celebration of his win in the 6th Annual Hobie Fishing World Championship held in Lafourche Parish, Louisiana, where competitors from 17 countries vied for the top honor.
Steve Lessard of Team USA is lifted in celebration of his win in the 6th Annual Hobie Fishing World Championship held in Lafourche Parish, Louisiana, where competitors from 17 countries vied for the top honor.

By Forrest Fisher

Recreational kayak use and fishing from kayaks has skyrocketed and grown to new heights in the past few years.  Anglers from all over the world now compete in numerous fishing championships, but the biggest of these is the Hobie Fishing World Championship, held this past weekend in Lafourche Parish, Louisiana.

To fish in the sixth annual Hobie Fishing World Championship (HFW6) presented by Rhino-Rack™ and hosted by Hobie Cat® Company, anglers either qualified through regional tournaments or were invited to attend the premier kayak fishing event of the world.  A total of 49 competitors from 17 different countries fished for the chance to be crowned this year’s Hobie Fishing World Champion.  There were 11 North American World Championship Team members from USA and Canada.

The competition was tough enough with the best kayak anglers in the world here facing each other, but the biggest opponent may have been the nasty weather.  Murky water and heavy wind provided an increasing degree of difficulty for anglers paddling their customized Hobie Kayaks in the competition.

The distinguished first-place trophy for the 2016 Hobie Fishing World Competition.
The distinguished first-place trophy for the 2016 Hobie Fishing World Competition.

After three days of hard-fought fishing rivalry, Steve Lessard of the USA earned the top prize.  Richard Somerton representing Australia took home second place and Matthew Vann of the USA rounded out the top three with his third place finish.

The competitors fished for trout, flounder and redfish from identically rigged Hobie Mirage® Pro Angler 14’s, provided by Hobie Cat Company and outfitted with Lowrance® Electronics, Power-Pole® MICRO™ Anchors, Yak-Attack accessories, Ram Mounts and equipment including Daiwa, Lurefacs, Hobie Polarized and AFTCO gear.

Bassmaster Elite pro Michael “Ike” Iaconelli surprised the 49 international competitors when he showed up at the welcome dinner to cheer them on.  “Unlike the competitions that I’m involved in, kayak fishing takes more strategy because it is much different and more difficult pedaling to the fish than racing over in a motorized boat,” commented Ike.  Competitors got a double surprise when he returned to congratulate Steve on his win and participate in the camaraderie that is an integral part of the Hobie Worlds.

for-sto-12122016-fishing-picture-3of3Located in the bayous of Southern Louisiana, 90 minutes from New Orleans, Lafourche Parish is the gateway to Cajun Country and the Gulf of Mexico, offering a distinctly Louisiana “bayou” way of life and memorable experience for both U.S. and international competitors.  And then there is the fishing. According to Hobie’s Keeton Eoff, this could easily be the kayak fishing capital of the world.

“We are very proud that Hobie Fishing Worlds chose to host their international tournament in Leeville this year. One of the best assets of Lafourche Parish is the world-class fishing, and Hobie anglers have been able to experience what makes our area so exceptional.  The visibility of this tournament on a national and international level allows potential visitors to see the recreational value of our destination and why they should experience it firsthand,” said Timothy P. Bush, Executive Director of the Bayou Lafourche Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

For more information and images, log onto www.hobiefishingworlds.com, for a recapo the day by day action, check Hobie’s blogs by logging onto http://www.hobiecat.com/xe/en/blog/.

NOTE: Since 1950, Hobie has been in the business of shaping a unique lifestyle based around fun, water, and innovative quality products. From their worldwide headquarters in Oceanside, California, Hobie Cat Company manufactures, distributes, and markets an impressive collection of eco-sensitive watercraft, with subsidiaries; Hobie Cat Australasia, in Huskisson, NSW, Australia and Hobie Cat Europe, in Toulon, France and independent distributors; Hobie Kayak Europe and Hobie Cat Brasil. These products include an ever-expanding line of recreation and racing sailboats, pedal-driven and paddle sit-on-top recreation and fishing kayaks, inflatable kayaks, fishing boats, surfboards, stand-up paddleboards and the new Hobie Mirage Eclipse™ Standup pedalboards, plus a complementary array of parts and accessories.

What Can Men Learn from Lady Hunters?

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

This young lady hunter, Vanessa Toews, downed her first deer using a new firearm and ammo that she reloaded herself because she pursued ALL the details of learning to hunt. Learn the magic!

  • More Than a Sunrise Greeting!
  • Sacred Skills for Focus 
  • Natural “Learn How”

 

This young lady hunter, Vanessa Toews, downed her first deer using a new firearm and ammo that she reloaded herself because she pursued ALL the details of learning to hunt. Learn the magic!
This young lady hunter, Vanessa Toews, downed her first deer using a new firearm and ammo that she reloaded herself because she pursued ALL the details of learning to hunt. Learn the magic!

By Forrest Fisher

For learning new things about something that men are typically very good at, like hunting – when the outdoor ladies commit, they are ALL IN.  Especially when they want to be involved in ALL of the sport: aiming, shooting, reloading, hunting, cooking – it’s a long list!

It turns out – social media shows us proof with pictures and videos that women are so very good in the outdoors.  Going out on a limb here, dedicated women may be more logical and a bit more evolutionary to the task at hand than some of the men I know.  I did say “some.” Not trying to throw stones, but there’s lots of proof.

Women adjust, if only where they sit in the woods or how they hold their hunting implement of choice, and they seem to know how to make changes that can form their cornerstone for future activities.  They know about adaptability.  They know what it means to dedicate their efforts and they understand how to be comfortable and happy while exercising obligations to themselves with a vision for success.  They seem happy trying to get there and to stay responsible to achieve their purpose.

Maybe that’s it, they define the challenge and their purpose better than guys.  Maybe they read instructions better than guys – or at least maybe they read them completely.

I for one, admire these traits that I have witnessed when shooting, fishing, cooking or simply looking at new outdoor gear with women.  They ask questions outside of my perspective, especially good questions too, as they seek to validate spending their cash.  They are fundamental to seeking good answers for a solution to their question and their curiosity.  Is this a maternal instinct that men don’t have?  End of story?  Maybe not.

Especially on this item, they understand safety.  Above all, it seems once women learn, they do not forget.

Enter Vanessa Toews, an energetic young lady from postal delivery service life near Winnipeg, Canada.  Last year she set out on a mission to learn all about hunting and then wanted to go try it.

In her own words, “If I wanted to continue eating meat, I needed to see it through – beginning to end.  I needed to appreciate exactly what went into a life being taken in order to sustain mine.  I spent hours in the bush and online reading.  I did turn to experienced friends for advice and help, but I learned about details.  So many times I wanted to give up when hunting. Sitting in the cold, alone with my thoughts.  Which if you know me, can be a scary place (lol)!”

Vanessa continues, “Then last Friday I was finally given the opportunity, and with ammo that I reloaded myself, I took the shot.  Words can’t describe the experience!  I can’t thank friends and family enough for the support and also the ‘holy cow, I just shot a buck and have no idea what to do now’ phone call.”

She adds, “So there I was with my first buck, my first deer, on my first shot at a deer with ammo that I had loaded myself – a bit spooky all by itself, and I was speechless.  Just filling my freezer with organic, healthy meat from nature’s wilds for the first time.  I just felt so vital and sort of reborn in nature.  I now know why people hunt.  Wow.”  Waiting a moment and adding, she says, “You learn appreciation for the animal life cycle and ecology and survival and the heritage of our ancestors.”

For many in our modern society today, this might always be uncharted terrain.  Many may never wish to accept the challenge to learn of the extraordinary details that hunters incur for their own subsistence by choice.

Successful hunters, men and women, learn to understand their own limitations.  They accumulate unmatched insight to overcome weather and comfort, and manage other obstacles that can limit their success.   Their control of the many variables allows those that hunt to understand the age-old heritage of harvest from the woods.

So I asked Vanessa what about tomorrow, next time, next year, try it again?  She answers honestly, “I love what I do and I work hard for it.  I’m the kind of person that enjoys learning the in’s and out’s.  It’s hard to grasp concepts without knowing the fine details of how it all works.  The best part about that is, there is always something more to learn!  I’ve always been that way.”

Vanessa admits to knowing herself, “I’m very hands on and appreciate finishing a task, big or small, on my own doing.  Now some may call me stubborn (she laughed), but there’s something to be said about fully immersing yourself and feeling the rewards of accomplishing the said task.”

Providing more details, “That deer was a perfect example.  There were many times where I thought it would never happen and that maybe I just wasn’t cut out for hunting.  I can’t even count the number of times I shouldered my gun when a doe would walk in, just so that when the time did come it would be second nature.  Hunting is buck only in my hunting area, as deer populations are low.  I actually have my own property that I decided to scout and pattern the deer movements on.  I passed up on an opportunity to take a spiker last year simply for that reason. That it’s my property and I would rather see the populations flourish. “

For more info on H4350, visit: https://www.hodgdon.com/extreme.html
For more info on H4350, visit: https://www.hodgdon.com/extreme.html

She humbly adds, “On reloading, I had worked up a load for a Nosler 180 gr ballistic tip.  CCI primers, with 54.5 grains of Hodgdon 4350.  I found this to shoot the best grouping out of my Savage 30-06.  I currently have a variety of loads for the 150 gr Nosler partition with IMR 4895, but didn’t feel comfortable shooting at a deer with ammo that I haven’t tested yet.  The 180 gr was slight overkill, but reliable.  Even after mentally preparing myself for a buck, when that guy did walk in at around 60 yards and I shouldered that gun, without him even flinching, it hit me.  And I promised myself, if given the opportunity I would take it.  Words can’t begin to explain the emotions you experience in that situation.”

The big question: “Would I do it again?  The answer is yes!  As sad as it is to take a life from the woods by myself, I would much rather do that than buy meat from a store.  It’s the ultimate in cruelty free, in my opinion, and when you work that hard for your food – well, you appreciate eating it that much more!”

On Facebook, when I last checked the posting of the deer that Vanessa Toews took home, over 400 people had liked or provided comments of congratulations or thoughts.  To me, that’s amazing.  That’s progress.

When women who are successful in the outdoors share their secrets, they contribute to the growing new culture of women, and men, who consider joining the ranks of the outdoor hunter next year.  The trails for lessons to success in the woods remain hard work that many have struggled to find.

There is a wealth of wisdom to be found in learning to be a hunter.  The number of lady hunters and shooters is on the rise.  Respect them, learn from them.

Jim Zumbo – A Legend for All Time

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Leadership is Painful
  • Courage That Cannot Be Shared
  • A Personal Story, See His Blog Called Crucifixion
Jim Zumbo shared, “I had a life-changing experience this morning, and I'd like to share it. I'll never forget it. I hope you'll take the time to read it. It might make you think twice about life as well.
Jim Zumbo shared, “I had a life-changing experience this morning, and I’d like to share it. I’ll never forget it. I hope you’ll take the time to read it. It might make you think twice about life as well.

By Forrest Fisher

Sometimes we meet people and we meet new truth, the kind that can change the direction of our lives.  It’s not often, but when we do, there is a stirring among the roots that anchor our mind.  Those immovable links to common things we trust and about how we feel.  There are new questions. There is a mixture of knowledge and reflection that evolve.  We might question ourselves about fate and courage and destiny.  We might pull back from the potential precipice of public communication or we might find a new expression for the bounds of constraint we accept about certain things as right or wrong. When we meet someone that helps us reconsider all of what we thought was honed in place for a lifetime, we have met someone with true leadership.

Jim Zumbo is that kind guy.

On social media the other day, Mr. Zumbo stepped inside the new bounds of his humble view and shared something very close to his soul.  It goes like this:

Most of you know about my blog. I call it my "crucifixion." In 2006 I created what was called the biggest firestorm in the gun industry.
Most of you know about my blog. I call it my “crucifixion.” In 2006 I created what was called the biggest firestorm in the gun industry.

“I had a life-changing experience this morning, and I’d like to share it. I’ll never forget it. I hope you’ll take the time to read it. It might make you think twice about life as well.

Most of you know about my blog. I call it my “crucifixion.” In 2006 I created what was called the biggest firestorm in the gun industry. I parted company with Outdoor Life after almost 30 years, almost all my TV sponsors left me and my show was temporarily suspended. I was written up in editorials around the country, even making the front page of the New York Times. Stephen Colbert did a nasty satire about me on the Comedy Channel, and on and on. Thousands of people hated me. I received death threats, and countless, violent, vulgar comments.

As the years passed, I perceived a black cloud over my head, everywhere I went. Even when gun company CEO’s, industry leaders, and friends and strangers told me it was water under the bridge and I was accepted back in the industry, I didn’t believe it.

Kristine KJ Houtman, a novelist I have a great deal of respect for, suggested she write my biography. I resisted, because I didn’t want to relive the emotions I’d suffered years ago. The black cloud was still there.

Then, three years ago, totally unexpected, I was told I’d be receiving the Grits Gresham Award at the SHOT Show, which is produced by the National Shooting Sports Foundation. Not to blow my horn, but this is an important factor in the story here. The award, the highest honor given by the NSSF, is presented at the annual State of the Industry Banquet at SHOT, attended by some 3,000 people. I was thrilled beyond words, but then I began to worry. How would the crowd react? Would they boo, throw things on the stage? I asked Tom Gresham who would present the award, and he honestly didn’t know how the audience would react.

I was admittedly nervous and a little terrified when Tom introduced me. He wound up his intro by saying the only person who sold more guns than me was Obama. The crowd roared, and as I approached the podium I received a standing ovation. I was so overwhelmed I could hardly speak. When I stumbled through with my speech, I again received a standing ovation. Again, this is not ego talking–those ovations to me, as well as the award, were a total vindication. The black cloud was gone.

The next morning I talked to Kristine, who was also attending SHOT, and she asked if I was ready to work on the biography. I grinned ear to ear, and told her to go for it.

The book is now done, and Kristine handled the marketing. Last week she put an ad on my fan page, Jim Zumbo’s Everything Outdoors. There were about a dozen comments, half of them supportive, and the others nasty and vile. I’m fully aware that plenty of people still don’t like me, and I’ve learned to shrug off the comments. But one person commented twice, attacking me with outright lies. That upset me. Well, actually, it really pissed off. It bothered me big time.

I don’t know why, but I was compelled to write him privately. But how do I find him? I went through the slow process of looking at all the names in the Facebook world. He and I weren’t FB friends, and he had a very common name. I felt like a detective looking at hundreds of names and photos. My only hope of finding him was to match up his picture next to his comment on my fan page, with the one on the seemingly endless list. Incredibly, I found the match.

I wrote him a private FB message, politely explaining my position and telling him he had information that wasn’t true. I ended by saying Merry Christmas. Afterward I cussed myself for being so nice and for writing at all. Days went by, and I imagined him laughing his fool head off and telling his shooting buddies what a big jerk I was. I never expected to hear from him again

Photo Credit: Fish On Marketing
Photo Credit: Fish On Marketing

This morning I received a response. To me, it was a bombshell. This man, who obviously was full of hate and despised me, said, “Thank you, and Merry Christmas to you and your family.” I was overwhelmed to the point of being emotional.

And that’s my life lesson. If you reach out with an olive branch to your enemies, you may be in for a shock at their positive reaction. I will never, ever forget this.”

From my view, is there any better way to say thank you and Merry Christmas?  We know when honest men meet adversity, their character is in question and one of two things will happen.  We will lose all respect or we will gain all respect for this person and his position.  If you want to read the whole story, Zumbo’s life story, just hop on-line and order a copy of the book you’ll find here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Zumbo- K-J-Houtman/dp/0991111656/).

The Great Divine

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

for-sto-11242016-picture-1of2

By Forrest Fisher

Talented and inspirational author, K.J. Houtman, continues to provide the outdoor world thought-provoking appreciation with a common connection. This heartwarming, outdoors lady identifies ways we see our Creator in nature. On this Thanksgiving Day 2016, enjoy her wonderful poem above.

For more from K. J. Houtman, including an entire chapter book series of adventurous outdoor tales for kids, see Fish On Kids Books at www.fishonkidsbooks.com or at Amazon starting with Book #1 A Whirlwind Opener. There are six books in the series.

Houtman’s newest book (adult non-fiction) is the life story on outdoorsman Jim Zumbo (now available on Amazon, https://www.amazon.com/Zumbo-K-J-Houtman/dp/0991111656/). Check out this link:  http://www.fishonkidsbooks.com/zumbo.html.

for-sto-11242016-picture-2of2

HOT Panfish Lure for All Seasons

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

-Effortless Flash and Vibration

-Thin-Wire Hook, Power-Gap (More hookups)

-Sizes: 1/16 oz and 1/8 oz, Pre-Rigged TriggerX® Curl Tail Body 

–Long, Micro-Thin Tail Swims with a Light and Subtle Vibration

-NOT ORDINARY

for-sto-11212016-picture-1of2

By Forrest Fisher

Guys that know me know I don’t mess around with praise for no good reason, so be aware- this lure deserves special praise.

Anglers everywhere are always looking for a new, better bait that works when others just do not seem to produce.  Enter the VMC® Company who continues to produce new, game-changing tackle to help anglers catch fish after fish after fish, especially with this new lure.  With the introduction of the new VMC Curl Tail Spin Jig, the lure to start out your friends who are new to fishing has just arrived. The lure is simply irresistible to fish.  It works for crappies, bass, bluegills, walleye and many other species.  It is a dinner ticket for anything with gills and anglers that try this new lure will agree in short order.

VMC® Curl Tail Spinnerbait

VMC’s new Curl Tail Spinnerbait is NOT just another flashy finesse offering for anglers, it is one of the most effective baits for bass and panfish, and offers the added benefit of being weedless.

The Curl Tail Spinnerbait features a Colorado blade on a paperclip-style arm swinging from the eyelet of a special ball-head-type jig pre-rigged with a Trigger-X Curl Tail grub body.  Featuring a long and curled micro-thin tail, the grub undulates back and forth with very little forward movement, offering a light and subtle vibration as it swims to the speed of the angler retrieve.

The Curl Tail Spinnerbait’s jig is armed with a Power Gap hook, providing a 5 percent wider gap than traditional jig hooks.  The feature allows for a better hookup ratio.  A ball bearing swivel connects the blade to the arm attachment, allowing for maximum rotation and flash.

For shallow and deep fishing, the lure is available in 1/16-ounce and 1/8-ounce sizes.  Curl Tail Spinnerbaits are offered in for-sto-11212016-picture-2of2five color patterns: Black Chartreuse Glow, Crappie Minnow, Green Orange Glow, Pink Chartreuse Glow, Pearl White and Red Pearl Glow.

To watch a video of live, fish-catching action, click on this exciting link with VMC pro-staff angler, Chris Gillman: https://youtu.be/otzCahN3o3Y.

Cost? Under $3. Visit this link to see available colors and other details: http://blog.rapala.com/vmc/vmc-unleashes-the-new-winding-and-curl-tail-spin-jigs/.

Outdoor Pictures – Hunting With a Camera

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Advice from Tony Bynum
  • Eye Contact, Image and Action
  • Photo Gear

By Forrest Fisher

for-sto-11292016-hunting-picture-1of2

There are those incredible moments in your lifetime when you meet someone and his work, and quickly realize that even after spending a lifetime in the outdoors, there is yet another resource that you need to know so much more about.  Outdoor photography with Tony Bynum is like that.

His photography has amazed many of us in magazines, newspapers, national ad’s, art galleries and many other places.  A scientist and conservationist, Tony provides the unique resource of experience in the wilds interconnecting with educators, legislators, government representatives and many of us hunters and fishermen.

This humble professional outdoor photographer simply wants to share more about the outdoors with everyone so they can enjoy it as much as he has.

Tony Bynum is a professional outdoor photographer, a father, explorer and an unassuming person that shares his findings at conservation and outdoor media events round the country and world.  Tony is vice-president of the Professional Outdoor Media Association of America (POMA – the largest outdoor media association in the United States) for-sto-11292016-hunting-picture-2of2and his input with others there and through the web will allow many to learn more about how to find those great moments for pictures in the outdoors.

His travel experience around the world is shared in his photographs.  To learn more about better outdoor photography for FREE, Tony is providing this link for others to enjoy his new E-book “Wildlife Photography Essentials,” your experience will be unforgettable.

https://www.tonybynum.com/sign-up-for-tony-bynums-content.

Read Tony Bynum’s Free New E-book:

“Wildlife Photography Essentials”

Formula for Daily-Double Deer Success

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • Friends, Food Plots, Trail Cams are Key
  • Keep it Simple Archery Strategy 
  • Share Knowledge – Think with Confidence
There are those unforgettable treasures in hunting, such as when friends, Ryan Van Lew and Paul Murray, shared in the fun of a “Daily-Double” buck harvest hunting over food plots they planted.
There are those unforgettable treasures in hunting, such as when friends, Ryan Van Lew and Paul Murray, shared in the fun of a “Daily-Double” buck harvest hunting over food plots they planted.

By Forrest Fisher

Is there anything better that sharing a day in the archery woods with great friends and coming away with two very healthy 8-point bucks?  Tough to beat.

That’s how it was for Ryan Van Lew and Paul Murray on Saturday, Nov. 12, 2016, two team members with Hunters Creek Outdoors.  Never heard of that group?  They’re making Western New York famous by sharing what they learn and helping to mentor age groups that start with kids at Rushford Conservation Club.  These guys are opening the eyes of local sportsmen about how to attract and grow big bucks wherever you hunt.

This group works together, then they hunt simple and smart. They usually opt to pass on young healthy deer. The key to their hunting area?  Healthy food plots.

They kill their weeds each year, disc or rototill, then plant and nurture their food plots by balancing soil Ph, fertilizing and copiously planting inexpensive Ag Seed varieties.  All that together with some help from Mother Nature for moisture, and they attract and grow local deer herds into healthy giant venison on the hoof like never before.

Add the use of trail cams and strategic placement of safe, elevated, metal hunting stands and in some areas, use of ground blinds, and you have the ingredients necessary for good friends that love to hunt and harvest big deer.

Check out this Hunters Creek Outdoors video that offers a detailed prelude to this passionate group of friends that love the outdoors:  https://youtu.be/keGBY0qjKzE.

They have a Facebook page too. THEY WILL HELP YOU UNDERSTAND food plots, trail cams, bow gear, arrows, broadheads, scent control, camo and variations, target practice, friendship, fun and advanced learning through their shared knowledge.

When common folks share what they know, they become uncommonly successful.  In a group, they are an unbeatable team.  Feel free to tag along on their daily Facebook adventures as they report progress or adversity right through each hunting season: (https://www.facebook.com/HuntersCreekOutdoorsTeam/?pnref=story).  Follow them all year to learn

Van Lew watched this Ohio deer walk by, grunted him back and took him down with a perfect arrow shot.
Van Lew watched this Ohio deer walk by, grunted him back and took him down with a perfect arrow shot.

more about everything you might like to know in the outdoors.

On the day of the double deer take, the always thoughtful and jovial Van Lew shared, “Saturday’s are for the boys!  What a day it was to be a bow hunter. When the light switch kicks on during the rut.”  How exciting it is when the exposure cycle of the moon, the temperature, time of year and friends all come together in sync with sunrise and sunset where you hunt, and then the deer show up.  You can imagine.

As you follow these folks, you can feel the game-changing moments when they happen, this group has that going on.  Yet every one of these folks is humble and passionate about their success.  What better way to share and help others?

Just one week before, Van Lew made his annual trek to Ohio with some of these same friends.  Success begets successful hunters and Van Lew used his tight-flying arrows with Spitfire broadheads to drop another whitetail giant there too.

About his Ohio buck, Van Lew recollects and shares while his buddy was snapping a photo, “To sit behind this buck is an honor, watching him come up the hillside, to grunting him back to offer me the shot and then watching him fall.  For some of you who don’t hunt, the feeling is surreal.  You can’t talk, you can’t breathe, and your heart is pounding.  It’s a feeling that never gets old. Truly blessed to have had such a great hunt this morning and be able to share the excitement with the best hunting buddies a guy could ask for. Then to see my dad’s big grin on his face when I walked out of the woods today made it that much better.”  Fun?  Unforgettable?  Do it again?  Almighty YES.

for-sto-11182016-hunting-picture-3of3

Van Lew prefers to use Remington Scent Shield for his only exterior scent control.  Stuff works. The whole team uses the same.

New York Big Game Hunting Firearms Season for Southern Zone Begins November 19

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

In several areas of New York, hunters are requested to help control the doe populations, as non-resident hunter, Jeff Liebler did here with his first ever deer from New York. Forrest Fisher Photo

-Hunters encouraged to pass on young bucks

for-11152016-picture-1of2By Forrest Fisher

In the highly sportsmen populated southern zone sector of the Empire State, hunters have been waiting all year for the 3-week long big game firearms hunting season. Wait no longer, it will open this Saturday, November 19, at sunrise.

Despite an unusually balmy forecast of 60-degree weather for the 3rd Saturday in November, New York hunters will endure staying warm – especially since the peak of the rut is set to start on about the same day.  It should be a good harvest year for hunters, as the opening day of gun season and the rut rarely coincide.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos said, “New York’s deer and bear populations are great resources that provide more than nine million pounds of quality, locally grown, organic meat to families across the state and I wish all hunters a safe and successful season.”

DEC is encouraging all hunters across the state to pass up shots at young, small-antlered bucks.  In a multi-year study conducted with Cornell University, more than 7,000 hunters surveyed across the state reported wanting more opportunities for taking mature bucks without mandatory restrictions on antler size.  DEC has been working with several leading sportsmen’s groups across the state to educate hunters on their role in deer management, the impacts of harvest choices, and changes in the deer population, as more and more hunters voluntarily refrain from taking young bucks.

“Many hunters have told DEC that they would like to see older bucks and hunters can make a difference in the future of the sport by passing up young bucks,” added Commissioner Seggos.

Many hunters are already voluntarily passing up young bucks and the proportion of older bucks available in the herd has increased substantially in the past decade.  As more hunters choose to pass young bucks, all hunters will enjoy the opportunity to see and take larger, older bucks.

Regular Firearms Season for Deer and Bear Begins November 19

The 2016 regular deer and bear hunting seasons in New York’s Southern Zone begin at sunrise on Saturday, Nov. 19, and continue through Sunday, Dec. 11. The Southern Zone regular season is New York’s most popular hunting season, with about 85 percent of New York’s 550,000 licensed hunters participating.  Harvests during this season account for nearly 60 percent of the total annual statewide deer take and 30 to 60 percent of the statewide bear harvest.

In several areas of New York, hunters are requested to help control the doe populations, as non-resident hunter, Jeff Liebler did here with his first ever deer from New York. Forrest Fisher Photo
In several areas of New York, hunters are requested to help control the doe populations, as non-resident hunter, Jeff Liebler did here with his first ever deer from New York. Forrest Fisher Photo

Following the regular firearm deer and bear seasons in the Southern Zone, late bowhunting and muzzleloading seasons will run from Dec. 12 through Dec. 20.  Hunters taking part in these special seasons must possess a hunting license and either bowhunting or muzzleloading privileges.

In the Northern Zone, the regular deer and bear hunting season opened Oct. 22 and will close at sunset on Dec. 4. The Northern Zone includes the Adirondacks, Tug Hill Plateau, Eastern Lake Ontario Plain, and the Champlain and St. Lawrence valleys. A late bowhunting and muzzleloading season for deer will be open in portions of the Northern Zone from Dec. 5 to Dec. 11.

Help Protect NY Deer from Chronic Wasting Disease

Though NO new cases of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) have been found in New York deer since 2005, DEC continues to take the threat of CWD seriously.  Hunters should, too.  CWD is fatal to deer.  If introduced, CWD could spread rapidly and be practically impossible to eliminate from the wild deer herd once established.  Preventing CWD from entering New York is the most effective disease management strategy.  Hunters can help protect New York’s deer herd from CWD by following these tips:

• If hunting outside of New York, debone or quarter deer before bringing it back and follow the law about importing carcasses or carcass parts from out of state. CWD Regulations for Hunters.

• -Do not use deer urine-based lures or attractant scents.

• -Dispose of carcass waste in a landfill.

• -Report deer that appear sick or acting abnormally.

• -Hunt only wild deer and support fair chase hunting principles.

Report Your Harvest – Be Part of Game Management

Hunter contributions to deer and bear management don’t end when an animal is harvested. Successful hunters are required to report their harvest of deer and bear within seven days. However, DEC data suggest that less than half of successful deer hunters actually report. Failure to report is a violation of the Environmental Conservation Law, and it reduces the data DEC uses to manage deer and bear populations. Hunters may report via DEC’s online game harvest reporting system or by calling the toll-free automated reporting system at 1-866-GAME-RPT (1-866-426-3778).

Other Reminders for the 2016 Southern Zone Regular Hunting Season

Recent legislation allows the use of rifles for big game hunting to continue in Albany County for two years and to continue indefinitely in Livingston County. See the “Rifle, Shotgun, and Bow Areas” web page on DEC’s website for other areas where rifles can be used.

• Crossbows may be used during the regular deer seasons in all parts of New York except Westchester and Suffolk counties, and the bow-only portions of Albany and Monroe counties. Crossbows may also be used during the late muzzleloading season for hunters possessing a muzzleloading privilege. See the Crossbow Hunting web page on DEC’s website for license and training requirements, general rules, and season opportunities.

The Deer Management Focus Area (available on DEC’s website) will continue to assist communities in the Ithaca area with the burden of overabundant deer populations.

• Mandatory antler restrictions (available on DEC’s website) (three points on one side minimum) remain in effect in WMUs 3A, 3C, 3H, 3J, 3K, 4G, 4O, 4P, 4R, 4S, and 4W during all seasons for all hunters 17 years and older.

• Successful bear hunters are asked to submit a tooth from their bear to DEC so the agency can age the bear and monitor bear population dynamics. See the Bear Tooth Collection web page on DEC’s website for instructions.

• Remember, Hunger Has A Cure… The Venison Donation Program is a great way to help those less fortunate while assisting with deer management in New York.

• Remember Firearms Safety:

1. -Point guns in a safe direction.

2. -Treat every gun as if it were loaded.

3. -Be sure of the target and beyond.

4. -Keep the finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.

5. -Remember to wear Hunter Orange.

For specific descriptions of regulations and open areas, hunters should refer to the 2016-2017 Hunting and Trapping Regulations Guide available on DEC’s website. Hunters are urged to review all regulations and safety tips contained in the guide. Hunters may also be interested to read DEC’s booklet, Hunting the Black Bear in New York (PDF, 763 KB), or to review DEC’s unit-by-unit Deer Hunting Forecasts, which are both available online.

Bullets To Improve Accuracy

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

-For Hunters That Reload 

-High Performance by Design

-Free DVD

for-sto-11142016-picture-1of1

By Forrest Fisher

Rifle shooters preparing for opening day of big game firearm seasons all around the country always take the time to verify their firearms are shooting accurately at a gun range.

Shooters using stable firearm platforms test their loads and if the resulting target spread is formidable, they wonder if the dispersal is caused by their own shooting ability (trigger pull, aim, scope problem, etc.), the cartridge, the bullet size, bullet maker, and other factors like the wind and the weather.

Shooters that load their own cartridges accept that most of the variables are precisely controlled since they are loading their own.  They also accept that the bullets (projectiles) are “the same”.  Bullets are usually purchased by custom hand loaders and they are usually close to being exact duplicates of each other, though most bullets are not precisely exact.

There is a relatively new Berger Bullet that intends to eliminate bullet weight, size and shape variation.  According to Walt Berger, “Every bullet Berger makes is match grade.”

Since the key to accuracy is being consistent, each bullet is formed using one set of match grade dies.  They hold their jacket thickness to a concentricity of .0003” or less on every lot of bullets produced.

The Berger hunting bullet designs incorporate a sharp nose and slightly thinner jacket that allows the bullet to penetrate 2” to 3” before it starts to expand. The Berger bullets don’t poke through like an arrow (high weight retention, deep penetration), but instead dump energy where it is most effective, inside the animal. Using the Berger VLD bullet will result in an animal that goes down fast without having to track the wounded animal after the shot.

To order a free 30 minute video that provides more detail on the bullets, cartridge and velocity used to take several animals at a variety of ranges call 714-441-7200.

Check ‘em out on line at http://www.bergerbullets.com/information/why-berger/.

Hunting in Florida

Posted on by Forrest Fisher

-License is Required

-Small Game, Wild Turkey, Boars, Bears, Deer and more

-November is Key Month

By Forrest Fisher

for-sto-11152016-picture-1of1If you’re packing your snowbird bags already and are planning ahead to hunt in Florida this year, November in Florida is an awesome month to head for the woods.  You have the option to hunt small game, wild turkey, boars, bears, deer and more.  Regulations are not complicated, but it’s a good idea to download the syllabus for the sector area you plan to visit.

Hunting opportunities require a hunting license to participate in Florida.  The Florida resident license fee is $17, nonresidents have a choice based on length of term with the 10-day license cost of $46.50 or the year-long license for $151.50.

If you want to hunt on a WMA, you also must purchase a management area permit for $26.50. And don’t forget to obtain the brochure on

To hunt on wildlife management areas (WMAs), you must possess a management area permit ($26.50) and a hunting license, (and often other permits depending on species and season), unless exempt.  Limited entry/quota permits are required on WMAs during certain time periods. They can only be applied for during the scheduled application periods. The worksheets with the hunt choices and hunt dates are usually posted about two weeks before the permit application period opens.  For each WMA, the dates, bag limits and rules differ greatly for each area.

I noticed that there’s an alligator season too, for those looking for a bit more excitement that the quiet woods.

All necessary licenses and permits are available at any tax collector’s office, retail outlets that sell hunting and fishing gear, by calling toll-free 888-HUNT-FLORIDA or by going online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.

Lure Fishing Made Simple

Posted on by Forrest Fisher
  • How-To, Where-To, When-To
  • Size, Color, Action  
  • Develop Target Logic for Success

for-sto-11172016-picture-1of2

By Forrest Fisher

It’s hard to impress me about new fishing products, I’m an old guy who has seen quite a bit and likes to hang on to his wallet.  BUT, I was dutifully impressed by LiveTarget Lures about one year ago when on vacation and fishing in Florida.  I visited a tackle shop in Port Charlotte called “Fishin Frank’s” and was amazed by the array of lures, colors and selection criteria that the storeowner had on display in his store. This was a no-nonsense fishing shop and there was, literally, a wall full of LiveTarget Lures to view.  He went through his dissertation on why and wherefore he had this display, I liked his effort, so I bought one.  I was sold from then on, but for more than one reason.  The lures work and there is help from this lure-maker for the angler.

Of course, every angler just starting out is a bit more perplexed about lures than I was in that small tackle store. How can lures possibly work better than live bait? Can they work at all?  Lots of questions. Maybe, actually, anglers are even more than completely confused after they enter a large fishing warehouse store.  What to buy?  What color?  What size?  How to use it?  Where to use it?  So much to choose from and many more questions too.

The full-wall lure selection of LiveTarget Lures at Fish’n Frank’s in Port Charlotte, Florida, was impressive and I soon began to understand the whole philosophy idea behind the “Target” concept of this lure company that helped me to catch more fish. Forrest Fisher Photo
The full-wall lure selection of LiveTarget Lures at Fish’n Frank’s in Port Charlotte, Florida, was impressive and I soon began to understand the whole philosophy idea behind the “Target” concept of this lure company that helped me to catch more fish. Forrest Fisher Photo

Then the helpful salesman joins you because he can see that honest face and those wide eyes, and since you are agreeable, you listen up and feel better. Ah, yes, you’re going to get out there and be good at this.  Very cool, you’re up for the task and you’re excited too.

A day or two later, there you are with a sack full of new lures with your new rods and reels on your favorite fishing waterway.  All good except for one thing, you are less than encouraged to catch a fish because you’re still not sure about a lot of things.  You lack that one ingredient that all successful fishermen have, you lack confidence.  After all, this fishing is a new thing for you.  Enter LiveTarget Lures.

LiveTarget includes written instructions!  Yep, that salesman was great, but he told you so much in so little time, that not everything sank in.  The written instructions included with every LiveTarget lure are like a short story.  You can S-L-O-W D-O-W-N and read it at your own pace, you can remember it easier now.  If you forget it, you can read it again and again.  Pretty soon, it becomes a habit.  The LiveTarget folks tell us newbies what to do, why it will work, where to use it and what to do after the lure hits the water.  So don’t be scared away.

For advanced anglers who may not admit they need to be reading the instructions from lure companies, they may never find out that with LiveTarget instructions, there are valid tips for newbies and veterans of the fishing ranks that will enhance your success on the fishing front.

for-sto-11172016-picture-2of2

If the written instructions are not enough, or maybe some words are confusing to you, head back to the LiveTarget website and link up the live video that visually illustrates how the lure you are using works in the water. You can pull this in with your smartphone wherever you are.

Simple, straightforward, honest.  It’s hard to beat honest help!  The next question to answer is easy, what fish do you to catch – what do you want to target?  Head for this link and let the website help you figure it out: http://livetargetlures.com/.