July '12 ION

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VOL. 2012 • NO. 6

JUNE/JULY, 2012

Special Summer Edition

Inside:

PRELIMINARY SPRING TURKEY HARVEST RESULTS

BASS BLITZ

DNR Report -

FISHING REPORT PAGE 6

HOT WALLEYE BITE PAGE 8

Despite warmer than normal temperatures, preliminary results put the 2012 spring wild turkey harvest at fourth highest on record at 12,594 birds. Only 2010, 2009, and 2006 spring season harvests ranked higher.

The 19-day regular season (April 25-May 13) accounted for 10,993 birds harvested. Adult gobblers made up 85% of the total harvest, followed by juveniles (14%) and bearded hens (less than 1%).

Youth hunters harvested 1,592 birds during the two-day special youth season (April 21-22). Nine birds were harvested during a special Wounded Warrior turkey hunt at Camp Atterbury Joint Maneuver Training Center.

Hunter-reported harvest through the free CheckIN Game online system accounted for 2,160 (17 percent) of the total harvest. This was the first time hunters could report their turkey harvest online instead of driving to a traditional check-in station. Hunters will have the option of visiting a traditional check-in station or using the online CheckIN Game system for the upcoming fall turkey and deer seasons.

By using their unique Customer Identification (CID) number, which is found in the upper-left corner of their hunting license, hunters can quickly complete the CheckIN Game process. Lifetime license holders can search for their Customer ID number on the CheckIN Game online system, and those exempt from needing a license to hunt can fill out the required information online and a CID will be automatically assigned to them.

The final report of the spring turkey season will be available online later this month.

Many Hoosier turkey hunters like Matt Dauscher did well this past spring season, despite the unseasonable weather. Matt took this exceptional Tom April 25th in northeast Indiana and checked in at the Angler Bait Shop in Helmer. The big tom weighed in at an even 30 pounds, sported a 9-1/2-in beard and had 1-1/4-in spurs. Photo provided.

HILDRETHS BEST FIELD CRAPPIE USA QUALIFIER CURVES IN CAMO PAGES 10-11

GONE AFIELD PAGE 12

SHOOTING PAGE 14

Crappie USA held a qualifying event June 9 at Mississinewa and Salamonie Lakes in Wabash County. Anglers competed for cash and prizes along with a chance to advance to the prestigious Cabela’s Crappie USA Classic to be held October 24th-27th, 2012 on the Barkley/Kentucky Lakes at Cadiz, Kentucky.

Temperatures ranged from 68 to 90 degrees over the course of tournament day, with sunny skies and light winds. Salamonie was 13 feet low with stained water while Mississinewa was 7 feet low with stained water. Water temperatures were 74 to 78 degrees.

Semi-Pro Division Results Taking first place was the team of Charlie Hildreth of Gaston,IN and Paul Hildreth of Muncie with a weight of 7.97 pounds and earning $1,000.00. Charlie and Paul were spider rigging on Salamonie using purple/chartreuse and orange/chartreuse Southern Pro Tubes tipped with shiners on ledges at 4 feet deep to catch 75-100 fish for the day.

Team Hildreth also won the Ranger Cup Award and an additional $500.00 in the Semi-Pro Division.

Second place went to Don

ION reader, Craig Stanley, displays a 5.03-lb. largemouth caught June 9th in a Zone 1 District 3 Top 8 tournament on Kosciusko County’s Lake Wawasee. The big bass ate a 5” Hula Grub. Indiana’s bass anglers are reporting good action throughout the state, despite warm temperatures and low water levels. Check out pages 6, 7 and 11 inside for more bass fishing stories and information.

Upload and share shots of your next lunker catch at www.IndianaOutdoorNews.net.

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Charlie and Paul Hildreth of Gaston and Muncie took 1st place in the Semi-Pro Division with a total weight of 7.97-lbs. Crappie USA photo.

Licht of Indianapolis and Doug Sikoora of Noblesville, weighing in 7.9 pounds and earning $600.00.

Don and Doug were also fishing Salamonie on the upper end in 2-4 feet of water on wood using bladed Crappie Pro jigs on bottom and plain hooks on top tipped with shiners, slow trolling to catch 75 fish for the day.

In third place was the Anderson team of Don Mandrell and Ron Bilbrey, weighing in 7.28 pounds and earning $400.00. Don and Ron were fishing near the middle of Salamonie spider rigging with most of their fish caught 2 feet

Continued on Page 15

Upcoming Reserved Hunt Opportunities Beginning July 1, hunters can apply for the following reserved hunt opportunities: Dove, Military/Refuge Deer Firearm & Archery, State Park Deer Reduction, and Pheasant Draw hunts. Go to www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/5834.htm to get specific details.

The Pheasant draw hunts are at Game Bird Habitat Areas in Benton, Newton and White counties. These areas were purchased or leased with funds from the Game Bird Habitat Stamp that is required when hunting pheasant, quail, dove, wild turkey, and ruffed grouse. The game bird habitat stamp is included in the resident youth hunt/trap license and the comprehensive lifetime hunting licenses.

2012-13 Hunting and Trapping Guide A full-version, 52-page, Indiana Hunting & Trapping Guide is coming back and will be available at retailers in late-July. This is slightly later than usual, but it’s worth the wait. In addition to the printed guide, an online version will be available in multiple formats.

COMPLIMENTS OF:

POSTMASTER: Please deliver by July 9

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INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2012©

2012 Special Summer Edition

The Jamoca Almond Fudge of Fishing Destinations ® Volume 2012 • Number 6

JOSHLANTZ Niagara Falls gets a lot of attention. And rightly so. Its namesake falls are one of the world’s most beautiful and stunning natural wonders. Its seemingly endless list of family-friendly attractions provides unique and memorable experiences for any budget. And, of course, there’s the thrillseeker factor. Occasionally, someone does something crazy at Niagara Falls like walk across the gorge on a 2” wire, which is pretty spectacular stuff -- even if he is wearing a safety harness.

But the area surrounding Niagara Falls, NY doesn’t get nearly enough attention from most anglers, even though -- in my opinion -- it is the finest and mostunique freshwater fishery in the lower 48.

Consider the angling happenings during my latest visit to Niagara last May. I was playing ringleader for a group of my outdoor-writing heroes at one of the Association of Great Lakes Outdoor Writers’ annual events. I was one of sixteen media anglers and a handful of industry representatives fishing the waters surrounding Niagara County, NY over 4 half-day sessions.

The lower Niagara River is indeed a mighty torrent, rushing some 14-miles from the falls downstream to Lake Ontario. But the

river widens enough below the historic Village of Lewiston that it can be fished from almost any craft -something I got the chance to do during the first morning of our event.

I was fortunate to be one of the first members of the outdoor media to fish out of Hobie’s new Mirage Pro Angler 12 -- a brand new, tricked out version of the company’s larger and highly successful Pro Angler 14. The Mirage Drive is unique to Hobie and employs a super efficient peddle drive system that leaves an angler’s hands free for fishing and netting - something I did plenty of that morning. The lower Niagara is a river smallmouth fishery on steroids, and we caught several nice bronzebacks between 2 and 5 pounds while twitching a Rapala X-Rap along the edge of the river channel. It was a brilliantly unique experience and I still cannot believe how effortlessly the Mirage Drive Hobies moved -- even against a steady 3 mph current.

I jumped into Captain Frank Campbell’s Lund after lunch with Shimano American rep Kevin Fahey. We were given the choice of heading up into Devil’s Hole for steelhead, lake trout and smallmouth, or turning downstream towards the famed Niagara Bar where we’d catch who knows what on any given cast. The emerald shiners were literally pouring out of the river, serving up a non-stop buffet to the three species of salmon, three species of trout, lamp-sized smallmouth bass and more which were all “bellied up to the bar”. We opted for the downstream option. The X-Rap had worked well that morning, and I didn’t want to ruin my mojo. So when Kevin handed me an ultra

sweet 7’ G.Loomis NRX spinning rod spooled with PowerPro line on an equally sweet 2500 Shimano Stradic CI4 spinning reel, that’s what I tied on -- a classic silver/blue X-Rap. We went on the attack with our high-end light tackle and Captain Frank delivered.

My most memorable catch was a chunky brown trout in the neighborhood of 10-pounds, which absolutely murdered my lure just seconds after it hit the water.

The next morning brought more stellar smallmouth fishing -this time on the other end of the river, upstream of the falls where Lake Erie becomes the Niagara River in the shadows of downtown Buffalo. I was fishing with my friends, Captain Jeff Draper and Captain Pat Kalmerton. Jeff is an experienced Niagara Region guide and Captain Pat represents Frabill and operates Wolf Pack Adventures -- a significant sportfishing and hunting operation out of Sheboygan, WI. We were dropshotting live emerald shiners inside Buffalo Harbor, where the smallies were in all phases of the spawn. I caught two bass over two pounds on my first two drops and the action continued all morning long.

While most of the bass were smaller (relatively speaking, of course), I did manage one 4-pounder, and Captain Pat put one in the Frabill that nudged 5.

Lake Ontario currently has the healthiest forage base of any of the Great Lakes, a fact punctuated by the deep bellies on the trout and salmon you’ll catch there. I was supposed to venture out of the Port of Olcott the afternoon of our second day, but a strong Northwest wind slammed the door on my plans. Thankfully, there is always another spot to fish in Niagara

Brent Wheat Photo.

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I launched my own boat at Lewiston with friends Curt Hicken and Rick Story, and we made the short run upriver to Devil’s Hole, a scenic and superb fishing spot that’s the end of the line for most craft -- unless you happen to be aboard one of the 7,000 horsepower Whirlpool Jet tour boats. Devil’s Hole is aptly named. Much of the water coming down the Niagara River from Lake Erie is bypassed around the falls through giant channels on both the U.S. and Canadian

sides of the river. This water reenters the lower Niagara at scenic Devil’s Hole, where both countries operate massive hydroelectric power generating facilities. The flows and treacherous currents are magnets to all manner of gamefish throughout the year, while whirlpools and giant boulders add to the danger of this famous spot. I don’t recommend bringing your own boat into Devil’s Hole unless you’ve fished it enough to learn where and where not to put a boat.

I’ve fished Devil’s Hole dozens of times, but it still took all of my concentration to keep the boat off of the rocks and in position for Curt and Rick to catch fish. Most anglers drift fish with three-way rigs tipped with spawn bags or minnows in Devil’s Hole -- a great plan if you’re targeting steelhead or lake trout. But we simply couldn’t get enough of the area’s giant smallmouth, so -- you guessed it -we cast to the banks with our XRaps, catching several nice bass in the process.

While the fishing at both ends of the Niagara River on Lake

Continued on Page 14

2012 Special Summer Edition

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2012©

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INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2012©

CALLS AND EMAILS TO U.S. SENATORS SPORTSMEN’S HERITAGE ACT

by Bill Horn, U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance In March and April, bi-partisan majorities in the House Natural Resources Committee and the full U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 4089, the Sportsmen’s Heritage Act of 2012 -- the most significant fishing, hunting, and shooting legislation passed in the last 15 years, the bill included two primary features: (1) confirmation of federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rulings that the agency does not have authority to ban lead in ammunition or fishing gear and (2) game changing new law establishing that Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service lands (totaling more than 700 million acres of public lands) are open to fishing, hunting, and shooting unless and until the agencies take specific action to impose closures or restrictions. And closures and restrictions must be necessary and based on sound science and evidence.

Now it’s the U.S. Senate’s turn. Unfortunately the gridlocked upper chamber is highly unlikely to allow the bill to pass as a stand alone bill (i.e., going through committee to the Senate floor). Instead, the fishing and hunting community is working together to add a Sportsmen’s Heritage package to the pending Senate Farm Bill – S. 3240.

At press time, the precise content of this Sportsmen’s package remains unresolved. Senators Jon Tester (D-MT) and John Thune (R-SD), the Senate chairmen of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, have put together a set of fishing/hunting/shooting bills – Amendment No. 2231 – to be added to the Farm Bill.

This amendment package includes the important provision protecting traditional ammunition and fishing gear. And the need for this protection was demonstrated anew by yet another lawsuit just filed by the usual suspects (Center for Biological Diversity et al.) to force EPA to ban traditional ammunition, lead fishing sinkers, etc.

Unfortunately, the Tester/Thune Amendment does not include the other cornerstone provision of the House bill – making BLM and Forest public lands open until closed to fishing/hunting/shooting.

Intransigent opposition from some environmentalists and anti-hunting interests, coupled with continuing opposition from Senate Committee Chairs, kept the “open until closed” designation out of the Amendment.

This language is absolutely critical to the future of hunting, fishing and recreational shooting on public

CRITICAL TO PASSAGE OF

land. Without it, anti-hunting groups will continue to bring one frivolous lawsuit after another to prevent lands from being opened to sportsmen, bleeding the agencies dry of money, and making them much more reluctant to make new opportunities available. The “Open Until Closed” language puts a stop to this nonsense, and that is what USSA is unwilling to let it be left out without a fight.

Fortunately some of our best friends in the U.S. Senate, Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Joe Manchin (DWV), and Jim Risch (R-ID) are supporting us in this effort. Late last month, Senators Murkowski and Manchin dropped in Amendment No. 2423 seeking to add the “open until closed” language to the Caucus Amendment. We will be working hard to secure Senate passage of “open until closed,” along with the crucial EPA lead provision, as part of the overall Sportsmen’s package. And individual anglers, hunters, and shooters need to be pressing their Senators – immediately – to strongly support the MurkowskiManchin amendment (No. 2423) as well as the Tester/Thune amendment (No. 2231).

The outlook is fuzzy. There are over 200 other proposed amendments to the Farm Bill. Senate Leadership may not allow amendments to be offered.

Or they may not allow the Senate to consider the Tester/Thune package or the Murkowski-Manchin amendment. Because the Farm Bill carries a nearly $1 trillion price tag, and includes programs like increases in food stamps, the whole bill may not pass at all.

USSA’s plan is to stay focused on the hunterfriendly amendments and get them through the Senate in some manner shape or form. We’re convinced that will set the stage for negotiations with the House leadership (Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) and Natural Resources Committee Chairman Doc Hastings (RWA) yielding a final version of H.R. 4089 that will protect traditional ammunition and protect fishing, hunting, and shooting on BLM and Forest public lands.

Now is the time for sportsmen and women to act.

Get on the phone, email or fax machine and tell your Senators to support Murkowski-Manchin (Amendment No. 2423) and the Tester-Thune Amendment (No. 2231) to protect hunting, fishing, and recreational shooting on public lands. You can find their phone numbers by using the USSA Legislative Action Center.

NATIVE CISCOES THREATENED BY NORTHERN PIKE DNR REPORT -A catch of two Northern pike during a recent DNR fish survey at Crooked Lake near Columbia City is increasing concern that the predatory fish may harm the lake’s fragile cisco population.

The Northern pike measured 27 and 29 inches long and marked the third time in four years that pike have been detected in the 206-acre natural lake.

Pike can grow more than 3 feet long and typically prey on suckers and perch.

Ciscoes, where present, can make up an important part of their diet.

In Indiana, the cisco, a close relative to trout and salmon, is classified as a “species of special concern” due to a drastic decline in numbers. Only 13 Indiana lakes still contain ciscoes, down from more than 40 lakes in the 1950s.

Although most of the cisco decrease in Indiana lakes has been linked to declines in water quality, predator fish may play a role in limiting cisco numbers.

Crooked Lake still contains one of the largest remaining cisco populations in the state. Before 2009, however, no Northern pike were known to occur in the lake. Five pike have since been netted in the lake: two in September 2009, one in June 2010 and two this month.

Biologists speculate that anglers may have caught Northern pike elsewhere and illegally released them in Crooked Lake.

According to Indiana law (IC 14-22-9-8), anyone who stocks a fish in public waters under state control must first get a permit from the DNR. Catching fish in one lake and releasing them in another lake without an approved permit is a Class C misdemeanor.

Livewells on boats filled with water make it easy for anglers to transport fish but difficult for conservation officers to control illegal stocking.

Although the current number of Northern pike in Crooked Lake is apparently low, they could reproduce and become a dominant cisco predator.

Biologists say it is too early to tell if pike are spawning in the lake. They won’t know unless and until they begin to catch small, young pike.

Two illegally stocked Northern pike were also netted in 2009 at Loon Lake, located about two miles west of Crooked Lake. None were found at Loon Lake during a recent survey.

2012 Special Summer Edition

BOWHUNTING WORKSHOP HELPS ADULTS TEACH OUTDOOR SKILLS TO KIDS Hoosiers interested in preserving Indiana’s bowhunting heritage can attend a July 26 workshop at Atterbury Fish & Wildlife Area that will teach them how to plant the necessary seeds. The program is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The target audience is adults who work with children, ages 11-17. This includes school teachers, after-school teachers, outdoor educators, parks and recreation program leaders, scout leaders and camp counselors.

The workshop, called Explore Bowhunting, is designed not only to help adults teach bowhunting skills but also instill a respect for and comfort with the outdoors to preteens and teenagers. It is being offered for the first time in Indiana, run by the DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife’s Hoosier Outdoor Heritage Program.

Participants do not need prior experience with bowhunting.

Explore Bowhunting is free and is funded through a partnership between the Archery Trade Association and DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife.

For more information and to register, contact Amanda Wuestefeld at (317) 547-2075 or awuestefeld@dnr.IN.gov.

BOWFIN MISTAKEN FOR SNAKEHEADS DNR REPORT — When a Fort Wayne angler caught two odd-looking fish from the Pigeon River in LaGrange County, he thought they were snakeheads, an invasive species that biologists fear could wreak havoc on native fish.

But as has happened with other reports of what someone thought were snakeheads, the dark green, slimy, toothy fish that 27-year-old Jeremy Hennen caught were not the exotic predator from Asia. They were run-of-the-mill bowfin—or what some anglers call dogfish.

The mistake is easy to make. Bowfin and snakeheads look alike.

Both have round tails and long dorsal fins that stretch along their backs. They each have teeth. Both live in similar habitats and are capable of breathing surface air by using the air bladder as a lung.

Each can survive dry periods by burying themselves in mud.

In contrast, bowfin are generally greener and have a short anal fin. The anal fin on a snakehead extends more than half the length of the dorsal fin. The head of a bowfin is more rounded than a snakehead and, unlike a snakehead’s, the bowfin’s upper jaw is longer than its lower jaw.

Bowfin also have a large spot in front of the tail. The bulls-eye snakehead does too, but the giant snakehead and Northern snakehead do not.

Bowfin are native and common in lakes and rivers throughout Indiana. Snakeheads are present in several states, particularly along the East Coast, but have not been found in Indiana. DNR officials hope to keep it that way.

To reduce the risk of snakeheads escaping into the wild, it is illegal for anyone to possess a live snakehead in Indiana, even in an aquarium. Anyone who catches or possesses a snakehead is also obligated to kill it. The DNR will provide euthanizing assistance if needed.

Hennen, who has fished since he was 7 years old, caught the bowfin while fishing for catfish and using hotdogs as bait.

He had never caught a bowfin before and was unsure of what he had. “So I let them go. I didn’t want to kill them,” he said.

“That’s OK,” said Jed Pearson, DNR fisheries biologist. “Bowfin evolved as a natural part of fish communities and don’t pose any ecological danger. But fishermen need to be on the lookout for snakeheads and know what to do if they catch one.”

Hennen forwarded two photos of his fish to Pearson for identification.

More information on bowfin and snakeheads can be found at: dnr.IN.gov/files/SNAKEHEADS.pdf.

Native Bowfin

Invasive Northern Snakehead

2012 Special Summer Edition

2012 July 01 Sun 02 Mon 03 Tue 04 Wed 05 Thu 06 Fri 07 Sat 08 Sun 09 Mon 10 Tue 11 Wed 12 Thu 13 Fri 14 Sat 15 Sun 16 Mon 17 Tue 18 Wed 19 Thu 20 Fri 21 Sat 22 Sun 23 Mon 24 Tue 25 Wed 26 Thu 27 Fri 28 Sat 29 Sun 30 Mon 31 Tue

A.M. Minor 3:07 4:07 5:14 6:24 7:33 8:42 9:47 10:50 11:50 --------12:31 1:05 1:43 2:26 3:14 4:08 5:06 6:07 7:09 8:14 9:18 10:25 11:31 --------12:11 12:59 1:54 2:57 4:04

A.M Major 10:43 11:42 12:16 1:17 2:13 3:07 3:56 4:55 5:26 6:10 6:54 7:38 8:23 9:09 9:56 10:45 11:34 12:03 12:53 1:42 2:31 3:18 4:07 4:56 5:46 6:39 7:34 8:32 9:30 10:28 11:25

P. M. Minor 6:19 7:18 8:11 8:54 9:32 10:05 10:35 --------12:50 1:48 2:46 3:41 4:36 5:27 6:16 7:00 7:39 8:15 8:48 9:19 9:50 10:21 10:53 12:40 1:49 2:58 4:05 5:06 6:00 6:47

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2012©

P.M. Major --------12:42 1:39 2:32 3:23 4:11 4:56 5:40 6:25 7:09 7:55 8:42 9:31 10:20 --------12:22 1:11 1:58 2:46 3:34 4:23 5:12 6:04 7:00 7:58 8:59 10:01 ---------

Sunrise 6:20 6:21 6:21 6:22 6:22 6:23 6:24 6:24 6:25 6:26 6:26 6:27 6:28 6:28 6:29 6:30 6:31 6:32 6:32 6:33 6:34 6:35 6:36 6:37 6:38 6:38 6:39 6:40 6:41 6:42 6:43

Sunset 9:17 9:17 9:16 9:16 9:16 9:16 9:15 9:15 9:15 9:14 9:14 9:13 9:13 9:12 9:12 9:11 9:10 9:10 9:09 9:08 9:08 9:07 9:06 9:05 9:04 9:03 9:02 9:01 9:00 8:59 8:58

Fishing Quality / Notes Fair Fair Poor Fair Fair / Full Moon Fair Fair Fair Poor Poor Fair / Waning Half Moon Fair Fair Fair Fair Fair Good Good / New Moon Good Good Good Fair Fair Fair Poor Poor / Waxing Half Moon Fair Fair Poor Fair Fair

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Indiana Outdoor Calendar - July June 30-July 1: Skamania Mania Fishing Tournament in Michigan City (more info at http://mcsummerfest.org/index.php/summer-festival-events/6-skamania-mania-fish ing-tournament) July 10-13: Wilderness Day Camp at Mounds State Park (more info at http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2977.htm) July 14: Hunter Safety Course at Portage Bass Pro Shops store (call 219-787-6800 to pre-register) July 14: Reelman Patoka Lake Open Fishing Tournament (more info at http://www.fishin.com/forums2/showthread.php?t=93898) July 15: Indiana Bass Federation Tanner’s Creek Invitational Tournament (more info at http://indianabass.com/tournaments/invitational-trail/) July 16-20: Accelerated Master Naturalist Class at Ft. Harrison State Park (call 317-327-7180 or email Frank.Rouse@indy.gov, or visit indianamasternaturalist.org for more info) July 21: Fly Fishing Workshop at the Clarksville Bass Pro Shops store (call 812-218-5500 to sign up) July 24-27: Naturalist Day Camp at Mounds State Park (more info at: http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2977.htm) July 26: Bowhunting Workshop at Atterbury FWA (Call 317-547-2075 or email awuestefeld@dnr.IN.gov for more info) • A variety of Hunter Education courses are offered around the state this month. For details, visit www.in.gov/dnr/lawenfor/4812.htm.

• For current information about Ducks Unlimited banquets and events throughout Indiana this month, visit www.ducks.org/indiana.

• For a list of National Wild Turkey Federation events in Indiana this month, go to www.nwtf.org/in_your_state/banquet.php.

A Marketplace for the Outdoor Enthusiast!

ACROSS 1 A young turkey 6 Good bait for muskie fishing 9 1 down is classified as this 11 A species of squirrel 12 term for an in-hole fireplace 14 Code for a type bullet 15 Act of carrying canoe or kayak overland 16 A small game 18 Wingshooting is ____shooting 19 Shotgun type: ____ by ____ 21 A species of the duck 22 Name for the chinook salmon 24 A species of squirrel 26 Code for a type bullet 28 He hunts with arrows 30 Gun system that activates the shell 31 To stalk a game's trail 32 Code for a bullet 34 Good time to hunt whitetails 35 A shot that misses the target 38 To pull the bowstring 39 A species of the quail 42 A game behavior pattern 43 A type bait good for smalmouth 46 A game's pathway 47 Most populated elk State 48 A species of duck 49 A reticle in a gun scope 50 A wood used for arrow shafts

DOWN 1 A tasty pan fish 2 Shotgun model, over and _____ 3 The fur seeker's equipment 4 A very good breed of gundog 5 Another wood used for arrow shafts 7 A device in a gun receiver 8 A darting bait, jigging _____ 10 A trail bait, scent ____ 13 A species of deer 17 Thrown out of the boat 19 A type sport fishing 20 Act of preparing a fly lure 23 This removes a fired case 24 A type of hunting blind 25 Sound made by the wild turkey 27 A group of pheasants 29 Wilfowl haven for rearing 32 Act of fish to migrate/lay eggs 33 A duck species 36 A marsh and swamp species of this 37 Brings a big catch into the boat 39 A duck hunters lure 40 A type of icefishing auger 41 A shooter's practise area 43 A leading commercial fish 44 An angler’s exclamation when he figures out the pattern 45 A name for the sea bass

Answers on page 12!

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INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2012©

JIMBIDDLE I think the early warm weather this year has affected the biological clocks of the deer around my place. For the past two weeks I have watched them browsing under the apple trees in my backyard. I know they are checking for fallen apples. I guess they feel it has been warm long enough that the apples should be there. I am almost tempted to dump some apples there just to keep their spirits up.

I am a little confused by the weather myself, as it feels like the dog days of summer already.

Many areas are experiencing low water but everything is still fishable and hopefully we will get some more rain soon.

Lake Michigan Glen Cajewski at Mik-Lurch Tackle in Hammond tells me the hotspot for trout is the pier at Michigan City. Glen says they’re taking Skmania steelhead on shrimp under a bobber. You could also try a Little Cleo or other spoon. Expect some good perch

action in the Portage area this month. Willow Sough is still producing some nice bluegill action.

Wolf Lake is the spot for walleye you can take them with jumbo leeches. If you want some chinook or coho salmon action try trolling with small spoons or dodgers and purple flies.

Saint Joseph River Dick Parker from Parker’s Central Bait and Tackle in Mishawaka says the walleye fishing in the upper river from Twin Branch to Elkhart is the best he’s seen in years. To get your share use crawlers, minnows or small crankbaits.

East Central Indiana Ed Gipson at Peacepipe Bait & Tackle in Andrews reports good white bass fishing around the 105 bridge using night crawlers.

They’re taking some huge catfish in the area on trotlines. Crappie action is good but getting the keeper size is kind of tough. Bluegill are still going strong with bee moths and wigglers.

West Central Indiana Terry Raines at Twin Lakes Fish & Game in Monticello says even with the low water fishing is good. The silvers and wipers are hitting on swim baits, gay blades and Cleos. The best action seems to be at the dam using gay blades.

Bluegill are still hitting on bee moths, wigglers and crickets. The

large and smallmouth bass are hitting on tube style baits and jigs.

Some really nice sized bass have been taken in the recent bass tourneys. Catfish action is so still going strong . Sounds like you can’t go wrong unless you don’t have a line in the water!

North Central Indiana Jim Housmen at Ye Old Tackle Box in North Webster reports great bass action on Wawasee using soft plastics, wacky rigs and top waters.

Musky action is slowing down in the area but they’re still taking a few. Catfish action is picking up in the area and bluegills are still hitting the wigglers.

Central Indiana Richard McCalla at the Bait Barn in Indianapolis says the fishing is getting pretty tough in his area. However, they are getting some nice smallmouth with minnows and worms. If you try fishing the rivers or creeks in the area look for the pools of deeper water if you want some action. Crappie and bluegill are still hitting and the white bass are providing some action in Eagle Creek.

Northwest Indiana Penny Boisvert at Greenwood Bait Shop in English Lake says the Kankakee is low but still fishable.

The recent rains will certainly be a welcome relief. The Ten Mile Road at Kankakee Fish & Wildlife

Area is a good spot to catch some smallmouth bass with golden roach minnows or whatever you want to try! Horseshoe Bend just South of LaCrosse is the place to hook yourself a crapppie or bluegill with a jumbo redworm or a cricket. They’re taking some nice catfish on yoyo limb lines out of the river using cutbait. Frog season opened recently and Penny has everything you need to get yourself a nice mess of frog legs. If you’re going for frogs, try the river along the Ten Mile Road.

Southwest Indiana Dedra Hawkins at the Fishin Shedd in Bloomington reports some great catfish action at Monroe Reservoir. Dedra says they are bringing in cats weighing upwards of 40 pounds! If you want take one try night crawlers, chicken livers or chubs. The bass are also hitting especially well on spinnerbaits in shallow water. Walleyes are still being taken from the big water by trolling with night

Spoiled for life...

7 year-old Gavin Kole caught this 23-inch largemouth in LaPorte County on a YUM Houdini Shad. It was Gavin’s first time bass fishing. Way to go, kid! Josh Lantz photo.

2012 Special Summer Edition

crawlers and spoons.

The bluegills and crappies are still plentiful, so head down to Southwest Indiana and catch your limit.

Well, have a happy and safe fourth of July. Enjoy the family picnics and gatherings, then slip out later and head for your favorite fishing hole. In this warm weather be sure and take plenty of water or other cool drinks. And it’s not wimpy to use sun screen. Well, I’m out of here for now, so remember what Ol’ JB always says, “ no matter what the weather, the fish will be biting somewhere and it’s your job to find that place.” Good luck and I’ll see you next month.

2012 Special Summer Edition

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2012©

Page 7

Is a slot limit good for the St. Joe?

LOUIESTOUT Indiana's approval of a new bass slot limit for Hoosier rivers and streams went into effect in late May, much to the chagrin of Michiana bass groups.

Several have let it be known that they were surprised the DNR proposal passed, yet admit they didn't speak up when the DNR rolled it out.

Shame on them.

The proposal has been covered repeatedly in this space, including a column in which we raised concerns about the section that makes young bass legal table fare.

Apparently, no one took the DNR seriously until the law was approved. According to DNR records, less than a handful of northern anglers submitted comments during the comment period.

So, the proposal sailed through DNR channels with little fanfare and went into effect in late May. That's how democracy works.

As a result, no bass 12 to 15 inches may be kept and only two over 15 inches may be kept per angler. The five fish bag limit

remains the same.

Previously, the law allowed anglers to possess five bass that measure of a minimum of 12 inches in any species.

The new regulations apply to most Indiana streams; the 14-inch size limit on lakes remains the same.

And while most bass clubbers say the slot limit will bugger up their river tournaments, I'm more concerned about how many lil' bass will get filleted now that it's legal to keep them.

The DNR believes the slot limit “will afford increased protection, particularly for smallmouth bass populations, and may increase the quality of smallmouth bass fishing opportunities in certain streams.”

Initially, the NRC asked for a blanket 14-inch bass size limit for rivers to match that in most lakes, which, to those of us in the northern part of the state, makes more sense.

But some biologists, especially southern Indiana fish managers, objected. They had two concerns: 1) that small bass would be “stockpiled” and create an imbalance in size structure, and 2) that 14 inches gave unnecessary protection for non-native and prolific spotted bass that compete with smallmouth bass. Spotted bass rarely grow larger than 12 inches in streams and are

more prominent in southern flowages.

While I agree that the slot limit should produce a few bigger fish, one has to question the rationale of allowing small bass to be kept. That may not be a major issue in southern Indiana, but it could be a detriment to rivers like the St. Joe that receive a lot of urban fishing pressure.

As any experienced bass angler will tell you, catching small bass, especially smallmouth, is not a problem. They'll bite a worm dangling from a bobber or anything else you put in front of them.

And to those who like to keep fish, small bass are tastier than larger ones. A lot of 10 inchers will go home in buckets and land in skillets.

Besides, the former 12-inch size limit offered adequate protection and there's been no “stock-piling” on the St. Joe. Furthermore, there are few if any spotted bass in the St. Joe. So, why not limit the slot protection to smallmouth?

The DNR says that limiting the regulation to smallies or providing special restrictions on different bodies of water would complicate the law even more, yet it imposed exceptions for the Ohio River which borders Kentucky.

Ohio River anglers will fish under the current 12-inch minimum size

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limit and 6-fish bag limit to match new regulations.

Let's hope they prove me Kentucky. However, on tributaries on the Ohio River within counties wrong. that border the Ohio River, the size limit is 12 with a bag limit of five. If that's not confusing enough, the slot limit does apply to Ohio River tributaries once they e x t e n d upstream beyond that county line.

If they can set special regulations on the Ohio, why not impose special regulations for the popular St. Joe (which, frankly, didn't need these changes in the first place)?

Biologists say they will Eddie Campbell and his father drive from the Chicago monitor bass area a couple times per year to catch and release populations in smallies on the St. Joe River. Big ones like this 18the St. Joseph incher are what they come for. Time will tell if over the next few years to Indiana’s new black bass river slot limit improves what evaluate the is already a super fishery. Josh Lantz photo. effects of the

Page 8

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2012©

by JOSHLANTZ

L

World class fishing, family fun, relaxation and value await visitors on Patoka Lake’s pristine and uncrowded waters this fall and late summer.

ocated just south of French Lick and West Baden Springs at the intersection of Dubois, Orange and Crawford Counties, the 8,800 acre Patoka Lake is one of eight Indiana reservoirs designed and constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Young by lake standards, Patoka was opened to the public in August of 1980. Here you will find expanses of calm, sapphire waters protected by rolling hills and dense forests.

Such beautiful waters deserve beautiful surroundings. There is very little private development on Patoka Lake. Instead, it is surrounded by over 25,000 acres of state and national forest lands.

There are four separate State Recreation Areas -- Lick Fork, Jackson, Tillery Hill and NewtonStewart -- in addition to portions of the Hoosier National Forest and other federal lands controlled by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

All of these lands are public and offer great amenities like a 1,200 foot-long beach, nearly 600 campsites in three different campgrounds, ten public boat ramps, and miles of hiking trails. All of this wild land is a mecca for wildlife.

Eagles and Ospreys soar overhead, while deer and wild turkeys feed along the shore.

Patoka is a boater’s and angler’s dream. It is one of the cleanest, least-crowded lakes in the nation. The lake is known for its great fishing for largemouth bass, catfish, bluegill, redear, smallmouth and trophy striped bass, but may be best known for its exceptional crappie fishing. But Patoka’s angling story has gotten even better over the past few years. Five years ago, you see, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources began stocking walleyes into Patoka’s productive waters. And today, some truly remarkable catches are being made.

If all of this sounds good, get out your September calendars and start planning your getaway; perhaps during your kids’ fall break?

Chances are you’ll get to Patoka on a single tank of gas, and I haven’t even told you the best part yet.

The Place to Be on Patoka Lake Jeff and Shellie Dukes own and operate Hoosier Hills Marina - a clean and friendly place tucked neatly into a cove on the west end of Patoka Lake. The marina has

2012 Special Summer Edition

everything you’d expect from a full service marina, plus a lot more.

They offer rental slips from 20-to80-feet, small boat rentals, fuel, a convenience store and -- their most-recent addition -- Patoka Lake Pizza and Wings, a welcomed addition on the lake serving great pizza, wings, sandwiches and breadsticks.

Just hail them on channel 69 on your marine radio and your order will be ready in no time!

Perhaps the best part of Hoosier Hills Marina, however, is their fleet of beautiful and wellappointed houseboats. Think totally self contained cabin right on the water. Then add an outboard motor.

Hoosier Hills Marina offers affordable houseboat vacations on a fleet of clean and comfortable, selfcontained houseboats ranging from 58-feet to 72-feet in length.

Economical and easy to operate, each houseboat contains all the amenities of home -- comfortable beds, multiple bathrooms, full kitchens, gas grills and entertainment systems. Tow along your own fishing boat or rent one from the marina and you’ll be experiencing Patoka Lake in the very best way possible. Fish or play all day, then anchor in a secluded cove for a peaceful night’s rest like you

2012 Special Summer Edition

haven’t had in years. The kids can have their own bedrooms.

Patoka Lake is never crowded, but there are a lot fewer visitors to the area after Labor Day. Combine this with September’s beautiful weather and great fishing and you’ve got yet another great reason to plan a late-summer Patoka getaway. Even better, Jeff and Shellie are offering some great special savings for folks coming in after Labor Day, including 20% off any houseboat rental. While the houseboats are easy to operate and the Hoosier Hills staff will go over all aspects of their use and operation, many visitors prefer to keep the houseboats dockside and use them as stationary, floating cabins. In recognition of this, Hoosier Hills will rent houseboats as floating cabins after Labor Day for as little as $250/night for a 4 bedroom boat!

There is a lot of room on these boats, so think about sharing the experience (and the expense) with another family and a good deal gets even better. Rent one of Hoosier Hills’ versatile fishing boats for an additional $50/day, and your vacation package is complete!

Patoka Lake Fishing Update I spoke with Jeff recently

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2012©

about Patoka’s unique fishery. He said the bass, bluegill and white bass fishing has remained consistent, and also mentioned that the striper fishing is good too -- as long as you can find the fish. September and October are good months for striper fishing, as they often follow the shad into the creek arms where they can often be found busting the schools of bait on the surface.

Jeff told me that this past spring provided some of the best crappie fishing on Patoka he can remember, with multiple catches of 1-1/2 to 2-lb. crappies being made in March. While the crappie action slows a bit in the summer, Jeff expects this fall to be as good or better for giant crappies as it was this spring.

Of course the biggest angling news at patoka is its booming walleye fishery. “We’ve seen folks catching a large number of fish in the 24-26-inch range”, says Dukes, “with several fish between 25 and 28-inches also being caught that are tipping the scales at up to 8pounds”. Sounds like the place to be if you are looking for heavy walleyes in Indiana.

And September/October is certainly the best time of year to target these trophy fish as they look to fatten up

Page 9

for the winter.

Unique Area Attractions As if this beautiful piece of water and its first class outdoor recreation weren’t enough, a number of exiting attractions lie just minutes from Patoka’s shores. The French Lick Hotel and Casino, and the historic West Baden Springs Hotel lie just to the north in historic French Lick. Exciting caves including Wyandotte Caves, Bluespring Caverns and Marengo Caves are also nearby and beg exploration.

And the Holiday World Amusement Park -- another national attraction - is only a short drive south of the lake.

Late summer and early fall is a great time to visit Patoka Lake, and a houseboat getaway from Hoosier Hills Marina is the best way to experience this Indiana outdoor jewel -- a recreational dream with great fishing and great wildlife viewing, without the crowds. This largely undiscovered region of the state has so much to offer. Give Jeff and Shellie a call today at 866678-3313, check out their website at www.hoosierhillsmarina.com, or e-mail them at hoosierhills@netsurfusa.net.

A recent two-person limit of walleyes brought into Hoosier Hills Marina.

Page 10

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2012©

CURVES IN CAMO Hunting, fishing and all things outdoors for women by women.

Kiss the Fish and Make Them Cry D.L.SMITH Curves in Camo The Great Lakes beckon this time of year. The pull of open waters promises the king of fresh water fish, the salmon.

Traveling for my first time to New York, Niagara USA steered our group into the capable hands of Captain James Gordon of Captain Jim's Charters.

As we headed out of Olcott the weather looked ideal for fishing.

We had a light chop and slightly overcast skies. Ready to get our bite on, Nort Johnson of the Black Hills, Badlands, and Lakes Association and my cameraman, Mark Smith of Angling the Great Lakes TV were my fishing team.

Water temperature is important to the bite on Ontario and running through 100 foot of water the fish seemed to congregate at about 60 feet. Captain Jim set the downriggers, trolling with his secret weapon spoons in a north south pattern.

Fishing in New York is different than fishing other places. If a

My First Wild Boar Hunt STACYYOUNG Curves in Camo I’ll be honest. A wild boar was never in my top five animals to hunt. Had it not been for a couple great friends at the Buck and Boar in South Carolina, I would never have given this hunt a chance.

I took a week off work and made the twelve hour drive to South Carolina. I knew nothing about boars except that they are nasty looking and very mean.

All that was going through my head on the trip was that these pigs were going to be too easy to kill because they are slow and fat.

When I got to the lodge, I was amazed to see how beautiful it was. I didn't want to leave. I went to bed early so I would be well rested for the next morning when Scott and Ronnie would come to take me out.

They arrived around seven

captain is not on the bite, they call other captains to try to get to where it is. While they are in competition for clients they realize that it's good for everyone to have happy clients that will come back to New York.

Our first bite came quickly.

Taking the large tackle in hand I began playing the fish. Keeping the line tight the fish made a run. I pulled back and reeled. The big fish broke, jumping out of the blue waters of Lake Ontario. I had a king on.

I muscled the rod back and felt the king respond to my insistence.

He would tire before I would; I would make sure of that. I reeled the line taking up slack. Muscling the rod back again, the king began to tire. Finally at the back of the boat, I held my breath as Captain Jim netted my fish. Nothing is for sure when you're fishing salmon, having one on the line and landing it can be two very different things.

I had landed my first Lake Ontario King. It was a beautiful deep silver color, and put up a heck of a fight. It was time for Nort to hook up. We didn't have to wait long. He worked the fish to the back of the boat as it jumped and crested putting on a show. The fish was netted and it was a rarity, a wild Atlantic salmon.

Lake Ontario was once the largest freshwater habitat of the Atlantic salmon. While they are now making a comeback, pollution and habitat loss had all but destroyed the wild population in

these waters. Captain Jim said during his long career guiding on the lake he has only boated ten Atlantic salmon. Silver, with deep green tones, reminiscent of the Atlantic depths it originated in, Nort had a trophy.

Our day of fishing was far from over. We continued trolling, and there were other species of salmon to catch. Ontario promised to keep us guessing with every hookup.

One of the rods off the back of the boat dipped low in response to a heavy fish finding the spoon irresistible. It was another good fighter. I reeled and played the big fish through the cold blue waters. As I worked, avoiding the other lines at the back of the boat, I was reminded of my childhood fishing in Michigan. Pulling fish nearly as large as myself from the cold waters and then enjoying the fish from a friend's homemade smoker still makes my mouth water 30 years later. I know most people talk about the fight and the act of landing the fish. I think about how it will taste.

Captain Jim netted my big King. I was so thrilled with the haul I had to kiss the fish. Nothing like a little bit of salmon flavored lip-gloss to keep inspired to catch more.

Another rod on the back of the boat bent over. Nort hooked into a big King. It crested, jumped and rolled. Diving deep the salmon tried to create slack in the line and spit the hook tethering it to the rod.

Again it crested the water jumping

into the graying sky. Nort kept his tension steady reeling the big fish closer to the boat. The wily salmon jumped then rolled in quick progression.

The combination allowed the hook to lose its purchase. The large fish dove back to the depths of Lake Ontario to fight another day. Kings are great fighters, one inevitably spits the hook on every trip I have taken, that's what makes it exciting to fish them. There are no sure things no matter the fishing skills on board.

The skies began to darken to the west.

Captain Jim kept one eye on the horizon and the other on the lines in the water as we continued trolling.

Another line played out. It was my turn to reel again.

It felt like a much lighter fish, but the action was still lively.

The smaller fish dove and rolled like his l a r g e r brethren.

I had him gliding on top of

so we could be in the woods by eight. They started teaching me a little about hogs; how they are in the daylight and how they are at night. What they told me was a lot different than I had thought.

I always thought a boar would charge as soon as it saw you at any time day or night. This is not the case at all. During the day, if a hog charges, most of the time it's because you're between a sow and her babies. Most of the time they run away. Now, at night, it's a different story! They are not afraid of anything at night. They will try to eat you! I got to see how true this was when we walked through the woods during the day. The hogs would smell us and take off running in the opposite direction.

I did all the scent free soap, shampoo, and detergent, but none of that mattered. Those pigs could smell better than any other animal I had ever been around. At one point we were 70 yards away from a napping pig and we could see its nostrils flare from smelling us before it took off. Those darn hogs are FAST! One minute you would see them; the next all you saw was dust.

We tried to play the wind but in the mountains, all it did was swirl. This happened about twenty times the first day, and I started to realize how hard these things were to hunt. That's when I started to take this game a little more seriously. I am not going to be outsmarted by any freaking pig, I told myself!

Scott, my guide, took me around all day long and we came up to many different herds of hogs, but they would either hear us, see us, or -most of the time -- smell us.

I had brought my recurve bow because I thought it would be easy to shoot a big hog the first day and I could spend the rest of the week trying to shoot one with my bow.

Boy was I wrong again! I spotted and stalked for two full days trying to get the perfect opportunity to kill a hog. Don't get me wrong, there were many hogs to shoot, I just kept screwing up the chances I was given.

During my last day, Scott and I walked up on a couple big hogs that were coming our way. We just happened to have the mountain winds blowing in our favor at the moment, so the hogs could not get wind of us. Scott said, “Don't move and they won't be able to see us. Get your gun ready and shoot the one in front, it's the bigger hog.”

My heart started pounding as soon as I put my scope on the pig's face. I squeezed the trigger and nothing happened. “What?” Scott said in a whisper. “You forgot to cock the gun.” Well crap! I had hunted these pigs for three days now and finally got a chance to get one and all of my common sense went out the window. So, I cocked the gun and didn't have a shot at the hog in the front, but I could still get the one in the back. By the time I shouldered the gun these hogs were only about 15 yards in front of us.

Again, I squeezed the trigger and nothing happened. They heard something and took off. There I stood, confused again, like always.

Scott looked at me and reluctantly said, “The safety is still on.”

So of course, what does a girl do? I let a couple tears fall out of my eyeballs. Scott stood there and

told me we still had all day to regroup.

I was so bummed. I thought I had just ruined the one, actually two chances I had at killing a hog. We walked for about 45 more minutes then came up on four hogs sleeping.

Scott said, “stop right here, don't move.” About that time a pig stood up at 40 yards. Hogs can't see very well so if we didn't move they might not know what we were.

I stood so still I didn't even want to breathe. It stood there staring at us for what felt like half a day, then it started walking across in front of us. That gave me a chance to get the gun up and cocked with the safety off. I wasn't screwing this one up.

The hog turned broadside and I squeezed the trigger. BOOM! Next thing I know, we have about 150 hogs running right at us!

I started yelling at Scott, ”Get your gun, get your gun, get your gun!” The closer they got to us they started to split and ran on the left and right sides of us. That was a heck of a rush! After the dust cleared I looked at Scott and said, “Did I get it?” He said he saw the dust fly off his body so he knew I got it. When he said

2012 Special Summer Edition the water in short order right to Captain Jim's net. I landed a Coho.

Captain Jim said we had time for one more pass. Soon Nort was hooked up again. It was a lighter fish than the last few hook ups.

Reeling to the back of the boat a jack, or immature king salmon, crested the water. Nort released the young fish so someone else could have the opportunity to catch him when he matures.

The dark clouds had descended onto our fishing grounds. The impending front turned off the bite and it was time to head back to port and call it a day.

Lake Ontario produced strong fighting fish and a couple of surprises. I was captivated fishing the clear cold waters, sharing the opportunity with others who appreciate the bounties offered in the wilds whether it is the deep waters of Lake Ontario or the majestic badlands.

Mark Smith Photo.

that, I hit the ground and started bawling!

We walked up to the hog and I hugged Scott and jumped up and down. I just could not believe that I actually got one.

It took me a total of 26 hours of stalking to get my 248pound European hog. This hunt turned out to be one of the best of my life. I would recommend everyone go on a hog hunt even if you don't think it sounds like fun. Trust me, it is a blast! Of course, it certainly helps going to a place like the Buck and Boar Outfitters in South Carolina.

Ronnie and Scott will do everything in their power to get you a hog and make it a great experience.

2012 Special Summer Edition

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2012© smallmouth into the drift boat with a huge grin on my face.

Casting fears resolved

Fly Fishing Offers a New Challenge

KRISTENMONROE Curves in Camo Have you ever experienced something in your life and wondered why you waited so long to try it? Maybe it was fear of the unknown. Perhaps no one you knew did it.

Before I tried fly-fishing I had the preconceived notion that you need a stream full of trout, casting was impossible, and a ton of cash to get started (elitist attitude included). Back in March, however, I saw legendary fly-fisherman Lefty Kreh's seminar at the Woodstock Great Outdoors Expo and my attitudes began to change.

I am blessed to have many friends in the outdoors industry, so I started asking around for some guidance. Josh Lantz, fellow outdoor communicator and professional fishing guide, offered to teach me the sport. He quickly put my misconceptions to bed by teaching the basics of a cast.

Before long I was fighting a

Before I took the first cast, my nerves got the best of me. I was certain I would fail miserably. The lesson began by practicing moving the fly rod back-and-forth without a fly attached. Josh wanted me to get the feel of “loading the rod”, or being able see the rod bend slightly at the tip and feel the tug from the weight of the line on each forward and back cast. It is imperative not to use the rod like a whip. To maximize your cast, be sure to keep your wrist firm while starting and stopping the rod abruptly between the forward and back casts.

“People think they need to really whip the line and tend to overwork the fly rod,” said Lantz. “Today's fly rods will do all the work for you once you learn to feel and harness their power,” he continued.

Overworking the rod decreases the distance of the cast and quickly becomes tiresome to the fly caster.

A tailing loop will also cause knots in the leader when the rod is being used like a whip.

Fishing from the drift boat on an eight-mile stretch allowed us to get close to the bank which helped build my casting confidence.

While taking the first cast I spoke out loud talking though all the key points Lantz taught me. I really had to think about my every move since I normally fish with traditional spinning gear. It only took a few minutes before my timing and motion created a decent cast, and we moved on to the retrieve of the line and fly.

“Keep the rod tip low and pointed straight down towards the water,” said Lantz. Stripping the line was easy to learn. It's basically getting into a rhythm of short

strips with pauses in between doing what is necessary to make the fly appear like live prey. The slow, short cadence worked best to catch smallmouth that day, but the rhythm may change based on the fish's mood.

Sneaky smallmouths-a-plenty I continued to cast towards the bank, working the line and my crayfish pattern fly back to the boat. My confidence slowly began to build. Then it happened. A sneaky smallmouth grabbed the olive colored fly. Setting the hook was different as well. It was merely a matter of giving it a second then lifting the rod. Since the smallies often creep from behind and eat tail first, it can be surprisingly tricky to notice the bite. It's important to watch the end of the colored fly line where it meets the leader. According to Lantz, this is your “bobber” when fly fishing for smallies. Watch to see if the end of the fly line does anything unusual during the retrieve. If you don't, you're going to miss a lot of fish.

Even though my first fish on the fly was not a record smallmouth, I felt proud to put it in the boat. I think my teacher was a tad proud as well.

The good news about fly fishing is you don't have live near the stream featured in A River Runs Through It. Here in the Midwest, we have limited trout streams but smallmouth bass are very accessible and anyone can find them.

“They swim in nearly every river in our region, fight incredibly hard and are really fun to catch,” said Lantz. “They really are built for fly fishing”, he continued.

Affordable gear The more I learned about fly fishing, the more intrigued I

became.

Many more questions came to mind, especially about the gear. Fly-fishing gear is all about numbers and there are endless options for flies. Lantz tied some of the flies we used the night before, and his favorite for our location was the olive colored crayfish fly. We also used some white and chartreuse Clouser minnows.

The 9-foot, 5-weight fly rod I was using was a perfect size for smallmouth, with a matching 5-weight floating fly line and an eight-foot monofilament leader tapered down to 8-pound test tippet. If you are serious about getting into the sport, Lantz recommends purchasing two outfits -- a 5-weight and an 8weight - for fly fishing in our area.

The 5-weight would work well for smallmouth, trout and panfish, while the 8-weight would have you covered for largemouth, steelhead, pike and salmon.

Despite the “elitist” stereotype, the fly fishing industry has changed a lot in the past ten years with manufacturers finally producing affordable equipment.

Expect to pay $150 to $280 for a decent prematched combo, which includes fly rod, reel, line and leader. You could invest in a pair of waters, or even a drift boat but it's not necessary.

Anyone could simply throw on a pair of old tennis shoes, shorts and hit the local waters.

When gear is reasonably priced, more

Page 11 people are willing and able to try it out.

Thanks to Josh for sharing his knowledge and expertise. I am now definitely ready to get my own fly gear. I do have a birthday coming up this month, and I look forward meeting more down-to-earth fly-fishing friends.

If you go...

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LifeProof presents its next generation case for the Apple iPhone 4/4S. It is waterproof, dustproof, snowproof and shockproof and is the only such iPhone case on the market that form fits and lets users take advantage of every innovative feature of the phone.

LifeProof is more than just an accessory. It is a technical piece of equipment to both protect and enable users to stay connected while capturing the outdoor experience taking pictures or shooting video, even underwater, listening to music while enjoying a sport or outdoor activity or simply everyday use.

The LifeProof case offers the following protection and enhancement features and benefits for full use whether in a boat or kayak, on the trail or crossing a field, in the mountains, riding on pavement or on any other outdoor adventure…all contained in a slim profile, sleek case that easily slips in and out of pockets.

Unlike other cases, LifeProof's open screen face allows unrestricted use of all features. An ultra-flat screen protector makes operating and interacting with the iPhone 4/4S highly responsive without the need of a separate screen protector. CrystalClear double anti-reflective coated camera-grade glass lens delivers the sharpest eight megapixel images possible, with perfect camera flash operation.

• HD videos can be taken everywhere - underwater, in dirt, on snow with full shock and impact protection even on pavement.

• Underwater protection up to 2M/6.6' depth. (Optional adapter even allows for use of waterproof headphones.)

• The case is tested to military specifications for shock and impact resistance.

• Patent-pending Sound Enhancement System (SES) improves the bass and mid-frequency speaker response by utilizing the back of the case as a sub-woofer for a richer, fuller sound.

• Optimum performance and reception of the iPhone 4/4S dual antenna design is ensured.

1-2-3 Aerosol Value Pack From Birchwood-Casey: Gun Cleaning Easy as 1-2-3!

Completely cleaning your firearm is as easy as 1-2-3 with Birchwood Casey’s 1-2-3 Aerosol Value Pack. This simple three step process cleans and protects firearms for more shooting adventures. Included in the 1-2-3 Aerosol Value Pack is Bore Scrubber, Gun Scrubber and Barricade.

Step 1: Bore Scrubber. Clean out lead and copper fouling, powder residue and plastic wad residue with Bore Scrubber. This solution dissolves all residue from shots fired to clean out the barrel of any gun.

Step 2: Gun Scrubber. Completely clean all the components of the firearm with Gun

Scrubber. This solution removes dirt and powder residue for a more reliable performing firearm.

Step 3: Barricade. Protect all metal parts from rust with Barricade. Barricade is also used for removing light surface rust.

To watch the complete process of cleaning a firearm with the Birchwood Casey 1-23 Aerosol Value Pack, click on the video.

Log onto the Birchwood Casey website at www.birchwoodcasey.com, write to 7900 Fuller Road, Eden Prairie, MN 55344-2195 or call 800.328.6156 x7933 for more information.

Some key accessories are available to further enhance the outdoor experience of the LifeProof case. They include the Adapter Compatible with GoProÆ mounts, Belt Clip, Bike and Bar Mount and an Armband/Swimband.

LifeProof cases are available for sale at $79.99 on the company's website at www.lifeproof.com and Best Buy, AT&T and RadioShack retail outlets across the U.S.

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INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2012©

2012 Special Summer Edition

THIS MONTH’S WINNER! 5

4

6

Clockwise from below. . .

1) Jack Gill took this gobbler on opening day of Indiana’s youth season. The turkey weighed 18-lbs., had a 4" beard and 1/2" spurs. 2) Arthur Collier from Orleans, IN caught some nice crappies on Patoka Lake with J & R Guide Service . The fish were caught in timbered coves on the main lake on 1/8 oz. Southern Pro Jigs and Hot Grubs. 3) David Kessen and his kids had a great time fishing recently on Lake Wawasee. 4) Kolton Graves, age 11, of Star City, IN shot this nice bird during the youth season in Pulaski County. The tom weighed 21 pounds. 5) 16 year-old Justin Fox of Hebron, IN with his first deer! 6) Bobby Nevitt, Laura Nevitt and Bob Nevitt Sr. had a memorable opening day this past spring, scoring these three super Indiana Gobblers!

3 2

1

This months answers From Puzzle on Page 5

Gone Afield monthly photo contest. . .

It’s EASY! It’s FUN! Fill out this form and send it in with your favorite outdoor photograph.

A winner will be randomly selected each month to win a great outdoor prize!

Entry Information: Person submitting the photo: Name(s) of person(s) pictured: Other information describing the photo: If I’m selected as this month’s random winner, please send my prize to:

Send your photos to:

H

A

Gone Afield P.O. Box 40 Knox, IN 46534 E-mail submissions welcome at: www.contact@ION4U.net.

If mailing photos, please include a SASE if you’d like us to return them to you CONTEST RULES: Raghorn, Inc. shall retain the right to publish or not publish any images submitted in any of it’s media outlets. Winners chosen at random. Prizes are subject to change and contest may cease without notice.

2012 Special Summer Edition

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2012©

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INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2012©

2012 Special Summer Edition

Trigger Control: Simple but not Easy

The Straight Shooter BRENTWHEAT Believe it or not, the technique for shooting a rifle or pistol accurately is very simple: you merely obtain proper sight alignment, properly squeeze the trigger and then follow through on both things.

Regardless if the weapon is pappy’s old horse pistol or a tricked-out .50 BMG sniper rifle, these rules are proven and inviolable.

However, as combat shooting guru Ray Chapman is alleged to have said, “Shooting is simple. It just ain’t easy.” In other words, the concepts are basic but the application of those concepts can be difficult. That’s why very few people leave the shooting range with a single ragged hole in the target.

The goal of marksmanship is accuracy. A missed shot is utterly worthless and can even be dangerous to your self-esteem, wallet, freedom or life. Though the definition of accuracy is somewhat subjective depending on the weapon, distance and shooter, the end result can always be improved through

attention to the basic fundamentals of shooting.

While sight alignment and follow-through are worthy topics that will likely be covered sometime in the future, this month we are going to focus on trigger pull as it is arguably the single most important part of the whole shooting process.

“But why?” you ask. “It’s pretty simple; you pull the trigger and the gun goes ‘BANG!’ End of story, right?”

Nope. Though it might seem improbable, it has been proven that your actions on the trigger have significant effect upon the flight of the bullet. This is because when you slap or slam the trigger, you are actually setting the gun into motion before the bullet leaves the barrel.

For example, suppose you violently jerk the trigger. This causes the gun to move in an imperceptible, ever-so-slight downward arc and by the time the bullet reaches one hundred yards downrange, it is gouging some nice furrows in front of the target. Anybody want to plant tomatoes?

Most of the time things aren’t quite so dramatic but concept is the same. As you will seldom fire the gun in exactly the same manner every time, your shots end up all over the place.

The perfect trigger pull is one that allows the gun to remain motionless throughout the firing cycle. In order to develop this type of perfection, you must develop the

ability to steadily squeeze the trigger without starting, stopping, jerking, mashing, yanking, slamming, jamming or otherwise varying in the effort.

On some firearms the trigger break will come as a surprise, much like a glass rod cracking. On others, it will feel like you are pushing a concrete block up a long sandy ramp. Regardless, you must strive to pull the trigger with a steady, unwavering motion. Anything else simply won’t work.

With some practice you will be able to almost tell the exact instant the hammer will fall on your particular weapon. Avoid the temptation, as “Staging the trigger” and anticipating the shot are common contributors to poor accuracy.

Don’t worry about exactly when the gun will fire, just start and keep squeezing the trigger properly until it happens.

If you are having trouble with this, think of single overripe grape placed between your finger and the trigger. Your goal is to fire the gun without making grape juice.

Finger placement on the trigger is important. With most rifles and single-action pistols, placing the pad of your finger on the trigger is all that is necessary. Putting any more of your digit onto the trigger will likely cause the weapon to move in some unintended direction as you fire it. You also want to place your finger so that it engages the trigger at precisely a 90-degree

angle to the bore of the gun. This is especially critical in long-distance rifle shooting.

When shooting a doubleaction weapon such as a revolver, you’ll need to place the first joint of your finger on the trigger to have enough strength to pull the heavier trigger. It’s more challenging to maintain proper trigger squeeze but is possible.

Another common problem is allowing your finger to fly off the trigger after the shot. This will cause difficulties with the followup shots because your finger gets a running start from somewhere out in left field, then slaps the trigger and you’ve missed again. Instead, just allow the trigger to go far enough forward to reset the action and no further.

Dry-firing practice is an excellent way to hone your trigger control. After making triple-sure your gun is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction, practice pulling the trigger on the empty chamber. If the gun moves at all, start over. An old trick is to balance a dime on the barrel and see if you can pull the trigger without disturbing the coin.

One caution: NEVER attempt to lighten or otherwise “clean up” a trigger yourself. Though some skilled gunsmiths can perform an action job to make the trigger crisper, allowing a buddy to lighten-up the trigger pull or, God forbid, taking a file to the action yourself can result in a smoother trigger.

It can also end up in tragedy when the gun fires at an unintended moment. Just don’t mess around with trigger assemblies!

Though it might seem like a small thing, trigger pull is the keystone to the entire shooting process.

If you can master this simple but not easy task, you will be light years ahead of many shooters.

The perfect trigger pull is one that allows the gun to remain motionless throughout the firing cycle.

Creature Feature: a surprising grasshopper

Hands On Nature: Grasshopper Olympics Here is a math activity to learn more about grasshoppers amazing ability to jump. You need a flat grassy area, a tape measure and some slender sticks to use as markers.

Place a stick on the grass for your starting point. Standing on two feet, see how far you can jump forward. Mark your landing place with another stick and measure the distance you jumped. Repeat this 2 more times. Did you go farther the second or third time?

Add the three distances for each of the jumps and divide by 3. The number you get is your average “standing long jump” distance. The standing long jump was an Olympic event until 1912.

Do you think a grasshopper can jump as far as you? Maybe not in actual distance, but in relation to their size grasshoppers are super jumpers. Some can jump 20 times their own body length.

To figure out how far you would have to jump to be as good as a grasshopper, measure your height in inches. Multiple that number by 20, then divide by 12. That will give you the number of feet you would have to jump to be as “athletic” as a grasshopper. By the way, the world record for the standing long jump (by a human) is 11.4 feet.

Grasshoppers are good at what they do: eating plants and hopping, but some can also fly. The Carolina grasshopper is one of our largest grasshoppers. The females are nearly two inches long. Their drab tan and brown colors makes then perfectly camouflaged for dusty fields and dry grass. This disguise keeps them safe from predators such as snakes and kestrels who would love to eat such a fat morsel!

However, when danger is near and blending into the background is not enough, the Carolina grasshopper springs into action. It leaps into the air and flares out its usually folded wings. It makes a crackling noise as it seemingly explodes out of the earth. Its outspread wings are black with a yellow band. This color contrast adds to the startling effect. During this display they are often confused with a butterfly. When the Carolina lands it seems to disappear back into the soil.

After grasshopper eggs hatch, the young molt several times as they grow, shedding their exoskeleton for a new one. Young Carolinas do not have wings until their final molt, usually by mid-summer.

Besides using flight to alarm predators, the males use their showy wings to attract females. They fly straight up three or four feet and hover for several seconds before fluttering back to the ground, repeating this dance until a female grasshopper hops over!

Did you know?

When ground temperatures soar, Carolina grasshoppers crawl up on a blade of grass and face the sun. This reduces the amount of their body's surface exposed to the rays of the sun and helps to keep them cool.

Nature’s Almanac

JULY

Bright orange Butterfly Weed, also known as Orange Milkweed is flowering now.

This cheery native plant attracts butterflies because the flat-topped flower clusters are easy for a butterfly to probe with its proboscis.

Red elderberries are ripe now.

Wood frog tadpoles have absorbed their tails and are little froglets now.

Where have the orioles gone?

By July, Baltimore orioles stop visiting backyard nectar feeders and orange slices, and instead forage high in the treetops for protein-rich insects.

2012 Special Summer Edition

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2012©

Page 15

Fishing for Trolls

The Last Thought MIKESCHOONVELD Captain John pulled the throttle back to neutral and allowed the boat to drift close to the bridge abutment. I wasn't really surprised.

A half hour earlier I'd crossed the Alabama Point bridge that spanned the inlet which connected the open Gulf to the south from the protected harbors between Orange Beach and the mainland. When I saw the bridge and noticed how close it was to the marina where we were to meet our guide, I thought to myself, "I bet we stop under the bridge to fish for some trolls."

That's a thought from an old memory dating back a couple of decades to when I'd take my kids fishing. One of their favorite fairy tales was the one about the Billy Goats Gruff; and if you remember the story, there were trolls living under the bridge across which the goats had to travel. Since then, I always think of trolls living under the bridges I cross.

I also think of the trolls when-

ever I fish under a bridge and I fish under bridges a lot. I learned long ago that in addition to bridges being prime territory for trolls, they make great fish habitat, as well and for some of the same reasons.

Bridges are often positioned strategically in a narrow place so the structure doesn't have to be any longer than needed. That means any water coming under the bridge tends to accelerate as it forces through the narrows. The accentuated current attracts fish. If you are fishing under a bridge that has a distinct current, concentrate on the down-current side. The fish will position themselves there, waiting for food to come flowing by.

The current often scours the bottom of the lake or stream deeper under or near bridges. Boating channels that run under bridges are often kept dredged. Whether natural or man-made, those deep spots attract fish. Lower a likely bait into the depths and soon you'll find out what lurks below.

There's also shade under the bridge. If there's much current, the shade won't work to cool the water temperature much, but bridges across slack-water lakes can provide enough shade to temper the water a few degrees. In the summer, a few degrees of coolness can be a powerful fish attractant.

Whether or not the water is cooler from the shade, the shade itself is important since many fish instinctively seek out shady areas.

From a bait fish's point of view, the darker the water, the better the chance of not being eaten. From a predator fish's point of view, a shaded area can offer better concealment and an improved chance for an unsuspecting minnow to swim into striking distance.

Then there are bridge abutments. Not all bridges have them, but those that have pilings or abutments extending down into the water for support along their length offer additional attraction to fish. The abutments provide the foundation for both the bridge and the food chain under the bridge.

Algae and water bugs at the bottom of the food pyramid take root on the concrete or steel structure under bridges. That life attracts fish and other organisms that feed on algae and bugs. Predators come to eat the algae and bug eaters and fishermen come to catch the predators.

I’ve fished under bridges from the Florida Keys to Alaska. They are fish magnets wherever you find

them.

John handed me a light spinning rod with a simple, hook, line and sinker rig attached. I impaled a live shrimp on the hook and flipped it close to the piling, letting the bait sink down to the bottom. The others in the group sent rigs of their own into the water and soon we were each fast to some of the trolls living under that bridge.

Regardless of where bridges occur, consider them prime fishing areas Photo by author..

Jamoca Almond Fudge -- Continued from Page 2 Ontario and Lake Erie remains great throughout the summer, the best fishing months on the Lower Niagara River are September through May, with giant, Lake Ontario king salmon taking center stage September and October and steelhead, brown trout and lake trout providing unbelievable action from November through May. I’ve been blessed to fish throughout much of North America, and I simply haven’t found a more exciting and rewarding fishery than the one in and around Niagara County, NY. The guides are refreshing too. Of course they are knowledgeable, but they are friendly too -- even enterFor more information on taining at times -- and all seem to accommodations, fishing charwork together for the good of the ters and other attractions in the industry. They want every visiting Niagara Falls region, visit anglers to catch fish and have a www.niagara-usa.com.

For good time. They become extremefirst-class accommodations on ly apologetic if they don’t put at least a dozen trout in the Frabill the historic Lewiston waterduring an afternoon of fishing. It’s front, check out the Barton Hill hilarious. A dozen steelhead is a Hotel and Spa at www.bartonslow afternoon for them. hillhotel.com. Contact Captain I tell folks that the fishing Frank Campbell or Captain Jeff around Niagara Falls is like BaskinDraper through their websites Robbins. There’s an astounding at www.niagaracharter.com or variety to sample, and everyone www.niagaraguides.com. likes it once they get there. Yeah, it’s really that good.

The run through Devil’s Hole on the lower Niagara River is a wild ride.

Dan Stefanich/danstefoutdoors.com photo.

Okay, maybe they weren't trolls, but the bluefish, redfish, sheepheads, catfish and rays we caught under that Orange Beach bridge were better than any fairy tale.

To hook up with some trolls of your own contact www. sanroccay.com. To plan a trip to thye Orange Beach area, contact www. gulfshores.com

Bear Lake Bluegills...

Hidden Fall Delicacy...

Indiana’s mushroom hunting season ended a few months ago, you say?

Wrong. Cooler temperatures are right around the corner and edible (by most people) mushrooms like the shaggy mane and the shaggy parasol (above) provide mushroom aficionados with new sport and new table fare.

Photo by Wallace Pritz.

Bear Lake, near Albion in Noble County, has long been a favorite lake among northeast Indiana bluegill anglers, and a fish survey conducted there last summer by DNR biologists confirmed why.

Among all fish caught in last summer’s Bear Lake survey, bluegills ranked first in number and overall weight. Largemouth bass ranked second in number and overall weight. Sport fish made up 93 percent of the total catch and 78 percent of the total weight.

Based on the survey catch, 84 percent of the bluegills in Bear Lake were 7-inch and larger, a size anglers generally consider big enough to eat.

A DNR public fishing site with a boat ramp is located on the lake’s east side.

Crappie USA -- Continued from Cover deep in 4 feet of water using orange/chartreuse Jiffy Jigs tipped with shiners to catch 75-80 fish for the day.

Amateur Division Results First place in the amateur division was the St. Louis, MO team of Daniel and Steve Gentz weighing in 7.38 pounds and earning $600.00. Daniel and Steve were slow trolling jigs and minnows in 10 feet of water with their fish suspended just 1-1/2 feet deep. The team used Stubby Steve's bait on each of their jigs.

Second place went to the 3person team of Stephen Moss of Warren, IN and Melvin Shuler of Elwood, IN and Jayden Brewer of Alexandria, IN with a weight of

6.82 pounds and earning $400. The team like all others were fishing Salamonie 10-12 feet deep using a double rig with clip on floats fishing at 3-4 feet deep in standing timber.

Taking third place was Michael Bledsoe of Noblesville, Indiana and Bret Cunningham of Seymour, Indiana with a weight of 6.76 pounds and earning $200.

Michael and Bret were spider rigging double minnow rigs and jigs in 10 feet of water with their fish suspended in 3-4 feet of water and holding tight to wood.

Big Fish Award Taking big fish of the event was the team of Don Licht of Indianapolis and Doug Sikoora of

Noblesville with a 1.55-lb. crappie which earned then an additional $245.

Congratulations to all the teams fishing this event. For a complete list of tournament standings and downloadable photos for this event visit www.crappieusa.com then go to Tournament Results.

“A special thanks goes out to the Wabash County CVB and Ryan and Fletcher at Bozarth Country Store for all their help with the tournament and for hosting the Friday night seminar", said Tournament Director Larry Stephens. For more information on the area call: (800) 563-1169 or visit their website at: www.wabashcountycvb.com.