June '11 ION

INDIANA'S CHOICE FOR OUTDOOR NEWS AND INFORMATION • SINCE 1994

®

Vol. 2011 • Number 6 Like ION in print? Like us on

W W W. I N D I A N A O U T D O O R N E W S . N E T

June, 2011

DNR TO MONITOR BASS TOURNAMENTS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

FISH WITH CONFIDENCE PAGE 3

SHOOTING PAGES 6 & 18

WALLEYE DESTINATIONS PAGES 9 & 14

GONE AFIELD PAGE 16

KIDS OUTDOORS PAGE 17

INDIANAPOLIS -DNR biologists will monitor eight bass fishing tournaments at seven northern Indiana natural lakes this summer to examine the long-term effects of current fish­ ing rules on bass tournaments.

Biologists will be on hand to count and measure bass brought to weigh-ins by tournament partici­ pants at Winona Lake in Kosciusko County, Lake George and Hamilton Lake in Steuben County, Pine/Stone Lakes in LaPorte County, and Lake Maxinkuckee in Marshall County.

Two tournaments at Lake Wawasee in Kosciusko County will also be monitored.

The DNR conducted a similar survey in 2001, one year after imposition of a 14-inch minimum size limit on bass.

“We can learn a lot about bass populations in Indiana lakes by monitoring tournaments,” said Jed Pearson, DNR biologist.

“They provide data on bass num­ bers, bass sizes, and angler catch rates.”

Ten years ago, the number of participants in monitored tourna­ ments averaged one angler per 57 acres of water. Tournament anglers fished an average of 300 hours per event. At that time, the number of bass brought to weigh-ins ranged from four bass to 192.

The average number of bass brought to weigh-ins 10 years ago

In response to complaints from property owners and non-tournament anglers several years ago, tournament organizers throughout Indiana have improved efforts to coordinate their schedules, improved weigh-in procedures to reduce stress on the fish, and emphasized the importance of good boating and fishing ethics by tournament participants. was 50. Of 762 bass examined by DNR biologists, 95 percent were 14 to 18 inches long and 5 percent were 18 inches or larger.

Despite the high number of bass handled by tournament anglers, only 11 bass were either dead or showed signs of stress and were not released after the weighins.

“It’s going to be interesting to see if tournament fishing has changed over the years,” Pearson said.

Heat up the skillet. . .

said Seth Hartwick after he and sister Kaley hooked these two nice crappies in their uncle’s Dubois County farm pond. Indiana’s Free Fishing Weekend is June 4 and 5. You won’t need a fishing license on these days, so grab some kids and hit the water! Photo provided.

SURVEY REVEALS ENORMOUS ROI TO OUTDOOR INDUSTRY FERNANDINA BEACH, FL -­ Hunting and Fishing Excise An analysis conducted by Taxes” were determined by com­ Southwick Associates and Andrew paring the amount of excise taxes Loftus Consulting for the collected annually to the amount Association of of purchases Fish and made annually Wi l d l i f e by sportsmen Agencies found during the that federal respective excise taxes timeframes. By collected on the law, the excise sale of hunting taxes only can and shooting be used to equipment rep­ Gear and ammunition-intensive maintain fish resented an and wildlife a p p r o x i m a t e activities like waterfowl hunting pay p o p u l a t i o n s , 1,100 percent huge dividends to wildlife conserva- provide public annual return tion. Josh Lantz photo. access and sup­ on investment port programs (ROI) to manufacturers between that directly benefit hunters, 1970 to 2006. Similarly, taxes shooting sports enthusiasts and collected on sport fishing equip­ anglers. ment generated a striking annual On average, the hunting- and ROI of 2,157 percent between shooting sports-related industry 1955 and 2006. paid $251 million in excise taxes, The ROIs in the new report but made $3.1 billion in revenue “The Benefits to Business from through sportsmen purchases each

year from 1970 to 2006. From 1955 to 2006, the sport fishing industry on average contributed $ 110 million in annual tax pay­ ments/import duties, but generat­ ed $2.3 billion in annual taxable equipment sales.

“How many tax models in our country today can show an $11 to $21 return to the company on every dollar spent?” said

COMPLIMENTS OF:

Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus Co-Chair U.S. Congressman Jeff Miller, R-Fla. “This is one of the most impres­ sive examples of how an American industry can profit and bolster the economy while restoring and improving our nation’s cherished natural resources.”

Continued on Pg. 5

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INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ®

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June, 2011 Edition

June, 2011 Edition

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ®

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Page 3

Confidence Makes a Difference

JOSHLANTZ Confidence separates great anglers from the rest. From bait selection to the mechanics of every cast and retrieve, the best anglers in the world simply believe they are going to get a strike at any moment. When a fish does bite, they are ready.

I firmly believe this, and strive to stay in position to strike back on a fish at any given moment. This involves making conscious decisions about things like letting your soft plastics or jigs fall on a tight line, maintaining your hands at or below your waist while you reel, and keeping your rodtip low with minimal slack in your line at any time.

Missed strikes are most often due to simple inattention.

The social aspects of fishing are an important part of the sport, but also results in a lot of missed fish. The other culprit is fatigue.

As a fishing guide, I spend a lot of long days on the water with anglers of varying skill levels.

They all start off strong, but most are toast by shortly after lunchtime. “Bob. . . set the hook!”, I say. “Bob, that was a fish. . . Bob, don’t you dare get lazy on me!”

It is my job to help my clients catch fish, and their repeated failure to set the hook is just about always the number one obstacle to putting fish in the net. Even though you may be absolutely sure that your jerk bait is hung up on a weed or your fly has snagged a rock on the bottom of the river, always set the hook.

As I frequently tell my clients, “hooksets are free!” You can’t land them if you don’t hook them.

Staying attentive mentally

and in position physically are the subtle keys to possessing what many call “angler confidence”.

But selecting and using baits that you’ve had success with in the past is equally important.

Why are anglers “more confident” on their home waters? The answer is simple. Experience.

They know the structure, seasonal and daily fish movements,forage base, and which baits or lures produce fish best under different circumstances. In other words, they know the patterns that consistently yield fish. How a particular angler applies this baseline knowledge to other bodies of water makes all the difference. I always recommend starting with what you know.

Every angler has his or her “confidence lures” -- their go-to baits when faced with a new or unfamiliar piece of water. The tournament guys don’t like to talk about them because they don’t want to give away any information that might cost them money down the road. If they do talk, take the information with a grain of salt. I know a lot of tournament bass anglers who compete at all levels of the sport. The lures they openly talk about are made by their sponsors and are not always the same lures they win their tournament with.

I’ll talk.

Truth is, I’ve got a lot of socalled confidence baits when it comes to bass fishing. I’ll bet you do too. I’ll show you three of my favorites here, and try to explain a little about why I like them -- beyond the simple fact that they catch fish.

Bomber B 1 A L o n g A jerkbait in Mother-of-Pearl

Here’s a wildcard right out of the gate. The bait itself may not surprise you, but the finish probably does.

The Bomber Long A is a classic jerkbait that will wobble, dart, suspend and slash. It runs 23 feet deep when fished as a traditional jerkbait and as deep as 6 feet or so when fished with a steady retrieve. Jerkbaits are popular during the prespawn period and again during fall, but excel all season long when fished over shallow weedbeds and along weed edges. Bomber’s Mother-of-Pearl color has always been one of my favorites for trolling-up spring cohos on Lake Michigan, and one day at the insistence of a friend possessing trusted fishing prowess, I finally tried them for bass. While in no way metallic, the Mother-of-Pearl finish puts out a great deal of flash. I most often fish the bait with a steady retrieve, only occasionally stopping the bait for a second or so at a time.

YUM 3.25” Wo o l y B u g

Here’s YUM’s variation of the popular “beaver” style of baits. I use their version because at 3.25” long, it is slightly smaller than other similar products from other manufacturers. I also have a high-degree of confidence in their F2 attractant formu­ lation. I typically use variations of the clearwater-friendly green pumpkin and watermelon seed colors. While the Woolly Bug can be rigged Texas or Carolina style, I most often fish this awesome little bait rigged weedless on a relatively small and lightweight 1/0 offset hook with a single split shot 12-inches or so above the bait. This is a setup that can be fished almost mindlessly in and around almost any cover in shallow to moderate depths. I fish it on a light fluorocarbon leader, but use Berkley Fireline in Crystal Ivory for the main line. Why? Again, because my clients don’t always know

when to set the hook. If a bass picks this bait up, he usually hangs onto it and swims off due to the F2 formulation. I can easily see the Crystal Ivory line moving and let my client know he or she needs to set the hook.

YUM Houdini Shad

This is a super versatile fluke-style soft plastic jerkbait that really gets the job done. As a matter of fact, if I had to choose a single bait to fish around any kind of shallow, summertime cover, the workmanlike YUM Houdini Shad would get the nod. I like the watermelon seed color in clear water and the chartreuse pepper color in stained water. I prefer to fish this bait unweighted with

the paddle tail intact, but a vari­ ety of rigs are possible. The tail is perforated and can be modified three different ways for a different action and rate of fall. I fish mine on a 3/0 offset hook. Again, this bait is completely weedless and almost completely mindless.

There is no wrong way to fish it.

That’s why I like it. It’s a guide’s dream. Every twitch or movement of the rod tip causes this bait to appear in a complete state of panic. And since the Houdini Shad stays near the surface when fished unweighted, there is no question when a bass eats it.

If the weather stays as rotten this summer as it has been this spring, we’ll all have to make the most of our time on the water.

Fish with confidence. Stay in position to strike a fish, and use the baits you trust the most.

I’ll see you on the water.

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INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ®

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June, 2011 Edition

Getting fish to bite isn’t always a matter of bait

LOUIESTOUT South Bend's Jeremy Bunnell and I discovered this in early May while enjoying a rare, warm and dry afternoon on a Michiana lake.

It is a time of year when bass move onto the sandy flats look­ ing for two things - something to eat and potential spawning areas.

When this happens, you can usually catch them easily on tube jigs and shallow crankbaits.

The tube jig was working best that day. I caught a few fish on a tube rigged on a spinning outfit spooled with 6-pound line, but not the numbers of fish I anticipated. So, I scrounged around in my rod locker for anoth­ er spinning rod to rig with a dif­ ferent soft plastic bait.

I spotted a rod spooled with 4-pound line and remembered something TV host Mark Zona once told me about fishing the shallow flats of Michigan's Klinger Lake.

“There are days when the only way you can catch them is with 4-pound line,” Zona said.

“Sounds crazy, but it can make a huge difference.”

I tied a tube onto the smaller line and sailed it onto the flat.

Bam! Instant fish.

That's the way it was for the next 40 minutes.

Meanwhile, Jeremy, who is still learning and has had limited experience with a tube jig, wasn't getting any action. He was work­ ing the same weight and color of lure, and doing so properly, but couldn't buy a bite.

“What size line is that?” I asked.

“8-pound fluorocarbon,” he shrugged.

“Try this,” I said, handing him my 4-pound outfit.

He caught a fish on his first cast. And another. He suddenly was out-fishing me and my 6­ pound line 3 to 1.

“That is amazing - I would have never guessed the line would make that much difference,” he grinned. “Why is that?”

Who knows. We were both using Trilene 100 percent Fluorocarbon, but in different sizes. Fluorocarbon is invisible in the water - more so than monofilament - and the lake water was colored enough that I doubt if the fish were seeing the line.

Perhaps it was the way the smaller line affected the action of the bait. Small line tends to enhance lure action and get you more bites, but on Eagle, I've never seen that be a major issue.

And then I remembered some­ thing else that TV host Hank Parker once told me. He doesn't believe fish can see line, but he does believe the line cutting through the water creates vibra-

tions the fish can detect. Since these bass were just beginning to move up on the flats, it's reason­ able to think they are a little skit­ tish. Perhaps the heavier line was spooking them in that manner.

Whatever the case, the line was the difference.

“I learned something today,” Bunnell said.

So did I. When the fish aren't biting your bait, don't limit your experiments to changing lures or fishing locations. Sometimes, it's a simple matter of trying lighter line.

Dennis Rittenmeyer of Highland caught this nice largemouth while fishing in LaPorte County.

Northern Indiana represented in the 2011 Sport Fishing World Championships in Italy this fall. . .

Bristol anglers Tony Forte and Mike Lightner join assistant coach Val Walters of Mishawaka to rep­ resent the U.S. on the Nations-Coarse/Match team along with four other American anglers.

The U.S. also is sending teams in Black Bass, Fly fishing and Junior Fly Fishing divisions.

Match Fishing is a European style of angling competition that is spreading across the U.S. Competitors are assigned stations along a waterway and utilize a variety of stealth techniques to take any kind of fish with refined livebait tactics and long poles.

The World championship will attract teams from about 40 nations and the anglers will be scattered along a three-mile shoreline of Ostellato Canal near Ferrara, Italy beginning Aug. 28.

Forte and Lightner qualified through high finishes in the U.S. World Qualifier held in Fort Wayne last summer. Walters was appointed by team officials to assist the team in a coaching capacity.

“Mike and I are humbled to represent our country, community and local fishing club on this world stage,” said Tony Forte, founder of the Michiana Bank Anglers.

There will be a learning curve, as the anglers will be fishing for fish called Skimmers, Wels Catfish, Carrassio Eel, bream and carp. The European bream, unlike American bream (sunfish), are bottom feeders that grow to 10 pounds.

The anglers will be using tiny “bloodworms” that are less than an inch long and smaller than an ice fishing maggot.

“We've never fished for those fish but we've been doing our homework on the internet and having dis­ cussions with anglers who are familiar with them,” Forte added. “We're going in with confidence.”

They will be spending the next few months preparing as well as conducting fund-raisers to defray costs of the trip. Angler financial responsibility could run as high as $5,000.

June, 2011 Edition

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ®

DNR sets bass quotas at two Noble County Lakes COLUMBIA CITY – As the June 3 date draws near for an experimental change in bass fishing rules at Big and Crane lakes in Noble County, DNR officials have set quotas on how many bass they want anglers to take out this sum­ mer.

Beginning Friday, June 3, anglers at both lakes will be able to keep up to five bass per day that are 10 to 14 inches long. Bass that are less than 10 inches and those that are 14 inches or longer must be released.

Biologists say the 14-inch minimum size limit now in effect has enabled too many small bass to sur­ vive. Few exceed the limit and catching one bass more than 18 inches long is nearly impossible.

Reducing the number of small bass should increase the size of those that remain.

“We want anglers to take home small bass. By doing so, they can catch fish to eat and help restore balance in both lakes,” said Jed Pearson, DNR biologist.

Based on recent sampling, Big Lake contains twice the normal number of small bass and Crane Lake contains three times the normal number. Nearly 75 percent of the bass in Big Lake are 10 to 14 inches long. Less than 4 percent are 14 inches or larger. At Crane Lake, bass that are 10 to 14 inches long make up 88 percent of its population and only seven percent are 14 inches or larger.

“We estimate there are 4,400 bass that are 10 to 14 inches long in Big Lake and 1,200 in Crane Lake,” Pearson said. “To get bass numbers down to normal levels, anglers will need to take home 2,000 small bass from Big Lake and 600 from Crane Lake.”

Although the new rule goes into effect June 3, the rule is only temporary until the quotas are reached.

After anglers remove half of the small bass in each lake, the 14-inch size limit will go back into effect.

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Additional trout released in select Northern Indiana streams DNR REPORT -­ Indiana DNR Fish & Wildlife has stocked additional trout in Pigeon River in Steuben and LaGrange counties, Turkey Creek in LaGrange County, Little Elkhart River in Elkhart County, Little Kankakee River in LaPorte County and Potato Creek in St. Joseph County. The stocking locations are: • Pigeon River at County Road 175 North and at County Line Road.

Turkey Creek will be stocked at County Road 150 North. Both stream crossings are located on Pigeon River Fish & Wildlife Area.

• Little Elkhart River at the Bonneyville Mill County Park.

• Little Kankakee River at County Road 100 South.

• Potato Creek State Park near the paved bicycle trail creek crossing.

Parking is available at the West lot. Anglers targeting these fish will have to hike or bike approximately one mile along the bicycle trail to get to the area but will be rewarded with unrestricted access along a natu­ rally scenic stream.

ROI -- Continued from cover The excise taxes are collected quarterly from outdoor industry manufacturers and importers for sales on items such as fishing lures, rods and reels, firearms, ammunition and other products. Hunting-, shooting- and fishing-related taxes are collected under the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act and Sport Fish Restoration Act respectively.

Funding is then apportioned to state and territorial fish and wildlife agencies based on land area and state fishing and hunting license sales. Agencies combine these funds with the license revenues to con­ serve fish and wildlife and their habitats and create recreational and educational opportunities. In 2009 alone, more than $740 million was made available to states and territories in addition to the nearly $1.4 billion total paid by hunters and anglers in license fees.

“Outdoor activities like hunting and fishing have shaped who we are as Americans and they are important traditions that must be preserved. In order to do so, conservation and wildlife management must be among our top priorities as sportsmen and women,” said Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus Co-Chair U.S. Congressman Mike Ross, D-Ark. “The revenue from these excise taxes helps fund con­ servation and wildlife management efforts in a fiscally responsible way. Ultimately, the value and opportunities created by improved habitat and more robust fish and wildlife populations bring more sportsmen and women into the fold, which in turn spurs more revenue and keeps the cycle of investment strong.”

“The conservation community has known for a long time that the excise taxes provide a vital fund­ ing source for state agencies and have enhanced fish and wildlife populations,” said Rob Southwick, president of Southwick Associates. “This ROI study, for the first time, demonstrates the substantial bot­ tom line financial benefit of these taxes back to those companies that write the checks.”

According to the ROI study, outdoor industry excise taxes have helped to: • Increase Atlantic striped bass populations by nearly 500 percent since 1982; leading to a 1,000 per­ cent increase in the number of angler trips and generating more than $68 million on average per year in related fishing equipment sales.

• Improve fishing in the Great Lakes from nearly nonexistent in the 1950s to world class for salmon, trout, walleye and yellow perch; generating more than $2 billion in retail sales and supporting more than 58,000 jobs.

• Turn Wyoming into one of the top destinations for elk hunting with 23,000 harvested annually when in 1937 only a few hunts were permitted.

“Everyone who has a stake in hunting or fishing—from hunters and anglers who enjoy the resource to manufacturers who make the products—benefits,” said Ron Regan, executive director of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. “State fish and wildlife agencies particularly benefit as these funds represent the single largest, dedicated funding source for science-based conservation programs.”

The report concludes that a decrease or elimination of outdoor industry excise tax funding would reduce long-term investment into the foundation of the sport-fishing and hunting—fish and game pop­ ulations, public access and recruitment of future customers. Such a circumstance would, in turn, cause a downward spiral in participation, which would further diminish consumer spending on the equipment produced by manufacturers.

“The Benefits to Business from Hunting and Fishing Excise Taxes” report along with full reports that include technical details, are available for free at www.SouthwickAssociates.com/excisetaxROI.

® Volume 2011 • Number 6 Publisher: Brian E. Smith Assistant Publisher: Mark C. Smith Editor-in-Chief: Joshua D. Lantz Sportsmen’s Rights Editor: Rick Story Field Editor: John Martino, Central Indiana Field Photographer: Bill Konway Graphic Design: graphics@ION4U.net Layout & Editing: Sand Creek Media Office Manager: Shannon E. Smith Advertising Sales: (877) 251-2112 E-Mail: contact@ION4U.net Web Site: www.IndianaOutdoorNews.net Business & Publication Office: Mailing Address: P.O. Box 69, Granger, Indiana 46530 Phone: (877) 251-2112 • Fax: (800) 496-8075 INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS® is the official publication of Raghorn Incorporated, and is pub­ lished monthly at the address listed above. For home delivery and subscription rates, look for the subscription card in this publication. Editorial contributions may be submitted to the above address. No material can be returned unless accompanied by a stamped, self addressed envelope.

Photographs are accepted and greatly appreciated. All materials submitted become the property of Raghorn Incorporated and are subject to editing to meet the objectives of this publication. The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the individual authors, not the edi­ tors, staff or any other representative of RAGHORN’S INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS or Raghorn, Inc. “Raghorn’s Indiana Outdoor News” is a registered Trademark of Raghorn Incorporated. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No part of this publication may be used or copied without prior written consent of Raghorn Inc. Violation of copyright laws will be prosecuted.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to RAGHORN’S INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS, P.O. Box 69, Granger, Indiana 46530.

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INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ®

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June, 2011 Edition

You’re a Lousy Shot

The Straight Shooter BRENTWHEAT There, I've said it.

Yes, I know that rule number one of the Magazine Writer's Guild is “Never alienate your read­ ers in the headline of your first column,” but since we seldom fol­ low literary rules anyway, it was time that somebody told the unpleasant truth.

This wild and provocative generalization is based upon many years of hunting, shooting instruction and teaching. For every instance where I see some­ one who is competent with their weapons system, I see too many other folks who couldn't hit the inside of a hat if it were propped on the muzzle of their rifle.

If you question this view­ point, just think about some of the deer brought to processing plants during firearms season; many of the carcasses appear as if they led an unsuccessfully assault on a machinegun nest at Normandy Beach. A few years ago I saw one buck that had eight bul­ let wounds, including several in the legs. If duly authorized, I

would chain the hunter responsi­ ble for this remarkably bad shoot­ ing to a bike rack in front of PETA headquarters.

The problem lies in the fact that many hunters don't practice with their firearm because they firmly believe, “Hey, I'm an American male and I instinctively know how to shoot any gun, pad­ dle a canoe, hold my liquor, drive a vehicle at high speed, impress the ladies, etc.”

We all know the real answers to this widespread but grand selfdelusion -- especially the wives and girlfriends in the audience.

Regardless of what you think, the fact remains that shooting is a perishable skill which slowly disappears over time. Granted, your skills return much quicker when you begin to practice again, but the ability to shoot accurately deteriorates with each passing day since you were last at the range.

I would guess that the majori­ ty of hunters don't even bother to sight in their weapons, judging by the carnage we've seen at the butcher shop. For anyone who believes in ethical and humane hunting, this is unconscionable.

Of those who do check their weapon, another sizable majority only spends a few minutes and fewer shots to “make sure it's still hitting.” I have witnessed this on the firing range many times.

Even if you are in the minori­ ty who regularly practice at the gun range, do you really know the

basic skills required to shoot accurately? If you haven't had for­ mal training, odds are that you have learned a few dozen bad habits over the years. With limit­ ed space to cover this complex topic, I will cut to the chase and present the bare-bones version of the marksmanship fundamentals: proper control of sights and trig­ ger, with follow-through on both.

If you can master these basic skills, you can shoot any firearm accurately.

Most hunters use iron sights but many don't know how to properly utilize them: the key to shooting with open sights is maintaining a sharp focus on the front post or bead. This runs counter to intuition and human nature, which tells us to watch the target and not a piece of metal stuck to the business end of the gun. However, if you maintain a steady, sharp focus on the front sight, your accuracy will improve dramatically.

If you use a scope, the target and the crosshairs are in the same focal plane and thus both are in focus, making aiming easier.

Unfortunately, hunters cause themselves problems when they watch their intended target instead of focusing on the crosshairs.

This will cause the aiming point to wander around while you are thinking about how nice that buck will look over your fire­ place.

Proper trigger pull is some­ thing that must be practiced many

thousands of times to master instinctively. There are several techniques for trigger pull, but an even, steady squeeze to the rear works with all weapons. The most commonly seen mistake is a quick mash or slap on the trigger that will actually set the firearm moving off target well before the bullet has exited the barrel. The perfect trigger pull is a steady squeeze followed by a surprise break of the shot.

Following through on sights and trigger is important for the same reasons just given. If you relax immediately after firing in order to see the glorious results of your shot, you actually began lowering the barrel before the bullet is downrange. Instead, you must program yourself to reacquire the sights after the shot as if you were taking an immediate follow-up, which might be necessary

anyway. In other words, if you shoot twice, you should have three sight pictures and so forth.

Trigger follow-through is simply continuing the trigger pull after shot. This should take less than a second but will greatly enhance accuracy by preventing you from slapping or jerking the trigger.

A good hunter is one who strives to hone his or her skills so that every kill is the quick, humane culmination of an honorable hunt instead of something that resembles the aftermath of the Second Battle of Bull Run. “Spray and pray” might work in gangster movies but we claim to be hunters and with that title comes responsibilities, both to our quarry and ourselves.

Be sure you skillfully shoul­ der that responsibility alongside your weapon this fall.

Brent T. Wheat is an expert in the fields of shooting, selfdefense, law enforcement and firearms.

Still working as a fulltime street cop after more than twenty years, his experiences in both the tactical and hunting worlds give him a unique perspective to comment on the practical applications of firearms. Brent T. Wheat can be reached through his website at http://wildindiana.com. Photo provided.

June, 2011 Edition

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ®

crappie action, head for Willow Slough with redworms and bemoths. Wolf Lake is provid­ ing some great bass, crappie, muskie and walleye. Leeches are the choice bait for walleyes and the bass are hitting on plastics.

JIMBIDDLE Wasn’t May exciting? I just love those 40 degree temperature swings. I started my mornings with a jacket then later in the day I would be wearing shorts and by evening back to the jacket.

Here at my place we are enjoying the first major hatch of mosqui­ toes. I’m getting a lot of use out of ThermaCell mosquito repel­ lant!

On May 14th I spent a cou­ ple of hours at Mik-Lurch Tackle in Hammond during their cus­ tomer appreciation day. They served up some great fish along with all the trimmings, and I sure learned a lot during Captain Ralph Steiger’s perch seminar.

Here’s a look at what to expect around the state this month: Lake Michigan Glen Gajewski at Mik-Lurch Tackle in Hammond reports good action with chinooks and coho salmon at 65 feet using spin doc­ tors, meat rigs or gin and tonic colored nbk spoons. Glen says it’s a perch bonanza around Gary Light and Power using fly rigs.

If you want great bluegill and

Saint Joseph River Dick Parker at Parker’s Central Bait & Tackle in Mishawaka says fishing is great on the river -- especially upstream of Twin Branch Dam. You can take crappie with min­ nows and bluegillwith wigglers or waxworms. Use tubes if you want to take a nice smallmouth bass.

Northwest Indiana Penny Boisvert from Greenwood Bait Shop in English Lake tells me the mosquitoes are biting pretty good so bring your repellant!

Crappie action is pretty good along the shoreline of the Kankakee River.

Bluegills are hitting good at Horseshoe Bend. Penny expects the walleye action to pick up this month.

Mike Waller at A. L. Bait & Tackle in North Judson says crap­ pie action is good at Bass Lake -­ especially around the boat ramp.

They seem to like crickets. Fish the deep holes with a minnow if you’re going for walleyes.

Bruce Lake has been producing some nice muskie action recent­ l y. The best action seems to be with a giant jackpot jerk bait.

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The Tippecanoe river is a good spot for smallmouth bass. Mike says they’re hitting night crawlers.

Central Indiana Richard McCalla at the Bait Barn in Indianapolis reports great fishing on the north side in Eagle Creek and on Geist around Fall Creek Parkway. The smallmouth bass are hitting on night crawlers and red worms in Eagle Creek. Richard says pri­ vate ponds and pits in the area are also hot for crappie and bluegill.

For a change of pace, go for rock bass in the shade areas -- espe­ cially in pooling water.

East Central Indiana Ed Gipson at Peacepipe Bait & Tackle at Andrews says they’re taking lots of crappies on min­ nows and tube jigs along the shoreline. Ed tells me the cat­ fish action is coming on strong.

The Mississinewa and Salamonie Reservoirs are great spots for largemouth bass on plastic worms or Jitterbugs.

North Central Indiana Dave Garber from Ye Old Tackle Box at North Webster says in the next week the largemouth bass will be going to deeper water so fish the weed lines with plastic worms or Rapalas.

Muskie action is good with suck­ ers on Webster, Tippy and the Barbee Chain Smallmouth bass action is hot on Wawasee north

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of the launch area. The bluegill and crappie action is still going strong.

Southwest Indiana Dedra Hawkins at The Fishin Shedd in Bloomington tells me the fishing has been great and she expects it to continue that way this month. The water at Monroe is still high, but the ramp at Paynetown is open.

They’re taking crappies on min­ nows or large grubs, bluegills on crickets and catfish on chicken livers and night crawlers. As if that’s not enough the wipers are hitting big time on artificials.

The walleye action should pick up this month and when they do, use large shiners.

West Central Indiana J o h n Raines from Twin Lakes Fish & Game in Monticello says come on down the fishing is great. The silvers are hitting on rooster tails, gay blades or jigs with a minnow.

The hotspot is just below the dam. Catfish action is great.

The crappie are really providing

Hammond firemen from Station Number 7 enjoy the fish fry at Mik-Lurch Tackle’s May 14 Customer Appreciation Day.

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some great action and you can get them with minnows or tube jigs ­ - especially around the boat lifts and docks. Large mouth bass are still spawning in the shallow areas especially in the bays.

Some smallmouth are also still spawning in the main lake in a little deeper water.

Hopefully mother nature will quit fooling with us and the good fishing weather will stay around for a while. From the sound of things fishing is really picking up, so grab your gear and head out. Don’t hesitate to stop in and say “hi” to some of these folks that provide us with all the information we need to find and catch fish. Be sure and tell them ol’ JB sent you and don’t forget to pick up some supplies while your there.

Until next time, remember what ol’ JB always says, “ a tre­ ble hook trebles the chance of catching a fish, but quadruples the chance of getting it caught in your thumb.” See you next month.

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INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ®

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June, 2011 Edition

A Marketplace for the Outdoor Enthusiast!

World Class Fly Fishing with Josh Lantz

Crossword Answers on page 16!

BASS • STEELHEAD • SALMON • MUSKIE

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2”x2” ad just $30 per run!

574-273-5160

Fly fishing and light tackle angling for trophy bass, steelhead & muskie close to home in Southwest Michigan & Northwest Indiana.

Just an hour-and-a-half from Chicago, two hours from Fort Wayne and three hours from Indianapolis. Drift boat/wade fishing for steelhead, salmon and smallmouth bass.

Trophy largemouth bass & muskie trips are done from a well-equipped 19’ center console.

All forms of light tackle are welcome. Full or half-day trips. Equipment provided! Book now for best dates.

WWW.GOFISHN.COM/JOSHLANTZ 219-728-8996

June, 2011 Edition

LAKE ERIE The most important trait any angler can have is confidence.

Show me a charter captain who will guarantee me fish and I will say, “You’re hired!”

One Lake Erie charter boat captain puts his money where his mouth is by offering clients a “No Fish-No Pay” policy. If I were you, I’d get on board his boat, and fast!

Dave Borzeniatow operates Fast Action Charters and fishes for walleye, bass and perch out of Wild Wings Marina in Oak Harbor, Ohio, just a stone’s throw from the Indiana state line.

He is in his fourth year of opera­ tion and has only had to “eat” his fee once in hundreds of trips with clients on the nation’s premier walleye lake.

“Our bread and butter is wall­ eye fishing,” said Borzeniatow.

“We start off the year casting and move to trolling as the summer progresses, but we’ll do whatever the client wants to do.” Of course, diverting from the captain’s game plan can negate the No Fish-No Pay policy, but that doesn’t seem to slow down Fast Action Charters’ steady stream of cus­ tomers.

“We get better than an 85 per cent return rate from our clients, which I hope means we’re doing things right,” he said. “And we fish bass and perch, too, and are even going to move to the west­ ern basin of Lake Erie for perch, big walleye and steelhead later this summer, so if a client wants to do something different, we can accommodate them.”

The Indiana native has been fishing Lake Erie since 1999 and his confidence is the result of

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No Fish No Pay! Lake Erie Captain Offers Fast Action over a decade of experience on the lake. He is sponsored by Wolverine Lures of Orchard, MI and uses the company’s spoons for trolling when the lake is flat and the casting action slows down in the heat of summer.

“We’ve become very profi­ cient at spoon trolling and we’re confident we can put fish on ice when the action slows down for most anglers on the lake,” said Borzeniatow.

This captain’s mission is to put his clients on fish and to put those fish in the cooler. Now that the cost of fuel has gone through the roof, many big water charter captains are doing the bare mini­ mum of running to the fishing holes in the interest of protect­ ing their profit marg i n s .

Borzeniatow’s philosophy is simple: “We’ll run 30 miles and back if that’s what it takes to put the client on fish. We’re young and won’t be in business very long unless we continue to build our reputation by doing what it takes to come in with fish and satisfied clients.”

The last successful charter boat captain who offered a No Fish-No Pay policy on Lake Erie, as far as anyone can remember, was the legendary Glen Lau, who went on to build a successful film production business in Ocala, Florida. When you see a TV com­ mercial featuring underwater fish­ ing scenes, there’s a very good chance it was produced by Glen Lau Productions.

Lau operated out of Lake Erie’s Channel Grove Marina, in West Harbor, under a No Fish-No Pay policy for more than a decade in the 1950s until the mid ‘60s. He boasts that he

never left a client without some spending money jingling in his pocket!

“It’s a tall order to deliver fish to clients, no matter their level of fishing prowess, every time out,” he said. “I came close to striking out more than a few times, but somehow always came through before the end of the client’s day.”

Lau hopes Dave Borzeniatow is able to keep up his remarkable record of success, and by all accounts, he is on his way to a successful 2011 .

“The fishing is beginning to heat up and we expect an out­ standing year. We anticipate good-sized walleyes this year and have already seen some 10­ pounders at our marina. We’ve put

one in the boat over nine pounds and we’re just getting started.”

Borzeniatow says the perch fishing should be excellent in the coming months as well, and that smallmouth fishing is still alive and well, despite negative reports by some to the contrary.

“It’s a new day for small­ mouth fishing at Lake Erie,” he said, referring to the sliding num­ bers of the gamefish due to the influx of exotic species like the round goby, which has dimin­ ished the bass spawn in recent years. “We’re catching big fish, but not in the numbers of years gone by. But, if you’re looking for size, there’s still good fishing at Western LakeErie.”

One thing is for certain, if you book a charter with Fast

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By Rick Story

Action Charters, you will catch fish.

“Our philosophy is that the client is the first priority,” said Borzeniatow. “ It’s your day on the lake and our job is to make it as much fun and as memorable as we can. That’s how we think of each and every client and it’s what will keep us in busness for a long time to come.”

Fast Action Charters’ stan­ dard trip is only $480 for up to six anglers, which gets your party eight hours’ fishing.

These are darn reasonable prices, especially when split six ways!

To book a trip with Dave and Fast Action Charters on their 27­ foot SportCraft, phone (574) 304-1903. Check them out on the web at fastactioncharters.com.

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June, 2011 Edition

Offbeat Patterns

BILLTAKACS In today's electronic era anglers are blessed with a wide variety of sources to fuel their fishing passion. Years ago when I was first bitten by the fishing “bug” we had the “Big Three” national magazines that carried fishing articles and little else until Fishing Facts Magazine came along. Since then there are a number of national magazines and species-specific publications to cover virtually every aspect of freshwater fishing today.

Fishing shows on TV were also quite limited back then with Virgil Ward, Gaddabout Gaddis and Jim Thomas capturing my full attention. Curt Gowdy also pro­ vided some fishing action, but he covered hunting as well. Later Al and Ron Lindner produced one of the most popular fishing shows ever. Today's airways are full of fishing shows, but you better have expanded cable TV to see most of them.

Fishing videos and now DVDs are available for almost every freshwater species you could think of and the list seems

almost endless. Most of them are quality productions that educate and entertain.

The Internet opens up yet another new venue for angling information that truly is incredi­ ble. Information flows every­ where today. It is easier than ever for an angler to learn through these avenues of information, but with it comes one caveat. Total reliance on the experiences of others can close one's mind to reality and what may seem to be totally out of place or not in tune with what we have been told.

Let me take smallmouth bass for an example, and describe to you in the following paragraphs some scenarios that could best be described as non-typical small­ mouth behavior.

Early Spring Smallmouths I recall an early spring fish­ ing trip for smallmouth bass on southern Lake Michigan. Water temperature on the eight-to-ten­ foot flats was approaching the ideal mark of 50 degrees, leading one to believe that a prespawn movement would be taking place.

However, after a few hours of fruit­ less casting with no takers, it was obvious that something was wrong. Only after fishing 45­ degree rock drop-offs in 17 - 20 feet of water were we able to put some bass in the boat. Hardly where you would expect to find those bass, given the conditions for that day.

Summert i m e S m a l l i e s Several years ago I was on a canoe trip to Quetico Provincial Park in southern Ontario. Not only is Quetico one of the most scenic fishing destinations that I have been to, but it also hosts a world-class smallmouth fishery.

We were catching our share of smallies fishing the first breakline off the flats and also in deep­ er water off the rocky points, reefs, and islands. Every one of our bass was taken in deep water within a foot or two of bottom.

Certainly no big surprise since it was August.

One day we were paddling around a rocky point in thirty to forty feet of water when a school of hungry smallies came busting through the surface, chasing and herding a school of minnows to the top. We had no idea what kind of fish they were at first, but as we later watched for more distur­ bances and began casting Rattlin' Raps we found out.

I suspect that this could be a common pattern on larger bodies of water like the Great Lakes or huge reservoirs, where the smallmouths could be relating to schools of roving forage such as alewives or shad.

Late Fall / Early Wi n t e r Smallies Fishing partner “Flip” Phelps from Cedar Lake, Indiana and I were fishing a stretch of the St. Joe River in Michigan on a

November day. Surface water tem­ perature read 38-degrees - much too cold for good smallmouth bass fishing from everything that I had read or been told. We pulled up to one slack-water eddy with good depth and anchored. This was an excellent spot with the slack-water, good depth and a mix of logs and rocks not too far out from shore. We then proceeded to catch and release smallmouth after smallmouth for the next three hours! And here is another mind-

boggling fact - every one of those bass was caught on nightcrawlers, not minnows. Honest!

Are the above examples sim­ ply flukes or just more of their normal behavior? They certainly are deviations from what most of us have read or been taught.

Watch, read, learn and absorb as much information as you can, but also have an open mind and “think outside the box” for better catches of any species that you might pursue!

Fish are often where you find them -- despite where the magazine articles and television shows say they should be. Photo by Brian Smith.

June, 2011 Edition

OUTDOOR TRAVEL As hunters and fishermen we all are looking for huge bucks, strutting toms, and limits of chunky fish. While this nir­ vana is a hazy dream for most, it is a reali­ ty for a few in the know.

Before you whisper “Canada”, think a little closer, in fact, a lot closer. The sportsmen’s paradise I am speaking of is just a stone’s throw from Indiana. Think western Kentucky. Think Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake, that have a combined shoreline of 3,068 miles and cover over 210,000 acres!

That’s more shoreline than Lake Superior and twenty times bigger than Lake Monroe! In fact, Kentucky Lake alone is the largest man-made reservoir in the eastern US. With numerous rock ledges, rip-rap, lay-downs, docks, channels, humps, and manmade crappie structure, the fishing is legendary for crappie, bass, catfish, and more. Thanks to liberal fishing regula­ tions local fisherman commonly deploy multi-pole (pun intended) spider rigs to seek out the huge slab crappie. On my last visit I personally netted a chunky two-pounder.

An excellent place to base your fish­ ing adventure is Eddy Creek Marina and Resort, just a few miles south of Eddyville, KY. The marina has every­ thing needed by an outdoor family, start­ ing with two paved ramps to launch your

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ®

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Western KY is Outdoor Nirvana fishing rig. They also have Echo Charlie’s, a first rate restaurant that is open daily for all meals and serves the best prime rib I’ve had in years. Kids of all ages will enjoy tossing tidbits to the hun­ gry swarms of bluegills below the restau­ rant’s open air picnic deck.

As expected for any marina, they also service and repair boats of all sizes and have live bait.

Nestled in sweet gum, maple, and oaks, the sleeping quarters are just a short walk away, and range from motel-like rooms to family-sized log cabins. Turkey hunters may need to be reminded to keep their guns cased as wild turkeys feed around the picnic area and cabins. If fam­ ily members decide that fishing isn’t their thing, that’s okay because they can relax on the sand beaches at the resort or head out for boating, local shopping and his­ torical sites.

The trophy white-tailed deer hunting in western Kentucky is a little known fse­ cret that is backed up by some big num­ bers.

In a recent report, western Kentucky was listed in the top seven areas of the U.S. at producing Boone & Crockett bucks.

In 2009, Quality Deer Management Association’s (QDMA) annu­ al report had this to say: “Relatively unknown among whitetail enthusiasts 10 years ago, the Bluegrass State has stormed up the B&C rankings over the last five

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By Alan Garbers

years” Why is this? Quality deer hunt­ ing requires lots of habitat laced with farmlands with little hunting pressure.

That describes western Kentucky where in some places human density is less than one person per square mile and deer densi­ ty can be over 40 per square mile.

Added to this is the Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area (LBL). At over 140,000 acres of managed forest and savanna, the varying habitat is a hunter’s dream. The LBL also has an expansive nature area with elk and bison to watch and photograph.

Turkey hunters will find western Kentucky thick with big birds -- so thick that hunters are allowed two bearded birds per tag. Of the states surrounding them, Kentucky tied with Tennessee for first place in the number of birds harvested per square mile, and Tennessee cheated by hav­ ing a longer season!

If turkey hunting is your obsession, you might want to hook up with Russell and Michele Edwards, owners of Winghaven Lodge near Marion, KY. As the name implies, Russell and Michele are passionate about bird hunting. If it has wings, they hunt it, from waterfowl to upland, including quail. They have five thousand acres of private ground that is crawling with wild turkey. If that isn’t enough to get your blood pumping, they offer a three day, all-inclusive, fully guid­ ed package with meals, lodging and turkey hunting. Bring your fishing poles because when you’re not hunting you can fish in their private lake-sized ponds.

Western Kentucky isn’t just about hunting and fishing. The region is filled with shopping, festivals, unique dining, golf, nature walks, hiking trails, sightsee­ ing, and more. With the way fuel prices are, touring western Kentucky is easy on the gas gauge. In fact, in a recent survey gas averages thirty cents a gallon cheaper in Kentucky than in Indiana.

www.zolmantire.com

Frabill’s Heather Brosdahl shows one of several, chunky Lake Barkley crappies we caught during a recent afternoon of fishing.

I won’t say the locals are friendly, but they drive around with the dome light on at night just so you can see them waving.

Don’t believe me? Go see for yourself.

You’ll find out, just as I did, sportsman nirvana is just a short drive away.

More Information: Eddy Creek Marina and Resort www.eddycreek.com Winghaven Lodge www.winghavenlodge.com Lake Barkley Tourist Commission www.lakebarkley.org

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June, 2011 Edition

It’s Summer, and Bowhunting is on your Mind

BABEWINKELMAN The hunting bug. Yes, it’s allconsuming. I’ve got it. You’ve got it. And even when it’s the off­ season it doesn’t go away. There is simply no cure. So what’s a person to do when they want to hunt but can’t? The answer is easy: become a better hunter.

There are two sure-fire ways to improve your odds of scoring in the upcoming season. One is to improve your knowledge of the animals in your hunting grounds; and you can do this through scout­ ing and observing, either on foot with binoculars or with cuttingedge digital scouting cameras.

The second way to become a more accomplished predator is to hone your shooting skills during the off-season, to help ensure lethal arrow placement later.

Your e y e s in t h e w oods Digital scouting cameras have forever changed the way we scout for whitetails. In addition to showing you the exact animals you have working your property, they can also help you “pattern” the herd, as well as individual

bucks.

I talked to a bowhunter and fan recently at a sport & hunting show. He was eager to show me photos on his smartphone of a buck he harvested last year. It was a dandy! A mature 9-pointer with amazing mass and big, palmated brow tines that looked like knife blades.

He told me the story of how he took the impressive whitetail.

He had one of his Cuddeback cam­ eras on the edge of a tiny food plot he had planted in a small clearing in his woods. He retrieved his images once a week during mid-afternoon when he was least likely to spook anything.

On several occasions, when there was a south wind, he had photo­ graphic evidence of the buck accessing the food plot at about 4:30 p.m.

So this sharp guy waited for an afternoon when there was a perfect south wind and snuck into his stand near that food plot at about 2:00 p.m. Right around 4:20, that massive 9-pointer came sneaking in for an afternoon snack -- just like clockwork. The hunter’s Rage broadhead from 30 yards blew through both lungs and made that young man a very happy bowhunter!

This demonstrates an impor­ tant point about using cameras properly. Instead of just looking at all the interesting pictures you capture, keep careful daily records of wind direction, temperature,

lunar phase and general condi­ tions so you can cross-reference the dates and times of photos.

This will dramatically help you pattern deer movement and activi­ t y.

During the summer months, scouting cameras can reveal a lot about what you can expect come fall. No, you can’t look at pol­ ished antlers. But you can moni­ tor those bucks in velvet as they grow. One of my favorite summer tactics is to put my Cuddeback cameras near mineral lick sites, because deer visit those sites very predictably to get the nutrients they instinctively know they need for antler growth, milk pro­ duction, etc.

Shoot your b e s t !

Aside from scouting, the other critical off-season activity is to spend time at the range. If you have enough room where you live to take even 15-yard shots, set a goal for yourself to take at least 10 shots per day. And when you practice, try to mix things up a bit.

Put your Block target behind narrow gaps between trees, so it becomes commonplace to snake arrows through small openings.

Shoot standing, but also practice your shooting from sitting on a stool, kneeling and even sitting on the ground. If you hunt prima­ rily from a treestand, put your tar­ get below an upstairs deck, or strap a ladder stand to a tree in

your yard. Shooting from an ele­ vated position, particularly down at severe angles, is far different than shooting on flat ground.

Repeated practice sessions do more than improve your shooting form and accuracy. They also extend your range and the build

the most important characteristic a bowhunter can have: Confidence! When you KNOW a buck is going down the moment you release that bowstring -- well, that’s just the greatest feeling in the world.

Good Hunting!

Field Scan Time Lapse Software Now Available Bushnell Outdoor Products has partnered with Scouting Assistant to introduce a new software application for Trophy Cam users. Field Scan Time Lapse software allows users to review days of time-lapse images in minutes thanks to sophisticated motion search technology.

Bushnell introduced Field Scan technology with the 2011 Bushnell Trophy Cam line to help trail camera users more effec­ tively pattern game and capture images outside the 45-foot motion activated sensor range. With Field Scan, users can set the trail camera to capture images at pre-set intervals of one minute to one hour, while simultaneously capturing live trigger images.

Field Scan Time Lapse software allows users to import time lapse image collections from an SD card to the computer, and quickly review the frames with variable speed playback. With the software's motion search technology, users can create custom searches and efficiently scan captured images for key frames.

Photo sets can ultimately be converted to high speed motion video that can be easily viewed or shared.

Each 2011 Bushnell Trophy Cam includes one free license for the Field Scan Time Lapse software. Software download and registration instructions are available with product literature or can be accessed online.

For more information, v i s i t www.bushnell.com.

June, 2011 Edition

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ANGLING DESTINATIONS Lakes along the U.S. and Canadian border abound with ample amounts of walleyes. But if I had to pick one lake it would be Lake of the Woods. The reason is that it will produce tons of walleyes each year, and it is fed by the prolific Rainy River.

Lake of the Woods’ vast shal­ low reefs adjacent to deep water are a magnet to these magnificent table fare wonders. But one area that is overlooked by many peo­ ple who usually fish walleyes shallow, are the lake’s various deep water humps.

The bait of choice is a big juicy nightcrawler, twirling behind a spinner on a double hook rig. Leeches and minnows can also be used, but it’s tough to beat a crawler, especially in the summer or early fall. There are a variety of ways to drag the whole package to the bottom and keep it in the fish zone, but the bottom bouncer -- an L shaped piece of wire with a lead weight on one end and an eye for attaching the line to the other end -- has been the most popular approach for trolling spinner rigs. Bottom bouncers work well over rocks, sand, gravel and mud, in shallow to moderate depths.

Our first call to secure our vacation plans this year was to Tom and Jean Kratzke, owners and operators of Randall’s Resort in Baudette, MN. This past winter we stayed a couple of days with Tom and Jean and were privileged to experience their excellent ice fishing package as well as some great conversation with Tom and Jean about turkey hunting.

Randall’s Resort is a family run business with 11 full house-

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ®

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Top of the World Walleye Capital keeping cabins. In the cabins you will find a stove, full size refrig­ erator, electric coffee pot, microwave, dishes, pots and pans and utensils, dish soap, paper towels and kitchen linens. Each bedroom has two twin size beds, which have the linens, blanket and comforter on them. The bath­ room features a tub/shower, stool, sink; and one set of towels is included for each guest. The dining area and living room in most units are together, and all units have a couch, table and chairs and Direct TV. If you don’t want to pull your boat up to Lake of the Woods, Randall’s Resort has boat rentals from a Jon boat to charter fish­ ing. If you select charter fishing, we would recommend that you ask for Grant. Grant is the top guide at Randall’s and he can put you on some really good fish using spin­ ners or down rigging.

If you are not interested in fishing, a host of other activities are available. You can canoe or kayak and enjoy leisurely trips on the bay at Randall’s Resort.

Birding and wildflower viewing, or simple walks on the beach are great activities as well. You will love the great service and cozy, friendly atmosphere. For more information call (800) 718-9911 .

Reservations Only: Phone: (218) 634-1987 Tom & Jean Kratzke 3984 County Rd 8 NW Baudette, MN 56623 or thekratzkes@yahoo.com.

If you want a family vacation with more of the traditional north woods lodge feeling or you want to entertain clients for a corpo­ rate retreat, visit Sportsman’s Lodge in Baudette. When you

visit any of Sportsman's three locations; Sportsman's Rainy River, Eagle Ridge and Oak Island -- regardless of the season, tem­ perature, barometric pressure or any other factors -- the Minnesota fishing here is leg­ endary. From one season to another the only thing that changes is the approach, but the results are the same: a great catch.

Catching fish here is easy because everything is taken care of: lodging, meals, licenses, rods and reels, bait, tackle and fish cleaning (filets delivered right to your room). Their guides will put you on the fish. All you have to do is show up.

Imagine spending the day bobbing along the waves; just you and five of your favorite friends, soaking up the sun, spending a summer day in style on a charter out of Sportsman's Lodge on Minnesota's Lake of the Woods. Nothing can compare to Minnesota fishing, with walleyes, saugers, perch, Northern pike, muskie, small­ mouth and lake sturgeon.

We also enjoyed ice fishing out of Sportsman’s Lodge this past winter and our recommenda­ tion for a winter or summer guide is Joe Pilkington Email Joe ­ info@sportsmanslodges.com. He is a very hard working young man who really enjoys putting his clients on great fishing.

The lodge features 30 motel rooms. Standard rooms have two double beds, a full bathroom, and television with HBO, writing table, chairs, and a freezer for your daily catch. All rooms are air-conditioned and receive daily maid service. The entire lodge,

June, 2011 Edition

By Bob Riege

The author holds a nice Lake of the Woods walleye. Photo by Ginny Riege. rooms & cabins are nonsmoking.

The two Honeymoon Suites have a king sized bed. The Executive Suite has a separate entertainment room, with small bar, large screen television and spacious meeting area. It's the perfect place to entertain clients or get together with your group.

The 21 cabins offer a variety of floor plans, from cozy onebedroom units to the spacious 4­ bedroom model for larger groups or families. All towels and linens are furnished with daily maid service. Cabins are also equipped with a stove, refrigerator, dishes, shower, cable television and tele­ phone. Pets are allowed, $15 per night.

Sportsman’s Lodge also offers an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, meeting space for up to 300 people, 16 charter boats, docking, 40 (winter) fish houses, gift shop, Len C river boat cruis­ es, wedding services, charter

busses, and spa services.

The shore lunch is one of the most enjoyable and memorable parts of the Northwoods angling experience, and Sportsman’s does it right. Enjoy watching your guide cook your fresh walleye over an open fire, accompanied by potatoes, beans, bread and cookies for dessert. Or, enjoy your fresh fish in their dining room or bar after a day's trip.

Sportsman’s Lodge also offers an Adventure Package. On this adventure you can experience the fishing and lodging outside Baudette or Oak Island properties.

Oak Island is on the Northwest Angle and you can fish adjacent to Canadian waters without a passport.

For more information or reservations contact: Sportsman's Lodges, 3244 Bur Oak Road NW, Baudette, MN 56623, 866-533-8998 or www.sportsmanslodgelow.com.

June, 2011 Edition

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ®

Frabill Crawfish Trap You say “crawdad,” I say “crayfish.” “Crayfish, crawdad…let’s call the whole thing ON!” Little lobsters of the lakes, crayfish are one of the most appealing foodstuffs to a wide array of fish species. Crawfish are a no-brain­ er with largemouth and smallmouth bass. Even panfish - bluegills, crappies and perch - munch on juvenile, appetizer sized crayfish. Why else would vir­ tually every lure on the market come in a crawdad pattern?

This widespread craving for crawfish makes them a premium livebait offering, too. Better yet, they’re one of the easiest natural forage species to cap­ ture, as many of us may remember from our childhoods. On the fun scale, trapping crayfish ranks right up there with sticking the hooks to a hog bass, and it is a great way for kids to make a little extra money -- provided they fill out the form and fork over the $10 for an Indiana Bait Dealer’s License.

But not every crawdad trapper does so for fishing purposes. The pincer-

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predators are also the pivotal piece in many recipes, especially on Cajun menus.

Frabill’s 12”x12”x5” black, rectangular crayfish trap sells online and in bait stores for around $18.

FrabillMinnow Traps Frabill makes a variety of minnow traps as well, including this 18”x8”x8” model, which sells for about $21. It’s a great way to save money and have fun while catching your own bait.

Check out the full line of crayfish and minnow traps from Frabill at www.frabill.com/bait-care-management/bait-traps.html See Indiana bait dealers’ license requirements at: www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/files/fw-BaitDealersLicenseRegulations.pdf

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June, 2011 Edition

Kent Hartman of Goshen shot this 22-lb tom on May 5, 2011. He was using a 20 gauge and took it in Switzerland County.

THIS MONTH’S WINNER! 9-year-old Austin DeLee of Plymouth took his second-ever turkey during Indiana’s 2011 youth hunt with his 20 gauge at 23-yards. The big tom was 26-lbs with an 11 inch beard. Outstanding, Austin!

Larry Koerner caught a recent limit of crappie on Patoka Lake fishing with J & R Guide Service. The fish were caught up the Little Patoka River on 1/8-oz. jigs and 3-inch grubs.

Hunter Morrett on left and Mason Campbell on right had a great day hunting with their dads last fall.

This months answers From Puzzle on Page 8

Wheatfield, Indiana NWTF member, Willie Wireman, took this 23-lb. tom on the second day of the Indiana season. After having 8 toms hang up at 70-yds on opening day for 2 1/2 hrs,the next day Willie decided it was time to leave his strutting jake in the truck. The deci­ sion proved to be the right one. This fine gob­ bler sported a 10-3/4" beard and 20-mm spurs.

Craig Stanley isn’t saying where he caught this 5­ pounder last month.

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: Gone Afield P.O. Box 69 Granger, IN 46530 E-mail submissions welcome at: www.contact@ION4U.net.

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June, 2011 Edition

KIDS OUTDOORS To Jason Mitchell, introducing kids to fishing and hooking them on the sport ideally takes place on the same day. It's a specialty that takes a commitment from an adult that goes beyond “letting 'em come along.”

Mitchell is a veteran guide from Devils Lake, North Dakota, who travels widely to fish and film Jason Mitchell Outdoors television. Still a relatively young man himself, he has a huge soft spot in his heart for help­ ing youngsters become attached to angling-including his own kids, Olivia and Brennen.

“It has to be about the kids and their fishing,” begins Jason. “Your child-to-adult ratio has to be low. You can't expect to take out more than two kids, and it's best if it's one-on-one.

“And you have to be in a good spot. It doesn't have to be a fly-in trip; it can just be a good spot off a dock, or the best bullhead spot in the area. As long as you can provide something with fins, some action, you're off to a good start.”

Kids Own the Day While guiding, Jason has seen firsthand what hap­ pens when parents want their kids to pursue big walleyes rather than the faster action of smaller walleyes, or better yet, panfish.

“If parents put their own desires in front of the kids', it's usually a disaster,” he says. “Don't go out there to impress these kids with your advanced abilities. Have their first trips be something simple they can grasp.

Something where they can have success.

“Try to find a situation where it's easy, in a sense.

Take them to a place where they can cast and not get into trouble, but let them make mistakes without criticizing their technique. When you take a youngster fishing, that day is their day. You're fishing for whatever bites. And you stop when they want to, even if it's after just an hour.

Kids don't have the threshold to stay out all day, even if it's a nice day.”

After an outing or two, if a youngster is taking to the sport, then it can be time to broaden their horizons-but keep the training wheels on.

“You can take them out trolling crankbaits, or bot­ tom bouncers, or jigging,” says Jason, “but it might take you to detect the bites in those situations. As soon as you set the hook, hand them the rod. At the end of the trip, they don't remember you had anything to do with it. They tell their friends how many fish they caught.”

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ®

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Getting Kids Started: It’s About Them and Their Fishing!

By Mark Strand

Let 'em Bring To y s On a youngster's first fishing excursion, it's com­ mon for them to want to bring a gaming device or other toys. Rather than separating them from these security blankets, Jason urges adults to “not ban toys right off the bat.” From his guiding experience, Jason has seen that it almost always works better to let kids bring toys, and play with them. “I don't think it's a big deal if they want to bring some toys from home,” he says, “if it eases the transition between living room and the outdoors. A lot of times, the Game Boy is in the glove box by the end of the day, and they aren't paying attention to it anymore.”

Let 'em Keep Some Fish Some kids naturally want to let every fish go, some kids want to keep 'em all, and some kids want to keep one or two.

As long as the fish are of legal size and limits are adhered to, “I think kids should be able to keep some fish,” says Jason, “and we shouldn't judge the kids for which fish they choose to keep. If they spend the rest of the day with the livewell open, looking at the fish, and then we fillet them and eat them, that's all good stuff.”

Let Friends Come A l o n g While he feels that initial outings are best handled one-on-one, after kids have a good introduction to fish­ ing, bringing a friend or two can help kids have fun on the water.

“Especially once they get a little older,” says Mitchell, “maybe fourth or fifth grade, let some friends come along. Then it's really cool. They love to do things with their friends. It's a good way to get their friends out­ side, too. Maybe all of them will like fishing, and it will become something they do together for many years.”

Mentors are t h e True Key Jason, who is also a volunteer instructor for the non­ profit School of Outdoor Sports, believes that the key to developing lifelong anglers is to provide them with qual­ ity mentoring.

“Teaching kids to fish requires a commitment of time from people who are willing to put their own fishing on hold,” he says. “You have to get kids on the water sever­ al times before they can get a feel for it, have some suc­ cess, get that feeling of accomplishment that makes fish­ ing so important and special.

Attentive mentoring creates chances for youngsters to catch fish, and become attached to the sport, says guide and television host Jason Mitchell. Here, Oliver of Indianapolis is proud of his very first fish -- what a great feeling! Photo provided.

“It's so important that they catch something. Those are the life-changing events. If they catch fish, that's what they associate fishing with, rather than being cold or hot or getting sunburned. It comes down to you taking one kid to your best spot and letting them catch-or at least reel in-all the fish. If everybody did that once a year, we'd have a lot more new anglers.”

Jason Mitchell's time on the water is difficult to match.

He earned a renown reputation as a guide on Nort h Dakota's Devils Lake and now hosts Jason Mitchell Outdoors television, airing 9 a.m. Sundays on Fox Sport s North and Fox Sports Midwest. www.jasonmitchelloutdoors.com. For more tips on mentoring kids in the outdoors, go to www.learnoutdoorsports.org .

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INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ®

SHOOTING Fast, accurate, point & shoot range finding scope systems designed specifi­ cally for today's shotgun & muzzleloader hunters are now available from Fort Wayne-based Hawke Sport Optics.

The DeerPass Series of scopes are one more example of how Hawke Sport Optics is technically advancing the world of hunt­ ing optics. Designed by respected North American hunting engineers, extensive research and field-testing produced a sim­ ple range finding scope system that would function quickly and accurately for all experience levels of shooters. An easy to use precision aiming tool for taking all types of North American game was the result.

Consistent with Hawke's high quality standards, reliability is to be expected.

And best of all, these scopes are available at a surprisingly affordable price.

Once the setup and sighting-in proce­ dure is completed, the shooter simply brackets the target by placing the appro­ priate predetermined measurement bracket on a known size area of the target and you're ready to shoot (40” chest to tail, 12” nose to ear, 2” white circle around eye for deer).

Based on standard Foster Slug and Sabot Slug ballistics, the scope's range finding reticles effectively compensate for bullet/slug trajectory and drop. With built in 50, 100, 150, and 200 yard aim-points, the result is a quick, clear and accurate kill shot.

Detailed set-up directions are included with the accompanying instruction manu­ al, and Hawke's technical support help line is available for helping out with questions and specific instructions if necessary.

All DeerPass scopes are covered by the Hawke Worldwide Warranty. They're waterproof, shock proof, fog proof, fully rated and recoil tested using the most pun­ ishing guns available on the market.

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June, 2011 Edition

Rangefinding Scopes Introduced for Slug Guns and Muzzleloaders Hawke® DeerPass SR Series: 3-9x40 IR EV SR

Proper Bench Rest Technique. . .

The SR version features a glass etched reticle with 6 red or green illuminated aim­ ing points. Illumination is operated by a side rheostat positioned on the saddle and powered by a single CR2032 bat­ tery.

Shooting a slug gun in a hunting situation or at the range is very differ­ ent than shooting a rifle, primarily because the projectile is so much heav­ ier and slower. You’ve installed your Hawke DeerPass scope and are ready to sight in your slug gun. Follow these basic rules when shooting off the bench:

Hawke® DeerPass MAP Series:

3-9x40 MAP

Both MAP versions feature a range finding point and shoot, easy to use reticle system to ensure every shot is a guaranteed hit. EV (Extreme View) Optical System (3­ 9x40 IR EV SR & 3-9x40 EV MAP): Newly developed EV optical systems pro­ vide an additional 20% field of view over standard rifle & shotgun scopes, without increasing the size of the scope itself.

This new feature allows for a much clearer, quicker and easier target acquisition.

Free BRC Software:

3-9x40 EV MAP

All of the DeerPass® Series scopes are fully supported by the Hawke BRC (Ballistic Reticle Calculator) software.

Designed by the best ballistic engineers in the world, the science is done for you and it's really easy to use. Applicable to all rifle calibers, it's available FREE for everyone, simply download it from the Hawke web site. Take advantage of the eas­ iest and most effective tool available for increasing your accuracy in the field.

For more information, go to www.hawkeoptics.com or call toll free 877-429-5347

1) Shoot from a solid bench with some form of front and rear rest.

2) Don’t lean into the bench.

Strive to keep your body upright.

3) Settle into the rest and pull the gun firmly back into your shoulder.

4) Don’t allow sling studs to hit the bags or interfere with the gun’s recoil.

5) Adjust your rest to bring your sight picture on target.

6) While pulling gun firmly back into your shoulder, grasp forend and hold it down into the front rest while applying slight counterclock­ wise torque. Maintain rearward pull into shoulder and downward pull and counterclockwise torque on forend.

7) Settle on point of aim and gently squeeze trigger until the gun fires.

8) Repeat process maintaining the same form and point of aim.

June, 2011 Edition

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ®

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Modern Kayaks for Fishing Fun

The Last Thought MIKESCHOONVELD If it floats and you can make it move with a paddle, I’ve pad­ dled it. I’ve paddled rafts made of scrap lumber. I’ve paddled canoes, rowboats, duck boats and kayaks. I once paddled a fuel oil barrel across a fairly large pond.

Most of the time I was paddling to get to the fish or to a spot I planned hunt.

These days, it’s called “pad­ dle sports” and people are doing it strictly for the enjoyment, the exercise and a way to get away.

Good for them. I’ll continue to

Hobie's fishing kayaks work because they turn a paddle boat into a "peddle" boat. Photo provided.

paddle to good fishing and hunt­ ing locations.

Long ago and far away a friend invited me to hop aboard a sea kayak he’d bought for his kids. I told him, “I only go out on boats rigged for fishing.”

Later, instead of heading to where his fishing boat was stored, we detoured to a spot where his kayak was stowed along the shoreline. “Take a look,” Bob said, “It’s customized just for you.”

A fishing rod holder was securely bolted ahead of the cock­ pit and Bob said, “There’s a fish­ ing rod and box of lures inside.”

That’s was my introduction to kayaks and kayak fishing.

I quickly learned that com­ pared to a canoe, rowboat or oil drum, paddling a kayak was near­ ly effortless–even when trolling a lure. Small wonder modern, plastic kayaks have quickly dis­ placed both canoes and rowboats as the “human-powered” boat of choice across America.

Bob’s sea kayak was closely modeled after the bone and skin boats used by native hunters in North America’s Subarctic region.

The seat was the boat’s bottom and a skirt attached to the rim of the cockpit and belted around my waist prevented water from slosh­ ing into the boat. The kayaks I’ve used since, are open models you

sit on, rather than in.

They sit a little higher in the water and if any water ships aboard, it simply washes away through drain holes in the floor.

The seat, mounted a few inches above the floor keeps your bot­ tom side dry. Despite the holes, the kayaks are unsinkable. You can only do that with modern con­ struction, not with whalebone and seal skins.

Though I actually caught a fish on my first kayak excursion, it would be a stretch to label most kayaks as ideal for fishing.

Though kayaks are easy to paddle to the best fishing hole on the lake, once you get there, you have to stow the long, double ended paddle and unstow your fishing rod and gear to actually fish. You don’t have the freedom of movement allowed in a row­ boat or even a canoe. All of what you need has to be within arm’s reach and when you don’t need it, it’s still in arm’s reach–and prob­ ably in the way.

Except in a line of boats pro­ duced by Hobie kayaks designed exclusively for fishing.

Hobie solved the major prob­

Kayaks have become America's most popular paddle-craft and Hobie has turned them into fish-worthy tools. Josh Lantz photo.

lem first, changing the kayak from a paddle boat to a peddle boat. Called the Mirage Drive, a set of fins which look similar to penguin wings, protrudes through the hull and under the boat and when activated by foot peddles, the flippers propel the boat for­ ward at surprising speeds with minimal effort.

With both hands free, and without the double-ended paddle cluttering the area, fishing is fun, easy and productive. I test-floated a Hobie Pro Angler model at a recent trip to Lake Barkley in Kentucky. I was easily able to

position myself for casting bass lures, I vertical jigged for crap­ pies over some stake beds and just to go for a ride, I trolled along a rip-rapped causeway for over a mile with very little effort.

I probably wouldn’t have gone so far other than the white bass adding an occasional dash of interest.

The Hobie Pro Angler is equipped with rod storage, equip­ ment lockers and can be set up with all manner of fishing acces­ sories from anchors to electron­ ics. Check them out at www. hobiecat.com/fishing.