Indiana Outdoor News May 2015

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VOL. 2015 • No. 5

INSIDE:

TURKEY TALES PAGES 3 & 7

OUTDOOR NEWS PAGES 4-5

WHITETAILS PAGE 6

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HUNTERS HARVEST 120,073 DEER DURING 2014 SEASON ION STAFF REPORT -- Indiana hunters harvested 120,073 deer in the 2014 season, according to data released late last month by the Department of Natural Resources.

Although it was a decrease from the previous two years, DNR officials say the outcome is by design and reflects the agency’s goals to reduce the overall deer population.

“Several years ago, we modified our management strategy to focus deer herd reduction in a strategically targeted manner to more adequately balance ecological, recreational and economic needs of Indiana citizens,” said Mitch Marcus, chief wildlife biologist for the DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife. “We are no longer managing for a stable to increasing deer herd, so the declines in harvest are expected.”

The 2014 total dropped 4.4 from 2013 and 11.9 percent since the all-time record harvest of 136,248 deer in 2012.

To view the full report, go to www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/ and locate “2014 Deer Report” in the Hunting & Trapping panel.

The 2014 season was composed of three statewide segments – archery (Oct. 1 to Jan. 4, 2015), firearms (Nov. 15-30), and muzzleloader (Dec. 7-21). A late antlerless season was also available from Dec. 6 to Jan. 4, 2015 in 63 coun-

ties. Additionally, licensed youth age 17 or younger were eligible to participate in a two-day season in late September, and designated urban zones allowed archery or crossbow hunting from Sept. 15 through Jan. 31, 2015.

As is typical, the firearms season was the most productive, accounting for 67,989 deer or 57 percent of the total. The archery season accounted for 34,600 deer (29 percent), followed by muzzleloader (10,825; 9 percent), late antlerless (4,171; 3 percent), and youth (2,488; 2 percent). The archery season total includes the urban zone harvest.

Harrison County was the top producer for the second straight season with a total of 3,054 deer harvested. It was the only county to top 3,000 deer taken.

The top counties in 2014 after Harrison were Washington (2,794), Switzerland (2,721), Franklin (2,620), Noble (2,615), Steuben (2,536), Dearborn (2,534), Parke (2,379), Kosciusko (2,333), and Jefferson (2,258).

Harvest exceeded 1,000 deer in 58 counties and 2,000 deer in 16 counties.

Benton had the fewest deer reported with just 88, followed by Tipton with 121.

Despite the overall decline, four counties set unofficial records in 2014 – Decatur (832), Fayette

DNR STUDIES WALLEYE MORTALITY ON MONROE LAKE

PANFISH PAGES 8 & 12

GADGETS & GEAR PAGE 11

THE LAST THOUGHT PAGE 14

MAY, 2015

DNR REPORT - DNR biologists are tagging walleyes on Monroe Lake to study fishing mortality for the species.

During the last couple of weeks, biologists have used electrofishing to catch walleyes for tagging.

“So far we have tagged 78 walleyes with an overall goal of tagging at least 200 over the next couple of weeks,” said Sandy ClarkKolaks, Indiana DNR southern region fisheries research biologist.

The majority of those caught were male fish and ranged in length from 19 to 27 inches. Walleyes will be tagged with either a single or double plastic spaghetti tag near the dorsal fin.

Anglers who catch a tagged walleye should remove the tag with a knife or scissors and return the tag to the DNR. The study will help biologists understand how many walleyes anglers harvest from Monroe Lake and when.

“Information from studies from like these help us with modeling of different length-limit scenarios,” Clark-Kolaks said.

Tags can be returned through tag return envelopes available at boat ramps, boat ramp gate houses, the Paynetown DNR office or the DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife field office in Bloomington.

On the envelopes are questions about name and address, the tag(s) number, and whether you harvested the fish. Tag envelopes can be returned to any location where they were obtained.

Please only include tag(s) from one fish per envelope. Tags also can be mailed to the DNR Bloomington Field Office, 5596 E. State Road 46, Bloomington, IN 47401, with the above information included.

For more information, visit wildlife.IN.gov/3279.htm or email ClarkKolaks at sclark-kolaks@dnr.IN.gov.

Despite the overall decline in deer harvest numbers, Decatur, Fayette, Floyd and Hancock Counties set unofficial harvest records in 2014. Josh Lantz photo.

(1,052), Floyd (821), and Hancock (339).

Hunters had three options to report their harvest – traditional inperson check stations, online, or by phone. For the first time since the online CheckIN Game program began in 2012, more deer were

reported online or by phone (66,309) than at physical check stations (54,034).

Hunters have harvested approximately 3.38 million deer in Indiana since the modern era of regulated deer hunting seasons began in 1951.

TROUT FISHING GOOD AT POTATO CREEK Indiana’s inland trout season opened on April 25, and Northern Indiana trout hot spots include North Liberty Town Park and Potato Creek State Park. Together, those two spots received 700 fish this season, according to Jamie Pejza, DNR assistant fisheries biologist.

“Potato Creek is one of our best rainbow trout locations” Pejza said.

North Liberty Town Park offers convenient creek-side access and other amenities. This is the second year trout have been stocked there, and many anglers had good results there last year.

Trout anglers can also take a short walk through the woods in Potato Creek State Park, where fish are stocked in the creek along the paved bicycle trail.

Hatchery trout are not particular when it comes to bait. In previous years anglers have caught trout using spinner baits, dough balls, worms and corn. The daily limit for rainbow trout is five fish measuring at least 7 inches in length.

Additional information on Indiana trout fishing regulations and stocking sites is at dnr.IN.gov/fishwild/3622.htm.

COMPLIMENTS OF:

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INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2015©

May 2015

May 2015

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS Ž 2015Š

Page 3

So, this is what it’s all about

JOSHLANTZ I’ve shared my views in print on many outdoors issues over the past twenty years, but none quite so passionately as my beliefs about the importance of getting kids out in the field to experience nature and learn about wildlife conservation firsthand. Spending time in the outdoors with friends and family is what it’s all about, right?

When it comes to initiating our own kids to the outdoors activities we love, fishing is relatively easy, as opportunities are more numerous and preparation less intensive. All you need to take kids fishing is a little bit of gear and

some patience. My kids and I have shared many fishing trips together.

It’s something we do regularly, and I’m thankful to have an activity we can do together that all of us enjoy.

I’ve learned over the past couple years, however, that hunting is quite a different matter.

When my oldest child, Emma, turned ten, we had a conversation about taking a hunter education course. That was two years ago.

She had already accompanied me on a number of deer hunts, and I explained that if she ever wanted to hunt herself, she’d need to take and pass the course.

When the opportunity presented itself, both of us signed up for a DNR-approved course at the Hammond Cabela’s store. We spent a few hours receiving classroom instruction before taking the exam at the end of the day. We both had fun, and Emma learned the basics of what she needed to know about handling and using a firearm safely in the field.

Upon passing the exam, hunter education cads were signed and laminated and set aside for

Smaller shooters have challenges shouldering and steadying even a junior model firearm. After seeing what an effective tool the Caldwell DeadShot Field Pod was for Emma, I’ve started turkey hunting with it myself. Photo by Kristen Monroe.

safekeeping. I never pushed her to go hunting or shooting. I figured she’d ask when she was ready.

This was the year.

Now 12, Emma was ready to go turkey hunting, and we’d received an invitation from friends to hunt their Marshall County property during the Youth Turkey Season. Emma, my son Jack (8), and girlfriend Kristen would experience Emma’s first hunt together.

While pulling together decoys, calls, and my kids’ hunting clothes and boots at my storage unit, I came across a Caldwell DeadShot Field Pod -- still in the box -- I had won at an outdoor writer’s auction. I thought it might come in handy, so I loaded it into the truck with the other gear.

We arrived at the farm the afternoon before opening morning, and it was time to shoot the junior model .20 gauge Remington 1100 Sportsman we had borrowed from Emma’s mom.

Emma had shot air guns and a .22, but never a shotgun. Like many inexperienced shooters, she was worried about recoil. I was worried about her ability to sight down the barrel and hold the gun steady, but I had a plan.

Emma shot only two shells that afternoon. After setting up the DeadShot Field Pod and placing a Birchwood Casey Pregame Turkey Target out at 25 yards, I positioned Emma behind the pod and helped her shoulder the gun and see what it was like moving the gun around on the pod while sighting down the barrel. Most inexperienced turkey hunters miss because they have a tendency to lift their heads instead of staying down on the sights.

After she had gained some confidence, we loaded the gun with a shell and Kristen showed Emma how easy it was to “kill� the target by aiming at the base of the turkey’s neck. This also gave Emma the opportunity to hear the sound the gun made when it fired.

Now it was Emma’s turn. I made sure the butt stock was

For the auther, “That’s what it’s all about� means learning that the first hunt with his daughter was much more than a few hours in the blind or a weekend together. It represents an ongoing journey with a series of rewarding destinations. Photo by Kristen Monroe. pressed firmly into her shoulder, and she confirmed that she didn’t see any of the top of the rib of the barrel and that the front bead was on the base of the target’s neck.

She squeezed the trigger and sprayed a load of no. 5 shot over the target’s vitals. While the gun surprised her, she was all smiles, and I was satisfied by the look of confidence on her face. After inspecting her target and explaining that any of the red dots on the target would have killed the turkey, I asked if she wanted to shoot again. Of course, she did, and the results were equally impressive.

We went to bed, both satisfied that she would be ready to hunt in the

morning.

We reached our blind before sunrise and set out our decoys. The four of us enjoyed what, for me, is the best part of hunting: coffee, snacks and companionship while the woods comes alive with the breaking day. As the daylight grew, Jack spotted an owl out the back window of the blind, and we listened as the turkeys began their morning tree talk.

The birds weren’t close enough to hear or see pitch down, but despite my calling, they didn’t come our way. Later in the morning, we enjoyed watching birds in

Continued On Page 5

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INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2015©

FEES CHANGING AT STATE PARKS AND FORESTS Entrance and recreation fees at Indiana state parks and state forests will change in 2015 in response to increasing operating costs.

Entrance to most state parks and three state forest recreation areas will increase from $5 per in-state vehicle to $7. DNR officials, however, said visiting a state park or forest is still a great value and that the experiences and activities available are well worth the price of admission.

“Indiana’s state parks and state forests are places where memories are made,” DNR Director Cameron Clark said. “A family of four can still hike, swim and enjoy nature exhibits and programs for less than the cost of dinner or a movie.”

Indiana’s state properties also play an important economic role in nearby communities. They provide jobs and serve as partners in local and regional tourism activities. They are also destinations for exercise, including walking, running, biking, and swimming.

Many activities, from guided hikes to bicycling to children’s crafts, are free after paying the gate fee.

The fee overhaul, the first since 2006, will allow state parks and forests to maintain the services that visitors expect. Revenue generated from the fee increases will support staffing and the purchasing of supplies and equipment.

The entrance fee changes affect all state parks and three state forest properties that have entrance gates — Ferdinand State Forest, Starve-Hollow State Recreation Area in Jackson-Washington State Forest, and Deam Lake State Recreation Area in Clark State Forest.

Among the other key fee changes are: • Out-of-state admission at most properties will increase from $7 to $9 per carload.

• At Prophetstown State Park, in-state admission will increase from $5 to $8 per carload and out-of-state admission will increase from $7 to $10 per carload.

• Out-of-State admission at Indiana Dunes State Park will increase from $10 to 12.

• A $4 increase in most camping sites and a $2 increase in rooms at state park inns.

• A $2 increase for state forest primitive camping.

• Annual passes will increase from $40 to $50.

• An annual motorized boat launch permit will increase from $22 to $25.

These changes become effective May 13. Other fee increases for state parks and state forests will take effect July 1 or Nov. 1, pending approval by the Natural Resources Commission.

A list of all the fee changes for 2015 and responses to frequently asked questions are at stateparks.IN.gov/2391.htm.

All existing reservations for camping and inns made prior to May 13 will be honored at the current rates, as will already-purchased annual passes and boat launch permits and other recreational permits.

Questions about the fee increase can be sent to INParkForestFees@dnr.IN.gov.

Since the state parks system began in 1916, it has operated under a funding structure in which its users pay for most its costs. User fees pay about 70 percent of state park operational costs. Appropriations from the State’s General Fund pay the rest. That 30 percent equates to about $1.39 per Hoosier in taxes each year.

The public can save money before the changes go into effect by: • Visiting a park for free this Saturday, May 9, Free Entrance Day. • Buying an annual pass or boat permit or making camping and inn reservations before May 13, when the new entrance and camping fees go into effect.

• Buying a “SPRGo Pack.” SPRGo Pack rates will not change until the end of August. The pack includes an annual pass, gift cards, and choice of boat permit or horse tag. Packs are available at stateparks.IN.gov/7313.htm.

Visit indianainns.com for information on specials and discounts, and follow Indiana State Parks on Facebook for special promotional codes, drawings for inn or camping gift cards.

FIRST EVER EAGLE HATCH AT POTATO CREEK SP Kristen Monroe Photo.

DNR REPORT -- Persistence has paid off for bald eagles at Potato Creek State Park. This spring is the fourth consecutive year a bald eagle pair has nested at Potato Creek and the first that eagles have produced offspring, hatching three eaglets in a remote area.

Within a few days, the view of the nest will be blocked by leaves. But park visitors can look for the eagles over Worster Lake as the birds catch fish for their young. The best places to watch are the fishing pier by the Porter Rea Cemetery and the East Boat Launch.

The chicks should be ready to fly by late June.

This fall they will disperse and wander around North America for four years. When they are 4-5 years old, they will return to the area where they hatched to find a mate and nest.

The pair that hatched the eaglets this year is likely the same pair that nested unsuccessfully the three previous years. But there is no way for park officials to be certain.

In 2012 and 2013, bald eagles enhanced an osprey nest by adding sticks and were observed mating. However, they left when the ospreys returned and did not have young. In 2014, eagles built their own nest in the park’s southwest corner, but again did not produce any young.

Potato Creek also has four nesting pairs of ospreys again this year, the highest concentration of any area in Indiana. Nesting osprey pairs are outnumbered by nesting eagles by a ratio of about 4-to-1 in Indiana.

Adult bald eagles can be distinguished from osprey by their white tail and white head. Ospreys have a brown stripe through their eye and a dark tail.

Visitors are encouraged to view the bald eagles and all wildlife from a distance.

Potato Creek State Park (stateparks.IN.gov/2972.htm) is at 25601 State Road 4, North Liberty, 46554.

May 2015

WALLEYE FISHING REMAINS GOOD AT SYLVAN LAKE A reduction in the number of walleyes stocked by DNR officials at Sylvan Lake in recent years has had little effect on the high quality of walleye fishing.

The 669-acre impoundment in Noble County remains one of the hottest walleye fishing spots in northern Indiana. According to DNR estimates, anglers caught 3,100 walleyes there last summer. Early catches this year are on track to match that figure.

Fishermen took home 550 legal-size walleyes (14 inches or larger) last year. The number was 40 fish shy of the harvest in 2007.

The DNR has stocked walleyes at Sylvan Lake each year since 2001. More than 100,000 walleye fingerlings were released through 2008 and 50,000 have been stocked since 2008.

The fish are purchased from a commercial hatchery in Wisconsin and measure 6-8 inches long when stocked. Because they are larger than walleyes typically stocked in Indiana lakes, their survival has been much better.

“Our initial goal was to flood the lake with walleyes,” said Jed Pearson, DNR biologist. “After that, we felt we could back off.”

Despite the 50 percent reduction in stocking rate, walleye numbers remain high.

Last fall, Pearson and his crew captured 60 walleyes per hour during sampling with an electrofishing boat. The catch rate was one of the highest in the state.

Walleyes that are no longer stocked in Sylvan Lake have been transferred to Clear Lake in Steuben County and Lake Maxinkuckee in Marshall County.

According to Pearson, anglers fished 39,000 total hours last year at Sylvan Lake, including 4,000 hours for walleyes. Anglers who specifically targeted walleyes caught them at the rate of one walleye per three hours of fishing.

The average harvested walleye measured 16 inches long but several longer than 22 inches were taken.

When anglers were asked to rate walleye fishing at Sylvan Lake, two-thirds described it as “good.”

Pearson said walleyes can be found throughout the lake, but seem concentrated in areas along the dam, near Boy Scout Island, and in Pit Basin. Anglers also routinely catch walleyes in the spillway below the dam.

DNR RELEASES NEW MOBILE APP FOR APPLE, ANDROID DEVICES The Department of Natural Resources has released a new version of its mobile application. The redesigned app is now available for both the Apple and Android platforms.

“The new app builds on the success of our previous iPhone application and adds new features,” DNR director Cameron Clark said. “It’s meant to be a portable field guide to information people frequently use off the main DNR website. We’re especially pleased that we can offer it at no cost to those who enjoy the Indiana outdoors.”

In addition to an interactive map that locates DNR properties and spots for camping, hunting and fishing, it also includes the most popular information from the dnr.IN.gov website, such as fishing and hunting seasons, camping fees and property rules.

Users also can access a calendar of events at DNR properties, the latest news releases, and contact information for Indiana Conservation Officers.

DNR partnered with the mobile technology group in the state’s Indiana Office of Technology to redesign the interface to appeal to a broader and younger audience.

“The opening menu is quite different from those normally found with other state natural resources applications,” said Scott Davis, DNR senior webmaster. “We really wanted to appeal to a younger audience to get them interested in the outdoors. We’ve incorporated a lot of user feedback into this version.”

The partnership with IOT provides a good framework to grow features, he said.

The application is available for free from Apple’s App Store and Google Play. Users of the existing Indiana DNR mobile app will simply need to upgrade through using the app store.

May 2015

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2015©

Page 5

A FISHING TRIP WITH ZONA COULD BE YOURS - WITH THE RIGHT PHOTO

CHANGE.ORG USERS SEEK TO BAN HUNTING PHOTOS FROM FACEBOOK

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Take a photo of your catch and submit it to the BoatUS “Catch of the Month” photo contest and you could find yourself in a fishing boat with rod, reel and none other than Mark Zona. The former pro angler, Bassmaster Elite Series TV personality and host of Zona’s Awesome Fishing Show will take the BoatUS contest’s grand prize winner to his favorite lake in Michigan. To get there, the winner will also get $1,000 in travel money – but you’ve got to send in a photo at BoatUS.com/catch.

Sam Martin (L) and Jacob Hopkins (R), The contest ends on October winners of last year’s BoatUS Catch of 31, 2015.

Each month, three of the Month photo contest. the best Catch of the Month photos will be chosen by BoatUS as contenders for the “Catch of the Year” contest, where Facebook voters will determine the grand prize winner for the trip with the Z-Train. “You can submit up to two entries each month to improve your chance of winning the grand prize,” said BoatUS Program Coordinator Dustin King. “It will be the trip of a lifetime as Mark is known for his overboard hospitality, outsized personality, and for having the biggest heart in the sport of bass fishing.”

Additionally, the “Catch of the Year” winner will receive a replica of their winning fish by FishReplicas.com, which offers the highest quality in fish replicas today. “The Pierce brothers and crew at FishReplicas.com are able to create the most life-like fish replicas money can buy,” added King.

These aren’t the only prizes.

Each month, three lucky winners will also receive a one-year BoatUS membership and a prize pack filled with LIVETARGET Lures, a quality manufacturer of fresh and saltwater lures using the very best raw materials, equipment and processes in today’s industry. Earning a premium reputation, every variable in the lure production process is considered from engineering to sonic welding and to the multi-layered hand painted finishes.

Winning photos will appear in the largest national boating magazine, BoatUS Magazine.

USSA REPORT -- Anti-hunters from across the globe have managed to garner almost 15,000 signatures in a petition that seeks to ban photos of hunters posing with their harvest from Facebook.

The petition, which was started over three months ago by change.org user Ollie Raison, has gained traction in recent days, mostly due to a series of posts floating around on the social media landscape.

Raison, who lives in London, United Kingdom, addresses hunters in the initial paragraph of his petition on change.org, saying that the document is not an anti-hunting statement because it doesn’t actually seek to end legal hunting activities.

“This is not an anti-hunting petition,” Raison says on change.org. “You have a legal right to hunt. What this petition is trying to achieve, is to have Facebook acknowledge that certain images are not suitable for social media. This includes glorifying hunting by posing for smiling photos with ‘trophies’.”

In other words, Raison wishes to see Facebook, the largest social media network in the world with 1.3 billion active users, exclusively and subjectively sensor hunters by prohibiting them from sharing post-harvest pictures celebrating their accomplishments.

“Humans have been sharing stories of the hunt through visual means since man first painted scenes on the walls of caves 40,000 years ago,” said USSA Digital Media Specialist Cam Pauli. “Sharing our success and passion for the outdoors is an integral part of who we are as a hunting community. Social platforms like Facebook allow us to celebrate the hunt with friends and family as people did thousands of years ago. The medium has changed, people haven’t.”

Pauli went on to say that he doesn’t believe Facebook will be censoring average hunters anytime soon.

“Facebook operates in a very grey area when it comes to the type of hunting photos they choose to remove from Facebook,” Pauli explained. “More often than not, Facebook only takes down photos when a large number of users report the content.”

Anti-hunters have taken advantage of this method and consistently use this strategy against targets, like they did with Melissa Bachman, Kendall Jones, and most recently, Rebecca Francis.

“Sportsmen can circumnavigate many of these

issues by simply posting tasteful images of their harvest to Facebook, and by adjusting their filter settings,” said Pauli. “If a friend or a Facebook user messages you about a photo, respond in calm fashion and ask them to unfollow or unfriend you. Should a situation escalate, you can always reach out to the people at U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance for more help or guidance.”

Not everyone has to agree with our hunting heritage and way of life, but that doesn’t mean we should allow ourselves to be censored due to the radical opinions of anti-hunters.

Continued From Page 3 the distance, but none were interested in our calling or decoys.

Things changed at about 8:30.

We heard some gobbling behind us and I was able to get the bird to respond to my cutting and yelps. Confident that the bird was coming, I scaled things back to some purrs and occasional soft yelps.

About ten minutes later, six jakes emerged from the woods just 15 yards from the right side of our blind.

“Nobody move,” I whispered.

We had a dozen of the keenest eyes in nature right outside our door.

Kristen and Jack remained dead still, while Emma and I repositioned her and her shooting pod for a right side shot when the birds disappeared between windows.

Emma was down on her gun with her finger on the safety when the birds reappeared just 12 yards out.

The safety clicked off. “Not yet,” I breathed. I softly reminded her that she needed to wait until she had a clear shot at a single bird.

There were too many, and they were too close together.

“Wait until you get one in the clear and he sticks his head up,” I said. “Then shoot him as soon as you are on him,” I advised. As soon as my words faded, the flock separated and the middle jake raised his head and peered at the blind. Emma did the rest.

The Remington roared and the turkey cartwheeled onto his back.

Emotion flooded all of us. Hugs, high-fives, tears and excited words filled the blind. When the remaining birds left, we exited the blind and brother Jack led the parade to the downed bird.

A solemn calm came over Emma, and I was touched and proud to see her kneel down to honor the animal she had just taken. I’d like to say I taught her that, but cannot. Above all else, it’s the one thing I’m sure I’ll always remember from her first hunt.

Some things need to be experienced firsthand to be fully appreciated and understood. After writing for so many years about taking

kids hunting -- even being there when other kids and adults who are close to me have taken their first turkey, or duck, or goose or deer -I wasn’t prepared for the feelings of fulfillment I experienced after my own child’s first successful hunt. Now, I know those feelings.

I can truly relate and appreciate when others experience them. Yes, this truly is what it’s all about. I am grateful.

Young Caleb Miller took this turkey during the Youth Season in Floyd County. The big tom weighed 25 pounds and had an 11-inch beard.

Congratulations, Caleb! Photo provided.

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INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS Ž 2015Š

A Furry Crown: What is Velvet?

SHED HUNTING Antlers. They have fascinated man since the beginning. Going back thousands of years, one can see man's love for animals with antlers etched and painted on the walls of caves. Antlers were a trophy in a different way before they were used to decorate walls of our hunting camps and game rooms.

Before modern civilization, antlers were used to make tools, ceremonial wear, and weapons just to name a few. So how do these intriguing bones grow? What are they made out of? How do they go from this soft looking, furry velvet, to a durable set of rock hard fighting gear?

Antler genesis is an amazing process and is one of the fastest growing tissues known. The antler growing process for whitetails is an annual event and is regulated by hormones which are controlled by the photoperiod or length of day.

The primary hormones responsible for antler growth are testosterone and IGF (insulin like growth factor). The rise and fall of testosterone levels initiates the peeling off of the velvet and the casting or shedding of the antlers, while IGF that is produced in the liver promotes actual growth. The longer days correspond with a drop in melatonin production; this kicks off the hormone cycle for antler growth. You can get very scientific and complicated with all the glands and organs involved in this process, but basically a buck's brain measures the length of day by the amount of melatonin produced.

This in turn influences testosterone and IGF levels. If you have ever noticed the bucks that are late in the velvet shedding process are often the yearling bucks and older bucks that have survived and are

past their prime. This is directly related to the lower levels of testosterone output.

To fully understand antler, and more specifically, velvet antler growth, we need to start at the beginning. In a whitetail's case, the beginning would be the pedicel.

The pedicel is the base from where the antlers will form and are located on the frontal bone of the skull.

Buttons begin to grow from the pedicels somewhere around 6 months of age in male whitetails.

During the growing season (spring& summer) a whitetails antlers are covered in a very fine and soft membrane most commonly called velvet. Underneath this furry membrane, the antlers are supplied by a very rich supply of blood and nutrients by veins that run on the outside of the antlers and back down to the base.

During the growing stages, antlers are high in water and blood content and low in dry matter. The dry matter at this stage is around 80% protein and 20% phosphorous and calcium. Conversely, in the hardened stage, antlers are about 60% phosphorous and calcium and 40% protein.

While in the velvet stages, antlers feel alive and warm to the touch because of all the activity taking place inside. I was lucky enough to feel this first hand while helping raise whitetails for a couple years.

When antlers are in velvet, they are very vulnerable to being injured. Bucks seem to be very aware that they have this fragile treasure on their head and are very careful in their actions through antler genesis. Bruises, cuts, or tears to the velvet can all have an impact on the formation of the

antler. These injuries often result in abnormal points or, in serious injuries, complete deformation.

It is worth noting that leg and pedicel injuries can also lead to deformed antlers. Vehicle collisions, bullet or arrow wounds, and fighting injuries to the legs, shoulders, or hind quarters can be seen sometimes in the following season's antler growth by abnormal points or deformed main beams.

Injuries on the rear legs affect the opposite side antler, where front leg or shoulder injuries will affect the same side. Research shows this oddity may be from the buck's ability to pull or redirect nutrients for healing the injured leg. Pedicel injuries can happen during the numerous fights during the rut causing part of the pedicel to shed with the antler. If the pedicel injuries are bad enough, they can sometimes affect antler growth for several years.

When the days grow shorter in late summerof late summer, testosterone levels begin to rise and the growth cycle begins to slow down, initiating the process of hardening or mineralizing of the antlers.

So how does the velvet come off? The velvet ceases to be fed by blood by the formation of what some call the base or the burr on the antler. When the buck grows this burr at the end of the antler cycle, it puts a "kink in the hose" so to speak, cutting off the blood supply to the velvet. In as little as a few hours, the drying velvet is rubbed off on trees and bushes, and the buck is left with a blood stained rack that he will continue to polish for several days. I think many early fall rubs that are seen are areas where bucks use sapling trees and bushes to scrub the drying velvet

May 2015

By Austin Delano

from their newly hardened set of headgear.

There are rare cases where a buck does not shed his antlers, and instead keeps a velvet covered rack that continually grows throughout the year. The condition is referred to as cryptorchidism. These "cactus bucks" result from an injury or castration of the testes at some point which alters their testosterone levels. The age at which the injury occurs will determine the severity of antler deformation or interruption in the normal antler cycle.

Fawns that are castrated will likely not develop a pedicel and therefore never grow any antlers. An older aged buck that has a testes injury or castration while he is in hard antler

will likely shed his antlers early due to the sharp decrease in testosterone production. The following season the buck can grow a rack that is permanent and stays velvet covered and growing.

The antler growing process is very interesting and one of the most unique cycles in the animal kingdom. Whether it be whitetail, mule deer, moose or elk, antlers are a large part of hunter’s fascination with these big game animals.

Would you like to learn more about improving your hunting and get discounts on the products you need? Learn from the experts by joining the new Mossy Oak GameKeepers Club at www.gamekeepersclub.com.

May 2015

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS Ž 2015Š

Page 7

Developing new hunters highlights season

BRANDONBUTLER It takes time and experience to grasp the old adage, “It's better to give than receive.� Our parents try to convince us of this concept while we are young, but all we can think about is tearing open the next present. Yet, once the joys and benefits of giving are felt, it is hard to ignore the truth behind the lesson.

My turkey season has been a rollercoaster. It started with the completion of a dream trip to the Yucatan, where I killed a coveted ocellated turkey. During youth season, I guided my nephew to a gobbler on his first hunt. It was a storybook experience.

Opening day was real windy. I heard a bird gobbling in a woodlot across the property I was hunting.

It sounded like he was on the opposite side of the woods from me, so I started to sneak down an open logging road to close the distance.

Turns out, the bird I thought was 400 yards away was only 200 yards away. I bumped him off the roost.

It was a rookie mistake.

A couple of days later, I set up on a bird gobbling furiously on the roost. This time I made sure to leave enough space between us.

After an intense 20 minutes of firing him up, I watched as he pitched down with at least a half-dozen hens. I knew it would be tough to lure him away from the ladies. I decided to move so I could cut him off as he made his way up a draw.

As I was slowly making my way into position, calling every few minutes to ensure his location, my confidence grew. The plan was really coming together. Then, BOOM, a shotgun blast exploded a mere 50 yards from me. Another hunter had set up in the draw and the bird was his.

After such a great start to my season, now things weren't going so well. I decided it was time to change things up. A few months ago, a business acquaintance, Mark, came to me and said, “I am really concerned with where my food comes, and I think I would like to start hunting, but I don't even know where to begin.�

I told Mark if he would pass a hunter education course and buy a hunting license, then I would take him turkey hunting this spring. He did what I asked, so I kept my

This month’s puzzle on Page 13

promise. I took him on his first turkey hunt.

Birds were gobbling all around us as the sun began to creep above the eastern horizon. I thought the deal was going to come together right off the bat, but it didn't. We moved quite a bit throughout the day and at one point had a coyote stalk to within 20 yards of us. Mark had never seen a coyote in the wild before. It was exciting for him. Mark identified a number of bird species by sight and sound, and I found his hunting skills to be far superior than I expected. He attributed his ability to sit still to being an avid bird watcher. I was impressed.

Mark didn't end up shooting a turkey, but he did learn a lot about hunting. He learned how challenging it is and how rewarding a day afield can be without pulling the trigger. He's capable now of going on his own and pursing a hunting lifestyle, and he has expressed to me that he plans to do so.

This time of year, it's hard for me to escape the question, “How's your season going?� Answering is easy. It's going great, even though I am still holding four turkey tags good in multiple states. Even if I don't punch any of them, I have played a significant role in helping

The author and his wife, Melissa, pose with his stunning ocellated turkey, taken last month on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Photo provided. two new hunters join our fold. I have felt the joy of giving the gift of the spring turkey woods. A

greater trophy does not exist in my book.

See you down the trail‌

Page 8

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2015©

PANFISH There was just a slight ripple on the water when we pulled the boat into one of Patoka Lake's many small coves. I had come to Patoka with my Dad, and we were hoping to catch a pile of southern Indiana crappies. After the boat was in position, I told Dad that we would try casting plastic twister grubs over a submerged grass bed in the hopes of tempting a slab crappie.

I opened one of my tackleboxes and started rummaging through it. I was searching for just the right color grub body for my jig. Dad watched as I scanned the brightly colored grubs and tried to decide which one would outsmart the resident crappies. Just about every color in the rainbow was represented, including a few outlandish ones: chartreuse, green, gold, orange, pink, yellow, white, purple, brown, pumpkinseed, and even various combinations of those colors. Oh yes, I almost forgot - I also had some bright blue grubs.

I handed Dad a black/blue grub with a chartreuse tail. It looked pretty good. I decided to try one of the bright blue grubs just to see if it would catch a fish. I had thought about trying a fluorescent chartreuse bait with silver flecks, or maybe a more muted color like gold/silver. But at the last minute I changed my mind and grabbed the neon-blue grub.

I threaded the ugly blue bait onto a jighead and thought: “What crappie in its right mind would eat a crazy-looking blue bait like this?” Although I had my doubts about my choice of lure colors, I thought it was possible that the

Patoka Lake’s Crappie Blues crappies would like it. I didn't tell Dad, but I secretly planned to change to a more normal color after a few casts.

We started fishing, and on my first cast I hooked a fish. I must say that I was surprised, but when I got it to the boat I saw that it was only a six-inch crappie. Sure, baby crappies can be fooled by a blue grub, but what about big ones?

Dad was next, and he landed a crappie with his blue/black grub with the chartreuse tail. I figured the bright tail attracted his fish.

I hooked another fish two or three casts later, and this one felt bigger. When I got it to the boat, I saw that it was a nice one. I swung it aboard and dropped it into the livewell, but I thought it was a fluke. After catching two more small crappies with the blue jig, I nonchalantly changed to a chartreuse grub.

Dad kept casting and soon he hooked a slab crappie. I grabbed the landing net and scooped a very nice crappie that looked like it would weigh at least one pound.

My chartreuse grub hadn't had a hit, so I changed to black/chartreuse.

We kept moving, trying different grass beds and other small coves. My black/chartreuse jig caught lots of small crappies and a couple of keepers, but it wasn't knocking their socks off. I pulled it off and put the blue grub back on.

Meanwhile, Dad had caught quite a few fish on his blue/black bait.

I hooked another solid crappie on the first cast after changing back to the infamous blue jig. We had moved to a new grass bed at

the mouth of a cove where a houseboat was moored, and I found a spot where there was a good group of crappies holding right above the tips of the grass in 15 feet of water.

Every time I tossed the blue jig out there and let it sink down to them, a crappie would inhale it.

Not all the crappies I was catching there were keepers, but the action was good and I was having fun. That blue jig was dynamite! Dad asked me what color I was using, and I told him that I had switched back to the blue one. He smiled and I knew exactly what he was thinking.

When the action slowed a bit we moved to a nearby island. I opened the grub box and decided to experiment with an orange grub.

After a few casts, I hooked a heavier fish. I thought it was going to be the biggest crappie of the day, but it turned out to be a 15-inch bass instead. It jumped three times, and the last time it cleared the water the hook popped out.

Several casts later I removed the orange bait and replaced it with my new favorite: the bright blue grub. Again, on the first cast, a nice crappie inhaled it and splashed its way to the side of the boat. Dad heard the splashing and asked: “What color jig do you have on now?” I answered that I was using my favorite - Old Blue.

Dad and I both laughed. I dropped the crappie into the livewell and made another cast. As soon as it ticked the top of the weeds, I felt another tap. I set the hook and reeled in another feisty crappie. “Old Blue does it again,” I said.

May 2015

By Tom Berg

The auther and his father, shown above, had an exciting day of crappie fishing on picturesque Patoka Lake. Tom Berg photo.

As the day wore on I only took the blue grub off one more time.

And that was to replace it with a fresh blue one when it got too ripped up to use any more!

Patoka Lake is located in southern Indiana in Orange, Dubois and Crawford counties. It is Indiana's second-largest lake, covering a total of 8,800 acres, and is certainly one of the most beautiful and scenic lakes in the state.

Wildlife abounds around the lake and bird-watchers come here from all over the Midwest. Bald eagles are seen here regularly and many

other bird species live here yearround.

If you are looking for great accommodations that are affordable and close to the water, call Patoka Lake Marina & Lodging at 888-819-6916. They can set you up with a full cabin or a deluxe room or suite. If you prefer to stay right on the water, you can also rent a luxury houseboat or one of their floating cabins. We stayed in one of the floating cabins and loved it. Call for a brochure or check for details online at www.patokalakemarina.com.

May 2015

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2015©

Page 9

Page 10

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2015©

Most of us will never see a true trophy white-tailed buck. Fewer yet will hang one on the wall. Why we hunters lust after huge antlers is something I’ll leave for the psychiatrists to explain.

Many of us plan entrance and exit strategies, pour over topographical maps, study satellite images, monitor wind currents, read magazines, buy books, plant food plots, improve habitat, watch TV shows, pick hunting clothing, choose firearms, blow out elbows practicing with bows, ponder which scents make sense, sit in swaying tree stands during wind, rain, and snow, all in hopes that Nimrod smiles upon us just once in a lifetime, and we see a trophy buck in our sights.

So, with all that effort behind what we do, it’s no wonder why we take exception when someone decides to cheat the system and poach a once-in-a-lifetime monster.

With smart phones and social media, a hunter who bags a trophy buck becomes an instant celebrity, and an instant suspect. A trophy buck can cause improper thoughts to drift through an honest hunter’s mind. But, a person who isn’t ethical in their day-to-day affairs has no qualms about being unethical in the woods.

BASS FISHING Indeed, umbrellas for fish; just not the kind of umbrella that first comes to mind.

What we are looking at here is the umbrella rig, Alabama Rig or “A”-Rig. In the last few years umbrella rigs have become one of the deadliest devices for big bass and other gamefish. It is not a lure, but a wire harness by which multiple lures can be delivered on a single cast; creating the illusion of a school of baitfish.

Actually umbrella rigs have been around for decades. Heavily-weighted umbrella rigs are trolled for salt water striped bass. The castable A-Rig came to national attention in 2011 when Elite Series bass pro, Paul Elias, of Mississippi used one to win a major bass tournament.

Let's take a closer look at these big bass rigs and what makes them so productive.

Description An umbrella rig has a number of wire arms that extend from a central head. On a five wire rig four wires spread out to the sides with equal spacing between each wire, much like the spokes of an umbrella. The fifth wire is usually longer than the other four and also extends straight back. Most anglers use a different, larger lure or a different color for this center wire than the others, giving larger predators a point of attack. The center lure, extending farther back than the others, looks vulnerable to a predator fish and usually attracts the strike. Each wire arm has a snap on the end to easily attach your lures.

Lure Options and Rigs Soft plastic paddletail swimbaits in the 3 to 5 inch sizes are popular lures for this illusion. Good choices include Berkley's Hollow Belly, Yum's Money Minnow and the Berkley Havoc Sick Fish. Another option would be curly-tail grubs from Berkley, Kalins or Mr. Twister.

Each of these lures is used with a 1/8- to 1/2-ounce jig head and attached to the rig via the snap swivels in each wire arm. Determine jig weight based upon the depth of water that you wish to cover.

Elias used the Alabama Rig from Mann's Bait Company to score his victory, but the choices in rigs seems endless.

The 3-wire and 5-wire YUMbrella Rigs from Pradco are also good options. Pradco also offers the YUMbrella Flash Mob Rig, adding four no. 4 counter-rotating willowleaf blades midway down each outer arm to

The Stolen Monster ALANGARBERS

Umbrellas For Fish?

produce flash and vibration and create the image of a bigger school of baitfish.

A great idea from Berkley is their Schooling Rig Kit, containing everything you need to start fishing. It has a 5-wire umbrella rig and comes with five Berkley Powerbait soft paddletail swimbaits and five jig heads, all in one neat package for a reasonable price.

Tackle and Storage Considerations Obviously with three or five lures with jig heads and the rig, it can be an awkward and heavy offering to cast. A “lob” would be better suited in this case.

Heavy-duty tackle is best considering the weight of the rig, the resistance of multiple lures on the retrieve and the fact that you may have a predator fish or two (hopefully) to bring in.

Yes, occasionally the rig may catch more than one fish on a single cast, especially when you hit upon a school and competition is fierce. A heavy, 71/2- to 8-foot casting rod with a long handle will provide casting leverage.

Couple this with a sturdy casting reel with plenty of torque and low-speed to minimize arm fatigue.

Most anglers choose a braided line in 30 to 65 lb. test like Spiderwire Stealth.

This is not a presentation for a “wimpy” outfit!

Storing these rigs with multiple wire arms can be a problem, but the folks at Plano have come up with a neat solution. Their Alabama Rig Box, no. 3708 can hold up to five rigs; keeping them tangle-free and easily accessible.

By Bill Takacs

Legal Issues Regulations on using umbrella rigs may differ in each state and on some lakes. This is why it is important to consult the rule book before fishing a different state or even a different body of water. Some states allow the 5 hook rigs while others only allow 3 lures with hooks in them. Some states permit only one hook per rig; others ban umbrella rigs completely.

Indiana allows hooks or lures on only three wire arms. Just use a threewire rig or “doctor up” a five-wire rig to be legal. You can use a five-wire rig with 5 lures with jig heads if you cut off the hook point on 2 of the baits and bend the remaining shank towards the head of the jig. Another option is to use two willowleaf spinner blades on two arms for added attraction. You can also use a Hitchhiker, a small wire clip that screws into the head of the plastic bait and attaches to the snap swivel at the end of the wire arm to eliminate hooks on two arms and be legal.

Umbrella rigs are versatile. The castable rigs were originally thought to be productive for suspending fish primarily. As the years have passed since Elias' tournament win, anglers have found them to be fish catchers on structure, in deep or shallow water near cover.

Bass fishing may have “introduced” the umbrella rigs to the masses, but they are not limited to only largemouth and smallmouth bass.

They are even being used successfully for freshwater striped bass, hybrid stripers, crappies and even muskies.

Give these exciting baits a try during your next fishing outing.

May 2015

In archery season of 2011 a cell phone photo of a trophy buck taken in Morgan County by Thad Baron** was being shared far and wide, and popped up on the cell phone of ICO Bryan Knoy. The ICO was instantly suspicious.

It is common among LEOs (Law Enforcement Officers) from different departments to share information and even assist in investigations and the apprehension of wrong doers.

This creates a network that allows an officer to know of a criminal long before ever meeting them in person.

ICOs know that a person who steals, sells drugs, or participates in other criminal activity, isn’t going to become an ethical hunter at the start of deer season. So, when someone with a questionable past poses with a trophy buck, red flags begin waving and bells start clanging. This was going to be a “teachable moment” for Knoy, as he was training new ICOs Markie Hoskins and Ryan Vanderlugt.

When Knoy received the photo, he and the new ICOs started digging. Their search led them to a farm and ranch store in Martinsville. It was there they found where Baron had checked his trophy buck. Knoy’s hunch was correct.

The time stated during the check-in process, 1pm – 2pm, didn’t match the period of day shown in the photo.

As the ICO team investigated further they found out Thad Baron had bought his license just hours before the time he claimed to have shot the deer. To make matters even more suspicious, the men shown in the photo with the deer were wearing clothing that was not consistent with the warm afternoon temperatures that existed the time the deer was allegedly killed.

Three weeks after the deer was shot, the ICOs paid a visit to Thad Baron’s home in Martinsville. In his statement, Thad Baron claimed he had purchased his archery license as he headed for his deer hunting spot for the first time that season. He had gained permission to hunt on the farm of a prominent and well-respected local business man.

After leaving his vehicle he had walked about fifteen minutes when the massive buck stepped out stepped out within bow range and stood still long enough for Baron to make the killing shot.

After shooting the deer, Baron enlisted the aid of family members to load the deer and take photos. The ICOs requested to see the additional cell phone pictures, but tragically the phone and its contents had been lost in the three weeks since killing the deer. However, Baron did show the ICOs the massive set of antlers, and the bow he allegedly used to shoot it. He also stated that the cape was with a local taxidermist to be tanned for a mount.

Nothing about the story eased the ICOs minds. ICO Hoskins sought and procured a search warrant for Thad Baron’s cell phone records. In the meantime, ICO Vanderlugt tracked down the caretaker of the property that Thad Baron had been hunting on. The caretaker told Vanderlugt that Thad Baron had called him the morning of November 5th and was excited about shooting a monster buck. Minutes after the phone call the caretaker received a photo of the buck, which he shared with family members.

The caretaker offered up his phone records. The phone call occured an hour before the time that Baron’s license had been purchased.

Not long after Vanderlugt’s interview with the caretaker, ICO Hoskins received the phone records from Baron’s cell phone provider. The records verified that Baron had made one call to the farm’s caretaker and sent an image.

More information was received by the ICOs. It was rumored that Baron had shot the monster buck with a rifle, not a bow as he had claimed. While believable, this was something they could never verify.

The ICOs went to the taxidermist Baron had taken the deer to. The taxidermist acknowledge that he had the hide for the deer but Baron had been insistent that the antlers remain in his possession, which was unusual. The taxidermist also told the ICOs that Baron wanted the mount done in time for the upcoming 2012 Indianapolis Boat, Sport and Travel Show, but that he never put down a deposit on the work to be done.

There was enough evidence to receive a search warrant for seizure of the antlers. However, when the ICO Vanderlugt again went to the house, Baron told him that he had sold his prize set of antlers to a man in Kentucky, but couldn’t remember a name. He also stated that he had sold the bow as well. A search of the home produced a hidden bow case, but nothing else. Baron told the ICO that he would grind the trophy antlers to dust before allowing him to take them.

Baron was cited for not having a deer license at the time of kill. The judge presiding over the case was sympathetic to the ICOs and stated that if the antlers were ever found, they were to be immediately seized.

The brush with the law apparently didn’t alter Thad Baron’s demeanor. Within a year he had been arrested and was serving time for dealing drugs in a nearby county. **Name changed

May 2015

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS Ž 2015Š

Page 11

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The war against wasted bait took a significant turn recently with the introduction of Frabill’s new AQUA LIFE Dual Output 110V High Capacity Aerator. Minnows, crayfish and crabs leftover in the livewell at the end of the day’s fishing earned a collective stay of execution — albeit temporarily — courtesy of affordable 110-volt Frabill AQUA LIFE aeration technology.

Now, any suitable bucket, tub or trough in the corner of the average angler’s garage can be transformed into posh, overnight accommodations for the friskiest of live baits. Put ‘em to bed tonight. Use ‘em tomorrow.

But what about the battle for bigger bait? Pike, muskie and saltwater anglers rejoice. Frabill’s new AQUA LIFE Dual Output 110V High Capacity Aerator provides twice the aeration capacity of the standard 110V AQUA LIFE to promote the preservation of larger livies like suckers, pilchards and pinfish.

The Frabill AQUA LIFE Dual Output 110V High Capacity Aerator delivers nearly 100% saturation of dissolved oxygen in up to 100 gallons of fresh or saltwater via dual pumps and two hard-working, high capacity, threeinch, weighted air stones. 10 feet of flexible air hose, a tconnector and two anti-siphon valves give users the flexibility to customize their bait maintenance set-ups in one, or two separate containers. Corrosion resistant hardware and plating on all AQUA LIFE Aerators ensures the bait saving devices will perform flawlessly in both fresh and saltwater environments. • • • • • • • •

Includes 10’ of flexible air hose, 2 each 3� weighted air stones, t-connector, 2 anti-siphon valves 6’ power cord Lightweight, proven design Dual pumps aerate up to 100 gallons in one or two separate containers or livewells Produces nearly 100% saturation of dissolved oxygen Corrosion resistant design for fresh or saltwater Rubber non-marking feet UL Approved

Large, live baits like suckers and shad are O2 intensive, not to mention expensive. Stop wasting your hardearned money. Set up shop with an AQUA LIFE Dual Output 110V High Capacity Aerator and start winning the battle of bigger bait. Learn more at www.frabill.com.

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With the introduction of the new Bow and Gear Hoist, HSS has addressed the issue of how to safely, silently and quickly get a bow or other gear into a treestand. The Bow and Gear Hoist is lightweight, easy-to-use and virtually tangle free, as there are no ropes or cords to contend with.

Weighing in at only 3.17 ounces, the new Bow and Gear Hoist measures just 3.75 by 3.2 inches, and it is small enough to store in a back pocket. It features a 2-inch carabiner with a rubber coating on the large end to deaden sound, and a swivel attachment allows bows or gear to spin freely to prevent binding of the ribbon.

To use, simply attach your bow to the Bow and Gear Hoist’s carabiner, use the clip on the back to attach it to your belt— or place it in a secure pocket—and begin your climb. The ribbon will unwind, practically unnoticed during your accent. Once in the treestand, use the ribbon to raise your bow hand-over-hand. Then, just wind the ribbon back into its sturdy polymer case. To lower your bow, simply clip it to the carabiner again and lower it to the ground allowing the ribbon to slowly slide through your fingers. If no rocks or hard surfaces are present below, the HSS Bow and Gear Hoist can then be dropped to the ground.

Once you are safely on the ground, unhook the bow, wind the ribbon back into the housing, and toss it into your pack for the next hunt. You will never want to be without the new Bow and Gear Hoist from Hunter Safety System.

The new HSS Bow and Gear Hoist offers a simple, tangle-free and safe alternative to get your bow from the ground to the stand. The Easy Reel is part of the HSS Elite line of accessories, and it will be available in the spring 2015 at retailers nationwide and online at www.huntersafetysystem.com for a suggested retail price of $14.95.

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( Have a large family? Haul stuff?

Many Americans do, which is why the Chevrolet Suburban is one of the most popular and best selling vehicles in our nation’s history. Except for the three year period between 1943 and 1945 when no domestic vehicles were produced in the United States due to WWII, the venerable Chevy Suburban has been manufactured and sold since 1936 -- a remarkable 79year history, making in the most enduring vehicle ever made.

The 2015 Suburban LTZ four wheel drive vehicle I borrowed from GM for a recent trip to Kansas is a far cry from the initial 1936 model, which was essentially a delivery panel truck that GM installed some windows and passenger seats in. Today’s Suburban is a marvel of engineering -- easily the nicest vehicle I had ever driven.

The Suburban shares much of its powertrain with the full-sized Chevy Silverado and comes standard with a 355 HP 5.3L EcoTec V8 and a six speed automatic transmission. The package allows the Suburban to tow up to 8,000 lbs and provides a remarkable EPA-rated 15 city / 22 highway MPG. I averaged almost 19 MPG with my loaded-down Suburban throughout my round trip from Northern Indiana to Southeast Kansas.

The Suburban feels commanding, yet very carlike to drive. My LTZ version was equipped with what GM calls Magnetic Ride Control, a sophisticated suspension system that continually monitors the driving surface and uses electro magnetism to modify the fluid in the shocks and change dampening instantaneously. The bottom line is an extremely smooth ride.

It took me a while to figure out all of the high-tech gadgetry this impressive vehicle contains. It had front and rear park assist, lane departure and forward collision alert, and rear cross traffic alert, which basically means that sensors on the front and rear bumpers monitor what is going on around the vehicle at all times sends audible and sensory feedback (the driver’s seat vibrates) to warn the driver of any threats. Other high-tech goodies in the cabin included heated and cooled seats and steering wheel, wireless charging for mobile devices, rear passenger DVD entertainment system, Bose audio system, and voice-activated Chevy MyLink system with navigation, to name a few.

Aside from the obvious utility that the super-sized Suburban provides, my favorite features were the intuitive and easy-to-use MyLink system, smooth ride, and impressive fuel economy. And to my taste, the Suburban’s exterior styling makes it one of the classiest and sharpest vehicles on the road.

With a sticker price of nearly $70,000, the loaded LTZ version I was driving is out of reach for many families, but lower trim versions providing the same great looks, towing capability, seating for 9, and surprising fuel economy start at just $49,000 - and that’s a lot of lifestyle utility for the money.

God bless America. God bless Detroit. God bless General Motors. Learn more about the Chevrolet Suburban at http://www.chevrolet.com/suburbansuv.html.

In response to anglers' requests to network ONIX and 800, 900 or 1100 series units on the same boat, Humminbird engineers rolled up their sleeves and started writing code.

Now, after months of caffeine-fueled sessions in the lab and on the water, HumminbirdÂŽ is proud to announce Version 2.300 Software, a free download available through each unit owner's "My Humminbird" account that seamlessly integrates 800, 900 and 1100 Series units with ONIX. Most notably, Version 2.300 software offers significant performance upgrades and features, including the ability to share waypoint data (and Spot-Locks) in both directions between core units and ONIX. Another breakthrough feature of Version 2.300 software is a new waypoint list view that allows easy viewing of map areas with dense waypoint clustering, which will be of particular interest to tournament anglers and guides.

Additionally, Version 2.300 software saves anglers considerable time and frustration when transferring waypoint data from non-Humminbird sources via an SD card. Version 2.300 imports and converts Raymarine, Lowrance, Garmin, and Google Earth waypoints, which can be immediately shared between ONIX and core units on the same network. No PC or laptop required.

The Software Update Process To begin the update process, users should first verify they have registered their product and previously updated to Version 2.000 or 2.100 software via the owner's My Humminbird account.

Following product registration, users should download the software to their computer. Once successfully downloaded onto your PC, unzip the files on your computer before copying them to a blank 4 GB or greater Class 6 SD card. Do not rename files.

Once the files have been saved to the blank SD card, eject the card from your computer or external card reader and insert into your Humminbird unit. Please note that during the update process it is critical that you maintain continual power to your unit.

Once the installation is completed, power down the unit and restart. Following restart, users will note significantly improved speed and additional new features, including: • • • • • • • • •

Improved cartography data load times Faster zoom in/out on cartography Viewable waypoint list for map areas of dense waypoint clustering Faster network syncing for units with thousands of waypoints Current navigation track is saved in the event of power loss Improved waypoint accuracy on chart when waypoints are selected in sonar, Down Imaging or Side Imaging view Direct import of competitive TWR data (HWR, USR, GDB, MPS, KML, RWF, and GPS Babel extensions) AS RC1 Bluetooth Remote support LakeMaster PLUS support For more information visit humminbird.com, contact Humminbird, 678 Humminbird Lane, Eufaula, AL 36027, or call 800-633-1468.

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INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS Ž 2015Š

May 2015

Springtime Smallies

BABEWINKELMAN The time to dust off the rods, gas up the boat, and chase giant bronzebacks is upon us. I must say the attitude and fight of big smallmouth on the end of my line always seems to get my blood pumping.

When chasing smallmouth early in the season you will be faced with cool water temperatures that can range from 40 to 60 degrees, which can prove to be a challenge but gives you the opportunity of catching a true trophy.

Most of these bronzebacks have spent the winter months in deeper water and will now slowly start their journey to spawning

PANFISH As the weather warms and the days grow longer, many of us dream of sitting on the bank of a farm pond, soaking in the sun and watching the tiny red and white bobber sway back and forth with the waves of the crystal blue water.

Such visions inspire anglers across our state -- and across the country -- to go in pursuit of bluegill.

Bluegills offer an exciting fishing adventure, as well as some of the best table fare any fish can provide. So instead of dreaming about them, go and catch yourself a mess for supper tonight.

Bluegills are a simple fish to catch. It takes a lot to scare them, and the small ones do not mind what you throw at them. But, what are the best methods to catch a stringer of big bluegill this late spring and summer?

A big bluegill, 8-inches in length or bigger, is an old fish and knows how to survive. Much like a big whitetail buck, a “bull bluegill� stays alive by being wary

areas. They will be on the pursuit for food and a partner at this time.

So to start my search, I will begin fishing near flats and reefs in the deep water areas, especially if boulders are present. I will pitch my jig toward the top of the flat or reef and work my jig back to the boat bringing it down the break and into deep water. By deep I am referring to areas with depth ranging from 20 to 30 feet of water when the smallmouths are still prespawn. As the water continues to warm they will progress up these flats, making their big push when the water reaches the mid-50s.

Smallmouth like to spawn next to boulders, stumps, pilings or seawalls. They seem to like to have some form of protection on one side when such cover is available to them. When fishing in boulders on lakes and rivers, keep your rod tip high. The key is a slow yo -yo retrieve that keeps your bait rising and swimming along the bottom with out hanging up. For this style

of fishing I will use 1/8 or 3/16 ounce jigs with tubes or plastic grubs or worms. A slow, finesse presentation is so important to trigger a bronzeback into biting prior to or during the spawn. Pitch it out, let it sink, lift the rod tip, drop it back down while reeling up the slack, and hopefully set the hook.

Having a sensitive rod is extremely important when it comes to finesse fishing. My absolute favorite is the St. Croix Legend Elite 6'3" medium action with and extra fast tip. The feel you receive while working along the bottom and detecting subtle fish takes is just so unbelievable it’s something you absolutely need to experience for yourself to believe.

So do not overlook this opportunity, as you have a real chance at catching a goliath bronzeback. It is important to remember that patience and finesse are the keys when it comes to prespawn and spawn smallmouth.

Good Fishing!

Catching Bigger Bluegills of it's surroundings.

Most of my bluegill fishing is done at farm ponds, and I have pulled some lunker bluegills from these waters. Many fisherman believe that these small bodies of water will not hold big bluegills, but many state record bluegills come from farm ponds.

Indiana's state record bluegill was caught by Harold Catey in 1972 out of a private pond. The big fish weighed 3 pounds, 4 ounces.

One of the biggest mistakes that bluegill fisherman make is making too much noise. A little noise is tolerated by smaller fish, but the big ones will not stand for it. Do not bang your rods, drop your tackle box or even talk loudly if you want to catch more, bigger bluegills.

Many anglers of different fish species know the power that fishing at night has when it comes to landing the big ones, but what about bluegills? Using small spinnerbaits, or hooks with a split-shot

By Jason Houser

sinker and no bobber with bait works well during the summer.

Just keep a finger on the line to detect any bites.

Spinnerbaits are good during the daytime, too, when fished slowly and on waters you are not familiar with. While larger gills will attempt to eat surprisingly large lures at times, a 1/32-ounce lure is ideal for enticing a bite.

Are you tired of catching the little bluegills and nothing else?

Then it is probably time to move to deeper water. The big fish would rather be in the deep, dark and cool water where they are not as easily bothered by what is happening near the surface.

Crappie fisherman have always known the power of using minnows to catch big slabs. But did you know that minnows will catch jaw dropping bluegills too?

Like most other gamefish, bluegill feed on smaller fish, so it only makes sense to use minnows for big bluegill. A 2-inch minnow hooked through both lips on a slipbobber rig works best. You may not catch a lot, but the ones you catch will be worth talking about.

Look where other anglers do not look. These areas include thick, hard-to-get-to cover. Grab a long rod and fish live baits in spots that are barely accessible. These are the hideaways for trophy bluegills. It may take a boat or a belly boat to get to these haunts.

Rods of over 10-feet provide extra reach and avoid extra boat movement that could potentially spook fish. A 12 to 16-foot rod works even better. Fish without the aid of a bobber by pulling the bait to the tip of the rod and releasing it when you have the bait over the specific opening you wish to fish.

Last but not least, go light.

Many times, big bluegill are more likely to just barely tap your bait than provide a pounding strike.

That said, use lightweight gear, especially a rod with a soft, sensitive tip. This setup will enable you to barely lift your pole and notice a slight bend on the tip of your rod,

which indicates that a fish has taken your bait. Also, stick with 1or 2-pound line to catch more and bigger bluegills.

Follow these tips and you are well on your way to a good bluegill supper. If you have a real honeyhole, however, you may want to consider releasing the very biggest fish you catch and only keep enough for a meal. In smaller waters like farm ponds, it’s actually pretty easy to “fish out� the supply of big fish, which is something worthwhile to think about.

Easy Bluegill Nuggets • • • • •

1/2-pound bluegill fillets, cut into squares or cubes 1 egg, beaten 1/2-cup dry bread crumbs Sweet and sour sauce Oil

Heat oil in a deep pan to about 375 degrees. Dip fillets in egg then into bread crumbs. Fry until golden brown. Drain and serve with sauce for dipping.

, &% ' & 0 2# Fishing for spawning bluegills can be highly productive and great fun, especially with a fly rod.

Bluegills may spawn two or even three times a summer in some waters. Initial spawning takes place when water temperatures rise into the low-to-mid sixty-degree-range over shallow sandy areas.

Bluegill nests are highly visible and easy to find, with nesting complexes often extending over large areas wherever suitable conditions exist.

Because of this, and because it is the larger, more mature fish that spawn, it is critical to practice responsible conservation when fishing for spawning ‘gills. Bluegills are very vulnerable and can be decimated at this time, especially by removing all of the large males. Ever wonder why a lake or pond is full of small, stunted bluegills with no large ones? It’s because all the large ones were removed along with the DNA necessary for growning large bluegills.

By only harvesting some of your catch and releasing many of the larger bluegill, you can have enjoy a good meal while making sure the resource remains available in the future.

May 2015

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2015©

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May’s Best Hunting & Fishing Times...

Indiana Outdoor Calendar May 2015 May 2: Cabela’s Illiana Bowfishing Tournament. For more information please visit www.illinoisbowfishing.info May 2-3: Hoosier Coho Classic Fishing Tournament. Information and registration at www.hoosiercohoclub.org May 10: Last Day of Spring Turkey Hunting Season.

May 16-24: Go Outdoors Event at Bass Pro Shops Stores. Visit www.basspro.com for more information.

May 16: Indiana DNR Free Fishing Day. No fishing license needed.

May 15-17: 19th Annual Indiana Muskie Classic Fishing Tournament, North Webster, Indiana. Visit www.indianamuskieclassic.com for rules, entry form and info.

May 16: IL CCW and Utah CC Courses at the Hammond Cabela’s store.

Call Shaun at 708-724-3716 or visit www.blackhawkdefense.com for more info

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

4:31 5:01 5:34 6:11 6:52 7:37 :28 9:24 10:25 12:45 1:27 2:05 2:43 3:19 3:57 4:36 5:23 6:04 6:54 7:47 8:43 9:39 10:37 11:33 1:02 1:33 2:02 2:32 3:02 3:33 4:09

A.M Major

P. M. Minor

P.M. Major

Sunrise

Sunset

Fishing Quality / Notes

10:59 5:27 ----6:45 8:39 Fair 11:42 6:24 ----6:44 8:40 Fair ----7:22 12:28 6:43 8:41 Poor 12:46 8:21 1:16 6:42 8:42 Fair / Full Moon 1:36 9:19 2:05 6:40 8:43 Fair 2:28 10:16 2:56 6:39 8:44 Fair 3:44 ----3:48 6:38 8:45 Fair 4:16 ----4:41 6:37 8:46 Fair 5:12 ----5:35 6:36 8:47 Poor 6:07 ----6:27 6:35 8:47 Poor 7:01 12:36 7:20 6:34 8:48 Fair / Waning Half Moon 7:54 1:43 8:13 6:33 8:49 Fair 8:48 2:53 9:06 6:32 8:50 Fair 9:40 4:02 9:59 6:31 8:51 Fair 10:34 5:12 10:54 6:30 8:52 Fair 11:28 6:21 ----6:29 8:53 Fair 5:18 ----12:23 6:28 8:54 Good 12:46 8:33 1:18 6:27 8:55 Good /New Moon 1:43 9:31 2:12 6:26 8:56 Good 2:39 10:25 3:06 6:26 8:57 Good 3:34 ----3:57 6:25 8:58 Fair 4:25 ----4:45 6:24 8:59 Fair 5:14 ----5:33 6:23 9:00 Fair 6:01 ----6:17 6:23 9:00 Poor 6:46 12:30 7:01 6:22 9:01 Poor / Waxing Half Moon 7:29 1:25 7:43 6:21 9:02 Fair 8:11 2:21 8:26 6:21 9:03 Fair 8:54 3:16 9:09 6:20 9:04 Poor 9:38 4:14 9:53 6:20 9:05 Poor 10:22 5:11 10:40 6:19 9:05 Poor 11:09 6:10 ----6:19 9:06 Fair All times are for the Eastern Time Zone and are calibrated for Indianapolis

• A variety of Hunter Education courses are offered around the state this month. For details, visit www.in.gov/dnr/lawenfor/4812.htm.

• Check http://www.ducks.org/indiana/events/ for a complete list of Ducks Unlimited events throughout Indiana this month.

• Check http://www.nwtf.org/indiana/hh_banquets.html for a complete list of National Wild Turkey Federation banquets in Indiana this month.

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ACROSS

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1 Game, wildfowl having young 4 Old one is termed a "loner" 8 A field area 9 Electronic device on a hunting dog 10 A bait used for brown trout 11 Appendages on a turkey's feet 13 A species of goose 14 A large grouping of animals 15 Term for a certain casting method 21 To analyze the age of a track 22 A breed of gundog 23 To hunt with arrows 25 Name for a certain bass species 26 The jungle tree swinger 27 The male turkey 28 Very large on the muley 29 The quail or bob_____ 32 The camp shelter 35 Valuable to the fur seeker 37 A female bear 40 A game bird 41 Name for the Hawaiian goose 42 A lake bird 43 Failure of a firearm to function

1 A part on a bow 2 Chinook or king 3 Woodie is a whitetail of the _____ 4 Term used in a shoot contest 5 Term for a casting method 6 A sound made by wild turkeys 7 Animal resting places 12 Lab name for fish eggs 15 A family of small fish 16 Another name for turkey sounds 17 An edible saltwater fish 18 A habit a game trends to follow 19 Deer are classed as this 20 Area favored by certain animals 22 A type of lure 24 They are getting more into shooting sports 26 A good bear scent lure 29 A type of fishing lure 30 A need for packing the day's catch 31 A brand of bow 33 Find quail in this field area 34 A type of gunsight 35 A good trap bait 36 A species of duck 38 A very good catfish bait 39 A handy item to have in hunting kit

Answers on Page 7

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INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2015©

May 2015

Real Fishermen Are Liars

The Last Thought MIKESCHOONVELD Ever heard, “That sounds fishy,” or “That sounds like a fish tale,” even if the actual subject of the conversation has nothing to do with fishing? It’s because the ability of people who fish to be truthful is only a few steps ahead of that of Hillary Clinton.

Learning to artfully prevaricate for Hillary and other politicians is an attempt to gain power, wealth or to advance their agenda; an agenda usually having to do with giving them more clout and money. For fishermen, it’s just instinctive, can’t be helped and for no apparent reason. I learned this truth at an early age.

In the spring of my second year of grade school, Charlie Kaufman introduced me to fishing. Holding a long cane pole and sitting on the bank of long abandoned clay quarry which filled with water after the tile and brick factory closed, I caught my first fish.

Later that summer I went

with my grandparents on a week’s vacation to Wisconsin.

They bought me my own rod and reel and I became an avid fisherman. By week’s end, I’ll bet I had caught every sunfish living under the boat dock a half-dozen times.

Back home, I was stymied. I didn’t own a bike and the local fishing holes were too remote to access on foot. Unless someone wanted to take me fishing, I was sidelined.

That changed the following Christmas once Santa figured how to get a bicycle for me down the chimney. In that era (at least in my little town), all kids were raised “free-range.” As soon as the dirt in the garden became frost free, thus allowing access to garden worms, almost every free minute was spent digging bait, peddling to the clay pit, more often to an oxbow of the Iroquois river we called the bayou, or to other ponds which teamed with bullheads but little else. I fished mornings. I fished in the afternoons. Sometimes in the long days of summer, I’d peddle out of town after supper and fish almost until dark. I fished a lot, but I was always truthful about my fishing.

Truthfulness was easy for me. At that age I did few things that warranted a clever cover-up.

Sure, when Mom asked what I was doing down in the basement

or in the garage I’d reply, “Nothing.” Obviously, I was doing “something” so technically, my response was a lie. But as long as I wasn’t playing with matches or messing with Dad’s tools, whatever I was doing was innocent enough that my minor dabble into the world of mis-truth went mostly unchallenged.

Kids instinctively lie to their parents.

Kids don’t instinctively lie to their grandparents. If Grandma Lois would have asked what I was doing in the garage I’d have told her, “trying to figure out if I could make a fishing bobber out of a walnut.” Sadly, I couldn’t, at least not a very good one.

Walnuts were an abundant resource in our yard - and free leaving my meager fishing budget available for other tackle.

As I was loading my bike for my morning excursion to the bayou, Mom informed me to be home for lunch since Grandma was coming. When the fire whistle in town signaled high noon, I loaded up and peddled fast.

I had just rolled into the yard when the visitors arrived and as soon as the car doors opened, I ran to get a hug. Grandma was a fisherman so I knew she’d be interested in how my fishing success had been that morning so as I approached, I yelled, “Grandma, grandma...I caught a

A fish story is nothing more than a lie, unless there’s photographic proof. Even then, it’s predent to remain skeptical. Photo by Josh Lantz. state record crappie this morning!”

I might as well have run headlong into a tree I was so stunned by what I’d just said. I don’t know where the words came from - not from my head,

certainly not from truth! They just fell out of my mouth inexplicably. In retrospect, I realize they came from instinct, that animal nature that drives us to do things without thinking. I’d become a fisherman. ‘I’d become a liar.

May 2015

INDIANA OUTDOOR NEWS ® 2015©

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