PROMISING BEAR SEASON AWAITS - P.11
Walleye Hatch Index Story inside page 13
Hunters, Mentors, and Big Bucks OV Outdoor Times
When we think of mentored hunting, we often imagine a father and young son or daughter heading out into the woods for a first experience. That’s not always the case, though. Adults sometimes need men- By Ralph Scherder Hunting Editor tored, too. Gus Musisca of Starks County, OH, is a lifelong fisherman, but only recently did he start hunting. “I started hunting about 7 years ago,” says Musisca. “I’m 54 now. Usually any time my friends went hunting, I went fishing instead. Now I like getting out in the woods, too, because it’s so peaceful and quiet.” The transition to hunting was influenced by several people in Musisca’s life, primarily his cousin David Crawford and friend Roger Pound. “He came to us thinking shotguns couldn’t shoot farther than 40 yards and bows couldn’t kill deer passed 20 yards,” says Pound. “Now he can shoot, track, and he’s a lean, mean killing machine. I’m so
Ohio Valley
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Outdoor Times
November 2015
proud of him.” Of course, there’s reason to be proud. On October 19, 2015, Musisca killed his first Ohio buck, a 135-inch whitetail with a crossbow on Pound’s property in Columbiana County. It was only his second buck ever, the first taken on a hunting trip in Tennessee a few years earlier. By far, though, this buck is his best and hard earned. That morning, Musisca was supposed to meet a friend at 4:30 a.m. to go hunting, but the friend didn’t show up. Fortunately, Musisca didn’t let that stop him. It was a cold, crisp morning with temperatures hovering around 24 degrees. Although several deer snorted at him on his way to the stand, Musisca took it slow and “walked like a deer” the way his friends had shown him. “I took three steps at a time and paused a lot,” says Musisca. “It took me 45 minutes to walk in to the blind about three quarters of a mile from the truck. There were deer all over the place that morning.” Prior to joining up with Crawford and Pound, Musisca says he never realized how much strategy actually goes into hunting. Fortunately he had friends who were also willing to mentor. “Up until three years ago he was hunting the Ohio AEP lands in southern Ohio for deer without anyone showing him how to do it right,” says Pound. “He got into his treestand, got out, and that was about it for years.” Eventually Musisca would learn all about what it takes to be Turn To Hunters Page 4
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of Gus Musisca
Gus Musisca is shown with his biggest buck to date, a nice 9-point, taken on a friends farm in Columbiana County, OH.
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
INSIDE THIS MONTH
5 PA Hunters Reminded 11 Promising Bear 6
PAGC
to Report Harvest
PAGC
Season Awaits in PA
12
Fishing for River Channel Cats Jeff Knapp
CWD Rules to Expand in PA
WVDNR
is Best in 12 Years
8 WVDNR Offers
PAGC
13 Walleye Hatch Index
8 Reporting Hunting
Treestand Safety Tips WVDNR
10 Early Fall Archery
Violations in WV WVDNR
Harvest is Up in WV
15 Reaching Out to the Next Generation OUTDOOR CALENDAR
Turkey Shoots - Each Sunday 10 a.m. Nov. 15-Dec. 13 at Chester-Newell Sportsmen Club on Gas Valley Road (behind Green Valley Dairy), Hookstown, PA. Reg. shoots $3, money shoots $5. For info. call 304-383-1886 or 304-374-5587. Turkey Shoots - Each Sunday 1 p.m. Nov. 15 & Nov. 22 at Lake Milton Fish and Game Club 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center, OH 44401. Cost $2 round. Call Ron at 330-348-4020. Website: www.lakemiltonifishandgame.com. Public Trap Shoot - Nov. 15, 22, 29; 11 a.m. each Sunday at Columbiana County Fish and Game Association; 45716 Middle Beaver Rd, Lisbon, OH 44432. Visit website: columbianacountyfishandgame.com. Indoor .22/Air Rifle Shooting - Range open to public each Weds, Nov. 18, 25. (6 p.m., Sun. 11 am.) and Indoor Pistol Shooting - each Fri. (7-10 p.m.) Oct. 2-April 26, 2016. All calibers except mag loads. At Columbiana County Fish and Game Association; 45716 Middle Beaver Rd, Lisbon, OH 44432. Visit website: columbianacountyfishandgame.com.
Ohio Valley
A Proud Father
Chris Snoderly is a dedicated bowhunter. He’s also a proud father. Recently his youngest daughter, Emily, made him very proud. It was the 10year-old’s first ‘official’ hunting trip and By Larry Claypool she was able to come Editor home with two nice trophies — a pair of squirrels. As a proud father Chris Snoderly shared a nice photograph of Emily’s squirrels. The photo appears in this edition, on Page 7. It will also make a future issue of Ohio Valley Outdoors magazine, in our Trophy Showcase pages. Those squirrels, and the hunt, apparently was enough to ‘hook’ Emily into the sport of hunting. Chris said his daughter has already asked him “when they can go hunting again”. Chris said squirrel hunting is a great way to introduce kids to the outdoors. His oldest daughter, Anna, also was introduced to hunting by plucking squirrels from trees near their home in Brooke County, West Virginia. Anna is 13-years-old and recently harvested a nice 22-lb turkey (photos to come of that one). Chris said Emily claimed the two squirrels with a .410 shotgun. “She only weighs 60 pounds,” he said. Chris also spends time in the summer fishing with his daughters. Sportsmen’s Alliance, based in Columbus, OH, recently ran a feature article in its monthly newsletter on the topic of taking kids hunting. The article is called, ‘10 Commandments on Taking Kids Hunting’. The entire article, written by Sean Curran, OV Outdoor Times
2
can be found on their website: www.sportsmensalliance.org. The article begins with a very good message. One we should all try to live by, and follow through with. It states, “Getting the next generation of hunters into the field should be a priority this season for each and every sportsman… It’s an investment in the future of our outdoor pursuits, and you’ll find out it’s even more rewarding that you can imagine.” Curran offers a pretty good list of things you should consider when taking kids afield. We may all not agree on the order in which he lists the “commandments”, but most should agree, it’s a very good list. First off on the list; Curran mentions “safety”. That’s a good place to start. Being safe in the woods must be stressed to everyone, especially kids. Kids are influenced at an early age, so safety is a key element. Number two on the list is: “Make it Fun”. Two key points here are — 1. Don’t pressure kids into situations because of your own drive. 2. Let them progress at their own pace and they’ll take ownership of the situation. Number three mentions “Weather”. “Take kids out in pleasant conditions,” says Curran. Good point. You want kids to be comfortable. It will be easier to stay focused. “Patience” is number four on the list. “Don’t lose it,” says Curran. “Find ways to guide their energy while creating teaching moments.” And maybe bring along a bird identification book to ID birds you see while afield. Number five is “Snacks”. That’s always a good one, in most situations. And don’t
To Advertise CALL 330-385-2243 Publisher/Editor, Larry Claypool lclaypool@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
Outdoor Times
Graphics Designer, Linda McKenzie lmckenzie@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
November 2015 VOL. 7, NO. 11
is published by Ohio Valley Outdoors Magazine
Offices located at
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November 2015
Turn To Father Page 10
Contributing Editors
Ralph Scherder, Hunting Editor Jeff Knapp, Fishing Editor Brian Miller, Field Editor
QUESTIONS, COMMENTS
Ohio Valley Outdoor Times is all about its readers. We’d love to hear from you. Send us something at ohvod@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
November 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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November 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
2016 WV Wildlife Calendars are Available
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — “The 2016 is now available for everyone to enjoy,” according to Paul R. Johansen, chief of the Division of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Section. The cover of this award-winning wall calendar features a painting of two male turkeys in the snow. Paintings by West Virginia artists include a groundhog, a beagle with cottontail rabbit, a male brook trout, a springer spaniel and ruffed grouse, an opossum, a pair of coyotes, red fox kits and a green darner dragonfly. Additional wildlife species featured include a Baltimore oriole, a mother black bear with cubs, and a snowy owl. Accompanying each painting is a brief description of the featured animal and the artist’s contact information. Feature articles in the back of the calendar highlight lichens and the new electronic game check system, along with a compilation of nature quotes accompanied by photos. “The calendar is full of interesting
daily facts, best fishing days and monthly tips to help you fully enjoy the outdoors,” Johansen said. “Its $10 price tag makes it a terrific bargain and a great holiday gift.” Proceeds from the calendar sales help fund projects of the DNR Wildlife Diversity Program such as monitoring bird populations, developing educational wildlife trunks for use in schools, and printing of publications about wildlife species which are not hunted, trapped or fished. The 2016 West Virginia Wildlife Calendar is available at DNR district offices, card stores, convenience and drug stores throughout the state, or through the West Virginia DNR Wildlife Resources Section, P.O. Box 67, Elkins, WV 26241; phone: 304-637-0245. If buying the calendar through the mail, make checks payable to in the amount of $16.50 for each calendar, which includes shipping and handling (West Virginia residents add $.60 tax.
Hunters From Page 1
successful in the deer woods. “The first time I went hunting these guys,” says Musisca, “I was freezing my tail off. Buddies gave me a shotgun and I was about ready to call it quits when a bunch of does came over the hill and I shot one. After that I went to Tennessee and killed my first buck with a rifle.” And slowly but surely Musisca has improved his skills as a hunter. The blind Musisca climbed into the morning of October 19 was positioned in a perfect location at the edge of a whey field and across from a soybean field. He’d hunted from the blind several times already and had seen a number of small bucks but no shooters. A little after seven, Musisca spotted a buck coming up a little hill to his right about 30 yards away. The buck was walking in the same way Musisca had, but it never sensed any danger. After a few minutes of watching and waiting for the deer to offer a shot, Musisca got his chance. “The buck was on his way to bed in a patch of woods across the field where some does were bedding. He was about 20 yards away when I shot and he never knew what hit him,” Musisca says. “The deer ran toward the trees about 60 yards away and I lost sight of it. The arrow went through so fast I didn’t even have a blood trail.” As it turned out, Musisca didn’t need
one. Even still, as Pound and Crawford had taught him, Musisca marked the direction the deer had gone and called them to come help him track. “We got up there about 45 minutes later,” says Pound, “but there really wasn’t any need to track. The deer was right there at the treeline. It had fallen just out of sight of the blind.” The buck was a 9-point with a 17-inch spread and 8½-inch G-2s. Prior to that morning, none of their crew had seen this buck, which they estimated to be six to seven years old. “Its teeth were pretty worn down,” says Pound. “Also, its neck was already really swollen. Seems like the rut started early this year. Three days earlier there were no scrapes along that timbered area, but all of a sudden the area was all torn up and Gus got this deer.” About hunting, Musisca says, “I’m a lineman for a cable company. I deal with people all day long in their houses. Hunting is my escape, and even if you don’t see anything, it’s still a good day.” Pound says it best, though. “I love it when you take someone who loves to hunt, but they’ve never been shown the right way to do it, and you teach them and they excel. Gus has come a long way in three years. My button’s were just popping I was so proud of him for getting this buck. For the years he’s put in, he deserves every bit of it.”
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
the harvest-report phone system, and that number appears only on the ear tag. Hunters who harvest bucks and intend to report them by phone should write down the tag number before taking an antlered deer to a processor or disposing of the head and hide. Along with this tag number, hunters reporting by phone also should have on hand their licenses and other information about the animal, such as the number of points on a buck’s rack or the length of a turkey’s beard, when placing the call. Hunters who are unable to complete harvest reports by phone have other options. To report harvests online, visit the Game Commission’s website, and click on the “Report Your Harvest� button found near the top right side of the homepage. Have your hunting license number and harvest tags ready. Hunters with multiple tags also should make certain they correctly report the harvest based on the tag that was used in the field. This also is true for harvests reported by mail.
information that will aid the Game Commission in making future management decisions. “Every time a hunter or trapper reports a harvest, wildlife management in Pennsylvania improves,� Hough said. “And I thank them all for their effort.�
Free Venison Canning Workshop Offered
XENIA, OH – Outdoors enthusiasts interested in learning the basics of pressure canning venison are encouraged to attend a free informational workshop provided by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife on November 24, 2015. Trained professionals will cover topics including venison preparation, pressure canning and canning equipment. The workshop will be held from 6-9 p.m. All venison and equipment will be supplied. The workshop is free of charge by pre-registration is required as space is limited to 15 participants. No walk-ins will be admitted. Register by calling at 937-372-9261, or email Brittany.Kessler@dnr.state.oh.us. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
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HARRISBURG, PA — In Pennsylvania, each hunter who harvests a deer or turkey has a legal obligation to report it within 10 days. And hunters are advised they must have a number printed only on the harvest ear tag in order to complete antlered-deer harvest reports by phone. Reporting by phone is one of three options for successful deer and turkey hunters. Deer and turkey harvests also may be reported online or by mail. The toll-free phone system, which can be accessed by dialing 1-855PAHUNT1 (1-855-724-8681), requires hunters to enter the “tag number� when reporting antlered-deer harvests. For antlered deer, the tag number is found only on the harvest ear tag, and nowhere else on the general license. For all other deer and turkey licenses the tag number appears on the carcass tag as well as the license panel itself. For hunters who process their own deer, this likely poses no issue since the tag stays with the hunter. But for hunters who drop a tagged antlered deer off at a butcher shop, it could be problematic, because the tag number is required by
Each hunter, at the time he or she purchases a license, is issued the current edition of the Pennsylvania Hunting & Trapping Digest. The digest contains postage-paid postcards to report deer and turkey harvests, and these can be filled out by hand and mailed in. While licensed hunters have 10 days to report deer and turkey harvests, mentored youth and mentored adult hunters must report their harvests within five days. In addition to deer and turkey harvests, harvests of fishers and bobcats must be reported to the Game Commission within 48 hours, and otter harvests must be reported within 24 hours. Bear and elk harvests must be reported at a Game Commission check station. By reporting their harvests, Pennsylvania’s hunters help to provide the best information possible to aid the Game Commission in managing the state’s wildlife, said Game Commission Executive Director R. Matthew Hough. “Deer and turkey harvests are among those that are required by law to be reported,� Hough said. “But hunters should know that, by reporting harvests, they’re not only fulfilling their legal obligation, they’re also providing valuable
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Fall Fishing for River Channel Cats
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OV Outdoor Times
We hadn’t been anchored for more than a couple minutes when the tip of one of the rods stationed at the back of Rod Bates’ boat began to dance. I somewhat clumsily removed the rod By Jeff Knapp from its holder and Fishing Editor set the hook. A short time later a citation-sized channel cat was securely in the net. I was fishing the lower Susquehanna River, not far downstream of Three Mile Island, with Rod Bates, owner of Koinonia Guide Service. A few falls ago I’d joined Bates for a fantastic morning of flathead catfish action, when we’d boated several fish in excess of 30 pounds. So when the opportunity presented itself to join him for an outing directed toward channel cats I jumped on it. “Channel cats are a great resource,” Bate noted. “They bite when it’s hot out
and when it’s cold. When the river is high and muddy, when it’s low and clear.” As a guide, Bates has found channel cats to be a reliable species, particularly since the Susquehanna’s world class smallmouth bass fishery has been declining during the past decade. Channel cats not only give anglers plenty of action, since they are abundant clients can go home with fish for the pan. In addition to being plentiful and relatively easy to catch, Bates appreciates the simplicity with which they can be taken. “You don’t need a lot of specialized gear,” he stated. “The same gear that works for bass is ideal for channel cats. And you don’t need to collect live bait, as you do for flathead catfish.” During my time on the water with Bates, the clinic he provided reinforced his claims. In terms of bait, all we used was Team Catfish Sudden Impact Fiber Bait. It’s a relatively viscous concoction that’s packed in a pail. Baiting up was easy – simply use a spatula-like device
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November 2015
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Jeff Knapp
Rod Bates displays a nice Susquehanna River channel cat during a recent fishing trip.
to place a gob of the stuff within a treble hook. And though it might be best not to
Turn To Fall Fishing Page 7
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — As West Virginia’s hunters take to the field, they gain more than just an enjoyable day with family and friends. Many will successfully harvest a deer and fill their freezer with an ample amount of “hearthealthy” venison (deer meat). “Venison is an excellent alternative to beef for those concerned with healthier choices in their diet,” said Paul Johansen, chief of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Section (DNR). “Venison is a good source of protein for many West Virginia families and has fewer calories and less fat than an equivalent serving of beef.” After the harvest, hunters can ensure their selected venison cuts will be the best quality and flavor if they take a few simple steps in caring for their game. Meat should not be exposed to excessive dirt or moisture and should be cooled as quickly as possible to avoid spoilage. Hunters are not the only West Virginians who benefit from deer harvested in the state. Over the past two decades, the DNR has sponsored the Hunters Helping the Hungry (HHH) program. Since its
inception in 1992, generous hunters and financial contributors have enabled the processing of this highly nutritious meat which has Ohio Valley Outdoors more Photo courtesy of provided WV Dept. of Commerce than 1.1 million Over the past two meals for needy decades, the West Virginia famWVDNR has spon- ilies. Visit for insored the Hunters formation about Helping the Hungry Hunters Helping (HHH) program. the Hungry. For more information about the HHH program or West Virginia’s various deer hunting seasons and regulations, consult the available at all DNR offices and license agents or visit the DNR website at . Reminder: Hunters should get their permanent DNR ID number prior to the hunting seasons at wvhunt.com, a DNR office or at any license agent, so they will be ready to check in their animal with the new electronic game checking system.
Venison is Excellent Low-fat Alternative to Beef
November 2015
Fall Fishing From Page 6
know what it’s made of – and I suspect the maker wouldn’t be anxious to give away the formula – it wasn’t overly smelly or nasty. In terms of terminal rigging a short (one to three foot) leader was constructed of the same 17 pound test Bass Pro Shops XPS fluorocarbon line he uses as his regular running line. A barrel swivel was used to connect the leader and line. Above the leader an egg sinker was slid up the line, and then a “sinker bumper” that protected the knot from the sinker. The pool we fished was fairly shallow – three to four feet deep. So we used a light egg sinker, about a quarter ounce. Deeper water and/or stronger current would have required a heavier sinker. On the business end of the leader went a size 4 or 6 treble hook. On the back of Bates’ boat was an aluminum rod rack that spanned the width of the boat. The rack held multiple rod holders, so several rods could be fished out the back with minimal tangling. We used four rods – Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris 7-foot medium heavy casting rods – coupled with appropriate low profile casting reels. During the oh-too-short evening that I
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
fished with Bates the action was consistent. Every few minutes a rod would get active, and he would help coach me on the proper way to test to see if the forktail was still there, a method somewhat different from my bass/walleye fishing background. Despite my missing a few opportunities we boated at least 10 channel cats up to 25 inches. Most were in the 16 to 18 inch range. All the action came from one pool. When we initially pulled up to the spot we anchored at the head of the pool in water around a foot deep. Casts were made directly downstream, spaced at the proper intervals to keep lines separated. When the action would cool down Bates would pay out more anchor line so we’d be working new water. After each move there would be another flurry of action. Though this adventure took place on the Susquehanna River, our area has many fine channel cat fisheries that are largely ignored by anglers. Shenango River Lake and Pymatuning Lake are two of them. More information on Rod Bates Guide Service can be obtained by visiting www.koinoniafishingguides.com; for more on channel cat baits and rigging items visit www.teamcatfish.com.
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Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of Chris Snoderly
Emily Snoderly, age 10 of Brooke County, WV harvested two nice squirrels recently.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
WVDNR Offers Treestand Safety Tips
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — November is a big month for hunters, and the Division of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds hunters that safety is the most important part of a successful season. This especially applies to the use of treestands. Treestands can be dangerous if they are used incorrectly or carelessly. Nationally, one in three hunting injuries involves a treestand. Falls from treestands can be caused by a variety of factors, including a weakness in the stand’s structure and incorrect installation. Hunters also may fall asleep while on their stands. Treestands also can be a factor in other hunting incidents, including injury from accidental firing of a loaded firearm while the hunter is climbing to the stand. “Because treestand incidents have become the most common cause of hunter injuries, DNR has been emphasizing treestand safety in the mandatory hunter education courses we schedule around the state,” said Col. Jerry Jenkins, chief of the DNR Law Enforcement Section. To help prevent accidents, DNR recommends that hunters follow these safety precautions:
• Never carry equipment with you while climbing. Use a haul line to raise or lower your gear. Make sure guns are unloaded and broad heads are covered before raising or lowering firearms or bows with a haul line. • Since most accidents occur when hunters are climbing up or down a tree, always use a climbing belt. Always use a safety belt or harness when hunting from elevated treestands. Study manufacturer’s recommendations before using any equipment. Never use a rope to replace a safety belt. • Check permanent treestands every year before hunting from them, and replace any worn or weak lumber. • Read, understand and follow the factory recommended practices and procedures when installing commercial stands. Inspect portable stands for loose nuts and bolts each time they are used. • Choose only healthy, living trees when using climbing devices. Roughbarked trees such as oak are best. Do not use a tree that is rotten or has dead limbs. • Never put all your weight on a single branch. Keep at least one hand and one
November 2015
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of WVDNR
Treestand safety is a major part of the West Virginia DNR’s Hunter Education course.
foot on a secure place when reaching for the next hold. • Climb higher than the stand and step down onto it. Climbing up onto it can dislodge it. • Wear boots with non-skid soles, because steps or platforms can be slippery
in rain, sleet or snow. • Tell a dependable person where you’re hunting and when you plan on returning. Map your whereabouts and leave a note at camp, at home or in your car so that you can be found.
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — It’s easy to report hunting or fishing law violations in West Virginia, and those reports are helpful in protecting the state’s wildlife. “Anyone who witnesses or is aware of hunting and fishing law violations can call the closest DNR district office, 911 or provide information on the DNR website,” said Col Jerry Jenkins, chief of the DNR Law Enforcement Section. “We are doing this to ensure a quicker response to the violations reported by the public.” For non-emergency calls or questions, or to report questionable hunting or fishing activity, telephone calls should be made directly to the closest of six DNR district offices during working hours. Violations also may be reported on the DNR website at www.wvdnr.gov/LEnforce/Poachers.sht m. For emergencies or to report game law violations in progress, calls should go to local 911 centers. When calling, provide the following information, if known, to a West Virginia
Natural Resources Police Officer: • the nature of the violation; • the location of the violation; • the name and/or description of the violator; • a description of any vehicle and license number or boat involved in the violation; • any other important information which will assist in apprehending the violator. Reminder: Hunters should get their permanent DNR ID number before the hunting seasons at wvhunt.com, a DNR office or at any license agent, so they will be ready to check in their harvest with the new electronic game checking system.
Reporting Hunting Violations in West Virginia
WVDNR Law Enforcement District Offices District 1 - Farmington 304-825-6787 District 2 - Romney 304-822-3551 District 3 - Elkins 304-637-0245 District 4 - Beckley 304-256-6945 District 5 - Nitro 304-759-0703 District 6 - Parkersburg 304-420-4550
November 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
2015 PA Trapping Opener On Shenango River Lake in western PA
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photos by Larry Claypool
Veteran PA trappers Rich Faler (left in far right photo) and Ralph Scherder (right) took a different approach for the 2015 season opener by setting traps, from a boat and near the shorelines, on the Shenango River Lake in western Pennsylvania. See more photos and trapping stories in the Winter Issue of Ohio Valley Outdoors magazine, on newsstands December 4.
Ohio Aerial Waterfowl Survey in Place
By ODNR
Objective: The bi-weekly aerial waterfowl survey is used to monitor waterfowl abundance during fall/winter migration throughout the northern portion of Ohio. This survey also helps identify habitat types critical to waterfowl and helps document waterfowl use of restored wetland projects over time. Procedure: The survey is flown weekly during September and bi-weekly from October through January. The survey is flown over selected water areas distributed in the Lake Erie marsh region in northwestern Ohio, and will once again include Wildlife Areas throughout northern Ohio including Big Island, Killdeer Plains, Grand Lake St. Mary’s/Mercer, Killbuck Marsh, Funk Bottoms, and Mosquito Creek. This survey is conducted on or
near the 1st and 15th of each month, weather permitting. The survey crew identifies and estimates the number of each species of waterfowl encountered on the survey sites. Survey transects are flown at an altitude and route to optimize waterfowl identification and minimize disturbance. Survey Sites: Sandusky Bay Marshes, Pickerel Creek Wildlife Area, Toussaint Marsh Area, Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area, Maumee Bay, Ottawa Wildlife Area National Wildlife Refuge, Cedar Point National Wildlife Refuge, Navarre Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, Darby National Wildlife Refuge, Grand Lake St Mary’s, Big Island Wildlife Area, Killdeer Plains Wildlife Area, Mosquito Creek Wildlife Area, Killbuck Marsh Wildlife Area and Funk Bottoms Wildlife Area.
TAKE A KID HUNTING OR FISHING
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Early Fall Archery Harvest Up in WV
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — West Virginia archery hunters are having a successful year so far in 2015, showing a 53 percent increase in their harvest of white-tailed deer compared to this time last year. The Division of Natural Resources reports that, as of Oct. 26, bow and crossbow hunters have taken 11,798 deer compared to 7,729 deer taken up to the same date in 2014, a 53 percent increase. The archery season began Sept. 26 and runs through Dec. 31, 2015. The total for all seasons up to this date, including archery, urban hunts, youth/Class Q/XS and the early antlerless deer gun season (Oct. 22-24), is 17,776 deer. That compares to 15,216 taken at this time in 2014, a 17 percent increase. For the early antlerless gun season alone, including the one-day youth season, the 2015 harvest 5,373 compared to 6,974 by this date last year, a 23 percent decrease. “The count is available this early in the season thanks to DNR’s new electronic licensing and game checking system that went into effect this year,” according to Chris Ryan, supervisor of game management services for DNR. “Previously, game tags had to be collected from check-in stations across the state at the end of the hunting season and counted by hand, which took a long time. With electronic licensing and game checking, that information is available almost instantly.” Beginning this year, hunters are required to get a permanent DNR identification number which allows them to check in their game from their phones at 1-844-WVCHECK, their computers at wvhunt.com, or at one of more than 170 official license agent/checking stations across the state. “Hunters are showing us that they have easily adopted the new system and like using it to check in their game,” Ryan said. “It’s fast and easy for them, and it makes important information available to DNR on a much timelier basis. Hunters are reminded to get their DNR ID numbers before they go hunting so they can use the new electronic check system right away. This includes lifetime license holders, resident youth under the age of 15 who don’t need a license, and resident landowners who normally do not have to purchase a license to hunt on their own property.” Hunters can call or visit a license agent or DNR district office or log on
Ohio Valley Outdoors -Photo courtesy of WV Dept. of Commerce
to wvhunt.com to obtain their DNR ID number, which is valid for the hunter’s lifetime. That number will be printed on the top of the license for those who buy a license each year. Lifetime license holders may call a DNR district office or the Elkins or South Charleston offices between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to obtain their DNR ID number, which has already been assigned. “Although hunters no longer have to bring the animal in with them to be checked, what doesn’t change is that hunters and trappers still have to follow the time, field tagging and transportation restrictions as listed in the regulations,” according to Ryan. Father From Page 2
forget drinks. Number six is “More Than Once”. That’s obviously a good way to keep kids interested in the outdoors, keep taking them out there. “Take them into the woods to hang treestands, move trail cameras or look through the trail camera pictures,” advises Curran. Number seven is: “It’s Not for Everyone”. That makes sense. “Don’t put pressure on a kid,” says Curran. “Let them come along at their own pace.” You want to leave a favorable impression of hunting, he adds. The final three items on Curran’s list are: “Discuss”, “Participate” and “Timing”. All three are very good points to make when trying to get and keep kids outdoors. Talk through the highlights of your hunts with kids; let them play a key role in the experience, keep the hunts short in duration and try to finish on a “high note”. Chris Snoderly has definitely done that with both of his daughters. Congratulations to the Snoderly family!
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Promising Bear Season Awaits in PA
HARRISBURG, PA — A sizable black-bear population awaits hunters in the state’s upcoming bear seasons, which during recent years have been some of the best on record for Pennsylvania bear hunting. The annual seasons will kick off with the statewide archery bear season, which opens November 16. And after that five-day season comes to a close on Nov. 20, properly licensed hunters who still are in pursuit of a bear can participate in the four-day general season that opens Nov. 21, then runs from Nov. 23 to Nov. 25. Extended opportunities to hunt bears during all or a portion of the deer-hunting seasons also exist in much of the state. There’s been plenty of reason to get excited about bear hunting in recent years. The 2014 statewide harvest of 3,366 bears represents the seventh-largest in state history, and continues a string of recent bear seasons taking their place in the record books. Bears were taken in 56 of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties in 2014. Nine of Pennsylvania’s largest black-bear harvests have occurred in the past 10 years. In fact, since 2005, more than 34,000 bears have been taken by hunters here. Mark Ternent, the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s bear biologist, said many of the elements required for another exceptional bear harvest in 2015 already are in place. Statewide black-bear populations remain stable at record levels, Ternent said, with an estimated 18,000 bears living within the Keystone State. Hunter participation also is expected to be high. Last year, a record number of hunters purchased a bear license, and upwards of 175,000 hunters are likely to be licensed again this year if that trend continues. New this year, bear licenses
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can now be purchased at any time before the last season closes, replacing the previous requirement that bear licenses had to be purchased before opening day of the statewide general or extended seasons. Ternent said that increased hunter participation typically leads to larger harvests and, in some cases, better hunter success. Find the Food Ternent said fall food conditions can influence success. “Abundant acorn crops typically lead to better hunter success,” Ternent said. “When food is plentiful in the fall, bears tend to stay more active during hunting seasons, rather than entering their dens early. They also tend to be more predictable and travel less, which means that bears discovered during preseason scouting typically still can be found in the same area come hunting season. “Preliminary results from ongoing fall-foods surveys suggest that acorn crops are average or better in much of the bear range this year, although conditions are spotty,” Ternent said. “In many areas, fall apple crops and late summer berry crops also were excellent. However, scouting prospective areas before hunting season to assess food availability is really the best advice.” Game Commission Executive Director R. Matthew Hough said perhaps no other hunting season in Pennsylvania is as rich with tradition as the annual statewide bear season. Hough said the fact that a record number of bear licenses likely will be sold this year reinforces that point, and shows it’s no longer a secret that Pennsylvania provides some of the best bear-hunting opportunities out there. “The pieces are all in place for yet another banner year of bear hunting in PennsylvaTurn To Bear Page 12
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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November 2015
Bear From Page 11
The largest, taken in Potter County in 2013, ties for 28th place all-time in the firearms category, with a skull measurement of 22-3/16 inches. D’Angelo reminds bear hunters who are interesting in getting bear skulls scored for the records to ensure that their butchers or taxidermists do not saw off the back of the skull during processing. Before getting a skull scored, all flesh and membrane must be removed prior to measuring, and official measurements cannot be taken until a minimum of 60 days of drying has elapsed. This 60-day drying period begins the day after the skull is completely cleaned. Hunters also must remember to not glue the lower jaw to the skull, because the two required measurements are taken on the top part of the skull. Additional Opportunities To suppress conflicts that might arise from bear populations expanding into more inhabited parts of the state, an extended bear season exists in a handful of Wildlife Management Units. In WMUs 2B, 5B, 5C and 5D, bear season is open concurrent to the archery, early muzzleloader and firearms deer seasons. And hunters in other WMUs also have a limited opportunity to harvest a bear during portions of the up-
coming firearms deer season. Those areas include WMUs 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D (Nov. 30 through Dec. 5), and WMUs 2C, 4B, 4C, 4D, and 4E (Dec. 2 through Dec. 5). A complete list of opening and closing days can be found on Page 44 of the 2015-16 Pennsylvania Hunting & Trapping Digest issued to hunters when they purchase their licenses, or at the Game Commission’s website, www.pgc.state. pa.us. All bear harvests must be reported to the Game Commission and checked. Hunters who harvest a bear during the four-day general season must take it to one of the Game Commission’s check stations within 24 hours. Taking bears to a check station also might be required in WMUs where bear hunting is permitted during all or a portion of the firearms deer season. A complete list of requirements, check stations and their dates and hours of operation can be found on pages 45 and 46 of the 2015-16 Pennsylvania Hunting & Trapping Digest. What’s Required? To participate in bear hunting in Pennsylvania, a hunter needs a general hunting license, as well as a bear license. Bear hunters also must follow fluores-
cent orange requirements. In the bear archery season, hunters are required at all times while moving to wear a hat containing a minimum of 100 square inches of solid fluorescent orange material if hunting in an area also open to fall-turkey hunting. The hat may be removed once the archer has settled in a stationary position. During any bear firearms seasons, hunters must wear a minimum of 250 square inches of fluorescent orange material on the head, chest and back combined. The orange must be visible from 360 degrees and worn at all times while hunting. Hunting licenses can be purchased online from The Outdoor Shop at the Game Commission’s website, but buyers should be advised that because bear licenses contain harvest ear tags, they are sent by mail rather than printed at home. Buyers waiting until the last minute to purchase a bear license might be better off making a trip to an authorized licensing agent and picking up a license there. Licensing agents can be searched by county at the Game Commission’s website, www.pgc.state.pa.us, under the “Hunt/Trap” tab.
CWD Rules Expand in PA
Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director R. Matthew Hough said the updated rules better protect Pennsylvania from high-risk parts that might come from out-of-state harvests. Managing CWD to protect Pennsylvania’s deer and elk requires changes based on changing circumstances, Hough said. The boundaries of Disease Management Areas within Pennsylvania are adjusted in response to new cases of CWD. And the prohibition on importing high-risk cervid parts is extended to other states as cases are identified there Hough said applying the importation ban to all of Maryland, New York, Virginia and West Virginia is a necessary change, explaining the partial bans previously in place were difficult to enforce. “The ban on the importation of highrisk cervid parts exists to provide the best protection possible to Pennsylvania’s deer and elk, and hunters can help us prevent CWD from spreading,” Hough said. “We understand that Pennsylvania hunters, and especially those
who live near the state’s borders, frequently travel across state lines to hunt deer or other cervids. This expanded ban will inconvenience them, just as successful hunters traveling out of Pennsylvania’s Disease Management Areas are inconvenienced. “The introduction and spread of CWD in our wild-deer population is a serious issue,” Hough said. “The consequences of spreading CWD has potential to jeopardize the future of deer hunting in Pennsylvania. We need your help to minimize the impacts of CWD in our state.” Now that the updated order has taken effect, there are a total of 22 states and two Canadian provinces from which high-risk cervid parts cannot be imported into Pennsylvania. The parts ban affects hunters who harvest deer, elk, moose, mule deer and other cervids in: Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota,
Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming; as well as the Canadian provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan. Those harvesting cervids in the identified states and provinces must leave behind the carcass parts that have the highest risk for transmitting CWD. Those parts are: the head (including brain, tonsils, eyes and any lymph nodes); spinal cord/backbone; spleen; skull plate with attached antlers, if visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present; cape, if visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present; upper canine teeth, if root structure or other soft tissue is present; any object or article containing visible brain or spinal cord tissue; unfinished taxide. Hunters who are successful in those states and provinces from which the importation of high-risk parts into Pennsylvania is banned are allowed to import meat from any deer, elk, moose, mule deer or caribou, so long as the backbone is not present.
nia,” Hough said. “Only time will tell if a record number of hunters will bring about a record harvest. “But I can guarantee all who celebrate our hunting heritage in this special season have a chance to harvest an exceptional animal.” Trophy Bruins Ternent agrees that some very large bears await hunters in Penn’s Woods. In fact, the number of large bears taken during 2014 is one of the things that made that seventh-highest harvest year stand out. There were 41 bears that weighed 500 pounds or more in the 2014 harvest. Three reached more than 600 pounds. The largest, a 677-pounder, was taken by James M. Hultberg, of Pittsfield, in Warren County during the bear archery season. The bear is not listed yet in Pennsylvania’s Big Game Records book. Bob D’Angelo, who coordinates the state’s Big Game Records program, said 22 bears – two taken with archery equipment – were added to the state record book in 2015. Sixteen also qualified for the Boone & Crockett Club record book, he said.
HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvanians who hunt deer, elk or other cervids out-of-state might be affected by newly updated rules that prohibit the importation of specific high-risk cervid parts into Pennsylvania from states and provinces where chronic wasting disease has been detected. Ohio has been added to the list of states from which high-risk cervid parts – including the head and backbone – cannot be imported into Pennsylvania. The addition is in response to chronic wasting disease (CWD) being detected in Ohio for the first time in 2014. Additionally, the import of high-risk cervid parts into Pennsylvania from the entire states of Maryland, New York, Virginia and West Virginia is now prohibited. Previously, the prohibition applied only to portions of those states in which CWD had been identified in captive or wild cervids.
November 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Walleye Hatch Index is Best in 12 Years
COLUMBUS, OH — The Lake Erie walleye hatch is one of the largest in recent history according to fisheries biologists with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Results from combined Ontario and Ohio surveys show that the 2015 hatch index is the highest since 2003. The excellent hatch should start to show up as catchable fish in the next three years. “With these hatch index results, we are expecting the walleye fishing in Lake Erie in the next three to five years to be exceptional,” said ODNR Director James Zehringer. “This is outstanding news for Ohio anglers and out-of-state anglers who enjoy fishing on Lake Erie, the Walleye Capital of the World.” To estimate the basin-wide hatch of walleye, ODNR and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry combine their bottom trawl survey data. The resulting basin-wide average catch for 2015 is 84 walleye from the spring hatch per hectare (about 2.5 acres), which is well above the long-term average of 32 per hectare. The 2015 yellow perch hatch also ap-
pears to have been successful in both Ohio and Ontario waters of the western. This is the fifth-best yellow perch hatch in the western basin since the interagency survey began in 1987. “Three good yellow perch hatches in a row should help the perch population in the western basin rebuild and lead to quality yellow perch fishing over the next couple of years,” said Jeff Tyson, head of Lake Erie Fisheries Program for the ODNR Division of Wildlife. Each year in August, wildlife agencies from around the western basin of Lake Erie sample the waters using bottom trawls in search of young of the year walleye and yellow perch. Data from these bottom trawls are combined into a basin-wide index and compared to previous years to estimate the success of the walleye and yellow perch hatches. This provides biologists with an estimate on how many young fish will enter the fishable population two years later. Information on the ODNR Division of Wildlife’s Lake Erie research and management programs, fisheries resources, fishing reports, and maps and links to
ODNR Reminds Fall Boaters How to Stay Safe
COLUMBUS, OH — Even as cooler nights lead to falling water temperatures across the state, the days can still be perfect for paddling and boating on Ohio’s lakes, rivers and streams. In an effort to reduce late season boating accidents from exposure to cold water, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is prompting boaters statewide to enjoy fall color while boating, but to be aware of the dangers associated with cold water and to always wear a life jacket when on the water. “Properly loading your boat, dressing for the air and water temperature and wearing a life jacket are especially important in the late fall when waters are very cold,” said Mike Miller, chief of the ODNR Division of Watercraft. Late season boaters and anglers tend to dress according to air temperatures, but it can be easy to forget that water temperatures in Ohio’s lakes and streams may have dropped due to cooler fall nights. Information regarding boating safety and tips for avoiding hypothermia are available at water-
craft.ohiodnr.gov/safetytips. More than one-third of Ohio’s boating-related fatalities from 2010-2014 resulted from people falling overboard and boats capsizing or swamping. Operation Overboard is a statewide boating safety campaign that emphasizes the dangers associated with overloaded and improperly loaded boats that can become swamped and capsize in frigid waters. It also reminds boaters to always properly wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when on the water. Ohio boaters are encouraged to get outside and take advantage of the beauty of this season. The brilliance of fall color adds to the enjoyment of boating. Powerboating and paddling provide excellent opportunities for people to take in the wonderful colors of fall from a unique viewpoint from their boats. The ODNR Division of Watercraft is responsible for boating safety, education and law enforcement on all waters of the state. This statewide area includes the nearshore area along 451 miles of the Ohio River, half of Lake Erie, more than 605 inland lakes and more.
other Lake Erie Web resources are available at wildohio.gov. ODNR ensures a balance between
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wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Treestands, Blinds Need to be Tagged in PA
HARRISBURG, PA — If you harvest a deer, you’re required to tag it. And if you harvest it from a tree stand that was left on state game lands or other properties controlled by the Pennsylvania Game Commission, that stand, too, must be tagged. With hunting season underway, hunters are reminded a regulation that became effective earlier this year requires all tree stands and portable ground blinds left on lands under the Game Commission’s control be marked to identify their owners. The regulation applies on game lands, as well as on private lands enrolled in the Hunter Access program. All of these properties can be found on the State Game Lands Mapping Center at the Game Commission’s website, www.pgc.state.pa.us. Here is a look at how the regulation applies to hunters. Does my stand or blind need to be tagged? Hunters are permitted to place portable tree stands and blinds on state game lands and Hunter Access properties and leave them there temporarily. Stands and blinds may be placed no
earlier than two weeks before the first deer season in the wildlife management unit (WMU) being hunted, and they must be removed no later than two weeks after the close of the last deer season in that WMU. Overnight placement of portable hunting blinds additionally is permitted during the spring turkey season within the WMU being hunted. Regulations now require any tree stand or blind left overnight or longer on state game lands or Hunter Access properties be marked with a durable tag bearing information that identifies its owner. Tagging stands or blinds Stands or blinds left temporarily on state game lands and Hunter Access properties must be conspicuously marked with a durable and legible identification tag that includes either the owner’s first and last name and legal home address, the CID number appearing on the owner’s hunting license, or a number issued by the Game Commission to the stand or blind owner. Any of the three methods of identifying the owner is acceptable. Unique numbers identifying the stand or blind owner can be obtained at The
Outdoor Shop on the Game Commission’s website, www.pgc.state.pa.us. Once at The Outdoor Shop, click on “Permits,” select “Tree Stand Identification Number” and fill out the electronic form. There is no cost to obtain a number. Hunters can tag stands or blinds in any manner that meets the requirements the tags be durable, legible and conspicuously marked. A hunter could engrave his or her CID number onto a metal tag and wire it to the stand or ladder, or do the same with a painted plastic tag. Many methods will meet requirements. Why are stands and blinds now required to be tagged? The regulation to require tree stands and blinds to be marked with information identifying their owners serves to address the problem of the stands too often becoming permanent fixtures on some of these properties. When stands are placed out earlier than allowed on state game lands and Hunter Access properties, or are not removed as required following the close of the final deer season, the stands may be taken down by Game Commission personnel. But without a way to contact the owner, the stands typically must be
November 2015
stored and, eventually, disposed of if the owner does not come forward. Requiring all stands and blinds left on state game lands and Hunter Access properties be tagged provides the Game Commission with a mechanism to contact the owners if stands are placed too early or left out too long. Violating the requirement to tag tree stands and blinds left on Game Commission-controlled property is punishable by a fine up to $200. Game Commission-controlled property The requirement for hunters to tag tree stands and blinds left overnight applies on state game lands and private lands enrolled in the Game Commission’s Hunter Access program. Lands enrolled in the Hunter Access program might be known as Forest Game, Farm Game or Safety Zone access properties. All of these tracts appear on maps available through the State Game Lands Mapping Center at the Game Commission’s website, www.pgc.state.pa.us. The State Game Lands Mapping Center can be accessed by clicking on the “State Game Lands Mapping Center” button at the top of the home page at the Game Commission’s website.
November 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Reaching Out to the Next Generation
WASHINGTON, D.C. — More than 60,000 high school and college Future Farmers of America (FFA) members and alumni gathered in Louisville, Ky., on October 28-31 to celebrate youth leadership in agriculture. For the fourth consecutive year, Ducks Unlimited and other supporting organizations had a big presence at the 88th annual Future Farmers of America (FFA) National Convention and Expo to spread the word about DU’s wetlands and waterfowl conservation mission to the next generation of conservationists. “Interacting with thousands of young people who share our core values - stewardship of the land, conservation of natural resources and a love of waterfowling - is truly inspiring,” said Mark Horobetz, Manager of Youth and Education Programs for Ducks Unlimited. “Every year, this event excites me about the future of conservation. Engaging with these youth leaders continues to be an important part of Ducks Unlimited’s youth program.” DU staff and
volunteers traveled from around the country to connect with the FFA students. They shared knowledge about wetlands conservation, DU projects and information regarding DU’s Varsity (high school) and University programs. Along with informational material, including internship opportunities, DU distributed backpacks, decals and other merchandise for the students to take home. “I want to thank Ducks Unlimited for being here and sharing their conservation mission with our students,” said Arne Anderson, Ag-Science teacher and FFA advisor at Centennial High School in Utica, Nebraska. “I try and instill those same principles in my students and welcome opportunities, like the FFA Convention, for them to appreciate the habitat and get involved in taking care of it.” This year, DU partnered with corporate supporter Purina Pro Plan to provide a one-of-a-kind experience at the convention. Attendees took photos in a duck
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blind replica and posed for photos with a Purina Pro Plan dog, Fin, a 3-year-old yellow lab. As a way to connect with the students and spread the conservation message, DU encouraged attendees to share their photos on social media platforms using various hashtags including #duckdog #proplandog #speakag and #ducksunlimited. Photos from the event were also shared on DU’s official twitter and instagram accounts. For more information, visit www.ducks.org. Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 13 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Connect with us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/DucksUnlimited, follow our tweets at www.twitter.com/DucksUnlimited and watch DU videos at www.youtube.com/DucksUnlimitedInc.
15 WV Trappers Must Use New System
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — All trappers in West Virginia are reminded they must now obtain a WVDNR identification number and use the new electronic game checking system to record their catches (beaver, bobcat, fisher and otter) within 30 days after the close of the respective season. DNR ID numbers can be obtained from DNR district offices or a hunting and trapping license agent. When trappers check in their game using the new system, they will be given a 13-digit game check confirmation number for each animal. That number shall be recorded on a field tag or sheet of paper along with the trapper’s name and address, and shall remain attached to each pelt or whole animal until sold, tanned or processed into commercial fur or mounted. Information provided by hunters and trappers when checking game is used to monitor harvests and to assist in the future management of these different species in West Virginia. The DNR advises trappers to obtain a CITES seal for each bobcat and otter pelt from animals harvested in West Virginia.
Audubon Society Now Offers Free Mobile App
NEW YORK, NY —The National Audubon Society has released an updated Audubon Birds Pro mobile app available via iTunes, Google Play and Amazon at no cost. The app includes an 821-species checklist from the American Ornithologists Union (AOU) and is the first time a complete field guide to North American birds is available for free mobile download. With the Audubon Bird Guide, one can: • Identify 821 species with in-depth descriptions including information on appearance, habitat, behavior and more. • Explore a gallery of more than 3,200 images from the world-renown VIREO, Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University’s world-wide collection of bird photography. • Listen to up to eight hours of bird calls, differentiated by region and season. • Access robust seasonal and migratory range maps. • Browse species in a gallery view and filter by shape, region and color, aiding quick identification.
• Use “Find Birds with eBird” to locate birds seen recently in the vicinity, drawing on the continuously updated database from the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology and eBird. • Post, keep lists and share sightings with friends and followers with Audubon NatureShare’s easy and userfriendly interface. To learn more about how to use this complete and free bird guide, please visit www.audubon.org/apps. The National Audubon Society saves birds and their habitats throughout the Americas using science, advocacy, education and on-the-ground conservation. Audubon’s state programs, nature centers, chapters and partners have an unparalleled wingspan that reaches millions of people each year to inform, inspire and unite diverse communities in conservation action. Since 1905, Audubon’s vision has been a world in which people and wildlife thrive. Audubon is a nonprofit conservation organization. Learn more at www.audubon.org and @audubonsoci ety.
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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Tommy Chaffin 9pt. buck, crossbow Columbiana County, OH
Tom Chaffin 11pt. buck, crossbow Columbiana County, OH
Alayna Sutherin, age 9 1st deer Jefferson County, OH
November 2015
Conner Ogden 10" beard, 1-1/4" spurs Washington County, OH
Marvin Aeschbacher II 21 lbs., 1" spurs, 9 1/2" beard Columbiana County, OH
Send Us Your Photos
Rod Mayle PA gobbler Champion
Cameron Nemcik gobbler 2" spurs Trumbull County, OH
Jessie French, age 13 1st. rabbit Wauseon, OH
We’ll print your hunting, fishing or trapping photos in the next issue of OV Times or Ohio Valley Outdoors magazine. Send photos via mail, email or Facebook.
Email to: ohvod@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com Mail to: Photo Showcase 210 East Fourth St., East Liverpool, OH 43920
November 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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Tim Baker 20lbs., 9.5" beard, 1" spurs
Colton Malone, age 5 bluegill, Highlandtown Lake, Columbiana County, OH
Isabella Sahli, age 7 15" crappie Pine Lake, Mahoning County, OH
Dave Scarsella Jr. coyote Columbiana, County, OH
Zach Malone largemouth bass Columbiana County, OH
Christopher Warrick, age 7 bass Paradise Lake
Mark Householder 1st buck Columbiana County, OH
Jordan Macintyre largemouth WV
Carolyn McCloy Crappie Private Pond, WV
Joey Kinsley Jeremy McCloy largemouth bass, WV
Justin McCloy & Olivia largemouth bass WV
Jerod McCloy & Kolten largemouth bass WV
November 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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Ohio Valley Outdoors
November 2015
Pumpkin Bird Feeder; A Great Idea
By Audubon.org Halloween, harvest festivals, and general autumnal celebrations lead to an abundance of everyone’s fall favorite: pumpkins. While you partake in pumpkin spice lattes and jack-o-lantern carvings, why not share some gourd indulgences with the birds? This bird feeder is the perfect use of an extra or post-trick-or-treat pumpkin. Materials: • Small to medium sized pumpkin, up
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
to 10 pounds • Small sticks • Twine or rope • Birdseed Steps: 1. Cut the pumpkin in half. 2. Scoop out the seeds, leaving a hollow inside with 1/2-inch thick shell wall. 3. Insert two sticks across the open pumpkin to create perches for the birds. 4. Knot two lengths of rope together at the center and tack the knot to the bottom of the pumpkin feeder. Hang the other ends of the rope in your chosen feeder location. 5. Fill with birdseed.
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of Audubon Society
Leftover pumpkins can be made into a clever bird feeder for your back yard. Be creative and follow these guidelines.
Send us your t rophy photos
Brian Woods 10-pt. buck Shelby County, OH
For our Photo Showcase Connor Mayle turkey Trumbull County, OH
email to: ohvod@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com mail to: Photo Showcase 210 East Fourth St. East Liverpool, OH 43920
www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
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Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of Bill Shetler
This hawk is working hard to eliminate the coyote population near Calcutta, OH. A trail camera, owned by Bill Shetler, caught this image of the hawk attacking a coyote pup between Sprucevale Road and Beaver Creek State Park in August of this year.