WIN A PARKER CROSSBOW - P.10-11
Cool Water Fishing Tips Story inside page 6
Deer Season in Review… and A Prediction for this Winter OV Outdoor Times
The rut. It’s one of the most fascinating yet misunderstood aspects in the world of whitetails. Every season, hunters ask, “When will the rut start this year?” Over the years, many theo- By Ralph Scherder ries have been devel- Hunting Editor oped to try to predict the beginning and intensity of the rut and when will be the best times to hunt. Sometimes, though, what really happened and when the rut took place can only be determined after most of the breeding has been done. A number of hunters I talked to this season claimed that the rut was going to start earlier than usual, and it certainly seemed that way. Personally, I witnessed rutting activity first week of October. I observed small bucks nosing around and harassing several does and on one occasion a light-hearted sparring match between year-and-a-half-old bucks. On October 11th, I encountered a very
Ohio Valley
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Outdoor Times
December 2015
nice 10-point that was coming to an apple tree every night. There was an active scrape by the tree and before climbing into my stand that evening, I freshened it up with doe-in-estrus. By the time the buck got there, it was almost too dark to see and I had no shot. However, I watched through binoculars, which have excellent light gathering qualities, as the buck worked that scrape and licking branch with a passion. On October 15th, that buck came in 10 minutes earlier, while it was still light, and I got the shot I wanted. The buck followed two does out of some thick brush onto a tractor trail. It checked the does and lunged at them a couple of times before the does finally had enough and scampered away. Rather than follow, though, he turned and came to the apple tree. I shot and the buck piled up only 50 yards away. I knew the buck had a nice rack but wasn’t prepared for the size of its body, especially its neck which was rutswollen and maxed out. Also, its tarsal glands had the characteristic dark fur and smell of a rutting buck. The main reason I observed rutting activity so early was because of the weather. After a warm stretch of weather in late September, it cooled off substantially the first week of October and stayed cool until the middle of the month. The change got deer moving and feeling frisky. Around the third week of October, though, the weather shifted Turn To Deer Season Page 4
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of Ralph Scherder
The author with his 10-point buck, taken on October 15, 2015. “I knew the buck had a nice rack but wasn’t prepared for the size of its body, especially its neck which was rut-swollen and maxed out.”
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INSIDE THIS MONTH 13
Ohio Young Hunters Harvest 7,000+ Deer
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PA Hunters Reminded to Report Deer & Turkey Harvests
ODNR
The Magic of Getting Un-snagged
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Jeff Knapp
PA Mentored Youth Can Hunt Rabbits, Doves
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December 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
PAGC
14
PAGC
Forest Service Releases i-Tree Tool
15
USFS
Ohio Hunters Harvest 1,500 Turkeys
Study Shows Continued Growth of Archery
12 ODNR Takes
Action to Monitor CWD
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Book of Trapping Featured
OUTDOOR CALENDAR
Public Trap Shoot - Each Sunday (11-4 p.m.) and Wednesday (6-9 p.m.) 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. thru April 26, 2016. (6 p.m., Sun. 11 am.) and Indoor Pistol Shooting - each Fri. (7-10 p.m.) thru April 29, 2016. All calibers except mag loads. At Columbiana County Fish and Game Association; 45716 Middle Beaver Rd, Lisbon, OH 44432. Visit website: columbianacountyfishandgame.com. Old Fashion Style Turkey Shoot - Each Sunday thru March 2016 at Beaver Creek Sportsman Club, 14480 Washingtonville Road, Washingtonville, OH. Field stock guns, .680 choke max., scopes permitted, meat and money rounds, $3 per round, 1 p.m. start time. For info. contact Tom Brunner 330692-6577 or email:tbrunner1020@gmail.com. *See more Calendar of Events on Page 7.
Ohio Valley
GunTV Shopping Network to Launch...No Kidding!
We need one more TV shopping network. Right? Before you say, “NO”, listen up! It’s all about GUNS! Now you’re paying attention. Why didn’t I think of this? It’s called GunTV, By Larry Claypool or GTV Live Shopping. Editor And this is for real! And going online, well television actually and online, in a few weeks (January 2016). GunTV is modeled after shopping network channels QVC and Home Shopping Network. A big difference for GunTV will be a focus geared toward a male audience. That is not to say, however, that only men will be making the purchases on this new network. We all know that outdoor products now also have a greater appeal toward females who are spending more and more time in the outdoors. This brings up two good points about the new network. Firstly, GTV Live Shopping’s product lines will go beyond just firearms. More on that below. Secondly, we know it won’t only be men watching these fancy multimedia presentations. I predict we’ll all get sucked into watching these broadcasts. And who cares who will be making the purchases. It should be entertaining television. And if not, it beats watching reruns of Two and a Half Men. If not for any other reason to tune in, I feel a good portion of us will watch GunTV just to see new, shiny guns and other trinkets and accessories. Let’s be honest, you’re in! Now the ‘beyond the firearms’ part. And hopefully this won’t dilute it for those just wanting to see more guns. There are plans to sell many, many types of outdoor products on GunTV, including: all types of (legal) firearms, gun and shooting accessories, archery equipment, hunting gear, tactical gear, hunting clothing, game calls, treestands, trail cameras, decoys, dog training supplies, knives/tools, fishing and boating gear, hiking and camping OV Outdoor Times
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equipment, and much more. All of the above products will not be sold when the network launches but co-founder Valarie Castle said the programming will appeal to the gun-loving fans. Their slogan is, “Live Shopping. Fully Loaded”. Castle said the goal of GTV Live Shopping will be to expand to a 24/7 lineup in its first year. They will start out with four hours of programming a day, late night in a 1-5 a.m. time slot. It appears that GTV is leaving no stone unturned with ramping up the new project. They plan to offer a ‘social broadcasting platform’, streaming on social networks to capitalize on mobile, text/sms, push and social media networks with ‘real time’ planning and placement capabilities. They also plan contests and engaging interaction with their customers. The idea for the firearms shopping channel was envisioned to appeal to gun companies, according to Castle. They wanted a new venue to advertise their products. I doubt that. This is all about making money. Now, if you think about all of the outdoor products — not just guns — that are manufactured in the United States that may be interested in hawking goods on GunTV, that could be interesting and entertaining. And very profitable for many companies. GunTV will be broadcast from its home in Palm Springs, California. As of early December they were still seeking employees to fill some jobs with the new network. I found one job posting most interesting: Props/Firearms Wrangler. The job description says: “Television network seeks experienced prop person to manage the constant flow of props and firearms for busy on-air television network.” Note: California is very tough on gun laws, but no firearms will be sold from that state. Interested guns buyers will be directed to a Louisiana gun dealer, Sports South, who will then dispatch the weapon to your local FFL dealer to complete the transaction. For additional information on GunTV, and to see job postings, visit their website at: http://guntv.tv/. Also click, “Media Kit”, for detailed information.
To Advertise CALL 330-385-2243 Publisher/Editor, Larry Claypool lclaypool@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
Outdoor Times
Graphics Designer, Linda McKenzie lmckenzie@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
December 2015 VOL. 7, NO. 12
is published by Ohio Valley Outdoors Magazine
Offices located at
Ohio Valley Outdoor Times
210 E. 4th Street, East Liverpool, OH 43920 Phone 330-385-2243, Fax 330-385-7114 ohvod@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
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Sales Consultant, Tracy Bissell tbissell@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com advertising@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
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
December 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
gun hunt in December with estimates for days hunters plan to hunt during muzzleloader and late archery seasons. For additional information, visit the ODNR’s COLUMBUS, OH — The first-ever website: www.wildohio.gov/dmu. goal-setting survey involving Ohio’s adult resident deer hunters was recently Deer Season From Page 1 mailed from the Ohio Department of Natback to warm again and deer movement ural Resources, Division of Wildlife. The tapered off until the week of Halloween, letters went out on November 30, 2105. which is the traditional start of rut activA similar survey was mailed in Septemity in this part of the country. ber to the state’s production landowners. Many outdoor writers have touted the The letter and survey comes from the ofimportance of moon phases on the rut. fice of Michael J. Tonkovich, Ph.D., Deer Program Administrator for the ODNR. Theories state that the closer the full The survey will help determine deer moon falls to November 1, the more inpopulation goals for Ohio. A letter at- tense the rut will be. The farther from tached to the survey says, “Your partici- the first that it occurs, the more sporadic pation is vital, as it will help shape the it will be. To an extent, I think this is future of Ohio’s deer management poli- true, but I don’t believe that the actual cies. In the past, surveys of farmers have moon phase has anything to do with rut been used to set deer population goals. intensity. Rather, I believe that moon Hunters will now also have an opportu- phase affects the weather, which in turn nity to participate in the goal-setting affects whitetail movement. The other school of thought claims process. that photoperiodism signals the start of The letter outlines a few things about the rut. I tend to agree with this more the survey that may be helpful before than anything. After all, photoperihunters start. Since the hunting season is odism, or the shortening of daylight, is already underway, hunters will need to what causes deer, waterfowl, upland estimate the number of days they’ve albirds, and furbearers to transition from ready bowhunted. Plan to return the survey after the 2-day their summer coats to winter coats. A
Goal-Setting Survey Sent to Ohio Deer Hunters
raccoon, for instance, will be prime in this part of the country roughly first week of November regardless of whether the temperature is 30 degrees or 80 degrees. Years of trapping and predator hunting have taught me that temperature has nothing to do with fur quality, and it certainly doesn’t have anything to do with whitetails growing their own winter coats, so why would it affect the rut as much as some suggest? The fact is, regardless of moon phase or photoperiodism, if the weather is right, deer movement increases. If the weather is unseasonably warm, deer movement decreases. Warm weather during the rut can inspire two things: lots of nighttime rutting activity (when the temperature is cooler) and prolonged rutting activity. In other words, one day you may see bucks chasing does like crazy, and the next day you can see those same bucks acting like they just don’t give a hoot. Also, you’re more likely to see rutting activity occur much later in the season than usual. And that’s exactly how this season played out according to my personal observations, as well as the many hunters I’ve talked to this fall. When rutting activity is sporadic and spaced out over a longer duration, it tends to be less intense. Some does can
December 2015
actually come into estrus and go out of estrus without being bred, especially in areas of high deer densities. There simply isn’t enough time for bucks to breed every receptive doe. This can be good news for late season hunters because many of those does, especially the yearlings that finally reach the necessary body weight to breed, will come back into estrus approximately 30 days later. This second rut, though less intense than the first, can be a great time to hunt. Taking advantage of second rut activity often means locating doe groups – especially doe groups that have yearlings – and pinpointing winter food sources. After the stress of the first rut in November, many bucks simply don’t have the energy or ambition to chase tail all over the countryside in late December. However, they will have a knack for putting themselves in the same areas as those does they know will eventually come back into estrus, and that usually means frequenting winter food sources. Based on the unseasonably warm weather we experienced this fall, and the sporadic nature of the rut, I’m predicting excellent second rut activity this year. If you haven’t tagged your buck yet, now could be the perfect time to get into the woods.
PA Big Game Records Book Available
HARRISBURG, PA — Do you hunt deer or bear and want to know where the big ones are being taken. Check out the 2015 edition of the Pennsylvania Big Game Records book, which is now on sale. The 2015 Pennsylvania Big Game Records book contains more than 4,000 entries in 10 categories: Typical and nontypical deer taken with firearms and archery equipment, black bears taken with firearms and archery equipment, and typical and nontypical elk taken with firearms and archery equipment. A few of the trophies listed in the records were taken 100 or more years ago, but many others have been taken in recent years. Where in Pennsylvania can you find the top counties for trophy whitetails? Some of the answers might surprise you. The 2015 records book is available for $6, plus shipping, plus 6 percent sales tax. Make checks payable to and order from: Pennsylvania Game Commission, Dept. MS, 2001 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg, PA 17110-9797; visit “The Out-
door Shop” at www.pgc.state.pa.us or call 1-888-888-3459 to make purchases with your credit card, or stop by the Game Commission’s Harrisburg headquarters to pick up a copy.
COMING SOON Already listed in the record book? Big-game hunters who are listed in the Pennsylvania records book will want to bag a special patch signifying being a member of this exclusive fraternity. The record-book patch design, which features a bull elk, bear and buck on a Keystone State outline, was crafted by well-known graphic designer Mark Anderson. This patch is available only to those trophy owners who are listed in the record book, and is sure to become a highly collectible and coveted item. Patches are $10, plus shipping cost, plus sales tax. Funds from the sale of these patches will be used to support the Big Game Scoring Program.
December 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Ohio’s Young Hunters Harvest 7,000+ Deer
COLUMBUS, OH — Ohio’s young hunters checked 7,223 white-tailed deer during the two-day youth gun season, November 21-22, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). “The weather this year provided our youth hunters with a great opportunity to enjoy their time in the field,” said ODNR Director James Zehringer. “Providing exclusive youth hunting seasons is a great way to provide our kids with a mentored and educational environment to learn and succeed in the field.” Youth hunters could pursue deer with a legal shotgun, muzzleloader, handgun or specific straight-walled cartridge rifle and were required to be accompanied by a non-hunting adult during the two-day season. The youth deer-gun season is one of four special youth-only hunting seasons designed to offer a dedicated hunting experience for young hunters. Youth hunting seasons are available for small game, wild turkey and waterfowl. Ohio offers many more opportunities for hunters of all ages to pursue deer. The deer-gun season opened Nov. 30Dec. 6, and continues Dec. 28-29. Deermuzzleloader season is Jan. 9-12, 2016.
Deer-archery season is open now through Feb. 7, 2016. Find complete details in the 2015-2016 Ohio Hunting and Trapping Regulations at wildohio.gov. Youth hunters can commemorate their hunt with a First Harvest certificate, available at wildohio.gov. The goal of Ohio’s Deer Management Program is to provide a deer population that maximizes recreational opportunities, while minimizing conflicts with landowners and motorists. In most counties, deer populations are at or near target levels. Therefore, to help stabilize deer populations, bag limits were reduced, and antlerless permit use has been eliminated in most counties for the 2015-2016 season. In general, deer hunters will likely find deer populations similar to last year. However, because of the regulation changes (smaller bag limits and limited availability of antlerless permits), fewer antlerless deer will be harvested, and the overall deer harvest will likely be down 4-8 percent. For summaries of past deer seasons, visit wildohio.gov/deerharvest. ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural
resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov. A county list of all white-tailed deer checked by youth hunters using a shotgun, muzzleloader, handgun or straightwalled cartridge rifle during the 2015 youth deer-gun hunting season includes: Adams: 170; Allen: 44; Ashland: 149; Ashtabula: 147; Athens: 169; Belmont: 167; Brown: 100; Carroll: 140; Champaign: 47; Clermont: 65; Columbiana: 122; Coshocton: 258; Cuyahoga: 0; Darke: 21; Defiance: 75; Erie: 17; Fairfield: 79; Gallia: 124; Geauga: 39; Greene: 18; Guernsey: 188; Hamilton: 13; Hancock: 50; Hardin: 58; Harrison: 183; Henry: 20; Highland: 132; Hocking: 125; Holmes: 203; Huron: 85; Jackson: 135; Jefferson: 117; Knox: 182; Lawrence: 69; Licking: 182; Logan: 82; Lorain: 56; Mahoning: 65; Medina: 38; Meigs: 171; Mercer: 47; Monroe: 128; Morgan: 143; Muskingum: 200; Noble: 114; Ottawa: 18; Paulding: 49; Perry: 128; Pickaway: 41; Pike: 83; Portage: 104; Preble: 43; Putnam: 38; Richland: 116; Ross: 162; Sandusky: 15; Scioto: 127; Seneca: 95; Stark: 64; Summit: 9; Trumbull: 81; Tuscarawas: 226; Vinton: 102; Warren: 35; Washington: 145; Wayne: 79; Williams: 48; Wyandot: 79. Total: 7,223.
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Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of Seth Grimes
Ohio’s young hunters checked in over 7,000 deer during the latest two-day youth gun season in November. One of those include 12year-old Seth Grimes, who took this nice buck in Jefferson County, OH.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
The Magic of Getting Un-snagged OV Outdoor Times
After popping his jig loose from a rock, I handed the rod back to my guide client. He thanked me, but a few casts later the leadhead jig was again lodged behind a subsurface rock. This time he By Jeff Knapp mimicked the Fishing Editor process I had just demonstrated and again the jig came free. With a relieved look on his face he said, “learning that tip was worth the price of the guide trip.” Late fall is a time of year when most gamefish spend the majority of their time close to the bottom. Trout eat larval stage bugs; walleyes forage on bottom-oriented chubs and shiners; bass sniff out crayfish. It’s not that they don’t do the same during warmer periods. It’s just that by late fall, when the water temperature is anywhere from the mid-40s and lower, they are far less inclined to move up for a bait or lure. Which means
going down to the bottom for them. Which in turn means dealing with frequent snags. And old fishing axiom states, “if you’re not getting hung up, you’re not catching fish,” a particularly true observation when the water’s cold. If you follow a few steps getting a hung-up bait loose, especially a jig-type offering, can often be accomplished by following these simple steps. • The first objective is in determining if the resistance on your line is being causes by a fish or by an obstruction. Bites are light at this time of year, often just a spongy stoppage. I like to apply just a light degree of pressure. If it’s a fish there will be a bit of give, perhaps a light tap as the fish clamps down. If the resistance is of a solid nature, with no signs of life, chances are very good it’s a snag. • The next step is in repelling the urge to heave back on the rod to free the bait. Chances are this will only wedge the lure further. • Rather than applying the heave-ho and loading up the rod, using your wrist
December 2015
apply a series of buggy-whip snaps that really get the rod tip shaking. Holding the rod up high when doing this improves the angle, and ups the chances that the buggy whip will shake the lure free. • If the bait is still lodged load the rod up a bit, and then, using the thumb of your free hand, grab the line between the reel and the first guide, give it a quick pull and release it, like “twanging” a guitar string. This quick release transfers energy down the line to the bait, often popping it free. Be sure not to load the rod too heavily before giving it the thumb snap. The heavy loading needs to occur when you pull the line down with the thumb. This method works with all types of line – nylon monofilament, braided line, and fluorocarbon. It takes just a bit of practice to get good at, something you get plenty of when dragging jigs across rocky bottom. Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Jeff Knapp • In addition to learning the skill of Keeping your lures from snagging can equate getting a jig free one should minimize into some fine fall action, like these two big smallmouth bass displayed by Joe Bright. getting is hung in the first place. Keep in contact with what the bait’s doing. Jigging takes concentration, something Lures (www.wincoscustomlures.com) that’s tough to maintain if you’re con- offers a great jig hook with a light wire serving with your buddy. guard. The guard is designed to main• One can also opt for less snaggy rigTurn To Un-snagged Page 7 gings. For instance, Winco’s Custom
PA Mentored Youths Now Can Hunt Rabbits, Doves
HARRISBURG, PA — Mentored youth hunters now may pursue rabbits and mourning doves, in addition to other selected species. The new opportunities, recently approved by the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners, have undergone a period of mandatory review and given final approval. Both the rabbit season and the dove season are now underway, and will be open for weeks to come. The rabbit season was open through Nov. 28, and then opens again from Dec. 14 through 24 and Dec. 26 through Feb. 29. The mourning dove season also was open through Nov. 28, and reopens from Dec. 26 through Jan. 1. The Mentored Youth Hunting Program was established in 2006 as a way to give youth under the age of 12 an opportunity to experience hunting in a tightly controlled setting under the close supervision of an adult mentor. In the interest of safety, the adult mentor and mentored youth, together, may possess only one sporting arm between them while hunting, and the adult must carry it at all times while moving. The mentored youth then may hold the sporting arm once the pair
takes a stationary position. These safety measures will be applied as well to the hunting of rabbits and doves by mentored youth. Mentored youth hunters must obtain a $2.70 permit prior to heading afield. In order to pursue mourning doves, mentored youth hunters also must obtain a migratory game bird license, which is $3.70 for residents and $6.70 for nonresidents. Requiring the license facilitates the Harvest Information Program (HIP), a cooperative state and federal program designed to improve the information collected regarding the harvest of migratory game birds. Since its inception, the Mentored Youth Hunting Program has proven successful and safe, and the list of species that can be pursued by mentored youth hunters has been expanded over the years. Sporting organizations and other interested groups have continued to encourage the Game Commission to expand mentored youth hunting opportunities and, particularly, to add rabbits and mourning doves to the list approved for mentored youth.
December 2015
PA Bear Harvest Numbers Released
HARRISBURG, PA — Hunters during the final day of Pennsylvania’s statewide bear season harvested 143 bears, raising the statewide season total to 2,693 – an increase compared to the 2,444 bears taken during the four days of the statewide season in 2014. Archery and other early bear season harvest data still is being entered into the Game Commission’s database, and final tally of the total bear harvest will be released at a later date, after all bear seasons for the 2015-16 license year are completed. Bears were harvested in 54 counties during the statewide season in 2015. Chad A. Seeger, of Port Matilda, Pa., harvested a male estimated at 632 pounds late in the afternoon on Nov. 24 in Worth Township, Centre County; and Skyler M. Hubler, of Dushore, Pa., harvested a male estimated at 631 pounds in Hillsgrove Township, Sullivan County at 9 a.m. on Nov. 25. Two 713-pound bears tied for the heaviest among those harvested during the statewide season. A 713-pound male was taken in Granville Township, Mifflin County, on Nov. 23 by Gregory A.
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Wilson, of Lewistown, Pa.; and another male estimated at 713 pounds was taken Nov. 21 in Blair Township, Blair County, by Richard A. Watt, of Gallitzen, Pa. Hunters harvested a total of 3,366 bears during the 2014 season – the seventh-largest harvest in state history. The 2,693 bears taken during the statewide season, compares to 2012 – the thirdlargest harvest on record. The state’s largest bear harvest – 4,350 bears – happened in 2011, when preliminary fourday totals numbered 3,154. The top bear hunting county in the statewide season was Lycoming County, with 237. It held off Clinton County, where hunters took 224 bears. Un-snagged From Page 6
tain a 90 degree angle from the head. It provides some protection from snags, but doesn’t hinder getting a good hookset. Winco also offers a flutter head jig that couples up nicely with tube bodies. It’s a good combination that is much less snaggy that a traditional insert-style open jig hook. And many soft baits can be fished on a Texas-rig – with a sliding sinker and worm-style hook – that’s far less likely to hang-up than an open jig hook.
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• E-mail: lclaypool@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com • Write: “Dear OVTimes” at Ohio Valley Outdoor Times: 210 E. 4th Street, East Liverpool, Ohio 43920 • Please include your full name, address and phone number. Letters may be edited for clarity and space.
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
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Gun Show by Mahoning Valley Gun Collectors - Dec. 12-13, 2015; (9 a.m.-4 p.m.) at Lowellville Rod and Gun Club. Admission $4, vendor tables $25. Buy, sell and trade. Free appraisals, free parking. GPS address 6225 Quarry Road, Lowellville, OH. For info. call Bill at 330-506-9194. Public Trap Shoots - 11-4 p.m each Sunday and 6-9 p.m. each Weds. at Columbiana County Fish and Game Association; 45716 Middle Beaver Rd, Lisbon, OH 44432. NO Trap Shoots on Weds. Dec. 24, Dec. 31 due to holidays. Visit website: columbianacountyfishandgame.com. Indoor .22/Air Rifle Shooting - Range open to public each Tues, thru April 26, 2016 (69 p.m.). Offhand at 50ft., closest to bull and best group. At Columbiana County Fish and Game Association; 45716 Middle Beaver Rd, Lisbon, OH 44432. Visit website: columbianacountyfishandgame.com. Indoor Pistol Shooting - Every Fri. (7-10 p.m.) thru Apr. 29, 2016. Open to public; all calibers except mag. loads. At Columbiana County Fish & Game Association, 45716 Middle Beaver Rd, Lisbon, OH. Visit website: www.columbianacountyfishandgame.com. Old Fashion Style Turkey Shoot - Each Sunday thru March 2016 at Beaver Creek Sportsman Club, 14480 Washingtonville Road, Washingtonville, OH. Field stock guns, .680 choke max., scopes permitted, meat and money rounds, $3 per round, 1 p.m. start time. For info. contact Tom Brunner 330-692-6577 or email:tbrunner1020@gmail.com. West Virginia Trappers Association Fur Auction - Jan. 8-10, 2016 at Gilmer County Recreation Center, Glenville, WV. Several vendors. Auction is 1 p.m. Sunday. Fur Handling Clinic on Jan. 9. For info. call Scott Schimmel at 304-462-7270, email Janet Hodge at hawkmtn@hawkmtn.com or visit website at: www.wvtrappers.com. Ohio State Trappers Association Fur Auction - Jan. 16, 2016 at Crawford County Conservation League, 3477 St. Rt. 98, Bucyrus, OH. Starts at 9 a.m. Call-ins for lot numbers (for all three auctions) will be taken on Jan. 2 only from noon - 9 p.m. Call Steve Hiller at 937206-1934. For info. contact Hiller, OSTA Fur Auction Coordinator via email: SH10@outdrs.net. Visit the OSTA website at: www.ohiostatetrapper.org. Northeast Ohio Sportsman Show - Jan 21-23, 2016 at Buckeye Event Center, 624 Henry St., Dalton, OH 44618. Now three days; Thurs. 2-8 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m. -9 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. -5 p.m. Vendors, demonstrations, seminars, deer scoring (Sat. only). Admission $10, kids 12 & under free. Parking free. Visit www.ohiosportsmanshow.com. For info. 740-397-7788. See ad on Page 20.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Study Shows Continued Growth of Archery
NEW ULM, MN — For those wondering whether “The Hunger Games” movie franchise has truly generated archery growth, the answer is a resounding “Yes!” The Archery Trade Association (ATA) recently released the results of a study to determine adult Americans’ archery participation, and the clear outcome is a steady upward trend in archery participation numbers. According to the study — conducted by the highly regarded Responsive Management research firm — 21.6 million U.S. residents participated in archery in 2014. That’s a 14 percent increase from the ATA’s 2012 study, which found 18.9 million American participated. Those findings coincide with statistics from USA Archery, the sport’s national governing body, which also documented strong growth from 2012 to 2014. That increase in participation also mirrors archery’s nationwide popularity surge in 2012 after the first “Hunger Games” debuted. Soon after, archery burst into pop culture, with bows and arrows playing lead roles in films like “Brave” and “The Avengers,” and on tel-
evision shows such as “Arrow.” “We definitely see a correlation between the ‘The Hunger Games’ and a renewed excitement about archery,” said Jay McAninch, ATA president/CEO. “Several contributing factors helped, such as the availability of more archery programs and instructors, but major events like ‘The Hunger Games’ and the Olympic Games did great things to grow our sport.” Archery was also NBC’s most watched sport during the network’s first week of Olympic Games coverage in 2012, averaging 1.5 million viewers. That bodes well for coverage of the sport at the upcoming Rio 2016 Olympic Games. The 2015 report also found strong interest in both target archery and bowhunting among U.S. archers. For example, 45 percent of respondents shoot target archery but do not bowhunt, while the other 55 percent either bowhunt exclusively, or participate in both target archery and bowhunting. Of those who shot archery in 2014, 39 percent said their participation had increased, while another 35 percent said their participation remained consistent.
December 2015
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Larry Claypool
Studies show that the sport of archery continues to grow in the United States.
Why the increases? Key reasons cited included more interest, more free time, and more bowhunting. However, the No. 1 reason for increased participation was more family involvement. Since the 2012 archery boom, the ATA has worked hard to capitalize on that in-
terest and convert casual participants into archers and archery fans. With help from industry partners, the ATA developed Archery 360, a website and social media presence that takes the idea of archery and makes it real by showcasing the fun and excitement of shooting bows.
Donations Accepted for HHH Program in WV
FRENCH CREEK, WV — Donations of harvested deer and financial donations are being accepted for the West Virginia Hunters Helping the Hungry (HHH) program, sponsored by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR). HHH provides low-fat, low-cholesterol meat to needy families around the state through the Mountaineer Food Bank and the Facing Hunger Food Bank. Hunters can donate legally harvested deer by delivering the deer to the nearest participating meat processor. A list of processors is available at www.wvdnr.gov/Hunting/HHH.shtm. Venison is deboned, ground and frozen in twopound packages. The food banks pick up the venison and distribute it to more than 500 food programs throughout West Virginia. “We need donations of not only deer, but also money,” said Tyler Evans of the DNR Wildlife Resources Section. “Federal law prevents the use of hunting license fees to offset the processing and distribution costs, so DNR requires financial assistance to manage this charitable program.” The West Virginia Council of Churches has established “Share the Harvest Sunday” to raise awareness of the program and funds to support it. Sunday, Nov. 1, has been designated as the day when members of each participating church will be asked to donate $1, $5, or whatever they can, to HHH. Each tax-deductible donation, whether direct or through church, will help feed someone less fortunate. Checks should be made out to: Hunters Helping the Hungry, 163 Wildlife Road, French Creek, WV 26218. Since its inception in 1992, HHH has provided 892,637 pounds of venison for more than 1.2 million family-style meals at a total cost of $1,225,974. Processing costs are $1.45 per pound, with the average deer producing 35.5 pounds of ground venison. For information about HHH, Share the Harvest Sunday, or general questions about the program, please contact Tyler Evans or Judy Channell with DNR at 304-924-6211 or email tyler.s.evans@wv.gov or judy.a.channell@wv.gov.
December 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Book of Trapping Featured
Check out the Winter Issue of Ohio Valley Outdoors Magazine — on newsstands now — for the special section: Book of Trapping. Several trapping articles, photographs and information are featured, including: Two-Hole Dirthole Sets; Running a Trapline from a Jon Boat; Grapple Drags for Securing Traps and Keep Sets Working. Below is a list of regional auctions and events of interest for trappers and furriers. • West Virginia Trappers Association Fur Auction - Jan. 8-10, 2016 at Gilmer County Recreation Center, Glenville, WV. Several vendors. Auction is 1 p.m. Sunday. Fur Handling Clinic on Jan. 9. For info. call Scott Schimmel at 304462-7270, email Janet Hodge at hawkmtn@hawkmtn.com or visit website at: www.wvtrappers.com. • Ohio State Trappers Association Fur Auction - Jan. 16, 2016 at Crawford County Conservation League, 3477 St. Rt. 98, Bucyrus, OH. Starts at 9 a.m. Call-ins for lot numbers (for all three auctions) will be taken on Jan. 2 only
from noon - 9 p.m. Call Steve Hiller at 937-206-1934. For info. contact Hiller, OSTA Fur Auction Coordinator via email: SH10@outdrs.net. Visit the OSTA website at: www.ohiostatetrapper.org. • Ohio State Trappers Association Fur Auction - Feb. 13, 2016 at 50 Boyer Lane (just off Rt. 41) in Jeffersonville, OH. Starts at 9 a.m. Call-ins for lot numbers (for all three auctions) will be taken on Jan. 2 only from noon - 9 p.m. Call Steve Hiller at 937-206-1934. For info. contact Hiller, OSTA Fur Auction Coordinator via email: SH10@outdrs.net. Visit the OSTA website at: www.ohiostatetrapper.org. • West Virginia Trappers Association Spring Rendezvous and Fur Auction March 4-6, 2016 at Gilmer County Recreation Center, Glenville, WV. Several vendors. For info. call Scott Schimmel at 304-462-7270, email Janet Hodge at hawkmtn@hawkmtn.com or visit website at: www.wvtrappers.com. • Ohio State Trappers Association Fur Auction - March 12, 2016 at Wallicks Auction House, 965 N. Wooster Ave.,
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Larry Claypool
Trapper Ralph Scherder with a pair of raccoons he trapped during the 2015 PA trapping season opener in October.
9 Strasburg, OH, 44680. Starts at 9 a.m. Call-ins for lot numbers (for all three auctions) will be taken on Jan. 2 only from noon - 9 p.m. Call Steve Hiller at 937-206-1934. For info. contact Hiller, OSTA Fur Auction Coordinator via email: SH10@outdrs.net. Visit the OSTA website at: www.ohiostatetrapper.org. • PA Trappers Association Rendezvous - June 23-25, 2016 at West End Fairgrounds, 570 Fairgrounds Rd., Gilbert, PA, 18331. Auction is Fri. 6:30 p.m. On Sat. Cable Restraint Cert. Class. Demos, dealers, contests, auction. $5 admission, $10 for three days. Tailgate space $50. Camping available. Contact Bob Counterman 610-759-9203 or Scot Mucha 610-863-9759. Website: www.patrappers.com. —Larry Claypool
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Ohio’s Deer-Gun Season Opens with 22K+ Deer Harvested COLUMBUS, OH — Hunters checked 22,256 white-tailed deer on November 30, the opening day of Ohio’s deer-gun hunting season, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Ohio’s deer-gun opening week ran through December 6. Weekly results were not competed before press time. New this year, an additional two days (Dec. 28 and Dec. 29) have been added to increase the opportunity for people to hunt with firearms. Find more information about deer hunting in the Ohio 2015-2016 Hunting and Trapping Regulations or at wildohio.gov. Past year’s harvest summaries and weekly updated harvest reports can be found at wildohio.gov/deerharvest. Deer Management Goals The ODNR Division of Wildlife remains committed to properly managing Ohio’s deer populations through a combination of regulatory and programmatic changes. The goal of Ohio’s Deer Management Program is to provide a deer population that maximizes recreational opportunities, while minimizing conflicts with landowners and motorists. Until recently, deer populations in nearly all of Ohio’s counties were well above goal. In the last few years, through increased antlerless harvests, most counties are now at or near goal. Therefore, to help stabilize deer populations, bag limits were reduced, and antlerless permit use has been eliminated in most counties for the 2015-2016 season. The ODNR Division of Wildlife is in the process of resetting Ohio’s population goals and is asking hunters that receive the survey to help by completing and returning the survey as soon as they are done hunting or at the end of the season. Landowner surveys have already been distributed, and hunter surveys should arrive in the mail later this week. Hunters for this year’s survey were randomly selected from the list of hunters who purchased a license and deer permit by Nov. 16. Public input is an important part of Ohio’s deer management program, and survey participants are asked to complete and return their surveys. Hunting Popularity Ohio ranks fifth nationally in resident hunters and 11th in the number of jobs associated with hunting-related industries. Hunting has a more than $853 million economic impact in Ohio through the sale of equipment, fuel, food, lodging and more, according to the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s Hunting in America: An Economic Force for Conservation publication. A list of all white-tailed deer checked by hunters during opening day of the 2015
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of Thomas Puz
Ethan Puz (right) harvested this 11-point buck in Columbiana County, OH in 2015. His proud grandfather, Thomas Puz, assisted with the hunt.
deer-gun hunting season is shown below: Adams: 373; Allen: 116; Ashland: 483; Ashtabula: 772; Athens: 420; Auglaize: 99; Belmont: 429; Brown: 248; Butler: 66; Carroll: 571; Champaign: 104; Clark: 52; Clermont: 154; Clinton: 79; Columbiana: 522; Coshocton: 888; Crawford: 177; Cuyahoga: 7; Darke: 74; Defiance: 316; Delaware: 110; Erie: 66; Fairfield: 219; Fayette: 33; Franklin: 31; Fulton: 140; Gallia: 372; Geauga: 167; Greene: 54; Guernsey: 647; Hamilton: 44; Hancock: 135; Hardin: 149; Harrison: 556; Henry: 125; Highland: 300; Hocking: 521; Holmes: 552; Huron: 367; Jackson: 377; Jefferson: 386; Knox: 619; Lake: 44; Lawrence: 224; Licking: 563; Logan: 249; Lorain: 195; Lucas: 27; Madison: 28; Mahoning: 165; Marion: 120; Medina: 152; Meigs: 418; Mercer: 76; Miami: 52; Monroe: 334; Montgomery: 28; Morgan: 387; Morrow: 184; Muskingum: 722; Noble: 352; Ottawa: 20; Paulding: 157; Perry: 399; Pickaway: 107; Pike: 209; Portage: 157; Preble: 80; Putnam: 90; Richland: 462; Ross: 320; Sandusky: 76; Scioto: 207; Seneca: 273; Shelby: 97; Stark: 248; Summit: 24; Trumbull: 468; Tuscarawas: 658; Union: 97; Van Wert: 63; Vinton: 401; Warren: 61; Washington: 490; Wayne: 211; Williams: 327; Wood: 87; Wyandot: 227. Total: 22,256.
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
samples in Holmes County and includes: Franklin and Clinton townships in Wayne County, and Ripley, Prairie, Salt Creek, Monroe, Hardy, Berlin, Killbuck and Mechanic townships, as well as the northeast portion of Richland Township (defined by the boundary of Twp. Road 36 to State Route 520 to Twp. Road 31 to U.S. Route 62) in Holmes County. This DSA designation will remain in effect for a minimum of three years. The area will be mapped and posted on the division’s website at wildohio.gov. The following regulations apply within the DSA: Requires hunters to bring deer carcasses harvested within the DSA boundaries to an ODNR Division of Wildlife inspection station for sampling during the deer-gun and deer muzzleloader seasons; Prohibits the placement of or use of salt, mineral supplement, grain, fruit, vegetables or other feed to attract or feed deer within the DSA boundaries; Prohibits hunting of deer by the aid of salt, mineral supplement, grain, fruit, vegetables or other feed within the DSA boundaries; and Prohibits the removal of a deer carcass
should take no more than 10 minutes, however, delays are likely at peak times of the day. Hunters are strongly encouraged to complete the game check process before proceeding to the inspection, but division staff will be able to assist with checking deer. Hunters that harvest a deer and wish to have it mounted will still need to bring their deer to a carcass inspection station. Samples will not be taken at the time, but staff will collect additional information so samples can be collected later. If hunters have questions about the carcass inspection stations or need directions to the locations, they may call 800WILDLIFE or the Wildlife District Three office at 330-644-2293. The ODNR Division of Wildlife is responsible for protecting and managing Ohio’s fish and wildlife resources for the benefit of all Ohioans. We greatly appreciate hunters’ cooperation in helping us monitor Ohio’s deer herd. For more information about CWD, visit wildohio.gov. ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
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COLUMBUS, OH — Portions of Holmes and Wayne counties have been declared a Chronic Wasting Disease Surveillance Area (DSA) as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to monitor Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). This designation requires that additional rules must be followed by deer hunters in this area. Since October 2014, 19 captive whitetailed deer have tested positive for CWD at a shooting preserve and a breeding facility in Holmes County. Twenty-four escaped white-tailed deer have been found outside of those facilities and have been tested. Since CWD was first detected, ODNR Division of Wildlife staff have also collected hundreds of samples of wild deer with the cooperation of hunters and local landowners. While none of these deer have tested positive for CWD, it cannot be assumed the disease is confined to a fenced facility, and the ODNR Division of Wildlife is taking additional steps to protect Ohio’s deer herd. The DSA includes the areas within a 6-mile radius from the CWD positive
killed by a motor vehicle within the DSA boundaries unless the carcass complies with deer carcass regulations. Additional information on carcass regulations can be found at wildohio.gov. Normal agricultural activities including feeding of domestic animals as well as hunting deer over food plots, naturally occurring or cultivated plants and agriculture crops are not prohibited. Hunters harvesting deer within the DSA are required to deliver their deer to a carcass inspection station. Two locations have been designated as Carcass Inspection Stations for the deer-gun seasons and the deer muzzleloader season. Both locations will be open and staffed from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the deergun and deer muzzleloader seasons. The dates for these seasons are: Nov. 30 to Dec. 6, Dec. 28-29 and Jan. 9-12. Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) garage, 1800 South Washington Street, Millersburg, OH 44654. Hunters will be asked to provide their confirmation number from the game check process as well as the location where the deer was killed (the address of the farm or nearest road intersection are acceptable). Tissue samples will be taken and tested for CWD. The process
December 2015
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December 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
PA Hunters Reminded to Report Deer and Turkey Harvests
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 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, www.pgc.state.pa.us 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
2016 WV Wildlife Calendars are Available
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — “The 2016 West Virginia Wildlife Calendar 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. A list of vendors selling the calendars is available online at www.wvdnr.gov/Wildlife/WildlifeCalen dar.shtm. If buying the calendar through the mail, make checks payable to WVDNR in the amount of $16.50 for each calendar, which includes shipping and handling (West Virginia residents add $.60 tax for each calendar. VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express are accepted.
the field. This also is true for harvests reported by mail. 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
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should know that, by reporting harvests, they’re not only fulfilling their legal obligation, they’re also providing valuable 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.”
Camp Perry Closed to Ice Fishing
PORT CLINTON, OH – Due to facility damage incurred as a result of excessive use during the 2014-15 ice fishing season, Camp Perry officials have determined it necessary to prohibit public use of the area for ice fishing from this date forward. Should conditions become feasible for ice fishing, parking access will be granted to guests staying overnight in a Camp Perry Lodging facility ONLY. Parking in designated areas will be authorized by display of facility-issued parking permits only. All others will be towed at the owner’s expense. For additional information about Camp Perry Lodging contact Debbie Paul at: 614-336-6215 or email campperrypaul@gmail.com. The website is: http://cplcc.com/.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Forest Service Releases i-Tree Tool for Public Use
WASHINGTON, DC — The U.S. Forest Service recently launched the updated version of the increasingly popular, free software i-Tree. This version includes a major new function that simulates future tree population totals, canopy cover, tree diversity and tree values by species based on user information. i-Tree and its growing suite of tools make it possible for anyone to analyze individual trees, parcels, neighborhoods, cities or an entire state. “The i-Tree enhancements will provide the public with helpful scientific information about the trees across the U.S.,” said U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell. “With i-Tree you won’t have to imagine how trees enhance your communities because it will demonstrate their value to all of us.” The Forest Service worked with private industry, professional associations, non-profit groups, and universities to develop i-Tree, a public-domain suite of forest assessment tools.
Since the initial release in 2006, thousands of communities, nonprofit organizations, managers, consultants, volunteers and students in more than 100 countries have used i-Tree to produce customized reports. The enhancements provided in i-Tree, Version 6.0, include: i-Tree Landscape: Users can learn about the benefits and values of trees (carbon storage, air pollution removal, hydrologic effects) in their area, see how increasing tree cover will increase the benefits provided, and prioritize areas in which to focus tree planting efforts. The data is preloaded and analyzed from various sources, so the users just need to select an area to begin understanding and valuing their forest resource. i-Tree Eco interface: i-Tree Eco is modernized with a new application interface, updated science and values, an upgraded web-based mobile data collection tool and reporting features, and full
December 2015
functionality for the United Kingdom. These upgrades make it easier for users to assess and understand their local forest resource. i-Tree Forecast: This new function in i-Tree Eco simulates future tree population totals, canopy cover, tree diversity and diameter at breast height distribution. The tool also looks at carbon and air pollution removal services and values by species based on user-input tree data and planting rates, and default or user-defined mortality rates. “The new ability to prioritize tree planting locations throughout the U.S. is a major step forward for improving human health in our nation,” said David J. Nowak, i-Tree team leader for the Forest Service. “i-Tree has tools to help users select and see the benefits of individual trees. The new Landscape program now lets people compare the benefits of trees, then determine which neighborhoods are the highest priority areas to plant to boost environmental quality and human health.” i-Tree already includes i-Tree Streets, which focuses on the benefits provided by a municipality’s street trees and puts a dollar value on the street trees’ annual
environmental and aesthetic benefits. The program’s i-Tree Design is a simple online tool that provides a way to assess individual or multiple trees at the parcel level. The tool links to Google Maps and allows a homeowner to see how tree selection, size and placement on their property affect energy use and other benefits. The mission of the U.S. Forest Service, an agency of the Department of Agriculture, is to sustain the health, diversity and productivity of the nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners and maintains the largest forestry research organization in the world. Public lands the U.S. Forest Service manages contribute more than $13 billion to the economy each year through visitor spending alone. Those same lands provide 20 percent of the nation’s clean water supply, a value estimated at $7.2 billion per year. The agency also has either a direct or indirect role in stewardship of about 80 percent of the 850 million forested acres within the U.S., of which 100 million acres are urban forests where most Americans live.
HARRISBURG, PA — It’s just before dark and you see an elusive mammal. If you are lucky, you snap a good picture before it takes off. You wonder if others have seen it too. Is it common to find this animal in your county? Now you can find out. The Pennsylvania Game Commission and its partners at the Pennsylvania Biological Survey have created a website for just that. When visiting www.pamammalatlas.com you can browse maps, statistics, photographs, and descriptions of each wild mammal species in Pennsylvania. You also can search through photographs submitted by other outdoor enthusiasts. Consider registering as a volunteer and sharing your own photographs while you are at it. In doing so, you will greatly help biologists working on the Pennsylvania Mammal Atlas. What is the Pennsylvania Mammal Atlas? The Pennsylvania Mammal Atlas is a project designed to map the current locations of the 64 wild mammal species found in Pennsylvania. Atlas projects aren’t a new idea, but this is the first such project for mammals in Pennsylvania. “The result of this project will be an approximately 10-year snapshot of Pennsyl-
vania wild mammal distributions” said Lindsey Heffernan, a wildlife biologist for the Pennsylvania Game Commission. “While professional biologists will be traveling around the state conducting in-depth surveys, we simply can’t cover enough ground. Citizen scientists will be crucial in helping us to search the entire Commonwealth.” Why is the Pennsylvania Mammal Atlas Important? In completing the Pennsylvania Mammal Atlas project, citizens and researchers will gather much-needed information on rare and elusive mammal species. Species distribution maps will be updated, and researchers will have a greater foundation for future projects and a better understanding of where to focus conservation efforts. “This project is also important longterm, as the world we live in is constantly changing,” Heffernan said. “Climate change, human activities, and population growth are among the list of things that could, and likely will, have some effect on wild animals. “By creating a repeatable atlas, biologists will have the data they need to analyze those changes in mammal distributions past, present, and future,” Heffernan said.
PA Mammal Atlas Wants Your Photos
December 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Ohio Hunters Harvest 1,500+ Wild Turkeys
COLUMBUS, OH — Hunters harvested 1,536 wild turkeys during Ohio’s 2015 fall wild turkey season, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Ohio’s 2015 fall wild turkey hunting season was open in 56 counties Oct. 10-Nov. 29. Wild turkeys were extirpated in Ohio by 1904 and were reintroduced in the 1950s by the ODNR Division of Wildlife. Ohio’s first modern day wild turkey season opened in the spring of 1966 in 9 counties, and hunters checked 12 birds. The wild turkey harvest topped 1,000 for the first time in 1984. Spring turkey hunting opened statewide in 2000. Fall turkey season first opened in 19 counties in 1996. For summaries of past turkey seasons, visit wildohio.gov/turkeyharvest. A list of all wild turkeys checked dur-
ing the 2015 fall hunting season is shown below: Adams: 44; Ashland: 27; Ashtabula: 73; Athens: 31; Belmont: 33; Brown: 26; Butler: 13; Carroll: 21; Clermont: 43; Columbiana: 43; Coshocton: 43; Cuyahoga: 2; Darke 1; Defiance: 18; Delaware: 9; Fairfield: 14; Franklin: 1; Gallia: 50; Geauga: 45; Greene 1; Guernsey: 35; Hamilton: 10; Harrison: 32; Highland: 40; Hocking: 52; Holmes: 27; Huron: 6; Jackson: 43; Jefferson: 30; Knox: 34; Lake: 11; Lawrence: 31; Licking: 36; Lorain: 29; Mahoning: 23; Medina: 22; Meigs: 33; Monroe: 21; Morgan: 13; Morrow: 17; Muskingum: 27; Noble: 35; Perry: 29; Pike: 35; Portage: 38; Richland: 21; Ross: 24; Scioto: 27; Seneca: 6; Stark: 27; Summit: 12; Trumbull: 50; Tuscarawas: 23; Vinton: 34; Warren: 9; Washington: 23; Wayne: 13; Williams: 20. Total: 1,536.
Give the Gift of the Outdoors this Season
COLUMBUS, OH — While shopping for friends and family this holiday season, why not consider giving the gift of the great outdoors? The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is ready to help with stocking stuffers for the entire family. Ohio State Parks Gift Cards An Ohio State Parks gift card makes a great present for anyone who enjoys the beauty of the great outdoors right here in the Buckeye State. Gift cards may be redeemed for camping, getaway rentals, cottage rentals or in most of Ohio’s state park lodges. They may also be used for golfing at Ohio State Parks’ six public courses or for boat rentals at many state park marinas. Available in any denomination and with no expiration date, gift cards may be purchased online at ohiostateparks.org, at any state park office or by calling 866-644-6727. Wild Ohio Magazine Wild Ohio Magazine features articles and photos about fishing, hunting, conservation, species profiles, habitat improvement and more. Wild Ohio Magazine is produced by the ODNR Division of Wildlife and delivered to your mailbox. The magazine is available at wildohio.gov and at license vendors. The cost is $10 for all others. Order now to receive the January/February 2016 edition. Wildlife Gift Certificates Ohio offers countless hunting and fish-
ing opportunities for every level of outdoorsmen and women. Gift certificates are available at wildohio.gov and may be used toward fishing and hunting licenses, turkey or deer hunting permits and Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamps. Gift certificates can be purchased for any amount and are valid for one year from the date of purchase. Gift certificates can only be purchased and redeemed online. Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamps The Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp is available for purchase online, by mail or at any location that sells hunting and fishing licenses. The 2015 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp depicts an eastern bluebird. People who purchase a stamp will also receive a commemorative card suitable for framing. Buyers may personalize and print a certificate of appreciation to accompany the gift stamp at wildohiostamp.gov. Geology Store Looking for a unique gift for the holidays? Check out OhioGeologyStore.com where people can save 20 percent on a large selection of our most popular publications through Dec. 31. Shop online from the convenience of your home and avoid the Black Friday madness. The store features great books, maps and posters for rock hounds, explorers, hikers and young geologists. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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John Hinchliffe Jobe Tullis Coyote Columbiana County, OH
Jason Tatgenhorst Jr., age 6 1st squirrel Columbiana County, OH
John Bellanca 15-pt., bow Columbiana County, OH
December 2015
David Donaldson Jr. 10-pt., compound bow Mahoning County, OH
John Hinchliffe Coyotes Columbiana County, OH
Send Us Your Photos
Emily Snoderly, age 10 squirrels Brooke County, WV
Anna Snoderly, age 12 fall turkey Brooke County, WV
Bill Hall Sr. 11pt., crossbow Franklin County, 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
December 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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Jerry Hileman & father Big Jerry 10-pt. Cambria County, PA
Jason Tatgenhorst Jr., age 6 1st deer, 11-pt. Columbiana County, OH
Luke Sprouse 13-pt., compound bow Columbiana County, OH
Lillian May, age 11 1st deer, shotgun Mahoning County, OH
John Lutsch (left) 8-pt., buck Columbiana County, OH
Randy G. Sprouce bow Columbiana County, OH
Danny Swiger 15-pt. Jefferson County, OH
Hayden Russell, age 8 spike buck Jefferson County, OH
Hunter Seminsky double beard 9-1/2" & 8", 1-3/8" & 1-1/8 spurs, WV
Seth Grimes, age 12 Jefferson County, OH
Chloe Wagler 1st buck, crossbow Stark County, OH
Brady Clark, age 6 1st deer, 2-pt. Columbiana County, OH
December 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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