FAKE GUN STORE CAUSES STIR - P.9
Choosing Scout Cameras Story inside page 10
Hearing Aid Dogs II OV Outdoor Times
It’s been a pleasure to find out how other hunters have appreciated our article about my two hearing aid dogs, Rosie and Bolt (Spring 2014 OVO). At some By Curt Grimm of the sportsman The Marathon Hunter banquets and sporting shows we attended, it was called to my attention that the use of hearing aid dogs is unique, and a valuable experience. Dogs can point you in the right direction if you watch them close, note the excitement in their face and see where their attention is focused. The location of the roosting tom turkey or the direction of shots can be evaluated more precisely. For me, the lack of hearing in one ear hinders the ability to tell the direction of sound. Hearing aid dogs, no matter what size or breed, can provide a valuable tool to assure a more successful and safe hunt. The evening before I start my turkey hunt I try to locate the tom turkey with a shock call. It varies from a crow call to a dog whistle. The response is easy to hear, but the loca-
EE!
Outdoor Times
tion remains a mystery. Where do I start to hunt in the morning? Rosie, my Jack Russell, prefers to sit on my shoulder and Bolt, the York Terrier, prefers to sit in the palm of my hand. They help to confirm the direction of the sound and give me my starting point. This technique was first used when I started hunting at age 12, but I never appreciated it or used it to this extent until I became more aware of its value. When I was young and got separated from my friends or hunting parties, I use the dogs’ awareness to lead me to the call of fellow hunters and the direction of their shots. When I was lost the sound of traffic or running water that would help me move in the right direction. It would not be possible without the help of my dogs, back then, Blackie and Duke. The love of dogs and the respect of their friendship has been a valuable asset in my life. When I look back to over 60 years of enjoying the great outdoors, the most valuable experiences have been with the company of my dogs. They are so unselfish to give you the love and friendship that’s very unique and genuine. I will always cherish the memories and time I spent with them and the experiences with my family and friends. My best memory of my dad was when Prince, my brother Gary’s dog, flushed a ring necked pheasant on the Turn To Dogs II Page 4
Ohio Valley
FR
April 2015
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Gary Grimm
The author with his Jack Russell terrier, Rosie, as they scout for turkey. The author’s two dogs help him locate the direction of turkey before each hunt. “They help to confirm the direction of the sound and give me my starting point.”
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
6
13 Fish Winterkill May
Taking Advantage of the Open Season
15 Ohio Ice Fisherman
Col (Ret.) Grey D. Berrier
8 Social Media Photo 9
Hit Ohio’s Ponds
WVDNR
Leads to Citations in WV
19
Named to Team USA
Hunter-Trapper Education Classes in PA
Bill Waugaman
10
It’s My Opinion
PAGC
Choosing & Using Scouting Cameras
12
Ralph Scherder
Review: St. Croix Legend X Fly Rod Jeff Knapp
14 Youth Outdoors - Cade Staats OUTDOOR CALENDAR
Gun Show by Mahoning Valley Gun Collector’s - April 18, 19 (9 a.m.-4 p.m.) at Lowellville Rod & Gun Club. Admission $4, vendor tables $25. Buy, sell, trade. GPS address, 6225 Quarry Road, Lowellville, OH. For info. call Bill at 330-506-9194. Pioneer Village (at Beaver Creek State Park) Comes Alive Water Adventures - May 2, Intro to Kayaking and Doug Fodrey Memorial Fishing Experience. Website: friendsofbeavercreekstatepark.org or email: fobcsp@gmail.com. Gun Show - May 9-10 (9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sat. & 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sun.) at Beaver Creek Sportsman Club, 11480 Washingtonville Rd., Washingtonville, OH. Admission $5, Vendors $15 table per day. Contact Phil Brown at 330-482-5125 or 330-502-8429. Outdoor Archery Shoot - May 10, June 14, (second Sunday of each month thru Sept) 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.) at Trumbull County Rod and Gun Club. The club is located at 6565 Phillips Rice Rd., Cortland, OH 44410. Call John Chegar at 330-727-7634. 30 Target 3-D course. Adults are $10.00 and Cubs 12 and under are $5. See website: http://www.tcrg.us/activities/archery/eb.
Ohio Valley
The definition of POACH: 1). To encroach upon especially for the purpose of taking something. 2). To trespass for the purpose of stealing game; also: to take game or fish illegally. Those sentences inBy Larry Claypool clude pretty strong Editor words — with negative connotations: encroach, taking, trespass, stealing and illegally. So to be associated with any of those words, is not good. Poaching is the same, when speaking of animals or wildlife. Poaching of wildlife is a world-wide problem. A recent update from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Field Reports proves we have a lot of issues with poaching in our region. What will it take to curb this illegal activity? And in some cases, extreme stupidity. I guess the person or persons taking part in these illegal acts either don’t care about our wildlife or conservation, paying hefty fines or spending time in jail. In many cases poachers lose their hunting or fishing privileges, not just in this state, but several others and they forfeit any weapons or equipment used to commit crimes. Back to the ODNR Field Reports that spurred this column. The reports are filled with hunters (if we want to call them that) who shot deer from a vehicle, from across a roadway, did not tag a deer, hunted without permission, hunted out of season, was caught spotlighting, trespassing and more. In one case, Lawrence County, a man killed a buck four days before a DNR officer came to his door and then changed the harvest date on the tag and told the officer he’d killed the deer the previous day. Another hunter, this one in Belmont County, was caught poaching, trespassing and hunting without permission and lost a nice
April 2015
160-inch, 8-point buck. Did officials ask him if there were other poached deer in his possession? You bet! That led to a search warrant of his home and officials carted off much of his man-cave decorations. Those included: nine sets of deer antlers, a shoulder-mounted buck deer, his muzzleloader and 18 other illegally possessed deer, reptile, furbearer, and bird parts. The dummy was ordered to pay $500 in fines and court costs, received one year of probation, and all evidence seized was forfeited to the state. When he’s allowed to hunt again he’ll need a new muzzleloader and a bunch of new wildlife decorations for his home. I guess for some people the risk is worth the reward, but I’m not seeing it. Poaching is still wrong, it’s illegal and it cheats us all — hunters or not. Poaching in other parts of the world have become alarming, and deadly. The stakes — mostly for profit — get really high for poachers of elephants, rhinos and even gorillas. There’s actually a call — an expensive one — for gorilla ‘bushmeat’. I’ve never heard of that one. There should not be a demand for that. It’s just wrong. The International Anti-Poaching Foundation — which covers the above big game animals that many feel could be eradicated by poachers — have offices in Australia, South Africa, Zimbabwe and USA (Texas). Their mission statement should be followed by all: “The requirement for inspiring urgent political action towards the safekeeping of the planet cannot be overstated. This responsibility should transcend all levels of industry, business and society as we strive for a generation of people that give, not take.” Yes, as hunters we should give, not take more than we NEED! Poachers take what they want, not what they need. Greed can be a destructive thing. If you see someone in Ohio poaching or violating the law, call the Turn in a Poacher (TIP) toll-free line at 1-800-POACHER.
To Advertise CALL 330-385-2243 Publisher/Editor, Larry Claypool lclaypool@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
Outdoor Times April 2015
Poaching: It’s Just Wrong OV Outdoor Times
INSIDE THIS MONTH
2
Graphics Designer, Linda McKenzie lmckenzie@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
VOL. 7, NO. 04
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
©
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
April 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Cabins
hunting • fishing • vacation
16x24' A-Frame Cabin
16x24' Barnstyle Cabin w/barnsiding ph 330.359.5708 free 800.359.7522 toll fr ee 800.359.7 522 1.5 1 5 miles West West of Winesburg Winesb b rg on US 62 • Monday-Friday Monda Fridaa 7-5, 7 5 Saturday Sat rda 9-2 92
www.alpinestructures.net
3
4 Dogs II From Page 1
(Milkman’s Farm), and the beauty of the farm and the bird is a lasting memory. Rosie and Bolt now provide many hours of pleasure and excitement for me. All dogs, past and present, hold a special place in my heart. They ranged from pointers and beagles to house dogs. No matter what the breed they all were all natural hunters. When I was lost from my group of Boy Scouts when out on a long hike, it was Blackie, a mixed breed that came to my rescue and led me to safely and helped me reunite with the group. Living without a dog in my life, would be like driving down a highway alone without being able to share the beauty and excitement of the our environment. Besides my dogs being a friend and companion they are an extension of my inability to tell direction. It takes time and patience to train a dog, but they are so bright and eager to please. They look to us for protection and praise, but in return they are content to get a pat on the head and a favorite treat. If someone ask me why I have a dog, the answer is not in a verbal statement, but in a question. If I didn’t have a dog, what would I have missed? I still might be wondering out in the woods looking for my Boy Scout Pack, or moving in the op-
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Gary Grimm
The author with his two dogs, Rosie (foreground) and Bolt. The dogs use keen hearing skills to help hunters afield.
posite direction of the tom turkey I am trying to harvest. For years I wondered what made dogs so special and the answer was right in front of me. Just like my style of hunting, it comes from a different perspec-
tive. Likewise, when you look at the word dog, spelled backwards, it spells God. I consider man’s best friend to be a gift from God and should be treated with the utmost respect. The rewards are great and the memories are lasting.
April 2015
Multi-Deer Poaching Case Nets Guilty Pleas
HARRISBURG, PA — Six people from Spring Grove have been sentenced to more than $23,000 in fines and costs after pleading guilty to poaching 18 white-tailed deer ranging from yearlings to adult does and bucks, including a 9point. Amy Daugherty, 44, Jennifer Rosenberry, 41, and a minor waived their rights to hearings and pleaded guilty to five counts of unlawful taking of big game, four counts of shooting on or across highways, three counts of unlawful use of lights while hunting, three counts of unlawfully spotlighting and a host of other counts. The three were assessed to pay $7,650 in fines, plus court costs. Cain Rosenberry, 30, Joshua Runkle, 21, and another minor pleaded guilty to 10 counts of unlawful taking of big game, eight counts of trespassing on private property, eight counts of unlawful use of lights while hunting and many more. Also taken was a dry erase board with a tally of each individual’s harvest totals for the year.
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
6
Taking Advantage of the Open Season If you have not done so already, now is an excellent time to walk the property where you currently deer hunt and any land where you are considering hunting this coming fall. During this limited annual window of opportunity with the snows gone and the landscape brown and barren, travel patterns and signs of deer activity are much more apparent. Runs and scrapes that might have been previously unnoticed stand out. The well-worn trails of does and their offspring are easily found, and frequently, the parallel fainter paths that bucks follow through thicker cover become detectable. Additionally, natural funnels and chokepoints become visible as trails merge and the ground becomes beaten with prints. These key locations may provide insight for productive future stand locations. While afield, it’s not too late to possibly find some shed antlers. Which is a very positive sign that a mature whitetail made it through yet another hunting season and should remain in the vicinity come fall.
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — Beginning this month, for the first time, hunters and trappers in West Virginia will be able to check in their game from their phones or computers. The new system takes effect just in time for the 2015 spring gobbler season, which runs from April 27 through May 23. It also applies to youth hunters during the one-day season April 25. How electronic game check works To check game in by phone, hunters and trappers will have to know their unique DNR ID number, which is valid for their lifetime. That number will be printed on the top of the license for those who buy a license each year. Lifetime license holders will need to log in to the system at wvhunt.com to obtain their DNR ID number, which has already been assigned to them. Landowners and those who don’t need a license (such as residents under the age of 15, resident hunters who turned 65 before Jan. 1, 2012, and former prisoners of war) can log on to the system and obtain their number. They also can visit a license agent or DNR district office to obtain their number. Hunters and trappers also can check
their game in by computer. Those logging in for the first time can set up an account, get their DNR ID number if they don’t have it already, and then check in their game. When a hunter or trapper has completed the electronic game check process, they will be assigned a 13-digit number that confirms that the game has been checked in properly. That game check confirmation number must be written down on a field tag or a sheet of paper along with the other information required in the regulations. Benefits of electronic check Electronic game checking will benefit hunters and trappers in several ways. Hunters can hunt later in the day without worrying about driving around to find an open check station. This will also save hunters time, gas and wear-and-tear on their vehicles. Although the main reason for the change in the system is to help hunters, electronic game check also will benefit DNR personnel with their wildlife management duties. To learn more or to obtain a DNR ID number, visit wvhunt.com or call a DNR office.
OV Outdoor Times
Things are about to change in a big way! If you are a turkey hunter, your alarm is going to start going off a whole lot earlier and your mornings are (Ret.)Grey D. Berrier II going to be a whole By Col. FIN Pro Staff lot busier with the opening of spring turkey season in Ohio (April 20), West Virginia (April 27), and Pennsylvania (May 2). Additionally, as a spring turkey hunter, you will also have the privilege of observing first-hand the slow, yet steady, transformation of the annual green-up in the woods. Typically, at the beginning of the season, the woods seem wide open with good visibility. However, that constantly changes as plants grow, leaves emerge on the trees, and the fields and forest get greener by the day. With minimal days remaining before spring turkey starts, now is an excellent time to take full advantage of this open season on your calendar and in the existing vegetation to get things done outdoors.
Turn To Open Season Page 7
New Game Check System Ready in WV
April 2015
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Grey D. Berrier II
This small beaver dam, which serves as a natural choke point for deer and coyote travels, is clearly visible before green-up.
April 2015
Open Season From Page 6
While out there, it’s always a great idea to pick up any litter you come across to help clean-up our public lands and improve relations with private landowners where you have the privilege to hunt. Remember, when it comes to litter, there is no season or bag limit, so harvest as much as you want and we’ll all be better off from your efforts. Obviously, not wanting to turn a blind eye to other things going on in the woods, your ventures into the woods in mid-April can be productive for turkey scouting, locating fresh groundhog dens, finding some tasty morel mushrooms, and possibly incorporating a little coyote hunting to help thin out the predator population before does start fawning in another month. If you are a property owner or have permission from the landowner, now is an excellent time to initiate some longterm land management practices to improve habitat and food sources for wildlife, while enhancing your hunting opportunities. It’s not too early to begin food plot preparations, including location identification, brush clearing, soil tillage, and possibly seeding, depending upon the crop selected. Before the trees leaf out is also a prime period to drop se-
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
lect trees to create bedding sites for deer, brush piles for bunnies, and clear trials for wildlife and your own movement through the woods. While you may choose to permit multiflora rose and poison ivy to flourish in designated sanctuary areas, before green-up is the time to eradicate those persistent species from sites where their existence isn’t desired. Also consider dropping trees or moving toppings now to block existing trails, forcing deer to travel paths you prefer for shot selection. When not out turkey hunting over the next few weeks, other outdoor activities you may want to pursue include building new permanent stands to permit deer to grow accustomed to their presence over the summer and erecting nesting boxes to provide homes for wood ducks, squirrels, and other wildlife. If you are inclined to scout for future waterfowl hunting locations, take the opportunity to canoe or kayak smaller waterways while they are swollen with spring runoff, well before they get too low to paddle easily, later in the season. It’s easy to become fixated on spring turkey season and wish the days passed faster, prior to its arrival. By keeping busy with other outdoor activities, you can make productive use of your time.
How to Contact US
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
• 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.
ADVERTISING
• E-mail: advertising@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com • Phone: 330-385-2243 • Fax: 330-385-7114 • Write: advertising at Ohio Valley Outdoor Times: 210 E. 4th Street, East Liverpool, Ohio 43920
7
Take advantage of the open season that each spring provides and you’ll be re-
warded with improved results the remainder of your hunting year!
COLUMBUS, OH — The Ohio Legislature passed legislation in late March intended to help curb harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie by limiting the application of fertilizer and manure on frozen or saturated ground. Commenting on the legislation, Mike Shriberg, Ph.D., regional executive director of the National Wildlife Federation’s Great Lakes Regional Center, said: “The Ohio House took an initial step today to address the problem of harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie. The legislation partially bans a practice that provides nutrients which fuel the growth of algae: applying fertilizer and manure to frozen and saturated soil. However, much work remains to be done to protect Ohio’s waterways, especially Lake Erie. “The science is clear: phosphorus needs to be cut by at least 40 percent— and that level of reduction will not be achieved by this bill alone. If public officials in Ohio want to put an end to harmful algal blooms like the one last
summer that left more than 400,000 people in Toledo without access to safe drinking water, then they must act swiftly to make this bill part of a larger suite of protections to curb farm runoff and other sources of phosphorus. “The millions of people who depend on Lake Erie and Ohio waters for their drinking water, jobs, and way of life deserve to know that Ohio’s elected officials are in this for the long haul and that this bill is a first step, not the last word, in protecting Lake Erie. The National Wildlife Federation remains committed to working with Ohio’s public officials, including Governor Kasich, and using this bill as a catalyst to advance more powerful solutions to put an end to harmful algal blooms once and for all.” For more National Wildlife Federation news visit www.nwf.org/news The National Wildlife Federation is America’s largest conservation organization inspiring Americans to protect wildlife for our children’s future.
Ohio Algal Bloom Legislation First Step to Protecting Lake Erie
8 Social Media Photo Leads to Citations in WV
BECKLEY, WV — Following up complaints in person and by email that someone had been taking more than the daily creel limit of trout on Big Clear Creek along Anjean Road in Greenbrier County, Natural Resources Police Officers from the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources District 4 Office in Beckley got some help from social media. “I found that one of the suspect’s girlfriend had posted on Facebook a picture of what she was calling ‘today’s catch,’ a photo of a truck bed with approximately 48 trout on the tailgate,” said NRPO J.B. Hudson, who investigated the case. “I also obtained messages from Twitter about the catch and the time it occurred. I then began building my case.” Officer Hudson was able to obtain the identities of the suspects, both juveniles, and questioned them and their parents. He determined that the trout had all been caught the same day, Feb. 6, 2015, and that the fish had been dispersed throughout the community. The two suspects
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of WVDNR
This is the photo that appeared on Facebook that helped a WVDNR Police Officer solve a case of trout poaching in Greenbrier County, WV.
were each issued citations for exceeding the creel limit of trout, exceeding the possession limit of trout, and illegal possession of trout. “This case was brought to conclusion in large part thanks to the public reporting the incident by way of email and social media,” said Col. Jerry Jenkins,
chief of the WVDNR Law Enforcement Section. Anyone who witnesses a violation of the state’s wildlife laws is asked to report it by telephone, email or online at http://wvdnr.gov/LEnforce/Poachers.sht m. You do not need to give your identity to report a suspected crime.
April 2015
First Ohio boating summit debuts in May
COLUMBUS, OH – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) will hold the first Ohio Boating Summit on May 4, at the Nationwide and Ohio Farm Bureau 4-H Center at 2201 Fred Taylor Drive in Columbus. People interested in paddling, fishing or boating in Ohio are encouraged to attend this summit offered by the ODNR Division of Watercraft. The summit will provide an opportunity for a number of experts to share their experiences and create a dialogue between ODNR boating constituents, boating partners and the public. The one-day conference will be held from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Registration is $25, $10 with a student ID, and $10 for groups of six or more. The opportunity to earn continuing education units (CEU) credits with this event is available. Lunch may be purchased for $11.50 for people who preregister for the summit. Registration is available the day of the summit beginning at 8 a.m. when the doors open, with the event starting at 9 a.m. For more information on the Ohio Boating Summit or registration, go to watercraft.ohiodnr.gov.
April 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Fake Gun Store by Anti Group Causes Stir OV Outdoor Times
In mid-March, a ‘gun store’ was opened up in the Manhattan’s Lower East Side for just two days. It didn’t shut down because of the ridiculous firearms laws in the state of By Bill Waugaman New York or New York City; there were no protests; the store wasn’t raided; in fact, it was reported that Mayor Bill de Blasio’s office cleared this ‘gun store’ to open. The ‘gun store’ closed after two days
because the organizations behind the ruse (States United Against Gun Violence and New Yorkers Against Gun Violence) accomplished its goal of scaring people about firearm ownership and video taped it to further promote their agenda. The store was set up and stocked with a variety of replica firearms, and hidden cameras. When the unsuspecting shoppers went into the store, they were told about a violent act that was perpetrated by a particular firearm. References were made to Adam Lanza, a Walmart shooting and even how a pump shotgun was used at a McDonald’s in San Diego to kill 11 people, just to name a few.
I watched the 3+ minute video produced by SUAGV from the hidden camera footage and subsequent interviews. Is it effective in promoting an anti-gun agenda… absolutely. Did it make me (a pro-gun rights supporter) angry… absolutely. What is distressing are the comments made by some of the shoppers in the video after they left the store. I wonder if the same scenario was created with a used car lot with a Chevy Camaro. The salesman could then tell the story of how Olivia Culbreath of Fontana, CA was driving one when 6 people were killed in an accident. Does SUAGV stand for banning all red or sporty cars from the highways? Maybe a drug store could be set up and whenever a person wanted to purchase a tourniquet, they would be told how John Wayne Gacy used one to strangle 32 teenage boys and young men in the Chicago area. Possibly the salesperson could talk about the 43,982 people who died from drug overdoses in 2013 as reported by the CDC. Does SUAGV stand for educating parents and children about the risk and dangers of drugs and medical supplies? What about setting up a store featuring kitchen utensils and cutlery? Those shoppers could be told how Maksim Gelman
9 stabbed 3 people to death (his mother’s companion, a female acquaintance, the mother of the female acquaintance), killed a fourth person and wounded five others in New York City. Does SUAGV want to keep women safer by keeping knives out of the hands of domestic abusers? A liquor store selling Absolut vodka would be an appropriate setting for pointing out how Diane Schuler of West Babylon, NY, while driving under the influence, killed 4 little girls ranging in age from 2 to 8, the 2-year-old being her own daughter. Does SUAGV support having a driving record check for every bottle of alcohol purchased? On the SUAGV website, the first line on the page says, “States United to Prevent Gun Violence is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to making our families and communities safer.” How would their 150,000+ grassroots supporters respond to the four scenarios above? Would they be offended and not buy a vehicle, drugs and medical supplies, knives or alcohol? I believe every member of the organization and all of the grassroots supporters would be a hypocrite and say it’s not the same.
April 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Choosing and Using Scouting Cameras OV Outdoor Times
It’s spring… finally. Turkeys are gobbling, trout fishing is underway, and whitetails will soon be having their fawns. If all that isn’t enough, bucks will soon be developing antlers. It’s a By Ralph Scherder great time to be in Hunting Editor the woods or on the water. One of my favorite things to do this time of year is set up trail cameras. Most likely, once they’re set, I’ll keep them out until after deer season this fall. The main reason I set them up so early is that I enjoy seeing the steady development of deer antlers over a period of time. It’s neat to see a deer’s antlers start out as little nubs on its head and eventually form into a nice rack. Also, scouting cameras really aren’t a bad way to locate a spring gobbler to hunt. If I find turkey scratchings on an
oak flat, a scouting camera gives me an idea of what time birds are coming to that area to feed. Based on that information, I can then predict where they might be in the morning and how long it takes them to make their way to the feeding area. This comes in handy if I don’t have a lot of mornings to drive around prior to the season listening for gobblers. Without a doubt, scouting cameras are already one of the greatest tools in a deer hunter’s arsenal, so why not a turkey hunter’s too? Trail cameras are versatile, weatherproof, year-round scouters for serious hunters and weekend warriors alike. Arguably, trail cameras have lead to the demise of more mature whitetails than any other technological innovation in recent memory. They can also be a good hobby. Over the years, I’ve known several nonhunters who enjoy setting up and checking trail cameras on a regular basis just for the pleasure of doing so. Anything that can get people into the outdoors and make it a pleasurable experience is a
Over 30 Years of Doing Things Right
CONSTRUCTION, INC. The Petroleum Industry Jet Fueling Systems Gas Compressor Stations Headquarters 10422 South Avenue Youngstown, Ohio 44514 Phone 330-549-0349 Fax 330-549-0344 Email info@boltconstruction.cc
www.boltconstruction.cc
10
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of Ralph Scherder
With so many brands and models of trail camera on the market, how do you know which one to choose? This fawn photo was taken with a Bushnell model.
good thing. With so many brands and models on the market, though, how do you know which one to choose? My decision is usually made out of financial practicality. I buy what I can afford. Sometimes that means I buy the cheapest version I can find at Wal-Mart. Other times it
means I can splurge a little for a Browning. No matter the brand, all of them do a decent job – even the cheapest ones, to a certain degree. I guess it all depends on the results you expect to achieve and how important image quality is to you.
Indoor .22/Air Rifle Shooting - Apr. 14, 21, 28 (every Tues. thru April) 6-9 p.m. (open to public) at Columbiana County Fish & Game Association, 45716 Middle Beaver Rd, Lisbon, OH. Website: www.columbianacountyfishandgame.com.
Pioneer Village (at Beaver Creek State Park, Columbiana County) Comes Alive Water Adventures - May 2, Intro to Kayaking and Doug Fodrey Memorial Fishing Experience. Website: friendsofbeavercreekstatepark.org or email: fobcsp@gmail.com.
Gun Show by Mahoning Valley Gun Collector’s - April 18, 19 (9 a.m.-4 p.m.) at Lowellville Rod & Gun Club. Admission $4, vendor tables $25. Buy, sell, trade. Free appraisals, free parking. GPS address, 6225 Quarry Road, Lowellville, OH. For info. call Bill at 330-506-9194.
Gun Show - May 9-10 (9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sat. & 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sun.) at Beaver Creek Sportsman Club, 11480 Washingtonville Rd., Washingtonville, OH. Admission $5, Vendors $15 table per day. Contact Phil Brown at 330-482-5125 or 330-502-8429.
Turn To Cameras Page 11
Calendar of Events
Indoor Pistol Shooting - April 17, 24 (every Fri. thru Apr. 24) 7-10 p.m. (open to public) at Columbiana County Fish & Game Association, 45716 Middle Beaver Rd, Lisbon, OH. Also Indoor .22/Air Rifle Shooting every Tues. 6-9 p.m. New website: www.columbianacountyfishandgame.com.
3D Archery Shoots - April 25-26, May 2324, 30-31 (Schedule runs through Sept.) Lake Milton Fish & Game Club. Sat. 8 a.m.3 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m.-1 p.m.. Cost $10, cubs $5. Breakfast and lunch served. Crossbows permitted, no rangefinders. Contact Dennis Dabney at 330-414-5795.
Rabies Clinic - May 9 (9 a.m. - 3 p.m.) at Tri-State Coonhunters and Sportsmen’s Club in East Liverpool, OH. Cost $8 per animal. All animals. Shots by Dr. Jack Zines. Club located at: 2601 Irish Ridge Road, East Liverpool, OH 43920. Call 330-386-3220.
PA Trappers Association Rendezvous June 18-20, 2015 at Schuylkill County Fairgrounds, 2270 Fair Road, Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972. Demos, dealers, contests, auction, kid’s activities. $5 admission, $10 for three days. Contact Karen Mohn at 610-562-1790. www.patrappers.com.
April 2015
Cameras From Page 10
Usually the biggest factor determining price is the camera’s trigger speed. Cuddeback, known as one of the industry’s best scouting cameras (and for good reason), have a hair trigger and produce a sharp image. If an animal walks anywhere near it, the camera will snap its picture. They’re great cameras and worth every penny, but I don’t always have a couple hundred extra dollars to spend on one. I’ve had decent luck over the years using Tasco scouting cameras, despite the fact that they’re one of the cheapest on the market. Its trigger speed is a little slow, but produces pretty clear images. To offset the slower trigger speed, I usually place them on some sort of food source (mineral site, corn pile, or food plot) where I know the animal will be spending some time rather than passing through quickly. Some might argue that flash can spook animals, but I haven’t seen proof of this. If that’s a concern for you, there are infrared scouting cameras available, and their nighttime shots are still fairly clear. Another feature to consider is video. Some cameras are hybrids in that they can take both video and still shots back
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
to back, and you can manually set the duration for the video as well as the number of consecutive stills. I have a Bushnell hybrid that I really enjoy using. A while back I emailed Moultrie a list of questions about scouting cameras. One of their reps, Beth Lauderdale, replied to my questions and she had some interesting things to say about trail cameras. I figured I’d share some of those with you this month: Ralph Scherder: Why do you think scouting cameras have become so popular today? Beth Lauderdale: With technology continuing to advance in consumer electronics, it was only natural for the bug to hit hunters. Most hunters would be in the woods 24/7 if they could; scouting cameras allow them to do just that. Hunters can watch their herd year round. Scouting cameras have become so userfriendly and make hunting/scouting more enjoyable. There is a sense of instant gratification; especially now that scouting cameras are digital and some can even transmit images straight to your phone and computer. Ralph: How has digital technology improved the quality of scouting cameras? Are the photos sharper/clearer than the film cameras?
Beth: Digital technology has simplified scouting cameras. With film cameras, you had to travel to your camera at least once a week to change film, etc. Then you had to develop the film, which could get costly. Digital cameras give you virtually endless images. Longer battery life, and in some cases cellular transmission, allow you to visit your site less often. Digital scouting cameras are generally easier to use than film. Any photographer will tell you that pictures taken with film are sharper and clearer than digital; however, there is no denying that high-megapixel cameras on the market take clear pictures. Plus, digital images are extremely easy to edit, zoom and enlarge. Ralph: Is it okay to leave my scouting camera in the woods year round? Does weather ever affect them? Beth: Yes it is okay. For owners of Moultrie cameras, we recommend using our PowerPanel to extend battery life indefinitely. Does weather ever affect them? Prolonged extreme weather will over time affect cameras. Extreme weather being defined as two to three weeks of below freezing temperatures or any weather that is out of the ordinary. Turn To Cameras Page 13
11
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Ralph Scherder
No matter what brand of camera you select, all of them do a decent job – even the cheapest ones, to a certain degree.
12
Product Review
April 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
St.Croix Legend X Fly Rod OV Outdoor Times
If you’re looking for a very special gift (even if it’s for yourself), and have a need for a fly rod designed for larger gamefish – bass, northern pike, even muskies – strongly consider St. Croix’s By Jeff Knapp Fishing Editor Legend X series. Having had the chance to test St. Croix’s Legend X fly rod in a variety of venues during the past several months I can say that this is one sleek fly rod. If it had four wheels it would be a muscle car, yet one quite comfortable running down to the corner market to pick up the fixings for the day’s streamside fishing lunch. The Legend X is designed for targeting larger predatory fish – bass, muskies, northerns – big fish that often require the use of big, wind-resistant flies. It’s a nine-footer that’s offered in four models,
ones meant to throw from 7-weight up to 10-weight lines. The spring, when largemouth bass where moving into the shallows during early-season feeding forays, I used the Legend X (I have the 7-weight model) to catch green bass on both Clouser Minnows and topwater popping bugs. Since all of my other fly rods are of a somewhat softer action – and perform well in the tighter quarters where I normally fish – it took a few minutes to get in synch with the Legend X. But when I adjusted the acceleration of my back cast and forward cast – and properly loaded the rod – I was throwing tight casts that launched the flies well out over the emerging weedbeds. I could not only feel, but also hear the power of the rod, like it had a Corvette LT1 engine under its hood. A week later I was on a Great Lakes tributary where a run of late season steelhead had just entered the creek. The Legend X did an acceptable job of
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Jeff Knapp
For the angler that has a need for a fly rod designed for larger gamefish – bass, northern pike, even muskies – strongly consider St. Croix’s Legend X series.
roll-casting the two-fly rigging and bulky strike indicator used that day. This isn’t what the rod is designed for – my softer 10- foot St. Croix Imperial is a great choice for this particular application – but if you’re looking to get multiple use from the rod, and only make one or two steelhead outings a year, the Legend X will do the job. And if you decide
to switch over (from drifting egg patterns) to casting streamers the rod is perfect. This fall my friend Tom Ference joined me for an evening’s fishing on a smallmouth bass river – one that averages about 150 feet across. Tom’s an exTurn To Fly Rod Page 13
Send us your t rophy photos
Pam Williams 1st deer, muzzleloader Jefferson County, OH
For our Photo Showcase April George, age 11 jake, 17lb, shotgun Columbiana County, OH
email to: ohvod@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com mail to: Photo Showcase 210 East Fourth St. East Liverpool, OH 43920
www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
April 2015
Fly Rod From Page 12
tremely talented fly fisher, and has competed in ESPN’s Outdoor Games in distance casting. I handed the Legend X over to him for the outing. Here’s what Tom had to say after the outing: “First impressions are not always accurate. But in the case of my first outing using St Croix’s new Legend X series, it was extremely accurate. Accurate casting, along with my initial thoughts of it being a cool looking and nice feeling rod. “I began my evening fishing with a lightly-weighted size 2 streamer tied to an 8-pound-test leader. With a couple of 70 foot casts under my belt, I decided to give it a go with some longer ones. I was very pleased to see that it was more than ready to pump out a 100-foot cast with a minimum effort on my part. Very nice.” I agree with Tom’s assertion, that for the angler who is looking for the latest in technology in rod building, good looks, and high performance at a reasonable price, the Legend X should be given serious consideration. The MSRP for the St. Croix’s Legend X fly rod is $480.
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Fish Winterkill May Hit Ohio’s Ponds, Lakes
COLUMBUS, OH — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is reminding people that fish kills may be common in ponds and small lakes this spring. Winter die-offs of fish that result from long periods of heavy ice and snow cover on small waters are referred to as “winterkills.” Winterkills may occur in some Ohio waters this year as ice and snow of the past few months gives way to spring. Winterkills are caused when persistent ice forms a surface barrier between water and air that prevents circulation of oxygen and blocks sunlight. If these conditions continue long enough, the oxygen fish need to survive may be depleted and result in some or all of them suffocating. Lacking sunlight, plants stop making oxygen and eventually start to use it as they die back and decompose. Winterkill is most common in shallow
ponds and will become obvious if dead fish are seen along the shore. Ohio’s northern counties are most susceptible to winterkill because of colder temperatures and more frequent snows. However, similar to last year, winterkill of ponds is possible in any part of the state due to persistent cold weather and snow cover. Some fish die-offs are expected in Ohio’s larger lakes as well this year, but for different reasons. Fish which are less tolerant of long, cold winters, such as gizzard shad, are commonly seen along the shorelines of reservoirs and even Lake Erie during moderate winters. However, in larger waters, the species that commonly die off following winter are resilient and return in great numbers following a single spawning season. Go to wildohio.gov to find more information about fish and preventing winterkills. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
13 Cameras From Page 11
We recommend pulling cameras until the extreme weather is over. Ralph: Is there any other maintenance that should be performed in order to keep the camera operating smoothly? Beth: If you are going to leave it up all year, it would be a good idea to apply insecticide to the tree and ground around the camera (never on or in the camera) to keep the ants out as they can ruin the unit. Other than that, change batteries as needed. Ralph: What are a few features hunters should look for when buying a scouting camera? Beth: Features that hunters should focus on when buying a scouting camera really vary depending on how they will be using it (i.e. over a feeder, on a trail, for security, etc.). First, a hunter should figure out whether they want/need a flash camera or infrared camera. We also recommend customers to consider flash range, megapixels, battery life, trigger speed and photo information (i.e. moon phase, temperature, etc.).
14
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Y outh O utdoors
April 2015
PA Releases Deer Harvest Count for 2014-15
HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Game Commission reported that, in the state’s 2014-15 seasons, hunters Storie s Written by Ohi o V alley’s Young Hunters & Fisherm en harvested an estimated 303,973 deer — a decrease of about 14 percent compared On November 24, 2014, me, my dad, to the 2013-14 harvest of 352,920. and my papaw went down to Belleville, Hunters took 119,260 antlered deer in WV on Lee Creek Road in Wood the 2014-15 seasons a decrease of about County, to go deer hunting. 11 percent compared to the previous liWe parked the truck walked to the cense year, when an estimated 134,280 blind and waited. A little 7-pointer came bucks were taken. Also, hunters harin. My dad put my 223 caliber AR15 out vested an estimated 184,713 antlerless the window while I crawled up on my deer in 2014-15, which represents an papaw’s lap. I moved the scope around about 16 percent decrease compared to to where I wanted to shoot the deer at. I the 218,640 antlerless deer taken in lined it up at the front shoulder of the 2013-14. buck. Then I carefully pulled the trigger! The Game Commission last year reI shot it! duced the number of antlerless licenses My daddy got out of the blind to go available for sale. Fewer licenses were see if he could find any blood. He came allocated in nearly every Wildlife Manback to the blind and said “the deer is agement Unit, and statewide, 59,500 dead” to me! Then me, my dad, and my fewer antlerless licenses were issued. papaw got out of the blind. We followed Reducing the allocation within a Ohio Valley Outdoors the blood trail to my 1st buck! We took Wildlife Management Unit allows deer Cade Staats, age 6 pictures and then field dressed it. My dad numbers to grow there. Records show it 1st buck, 7pt., 223 caliber AR 15 and papaw drug it out of the woods. We takes an allocation of about four antlerWood County, WV put the deer in the back of the buggy and less licenses to harvest one antlerless strapped him down. Then we all got in deer, so a reduced antlerless harvest was the truck and went to James IGA where We took it home to finish the processing anticipated due to a reduced allocation. I checked in my 1st kill, a 7-point buck! and to show my mom and sisters. Additionally, the weather during the
two-week firearms deer season was less than ideal in much of the state. Some parts of the state saw unusually high temperatures on the season’s opening day. Harvest estimates are based on more than 24,000 deer checked by Game Commission personnel and more than 100,000 harvest reports submitted by successful hunters. Because some harvests go unreported, estimates provide a more accurate picture of hunter success. However, in 2014-15 the rate at which successful hunters reported their harvests increased slightly. The 2014-15 harvest contained its highest percentage of adult bucks in decades. Of the antlered deer taken, 43 percent were 1 1/2-year-old bucks, with the remaining 57 percent being 2 1/2 years old or older. The antlerless harvest included about 61 percent adult females, about 20 percent button bucks and about 18 percent doe fawns. The rates are similar to longterm averages. The antlerless success rate remained about 25 percent for the licenses issued. For additional information, go to the agency’s website: www.pgc.state.pa.us.
April 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Ohio Ice Fisherman Named to Team USA
GROVE CITY, OH — Columbus, Ohio resident Scott Albrecht, an avid ice fisherman from near Columbus, OH, has been selected to join the 2016 USA Ice Team. Albrecht will represent Team USA, as a spotter, when the 2016 team travels to either Poland or Latvia to compete in the World Ice Fishing Championships. Albrecht is the first USA Ice Team member to represent the state of Ohio. “I want to be an ambassador for ice fishing in this region. I travel across the country each winter to share my love for the sport of ice fishing, but people don’t realize that there’s a lot of ice in Ohio, and some great fishing,” said Albrecht. The WIFC is a semi-Olympic event that 1314 countries send a team to each year. USA has been consistently sending teams since 2009 and won Gold in 2010 in Rhinelander, WI. The 2015 team plans to travel to Finland at the end of March to fish in the WIFC event this year. To qualify for the team Albrecht traveled to Rhinelander, WI in late February to fish in a tryout event. For more information about Albrecht, and how to help him raise funds for traveling, visit
Ohio Valley Outdoors - Photo courtesy of Scott Albrecht
Scott Albrecht shows off his catch while pre-fishing for Team USA tryouts in Rhinelander Wisconsin. This sized bluegill is the fish size we will be catching overseas.
www.iceprofromohio.com. To track the teams progress or for more information on Team USA visit http://usaiceteam.com/.
Ohio Gun Suppressor Law Takes Effect
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — A new state law that relaxes some requirements for concealed carry permits and allows hunters to use noise suppressors under certain conditions is set to take effect in Ohio. The law approved by the Legislature and signed by Gov. John Kasich last year went into effect on March 30, 2015, The Columbus Dispatch reported (http://bit.ly/1Ft7lPc ). It allows licensed hunters to use noise suppressors while hunting certain birds and other wild game, including squirrels, rabbits and white-tailed deer. Opponents of the law have said quieter weapons aren’t as safe and are easier to use illegally. The law also reduces the training time to get a concealed weapons permit from a minimum of 12 hours to eight, including two hours devoted to range time and live-fire training. Additionally, the new law makes concealed carry permits issued from other states valid in Ohio without a reciprocity agreement. More rigorous background checks for concealed carry permits will also go into effect under the law. Sheriffs can now check three national databases of criminal history records instead of just one maintained by Ohio’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
NW PA Fishing Report Available Online
Fishing expert and outdoor writer Darl Black will again offer his latest fishing report, based on the waters of northwest Pennsylvania. The NW PA Fishing Report will be available this spring and summer on the Ohio Valley Outdoors magazine website (www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com). The report is provided by Darl Black and several sponsors: PA Great Lakes Region tourism; Black Knight Industries, home of Gamma Line and Wiegel Brothers Marine, of Franklin, PA. Also find the report and other
PA outdoor news at: www.PaGreatLakes.com. The fishing report provides timely angling information for Crawford, Erie, Mercer and Venango Counties in PA – covering all species and all waters open to the public. Fishing comments and photos are offered by regional tackle shops and area anglers, complied and published twice a month. To share your fishing experiences or photos from any waterway in the four counties, email Black at darlblack@windstream.net.
15
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
16
Vinesca Surmaceviz, age 10 8-pt., buck 14-1/4” spread Columbiana County, OH
L.D. Stutler buck, 19” spread Wirt County, WV
Rick & Bill Stockburger 3 lbs 3 oz... Westville Lake, OH
April 2015
Denny Myers 20.08 lbs. turkey with a 9-1/2" beard Beloit, OH
Cathy McLain Columbiana County, OH
Send Us Your Photos
Dylan Edwards 21lbs., 9" beard, 7/8" spurs Athens, OH
Eric Mehalko largemouth bass using green pumpkin java tubes
Marissa Sheehn w/father Leonard 8-pt. buck Plum Brook Station, 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
April 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
17
Shawn Johnston smallmouth bass Ohio river
Austin Cutri, age 6 1st turkey, 20 gauge Mingo Junction, OH
Lexi Highman 20-lbs., longbeard Monroe County, OH
John Thomas 26-1/2lbs. Columbiana County, OH
Rick Honaker 20-lbs., spring turkey
Benny Wright III 23.58-lbs., 11" beard, Carroll County, OH
Rick Honaker 45lbs., coyote
Dan Hilliard 10" beard, 1" spurs Columbiana County, OH
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
18
April 2015
www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
Ohio Valley Outdoors
You need more customers! YOUR CARD HERE
Clarke, Sibole Honored by WV Chapter of NWTF
FLATWOODS, WV — Mark Clarke, wildlife manager on the Elk River Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Braxton County, recently was selected by the West Virginia State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) as their 2014 Wildlife Manager of the Year. Clarke was presented the NWTF’s “Making Tracks Award” at their annual awards banquet in January, by Chapter President Scott Wilson. At the same event, Natural Resources Police Cpl. Michael Sibole of the DNR Law Enforcement Section was presented the Sharp Spur Award in recognition of his dedication to protecting the wildlife resources of West Virginia. Sibole is stationed in Berkeley County in Division of Natural Resources District 2. Clarke began his career with the Division of Natural Resources in May 1989 on the Elk River WMA. He was in-
Contact Sales Consultant Tracy Bissell at 330-385-2243
volved in the wild turkey trapping and relocation program that established birds throughout Braxton and Clay counties. Clarke also played an active role in West Virginia’s wild turkey population dynamics study that was completed in the mid-1990s. This study helped to formulate an understanding of wild turkey biology, including survival and mortality factors. Findings from this research greatly enhanced DNR’s ability to manage this important resource. Clarke continues to work with various organizations and community groups to teach youngsters about wildlife conservation. He has been an outstanding contributor to outdoor education programs in public schools, 4-H programs and the annual Envirothon in Braxton County. He has worked with Boy Scout programs, church camps, Arbor Day activities and summer programs at the local
library. Clarke prepared grant proposals to purchase wildlife books and other educational material for schools in Braxton County. Weyerhaeuser and local Rotary clubs provided funding for these projects and purchased wildlife books for six elementary school libraries in Braxton County. Clarke has been active in implementing forest management practices on Elk River WMA. He has established important young forest habitat on the area by harvesting timber in a sound and sustainable fashion. Several wildlife clearings Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of WVDNR have been incorporated into these timber Mark Clarke (left) was selected was the sales that provide outstanding habitat for NWTF 2014 Wildlife Manager of the Year in wild turkey broods and other wildlife. West Virginia. He’s shown with Chapter Cpl. Mark Sibole made two turkey President Scott Wilson. poaching arrests in 2014 following detailed investigations and was part of several turkey decoy operations. He also shooter. was assigned as the lead officer during a As part of his community outreach dunegligent shooting investigation, docu- ties, he attends the Berkeley County menting the shooting scene with Youth Fair, gives safety talks to hunting sketches, photos and statements. This re- organizations, and teaches hunter and sulted in a guilty plea from the accused boater education.
April 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Hunter-Trapper Education Classes Available in PA
HARRISBURG, PA — New hunters can beat the rush, get a license in time for gobbler season by taking a course this spring. Those who plan to purchase their first hunting license this year will need to make plans to attend a Hunter-Trapper Education course, and classes are being held at locations across the state, according to the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Springtime is a great time to complete the course. Because the fall hunting seasons – and the corresponding rush for new hunters to become certified – still are months away, it can be easier to find a class now compared to later in the year. Plus, those who complete the class now, still will have time to buy a license and hunt in the upcoming spring gobbler season, and will be able to apply for a 2015-16 antlerless deer license before they sell out. To register for a course in your area, visit GoHuntPA.org and click on the “Learn to Hunt” link, or go to the Game Commission’s website
(www.pgc.state.pa.us), and click on “Hunter Education Classes” icon in the center of the homepage. Persons 16 years of age or older also may elect to take the new fully online Hunter-Trapper Education course, which also takes about six hours to complete. Those who are certified through the online course must pay a $19.50 fee upon completion. Andy Hueser, a hunter-education specialist with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, said most students continue to prefer the classroom-taught courses. More than 41,000 individuals took Hunter-Trapper Education courses throughout the state last year. There is no fee for the basic, classroom-taught course. Pre-registration is required and online registration is available for all courses through the Class Calendar. Prior to arriving at their class, students are asked to review four chapters of their student manual, which is available online when you register. Participants must attend all instruction before taking a test at the end of the course. Youngsters must
be at least 11 years old to receive certification. Successful completion of a basic Pennsylvania Hunter-Trapper Education class, or another state’s equivalent course, is required by state law to obtain a first-time hunting or furtaker license, regardless of age. In addition, registrations are being accepted for other educational programs offered by the Game Commission, including Successful Turkey Hunting, Successful Bowhunting, Successful Furtaking and Cable Restraint Certification. The Successful Turkey Hunting course is designed to provide the knowledge and skills needed to hunt safely and confidently in both spring and fall seasons. Veterans will learn methods and techniques that will help them become better hunters. Students will receive a 140-page student guide and a diaphragm turkey call as part of the program. Classes started this spring and continue through the summer and early fall. A $15 fee is being charged to offset costs. The Successful Bowhunting course is a one-day voluntary training program for those seeking to expand their skills and knowledge of bowhunting. Although Pennsylvania doesn’t require archers to complete a bowhunting edu-
19 cation course before they purchase an archery license, certification for this course is required to bowhunt in some other states. There is a $20 course fee, which covers the cost of the online study course required before attending the class. Successful Furtaking is a one-day training program that provides extensive hands-on training to new and experienced furtakers. The course promotes Best Management Practices and is designed for any person seeking to learn more about furtaking and to improve his or her skills and success. The course includes the cable-restraint certification that is required to participate in Pennsylvania’s cable-restraint season for foxes and coyotes. This course also fulfills the requirement that all first-time furtaker license buyers pass either a basic trapper education course or basic Pennsylvania HTE course. A $15 course fee is charged. The Cable Restraint Certification course is required for those trappers seeking to participate in Pennsylvania’s annual trapping season in which cable restraints are used to capture coyotes and foxes. The course fee is $15, and students will get to keep various education materials.