DRONES TO STALK ANGLERS? - P.18
Miracle Lure
Story inside page 8
Staying Scent Free OV Outdoor Times
Many of us go to great lengths to make sure our hunting clothing and gear are as scent-free as possible. We wash them in scent-killing detergent, use scent-killing dryer sheets, spray them with odor elim- By Ralph Scherder inator, store them in Hunting Editor sealed plastic totes or garbage bags – and then wear them in the truck on our way to our hunting area. What?! Yes, I know. It makes no sense to me, either. Why bother going through all the trouble of eliminating odors if you’re going to wear them in your vehicle? Or worse, put them on while still at home. Talk about shooting yourself in the proverbial foot. I used to hunt with a guy who followed all the right steps in preparing his hunting clothes, yet every morning when I picked him up, he was already wearing them. When we got to the location and I took a few extra minutes to change from my regular clothes into my hunting duds, he thought I was crazy, especially on cold November mornings. Sure, nobody likes to be half naked when there’s frost on the
EE!
Outdoor Times October 2014
ground, but I believed in the process. I told him that, yes, I may be a little crazy, but didn’t he ever wonder why I always saw more deer than him? He blamed it on me having a better spot. The times when we traded stands, though, I still saw more deer than he did, and many times he complained about spooking deer for no apparent reason. On the other hand, when I spooked deer, I always knew why – either they saw me or got directly downwind of me and there was nothing I could do. It’s almost impossible to be 100% scent free. Regardless of the name brand clothing or fancy, odor-eliminating products on the market, we’ll never be completely scent free. The skin on our face, neck, and hands, our breath, and even our eyeballs give off scent. Any exposed part of our body produces scent, and a whitetail’s nose is so good that no matter how small the amount, they will detect human odor. However, how they interpret that odor is a whole other matter. I’ve always looked at odor eliminators in a different way than most hunters. Their value, to me, has more to do with “watering down” scent rather than totally eliminating it. In essence, I’m trying to manipulate how a deer interprets my scent if it should happen to get downwind of me. Even if the deer winds me, I want it to believe that danger has already passed. How a deer reacts to human odor varies. Deer evaluate the strength of the Turn To Scent Free Page 4
Ohio Valley
FR
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Bill Hall, Jr.
Hannah Hall, age 9, took this 2014 buck with a crossbow in Licking County, OH. The buck, Hannah’s second, was an eight point, taken from 15 yards on an 80+ degree day.
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
INSIDE THIS MONTH
3 Warmer Weather 6
11
Inaugural Paddlefest a Success
Again Kicks Off Deer-Archery Season
12 Bushnell’s First Strike
Caldwell Creek Fall Trout
7
Jolene Craig
Jeff Knapp
14
Bill Waugaman
Reflex Red Dot
Manhunt Places Hunting Seasons on Hold
Fishing With Darl Black
8 It’s a Miracle
Larry Claypool
Curt Grimm
10 WV’s Deer, Bear (Minnow)
WVDNR
Archery Season Open
9 Recipe: Diane’s Crockpot OUTDOOR CALENDAR
Fall Turkey Shoots - Oct. 19, 26; Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23 (10 a.m.) at Chester-Newell Sportsmen’s Club, 592 Dairy Lane, New Manchester, WV (Gas Valley Road, behind Green Valley Dairy). For info. call 304-564-3580 or 304-374-5587. Turkey Shoots - Oct. 19, 26; Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23 (1 p.m.) at Lake Milton Fish & Game Club, 4374 Bedell Rd, Berlin Center, OH 44401. $2 per round. See www.lakemiltonfishandgame.com or call Ron at 330-348-4020. Gun and Sporting Goods Show - Sept. 27-28 (Sat. 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.; Sun. 9 a.m.- 2p.m.) at Hidden Valley Sportsmen’s Club, 268 Gilkey Road, West Middlesex, PA 16159. Admission $4 (kids under 12 free with paid adult). Call clubhouse for info. at 724-528-2700. Military Surplus Show - Nov. 15-16 (9 a.m.-5 p.m.) at Lowellville Rod and Gun Club, GPS address 6225 Quarry Road, Lowellville, OH. Admission $2 donation. Shooting and Hunting Supplies, U.S. GI clothes and field equipment. Vendor tables available. Call Bill at 330-755-2077.
Ohio Valley
Thousands of people each year travel to Benezette, PA to catch a glimpse of the majestic elk that roam this region. A great time to do that is during the rut season, late September and early October. The By Larry Claypool added bonus this time of Editor year is being able to hear the bull elk’s mating call — known as bugling. For the second straight year I traveled to ‘elk country’ to view and photograph the elk, and be entertained by competing bulls trumpeting back and forth. Again my trip to Elk County, PA, in the northcentral part of the state, was hosted by Industry, PA residents and brothers Curt and Gary Grimm. This time we were able track down a dozen or so elk on the first evening we reached Benezette. After nearly a mile of hiking through woods and trails we honed in on a few bugling bulls along a secluded hillside, located on state game lands and part of several acres of reclaimed coal mines. There were three bulls and about 7-8 cows in the area. One pretty large bull, an odd 7 x 5, was definitely in charge of this herd. The bull ended up being the largest bull we’d see during our two-day trip. Actually we ended up seeing this bull two other times while photographing the elk herds. At one point on Saturday afternoon, normally busiest time for tourist to visit the area, only a single bull elk could be seen grazing at the edge of a large field which sits nearly a half mile from the main viewing area parking lot. That single bull was the 7 x 5 we’d been close to on Friday. This time we got within about 100 yards of the bull, not wanting to push it into the woods and out of viewing range of the large crowd that gathered at the top of the viewing area.
October 2014
Later on Saturday we returned to the woods and eventually found more elk, bulls and cows — and yes, the odd 7 x 5 and some of his harem. There was also another nice 6 x 6 in the area. As we moved to get a closer look at this herd we found a rather large bedding area. This must have been a major gathering spot for the elk during the winter months. It was nestled in a grove of pine trees and wild Boston ferns. We had passed through this area during our early morning jaunt and found only some large dew-laced spider webs, which we all photographed. Our hiking experience during the late Saturday afternoon trip was a little different. Mostly due to the fact that so many other people were in the woods. That included a few very aggressive photographers that felt the need to actually chase down, and push, the elk to get photographs. These large animals will let you get pretty close to them (we’ve gotten as close as 30 yards), but if they feel threatened they will charge at you. Most times though they’ll just scamper away to another field or wooded area. We actually used this to our advantage as we let others push the elk toward our position. It helped that the Grimm brothers know the state game lands well and they knew where the large elk would eventually head. We did get into place, and the elk did come our way, but they were traveling too fast for any photographs to be taken. The two bulls that were worth pursuing had their escape route planned and headed into a deeply wooded area, out of sight from anyone’s camera. At that point it was nearly dusk and time to head back home. But we did manage some great photographs and videos during the trip. It did help that some of the trees had turned into fall colors and offered a beautiful backdrop. NOTE: See a few photos from this trip on Page 19.
To Advertise CALL 330-385-2243 Publisher/Editor, Larry Claypool lclaypool@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
Outdoor Times October 2014
Roaming Central PA OV Outdoor Times
2
Graphics Designer, Linda McKenzie lmckenzie@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
VOL. 6, NO. 10
is published by Ohio Valley Outdoors Magazine
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Ohio Valley Outdoor Times
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Contributing Editors
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October 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Warmer Weather Again Kicks off Ohio’s Deer-Archery Season
COLUMBUS, OH — Many whitetail deer hunters opted not to hit the woods on opening day of Ohio’s archery deer season on September 27, due to very warm temperatures, which climbed into the 80s. Cooler temperatures did prevail the first weekend of October, which did provide more comfortable conditions and some successful hunting. Archery season for deer continues through February 1, 2015, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) . Below is a list of Ohio’s 2014-2015 deer seasons: • Archery: Sept. 27-Feb. 1, 2015. • Youth gun: Nov. 22-23. • Gun: Dec. 1-7. • Muzzleloader: Jan. 2-5, 2015. All deer hunters are required to have a valid Ohio hunting license and a valid deer permit. Details about deer hunting rules are contained in the 2014-2015 Ohio Hunting Regulations, available where licenses are sold, or at wildohio.gov. Antlerless permit use was changed for the upcoming deer hunting seasons, and these permits are no longer valid in some counties (see bag limit map). Antlerless permits will be valid in the remaining counties until Nov. 30, the Sunday before the deer-gun season. Only one antlerless permit may be used per county, regardless of the bag limit. Deer bag limits are determined by county (see bag limit map), but no more than nine deer may be taken from all counties combined. The statewide bag limit is nine deer, but a hunter cannot exceed a county bag limit. Additional ODNR Division of Wildlife authorized controlled hunting opportunities do not count against statewide or county bag limits. Hunters may harvest only one buck in Ohio, regardless of method of take or location. Archers hunting during the statewide gun, youth gun and muzzleloader seasons must meet the hunter orange requirement. Deer hunting hours are 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes past sunset for all deer seasons. This includes gun and muzzleloader seasons. New this year, specific straight-walled cartridge rifles are now legal for use during the deer-gun and youth deer-gun seasons. These specific straight-walled cartridge rifles are legal for deer hunting: .357 Magnum, .357 Maximum, .38 Special, .375 Super Magnum, .375 Winchester, .38-55, .41 Long Colt, .41 Magnum,
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Bill Hall, Jr.
Bill Hall, Sr. took this nine-point buck in Licking County, OH with a crossbow from 35 yards out, a left-handed shot on opening day 2014.
.44 Special, .44 Magnum, .444 Marlin, .45 ACP, .45 Colt, .45 Long Colt, .45 Winchester Magnum, .45 Smith & Wesson, .454 Casull, .460 Smith & Wesson, .45-70, .45-90, .45-110, .475 Linebaugh, .50-70, .50-90, .50-100, .50-110 and .500 Smith & Wesson. Shotguns and straightwalled cartridge rifles may have no more than three shells in the magazine and chamber combined while deer hunting. Also, hunters can search historical records of Ohio’s top-scoring deer in a partnership between the ODNR Division of Wildlife and the Buckeye Big Buck Club. A complete database of top deer scores, complete with rankings, hunter’s name, county of the kill and more, is available at wildohio.gov. Ohio ranks No. 7 nationally for the number of trophy deer as compiled by the Boone and Crockett Club through 2011. Hunters are required to make their own game tag to attach to a deer. Game tags can be made of any material (cardboard, plastic, paper, etc.) as long as it contains the hunter’s name, date, time and county of the kill. Go to the Deer Hunting Resources page at wildohio.gov for more information about the game check process. All hunters must report their deer harvest using the automated game-check Turn To Weather Page 5
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4 Scent Free From Page 1
smell to determine the risk potential. A strong odor, naturally, means immediate danger. A weaker odor, therefore, signals that while danger was in the area not long ago, it has most likely moved on. Deer can wind you and become alerted but not necessarily spook. When you see a doe stop, throw her nose in the air, and start stomping her foot, you know she smells something – but she doesn’t bolt right away because she’s trying to determine the level and exact location of the threat. On many occasions, I’ve had deer do this and still not spook. I’ve even had them snort and bound off a few yards only to gradually work their way back toward my stand. Many times I think they do this in an attempt to get a reaction. They sense something is there (or was there) and are attempting to make the predator give away its location. When they bolt and nothing pursues them, and the odor doesn’t get stronger, they realize there’s no reason to worry. Every individual deer is different, of course, and some have a higher tolerance to human scent than others, depending on where they live. Without a doubt, scent-eliminating
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
products are a valuable part of my system. I start with washing my clothes in scent-killing detergent, and then I hang them outside to air dry. Once dry, I place them in a garbage bag, and then place the garbage bag inside a plastic tote. All of my equipment – bow, arrows, grunt call, etc. – gets sprayed with odor eliminator. This is especially important if you keep your equipment in the house over night where it can pick up foreign odors. Failing to spray your equipment is, in my opinion, the equivalent of wearing your hunting clothes in the truck. I wash my clothes every week throughout the season, especially during warm weather or if I have a long walk to my stand and constantly work up a sweat. Most clothing designed to block scent contains particles within the fabric that traps and neutralizes odor and prevents it from escaping. Over time, these particles “fill up” to the point where they don’t catch all of the odor – it’s like filling a gas tank too full; gas leaks out. Washing and drying your clothing on a weekly basis will clean the particles in the fabric so that they can function at optimum levels. Also, some clothes require heat to initially activate the particles within the clothing. I store the plastic tote, along with my
October 2014
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Ralph Scherder
Quality scent-eliminating products help you stay scent-free in the deer woods all season long.
hunting boots, in the back of my truck. On cold November mornings, I’m always sure to wear a warm base layer of clothing and I buy clothing that fits loose enough to easily slip over top. That way I’m not standing half naked in the dark trying to get dressed. I keep a bottle of scent-eliminating spray in my backpack for everyday use. When I get to my treestand, I spray some
on my hat, hands, and rub it on the back of my neck or any exposed sweaty areas. When I get back to the truck after hunting, my clothes go back into the garbage bag and into the tote, and so do my boots. While it’s nearly impossible to be completely, 100% scent free, I’ve noticed that if I stick to this regimen and take nothing for granted, I come pretty darn close.
October 2014
Weather From Page 3
system. Game-check transactions are available online and by phone seven days a week, including holidays. Hunters with a deer permit have three options to complete the game check: • Online at ohiogamecheck.com; • Call 877-TAG-ITOH (824-4864); or • Visit a license agent. A list of agents can be found at wildohio.gov or by calling 800-WILDLIFE (945-3543). Landowners exempt from purchasing a deer permit, and others not required to purchase a deer permit, cannot use the 877-TAG-ITOH option. Landowners and others not required to obtain a permit have the following game-check options: • Online at ohiogamecheck.com; • Visit a license agent; or • Call 866-703-1928 for operator assisted landowner game-check (a convenience fee of $5.50 applies). Hunting is the best and most effective management tool for maintaining Ohio’s healthy deer population. During the 2013-2014 season, Ohio hunters checked 191,459 deer. Ohio ranks fifth nationally in resident hunters and 11th in the number of jobs associated with hunting-related industries. Hunting has a
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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. 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. This ensures that Ohio’s deer herd is maintained at a level that is both acceptable to most, and biologically sound. Until recently, the populations in nearly all of Ohio’s counties were well above their target numbers. In the last few years, through increased harvests, dramatic strides have been made in many counties to bring those populations closer toward their goal. Once a county’s deer population is near goal, harvest regulations are adjusted to maintain the population. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
WVDNR Acquires Two New Wildlife Management Areas in Preston County
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — Two new wildlife management areas (WMAs), both in Preston County, have been acquired by The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR), according to Curtis I. Taylor, chief of the DNR Wildlife Resources Section. “These new public lands will provide outdoor enthusiasts with additional opportunities for hunting, trapping, fishing and other wildlife-related activities,” Taylor said. “In addition, these WMAs contain important habitat types and unique wildlife species which, under the management of the Wildlife Resources Section, can be responsibly conserved into the future.” Cheat Canyon Wildlife Management Area The Cheat Canyon WMA (3,836 acres) was the collaborative effort of several acquisition partners, including federal and state agencies, non-governmental organizations and corporate and private donors. In addition, a section of the Allegheny Trail through the Cheat Canyon previously closed to public use is re-opened on the WMA for hiking and
wildlife viewing. The Cheat Canyon WMA is composed of very steep and rocky terrain primarily from rim-to-rim in the Cheat Canyon. Access into the WMA from the south is via Beech Run Road (County Route 26/23) and from the north by County Route 14/4 from Mount Nebo or Bull Run. Hunting opportunities exist for deer, black bear, wild turkey, coyote and squirrel. Limited trapping is available with raccoon, coyote, bobcat and fisher being common species available. Fairfax Pond - Rehe Wildlife Management Area The Fairfax Pond - Rehe WMA (638 acres) is located near Reedsville, West Virginia. It is composed of moderate-togently rolling slopes with mixed hardwood forests, open fields and a diverse wetland complex in the valley. Access to the Fairfax Pond - Rehe WMA can be gained from State Route 92 on Arthur Road (County Route 92/1) and Dogtown Road. Additional information on both of these WMAs is available by contacting the Farmington District 1 DNR office at 304-825-6787.
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WVDNR Seeks Volunteers for Bowhunter Survey
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — With the opening of archery seasons for deer and bear on September 27, West Virginia bowhunters are encouraged to participate in the West Virginia Bowhunter Survey. The Bowhunter Survey was initiated in 1995 as a cooperative effort between the West Virginia Bowhunters Association and the DNR to monitor wildlife populations. “The Bowhunter Survey supplies a wealth of information to the DNR and hunters about wildlife population trends, deer habitats and hunters’ opinions in West Virginia,” said Chris Ryan, Supervisor of Game Management Services for the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR). “Bowhunters typically sit in one spot for long periods of time and are natural wildlife observers. DNR uses their observations to monitor species such as fox and gray squirrels, black bears, bobcats and coyotes,” Ryan said. Cooperators will get a printed copy of the results before next year’s hunting season with all of this useful information. Hunters wishing to participate in
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of WVDNR
West Virginia bowhunters are asked to participate in the DNR’s annual Bowhunters Survey.
this survey should contact Tammie Thompson (phone 304-637-0245 or email Tammie.E.Thompson@wv.gov) to obtain a survey form.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Caldwell Creek Fall Trout OV Outdoor Times
Propelled by a delicate roll cast, the green caddis larvae fly landed lightly in the clear, cool water of the West Branch of Caldwell Creek. The modest current washed the size 12 fly downstream to a By Jeff Knapp submerged tree Fishing Editor branch, where a 12inch wild brown trout shot out from the protection of a nearby undercut bank and seized it. The determined trout put on an energetic fight but soon gave in to the strain of the 4-weight, 7.5 foot fly rod. Less than a half-hour in to the trip and the ice had been broken, a nice way to start off the morning on a stream we’d never visited before, and under tough, low/clear water conditions. My good friend Tom Ference and I were in the middle phase of a recent weekend trip during which we’d also fish for native brook trout and river smallmouth bass, using my northern Clarion
County camp as a base. The night before — before darkness settled in — we’d managed to land a few native brookies from a mountain run close to camp. Following our Caldwell adventure we had a decent evening trip for Clarion River smallmouth bass. The West Branch of Caldwell Creek – located in southwestern Warren County (Pennsylvania) — is a large tributary to the main stem of Caldwell. The West Branch joins the upper portion of Caldwell Creek near the town of Selkirt. Caldwell continues its journey southward for about 10 miles before joining with Pine Creek in southeastern Crawford County, which in turn joins Oil Creek near the Drake’s Well museum. The section of the West Branch that Tom and I fished is managed with Catch and Release regulations. Trout fishing is permitted year-round, but no trout can be killed or had in possession. Tackle is restricted to flies and artificial lures. The special regulations section extends for over three-and-a-half miles, from West Branch Bridge (located on Flat Road) upstream to the mouth of Three Bridge Run.
October 2014
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Jeff Knapp
Tom Ference works a pool of the West Branch of Caldwell Creek during an early fall outing.
While the section above Three Bridge Run is stocked, the project waters are not, replying on the supply of stream-bred trout and the catch and release restriction to sustain the fishery. A short distance below the downstream boundary of the project waters the West Branch joins Caldwell Creek proper.
Tom and I parked at the lower end of the special regulations section and fished nearly a mile up from the Flat Road bridge. The low flow and clear water eliminated many areas that would likely be productive during wetter times. Turn To Trout Page 7
October 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Trout Up From Page 6
Rocky runs, in many cases, didn’t offer much in the way of cover under the low flow. But there are many deeper pools complete with log jams, as well as numerous undercut banks. The limited access to this section ensures an experience that includes a strong sense of remoteness. This stream is heavily wooded, which greatly aids in its ability to stay cool. While some areas are covered with hemlock, which means a fairly open understory that’s easy to navigate, many areas have thicker growth which is more difficult to hike through, particularly when wearing waders. There is also at least one significant beaver dam and meadow that requires a by-pass. Fishing the stream entails some effort, particularly if you plan to get back from the road a good ways. Water quality in the West Branch is good. It supports a fine population of mayflies, stoneflies and caddis flies. We observed a good number of minnows as well as crawfish. The main stem of Caldwell Creek also offers good trout fishing. While it is stocked with hatchery fish it also has a good number of wild fish, and has a reputation for holding over stocked trout.
Manhunt Places Hunting Seasons on Hold
HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Game Commission temporarily closed all hunting and trapping seasons within seven townships in northeastern Pennsylvania, where the search continues for a fugitive wanted in the shooting death of a state police trooper. Game Commission Executive Director R. Matthew Hough recently issued an executive order to close temporarily the hunting and trapping seasons within Price, Barrett and Paradise townships in Monroe County; and Blooming Grove, Porter, Lehman and Greene townships in Pike County. The townships all are within Wildlife Management Unit 3D. The closure affects all private and public lands, including the portions of State Game Lands 180, 183 and 221 located within those townships. Those portions of game lands are closed to all public access while the executive order is in effect. Hunting and trapping seasons will remain closed in the identified townships until the executive order is lifted, which will be announced by the Game Com-
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mission in a statewide news release that will be posted on the agency’s website at the time it is issued. The closure was initiated after the Pennsylvania State Police advised that troopers who are part of the search for fugitive Eric Frein had uncovered explosive devices that apparently were left behind in wooded areas by the fugitive, and would pose an obvious danger to anyone who would encounter them. Hough said the discovery of the devices, and the danger associated with the search effort in general, would pose “While we realize this temporary closure might disappoint some of the hunters and trappers it affects, we’re certain, too, they understand the gravity of the situation, as well as the danger in allowing the seasons to continue as scheduled, given this new information,” Hough said. “Plenty of good hunting and trapping opportunities remain outside of the temporarily closed area, and we need hunters to readily adjust their plans to help bring resolution to this case and see that justice is served.” Frein is wanted in the September 12
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ambush-shooting death of Pennsylvania State Police Cpl. Bryon Dickson II outside the state police barracks in Blooming Grove, Pike County. Trooper Alex Douglass was wounded in the attack. The search for Frein has continued since, and police recently discovered explosive devices – at least one of which was attached to a trip wire – in the area they were searching. The Pennsylvania Game and Wildlife Code authorizes the Game Commission to close any hunting or trapping season, or otherwise take necessary action, to assure the purposes of the code, including assuring the health and safety of the persons who hunt or take game and wildlife. Game Commissioner James J. Delaney Jr. , who represents Pike, Monroe and other northeastern Pennsylvania counties as part of the eight-member board that sets policy for the Game Commission, said the temporary closure is supported in full by the commissioners and is necessary given the totality of circumstances.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
It’s a Miracle (Minnow) OV Outdoor Times
The Miracle Minnow is still alive and doing well. I remember how famous the Miracle Minnow was for catching smallmouth bass in Beaver Creek (Columbiana County, OH). When I was very young, my By Curt Grimm dad and his friends The Marathon Hunter would go fishing and always had a few Miracle Minnows in their fishing boxes. It seemed to be more valuable than their lunch that they packed. When they returned home I would hear stories of how many fish they caught and the thrill of how the “fish broke the water” and “put up a great fight”. I knew then that someday I would join them and have a chance to fish Beaver Creek with the famous plug. As time would have it, the production of the fishing plug, made by the Wright & McGill Company in Denver, Colorado, would be discontinued. I owned one Miracle Minnow that was colored green and gold that was my
dad’s favorite plug. Unfortunately, a trophy bass broke the water and swam away with my favorite fishing lure. It was now a challenge to find another Miracle Minnow to use in Beaver Creek. My pursuit led me to a new friend, Don Bodinar, who was a collector of Miracle Minnows. I was able to learn his procedure to find the rare plug and I continued to investigate. By looking through old tackle boxes at yard sales and flea markets, I was able to find a few Miracle Minnows. Don also introduced me to the procedure of finding them on the Internet. There were a variety of these plugs manufactured, for example; sinkers and floaters. Also, they come in a variety of colors and some of them are even jointed. My favorite is the gold and green sinker. That is the one that my dad and his friends liked the best. After finding a few of these old lures, last month I decided to return to one of my favorite fishing spots along Beaver Creek, with my Miracle Minnow tied on. I was able to hook into a smallmouth bass that gave me a thrill. After speaking Turn To Miracle Page 9
October 2014
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Curt Grimm
Fishing lure collector Don Bodinar caught this smallmouth bass in Little Beaver Creek with a Miracle Minnow lure.
October 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Miracle From Page 8
with Don again about these old lures, I think he doubted my success rate with my favorite lure, so I invited him to take a little fishing trip with me — yes to Beaver Creek. It was an enjoyable trip for both Don and I. His retrieval technique of the plug offered positive results — a creek smallmouth bass — on his first cast. Yes, there was a surprised look on Don’s face. We are now making plans to explore other parts of the creek and see if we can get the same positive results. The history of the Miracle Minnow is hard to obtain. We are in the process of trying to determine when this plug was discontinued in production. We’re also curious about the other states/areas that have used this plug. It seems that certain parts of the country prefer different colors and different styles. This was determined by the quantity and location of certain plugs that have been offered for sale on the Internet. The experiment we have scheduled for next spring and summer is to try this lure in different creeks around the Tri-State area. We also plan to use it in a variety of lakes and farm ponds. It would not surprise us to find that the Miracle Minnow
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Field reports from ODNR Division of Wildlife Officers 10-1-14
Central Ohio – Wildlife District One State Wildlife Officers Patrick Muldovan, assigned to Licking County, and Brad Kiger, assigned to Franklin County, worked Deer Creek Wildlife Area on the opening day of dove hunting season. Several of the fields were packed, but one field in particular had a large number of hunters. Officers Muldovan and Kiger watched the field and after a short time a nongame bird was shot. The officers contacted the hunter and retrieved the dead bird. After Officer Muldovan finished writing that summons, a second nongame bird was killed. That hunter was then contacted. Both hunters were issued summons for taking a nongame bird and had to appear in front of a judge. A total of 130 hunters were checked out of Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Gary Grimm one field and three additional citations The author’s favorite green and gold Miracle were issued for unplugged guns. Those Minnow lure is a sinking variety. hunters were each issued a summons for having a shotgun capable of holding more than three shells and had to pay is still a favorite plug used in a variety of $110 in fines and court costs. fishing waters. I am sure that it’s use in Northwest Ohio – Wildlife District Two Beaver Creek is still alive and doing State Wildlife Officer Reid Van Cleve, well.
Diane’s Crockpot Chicken with Chipped Venison
assigned to Ottawa County, was checking waterfowl hunters on Sept. 1, the opening day of early goose season. At 6:41 a.m., 22 minutes before legal shooting time, Officer Van Cleve observed two hunters shooting ducks. Officer Van Cleve was surprised because duck season was closed. Officer Van Cleve made contact with the hunters and asked what they had shot. One of the hunters stated they had shot two blue-winged teal. Officer Van Cleve explained to the hunters that teal season was closed and legal shooting time began at sunrise, not 30 minutes before sunrise. Officer Van Cleve also explained that wood duck season was closed. The hunters had harvested one blue-winged teal and one hen wood duck. The hunters stated that they had only been hunting waterfowl for two years and did not have much experience in the sport. Officer Van Cleve explained to them that it takes time to learn to identify waterfowl in flight, and it is always a good idea to start waterfowl hunting with someone with experience. Van Cleve also Turn To Report Page 13
Over 30 Years of Doing Things Right
• Prep Time: 15 min. • Cook Time: 4 hrs. 30 min. • Ready In: 9 hrs. 30 min. • Yields: 6
6 chicken breasts 1 small onion 2 tbs. olive oil 1 clove garlic 1 can cream of mushroom soup 1 8 oz. package sliced mushrooms 1 cup white wine 1 1 lb. package chipped venison 2 tsp. Venison Barbeque Seasoning and Rub Sportsman's Table Item #2688 1 tsp. dried thyme 1 tsp. sage 1/4 tsp. pepper
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Directions:
Saute chicken with onion and garlic in olive oil. Add Sportsman's Table Venison Barbeque Seasoning and Rub, thyme, sage and pepper. Cook only two min. on each side until chicken appears white. Place seasoned chicken in crockpot and pour in cream of mushroom soup, wine and chipped venison. Cook on high for 4-5 hours, or low for 7-8 hours.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
WV’s Deer, Bear Archery Seasons Open
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — West Virginia’s 2014 archery seasons for white-tailed deer, black bear and wild boar opened September 27. The bear archery season is a split season (Sept. 27-Nov. 22 and Dec. 8-Dec. 31). In addition to a base license, bear hunters must purchase a Bear Damage Stamp (Class DS) to hunt bear in West Virginia. Two bear may be taken per year, provided at least one bear is taken in Boone, Fayette, Kanawha, Logan, McDowell, Mingo, Nicholas, Raleigh or Wyoming counties. Other than the Class DS stamp, no additional stamps are needed to harvest the second bear during the archery season except for nonresidents hunting on the National Forest (Class I). Hunters also are reminded they need stamps if they wish to harvest additional deer during the archery season. One or two additional archery deer, depending on the county, may be taken with Class RB (Resident) or Class RRB (Nonresident) stamps (one per stamp). Consult the 2014-2015 West Virginia Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary for details. Hunters should also note in the
regulations that, in 31 counties or portions thereof, they must take an antlerless archery deer prior to harvesting a second antlered deer. Additional archery stamps must be purchased prior to the start of the deer archery season. The deer daily bag limit for deer increased last year, allowing an individual to take up to two deer in one day during any season. The first deer does not have to be legally checked at an official game check station prior to harvesting the second deer in the same day. However, only one antlered deer may be taken in the same day during any season. The daily bag limit for bear remains one bear per day. In all counties, legal resident landowners hunting on their own property and holders of Class DT (Life-threatening Conditions) licenses may use Class RB/RRB stamp privileges without stamp purchase. For complete information, hunters should consult the 2014-2015 West Virginia Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary available at any WVDNR office, license agents, or by visiting the WVDNR website at www.wvdnr.gov.
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of WVDNR
Archery seasons for deer, bear and boar opened September 27 in West Virginia.
October 2014
Cable Network Wants YOU!
NEW YORK, NY — Storyville Entertainment Inc, a production company located in New York is offering a ‘Casting Call’ for a major television network. They are looking for a ‘Backwoods Philosopher’. Could that be you? See the request below: CASTING CALL: Top Cable Network seeks America’s Backwoods Philosophers — modern day Frontiersmen, in the spirit of Henry Thoreau, who survive in the wild, off the land, and embody their own unique philosophy of life. These renegades live by their own code, not dependent on modern society. Are you one of these Backwoods Philosophers? Do you live off the grid and by your own rules? Do you have a strong philosophy of life that defines who you are and how you live? Do you have a larger than life personality and endless pearls of wisdom to share? Then we want you! If you consider yourself a Backwood’s Philosopher or know someone like this, please contact our team: email us at: svproductioncasting@gmail.com or call at (646) 6633531 and mention “BACKWOODS CASTING”.
Fall Reminder: Game Lands are Hunting Grounds First
HARRISBURG, PA — With the calendar now flipped to October, and the fall hunting seasons all to open soon, restrictions are back in place on all tracts comprising Pennsylvania’s 1.4 millionacre state game lands system. Unlike state or county parks, or even state or national forests, the primary purpose of Pennsylvania’s state game lands is to provide habitat for wildlife, and hunting and trapping opportunities for Pennsylvanians. While many secondary recreational uses of game lands unrelated to hunting or trapping traditionally have been permitted during summer months, such uses are tightly restricted beginning the last Saturday in September, which typically occurs just before the start of the statewide archery deer season. The restrictions remain in place through the third Saturday in January, a date that ensures the game lands system adequately serves hunters through the close of the flintlock muzzleloader deer season. During the restricted period, the recreational riding of horses and bicycles on
game lands is permitted only on Sundays. On Mondays through Saturdays, only riding related to active hunting and trapping is permitted on game lands. Recreational riding of horses and bicycles on game lands is permitted only on marked, designated trails. Designated trails that are approved for snowmobile use don’t open to snowmobiles until the third Sunday of January, and they close April 1. Off-road vehicles including ATVs are not permitted anywhere or at any time on game lands. Hiking is permitted on game lands throughout the year, however, hikers are advised that game lands are hunting grounds where hunting activity is likely to be occurring. Additionally, during the month surrounding the deer and bear firearms seasons — a period from Nov. 15 to Dec. 15 each year – hikers, as well as all other secondary users of game lands, must wear a minimum of 250 square inches of fluorescent orange material on the head, chest and back combined, and the orange material must be visible from 360 degrees.
October 2014
Inaugural Paddlefest a Success
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
PARKERSBURG, WV — Paddleboards, kayaks and canoes filled with about 70 rowers participated in the inaugural Parkersburg Paddlefest in mid-September on the Ohio River in Parkersburg. “We had about 60 boats launch and 70 people registered,” said John Wiseman, director of the event and co-owner of Lapping the Couch Adventures. “Everything went very well.” All of the watercraft launched from Point Park at 8 a.m., paddled down to Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park and back, with the event having finished by noon. “It was rough and windy going out, but coming back, it was pretty easy,” said paddler Nancy Miller, of Belpre. Miller, who works at Woodcraft, used the mahogany boat she made herself in 2012 for the event. “I think this is a great idea and I wanted to be a part of it from the beginning,” Miller said. “I want to support the paddlers and help this festival grow.” To ensure the safety of all involved, the U.S. Coast Guard gave permission for the closing of the Ohio River to motorized traffic for the event, which Miller said was helpful. Wiseman said the event was well supported, with assistance and involvement from local, state and federal agencies and organizations. — JOLENE CRAIG
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Joene Craig
More than 70 people participated in the inaugural Parkersburg Paddlefest on September 14 on the Ohio River between Point Park and Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park; near Parkersburg, WV.
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Joene Craig
Paddlers come in from participating in the inaugural Parkersburg Paddlefest on September 14 on the Ohio River in Parkersburg, WV.
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PRODUCT REVIEW
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Bushnell’s First Strike Reflex Red Dot OV Outdoor Times
To test the accuracy of Smith & Wesson’s M&P22 .22LR handgun, a suitable optic was needed. The optic had to be small, lightweight and able to withstand the rigors of a semiauto handgun. The By Bill Waugaman optic chosen to fit these requirements was Bushnell’s First Strike Reflex Red Dot (Model 73005). Bushnell’s First Strike is definitely small. It’s less than 2” long, only 1 1/4” wide, under 1 1/2” tall, and weighs a mere 2.1 ounces (including the protective hood and CR2032 lithium battery). It is designed to mount on any weaver or picatinny rail without any blocks or brackets, unless a riser is necessary for a
particular application. Since the First Strike is shockproof, mounting it on the slide of the M&P22 would not be a problem. The First Strike’s red dot is 5 MOA making it easy to pick up the dot in the lens and not so large as to hinder shooting at shorter distances. Adjusting the dot to move the point of impact is easily done with a hex wrench that is included with the First Strike; the wrench is flat on one end for adjusting the windage and elevation, and a hex head on the other end for battery compartment access. Even though the hash mark indicators are at 6 MOA, the actual adjustment is ‘non-clicking’ giving you complete flexibility to fine tune the point of impact. The total adjustment range is 240 MOA. As for the optics, the 1X lens (no magnification) of the First Strike is slightly
under 1” wide by 3/4” tall. The lens is multi-coated to minimize or eliminate glare and reflection. Since the lens is single layer, it can’t fog up on the inside. The First Strike is also waterproof to prevent moisture from getting inside to the components. One of the most interesting features of the First Strike Reflex Red Dot is the lack of an on-off switch. Power from the battery to the LED is controlled by a photocell on the front. When the protective hood is installed blocking light to the photocell, power is almost completely cut off to the LED. When the hood is removed, the amount of light picked up by the photocell automatically regulates the brightness of the LED. In bright light, the red dot is brighter making it easy to see; in low light, the red dot becomes dimmer so the view through the lens is not obscured. The low power consumption design gives the First Strike an extended battery life that is measured in days, not hours. Bushnell estimates a fresh new battery (240mAh) will continuously power the LED for just under 2 days in bright light, 25 days in room light, and nearly 15 months with the photocell covered. While my original purpose for the
October 2014
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of Bushnell
Front view of the Bushnell First Strike optic.
First Strike was to evaluate the accuracy of a Smith & Wesson M&P22 handgun, the variety of uses for this reflex red dot became obvious. It is well suited for mounting on an AR-platform rifle or tactical shotgun; it will also stand up to the recoil on hunting shotguns when used with turkey, waterfowl or rifled slug loads. Turn To Review Page 13
Gun Owners Oppose Cleveland’s New Proposed Regulations
COLUMBUS, OH — The city of Cleveland has proposed 27 new weapons laws despite two Ohio Supreme Court rulings that prohibit cities from regulating firearms. Collectively, the proposed ordinances would establish a gun-offender registry that is unlikely to deter crime or provide law enforcement with useful information. Ohio gun owners are understandably concerned with Cleveland’s proposals. For over a decade, organizations such as Buckeye Firearms Association have worked tirelessly to ensure that Ohio has one clear set of firearm laws that are uniform throughout the state. “Cleveland has a long history of ignoring the rights of Ohio citizens when it comes to firearms,” said Ken Hanson, legal counsel for Buckeye Firearms Association. “And they have a history of ignoring state law. “By passing HB347, which became law in 2007, the Ohio General Assembly clearly sent a message to municipalities that they must abide by state law and
cannot make up their own laws to regulate firearms.” Here is the relevant section from Ohio R.C 9.68: The individual right to keep and bear arms, being a fundamental individual right that predates the United States Constitution and Ohio Constitution, and being a constitutionally protected right in every part of Ohio, the general assembly finds the need to provide uniform laws throughout the state regulating the ownership, possession, purchase, other acquisition, transport, storage, carrying, sale, or other transfer of firearms, their components, and their ammunition. Except as specifically provided by the United States Constitution, Ohio Constitution, state law, or federal law, a person, without further license, permission, restriction, delay, or process, may own, possess, purchase, sell, transfer, transport, store, or keep any firearm, part of a firearm, its components, and its ammunition. For more information visit www.BuckeyeFirearms.org.
October 2014
Review From Page 12
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
The First Strike comes with an allen wrench for mounting, the hex wrench for battery compartment access and sight adjustment, a cleaning cloth, instruction manual, protective cover, battery (already installed) and a one-year warranty. The MSRP for Bushnell’s First Strike Reflex Red Dot is $208.95. For more information, check out the Bushnell website at: www.bushnell.com.
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of Bushnell
As light intensity fades, the dot automatically dims.
U.S. Forest Service Releases 2015 Dates for Fee-Free Days
WASHINGTON, DC — The U.S. Forest Service will waive fees at most of its day-use recreation sites several times in 2015, beginning with Jan. 19, in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. “These fee-free days are our way of thanking our millions of visitors but also to encourage more people to visit these great public lands,” said U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell. No fees are charged at any time on 98 percent of national forests and grasslands, and approximately two-thirds of developed recreation sites in national forests and grasslands can be used for free. Check with your local forest or grassland or on Recreation.gov to see if your destination charges a fee. Fees are used to help cover the cost of safe, clean facilities. Use the Forest Service map to find a national forest or grassland near you. The 2015 scheduled fee-free days observed by the Forest Service are: • Jan. 19: the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day • Feb. 16: Presidents Day • June 13: National Get Outdoors Day
• Sept. 26: National Public Lands Day • Nov. 11: Veteran’s Day Agency units plan their own events. Contact your local forest or grassland for more information. The last fee-free period for 2014 is Nov. 8-11 in honor of Veteran’s Day. Encouraging use of public lands supports the goals of President Obama’s America’s Great Outdoors, an effort with a premise that the protection of the nation’s natural heritage is a non-partisan objective shared by all Americans. America’s Great Outdoors turns to communities for local, grassroots conservation initiatives and seeks to rework inefficient policies and to make the federal government a better partner with states, tribes and local communities. America’s public lands provide health benefits visitors. America’s national forests and grasslands managed by the Forest Service offer more than 150,000 miles of trails, which include hiking, biking, equestrian and motorized trails, and more than 10,000 developed recreation sites. Visitors can choose a wide variety of recreational activities using more than 57,000 miles of streams, 122 alpine ski areas, 338,000 heritage sites, 9,100 miles of National Scenic Bywmore.
Report From Page 9
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suggested that the men always read the regulations before hunting since seasons can change from year to year. The men were issued a citation for hunting ducks during the closed season. During the 2014 spring turkey season, two individuals in Paulding County were hunting turkeys over bait. The two hunters had set up a ground blind next to a feeder. These violations would likely have gone unnoticed if not for an anonymous call reporting them. State Wildlife Officer Mike Ohlrich hiked into the woods one morning where the feeder was located and waited for the suspects to show up. Shortly before light, two turkey hunters came walking quietly through the woods. Several birds were gobbling on the roost near the location. The hunters could be heard rustling around as they stepped into their ground blind and began setting up their equipment. Just a few minutes later, one of the hunters stepped back out of the blind carrying a bag of cracked corn. He walked over to the feeder and dumped the entire bag into it. Both men were charged for their violations in the Pauld-
ing Municipal Court. Northeast Ohio – Wildlife District Three State Wildlife Officer Aaron Brown, assigned to Wayne County, received a call from two police departments in reference to an individual who killed a goose during the closed season. The witness gave a vehicle description to the police, who later made a traffic stop on the vehicle. Officer Brown arrived on scene and a suspect was determined through the witness statement. The results of the investigation revealed that the suspect had shot the goose from his vehicle using a high-powered air rifle. The man was convicted in court and ordered to pay $388 in fines and costs for taking the goose in a closed season. The air rifle was forfeited to the ODNR Division of Wildlife. While working an enforcement project in Medina County, State Wildlife Officer Tom Frank, assigned to Mahoning County, observed an individual snag a trout, place it on his stringer and continue fishing. The suspect was contacted and issued a summons for the offense. The fish was also seized. The man was convicted in court and paid $100 in fines and costs.
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Tim Baker spring gobbler Mathews bow
For our contests & Nikon Photo Showcase
Chad Staats 12pt., bow West Virginia
email to: ohvod@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com mail to: Photo Showcase 210 East Fourth St. East Liverpool, OH 43920
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October 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Fishing With Darl Black
and early summer and smallmouth bass in the fall); Allegheny River and French Creek (smallmouth bass in the spring/summer/fall). Black spends a lot of time on the local waters. He knows them well. He’s also invited many national fishing gurus and writers to the region as part of his annual PA Crappie Camp. Those events have helped garner national attention for Pymatuning; which was recently named to FishHound’s Top 50 Crappie Lakes in the nation (22nd) and Fish and Game Magazine’s Top 10 Best FamilyFriendly Fishing Lakes (2012). “As an outdoor writer/photographer I have had the opportunity to fish many different lakes and rivers across the U.S. Those experiences have enlightened me to the fact that fisheries in northwest PA are among the best in the U.S. for select species,” said Black. “Pymatuning is an incredible fishery for big northern crappies and bluegills, as is Conneaut Lake. Conneaut Lake has the potential of producing a new state record smallmouth bass. French Creek is a great summer wading stream for bass. And the Al-
ANNAPOLIS, MD. — In a move that’s expected to benefit recreational boaters, on October 22, the US Coast Guard will drop the current life jacket type code scheme — Type I, II, III, IV and V — that has been used for years to label and differentiate the types of life jackets and their specific use. Chris Edmonston, BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety President and Chairman of the National Safe Boating Council, said, “The boating safety community believes this move by the Coast Guard will help lead the way toward more comfortable and innovative life jacket designs, help boaters stay on the right side of the law, lower costs, and save lives.” Explains Edmonston, “This is positive news is that we will no longer see a Type I, II, III, IV or V label on a new life jacket label after Oct. 22. This type coding was unique to the United States, tended to confuse boaters, limited choice and increased the cost of life jackets.” He says removing the type coding is a
first step towards the adoption of new standards that will eventually simplify life jacket requirements for recreational boaters. “This move is expected to lead to the introduction of new life jacket designs, especially those made in other countries as US standards will be more ‘harmonized,’ initially Canada and eventually the European Union,” said Edmonston. “Along with a wider variety, aligning our standards with those to our neighbor to the north and across the Atlantic will help reduce prices as manufacturers won’t have to make products unique to the US market.” However, Edmonston cautions boaters must still abide by the current standards when using older life jackets marked with the Type I-V labeling, as they will remain legal for use. “We must continue to have a properly fitted life jacket for all aboard, and as always, you’ll need to follow the label’s instructions regardless of when it was made. Simply put, if you follow the label, you’re following the
OV Outdoor Times
Taking advantage of his knowledge of some great fishing waters in his back yard, Darl Black is now offering his know-how to others. This month Black, of Cochranton, PA, began his By Larry Claypool new fishing guide Editor service — Fishing with Darl Black dba Blackwolfe Communications, LLC. Black is well-known for his fishing knowledge in western Pennsylvania. He’s been a full-time outdoor writer and photographer since 1990. Many of credits include national publications. Black also publishes the popular biweekly ‘NW PA Fishing Report’ on behalf of the PA Great Lakes Region tourism bureau. The species Black’s guide service will focus on will be smallmouth bass and crappies/panfish. The primary waters will be Pymatuning Lake (crappies and bluegills); Conneaut Lake (crappies/bluegills/white bass in late spring
Life Jacket Type Code Labels Go Away
Ohio Valley Outdoors - Photo courtesy of Blackwolfe Communications
Noted fisherman/writer Darl Black, of Cochranton, PA recently began his new fishing guide service: Fishing with Darl Black.
legheny River holds its own for smallmouth bass when compared to any northeastern U.S. river.” Black said running a guide service will enable him to get on the water more often. Many experienced fisherman turn to tournament fishing, but that’s never interested Black. He wants to share his
knowledge with others, including young people. So offering a guide service will provide that, and help pay some bills. “I want to get more people fishing, and this offers an exciting opportunity,” said Black. Turn To Fishing Page 15
law.” A full list of the current life jacket types and descriptions can be found at BoatUS.org/life-jackets, and any update on new life jacket types and styles will be posted here when available. In additional effort to help change the mindset of what a life jacket must look like, The BoatUS Foundation, the Personal Floatation Device Manufacturers Association (PFDMA) and the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), recently kicked off a “Innovations in Life Jacket Design Competition” to seek out the newest technologies and design ideas. Running through April 15, 2015, the contest seeks entries from groups or individuals, including collegiate design programs, armchair inventors or even boat and fishing clubs. Ohio Valley Outdoors - Photo courtesy of BoatUS Entries may be as simple as hand-drawn The U.S. Coast Guard is dropping the curtheoretical designs to working proto- rent life jacket type code scheme — Type I, II, types and will be judged based on four III, IV and V — that has been used for years. criteria: wearability, reliability, cost and innovation. For more, go to Boacational outreach directly to boaters and tUS.org/design. anglers with the aim of reducing acciAbout the BoatUS Foundation: The BoatUS Foundation for Boating dents and fatalities, increasing stewardSafety and Clean Water is a national ship of America’s waterways and leader promoting safe, clean and respon- keeping boating safe for all. A range of sible boating. Funded primarily by do- boating safety courses — including 33 nations from over half-million members free state courses — can be found at of BoatUS, it provides innovative edu- BoatUS.org/courses.
October 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
For those looking to catch big smallmouth bass, Black says he can possibly add that to your ‘bucket list’. “For smallmouth bass, that’s more instructional. In Conneaut, particularly I intend to look for big smallmouth. You’re not going to get the numbers, but you can catch a sixpounder. That’s what I’m looking for. And I think there’s a possible state record there,” added Black. Depending on where a client would like to fish, and for what species, Black can take 1-2 persons to fish. For crappie/panfish trips it’s one or two people. For smallmouth trips it’s a single client, except for smallmouth lunker hunts on Conneaut Lake where he’ll take a parent and youth under age 16, “in an attempt to have a youth catch a big smallmouth”. “Bass fishing trips are more educationally oriented; bass trips are catchphoto-release with barbless hooks. Crappie/panfish trips are catch-consume oriented,” said Black. Client fishing rates are $200 for 1/2 day trips (five hours). The cost includes everything needed to fish (rods, reels, lures, live bait, use of PFDs, cold nonalcoholic beverages and light snacks). Black does not clean fish (crappies/panfish/walleyes) but can suggest a
local bait shop that offers that service. Black said he fishes with the best equipment and tackle available. His river boat is a 17’ Roughneck (40/30 jet) and his crappie boat is a new PolarKraft Classic deep aluminum V (20hp outboard). For questions or to schedule a trip, contact Black at 814-425-8011 (home) or 814-720-1407 (cell) or email him at: darlblack@windstream.net. His website: www.blackwolfecommunications.com. See him on Facebook at: Fishing with Darl Black. Notes: Black’s articles most recently have appeared in the following publications; Bassmaster; Bass Times; North American Fisherman; In-Fisherman Bass Guide; Pennsylvania Angler; Fur-FishGame; Bass Angler Magazine; Crappie Now web-magazine; and Havalon Post website. In the last three decades, he’s been published in over 40 different periodicals. As for the equipment he uses; bass fishing clients will have the opportunity to use G. Loomis bass technique rods; crappie clients will use B’n’M Rods. Black also uses reels made by Shimano and Lew’s, all spooled with Gamma Line, a well-known PA product.
WASHINGTON, DC — The U.S. Forest Service recently released information to clarify the agency’s intentions regarding a proposed directive for commercial photography and filmmaking in congressionally designated wilderness areas. “The US Forest Service remains committed to the First Amendment,” said U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell. “To be clear, provisions in the draft directive do not apply to news gathering or activities.” The proposal does not apply to news coverage, gathering information for a news program or documentary. However, if a project falls outside of that scope and the filming is intended to be on wilderness land, additional criteria are applied to protect wilderness values. In that case, a permit must be applied for and granted before any photography is permitted.
The agency issued a Federal Register notice on September 4 seeking public comment on a proposal to formally establish consistent criteria for evaluating requests for commercial filming in wilderness areas as it has on national forests and grasslands. The proposed directive on commercial filming in wilderness has been in place for more than four years and is a good faith effort to ensure the fullest protection of America’s wild places. “The fact is, the directive pertains to commercial photography and filming only — if you’re there to gather news or take recreational photographs, no permit would be required. We take your First Amendment rights very seriously,” said Tidwell. “We’re looking forward to talking with journalists and concerned citizens to help allay some of the concerns we’ve been hearing and clarify what’s covered by this proposed directive.” Congressionally designated wilderness areas are protected by the Wilderness Act of 1964 and must remain in
Fishing From Page 14
Clarification Offered for Photos Taken in National Parks
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SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV – Outdoors enthusiasts now can learn the latest information about hunting, fishing and wildlife in West Virginia by way of Facebook and Twitter. The pages, hosted by the Wildlife Resources Section of the Division of Natural Resources (DNR), were launched to coincide with West Virginia’s Celebration of National Hunting and Fishing Day, scheduled for Sept. 27-28 at Stonewall Resort State Park near Weston in Lewis County. “West Virginia residents and visitors can look forward to the type of information exchange and interaction that modern social media provide,” said Division of Natural Resources Director Frank Jezioro. “Information about our state’s outdoor recreational opportunities will be available on a timely basis, straight from our trained, professional wildlife biologists and managers.” Followers of the new Facebook and Twitter accounts can expect postings about hunting seasons (dates, regula-
tions, etc.); wildlife profiles with interesting facts; news articles pertaining to hunting, fishing and wildlife watching opportunities; current news releases; recipes for wild game; and hunting and fishing tips with safety reminders. The pages also will be a forum for followers to share their latest catch or kill in the “DNR Trophy Room.” “Because this is social media, the communication won’t be all one-way,” said Curtis Taylor, chief of the DNR Wildlife Resources Section. “We encourage outdoors sportsmen and women to send us their photos for the official ‘DNR Trophy Room.’ Photos can be posted to our Facebook wall, or by using the hashtags #wvhunt and/or #wvfish on Twitter. At the end of each month, we’ll post an album on the Facebook page with the best catches and kills of the month.” “This is the perfect time to sign up for DNR Wildlife’s social media pages, as the fall hunting seasons are starting and there is a lot of interest in getting the most accurate, fastest information available,” said Jezioro. “This will allow everyone to have direct access to that information using popular communications methods.”
their natural condition. This is achieved in part by prohibiting certain commercial enterprises, and the agency is responsible for ensuring its policies adhere to that standard. The public originally had until Nov. 3, 2014, to comment on the proposal. Based on the high level of interest, the agency will extend the public comment period to Dec. 3, 2014. The proposal does not change the rules for visitors or recreational photographers. Generally, professional and am-
ateur photographers will not need a permit unless they use models, actors or props; work in areas where the public is generally not allowed; or cause additional administrative costs. Currently, commercial filming permit fees range around $30 per day for a group up to three people. A large Hollywood production with 70 or more people might be as much as $800. The $1,500 commercial permit fee cited in many publications is erroneous, and refers to a different proposed directive.
WVDNR Goes Social With Facebook, Twitter
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Parker Bows Stingray Strikes Probable World Record Stingray
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MINT SPRING, VA. — Rightfully named, in this case, a bowhunting crossbow manufactured by Parker Bows has been used to potentially claim a world record for a stingray. Parker Bows, a manufacturer of compound bows, crossbows and crossbow accessories teamed up with Crossbow Magazine’s Todd Bromley and Gene Schang for a bowfishing excursion. Using Parker’s StingRay bowfishing crossbow, Gene Schang landed a probable world record stingray with a crossbow on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Todd Bromley, Publisher for Crossbow Magazine and Gene Schang, Field Gear Editor for Crossbow Magazine went bowfishing off the eastern shore of Maryland with a Parker StingRay Crossbow and came away with a probable world record 96.5 lb stingray. Schang was the triggerman when the giant stingray was sighted about 15 feet from
the boat in 2 feet of water. “The Parker Stingray performed flawlessly and the grapple point arrow firmly held the large stingray, despite the significant strain on the equipment,” said Schang. The giant stingray was gaffed and hauled in to the boat where Schang and Bromley looked on with excitement at what they had accomplished. “I am not into record books as much as I am into the sport of hunting and fishing,” said Schang. “If it does become certified as a state or world record, I would be happy just knowing that maybe I exposed many people to the world of bowfishing with crossbows. A very exciting sport that is right at the front doors of most people in this country.” The full story of the bowfishing trip with the Parker Stingray crossbow is featured in the October issue of Crossbow Magazine.
October 2014
Ohio Valley Outdoors - Photo courtesy of Parker Bows
Crossbow Magazine’s Todd Bromley and Gene Schang pose with a 96.5lb stingray they struck while bowfishing on the eastern shore of Maryland. It may be a world record catch with a crossbow.
October 2014
TIm Billiter 9 pt. Carroll County, OH
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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PHOTO SHOWCASE SPONSORED BY
Eva Stefl, age 82 1st walleye Lake Erie
Alexis Johnson, age 12, Brad Johnson 1st black bear, 140 lbs. Gowganda Can Lake Lodge
Denny Fetty, OVO Pro Staff Joe Blazer Columbiana County, OH
Tyler Souder 8-pt., 17 1/16" spread Columbiana County, OH
Send Us Your Photos
Jayden Emerick, age 11 1st deer, crossbow Mahoning County, OH
Denny Fetty, OVO Pro Staff 8-pt., crossbow Columbiana County, OH
William Hinchliffe 13-lbs. turkey Columbiana 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
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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Ohio Valley Outdoors
PETA Announces “Aquatic Angel” Drones to Stalk Anglers
Editor’s Note: In an effort to quell media attention for this anti-hunting group we have decided to replace the last word of this organization’s name with an _ (underscore). They rely on gorilla tactics to gain attention for their cause. We’re not interested in giving them more free advertising across our pages or website, so we’re leaving off their letter A. And we’ll give them an ‘F’ for effort in trying to bully outdoors people. That’s not being ‘ethical’!
By the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance According to a recent press release from the People for the Ethical Treatment of ______ (PET_), anglers will now find themselves being stalked by anti-hunters thanks to PET_’s new “Aquatic Angel” drones.
October 2014
The “Aquatic Angel” is the newest tool from the anti-hunting group, following the release of their “Air Angel” drones released in the spring of 2013 to stalk hunters in the field. Described as a “submersible technology,” PET_ plans to use the drones to stalk fishermen and “combat anglers who fish in restricted areas, catch protected species, and or chum for sharks illegally.” According to PET_, the group is currently recruiting members and supporters to field-test the new drones in all bodies of water. PET_ plans to use the new drones on National Hunting and Fishing Day this Saturday, or what they are referring to as “Fish Amnesty Day.” The release boasts a “beware to hunters and anglers: PET_ could be watching.”
“The announcement of these drones comes as no surprise as PET_ will stop at nothing to gain headlines,” said Nick Pinizzotto, USSA president and CEO. “The anti-hunting community continues to harass, threaten, and interfere with hunters across the country, which only further distances them from what mainstream America considers rational.” The hunting community has seen an increase in backlash from anti-hunters in recent years thanks in part to new technology such as drones and social media. Hunters are now finding themselves the victims of cyber-bullying and are seeing an increase in interferences while hunting and fishing. Recognizing these problems, USSA joined forces with sportsmen, conservation organizations and outdoor personalities to initiate the Hunter Advancement Task Force to combat the growing threat to our outdoor heritage. “The Hunter Advancement Task Force has been established to help stop these senseless attacks,” said Pinizzotto.
Ohio Valley Outdoors - Photo by Larry Claypool
PETA plans to use drones to stalk fishermen and “combat anglers who fish in restricted areas, catch protected species, and or chum for sharks illegally.”
October 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
19
A Successful Elk Trip
Ohio Valley Outdoors - Photos by Larry Claypool
For the second year in a row I traveled to northcentral Pennsylvania to view and photograph majestic elk during the rut season — late September. My guides for the trip, again, were brothers Curt and Gary Grimm. It was a successful trip. We did not see the numbers of elk we’d seen the year before, but we got very close to three different nice-size bulls and several cows — about 40 elk total. The bulls were bugling throughout the day as we, and other sightseers and photographers, tried to track them down and hone in on their location. By Saturday afternoon, Sept. 27, there were at least 200 vehicles in the area, mostly around the public look-out parking lots provided near Winslow Hill and Dewey Road, just outside the small town of Benezette, PA. We also took time to photograph some cool spider webs and a small bee hive, which is a new fascination for Curt Grimm (shown). — Larry Claypool