Ohio Valley Outdoor Times 11-2014

TREESTAND SAFETY TIPS - P.10

American Fur Trappers Story inside page 15

The Cackle and the Blast OV Outdoor Times

Frosty November mornings aren’t just for deer hunters. One of my best memories is of opening day of pheasant season in Pennsylvania when I was 14. My dad, sister, and I hunted the local Game Lands By Ralph Scherder and hit into birds Hunting Editor right off the bat but had no shot opportunities.

McDougal and Tiffy, our two Brittany spaniels at the time, were a little erratic from a long, cooped up summer of doing nothing. Now that they had the opportunity to run free and stretch their legs, they seemed hell-bent on testing limitations – and our patience. After an hour or two, they settled into a groove and actually started hunting.

McDougal hit bird scent at the edge of an old apple orchard and took off in a semicircle on the trail of a running bird. My dad, sister, and I waited and watched as the dogs disappeared in thick brush. A few minutes later we heard the cackle of a ringneck taking flight.

I don’t remember shouldering the gun.

All I remember is watching the bird break out of the trees in full flight, gaining speed going downhill, a perfect 20-

EE!

Outdoor Times

November 2014

yard crossing shot. All I remember is the bird, the long mottled tail feathers, the golden shimmer of morning light on its breast, the white ring around its neck, the iridescent green-blue head. I shot. The bird folded and tumbled to the ground. I ejected the empty shell out of my dad’s old Charles Daly over/under 20 gauge and replaced it with a new one, and then went to retrieve my first pheasant.

I’ll never forget that first ringneck, the surprising weight of its warm body in my cold hands that frosty morning. I’ll never forget how McDougal stuck his snout deep under the bird’s wing and deeply inhaled its scent, perhaps knowing that he’d helped in its demise, and that was good. Our dogs have always been bloodthirsty killers, and if you were to ask them – and they could answer back – I’d bet they’d all agree that the only good bird was a dead bird. Their desire to hunt has led to many great days afield for my family.

McDougal and I had another great experience a couple years later. One afternoon, as I stepped off the school bus at the end of our driveway, I was greeted by the cluck of a ringneck pheasant in the field behind our house. I told Dad that we should try for it. He said he had to work, but I could take McDougal and go after the bird, so I did.

McDougal dove into a brush pile and quickly got the bird in the air. It was a long shot, and at first I thought I missed.

The brush was taller than I was, which Turn To Cackle Page 4

Ohio Valley

FR

Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Ralph Scherder

The author with his Brittany spaniel, Cherry, and a nice PA pheasant.

INSIDE THIS MONTH 15 American Fur

Clarion River (PA) Fishing Jeff Knapp

6 Great Start to Ohio 7

Michael Gordon

16 PA Fall Turkey Trapper

Bill Hall, Jr.

Opener

PAGC

19 Gallia County Forcast

Fall Turkey Season Opens in PA

8 Take the Boat 14

Hunting Death Remains Unsolved Larry Claypool

BoatUS

Winterizing Quiz With Fugitive Captured Hunting Seasons Restored PAGC

13 Hip Waders and a Modern Day Trapper OUTDOOR CALENDAR

Indoor Pistol Shooting - Nov. 14, 21, 28, Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26 (every Fri. until Apr. 25) 7-10 p.m. at Columbiana County Fish & Game Association, 45716 Middle Beaver Rd, Lisbon, OH. Also Indoor .22/Air Rifle Shooting every Tues. 6-9 p.m. All open to public. Website: www.columbianacountyfishand game.com Fall Turkey Shoots - Nov. 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 - Nov. 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 330-3484020.

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. Call Bill at 330-755-2077.

Ohio Valley

Ohio Shooting Death Nears Mark

As Ohio’s deer gun season opener approaches (December 1), many hunters are hopeful for a successful season. A nicelyracked buck to brag about would be a bonus. Otherwise putting meat in the freezer By Larry Claypool is the goal. For one hunt- Editor ing family, and a local law enforcement agency, there is hope that a tragic, unsolved hunting accident from a year ago will find closure. See story on Page 19.

It’s been nearly a year since 45-year-old Ohio hunter Larry Bradley was shot, apparently by accident, while he sat in his treestand on opening day last season in Gallia County (OH). As tragic as the death was no one, to date, has claimed responsibility for the shooting death. For Gallia County Sheriff Joe Browning this is troubling. And obviously Bradley’s family would like to have answers from someone about what happened that day.

Sheriff Browning called me recently and asked if we could help his office re-inform the public about this case, hoping that someone will step forward and claim responsibility, for what officials believe was an accidental shooting.

Browning feels the shooting was an accident because his office received an anonymous letter about three weeks after the tragedy from someone apologizing for the hunter’s death. The ‘man’ said he’d run away from the area after hearing someone ‘yelling’, and was fearful because he knew he was trespassing. He had been tracking a deer that he’d shot while ‘trespassing’. He also asked authorities to tell the family “he was sorry”.

OV Outdoor Times

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November 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

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Sheriff Browning has shared the apology letter and wants it publicized, hoping the guilty party will come forward. “It’s coming up on the one-year anniversary of this accident, and would hope it’s eating him up,” said the sheriff of the offender.

A year ago Browning released only excerpts from the letter. Now his office hopes that by re-releasing the letter in its entirety that someone will step forward. Bradley’s family deserves that.

Anyone with information regarding this case should call the Gallia County Sheriff’s office at 740-446-1221 or the Tip Line at 740-446-6555.

Murder Suspect’s Arrest Still Troublesome While Pennsylvania law enforcement have finally caught and arrested fugitive murder suspect Eric Frein, in northeastern PA, is the fear of being in that part of the woods really going to go away soon? I doubt it. At least I would be hesitant about hunting, trapping, hiking, biking, fishing or walking in that region. The reason?

Frein was known to build and possess explosive devices while he was on the lamb.

Some of those devices, which were meant to kill people, could still be left in the area.

Obviously Frein, accused of brutally shooting down a PA state police corporal — in ambush style, wouldn’t have a problem leaving bombs laying around. While on the run after the shooting for more than five weeks, the state Game Commission closed hunting and trapping opportunities in seven townships. (See related story on Page 14.)

State Police officials have re-opened hunting and trapping seasons in that area but are urging everyone to remain alert and cautious when afield, because of Frein and what he’s capable of doing.

That’s an understatement!

To Advertise CALL 330-385-2243 Publisher/Editor, Larry Claypool lclaypool@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com

Outdoor Times

Graphics Designer, Linda McKenzie lmckenzie@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com

November 2014 VOL. 6, NO. 11

is published by Ohio Valley Outdoors Magazine

Offices located at

Ohio Valley Outdoor Times

210 E. 4th Street, East Liverpool, OH 43920 Phone 330-385-2243, Fax 330-385-7114 ohvod@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com

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Sales Consultant, Tracy Bissell tbissell@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com advertising@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com

Contributing Editors

Ralph Scherder, Hunting Editor Jeff Knapp, Fishing Editor Brian Miller, Field Editor

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November 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Antlerless Muzzleloader Harvest Increases Sharply in 2014

COLUMBUS, OH — Ohio’s muzzleloader hunters checked 6,613 antlerless white-tailed deer during a two-day season, October 11-12, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). That is an 18 percent increase from 2013, when hunters checked 5,608 deer, the first year for the antlerless muzzleloader season.

The Ohio counties that reported the most checked deer during the 2014 antlerless-only muzzleloader season: Ashtabula (228), Columbiana (180), Coshocton (177), Licking (164), Tuscarawas (151), Guernsey (150), Trumbull (147), Stark (145), Knox (143) and Adams (142).

An additional 1,313 deer were harvested by archery hunters on Oct. 11-12.

The total number of antlerless deer checked by hunters during the two days was 7,926, a 21 percent increase from 2013 (6,553).

Ohio hunters have many more opportunities to pursue deer throughout the fall and winter. The youth gun season is Nov. 22-23, gun season is Dec. 1-7, muzzleloader season is Jan. 2-5, 2015,

and archery season is open through Feb. 1, 2015.

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 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 accept-

HARRISBURG, PA — A Bellefonte man has been sentenced to spend up to 18 months in jail and pay more than $20,000 in fines and costs after pleading guilty Wednesday to poaching three bull elk, one of them among the largest on record in Pennsylvania.

Frank Gordo Buchanan Jr., 25, pleaded guilty Wednesday to three counts of unlawful taking of big game, and one count each of unlawful taking of game, unlawful use of a vehicle to take game, and unlawful use of an artificial light to take game.

As part of the plea agreement accepted

by Magisterial District Judge Jerome M. Nevling, of Kylertown, Buchanan will spend three to 18 months in the Clearfield County Jail and pay $9,550 in fines. Additionally, he is responsible for paying $11,500 in replacement costs for the poached elk, two of which are classified as trophy-class animals.

Two other men charged in the incident waived their rights to preliminary hearings on charges, sending their cases to county court. If they are convicted of unlawful taking of big game, they, too, would be required to contribute to re-

placement costs.

The charges against Buchanan stem from two nights of poaching in the same area of Karthaus Township, Clearfield County, in September. Buchanan had admitted to shooting all three elk.

The largest of the three bulls had a 10by 9-point non-typical rack that initially was measured at 432 7/8 inches, based on standards set forth by the Boone & Crockett big-game scoring program. At that score, and if the bull had been legally harvested, it would rank as Pennsylvania’s third-largest bull elk ever.

The other two illegally killed bulls included a 5- by 7-point bull measuring 243 1/8 inches and a 4- by 5-point bull measuring 178 3/8 inches.

In fact, the hunter who paid $41,000 for the license auctioned off by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation – a sum that will be used in its entirety to fund conservation efforts in Pennsylvania – was hunting the very record-book elk that was poached. The first of the illegally killed bulls – the 4-by-5 – was discovered Sept. 9 by a resident nearby.

The antlers had been removed, but most of the carcass was left to lay there.

Guilty Plea in Trophy Elk Poaching Case

able 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.

A list of all white-tailed deer checked by muzzleloader hunters during the 2014 antlerless muzzleloader hunting season, Oct. 11-12, is shown below. The first number following the county’s name shows the harvest numbers for the antlerless muzzleloader hunting season in 2014, and the 2013 harvest numbers are in parentheses. The antlerless muzzleloader harvest numbers do not include archery numbers. Adams: 142 (135); Allen: 41 (46); Ashland: 141 (111); Ashtabula: 228 (200); Athens: 133 (117); Auglaize: 42 (39); Belmont: 75 (99); Brown: 88 (94); Butler: 62 (57); Carroll: 133 (120); Champaign: 51 (36); Clark: 39 (28); Clermont: 76 (91); Clinton: 39 (34); Columbiana: 180 (128); Coshocton: 177 (138); Crawford: 41

3 (32); Cuyahoga: 4 (5); Darke: 41 (26); Defiance: 65 (48); Delaware: 64 (38); Erie: 30 (25); Fairfield: 81 (51); Fayette: 12 (7); Franklin: 29 (9); Fulton: 26 (29); Gallia: 93 (60); Geauga: 60 (63); Greene: 20 (26); Guernsey: 150 (144); Hamilton: 19 (18); Hancock: 33 (31); Hardin: 42 (43); Harrison: 115 (115); Highland: 100 (79); Hocking: 109 (103); Holmes: 103 (89); Huron: 96 (80); Jackson: 85 (62); Jefferson: 75 (82); Knox: 143 (141); Lake: 25 (18); Lawrence: 56 (54); Licking: 164 (164); Logan: 102 (77); Lorain: 115 (83); Lucas: 19 (28); Mahoning: 100 (75); Marion: 27 (27); Medina: 80 (68); Meigs: 128 (88); Mercer: 36 (26); Miami: 34 (20); Monroe: 59 (68); Morgan: 108 (65); Morrow: 56 (53); Muskingum: 136 (143); Noble: 79 (83); Ottawa: 24 (10); Paulding: 53 (56); Perry: 92 (54); Pickaway: 23 (18); Pike: 64 (51); Portage: 86 (64); Preble: 44 (41); Putnam: 32 (33); Richland: 98 (105); Ross: 94 (85); Sandusky: 41 (27); Scioto: 59 (64); Seneca: 83 (69); Shelby: 63 (63); Stark: 145 (66); Trumbull: 147 (117); Tuscarawas: 151 (115); Union: 58 (32); Van Wert: 20 (19); Vinton: 129 (79); Warren: 45 (39); Washington: 65 (72); Wayne: 104 (83); Williams: 69 (93); Wood: 42 (16) and Wyandot: 88 (58).Total: 6,613 (5,608).

4 Cackle From Page 1

made shooting difficult. As I got to a little opening where I thought the bird to be, though, there it was, and McDougal was already standing over it.

We continued hunting the rest of the farm, up over the hill and across the road to the old pasture. I wanted to get a second ringneck, which would be the first time I’d ever limited on pheasants. I was running out of daylight and hunting area as McDougal pushed through some thick brush along a narrow creek. Suddenly, with legal shooting time ticking away, a huge ringneck burst up out of the weeds, wings beating brush as it did, cackling its head off.

A flushing ringneck is an intimidating event. They flush with a cackle so loud it shatters the silence around you and the thoughts in your head. For a second everything goes blank, and you either choke and watch the bird fly off without a shot fired, or your instinct kicks in and you make the shot.

I made the shot. Barely. My pattern caught just enough of the bird to knock it out of the air. McDougal did the rest and finished it off. I slid the bird into the game pouch of my vest with the first one and walked home with my chest puffed

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

out just a little more.

I’ve been thinking about those early pheasant hunts a lot lately because I’ve been noticing what the Pennsylvania Game Commission has been doing with its pheasant program the past couple of years. They’re restoring old habitat, creating new habitat, and working hard to once again turn this state into a premiere bird hunting state. Combine that with an aggressive stocking program, and the opportunities for great pheasant hunting are endless. Almost every Game Lands in the state is stocked. The Game Commission has worked with countless landowners to keep lands open to hunters, and many of those farms are also stocked with pheasants. If all that isn’t enough, local chapters of Pheasants Forever have created huge tracks of land dedicated to restoring habitat and wild populations.

Many times, we hunters get caught up in the days of yore. No matter how good things are, we always look to the past for the “glory days.” But with so many projects going on across the state, it’s obvious that the glory days for pheasants in Pennsylvania are right now, and it’s that way in many other states as well – the pheasant hunting in the Midwest and Dakotas is better now than it’s ever been.

Pheasants and other small game serve

another, greater role in the future of our sport, too. Some may ask why the PA Game Commission is putting so much effort into pheasants. The answer is simple – research studies prove that youths who are introduced to hunting small game are more likely to become lifelong adult hunters than those youths whose first experiences are hunting whitetails.

Small game plays an important role in the evolution of hunters. Pheasants, rabbits, grouse, squirrels – they’re all stepping stones. Hunting small game teaches us about woodsmanship, marks-

November 2014

manship, and sportsmanship. Above all, it’s just plain exciting. The flush of a ringneck, the loud cackle as it lifts into the air on a cold November morning. It doesn’t get much better than that.

I’ll never forget my early experiences hunting pheasants. The Brittany spaniels we had years ago are long gone. In their place are three English setters – Cherry, Honse, and Harrison – who firmly believe that all pheasants belong in the game pouch. It’s a good time to be a bird dog in Pennsylvania. It’s also a good time to be a pheasant hunter.

Ohio Valley Outdoors– Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Ralph Scherder

The author’s dog, Cherry, points another bird while in the field.

November 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Clarion River (PA) Fishing OV Outdoor Times

In the steepsided valley of the Clarion River corridor darkness comes early during the fall. My friend Tom and I had only been on the banks of the river for an hour or so By Jeff Knapp when daylight Fishing Editor began to fade. I wasn’t disappointed though, since the action had been fairly slow. I told Tom that we could still squeak out a few nice fish, as Clarion River smallies often hit well late in the day.

A few moments later my soft jerkbait, a Winco Solid Body River Darter, was inhaled by a thick Clarion River smallmouth. Though nice-sized, in the 15inch range, it fought like a bass a few inches longer, perhaps invigorated by the cooling water. A couple minutes later I slipped it over the rim of the net.

Before total darkness set in, chasing us back to the truck, several other chunky smallies helped turn a slow start

into an exciting finish.

The Clarion River has a history of water quality problems, stemming mostly from a paper mill in Johnsonburg, as well as numerous feeder streams laden with acid mine drainage.

Much of that has been cleaned up in recent decades, particularly that of the paper mill. But I must say, having fished the Clarion downriver of Cook Forest over 40 years ago, there was no shortage of smallmouth bass in that section. So what was decent fishing then it likely a lot better now.

It’s been 10 years since the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission last sampled the Clarion. When they did so, fisheries managers found an good population of smallmouth bass ranging in size from three inch fingerlings up to 18 inches. Of the 207 bass collected at various sites within a 45 mile section of the river, many of them were in excess of the 12 inch minimum length limit.

The West Branch and East Branch of the Clarion join in the Elk County community of Johnsonburg. From there it flows eastward, eventually joining the

ODNR Awards $6 Million in Clean Ohio Grants

COLUMBUS, OH — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), has approved $6.1 million in Clean Ohio Trails Fund grants to improve outdoor recreational opportunities for Ohioans.

“These Clean Ohio Trails grants are the people’s money,” said ODNR Director James Zehringer. “By working together with local communities, we are investing in projects that will help Ohioans actively enjoy the outdoors for generations to come.”

The Clean Ohio Trails Fund, administered by ODNR, is one of four components of the Clean Ohio Fund, which restores, protects and connects Ohio’s natural and urban places. Ohioans approved the establishment of the $400 million bond program in 2000. This is the ninth round of funding to be awarded through the Clean Ohio Trails Fund.

ODNR has conditionally awarded 16 Clean Ohio Trails Fund grants for community projects that will build and maintain infrastructure allowing citizens to conveniently connect with nature. The projects will complete regional trail sys-

tems and links to statewide trails, link population centers with outdoor recreation areas and facilities, preserve natural corridors and connect urban areas to support commuter access. The investments help facilitate travel, enhance educational opportunities and provide safe, scenic areas where Ohioans can hike, bike or run and build healthy lifestyles.

The $6.1 million of funding will be used to develop 25 miles of new trail and for the construction of trail head facilities and a bridge for bike riders and pedestrians. Grant recipients, listed at ohiodnr.gov, will provide a 25 percent local match for their projects.

To date, the Clean Ohio Trail Fund has dedicated more than $47.43 million to provide Ohioans with better access to recreational opportunities through the creation of more than 317 miles of trails and the acquisition of 85 acres of abandoned railroad and greenway corridors.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.

Allegheny River near Parker. Piney Dam, a 12-mile long hydro-electric impoundment near the town of Clarion, impedes its flow temporarily. Below Piney Dam the river flows through a mostly remote valley. While gamefish are present, continuing AMD issues in that section limit the fishery.

Smallmouth bass are present throughout the section of the Clarion from Ridgway down to the Piney Dam backwaters.

Roads parallel or cross several sections of the river. Much of it is within state forest, state game lands, state park, as well as Allegheny National Forest, so public access is plentiful.

Bass are just part of the picture. Trout show up as well, including some true trophies. The Fish and Boat Commission annually stocks brown trout fingerlings in the Clarion from the merger of the East and West branches to the Route 36 bridge in Cooksburg. Many of the feeder streams, such as Maple Creek, Clear Creek, Spring Creek and Millstone Creek, Cathers Run and Toms Run receive adult trout, some of which make their way into the river. The mouths of the cool feeder streams are often the places where trout congregate, and catches are made.

The section of the Clarion from the

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Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Jeff Knapp

Tom Ference makes casts a streamer for smallmouth bass on the Clarion River.

Turn To Clarion Page 7

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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Great Start to Ohio Opener

By Bill Hall, Jr.

We had the best Ohio opener ever, even though it was in the 80’s all weekend. On Saturday I had both boys (Deonte and Chase) after giants in two different locations, Dad at a third spot and our young friend Mark at a fourth farm. The boys never saw any deer but luckily this big nine-point did the same thing he did as the night before when we were scouting.

The stand wasn’t setup for a right handed person and Dad knew that going into the hunt and sure enough had to shoot the deer left handed. Dad made a great shot and he didn’t go 50 yards into the beans.

Tom, Hannah, Mae, Abel came up early Sunday morning to hang out with everyone but Hannah and I carved out a little time to go practice shooting crossbow in the morning. I scouted these bucks Thursday and knew they were coming in pretty good but the wind was going to be really bad for us, but we don’t get much time to hunt together so thought we’d give it a try.

It was 83 degrees when we pulled into the spot and very hot the first 1 1/2 hours

in the blind. I told Hannah, “the deer should start moving any minute”. When I looked up, this guy was making a beeline right toward us. I set her up on the shooting sticks out the window where I expected the deer to go, but he stopped short and hung out — 90 degrees from how we were setup to shoot.

To make matters worse, when I grabbed the shooting sticks to help stabilize for Hannah my wedding ring hit the metal and the buck heard it, so we had a stare-down for five minutes before he went back to feeding.

Eventually I decided to take a chance and move Hannah 90 degrees for the shot while the buck was only 15 yards away.

Somehow we got away with the movement. It wasn’t 60 seconds later he presented the shot and Hannah made another perfect shot!

My dad wasn’t feeling good so he was sitting in the truck, watching the field. We had hoped he would get to see the shot but since Hannah shot in the woods, he didn’t know until I got out of the blind and waved him over to help recover the deer. The deer only went like 30 yards

November 2014

Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Bill Hall Jr.

Bill Hall, Sr. (left) with his nine-point buck and Hannah Hall, age 9, with her eight-point buck. Both were harvested with a crossbow in Licking County, OH.

and Hannah tracked him down.

We are all very excited. The next day,

Hannah’s big buck was on its way to the taxidermist!

Outdoor Events at WV State Parks lead to Thanksgiving

SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — A cornucopia of November activities leads to the Thanksgiving holidays at West Virginia’s state parks. Ten state parks lodges have restaurants in the 49 areas that make up the mountain state’s park system, and they will feature Thanksgiving meals and buffets. Those looking for a little exercise and outdoor discovery will find many activities, most free to attend and all open to the public.

Fly-fishing on the Bluestone is a package event known as “Trout Wrangler.”

Offered at Pipestem Resort State Park, the activity is available through Nov. 23, 2014. The experience includes horseback transportation to the river, four full meals, fishing for stocked trout, and overnight at Mountain Creek Lodge. A mentor is on-site to assist fly-fishing novices. Reservations are required. The participation per event is limited to 10.

Ed Wooton is the park contact at 304466-1800 or visit w w w. p i p e s t e m r e s o r t . c o m /Pipestem_trout_wringler.pdf.

“Journal to the Self” Fall Session at Cacapon Resort State Park is Nov. 1416. Whether you’ve written in a journal for years, or are just getting started, the methods taught in this workshop can help explore various aspects of yourself, your life and your relationships with others. The only skill needed to participate in the workshop is a willingness to be open to self-discovery and personal growth. The workshop is led by Anne Barney, certified instructor in the Journal to the Self curriculum and awardwinning author of four books of poetry.

The workshop is for those 18 years or older, and will have between four and 12 participants. Call 304-258-1022 x 5209 or on the web: www.cacaponresort.com.

Have a question for the OVO Pro Staff?

Please submit questions on a variety of topics to members of the Pro Staff via email at: prostaff@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com.

November 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Fall Turkey Season Opens in PA

HARRISBURG, PA — One of Pennsylvania’s most exciting seasons opened November 1 as hunters began pursuit of one of fall’s most coveted game animals, the wild turkey. Hunters need to focus on the varying season starts and lengths throughout the state’s 23 Wildlife Management Units (WMUs). Hunter compliance protects the resource and ensures better turkey hunting in coming years.

While season lengths in most WMUs remain unchanged from last year, the first season segment has been shortened from three weeks to two in WMUs 3A, 3B and 3C – all of which are in northern Pennsylvania – to help those populations rebound from declining trends. And while a three-day season remains intact in WMU 5A, the timing of the season has changed to a Thursday-through-Saturday format to provide greater opportunity for hunters whose schedules do not allow for a weekday hunt.

Hunters who didn’t participate in the fall turkey season last year still might be unaware of season length changes put in place in 2013 in some WMUs, due to an ongoing study to determine how the length of the fall season affects the fe-

male turkey harvest.

And, as usual, fall turkey hunting remains closed in WMUs 5B, 5C and 5D in southern Pennsylvania.

Now is the time to check the dates of when seasons open and close, Game Commission Executive Director R. Matthew Hough said. “As is typically the case for the fall turkey season, different season lengths apply in different units, and the seasons in a handful of WMUs have been shortened this year, or are starting on a different day of the week,” Hough said. “The changes are easy to follow, though, and are laid out clearly in the Hunting & Trapping Digest issued to all buyers of hunting and furtaker licenses.

Information on turkey seasons, bag limits and other regulations can be found on Page 32 of the 2014-15 Pennsylvania Hunting & Trapping Digest.

In most of the state, the fall turkey season opened Nov. 1. The seasons are as follows: WMU 1B – Nov. 1 to 8, and Nov. 27 to 29; WMU 2B (shotgun and archery only) – Nov. 1 to 21, and Nov. 27 to 29; WMUs 1A, 2A, 2D, 2F, 2G, 2H, 3A, 3B and 3C – Nov. 1 to 15, and

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Nov. 27 to 29; WMUs 2C, 2E, 3D, 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D and 4E – Nov. 1 to 21, and Nov. 27 to 29; and WMU 5A – Nov. 6 to 8.

The two-week season in WMUs 3A, 3B and 3C was adopted by the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners earlier this year in response to decreasing turkey populations in those units.

The two-week seasons in WMUs 2F,

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2G and 2H, as well as the three-week seasons in WMUs 2C, 2E, 4A, 4B and 4D are the result of the ongoing hen study, which is in its fourth of four years.

At the end of the four-year study, the two separate study areas each will have had two consecutive years with a twoweek season and two consecutive years with a three-week season.

TAKE A KID HUNTING OR FISHING Clarion From Page 5

Route 36 bridge to the backwaters of Piney Dam is one of the wilder stretches, crossed only by the Gravel Lick Bridge a few miles downriver of Cooksburg. It’s this section that I’m most familiar with.

The Fish and Boat Commission stocks walleyes in Piney Dam, and they are taken with fair consistency in the reservoir section. Many times I’ve fished the upper end of Piney Dam, from the Commission’s access site at the mouth of Mill Creek, up to where the free-flowing river joins the impounded water and it becomes unnavigable for a power boat. I’ve found it to be somewhat of a feast or famine situation. At times, I’ve had great days on big smallmouth bass and nice walleyes. I’ve also gone fishless. Other anglers I’ve spoken to have experienced similar results. My outings have taken place during spring and late fall. The local WCO told me that the lake’s gamefish tend to follow the abundant golden shiner population around the lake, possibly explaining the here today, gone tomorrow situation.

Hunters’ Venison Donations Provide 11 Million Meals

NEWTOWN, CT — For food banks nationwide, acquiring protein is a challenge because of the high cost of meat.

Fortunately during hunting season, hunters help make up the shortfall with generous donations of protein-rich, lowfat venison that provide 11 million meals annually to the less fortunate.

The National Shooting Sports Foundation, the trade association for the firearms, ammunition, hunting and shooting sports industry, reports that, thanks to hunters, an estimated 2.8 million pounds of game meat makes its way each year to food pantries, church kitchens and shelters and onto the plates of those in need.

“Without venison, some of these organizations would not have protein, wouldn’t have meat, to give to those folks who are coming in,” said Peter Aldrich of Hunt To Feed in Connecticut.

With one deer able to feed up to 200 people, it’s easy to see how important donations of hunter-harvested venison are to charitable food providers. Last year in Missouri, for example, 4,500 hunters donated more than 227,000

pounds of venison through a state program.

The NSSF video called Share Your Harvest encourages hunters to contribute some portion of their harvest this hunting season. “If you have a successful hunting season, donating venison is a way to make it an even better and more meaningful one,” points out Glenn Sapir, the video’s host.

Many states have at least one organization that will accept donations of venison or other game meat and ensure it is properly processed and reaches individuals and families in need of a nutritious meal. The NSSF website Hunters Feed can assist hunters in finding a charitable food provider, and your state wildlife agency, local fish and game club or food pantry can help as well. Various donation guidelines may apply, so it’s best to check with the organization or processor before bringing in your game.

If you’re not a hunter and wish to be part of this caring effort, most organizations will accept donations to help pay for butchering and other services.

For information, visit www.nssf.org.

8

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Take the Boat Winterizing Quiz

ALEXANDRIA, VA — You’re putting the boat away for winter. So what half-truth, wive’s tale or tall story have you heard about winterizing a recreational boat? Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) helps to set the record straight.

True or False: Ethanol (E10) fuel and engines: If a boat has a built-in gas tank, it’s recommended to leave the tank as full as possible over the winter with a smidgen of room for fuel expansion.

TRUE: Leaving the tank nearly full limits the amount of moisture that can potentially condense inside on the tank’s walls as outside temperatures fluctuate, preventing phase separation of ethanol (E10) fuel. Note one caveat: If your boat is stored in a rack system or indoor storage, check with the marina. They may require you to empty the tank to minimize the risk of fire. TIP: Never plug a fuel vent. Ever.

FALSE: Once gasoline phase separates, that’s it. Kaput. End of story. The only solution is to have a pro remove the contaminated fuel and water mixture and start anew — a difficult, hazardous and costly task for boats with built-in fuel tanks. However, it’s critical to use a fuel stabilizer each fall to help keep fuel fresh over the winter, keep corrosion at bay and to help prevent the onset of phase separation. TIP: Put the stabilizer in before you nearly fill the tank for its long winter nap. This will allow stabilizer to fully course through the fuel system as you run the engine when filling with anti-freeze.

Ethanol and phase separation: Come springtime, any phase-separated gasoline in the tank can be fixed by adding a fuel stabilizer or additive.

Freeze damage: Because it’s cold up there, BoatUS insurance claims for engine block freezing come from northern climates.

FALSE: While there are quite a few claims from the colder climates, many boat insurance freeze damage claims also come from southern, temperate states hit by an unexpected freeze or when space heaters fail due to sudden storm power loss. In the northern climes, storm power outages also are to blame

COLUMBUS, OH — The 2014 Ohio acorn mast survey conducted at 38 wildlife areas showed an increase in production from 2013. Ohio’s fall crop of acorns is an important food source for more than 90 forest wildlife species, and mast crop abundance can influence hunting plans.

ODNR Division of Wildlife employees scanned the canopies of selected oak trees on wildlife areas to determine the percentage of trees that produced acorns and the relative size of the acorn crop.

• Results showed that an average of 52 percent white oaks and 68 percent red oaks bore fruit in 2014. This exceeds the production in 2013, matches the production in 2012, and nearly matches the banner year of 2010.

• White oak acorn production increased on 33 (87 percent) wildlife areas compared to 2013.

• Acorn production is cyclical, with some trees producing acorns nearly every year, and others rarely producing. This year is an above average year.

Ohio’s 2014 Fall Acorn Crop is Good

November 2014

for engine block freeze related claims, however, both areas of the country have their fair share of winter freeze claims due to one reason: the failure to follow winterizing procedures. TIP: Don’t let your buddy do the job — it’s a common refrain BoatUS claims staff hears every spring after a cracked block is discovered. Having your marina winterize your Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of BoatUS boat and systems may offer better pro- This boat was “winterized” by placing a space heater in the engine room. While afloat in tection if there is an issue come springtime. Another option is adding ice and the slip, it caught fire when the extension cord used to power the heater shorted. freeze insurance to your boat insurance — most insurers do not charge much for it, but there are deadlines to purchase an engine flushing system — typically a (BoatUS offers it for as little as $25 to its simple valve with a connection for a garinsured members until October 30). den hose along with an anti-freeze pickup hose/strainer — on your engine.

Space Heaters: It’s okay to “winterize” the boat by leaving a space heater About BoatUS: running onboard.

Boat Owners Association of The FALSE: In addition to the sudden United States (BoatUS.com) is the napower outage problem, every winter tion’s leading advocate for recreational BoatUS sees fires from heaters, plugs boaters providing its over half-million and cords, and from heaters that were left members with government representarunning on unattended boats. Unless you tion, services such as 24-hour dispatch, live in Hawaii or the Florida Keys, Boa- on water boat towing as well as roadside tUS recommends winterizing your en- assistance for boat trailers and tow vehigine if you will be laying up the boat for cles, feature-packed boat insurance proeven a few weeks to lessen the chances grams. of sudden freeze damage. TIP: Save time For information: BoatUS.org/courses. and make winterizing easier by installing

Venison Chili • Prep Time: 20 min. • Cook Time: 45 min. • Ready In: 1 hr. 5 min. • Yields: 6 Servings

1 lb. ground venison 1 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes or diced fresh tomatoes 1 14 oz. can red kidney beans 2 each habanero peppers chopped fine seeds removed 1 3.75 oz. package chili seasoning mix www.Sportsmanstable.com Item #CYC2141 1 medium onion diced 1 green bell peppers seeds removed 2 cherry hot peppers seeds removed

Directions:

1. brown ground venison, add onions and peppers mid way through cooking venison.

Then add tomatoes, beans, and chili seasoning packet.

www.SportsMansTable.com http://recipes.sportsmanstable.com/

November 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

9

PRODUCT REVIEW Optimizer Lite King Pin

OV Outdoor Times

For an unprecedented 11th straight year, HHA Sports struck gold with their Optimizer by retaining the prestigious Bowhunting World Reader’s Choice Award in the single pin category. What more could they possibly do to enhance this already iconic brand? The answer By Brian Miller is simple: THE OP- Field Editor TIMIZER LITE KING PIN (MSRP $349). Twenty years in the making, the King Pin marks the third generation of archery’s #1 selling single pin and is loaded with features no other bow sight can offer.

The most notable difference is its wheel-forward design, making it compatible with virtually any quiver and extending it further in front of the riser

than the Optimizer Lite and Lite Ultra.

With 2.1” of vertical travel and touting the industry’s most accurate yardage tape system, the King Pin’s silky smooth all-brass rack and pinion can be dialed from 20 to 100 yards in 1 yard increments. Interchangeable yardage wheels can be swapped out in seconds for shooters that change their set-ups frequently, eliminating the need to retape the sight each time. Enhanced with a crystal clear magnifier hovering over the yardage scale, adjustments to a fraction of a yard are now a reality. A “Blind 20” feature allows the shooter to return the sight to their 20-yard mark while keeping an eye on the target and illuminated sight tapes, courtesy of an add-on Blue Burst light, are sure to be a hit with the ground blind crowd.

With the choice of a 1 5/8” or 2” sight aperture and available in .010 of .019 fiber diameters, the King Pin boasts an exclusive mechanical rheostat that infi-

Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of HHA Sports

OPTIMIZER LITE KING PIN

nitely dims and brightens the pin intensity. Optional magnification lenses (manufactured by Feather Visions) are available in 2x, 4x and 6x and ideal for competition or hunters with aging eyes.

Fully integrated 2nd and 3rd axis adjustment top it all off to make the King Pin the most accurate and versatile Optimizer ever!

Designed for the target shooter or bowhunter desiring an extended sight bar, the Optimizer Lite King Pin Tournament Edition (MSRP $379) marks

HHA’s first ever journey into the target and 3D world. With all the features of its hunting counterpart, as well as sun shades and sight covers, the King Pin TE offers 4” to 8” of dovetail adjustment and is sure to be making an appearance at the top of the podium soon.

Like its predecessors, the King Pin is made in the USA and carries a 100% Lifetime Warranty. To read more about the Optimizer Lite King Pin and other HHA products, visit www.hhasports.com.

10

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

WVDNR Offers Treestand Safety Tips

SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV – November is a big month for hunters, and the Division of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds hunters that safety is the most important part of a successful season.

One of the most popular pieces of equipment used by deer hunters is a treestand. Treestands can be dangerous if they are used incorrectly or carelessly.

Nationally, one in three hunting injuries involves a treestand. Falls from treestands can be caused by a variety of factors, including a weakness in the stand’s structure and incorrect installation.

Hunters also may fall asleep while on their stands. Treestands can also be a factor in other hunting accidents, including injury from accidental firing of a loaded firearm while the hunter is climbing to the stand.

“Because treestand incidents have become the most common cause of hunter injuries, DNR has been emphasizing treestand safety in the mandatory hunter education courses we schedule around the state,” said Col. Jerry Jenkins, Chief of the DNR Law Enforcement Section.

To help prevent these accidents, follow these safety precautions: • Never carry equipment with you while climbing. Use a haul line to raise or lower your gear. Make sure guns are unloaded and broadheads are covered prior to raising or lowering firearms or bows with a haul line. w w w. y o u t u b e . c o m / w a t c h ? v = O c 6o9GaHtY • Since most accidents occur when hunters are climbing up or down a tree, always use a climbing belt. Always use a safety belt or harness when hunting from elevated treestands. Study manufacturer’s recommendations before using any equipment. Never use a rope to replace a safety belt.

• Check permanent treestands every year before hunting from them, and replace any worn or weak lumber.

• Read, understand and follow the factory recommended practices and procedures when installing commercial stands. Inspect portable stands for loose nuts and bolts each time they are used.

• Choose only healthy, living trees when using climbing devices. Roughbarked trees such as oak are best. Do not use a tree that is rotten or has dead limbs.

• Never put all your weight on a single branch. Keep at least one hand and one foot on a secure place when reaching for the next hold.

• Climb higher than the stand and step

down onto it. Climbing up onto it can dislodge it.

• Wear boots with non-skid soles, because steps or platforms can be slippery in rain, sleet or snow.

• Tell a dependable person where you’re hunting and when you plan on returning. Map your whereabouts and leave a note at camp, at home or in your car so that you can be found.

• Don’t fall asleep. This is a common cause of accidents. If you get drowsy,

Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of WVDNR

Treestand safety is a major part of the West Virginia DNR’s Hunter Education course.

move your arms rapidly until you feel alert.

• Never wear a ring in any climbing situation. Rings can catch on tree limbs and equipment.

• As a precautionary measure, remove all logs, upturned and cutoff saplings, rocks and other obstructions on the ground below the treestand.

• Use updated equipment. When used properly, newer tree stand equipment is solid, safe and secure. Older models of safety belts offer some protection, but newer safety harnesses offer more protection.

• Carry a whistle to call for help and carry a first aid kit, flashlight and cellular telephone in a fanny pack.

All persons born on or after Jan. 1, 1975, must first successfully complete a certified hunter education course before purchasing a hunting license. The course is free and takes about 12 hours to complete. Information about the course and a schedule of classes can be found at http://wvdnr.gov/lenforce/education.sht m or by calling 304-558-2784. An online version of the course also is available, although the final test must be taken in person.

November 2014

November 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Many Ohio Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Seasons are Open

COLUMBUS, OH — Hunting and trapping seasons for many of Ohio’s furbearer’s began November 10, including red and gray fox, raccoon, skunk, opossum, weasel, mink, and muskrat.

Red and gray fox, raccoon, skunk, opossum, and weasel seasons are open through January 31, 2015. Mink and muskrat hunting and trapping seasons are open through February 28, 2015.

For Erie, Ottawa, and Sandusky counties, as well as the area of Lucas County east of the Maumee River, mink, muskrat, raccoon, opossum, skunk, and weasel trapping season extends through March 15, 2015.

Beaver and river otter trapping seasons are open December 26 through Feb. 28, 2015. River otter trapping is allowed in 43 counties, mainly in eastern and central Ohio. Bag limits for otter trapping vary by county.

• A fur taker permit is required in addition to a valid Ohio hunting license to hunt or trap furbearing animals, except for coyotes, which may be hunted or trapped year-round without a fur taker permit. A special Ohio Division of

Wildlife permit is required to trap beaver and river otter on state public hunting areas.

• Although coyote have no closed season and no daily bag limit, special regulations for hunting and trapping coyote during deer gun season exist. Rifles and night-vision scopes are legal for coyote hunting, but are prohibited between 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise during any deer-gun and deer-muzzleloader seasons.

• River otters were reintroduced into Ohio from 1986-1993 and have increased their range in the state. River otters were removed from Ohio’s Endangered Species List in 2002. Full details of open counties as well as checking and permit requirements can be found at wildohio.gov.

• River otters that are accidentally captured, either in excess of bag limits or in closed counties, must be released unharmed. River otters that cannot be released must be turned over to the Ohio Division of Wildlife. Beaver trappers in particular are advised to watch for river otter sign and modify set placements

Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Larry Claypool

Many of Ohio’s 2014-15 furbearer’s seasons opened November 10 and run through January 31, 2015.

where necessary. The Ohio State Trappers Association and the Ohio Division of Wildlife published a guide on how to recognize river otter sign and use avoidance techniques while trapping for beaver in areas closed to river otter trapping. A copy of the publication can be ordered by calling 800-WILDLIFE (1800-945-3543).

• Additional hunting and trapping information is available in the 2014-2015 Ohio Hunting and Trapping Regulations at wildohio.gov, or by calling 1-800WILDLIFE (1-800-945-3543).

11 PA Maintains 29 Public Shooting Ranges

HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Game Commission provides 29 public shooting ranges in the Commonwealth. About half of the ranges are for rifles only and at least 100 yards in length. Sixteen of the ranges accomodate both a rifle and pistol range. The 29 shooting ranges are located in 26 different counties.

Those who shoot firearms at one of the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s state game lands public shooting ranges must possess and carry with them either an annual $30 range use permit or a current general hunting or furtaker license. Individuals without a range use permit or hunting or furtaker license may be fined.

Unless otherwise posted, these ranges are open year-round, from 8 a.m. until sunset, Monday through Saturday, and noon to sunset on Sundays. See the exception for Scotia Range. Contact the appropriate Region Office to check the daily status of ranges you wish to visit.

Before you visit, review the Shooting Range Regulations and Prohibited Acts.

Do not collect the brass of shooters while the range is active.

Turn To Ranges Page 16

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

12

Drivers Use Caution:

Deer on Move

HARRISBURG, PA — With deer becoming increasingly active, and daylight saving time places more vehicles on the road during the hours when deer move most, the Pennsylvania Game Commission is advising motorists to slow down and stay alert.

“All motorists should be advised that white-tailed deer have entered a period of increased activity and are crossing roads more frequently as a result,” said Game Commission Executive Director R. Matthew Hough. “While drivers should always remain alert and on the lookout for whitetails crossing roads, now more than ever is a time to pay particular attention while behind the wheel.”

Deer become more active in autumn with the lead up to their fall breeding season, commonly referred to as the “rut.” Around this time, many yearling bucks disperse from the areas in which they were born and travel sometimes several dozen miles to find new ranges.

Meanwhile, adult bucks more often are cruising their home ranges in search of

does, and they sometimes chase the does they encounter.

Add to this the fact autumn sees a number of people taking part in outdoor activities that might flush deer from forested areas or briar thickets, and that deer are more active feeding to store energy for winter months, and it quickly becomes evident why motorists might be more likely to encounter deer on roads.

The start of daylight saving time also increases vehicular traffic between dusk and dawn – the peak hours for deer activity.

Drivers can reduce their chances of collisions with deer by staying alert and better understanding deer behavior. Motorists are urged to pay particular attention while driving on stretches marked with “Deer Crossing” signs.

For example, deer often travel in family groups and walk single file. So even if one deer uccessfully crosses the road in front of a driver, it doesn’t mean the threat is over. Another could be right behind it.

A driver who hits a deer with vehicle is not required to report the accident to the Game Commission. If the deer dies, only Pennsylvania residents may claim the carcass. To do so, they must call the Game Commission region office representing the county where the accident occurred and an agency dispatcher will collect the information needed to provide a free permit number, which the caller should write down.

A resident must call within 24 hours of taking possession of the deer. A passing Pennsylvania motorist also may claim the deer, if the person whose vehicle hit it doesn’t want it.

Antlers from bucks killed in vehicle collisions either must be turned over to the Game Commission, or purchased for $10 per point by the person who claims the deer. Also, removing antlers from road-killed bucks is illegal.

If a deer is struck by a vehicle, but not killed, drivers are urged to maintain their distance because some deer might recover and move on. However, if a deer does not move on, or poses a public safety risk, drivers are encouraged to report the incident to a Game Commission regional office or other local law enforcement agency. If the deer must be

November 2014

put down, the Game Commission will direct the proper person to do so.

To report a dead deer for removal from state roads, motorists can call the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation at 1-800-FIX-ROAD. Tips for motorists • Don’t count on deer whistles or deer fences to deter deer from crossing roads in front of you. Stay alert.

• Watch for the reflection of deer eyes and for deer silhouettes on the shoulder of the road. If anything looks slightly suspicious, slow down.

• Slow down in areas known to have a large deer population; where deer-crossing signs are posted; places where deer commonly cross roads; areas where roads divide agricultural fields from woods; and whenever in forested areas between dusk and dawn.

• Deer do unpredictable things. Sometimes they stop in the middle of the road when crossing. Sometimes they cross and quickly re-cross back from where they came. Sometimes they move toward an approaching vehicle. Assume nothing. Slow down; blow your horn to urge the deer to leave the road. Stop if the deer stays on the road; don’t try to go around it.

Send us your t rophy photos

Pam Williams 1st deer, muzzleloader Jefferson County, OH

For our contests & Nikon 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

November 2014

Hip Waders and a Modern Day Trapper OV Outdoor Times

I wondered, what would it be like to walk in the shoes of a modern day trapper? I did this, for a few days last month. Well, I By Larry Claypool walked in boots Editor actually, hip waders to be exact.

I recently spent some time on a trapline with one of the most versatile outdoorsman — and trappers — I know, OV Outdoor Times Hunting Editor Ralph Scherder. The 36year-old Butler County (PA) resident has been running a trap line since he was 14, when he convinced his dad to teach him the trade. Scherder’s also an experienced hunter, archer, fly fisherman, outdoor writer, author, TV host, seminar speaker and taxidermist, which is his full-time vocation.

Trapping is a time-honored American tradition, started by “Mountain Men” in the 1800’s for necessary furs and valuable trade.

Trapping animals these days could be considered more of a “hobby”.

In the last 10-15 years fur trapping hasn’t been taken too seriously because there’s not much money to be made. (There have been a few good years during that span though.)

The purest however — like Scherder — are keeping the tradition of trapping alive — profit or not. With fur prices expected to be down this year, Scherder says he will be happy to break even.

Breaking even for a venture like fur trapping makes for a tough trade. It’s hard work. And it doesn’t let up. Traps are set and re-set every day, in season, and must be checked every day for furbearers. Scherder says the cost of traps, lures, bait and other equipment used for trapping have gone up considerably. The market prices for furs haven’t made up for those increases.

For Scherder, who anticipates a good 2014-15 season, opened the first week with 73 traps (both leg and dog proof traps) — set in about 28 locations. I was able to accom-

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

13

pany him in initially setting about half of the traps, then helped check all of them on opening day, September 27.

It was my first jaunt on a trapline.

Scherder’s surely made thousands of trips. Since it was the opening day of this season Scherder hoped for a minimum of 10 catches. The quarry would mostly be raccoons, he advised me as we waited for near daylight to check the first two sets.

We were dealt a decent day, weather-wise to check the season’s first sets. The chilly morning started with a temperature of around 40 degrees, with a little fog.

It ended up being a beautiful day to be outdoors, with clear skies and a Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Larry Claypool Veteran trapper Ralph Scherder with two nice raccoons he trapped during opening day of the 2014 high temperature of 55. trapping season in Pennsylvania. Scherder netted eight raccoons and one possum on this day.

Trapping-wise, it was a decent day, said Scherder. We netted eight ‘coons and one possum. Several sets were tripped and were misses, which troubled the veteran trapper.

I also netted several great photo- Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photos

by Larry Claypool graphs of the animals, the trap sets, Ralph Scherder (lower Scherder and the scenery in and left) with the first catch around the area. of the day. At right is a See more photos of my trapping raccoon that managed to trip to Pennsylvania in the Winter climb a tree while in a Issue of Ohio Valley Outdoors, due leg trap, which is on newsstands December 5. attached to a junk tire.

14

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

With Fugitive Captured Hunting Seasons Restored in Part of PA HARRISBURG, PA — With fugitive murder suspect Eric Frein no longer on the loose, Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director R. Matthew Hough have lifted the temporary prohibition on hunting and trapping activity in all areas that had been affected by the manhunt.

That means hunters in the previously closed area were able to participate in the November opener of the fall turkey season, as well as all other hunting and trapping seasons.

Hough on October 1 issued an executive order that temporarily closed all hunting and trapping seasons within seven townships in northeastern Pennsylvania — Price, Barrett and Paradise townships in Monroe County; and Blooming Grove, Porter, Lehman and Greene townships in Pike County. More recently, the order was amended to keep the temporary closure in place only in Monroe County.

With Frein now captured and charged in the ambush-shooting death of a Pennsylvania state trooper, and with Pennsyl-

vania State Police giving the green light to reopen those Monroe County townships to hunting and trapping, Hough is rescinding the order. The decision to lift the order at midnight was made to give state police time to finish processing the search area.

“It is with great relief that the search for Eric Frein has reached its end without further incident, and that the fugitive has been apprehended and charged,” Hough said. “I’m certain justice will be served.

“With the search no longer active, the Pennsylvania State Police has advised there no longer is a need to keep in place any temporary prohibition on hunting and trapping activity in northeastern Pennsylvania,” Hough said. “I personally would like to congratulate state police for bringing this manhunt to a successful conclusion, and I’d also like to thank our hunters and trappers, who cooperated and complied with this executive order, and otherwise did their part to allow police to continue the search that led to the suspect’s apprehension.”

November 2014

Aside from all previously closed hunting and trapping seasons being restored, all portions of State Game Lands 221 have been reopened to hunters and trappers. While the manhunt was ongoing access to portions of the game lands was closed.

Pennsylvanians are reminded that the primary purposes of state game lands are to provide wildlife habitat, and hunting and trapping opportunities for license buyers, and secondary recreational uses are tightly restricted during hunting and trapping seasons.

Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Ellen Ferretti noted all DCNR lands in Monroe County also are being reopened to hunters and other recreational users.

Frein is charged in the September 12 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 temporary closure of the hunting and trapping seasons was made in consultation with state police after explosive devices believed to be left by Frein, one of them set to detonate through a trip wire, were recovered during the search.

The devices posed an obvious safety threat, and Hough exercised authority granted to him by the Pennsylvania Game and Wildlife to temporarily close the seasons because of safety concerns.

Now that the seasons have been reopened, Hough urged hunters and trappers to remain alert and cautious, and report any possible evidence related to Frein to the Pennsylvania State Police TIP Line at 1-866-326-7256.

COLUMBUS, OH — Hunters have the opportunity to pursue ring-necked pheasants this fall at many wildlife areas across Ohio. More than 15,000 ringnecked pheasants have been or will be released at 27 Ohio public hunting areas to provide additional hunting opportuni-

ties.

Pheasants were released in October, prior to the small-game weekends for youth hunters. The complete list of release sites is found in the 2014-2015 Ohio Hunting and Trapping regulations booklet.

Turn To Pheasant Page 15

Pheasant Releases Provide Additional Hunting Opportunities in Ohio

National Conceal Carry Reciprocity Update

On November 17, 2011, the U.S. House or Representatives passed H.R. 822 (the National Right-to-Carry Reciprocity Act of 2011) by an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 272-154. This legislation is intended to allow individuals with a valid conceal carry permit to carry their firearm in any state that allows conceal carry. This bill does not create a ‘national’ permit; it simplifies the patchwork of conceal carry reciprocity between states. It was received in the senate, read twice, and referred tot he Committee on the Judiciary. There, it died.

On February 6, 2013, H.R. 578, the Respecting States’ Rights and Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2013 was introduced in the U.S. House. Twenty-two days later it was referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, And Investigations, and there it sits.

On August 1, 2013, H.R.2959, the National Right-to-Carry Reciprocity Act of 2013 was introduced in the U.S. House.

Six weeks later on September 13, this bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, And Investigations, and there it sits.

On January 9, 2014, the U.S. Senate introduced S.1908, the Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2014. It was read twice and referred to the Senate Committee of the Judiciary, and there it sits.

The 113th United States Congress ends on January 3, 2015. On that day, H.R.578, H.R.2959 and S.1908 will die.

This will end another disappointing two years for the law-abiding citizens in the U.S. —Bill Waugaman

November 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Forest and WMA Roads Open to Hunters with Disabilities

SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — Physically-challenged hunters possessing a Class Q/QQ hunting permit may hunt on designated roads throughout the Monongahela National Forest, portions of the George Washington/Jefferson National Forest in West Virginia and on selected wildlife management areas, according to Curtis I. Taylor, chief of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife Resources Section.

“The designation of these Class Q/QQ roads on national forest lands in West Virginia is a cooperative effort between the U.S. Forest Service and the DNR,” Taylor said. “This highly successful program provides hunting access for physically-challenged sportsmen and women. For the past 20 years, these areas have been well received by hunters.”

To participate in this program, hunters must possess either a Class Q (resident) or Class QQ (nonresident) permit issued by the DNR. Applications for these permits may be obtained at any DNR office or hunting and fishing license agent. In

addition to the Class Q/QQ hunting permit, both resident and nonresident hunters must possess all applicable hunting licenses and stamps. Nonresidents hunting on national forest lands must also possess a National Forest Stamp (Class I).

Hunters with a Class Q/QQ permit must apply in person at the appropriate national forest district office or DNR district office and receive a letter of authorization. This documentation must be in the hunter’s possession while hunting on the designated roads in the program.

The Class Q/QQ permit holders may be accompanied by no more than one assistant, at least 16 years of age, when hunting within a designated area. The assistant cannot hunt while accompanying the Class Q/QQ permit holder.

Authorized hunters will have access to specific gates via a special lock. While behind the gate, hunters must observe all national forest and/or state wildlife management area regulations and all state hunting regulations.

In addition to the special access areas, Class Q/QQ permit holders may partic-

Editor’s Note: See this full story and many other trapping articles and photos in the Winter Issue of Ohio Valley Outdoors magazine, on newsstands December 5.

came widened enough for wagon trails leading to the settlement of the west by Easterners. Many of the independent trappers were known for their exploration and Trapper circa 1840s exploits: John Colter, 1774-1812, one of the first mountain men and member of the Lewis and Clark exploration team, was the first European man to enter into Yellowstone and tell of the geysers and hot springs. One area is still known today as Colter’s Hell.

Jim Bridger, 1804-1881, another notable mountain man was fond of tall tales and stories.

Kit Carson, 1809-1868, was a famous American trailblazer and Indian fighter well-known for his bravery and kindness. Carson was acquainted and worked with Jim Bridger and they founded the Rocky Mountain Fur Company competing with the all powerful Hudson’s Bay Company.

American Fur Trappers

By Michael Gordon

This country was traveled and explored by many adventurous men known as ‘fur trappers’. The Mountain Men as they were called, were common in the western Rockies from the years 1810 through 1880. The peak period of the trapper was around 1840 when fur prices were high and beaver were abundant. At least 3,000 Mountain Men ranged the mountains between 1810 and 1840.

Most of the men were employed by the large fur companies and were held by strict rules. Having to sell the fur only to them. Some were free trappers. Today we would call them ‘freelance trappers’, who would sell their pelts to whoever paid the best prices, be holding to no one.

Their trails through mountain passes and around impassable areas were known as emigrant trails and later be-

Ohio Valley Outdoors - Photo courtesy of WVDNR

Physically-challenged hunters in West Virginia are offered additional access on several designated roads throughout the state.

ipate in the special Class Q/QQ antlerless deer hunt on December 26-27, 2014. This special split-antlerless deer season for Youth, Class Q/QQ and Class XS (Lifetime Senior Citizen) hunters will be held on private land in all counties having a firearms deer hunting season and on all public lands within these counties. The bag limit of one antlerless deer per day will not count toward the hunter’s annual deer season bag limit.

The U.S. Forest Service and DNR are committed to providing quality hunting opportunities for physically-challenged hunters and welcome comments and

15

suggestions from participating hunters.

For more information concerning access to national forest or wildlife management area Class Q/QQ roads, contact the U.S. Forest Service (304-636-1800) or DNR (304-637-0245). Information is also available on the DNR’s website (www.wvdnr.gov).

Pheasant From Page 14

Ohio’s pheasant hunting season began November 7, and pheasant releases were scheduled for Nov. 6 and 14. The final release of the year is scheduled to provide improved pheasant hunting opportunities throughout the Thanksgiving holiday weekend and will take place Nov. 26.

• Youth and regular pheasant hunting within the Ringneck Ridge Area in Sandusky County requires a free permit from the Sandusky County Park District.

• Pheasant hunting season is open Nov. 7 through Jan. 4, 2015, with a daily bag limit of two roosters (male pheasants). No hens (females) can be killed.

Females are all brown while males have a green head, a red and brown body, and long tail feathers. Pheasant hunting hours are sunrise to sunset. For information, call 1-800-945-3543.

16

November 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

PA Fall Turkey Forecast

HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania is hoping for similar hunting participation as last fall, when the number of fall turkey hunters increased to 199,000, an increase of 70,000. Fall turkey hunting remains a strong tradition in Pennsylvania, with more than 483,000 hunters participating in the fall season during the peak year in 1980. There were 16,755 fall turkey harvests in 2013, and number of harvests and hunters in Pennsylvania remain, by far, the highest in the northeast, said Mary Jo Casalena, Game Commission wild turkey biologist.

According to Casalena, fall hunter success depends on several factors: • Summer turkey reproduction – Larger flocks translate to larger harvests; • Food availability – The better the soft- and hard-mast production, the more nomadic flocks become and the more difficult it is to harvest birds; • Weather during the season - Weather affects hunter participation, and; • Overall hunter participation – More hunters in the woods keep flocks dispersed making it easier for hunters to call in lost birds.

“Although turkey reproduction this summer was below average in many

WMUs, translating to smaller flocks this fall in those units, reproduction did vary and many hens simply nested later than normal due to the harsh winter, and these poults may still be growing when the season opens,” Casalena said.

Casalena said acorn, cherry and hickorynut production also varied across the state, with red-oak acorn production and soft mast, like apples and grapes, seeing average to above-average production in many areas. That abundance of food might make turkeys harder to locate, she said.

“Abundant natural food tends to keep turkey flocks on the move as there is no need to concentrate on one food source,” Casalena said. “Therefore, hunters have the opportunity for plenty of exercise as it might take several miles, or several days, of searching to find flocks.

“So don’t get discouraged if flocks aren’t in their normal locations,” Casalena said. “This might be the year to explore more, or new, areas in search of your quarry.”

Casalena said the fall season is a great time to introduce a novice turkey hunter to turkey hunting.

“It’s not only a great time to be in the

Ohio Valley Outdoors - Photo by Jake Dingel/PGC

Fall turkey hunting remains a strong tradition in Pennsylvania.

the previous long-term average of 38,756. Hunter success, 18 percent, was slightly higher than 2013 and the previous long-term average, both 17 percent.

Pennsylvania hunters have consistently maintained spring harvests above 30,000 bearded turkeys since 1995, exceeding most other states in the nation.

woods, but novice turkey callers can be just as successful as a pro when mimicking a lost turkey poult,” she said. “And once a flock is located, I remind hunters that turkeys are tipped off more by movement and a hunter’s outline than fluorescent orange.”

Overall, Casalena said she anticipates similar turkey-hunter success rates to last year, when about 8 to 10 percent of hunters were successful. Last year’s success rate was a slight decrease from the previous three years. Hunter success was as high as 21 percent in 2001, a year with excellent recruitment, and as low as 4 percent in 1979.

Casalena said spring-season harvests (including harvests from the special turkey license that allows hunters to harvest a second bird) totaled 41,260, an increase from 2013 and also higher than

Shooters should show consideration for others waiting for an open bench. It is common, especially leading up to the bear and deer seasons, to find an adult teaching a youngster how to shoot, or to find someone having difficulty sightingin a rifle. Be patient in such circumstances. Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by someone 18 or older.

The Game Commission has completed lead remediation and safety upgrade projects at all public shooting ranges. Routine maintenance, including rebuilding target-line stations, cutting grass and other clean-up activities, often required the closure of ranges for several hours every month. More than $200,000 is spent annually on shooting range maintenance.

ALEXANDRIA, VA — At KeepAmericaFishing, our dedicated Government Affairs team is on the front lines, working to ensure our legislative leaders are keeping the best interests of the recreational fishing community in mind.

Some policy issues are national in scope, while others are very localized. But the one thing they all have in common — if they’re happening in one region of the country, they may happen in your neck of the woods next.

Top 5 Policy Issues: 1. Reauthorization for the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, which ensures that your fishing license fees go back to conservation efforts in your state.

2. Passage of the National Fish Habitat Conservation Act, which strengthens fish habitat restoration, conservation and protection projects.

3. Stopping the development of a nofish zone in Biscayne National Park.

4. Protecting the Bristol Bay, Alaska trout and salmon fishery from the threat of mine development.

5. Stopping the ban of soft baits in Maine.

Get involved — it’s easy! We’ll send you email alerts to inform you of policy issues, keep you up to date on progress, and recommend specific actions to take that will help protect your right to fish.

Click through to our Take Action pages and proceed with our suggested strategy.

With our automated website, it only takes a few moments.

Thank you for helping to build a stronger voice for the American recreational angler.

Sincerely, Liz Ogilvie, Director, KeepAmericaFishing Find KeepAmericaFishing online at: KeepAmericaFishing.org, on Instagram, Twitter and Google+. The phone number is: 703-519-9691.

Ranges From Page 11

A Letter from Keep America Fishing

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November 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

17

PHOTO SHOWCASE SPONSORED BY

Patrick Adkins 9-pt.

Columbiana County, OH

David Hrovatic 7-pt.

Columbiana County, OH

Chase Adams 135", 9-pt, 18.5" spread Mahoning County, OH

Rod Mayle 8-pt. buck, crossbow Columbiana County, OH

Hunter Jones 110 lb. mature doe, crossbow Trumbull County, OH

Send Us Your Photos

Brad Schuler 13-pt., 17-3/8" spread Mahoning County, OH

Matt Sheterom 14 point, bow Delaware 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

18

www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com

Ohio Valley Outdoors

Banner Year for Bear in PA Expected

HARRISBURG, PA — Recent years have been some of the best on record for Pennsylvania bear hunting, and one expert says there’s potential for that trend to continue.

The annual statewide bear seasons again are about to kick off.

Leading the way is the statewide archery bear season, which opens November 17. And after that five-day season comes to a close on Nov. 21, properly licensed hunters who still are in pursuit of a bear can participate in the four-day general season that opens Nov. 22, then runs from Nov. 24 to Nov. 26.

Extended opportunities to hunt bears during all or a portion of the deer-hunting seasons also exist in much of the state.

There’s been plenty of reason to get excited about bear hunting in recent years.

The 2013 harvest of 3,510 bears statewide represents the fifth-largest in

November 2014

state history, and continues a string of recent bear seasons taking their place in the record books.

Three of the five largest harvests have occurred in the last three years. Pennsylvania’s largest harvest on record – 4,350 bears – occurred in 2011, and the thirdlargest harvest – 3,632 bears – followed in 2012.

Mark Ternent, the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s bear biologist, said many of the elements required for another exceptional bear harvest in 2014 already are in place.

Statewide black bear populations are at record levels, Ternent said, with an estimated 18,000 bears living within the Keystone State.

Additionally, he said, the statewide acorn crop is markedly improved compared to last year.

What is described as a “bumper mast crop” is distributed throughout many ridges and valleys within bear country,

with core bear-hunting areas within Lycoming, Clinton and Centre counties seeing some of their heaviest mast crops in the past 10 years, according to field staff with the Game Commission’s Northcentral Region. Other areas of the state also are reporting excellent acorn crops.

Higher mast yields typically lead to better hunter success, Ternent said.

When plenty of food is available bears tend to stay more active during hunting seasons, rather than entering their dens early. They also tend to be more widely dispersed and travel less, which means that bears discovered during preseason scouting typically still can be found in the same area come hunting season.

Another important factor in the bear forecast is what so far has been an increase in the number of hunters purchasing bear licenses. Through the end of October, bear license sales were up by nearly 7 percent, compared to year-todate sales from a year ago.

With bear licenses remaining on sale

up until the night before the general season.

Ternent said that increased hunter participation typically leads to larger harvests and, in some cases, better hunter success.

Game Commission Executive Director R. Matthew Hough said perhaps no other hunting season in Pennsylvania is as rich with tradition as the annual statewide bear season. Hough said the fact a record number of bear licenses likely will be sold this year reinforces that point, and shows it’s no longer a secret that Pennsylvania provides some of the best bear-hunting opportunities out there.

Fifty-eight bears weighing 500 pounds or more, and nine weighing 600 pounds or more were taken during 2013.

The heaviest bear in the harvest, taken in Lackawanna County during the statewide general season, weighed an estimated 772 pounds. And the bear harvest was spread throughout 53 of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties in 2013.

November 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Gallia County Hunting Death Remains Unsolved

19

By Larry Claypool

GALLIA COUNTY, OH — A southern Ohio county sheriff is hoping the one-year anniversary of a local hunter’s death will stir the emotions of someone — other than the victim’s family — so the case can be solved. It was the opening day of deer gun season in Ohio (December 2, 2013) when 45-year-old Larry Bradley was found dead — in his treestand — from an apparent gunshot wound. To date no one involved in the death has stepped forward.

For Gallia County Sheriff Joe Browning it’s a very troubling case. Nearly three weeks after the shooting death of the former Navy war veteran authorities received an anonymous letter from someone claiming responsibility for the shooting. Basically confessing to the fatal shooting, the letter writer begged for forgiveness and said “I am not a bad man just a very scared and sorry man.”

Last year the sheriff’s department released only part of the anonymous letter in an attempt to have the person who penned the letter come forward. That didn’t happen. Now Sheriff Browning hopes raised emotions — as the anniversary of the accident draws near — will force someone to admit to being involved.

“We hope by re-releasing the letter, in its entirety, the person responsible for the shooting will come forward. We want to get the case information out to the public again,” said Sheriff Browning.

As seen in the attached letter, the person claiming responsibility for the shooting said he was hunting on a farm property where he did not have permission to be on. He was tracking a deer

Ohio Valley Outdoors Photo courtesy of Gallia County Sheriff’s Office

Ohio hunter Larry Bradley was found dead, in his treestand, from an apparent gunshot wound on opening day of gun season 2013.

he’d shot just after daybreak when he heard someone yelling. “It scared me so much cause I didn’t have permission to be there,” admitted the writer.

The person yelling in the woods could have been Bradley, who was shot in the back, about 18 feet up in his treestand.

Bradley was able to call his wife for help, but he didn’t tell her about being shot. He told her he just needed help.

When help arrived Bradley was dead.

The letter also said, “...this is eating at me like a cancer. Please tell the family I am sorry.”

The sheriff is asking for the public’s help in identifying the person or persons involved in the death of Bradley. Anyone with information regarding this case should call the Gallia County Sheriff’s office at 740-446-1221 or the Tip Line at 740-446-6555.

Ohio Valley Outdoors - Courtesy of Gallia County Sheriff’s Office

This letter, provided by the Gallia County Sheriff’s office, was received last December from an anonymous author about the tragic shooting death of Larry Bradley.

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