MOGADORE NEEDS POLICING - P. 7 Hunting the Pre-Rut Story inside page 5
Rainy Summer Provides Added Trout Fishing Opportunities OV Outdoor Times
Trite as it might be, the inspirational saying that suggests “making lemonade when life gives you lemons” can be applied to how this spring’s weather applies to the outdoors. By Jeff Knapp While the unrelent- Fishing Editor ing rain might not be beneficial to many things in nature – concerns about this year’s production of wild turkeys and ruffed grouse being an example – the added flows have certainly been favorable to early summer trout fishing. Typically, by this time of year many of the stocked trout streams in the area would be flowing low and warm. Not so this year. For the past month I’ve enjoyed excellent action on Buffalo Creek’s Delayed Harvest Area (Armstrong County, PA), with nary another soul around. I’ve heard anecdotal reports of Little Mahoning Creek having lots of trout, again with few anglers taking advantage. Last weekend I drove past Little Mahoning’s Fly Fishing Only project
EE!
Outdoor Times
(Indiana County, PA), and though I didn’t have time to fish it the water certainly looked inviting; plenty of flow and with just a touch of color. Only one car was parked along the road, despite it being a nice weekend day. Native brook trout streams have also profited from the added water. With the mountain streams running full, late last month my friend Art Hamley and I spent a pleasurable morning pursuing our state’s only native trout species. In four hours of fishing we brought about 16 trout to hand, and missed/lost about the same amount. Though most were of the five to six inch class typical of streambred brook trout in freestone streams, a couple of them were in the nine to 10 inch range. With rain in the forecast for the next two weeks, it’s appears there will be continued opportunities to catch trout through early to mid-summer. Here are a few tips that might be of help. One fly that might be overlooked for summer fishing is the single egg pattern, like the Bloodspot. Stocked trout, rainbows in particular, have shown a particular fondness for single eggs during my recent outings. When there’s plenty of water in the creek, I’ve fished the egg under a small Float Master strike indicator, making upstream casts with the intention of creating drag free drifts. During a couple outings when the water was normal to low – when the splashdown of a strike indicator might spook Turn To Trout Page 4
Ohio Valley
FR
July 2014
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Larry Claypool
Dale Black, President of Gamma Lines, of Oil City, PA, holds a nice crappie taken during the 2013 PA Crappie Camp on the Shenango River Lake. See a related story ‘Angling with the Best Line’ by Darl Black on Page 12.
INSIDE THIS MONTH
Ralph Scherder
16
Alan Probst
Structures in Pymy
Mogadore Reservoir Needs Policiing
Ohio Women’s Outdoor Adventure Launched
9
Jack Kiser
18 TU Launches
Tips for Understanding Soil
12
TroutBlitz
Angling with the Best Line
13
Darl Black
Four Tips for Picking the Best Boatyard
10 PA Game Commission Unveils GoHuntPA OUTDOOR CALENDAR
Ohio River Catfish Tournaments - July 26, Aug. 9 at Chester City Park marina, Chester, WV 26034. Sponsored by Chester-Newell Sportsmen Club. Entry $10 per fisherman. Begins 7 p.m. Saturday, ends 7 a.m. Sunday. Boundaries Pittsburgh, PA to Wheeling, WV. Contact Chaney’s Service Station in Chester or call Don at 304-387-3982. Catfish Tournaments at Hubbard Conservation Club - July 12, 26; Aug. 9, 23 (*new time 6:30-11:30 p.m.) $9 entry, 30% payout for 1st, 20% for 2nd. $4 for side pot, largest fish. Club located at: 1760 Wick-Campbell Road, Hubbard, OH 44425. For info. call Brian Radcliff at 330610-5802. Explore the Outdoors Day- Aug 9 (10 a.m.-4 p.m.) at Beaver Creek State Park. Sponsored by Columbiana County Conservation Partners and Friends of Beaver Creek State Park. For questions about the event email: fobcsp@gmail.com.
Ohio Valley
Whether guys want to admit it or not, it’s our better half that make most of the purchases around the household. It’s a fact of marriage. One area that might debunk this theory is with our hobbies — mostly with our By Larry Claypool hunting and fishing gear. Editor Yes firearms and fishing gear receipts are not to be left where the ‘boss’ can see them. Only in the past 10 years or so have women started to be more active in the outdoors. That has created a demand for ‘pink’ products. And in the past two years the supply has caught up with the demand. At least it would appear that way. In every retail outdoor shop there is now a PINK version of nearly every outdoor product; from guns, knives, bows, fishing rods and reels, seat covers, trinkets, camo patterns and many, many more. Yes, pink is here to stay. Mass marketers and manufacturers have made this possible — because of demand. Retailers say so, and so does their cash registers. One successful regional outdoor chain, Goschinski’s Fin, Feather and Fur Outfitters, says so too. “There’s a lot going on with women’s products right now,” said Jake Jacobs, key buyer for Fin, Feather and Fur of Ashland, OH. The Fin has four outdoor stores in Ohio (Ashland, Cleveland, Canton and Youngstown). “It got to the point where manufacturers were saying ‘gosh this segment is really growing’. They’ve finally done that (responded to the demand),” added Jacobs. “They now have women clothing, camo clothing, that fit. Ten to 15 years ago if a woman wanted to go hunting they’d had to
get guy’s outfits. They wanted more comfortable outdoor clothing, and they could do better in clothes that fit. The manufacturers paid attention,” said Jacobs. “And now women are looking for casual camo wear too.” The casual camo clothing and accessories have exploded too. Jacobs said in the past few years big manufacturers started putting pink camo into ‘every-day wear’ jackets. “Unbelievable sellers for us have been camo and pink fleece hoodies and soft shell rain proof jackets.” The big industry outdoor market has had some help along the way from more women ‘huntresses’ on television. From the ‘Lady Hoggers’ to Tiffany Lakosky to now Eva Shockey, who have all donned camo wear and gear that ‘fit a woman’. Whether it’s a pink bow, Under Armour camo compression shirt or camo night gown; these women have helped pave the way for an endless number of new products that feature pink and camo patterns. Eva Shockey (co-host of ‘Jim Shockey’s Outdoor Adventures’) proved that the success and impact of women in the outdoors is here to stay when she donned the cover of Field & Stream magazine recently (May 2014). She’s the first female to make the cover of that iconic publication. OVO Pro Staffer Jon Parsons said he appreciates the availability of more products for women in the outdoors. “Look at all of the women into the outdoors that are on Facebook. It’s like a major explosion! I welcome it greatly! My wife has been into it more and more lately after nearly 20 years of showing no interest. I think that her seeing a great amount of women joining the ranks shows her that it’s not only a man’s world,” said Parsons. Well said. Pink is in to stay, and so are women in the outdoors!
To Advertise CALL 330-385-2243 Publisher/Editor, Larry Claypool lclaypool@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
Outdoor Times July 2014
Supply and Demand: For Pink Products OV Outdoor Times
5 Pre-Rut Hunting with 14 Placing Helpful 7
July 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
2
Graphics Designer, Linda McKenzie lmckenzie@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
VOL. 6, NO. 07
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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Contributing Editors
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QUESTIONS, COMMENTS
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4 Trout From Page 1
fish – the egg worked well when fished upstream on a short line. Native brook trout (as well as wild rainbows where they are present) have a fondness for wild colors such as pink and salmon (sort of an orange/pink). Last season we did quite well on native brookies on a pink Woolly Bugger. The Green Weenie is another consistently productive pattern. Early this year my friend Shawn Iman tied me some Green Weenies in a pink pattern. I’ve fared well with them; in fact most of the brookies I caught on last Sunday’s trip came on the pink version. Split shot isn’t just for early spring fishing. I’ve found that native brookies can be reluctant to come to the surface, especially when the flows are up a bit. The addition of a small shot or two can significantly increase the numbers of strikes. Fly rods in the 7 to 7.5 foot range are ideal when fishing native brook trout streams. They aren’t overly cumbersome when traversing the woods. But are still
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
July 2014
Lake Erie Smallmouth Season
AKRON, OH — The season on smallmouth bass in Lake Erie recently opened (June 28). The “smallies” recently completed their spawning season, during which it is extremely important that the male smallmouth protect their nests from a variety of predators, and especially the exotic round goby. The bag limit on smallmouth bass in Lake Erie is five fish with a 14-inch minimum length requirement. For more information, call 1-800-WILDLIFE (945-3543) and request the FREE Lake Erie fishing guide. Smallmouth fishing opportunities abound just off the Cleveland shore during this time of year. View all of Ohio’s fishing regulations online at www.wildohio.gov.
Youth Fishing Ponds Open in Akron
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of Jeff Knapp
This summer’s rainy weather has provided good sport for trout, like this fine native brookie taken recently by the author.
long enough to make all the cast one needs on streams that average 10 to 15 feet wide. This year I’ve used a 3-weight 7 foot fiberglass
rod that I’ve over-lined with a 4 weight line. It’s proven to be an ideal rod for native brook trout fishing.
AKRON, OH — Occupying the former Akron State Fish Hatchery grounds, the District Three youth fishing ponds are open each Saturday and Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Youths 15 and under can fish from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at no cost. Bait, equipment, and assistance are also provided for free, thanks to funding from the Sportfish Restoration Act and fishing license sales. All youngsters must be accompanied by an adult. Call Wildlife District Three at 330-644-2293 for more information or read more online at www.wildohio.gov.
July 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Pre-Rut Hunting with Alan Probst OV Outdoor Times
Any time you get the opportunity to talk to an expert in the hunting industry, take advantage of it. These guys are professionals and have a wealth of experiences and tips to share, and most of them are By Ralph Scherder happy to talk to you. Hunting Editor After all, they have the same passion for hunting that you do. Pennsylvania native Alan Probst is one of those guys. Probst was a biochemistry fisheries science major in college before embarking on a 10-year professional baseball career with the Houston Astros, Toronto Blue Jays, and New York Mets. After retiring from baseball, Probst bought a broadcastquality video camera and started his own production company, Alan Probst, Inc. He has since produced several outdoor television programs, including “All Outdoors TV,” which has aired on multiple networks and in millions of households
across the country for a number of years. Recently I had the pleasure of talking to Probst about strategies for hunting the pre-rut. Scherder: When hunting early season whitetails, during the pre-rut, what sort of locations do you look for when you go in to set up your stands or when you’re doing your scouting? Probst: Well, pre-rut is exactly what it says. It’s pre-rut. Bucks or does are going to be continuing the pattern they’ve been using pretty much all year. If you’re on a good trail, and you’re on a good trail from the feeding to the bedding area, you’re going to see deer. During the rut, all that goes out the door. Bucks are looking for does. They’re running vertical on trails trying to cross as many trails as they can to try and catch as many hot does as they can. During pre-rut, work the areas that the deer have been accustomed to for basically the better part of the year. Scherder: Are there preferred food sources that you focus on? Probst: The food source is going to change year to year. Pay attention to the
5
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of Ralph Scherder
If you’re on a good trail, and you’re on a good trail from the feeding to the bedding area, you’re going to see deer. woods. Some years there’s a great acorn crop while some years it’s very sparse. I’ve found that a great acorn crop makes the hunter’s job harder because there is so much food that deer become hard to pattern. It’s much easier in years where there’s not a good acorn crop or berry crop, depending on what you’re hunting, but you just have to scout and
find out where the deer are feeding. If there’s a lot of food, you really have to narrow the deer down to a bottleneck or where a couple trails come together. If there’s not a lot of food, hunt those food sources that you know are there. Scherder: Do you prefer to hunt an area, or do you prefer to hunt a specific Turn To Pre-Rut Page 6
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Pre-Rut From Page 5
buck? Probst: I prefer to hunt an area. I’m not an antler hunter. I have no problem on my TV shows harvesting a scraggly six-point. I hunt because I like to eat the animals. I know there are a lot of people who like to eat the animals, but I think the craze over the past 10 years has been all about huge bucks to the point they make it sound like if you’re not shooting only mature animals, then you’re not worthy. That’s just not the case. The average person isn’t going out and seeing 130, 140, 150-class deer every day. Now, if there’s a big buck in that area, yes, I may let that little buck go by to try and get that big buck. But I’m not in it for the wall-hanger. Scherder: Early in the season during the pre-rut, it seems like big bucks, and bucks in general, have a tendency to disappear. All summer long you see them out in the fields, and the next thing you know, when hunting season comes, they’re not there. Is there any way to go about reversing that? Is it hunting pressure that drives them in, or is it just that sixth sense that hunting season is here and it’s time to head for cover? Probst: I think it’s a combination of a lot of factors, including human traffic. You’ve got dove season, grouse season, and squirrel season – all of them usually come in before or during archery season. If you’ve got a big buck, he’s probably four-and-a-half, five-and-a-half-years old. He’s been conditioned to realize that, hey, there are going to be some people in the woods coming after me. The more human scent in the woods, the more bucks are going to change pattern. So many hunters wait until last minute to scout and hang stands. They walk every trail in the woods looking for a good spot. What happens? Eventually deer stop walking those trails and change their patterns. That’s why I do most of my scouting and setting up stands a month or two before the season. Then I
July 2014
get out of there and let the deer get back to their normal patterns. Scherder: When scouting, do you take as much care about your scent as you do when actually hunting? Probst: I don’t worry about scent a month and a half, two months before the season. If I’m traveling out of state and the only opportunity I have to hang stands is a few days before the season, then absolutely. Scherder: What are some of the strategies that you use during the early fall? What time of day do you like to hunt? Do you stay on stand all day long? Probst: The only time I’m really going to stay in the stand all day is during the rut. I think if you hunt three hours in the morning and three hours right before dark, that’s when you’re going to see most of the animals. Anybody who’s spent a lot of time in the woods – deer hunting, bear hunting, squirrel hunting, whatever — you see most of your animals a half hour to an hour after daybreak and that last half-hour before dark. That’s when the woods come alive. That’s peak time. The only time I wait it out all day is during the peak of the rut when bucks are moving all day. However, if you’re in a stand, and you’re seeing deer, you’d be insane to get out of your stand, even during the pre-rut. Scherder: I’ve known hunters who will use doe-in-heat lures all season long. Do you use scents such as Tink’s 69 early in the season? Probst: I don’t have a problem with putting Tink’s 69 out early in the season. There are a number of good scents on the market specifically formulated for early season, as well. Always use the recommended dosages that are on the bottles. If it says one or two drops, use one or two drops. Don’t use half an ounce. That’s a mistake that a lot of hunters make. They think the more scent in the area, the better they will work. Sometimes less is more.
Applications Set for WV Antlerless Deer Limited Areas
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — Applications for the 2014 Antlerless Deer Season are available at West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) district offices and the DNR Elkins and South Charleston offices. These applications also may be downloaded from the DNR’s Web page at www.wvdnr.gov. Eleven wildlife management areas (WMAs) and eight counties or portions thereof will have a limited number of
Class N licenses for resident and Class NN licenses for nonresident antlerless deer hunting Oct. 23-25 on private land only, and Nov. 24 through Dec. 6, Dec. 18-20 and Dec. 29-31 on private and public land. Applications must be received by the DNR before the close of business Aug. 15, 2014. For complete information on antlerless deer season dates and bag limits go online at www.wvdnr.gov.
July 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Mogadore Reservoir Needs Policing
By Jack Kiser
If there is anything more disgusting or disappointing than the current situation at Mogadore Reservoir, I don’t know quite what it would be. While Brad Ashburn and Jeff Swanson’s crew at the ‘Route 43 Boathouse’ are doing such an encouraging job of tending to and policing the limited area for their boat rentals and other needs, the rest of the Reservoir’s shorelines and common areas have suffered horribly amidst the City of Akron’s essential retreat from policing or overseeing the integrity and safety of this storied fishery and recreational hot spot. On my recent fishing forays I’ve noted garbage everywhere, fires on shores left smoldering, bags of trash hung from trees, ATV enthusiasts doing their very best to destroy area parking lots and hiking trails, and the total absence of trash receptacles of any kind, secured or otherwise. All of this carnage has occurred for one essential reason: the word is out that there is no policing force — of any kind — any longer dedicated to the reservoir and it’s adjacent areas. Scofflaws and other idiots talk too, you know. Occasional visits by the Division of Wildlife boat hardly qualifies as anything for such people to be worried about. The disheartening absence of
trash receptacles only provides unnecessary ammunition to the bad guys. The uncaring need no additional rationale. The feeble reply that such receptacles only “get thrown in the water” only reinforces the Catch-22 situation. If a policing force was in evidence, such behavior would be hampered, and why not install containers that are secured to trees or other structures? Ostensibly because someone would have to be engaged to occasionally empty them, and clearly Akron is in no mood for that. Jeff Morgan at Mogadore Bait & Tackle expressed his concern to the powers that be over many of the same concerns articulated above, especially concerning the Lansinger Road area near his popular store. The response he received said it all: “We’re aware of your concerns and the closing of Lansinger ramp and access is under consideration.” That’s what we’re up against and it’s time to fight back in what ever way we can. I’d like those concerned to call into our Fox Sports “Destination: Outdoors” radio show with any insights or suggestions you may have. (Calls are taken each Monday evening live on WARF-1350 AM, from 6-7 p.m. at 866-372-1350). Co-host Steve Jones and I are Field High alums and feel a deep kinship to a place Turn To Mogadore Page 8
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Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Jack Kiser
This beauty of a bass was taken a few years ago at the Mogadore Reservoir.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
MOGADORE RESERVOIR, Portage County, Ohio
LOCATION Mogadore Reservoir is located in southwestern Portage County, 3 miles east of Akron and 6 miles south of Kent on SR 43, 1 mile south of U.S. Route 224. HISTORY AND DESCRIPTION Mogadore Reservoir is owned and operated by the city of Akron. This reservoir was constructed in 1939, within the valley of the Little Cuyahoga River. The primary purpose of constructing this reservoir was to provide untreated water to the industries that were located downstream from the reservoir, as well as to afford flood protection to the Little Cuyahoga River Valley. The reservoir has a water surface of 1,104 acres. The maximum depth of Mogadore Reservoir is 24 feet. Mogadore Reservoir is not part of the domestic water supply for the city of Akron. Boats are allowed on Mogadore Reservoir, but they must be propelled by electric motors only. The fish populations are managed by the Ohio Division of Wildlife. FISHES OF INTEREST TO ANGLERS Fish species that are found in Mogadore Reservoir include largemouth bass, redear sunfish, bluegill, black and white crappie, yellow perch, channel catfish, and brown bullhead. METHODS OF FISHING AND BEST FISHING SITES Mogadore Reservoir provides excellent fishing throughout the year. Fishing from shore is somewhat limited, but the entire reservoir is available for boat fishing. Redear and bluegill sunfish are also caught at this time on worms and flies tipped with maggots. Crappie are taken on live minnows and jigs, particularly in the stumpy areas of the reservoir. Brown bullhead and channel catfish are caught throughout the lake on worms and chicken liver. Yellow perch can be taken on minnows or worms. Ice fishing is very popular at this reservoir.
Mogadore From Page 7
that has provided so many great memories and is now under attack without any defense mechanism. In the meantime, folks, those cell phones so comically overused and frivolously utilized can
July 2014
be very handy for reporting not only poachers but also litterers, environmental abusers and other scofflaws. No matter your level of righteous anger, don’t confront them yourself. This is a sadly old story that needs revisited. Now! NOTE: See a map of the Mogadore Reservoir above.
July 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Tips for Understanding Your Soil Sample
By Austin Delano, Mossy Oak GameKeepers
Fertilizer and lime recommendations can be confusing. All the different numbers and suggestions can really make it difficult to understand what your soil and crop needs to perform its best. Let's simplify things with a few quick tips to understanding your soil sample. 1. Soil pH is the first thing you need to get right. Although some crops are more tolerant of acidic soils than others, your plot will perform best with a pH of 6.57.0. Lime is relatively inexpensive and is the key to successful plots. For perspective a plot with a pH of 5.5 is 100 times more acidic than one at 6.5. Over 50% of fertilizer added to a plot with a 5.5 pH is wasted because it is not able to be used by the plants. One to two tons per acre of ag lime is very common to get your plots where they need to be. 2. Remember that the 3 numbers on bagged fertilizer (N-P-K) are based off
of 100 lbs, not 50. In a 50 lb bag of 1313-13, there are 6.5 lbs or units each of actual nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. If your sample says you need 40 lbs each of N-P-K, you would need 350 lbs per acre of 13-13-13. This would give you 45.5 lbs of N-P-K. 3. An advanced soil test is needed to get current levels of micro nutrients like copper, iron, zinc, boron, etc. These micros are usually not present in bagged fertilizer. Although they are needed in very small amounts in comparison to the macro's (N-P-K), it can be worthwhile to do an advanced sample every 3-4 years and keep the micro's up to date. 4. As a general rule of thumb, cereal grains, corn, and brassicas are nitrogen lovers. Legumes such as clovers, peas, beans, or alfalfa fix their own nitrogen from the atmosphere and need very little at planting time. For example, once established, clover can be fertilized with a common 0-20-20. At planting time, a low nitrogen blend like 5-20-20 can be
Baked Goose Breast with Merlot Glaze • Prep Time: 10 min. • Cook Time: 1 hr 10 mins. • Ready In: 1 hr 20 mins. • Yields: 25
Course: Appetizer Skill Level: Easy Serve this delicious appetizer warm or cold on a slice of French Bread with cream cheese and a dollop of Merlot Fine Wine Jelly on top. 6 goose breasts
2 Valencia oranges
2 tbs. Venison Burger and Steak Seasoning Rub Sportsman's Table Item #CY3626 6 oz. Merlot Fine Wine Jelly Sportsman's Table Item #MWJ01
Directions:
Place goose breast in baking dish. Squeeze orange juice over fillets. Sprinkle Venison Burger and Steak Seasoning and Rub on both sides of fillets. Cover and bake 1 hour at 350 degrees. Uncover and brush with Merlot Fine Wine Jelly. Bake 10 more minutes. Remove and slice thinly across the grain.
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used to give the young clover a small dose of nitrogen while it develops a root system and begins to affix its own from the air. On the other end of the spectrum, corn can use 100-200 lbs of nitrogen per acre for maximum yield. Keep in mind if your soil sample comes back with a pretty acidic reading like 4.5-5.5 that your plot is not a lost cause. A couple of tons of lime to the acre can really change how successful your food plot plantings are. Lime is relatively cheap but is often the most overlooked tool to growing good crops for your wildlife. Continuing to spread fertilizer on highly acidic soils can be counterproductive and frankly somewhat a waste of good money. I would much rather see a guy with pH levels below 6.0 spend some of his food plot budget on lime rather than fertilizer. The time it takes for the lime to begin to breakdown and start to neutralize the acidity on your soil can be dependent on several factors. One of these is how fine the lime has been screened at the quarry. Lime that is screened through a very fine mesh screen is more of a powder consistency and will begin to breakdown in the soil quicker than a more coarse lime screened through a larger screen. Once you have added lime to a plot according
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Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of Mossy Oak
to a soil test, it could be 2-5 years before you need to spread more. The amount of time in between applications can vary with different soil types, rainfall amounts, and other factors. Obviously soils that are very sandy will typically leach lime and other nutrients quicker through the root zone than heavier soils with a higher clay content. Be sure to contact your local farm supply or co-op to spread your lime for you. Would you like to learn more about improving your hunting and get discounts on the products you need? Learn from the experts by joining the new Mossy Oak GameKeepers Club at www.gamekeepersclub.com. or call 844-256-4645.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
PA Game Commission Unveils GoHuntPA
SHIPPENSBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Game Commission is offering a sneak peek into its new initiative called GoHuntPA. The Game Commission hired Harrisburg-based ad agency Top Flight Media (TFM) to help develop the campaign. This is the first time that the Game Commission has hired an agency to carry out a strategic communications campaign such as this one. GoHuntPA is a customer-centric, research-anchored initiative that includes a microsite, TV, radio, print & billboard ads, and trade show banners, in addition to video production. Many elements of the campaign will feature Augmented Reality (AR). All campaign elements will drive hunters to a streamlined, online resource GoHuntPA.org. GoHuntPA.org is a website for hunters, by hunters. There, hunters will learn more about hunting opportunities near them, what’s in season, how to become a better hunter, where to conveniently buy a hunting license, and more. GoHuntPA will address the three main motivations for hunting; hunting for food, hunting with family and friends, and hunting for the peace and serenity
that the outdoors provides. The Pennsylvania Game Commission has uncovered that there are many reasons why hunters lapse and don’t renew their license. These reasons include lack of free time, work and family obligations, and the perception that there isn’t enough land to hunt on. The GoHuntPA initiative will help alleviate those concerns and put hunting back on the to-do list of a significant percentage of Pennsylvanians who consider themselves a hunter, but don’t go hunting on a regular basis. The Game Commission is confident that GoHuntPA is one strategy that will help reach its goal of 1,000,000 licensed hunters afield by 2018.
New Hunting Permit Due to CWD Response
HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Game Commission is enlisting assistance from hunters in an effort to slow the spread of chronic wasting disease. The Game Commission has developed a permit that can be used to hunt antlerless deer, but can be used only within the boundaries of what is known as Disease Management Area 2 – the lone area of the state where chronic wasting disease has been detected in free-ranging deer. A total of 13,000 permits will be made available with the intention of reducing the deer population by one deer per square mile in DMA 2. Responding to a need identified by the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners, the permits seek to focus hunting pressure inside the Disease Management Area (DMA), where deer numbers must be kept in check to slow the potential spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD). At the same time, the permit system enables the Game Commission to avoid a reduction in the deer herd in the area surrounding DMA 2 – where CWD has not been detected. DMA 2 includes parts of Bedford, Blair, Huntingdon, Cambria and Fulton
July 2014
counties. The DMA lies within Wildlife Management Units 4A, 4D and 2C (WMUs 4A, 4D and 2C). There are some differences between the application process for a DMA 2 permit and that for an antlerless license. Only residents and nonresidents ages 12 and older with valid general hunting licenses may apply for permits. Participants in Mentored Youth and Mentored Adult hunting programs are ineligible to make application, and the permits cannot be transferred to participants in those programs. Each permit costs $6.70, and payments must be made by credit card, or check or money order made payable to the “Pennsylvania Game Commission.” Applications for DMA 2 permits will be accepted in two ways – electronically through the Game Commission’s Outdoor Shop, or by mail. The Outdoor Shop can be accessed at www.theoutdoorshop.state.pa.us. A p plications will be accepted beginning July 14. Each eligible applicant may submit one application during this first round, which lasts three weeks.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Angling with the Best Line
By Darl Black NW PA Fishing Report
Even though nylon monofilament, fluorocarbon and braided/fused line (superline) have shared the line market for many years, many questions arise as to what is the best line to use. Some anglers get hooked on a specific type of line and believe it can be used for situations. I disagree. I use all three based on the presentation and type of tackle I am using. There are a number of critical differences between these three lines, but I’m basically looking at four characteristics when I make my decision which to use: (1) manageability (how it lies on the spool and does it cast without tangling); (2) does it float or sink; (3) break strength; and (4) how much stretch does it have. The stretch factor is related to the angler’s ability to free a snagged lure; braid does not stretch, thus cannot be “sling-shot” free from a snag – therefore
I refrain from using braid around hard cover, but rely on it for soft cover, i.e. vegetation. Nylon monofilament (i.e. nylon copolymer line and Gamma Polyflex) is more manageable than fluorocarbon thereby making nylon monofilament handles much better on small spool spinning reels. Because Gamma Polyflex is the strongest nylon line I have ever used, I rely on it in 4-pound test for the majority of my panfishing. And because nylon line floats, I use it exclusively with topwater baits – usually 10-pound Gamma Polyflex on a casting outfit. Gamma Edge fluorocarbon is my go to line on spinning and casting equipment for any type of jig or rigging situation which requires baits to stay down near the bottom. For example, I use 6pound Gamma Edge on my tube jig rod, and never worry about breaking off a fish. Action-tail grubs/swimbaits, worms, dropshotting, blades and jigging spoons are lures I use on Edge. Braid/fused no-stretch “superline”
will be found on only a three of my outfits. First, my “frog rod” for fishing hollow-body frogs and swimming toad lures through matted vegetation. I also have a rod combo devoted to buzzbaits which has superline on it. Finally, I have a medium power spinning rod for drifting stick worms and soft jerkbaits in river currents, and for fishing wackyrigged worms. In drifting baits in current or fishing slow sinking baits on slack line, the sensitivity and no-stretch characteristics of Gamma Torque braided line is just what is needed. I trust this provides you some insight as to why no single line can do everything. Gamma Lines, of Oil City, PA, makes a full range of fishing line: fluorocarbon (Edge, Touch and FC Leader), monofilament (Polyflex-copolymer) and Braid (Torque). “Our pro-staff has taken advantage of that with extremely strong showing,” says Gamma Lines owner Dale Black.
July 2014
Check out Gamma online at: www.gammafishing.com. Darl Black writes the Northwest PA Fishing Report bi-monthly during the summer season. Find the report on the OVO website: www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com and PaGreatLakes.com. Black can be reached at: darlblack@windstream.net. The fishing report is sponsored by: PA Great Lakes Region tourism; Black Knight Industries (home of Gamma Lines) and Wiegel Brothers Marine.
Enjoy the outdoors....Take a kid hunting g or fishing Join your local l l Sportsman’s S ’ Club, C b You’ll Cl Y ’l’ll ll be b glad you did!
July 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Four Tips for Picking the Best Boatyard
ALEXANDRIA, VA — While boatyards are busy, summer may be a better time to have repair work done on the boat. Why? The typical boatyard and shop warranty on labor is 90 days, giving boaters the time necessary to use the boat and ensure a correct repair. But where does a boater go to get repairs done right? Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) has some tips: • Use what your eyes are telling you. Sometimes it’s the little things that give you a sign that the yard you are entering isn’t the best. One BoatUS member took his boat to a repair facility and thought that the abundance of boats in the lot meant that the boatyard was popular. It wasn’t until after the yard started giving odd excuses for delays and then made him pay for hundreds of dollars of ineffective engine repairs before releasing the boat, did the member notice that few, if any, of the boats in the lot had been moved in years. • All recommendations aren’t the same. Online recommendations are a
mish-mash of good and bad: more reliable ones have real names attached and specific details in postings. Fellow boaters are likely the best folks to recommend a yard, but go one step further — be sure that the repairs are similar to what you need. Another option is to ask a marine surveyor. These professionals are often knowledgeable about the quality of work in local repair yards, as long as they’re impartial and unaffiliated with any shop or boatyard. Look for a boat surveyor having SAMS or NAMS credentials as these surveyor associations require their members to be independent. Another good sign to see is a shop that follows American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) guidelines for repairs, which ensures that crucial safety standards are met. ABYC technicians also get specialized certification in a range of boat systems. • Dealerships may offer more, but don’t write off independents. There are certain benefits to taking an out-of-warranty boat or motor to a dealership, with the best training and equipment being at
Breeding Duck Numbers up 8%
MEMPHIS, TN — The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently released its report on 2014 Trends in Duck Breeding Populations, based on surveys conducted in May and early June. Total populations were estimated at 49.2 million breeding ducks in the surveyed area. This estimate represents an 8-percent increase from last year’s estimate of 45.6 million birds, and is 43 percent higher than the 19552013 long-term average. This continues a three-year trend of exceptional water conditions and population numbers for many species. “It looks like another good waterfowl breeding year for a good portion of the prairies and the boreal forest,” said DU CEO Dale Hall. “Precipitation in the form of snow and rain has provided sufficient water to fill important wetlands in key breeding habitats. We hope this will result in good production and another great flight of birds migrating in the fall.” The main determining factor for duck breeding success is wetland and upland habitat conditions in the key breeding
landscapes of the prairies and the boreal forest. Conditions observed across the U.S. and Canadian survey areas during the 2014 breeding population survey were improved or similar to last year. Total pond counts for the U.S. and Canada combined showed 7.2 million ponds, which is similar to the 2013 estimate and 40 percent above the long-term average. The spring surveys provide the scientific basis for many management programs across the continent, including hunting season dates and bag limits. The four flyway councils and the US Fish and Wildlife Service Regulations Committee will meet in late July to recommend the season structure and bag limits for 2014-15. Individual states will make their specific selections within a federal framework of season length, bag limit and dates. Hunters should check the rules in their states for final dates. View all the data and get a species-byspecies breakdown at www.ducks.org/DuckNumbers.
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the top of the list. Dealerships also enjoy better parts connections. On the other hand, most well established independent repair facilities also produce high quality work — especially those run by former or current factory-trained technicians. And unlike a dealership, they must compete on repair business alone and their prices are usually lower. • Look for shops that specialize. Boats vary in type, size and complexity and so do repair facilities. Don’t bring a 34-foot trawler for repairs to a shop that mostly works on trailer boats, and don’t expect the guy living in a van down by the river to fix your high-tech outboard. • “Always check around first before doing business,” said BoatUS Director of Consumer Affairs Charles Fort. “Many boaters only have the summer to enjoy their boats, so any problems could lead to a premature end of the boating season.” About BoatUS: Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) is the nation’s leading advocate for recreational boaters
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of BoatUS
How can you tell if a boatyard is good to work with? BoatUS offers some tips that should help.
providing its over half-million members with government representation, services such as 24-hour dispatch, on water boat towing as well as roadside assistance for boat trailers and tow vehicles. The member-funded BoatUS Foundation is a national leader promoting safe, clean and responsible boating and offers range of boating safety courses — including 33 free state courses — that can be found at BoatUS.org/courses.
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July 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Placing Helpful Structures in Pymy
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ESPYVILLE, PA — On a bright and sunny day, most wildlife enthusiasts can be found behind a pair of binoculars looking for rare songbirds, on the front of a head boat reeling up some walleye, or even out in the field prepping their food plots for the fall. For some wildlife professionals, however, days like this present excellent opportunities to improve the natural resources that benefit everyone. On days like this, work is expected, but teamwork is the only way to achieve amazing results. Recently the ODNR Division of Wildlife teamed up with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, the Pymatuning Lake Association, Ohio State Parks, and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to place structure into Ohio’s largest inland lake — Pymatuning Reservoir in Ashtabula County. Wooden cribs, called Porcupine Juniors were placed throughout the North end of the lake, while rock reefs were placed in the southern end. “All of the state agencies are determined to make fishing better on Pymatuning,”
said Matt Wolfe, fisheries biologist who oversees this project for the Division of Wildlife. “But none of this would have been possible without the tremendous support that we received from volunteers who helped us construct and place the structures,” added Wolfe. Structure locations are as follows: 130 Porcupine Jr. cribs in 7 – 8 feet of water- West of Clark island N 41 o 39’ 41.1” / W 80 o 29’ 39.2” to N 41 o 39’ 38.9” / W 80 o 29’ 37.3” 20 Porcupine Jr. cribs in 7 – 8 feet of water- North of the old Tuttle Campground N 41 o 38’ 42.8” / W 80 o 29’ 11.9” to N 41 o 38’ 41.9” / W 80 o 29’ 11.7” Rock reefs located by Bay 41 o 6 feet of water- N 41 o 31’ 59.3” / W 80 o 30’ 56.2” o 6 feet of water- N 41 o 32’ 8.6” / W 80 o 30’ 48.5” o 3 – 4 feet of water- N 41 o 31’ 55.1” / W 80 o 30’ 58.7” The map datum on your GPS unit should be set at NAD 83 to find the structures. The coordinates provided are
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Ohio Valley Outdoors - Photo courtesy of ODNR
A ODNR boat works to place a structure into Pymatuning Reservoir.
in degrees, minutes, and seconds. Please be aware of the reciprocal fishing regulations that are in effect on Pymatuning. The goal of this project is to introduce structures into the waters of Northeastern Ohio in order to recruit the next generation of anglers and retain the anglers who already enjoy the sport of fishing.
A downloadable Google Earth file containing all of the structure placements throughout Northeast Ohio is available by contacting the Wildlife District Three office. For all other inquiries, please contact the Wildlife District Three office in Akron at 330-644-2293.
New Officer Assigned to Trumbull County, OH
TRUMBULL COUNTY, OH — Martin E. Cisine, 34, of Hubbard, OH has been assigned as a new state wildlife officer in Trumbull County, OH. Officer Cisine is one of 16 new wildlife officer cadets who have been undergoing extensive training and were sworn in as commissioned state wildlife officers during ceremonies July 3 in Columbus. He began his new duties on July 4. Following completion of the seventeen-week Ohio Peace Officer Basic Training course, the cadets had eight weeks of specialized wildlife officer training by the Division of Wildlife. In addition to wildlife law enforcement procedures and agency policies, the cadets received training in areas of wildlife and fisheries management, communications, outdoor education, ATV operation, hunter safety, and advanced firearms and self-defense topics. As a state wildlife officer, Cisine will have statewide jurisdiction to enforce wildlife regulations, investigate allegations of waterway pollution, protect state property, and make arrests. He will also conduct educational programs, perform
Ohio Valley Outdoors -
Officer Martin Cisine
fish and wildlife management duties, and advise landowners on dealing with wildlife. Wildlife officers serve an important role as a point of contact with law enforcement and other agencies on topics of mutual interest, providing assistance and expertise. Cisine is a 1998 graduate of Ursuline High School in Trumbull County. In 2002, he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Wheeling Jesuit University. In 2010, Cisine also received an Associate of Applied Science degree in Wildlife Management from Hocking College.
July 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Electricity Restored at Tomlinson Run State Park
NEW MANCHESTER, WV — Tomlinson Run State Park campground has electricity again. The power outage that occurred in mid-April has been resolved. Equipment and power lines repairs were completed June 22, according to Sam Morris, park superintendent. “We appreciate the support and patience that our camping guests have exhibited as work progressed<’ Morris said. “It is good to have understanding patrons. We look forward to great summer and fall camping conditions.” A power surge in mid-April left the entire campground without electricity, although power to all other facilities at Tomlinson Run State Park was not affected. The 54-site campground at Tomlinson Run features a convenience store, dump station, two bathhouses, hot showers and laundry facilities. All sites are suitable for tent or trailer and feature picnic tables and grills; while 39 sites feature electrical hookups. The campground opened April 1 and is open through October 31 each year. The park also has
lake fishing, swimming with waterslide, canoe and kayaking, and hiking trails. Disc golf and camping attract vacationers that prefer outdoor settings and the creature comforts of a tent, yurt, camper cabin, or RV. Tomlinson Run State Park is located near New Manchester in Hancock County. Visit www.tomlinsonrunsp.com or call 304-564-3651.
COLUMBUS, OH — This is the season for young bald eagles to begin leaving their nests and live on their own. At 10 to 12 weeks old, young eagles leave the comfort of their nests and begin to learn to take care of themselves. By the time they are 17 weeks of age, the eaglets are independent and ready to begin migration. There is a high likelihood that the eagles hatched this year will soon return to Ohio to nest and raise their own young,
continuing the growth of Ohio’s eagle population. Eagles are no longer a State Endangered Species in Ohio but funding is still important to help ensure eagle populations continue to thrive. Funding for eagle management comes from the sale of bald eagle license plates, purchases of the Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp, and contributions to the ODNR Division of Wildlife’s Wildlife Diversity and Endangered Species Fund.
Ohio’s Smallmouth Bass Thriving
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COLUMBUS, OH — Smallmouth bass are native to Ohio and are found in every county of the state. This species thrives in streams with gravel or rock bottoms with a visible current, but also in many inland lakes. They can be differentiated from the very similar largemouth bass by looking at the mouth; when closed, the smallmouth’s mouth does not extend beyond the rear border of the eye. Smallmouth bass spawn in May and early June. Nests are built in gravel or hard bottom substrates in two to 20 feet of water. The female lays between 2,000 to 15,000 eggs. The male guards the nest and the fry for a short time. Young small-
mouth feed on zooplankton and midge larvae. Adults feed on aquatic insects, crayfish, and suitable sized fish. The average smallmouth bass weigh between one to two pounds and range from 12 to 15 inches in length. The state record smallmouth bass weighed nine pounds and eight ounces. In northeast Ohio, good lakes for smallmouth bass fishing include: Berlin Reservoir (state Route 224, north of Alliance); Pymatuning Lake (state Route 6, two miles east of Andover) and Little Beaver Creek (campground area off of state Route 7, south of Rogers). View maps and fishing tips at www.wildohio.gov.
COLUMBUS, OH — Black bear sightings are becoming more common in Ohio with an estimate of between 50 to 100 bears living year-round in the Buckeye State. Breeding usually occurs from June to mid-July, so the possibility of seeing a bear is highest during this time of year. Researchers rely partly on reports of
bear sightings from Ohio residents to help track the population. Wildlife biologists began keeping records in 1993, when only 25 bears were reported. Neighboring states have growing bear populations and it’s likely that black bears are moving into Ohio in search of new territory. Pennsylvania boasts a black bear population of 17,000.
Bears on the Move
Ohio Valley Outdoors Photo Courtesy of the WV Dept. of Commerce
Electricity has been restored to the Tomlinson Run State Park campground, including the yurts.
Bald Eagles on Their Own
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Ohio Women’s Outdoor Adventures Launched
COLUMBUS, OH — Register and come be a part of the inaugural Ohio Women’s Outdoor Adventures weekend. This new Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) sponsored event will blend boating and paddle sport skills with numerous outdoor education and athletic activities. “ODNR is eager to offer this new opportunity that encourages the women of Ohio to get out and experience a number of exciting outdoor and water activities,” said ODNR Director James Zehringer. “The Ohio Women’s Outdoor Adventures weekend provides women a weekend away where they can relax and enhance their outdoor recreational skills.” The weekend will take place Aug. 2224, at the newly remodeled Burr Oak State Park Lodge and Conference Center in the southeastern Ohio town of Glouster. Burr Oak State Park Lodge blends the modern conveniences found at resort accommodations with the wilderness spirit that surrounds its scenic location. The 2,593-acre park offers a stunning lake, wooded hills and valley farms.
Ohio Women’s Outdoor Adventures is open to all women, including girls 12 or older who are accompanied by a parent or guardian. The workshops focus on a variety of outdoor skills. Participants will have the opportunity to learn how to improve their skills in kayaks and canoes, operate and trailer a powerboat or try the latest watersport — stand-up paddleboarding. Other activities include archery, geocaching, fishing, outdoor photography, bird watching basics, tree trivia, jon boat handling and stream quality monitoring, as well as optional activities such as bonfires, night hikes, astronomy, evening canoe trips and a BB gun range. A registration fee of $195 per person covers all workshops, plus two nights of lodging (choose from resort lodge suites or cottages), five meals and snacks. The program is first-come, first-served and is limited to 80 participants. Registration ends Aug. 1, for the weekend program hosted by the ODNR Division of Watercraft. For more information, registration and a schedule of events, visit the event webpage at watercraft.ohiodnr.gov/owoa or
July 2014
contact Valerie Cox at 614-265-6652 or valerie.cox@dnr.state.oh.us. The ODNR Division of Watercraft is responsible for boating safety, education and law enforcement on all waters of the state. This statewide area includes the near-shore area along 451 miles of the Ohio River, approximately half the en-
tire surface area of Lake Erie, more than 605 inland lakes and more than 60,000 miles of inland streams, rivers and other waterways. 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.
LAKE COUNTY, OH — Marino A. Pellegrini, 23, of Canfield, OH has been assigned as a new state wildlife officer in Lake County, OH. Officer Pellegrini is one of 16 new wildlife officer cadets who went through extensive training and were sworn in as commissioned state wildlife officers during ceremonies July 3 in Columbus. He began his new duties on July 4. Following completion of the seventeen-week Ohio Peace Officer Basic Training course, the cadets had eight weeks of specialized wildlife officer training by the Division of Wildlife. In addition to wildlife law enforcement procedures and agency policies, the cadets received training in areas of wildlife and fisheries management, communications, outdoor education, ATV
operation, hunter safety, and advanced firearms and self-defense topics. As a state wildlife officer, Pellegrini will have statewide jurisdiction to enforce wildlife regulations, investigate allegations of waterway pollution, protect state property, and make arrests. He will also conduct educational programs, perform fish and wildlife management duties, and advise landowners on dealing with wildlife. Wildlife officers serve an important role as a point of contact with law enforcement and other agencies on topics of mutual interest, providing assistance and expertise. Pellegrini is a 2009 graduate of Canfield High School in Mahoning County. In 2013, he received an Associate degree in Criminal Justice from Youngstown State University.
New Officer Assigned to Lake County, OH
July 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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Ohio Valley Outdoors
TU Launches TroutBlitz
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Trout Unlimited recently launched TroutBlitz, a citizen-science initiative aimed at enlisting everyday anglers to help the organization catalog and map healthy populations of wild and native trout all across North America. And all anglers need to do is go fishing. “This is a great new effort for TU, and we’re all very excited to get everyday anglers involved in helping us identify populations of wild and native trout in North America,” said Jack Williams, TU’s senior scientist. “We’re asking all anglers-not just TU members-to be a part of TroutBlitz and use the simple interface to upload photos and locations to our project site. By sharing this information, anglers can help us identify healthy populations of native trout and help us understand where non-native trout have been introduced over the years.” The applications are virtually endless for TU and it will compliment many existing scientific efforts, Williams noted. Not only can TroutBlitz participants help TU identify native and wild trout populations by using the TroutBlitz interface, they can help the organ-
July 2014
www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
ization identify intact watersheds, important tracts of photo of it, simply save your observation. All anglers intact habitat and waters that could benefit from should remember to minimize the time fish are kept restoration work, reconnection efforts or even native out of the water if they are to be released. As incentive, TU has created a “leader board” for anfish reintroduction efforts. “The data could be very important on a number of glers who might be interested in cataloging several fronts,” Williams said. “Anglers can help us flesh out catches over the course of the summer. TU will anour understanding of native trout nounce prizes for anglers who save ranges across the continent, and the most observations and for they can help us better understand Organization invites all anglers those who catalog the most dithe proliferation of non-native to photograph and map their verse number of trout species and trout, as well. Additionally, we catches in the name of science subspecies. Prizes will include can use their help in locating prefree TU gift memberships, TU viously unknown populations of hats, decals and the chance to win rare native fish, like bull trout or grayling. And to help, other prizes provided by TU sponsors. all they need to do is go fishing.” “We hope this will be a fun and easy way for all anFor anglers, it’s simple to catalog their catch and up- glers to help TU make fishing better all across the conload a photo of the fish they’ve caught. Simply log into tinent,” Chris Hunt, TU’s communications director the TroutBlitz project interface and create a free iNat- said. “This data can be very useful, and the more anuralist.org account. Anglers who have been fishing glers we get to participate, the more we’ll be able to lately can start right away-just click the “add observa- do on behalf of all anglers in the years to come.” tions” link atop the page and start cataloging your reTrout Unlimited is the nation’s oldest and largest cent catches. More detailed information on how to do coldwater fisheries conservation organization dedithis, including some tips for taking high-quality photos cated to conserving, protecting and restoring North of the fish you catch, can be found in the TroutBlitz America’s trout and salmon and their watersheds. FolManual, or by watching this short video. Once you’ve low TU on Facebook and Twitter, and online at tu.org. named your catch, mapped its location and uploaded a
July 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Ohio Deer Benefit from CRP
COLUMBUS, OH — The most widely-used federal program that benefits wildlife is the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). Continuous CRP signups began in June, and landowners can enroll into the program at any time. Landowners can turn their farms into wildlife havens while receiving annual rental payments and up to a 90 percent cost-share to establish conservation practices. • CRP is administered by the USDA Farm Service Agency and provides incentives to farmers to plant natural vegetation and reduce soil erosion, prevent nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen from entering streams and lakes, and increase wildlife habitat. • Implementing CRP practices can make habitat beneficial to many wildlife species. One of the goals of CRP is to provide habitat for wildlife of local or regional concern, such as many groundnesting and grassland birds, or to restore sensitive ecosystems such as wetlands and riparian buffers. • The white-tailed deer is often an unintended beneficiary of CRP. Deer managers, deer hunters, and wildlife watchers can enroll acreage in CRP to
realize wildlife habitat goals. • Deer are often considered a forest species. However, Ohio’s premier biggame species does best in areas with a variety of habitat types, including many that landowners can create from options available through CRP. Habitat diversity is the key to deer management success. • The best way to ensure deer will stay in an area is to provide ample cover – places where deer feel secure. CRP makes an area attractive to deer and other wildlife year-round. CRP benefits for deer involve providing bedding cover through the use of native warmseason grasses and early successional vegetation. • CRP options such as tree plantings and pollinator habitat (wildflowers, legumes, and shrubs) help diversify the landscape, provide cover, and also provide food options for wildlife. Options such as windbreaks and riparian buffers provide deer and other wildlife species with travel corridors. Corridors connect larger patches of suitable habitat within a landscape dominated by row-crop agriculture. Deer are more likely to move through these corridors than across open fields, making
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them ideal for a future hunting stand. • ODNR Division of Wildlife biologists can provide technical guidance to
landowners interested in CRP. Go to wildohio.gov for more information about Ohio’s wildlife.
AKRON, OH — Are you fishing for something to do? Come join the ODNR Division of Wildlife staff on July 23, 2014 to learn more about one of the greatest perks of fishing: how to prepare a delicious fish dinner from your fresh catch. The workshop will cover details starting from stringer to dinner plate. Participants will get instruction on filleting and cooking techniques and an opportunity
to do some hands-on filleting. The workshop will be from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Wildlife District Three, 912 Portage Lakes Drive, Akron. Pre-registration is required as seating is limited. Call Ken Fry at 330-245-3030 to register by July 18. To learn more about wildlife-related recreation in Ohio visit www.wildohio.com.
COLUMBUS, OH — The Ohio DNR, Division of Wildlife offer hunters a variety of information about upcoming seasons and regulations. Adult, youth, and mobility impaired deer and waterfowl hunts are available throughout the state. Visit www.wildohio.gov for more information or call 1-800-WILDLIFE (945-3543). The application period is June 1- July 31 each year.
Also, hard copies of Ohio’s Hunting and Trapping Regulations (2014-15 season) are available at license outlets statewide, online at www.wildohio.gov, or by calling 1-800WILDLIFE (945-3543). Please remember that early migratory bird and waterfowl season dates are published in a separate publication and are not available until August.
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