OHIO TAXIDERMIST FOUND GUILTY - P.6
RIVER MONSTERS Story inside page 8
It’s Not About the Money
OV Outdoor Times
The 2015-2016 season has been a gut-check for trappers. For three years we enjoyed pretty good fur prices, topping out, for me, in 2013 when I averaged about $17 for raccoons from my By Ralph Scherder local fur buyer. That Hunting Editor year, my top graded raccoon fetched a whopping $30, which actually paled in comparison to reports from major auction houses such as North American Fur Auctions and Fur Harvesters of America. Higher prices brought an influx of new people to the sport, most of whom were just looking to make some quick money. Honestly, though, how much money could one expect to make with gas in the $3-4 per gallon range? Not to mention that quality lures sell for approximately $6 per ounce, and you could spend a small fortune getting set up with the right traps and equipment – I know this from personal experience because, in my lifetime, I have spent a small fortune on those things. Most years, if I can catch enough fur and sell it at a decent price, I can break even, and I’m more than okay
Outdoor Times January 2016
with that. Quite frankly, there are easier ways to make money than by trapping. Trapping is work, and there’s no way around it. If you want to catch a lot of fur, you have to be willing to bust your butt and put forth the effort. Also, trapping isn’t like hunting or fishing where you can go one day and not the next. Traps need checked on a daily basis, if not for the fact that the law says so, then at the very least because we trappers know it’s unethical not to. Trapping is a commitment, a way of life, and an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in nature and learn about animal behavior and habits. Last year, fur prices dropped drastically and many of the money-seekers found out the hard way that the fur market can be fickle. An increase in supply quickly overloaded the market. Demand dropped and so did prices. At a fur sale last March, I watched a guy grumble as a buyer offered him only $4 per raccoon. The trapper had about 20 raccoons but they were all smaller in size. Still, he refused the money and said he’d take them elsewhere. I’ll bet he wished he would’ve taken that $4 average, though, because only a few weeks later the bottom dropped out completely and raccoons that size were bringing only $1-2. Out of the 75 raccoons I sold at a local auction last year, 22 of them were XXXL or bigger. Another 18 were XXL and another 23 were XL. I had about a dozen in the large/medium category. All Turn To Money Page 4
Ohio Valley
FR EE!
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of Ralph Scherder
The author with a nice PA raccoon, trapped along the shores of the Shenango River Lake on opening day of the 2015-16 season.
INSIDE THIS MONTH
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
32K Acres of Land 5 Ohio Hunters Check 11 Acquired to Restore Elk
9,400 Deer in Two-Day Season
6 6
ODNR
Jeff Knapp
Handling Muskie 101
NRA Donates $50K to PA Organizations
12
Tips on Ice Fishing in Ohio
Ohio Taxidermist Found Guilty
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11
ODNR
PA Opens Registration for Archery Tourney
8
River Monsters, Myths & Destinations Capt. Scott Manning
10
Department of AG Lifts Bird Ban
OUTDOOR CALENDAR
Public Trap Shoot - Each Sunday (11-4 p.m.) and Wednesday (6-9 p.m.) at Columbiana County Fish and Game Association; 45716 Middle Beaver Rd, Lisbon, OH 44432. Visit website: columbianacountyfishandgame.com. Indoor 3-D Archery Shoots - Each Sunday through Feb. 28 at Wyandot Bowmen, 1039 Tope Road, New Cumberland, WV. Fee is $10. For info. call Don at 304-564-5110 or Doug at 304-564-3862. Indoor .22/Air Rifle Shooting - Range open to public each Weds. thru April 26, 2016. (6 p.m., Sun. 11 am.) and Indoor Pistol Shooting - each Fri. (7-10 p.m.) thru April 29, 2016. At Columbiana County Fish and Game Association; 45716 Middle Beaver Rd, Lisbon, OH 44432. Old Fashion Style Turkey Shoot - Each Sunday thru March 2016 at Beaver Creek Sportsman Club, 14480 Washingtonville Road, Washingtonville, OH. Field stock guns, .680 choke max., scopes permitted, meat and money rounds, $3 per round, 1 p.m. start time. For info. contact Tom Brunner 330692-6577 or email:tbrunner1020@gmail.com. *See more Calendar of Events on Page 14.
Ohio Valley
January 2016
www.greatamericanoutdoorshow.org. More locally the Northeast Ohio Sportsman Show, in Dalton, OH, is slated for Jan. 21-23. The expanded three-day event will be staged at the Buckeye Event Center, located at 624 Henry Street, Dalton, OH, along state Route 30 near Massillon. Deer antler scoring will be done, on Saturday only, by members of the Buckeye Big Buck Club. Admission is $10 for adults. Visit their website at: www.ohiosportsmanshow.com. The 57th Mid-American Boat Show, in Cleveland, is slated for the Jan. 14-18. That event will be held at the I-X Convention Center, near the Cleveland Airport. Admission is $13. Visit their website: www.clevelandboatshow.com. During the same weekend, and at the same location, (Jan. 15-17 at the I-X Center) the Cleveland Outdoor Adventure Show will feature archery trick artist Byron Ferguson, the Dock Dogs, Tim Miranda of Adventure Bowhunter, Tim Herald of Magnum TV and Dave Carraro of “Wicked Tuna”. That show will set you back $12 for adults. Parking is $10. See their website: www.eriepromotions.com. In southern Ohio the biggest outdoor show of the season is the Cincinnati Travel, Sports and Boat Show. That longtime event will be Jan. 15-17. It’s held at the Duke Energy Cincinnati Convention Center. Admission is: $12. Visit their website: www.cincinnatiboatshow.com. The same sponsors, Hart Productions, will host the Cincinnati Hunting and Fishing Show the following week (Jan. 20-24) at the Duke Energy Center. Cleveland Browns outdoorsman Joe Thomas will be featured (Jan. 23-24). Admission is: $12. See the above website for more information. Turn To Show Time Page 4
To Advertise CALL 330-385-2243 Publisher/Editor, Larry Claypool lclaypool@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
Outdoor Times January 2016
It’s Show Time
Welcome to a new year, and new outdoor seasons. You may not know it’s winter around here due to the wacky weather we’ve experienced so far; but nasty, cold and snowy days are looming. The By Larry Claypool weather plays such a Editor key part in our outdoor activities — cold or hot, wet or dry. Plan accordingly, or not. The strange weather does require some short-term planning. Some long-term planning can be done though, when it comes to attending one of the many annual outdoor sports shows in the region. There are many to choose from. Here’s the dirt on some of the most popular shows: The largest sports show in the eastern United States continues to be the Great American Outdoor Show in Harrisburg, PA (February 6-14). The nine-day event was snatched up (saved) by the National Rifle Association a few years ago. The show is held at the Farm Show Complex and Expo Center (2300 N Cameron St, Harrisburg, PA 17110). The GAOS event features over 1,100 exhibitors ranging from shooting manufacturers to outfitters to fishing boats and RVs, and archery to art, covering 650,000 square feet of exhibit hall space. There’s also country concerts, fundraising dinners, speaking events, archery competitions, celebrity appearances, seminars, demonstrations and more. Ohio Valley Outdoor Times contributing writer Bill Waugaman will be covering the event again this year. Admission is $13 for adults; $11 for seniors. Group discounts are available. Visit their website at: OV Outdoor Times
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Graphics Designer, Linda McKenzie lmckenzie@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
VOL. 8, NO. 1
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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January 2016
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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of my furs were fleshed and stretched and I averaged $7.50. I took the money and felt lucky to get even that much. This year I’m not feeling so lucky. Right now we’re in the middle of what could be classified a perfect storm. China, Russia, Greece, and Germany have always been the major buyers of American-produced wild fur. When it comes to raccoons, China and Russia, in particular, have dominated the market. Unfortunately, the economies in both of those countries have basically crashed. In Russia, the main culprit is low oil prices. Many factors have contributed to that drop – more production here in the U.S., for instance, has decreased our dependency on foreign oil, but there are also other political reasons involved, such as sanctions following the Ukraine crisis. As a result, it’s estimated that fur auction houses worldwide currently have an inventory of over one million unsold raccoon pelts. It’s going to take some time to get those pelts moved through the system and into the hands of consumers. In other words, we can expect a slow market for the foreseeable future. Things can turn around quickly,
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
though, just as they did four or five years ago. In 2011, I averaged only $7 for raccoons. Two years later, I averaged $17 and trappers were ecstatic over the upcoming “fur boom” that everyone claimed would rival that of the late 1970s and early 80s. Now, two years later, here we are facing a tough market again. There are things you can do to help. First of all, buy more fur garments as gifts – gloves, hats, coats, blankets. Fur garments can be very glamorous, not to mention they’re a renewable resource and the ultimate in terms of “going green.” And second, for all you trappers out there, harvest only the biggest and best animals and let the little ones go, especially raccoons. This year I plan to have a number of pelts tanned so I can give them away as gifts – kids, in particular, always seem happy to get a pelt for their wall. On the bright side, in terms of making money, lower gas prices here in the U.S. have made running the trapline more economical this year. Also, less competition means higher catch rates. This year, I’ve caught twice as many raccoons as two years ago in only half the time and effort. So, despite low fur prices, it all seems to balance out.
January 2016
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Larry Claypool
Last year, fur prices dropped drastically and many of the money-seekers found out the hard way that the fur market can be fickle. An increase in supply quickly overloaded the market.
For me, trapping has never been about the money anyway. I know guys who spend way more on the latest top-of-theline crossbow and hunting gear every year than I’ll ever spend on trapping supplies, yet I never hear anyone ever ask how much a whitetail is bringing
this year. And nobody ever asks how much a pheasant or squirrel is worth, either. That’s because those endeavors can’t be qualified with a price tag. Every outdoor adventure and experience is priceless if it’s your passion and you enjoy doing it. Trapping is no different.
AKRON, OH — State Wildlife Officer Field Supervisor Peter Novotny has been named the district manager for Wildlife District Three in Akron, Ohio, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Wildlife District Three serves 19 northeast Ohio counties. “Pete’s work experience has prepared him to meet the demands of this leadership role as a district manager for the ODNR Division of Wildlife,” said ODNR Division of Wildlife Assistant Chief Sue Howard. Novotny replaces Doug Miller who retired at the end of May. Novotny assumed his new position December 27. Novotny earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wittenberg University. A native of Cleveland and a 1990 graduate of St. Ignatius High School, Novotny started his career with ODNR Division of Wildlife in 1995 as a phone operator at the District One Headquarters in Columbus. After graduating from the Wildlife Officer Academy in 1996, Novotny served an At-large position in central Ohio until he was placed in Harrison County later that year. In 2002, he was promoted to Field Supervisor.
Three shows in western Pennsylvania will highlight February and early March. The Erie RV Show with Powersports and Camping added will be held Feb. 11-14 at the Bayfront Convention Center, in Erie, PA. The cost for adult tickets is $6. The same promoter will also host the Erie Sport & Travel Expo at Bayfront CC on March 4-6. Admission is $8. The 31th Annual Allegheny Sport, Travel and Outdoor Show will be held on Feb. 17-21 at the Monroeville (PA) Convention Center. Admission is $12. A Subway coupon, after Feb. 6, will save you $3. Also in March, mark your calendars for the Ohio Deer and Turkey Expo, held each year at the Ohio Expo Center (state fairgrounds) in Columbus, OH. That event is slated for March 11-13. Featured at this show is the Big Buck Contest, sponsored by the Buckeye Big Buck Club. Admission is $14. Visit their website: www.deerinfo.com. The 14th Annual West Virginia Hunting and Fishing Show will be held on March 5-6 at Mylan Park in Morgantown, WV. Admission is $7. Visit their website: www.outdoorsportsshow.com for more information.
ODNR Picks New District 3 Manager
Show Time From Page 2
January 2016
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Hunters Check 9,400+ Deer During Two-Day Season
COLUMBUS, OH — Hunters checked 9,447 white-tailed deer during Ohio’s 2015 two-day deer-gun hunting season, Dec. 28-29, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). The last time Ohio held a twoday December deer-gun season was in 2012 with 14,365 deer harvested. That year, the season was held on a weekend and accounted for just more than 6 percent of the entire deer harvest. This year’s two-day season total is projected to account for slightly more than 5 percent of all deer harvested. Hunters still have opportunities to pursue deer this winter. Muzzleloader season is Jan. 9-12, 2016, and archery season remains open through Feb. 7, 2016. Deer Management Goals The ODNR Division of Wildlife remains committed to properly managing Ohio’s deer populations. The goal of Ohio’s Deer Management Program is to provide a deer population that maximizes recreational opportunities, while minimizing conflicts with landowners and motorists. Until recently, deer populations in
nearly all of Ohio’s counties were well above goal. In the last few years, through increased antlerless harvests, most counties are now at or near goal. Therefore, to help stabilize deer populations, bag limits were reduced, and antlerless permit use has been eliminated in most counties for the 20152016 season. The ODNR Division of Wildlife is in the process of revising Ohio’s population goals and is asking hunters that receive the survey to help by completing and returning their survey as soon as possible. Hunters for this year’s survey were randomly selected from the list of hunters who purchased a license and deer permit by Nov. 16. Landowner surveys have already been completed, and hunter surveys were mailed in early December. Public input is an important part of Ohio’s deer management program, and survey participants are asked to complete and return their surveys to ensure that hunters have a clear voice in helping to decide the direction of deer management in Ohio. Hunting Popularity Hunting is the best and most effective
management tool for maintaining Ohio’s healthy deer population. 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. Find more information about deer hunting in the Ohio 2015-2016 Hunting and Trapping Regulations or at wildohio.gov. An updated deer harvest report is posted online each Wednesday at wildohio.gov/deerharvest. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov. Editor’s Note: A list of all white-tailed deer checked by hunters using firearms during the 2015 two-day deer-gun hunting season is shown below. The first number following the county’s name shows the harvest numbers for 2015, and the 2012 numbers are in parentheses — Adams: 209 (267); Allen: 21 (78); Ashland: 142 (234); Ashtabula: 305 (372); Athens: 212 (279); Auglaize: 38 (90); Belmont: 216 (387); Brown: 162 (220); Butler: 51 (101); Carroll: 211
5 (375); Champaign: 41 (77); Clark: 21(63); Clermont: 95 (182); Clinton: 37 (63); Columbiana: 196 (320); Coshocton: 349 (489); Crawford: 59 (102); Cuyahoga: 1 (6); Darke: 19 (66); Defiance: 74 (142); Delaware: 60 (102); Erie: 21 (41); Fairfield: 85 (169); Fayette: 10 (16); Franklin: 24 (26); Fulton: 16 (58); Gallia: 165 (230); Geauga: 77 (106); Greene: 21 (60); Guernsey: 263 (382); Hamilton: 21 (47); Hancock: 34 (77); Hardin: 53 (89); Harrison: 228 (390); Henry: 25 (64); Highland: 147 (239); Hocking: 203 (213); Holmes: 209 (286); Huron: 107 (195); Jackson: 194 (235); Jefferson: 169 (312); Knox: 236 (356); Lake: 21 (27); Lawrence: 147 (176); Licking: 236 (444); Logan: 86 (143); Lorain: 98 (181); Lucas: 10 (20); Madison: 26 (45); Mahoning: 107 (102); Marion: 55 (75); Medina: 83 (135); Meigs: 229 (259); Mercer: 18 (61); Miami: 37 (49); Monroe: 156 (203); Montgomery: 14 (23); Morgan: 181 (226); Morrow: 71 (133); Muskingum: 284 (474); Noble: 202 (235); Ottawa: 7 (9); Paulding: 34 (99); Perry: 181 (238); Pickaway: 38 (78); Pike: 140 (154); Portage: 88 (90); Preble: 29 (86); Putnam: 19 (47); Richland: 150 (194).
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Handling Muskie 101 OV Outdoor Times
The muskie is a difficult fish to catch. And like a dog chasing a car, when you finally do get a hold of one, what to do? With a mouthful of daggerlike teeth and a typiJeff Knapp cally bad attitude, a By Fishing Editor hooked muskie presents a danger to the angler not prepared to deal with the situation. Over the past three decades a strong catch-and-release ethic has evolved in regard to muskies, the reflection of a more enlightened attitude that places a well-deserved respect on the species. Most legal muskies were killed 30 years ago. Today, the release mentality coupled with higher minimum length limits sees most muskies being let go. Anglers properly outfitted to handle muskies can do so with minimum on stress to the fish, while maximizing their own safety. Probably the best thing to come along
in years has been the over-sized landing nets specifically designed for large predators like muskies. Huge nets like Frabill’s Big Kahuna and Beckman’s Pen Fin-Saver allow muskies to be held in the water at boat-side after being landed. The special netting on such devices is designed to be easy on the fish’s fins; their impressive diameter allows even a 50-plus-inch muskie to stretch out. Another good option is a muskie cradle, such as the one Frabill makes, but only when there’s at least one other angler in the boat, as “cradling” a muskie is a two person operation. Keeping the muskie boat-side allows its head to remain underwater, where it can recuperate from the struggle that put it in the net. It also gives the angler(s) time to calm down and to prepare for the unhooking process. Unhooking a muskie is the event which poses the greatest threat to both angler and fish. Tools to accomplish the task include long-handled pliers of a couple designs, as well as quality hook cutters. Unhooking is done while the
muskie remains in the net, with its head underwater as much as possible. How the muskie is hooked, as well as with what, will help determine how to get it free. Muskies are often caught on lures that feature two or three razorsharp treble hooks. If the fish is only hooked with one of the trebles, it will sometimes unhook itself in the net, as the “free” treble(s) grab the net, and the fish trashes, working itself loose of the one hook. When this fortunate occurrence happens it’s usually within seconds of the fish being netted. More typically, though, hooks entangled in the net are a bad thing, only complicating the process. Long-handled needle-nose pliers (especially ones with angled tips) and “channel lock-style” pliers are both good unhooking tools. 10-inch handles keep the angler’s hands a safe distance from fish’s mouth, reducing the chance of getting impaled on a hook or raked with a tooth. They also furnish the gripping power and leverage to lock on to the shank of the hook and twist or pull it free. Tools like the large sized Baker Hook-Out, made specifically for freeing hooks, are also useful. The act of pulling one hook free can sometimes bury another one in the fish.
January 2016
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Jeff Knapp
Doug Pavick admires a muskie safely landed with the help of a muskie cradle.
If a partner is present, having him/her hold the lure away from the fish (with a Turn To Muskie Page 7
Ohio Taxidermist Found Guilty
AKRON, OH – A two-year long joint investigation between two state wildlife agencies brought a Columbiana County wildlife violator to justice and curtailed poaching across state borders according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). ODNR Division of Wildlife and the Pennsylvania Game Commission worked together for over two years to collect and investigate tips of wildlife crimes submitted to the agencies by concerned citizens. These tips lead to the conviction of Kenneth Kelm, 67 of Leetonia, Ohio. There is a subsequent arrest warrant for an accomplice from Pennsylvania. Kelm was found guilty in Columbiana County Municipal Court on 38 counts of records violations (failure to keep accurate records required of taxidermists), and one count of buying and selling wildlife. He was fined $2,000, ordered to serve 10 days in jail, received a twoyear hunting privilege suspension, was ordered to forfeit all illegally possessed taxidermy mounts and wildlife parts which were seized by ODNR Division of Wildlife, and was ordered to serve a
two-year probation. While serving probation, Kelm is not permitted to accept any new taxidermy business. “Mr. Kelm was warned on several occasions for records violations despite a conviction for violations in the past. He chose to ignore these warnings, however,” said Brett Barnes, lead investigator with the ODNR Division of Wildlife law enforcement section. “The ODNR Division of Wildlife truly appreciates Judge Amato for taking this case seriously and issuing a strong statement to would-be violators,” said Barnes. The ODNR Division of Wildlife encourages anyone who is aware of a possible violation of wildlife laws to call the Turn In a Poacher (TIP) line at 1-800POACHER or to submit information online.
Enjoy the outdoors.... Take a kid hunting or fishing Join your local Sportsman’s Club,
You’ll be glad you did!
January 2016
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Turn To Muskie Page 6
second pliers) will help prevent this. Lures like single-hook spinnerbaits and jigs are much easier to unpin a muskie from. Usually it’s just a case of grabbing the hook at the bend and twisting in the direction that backs it out. Often muskies are hooked in such a manner where it’s more feasible to cut the hooks. The criterion is this: If the unhook job doesn’t appear simple, it’s time to start cutting. The average pair of side cutters isn’t going to shear a muskie hook, especially the shank of a heavy treble hook. The tool that will is a Knipex cutter. There are cheaper small bolt-cutter style tools that do a fair job, but the Knipex is so superior you’ll probably end up buying one eventually. Put a wrist lanyard on it to keep from accidentally losing it overboard. Once the lure if free from the fish it’s usually a fairly simple chore to pull out the remaining hook pieces. Carry a supply of hooks onboard to replace any you had to cut. Good split ring pliers will make the chore easier. While it might be awhile before it’s time to launch the boat in quest of muskies, now’s the perfect occasion to put together the items needed for their safe release.
PA Opens Registration for Student Archery Tourney
HARRISBURG, PA — A huge opportunity is “nocking” for Pennsylvania’s student archers. The 2016 National Archery in the Schools Program State Tournament is set to be held March 11 in State College, PA. It’s shaping up to be the biggest student archery tournament ever in Pennsylvania. And the Pennsylvania Game Commission is encouraging all schools participating in the program, commonly referred to as NASP, to register to compete. There is an $11 fee per archer to register, and the first day for registration is February 1. Registration remains open through Feb. 19. The NASP state tournament has been growing each year since its inception in 2011, and the March 11 tournament to be held at the Penn State Multi-Sport Facility figures to include close to 1,100 participants from more than 45 schools across Pennsylvania. The program has been growing in Pennsylvania and worldwide.
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NASP, which started in Kentucky in 2002, came to Pennsylvania in 2005. The Game Commission began coordinating the program in 2010 and, so far, the program has expanded to 210 schools. The tournament always is a sight to see. Ninety-five lanes, each with two archers, will be operating at once. About 9,000 arrows will fly each hour. And somewhere near 46,000 arrows will be fired on the day. This year, more than $5,000 in scholarships will be handed out to the state’s top performing student archers, helping them pay for college. Registration can be completed online through the Game Commission’s website, www.pgc.state.pa.us, or directly through the NASP Tournament website, http://nasptournaments.org. To use the Game Commission’s website to register, place your cursor over the “Education” tab, then click “National Archery in the Schools Program.” Registration is just a few more clicks away. Teams are encouraged to register early this year as space is limited. NASP helps school districts in Pennsylvania meet physical-education curriculum requirements set by the state Department of Education, and at the same time introduces students to the world of competitive archery. Tournaments are held at the state, national and international levels, and Pennsylvania
7 sent over 100 students to the 2015 national competition, which was held in Louisville, Ky. To get NASP started in a Pennsylvania school, contact Todd Holmes, at the Game Commission headquarters, at 717-787-4250, ext. 3330. Also, “PA NASP” can be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PennNASP.
Camp Perry Closed to Ice Fishing
PORT CLINTON, OH – Due to facility damage incurred as a result of excessive use during the 2014-15 ice fishing season, Camp Perry officials have determined it necessary to prohibit public use of the area for ice fishing from this date forward. Should conditions become feasible for ice fishing, parking access will be granted to guests staying overnight in a Camp Perry Lodging facility ONLY. Parking in designated areas will be authorized by display of facility-issued parking permits only. All others will be towed at the owner’s expense. For additional information about Camp Perry Lodging contact Debbie Paul at: 614336-6215 or email campperrypaul@gmail.com. The website is: http://cplcc.com/.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Beyond the Ohio Valley
January 2016
Tennessee: River Monsters, Myths & Destinations
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of WV Dept. of Commerce
Auston Hoffman of Milton, WV, holds the state record blue catfish he caught April 26, 2014, in the Ohio River. Tennessee also holds legendary catfish like this one.
By Captain Scott Manning
For over 100 years, myths and legends have flourished along the banks of the Tennessee River of monstrous creatures that live in their muddy depths. In the 1800s, tales of river monsters abounded throughout the river system, including a legend in which anyone spotting the creature was cursed. In the mid-1900s, the most popular legendary river creature became “catzilla,” a species of catfish that reportedly grew to the size of Volkswagen Beetles at several dams along the Tennessee River. There are some reported photos of monster catfish over 500 pounds during the 1900’s that seem to back up these claims. What lurks beneath the placid surface of the Tennessee River? Are there monsters in our midst? Newspaper accounts indicate divers, while cleaning out the intake to a local power plant, had to be rescued from the murky depths by EMS crews. Found floating and unconscious, they reported catfish so large that one of the divers was sucked into the giant bottom-feeders mouth, only to be spat out. The most common bait shop story states that a dam repair man goes down to check for cracks in the dam. He sees a gigantic catfish that could swallow a Volk-
swagen Bug whole. He comes up from the murky depths of the lake and never is a dam repair man again. However, the largest catfish in North America are blue cats, and the world record blue catfish caught in in 2011 weighed 143 pounds. While many of the world’s largest freshwater fish are located outside of North America, several large species can be found in area rivers, including blue catfish and flathead catfish. An angler better have stout tackle when doing battle with these beast. A Okuma Battle cat rod teamed with Okuma Coldwater reel will do the job just fine. The Tennessee River, covering more than 650 miles in the south ranks at the top of most catfish & striper anglers “Bucket List”. The Tennessee River is formed at the confluence of the Holston and French Broad rivers on the east side of Knoxville, Tennessee. From Knoxville, it flows southwest through East Tennessee toward Chattanooga before crossing into Alabama. Watts Bar Lake is a reservoir on the Tennessee River created by Watts Bar Dam as part of the Tennessee Valley Authority system. Even today, it remains one of the top catfish destinations in the US. Cabela’s King Tournament Trail holds a annual 2 Turn To Monster Page 9
January 2016
Monster From Page 8
day super event here each spring. Located about midway between Chattanooga and Knoxville, the lake begins as the Tennessee River below Fort Loudon Dam in Lenoir City, Tennessee and stretches 72.4 miles to Watts Bar Dam near Spring City, Tennessee. The Clinch River connects to the main channel of the lake at mile 568 near Southwest Point in Kingston, Tennessee. The partially navigable Emory River connects with the Clinch near the TVA’s Kingston Steam Plant just upriver from the meeting with the Tennessee. Including the Clinch and Emory arms, Watts Bar has 722 miles of shoreline and over 39,000 acres of water surface. Minor tributaries include Poplar Creek, Caney Creek, and White’s Creek. The lake contains several large islands, most notably Thief Neck Island, Long Island, and Sand Island. Fort Loudon Reservoir, located on the Tennessee River at Knoxville, is the uppermost in the chain of nine TVA reservoirs that form a continuous navigable channel from there to Paducah, Kentucky, 652 miles away. Fort Loudon is a popular recreation destination, known for boating and monster catfish. The tailwa-
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
ter area immediately below the dam is an excellent site for viewing a variety of waterbirds, including herons, cormorants, gulls, osprey and bald eagles. The reservoir is connected by a short canal to Tellico Reservoir on the nearby Little Tennessee River. Water is diverted through the canal to Fort Loudon for power production. The canal also offers commercial barges access to Tellico without the need for a lock. Barges passing through the Fort Loudon lock carry about half a million tons of cargo a year. Area attractions include the Oak Ridge Atomic Museum of Science & Energy, Dollywood Theme Park and Gatlinburg. In May of 2014, The Animal Planet TV Show filmed Season 7 episode 1 of Finding Bigfoot. That particular episode is still one of the highest rated watched shows in the world. World-famous Big Ed’s Pizza in Oak Ridge is a must-eat location as well as Calhoun’s BBQ on the river. I recommend Oak Ridge, Lenoir City, Kingston and Harriman as motel destinations with plenty of places to eat and not far from numerous boat ramps; such as Caney Creek Marina, Ladd Landing, Concord Marina and Tom Wheeler Park. So if chasing legends or real world monster catfish is on your “Bucket List”;
Bi-Weekly Aerial Waterfowl Survey Continues
COLUMBUS, OH — The bi-weekly aerial waterfowl survey is used to monitor waterfowl abundance during fall/winter migration throughout the northern portion of Ohio. This survey also helps identify habitat types critical to waterfowl and helps document waterfowl use of restored wetland projects over time. Procedure: The survey is flown weekly during September and bi-weekly from October through January. The survey is flown over selected water areas distributed in the Lake Erie marsh region in northwestern Ohio, and will once again include Wildlife Areas throughout northern Ohio including Big Island, Killdeer Plains, Grand Lake St. Mary’s/Mercer, Killbuck Marsh, Funk Bottoms, and Mosquito Creek. This survey is conducted on or near the 1st and 15th of each month, weather permitting. The survey crew identifies and estimates the number of each species of waterfowl encountered on the survey sites. Survey transects are flown at an altitude and route to optimize
waterfowl identification and minimize disturbance. Survey Sites: Sandusky Bay Marshes, Pickerel Creek Wildlife Area, Toussaint Marsh Area, Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area, Maumee Bay, Ottawa Wildlife Area National Wildlife Refuge, Cedar Point National Wildlife Refuge, Navarre Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, Darby National Wildlife Refuge, Grand Lake St Mary’s, Big Island Wildlife Area, Killdeer Plains Wildlife Area, Mosquito Creek Wildlife Area, Killbuck Marsh Wildlife Area and Funk Bottoms Wildlife Area.
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9
PAGC Recognized for Providing Hunter Access
HARRISBURG, PA — Those of us who rely on public tracts for hunting and other recreation generally cherish that land we use. With more than 1.5 million acres of state game lands and nearly 3 million acres of state park, state forest and federal ground open to hunting, trapping and other uses by the public – opportunities to enjoy the outdoors exist almost everywhere in Pennsylvania. But through partnership and hard work, millions of acres of the state’s private lands are open to the public, as well. The Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Hunter Access program opens to public hunting and trapping opportunities on about 2.6 million privately owned acres. And the program recently was recognized by Outdoor Life magazine, which named the Game Commission recipient of the Outdoor Life Open Country to be
then East Tennessee and the Tennessee River system is a Can’t-Miss destination. Feel free to call Captain Scott Manning (865) 680-7672 for information ranging from area sites to guided fishing opportunities. Bring the kids; this is one of the
presented during the 2016 Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show in Las Vegas, Nev. The award recognizes parties that actively help outdoorsmen face one of their toughest challenges: access to places to shoot, hunt and fish. Hunter Access Program The Game Commission’s Hunter Access Program was started in 1936 and is the oldest in the country. It focuses on providing hunters and trappers with access to land, especially near populated areas, because close-tohome places to hunt with ample game are seen as keys to recruiting and retaining hunters. The innovations in the Hunter Access Program are made possible through partnerships with the USDA-Farm Services Agency and USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service. most beautiful places in the world. Captain Scott Manning is a professional guide and outdoor writer from Tennessee. Visit his website at: www.tennesseestriperfishinguide.com.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Department of AG Lifts Bird Exhibition Ban
REYNOLDSBURG, OH – With no confirmed cases in Ohio and no immediate threat of a Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (avian flu) outbreak, Ohio Agriculture Director David T. Daniels and State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Forshey rescinded the order prohibiting bird shows in Ohio. That order came down on December 17. Officials urge poultry and bird owners, however, to remain vigilant and cautious in order to protect the health of their flocks during migration seasons. See the department’s fact sheet on precautions that can be done to prevent the spread of avian flu (www.agri.ohio.gov/divs/ai/docs/Fact%2 0Sheet%20?%20Avian%20Influenza%2 0and%20Bird%20Exhibitions.pdf). The order, issued on June 2, 2015, was originally intended to remain in place until April 2016. The ban included county and independent fairs, the Ohio State Fair, and all other gatherings of birds for show or for sale, including auctions and swap meets. Throughout the nationwide outbreak, the department worked closely with Ohio’s poultry producers and the United States Department
of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to provide training and to closely monitor the health of poultry in the state. The ban also affected falconers and all of their birds of prey. For Martins Ferry, OH master falconer Mick Brown the ban halted all of his activities with his Harris’s hawks — except hunting in Ohio. Brown said falconers were allowed to hunt in Ohio during the ban, but couldn’t leave the state. They were also not permitted to show or display their birds in Ohio or take them across state lines during the ban. That has now been lifted. “We used to go to Michigan for 10 days (hunting) in October and spend most of November in Kansas and we couldn’t do that. We’ve done that for years and couldn’t do that this year (2015),” said Brown. “It’s good that they lifted it. Now we can take birds out of state. We can do the shows and programs we usually do,” added Brown. Bird rehab (rescue) organizations really took a big hit by the state ban. Brown said many of the “rehabbers” had to shut down because of the loss of
funds. “They make their money from doing the shows, and they couldn’t do them,” said Brown. The avian flu is an extremely contagious virus that primarily affects domestic poultry and is likely spread by wild, migrating birds. The USDA first confirmed the virus in the U.S. beginning in late 2014. While there were no confirmed cases of the disease in Ohio, throughout the spring and summer of 2015 more than 48 million birds nationally were affected. On November 18, the World Organization for Animal Health (known as the OIE) issued its final report on the deadly avian flu outbreaks which declared that the outbreaks in all affected states are now final, closed, and resolved. This now makes the United States free of avian influenza for the time being. One of the ways avian influenza spreads is by direct contact with contaminated materials coming from other infected birds. Exhibitions, auctions and swap meets where birds are co-mingling pose a high risk of unintentionally spreading disease. While the intention is to allow bird exhibitions to be held next year, an outbreak in Ohio or nearby states may require the reinstatement or even an extension of the ban. “I would like to extend a sincere thank
January 2016
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Larry Claypool
Master falconer Mick Brown is shown with his Harris’s hawk, Zippy, during a winter hunt near East Liverpool, OH in early 2015.
you to OSU Extension and the youth exhibitors for their understanding and to their advisors for turning this unfortunate outbreak into an important educational moment.
Start 2016 by Exploring Ohio’s Parks and Nature Preserves
COLUMBUS, OH — We can help with your New Year’s resolutions to get more exercise, spend more time outdoors or to enjoy more quality time with your family. Join us at one of the winter hikes offered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) at state parks and state nature preserves across Ohio this month. ODNR is also excited to launch our OhioWinter16 photo challenge. Upload your photos to Instagram, Facebook or Twitter using the hashtag OhioWinter16 to potentially win an overnight stay in a cabin at one of our 74 Ohio State Parks. • 51st Annual Winter Hike at Hocking Hills State Park - This self-guided hike will be held on Saturday, Jan. 16, with continuous starts from 9-11 a.m. This rugged hike offers a 3-mile or 6-mile trek, allowing hikers to see noteworthy sights such as Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls and Ash Cave. This remains the most popular winter hike in the Ohio State Parks system, and millions of hikers visit this nationally recognized park throughout the year. Hikers are encouraged to wear layers and appropriate
footwear for wintry conditions. Refreshments are available at Cedar Falls, and donations are appreciated. Shuttle buses return hikers to Old Man’s Cave. Call 740-385-6841 for more information. • Winter Birding Hike at Stage’s Pond State Nature Preserve - Join staff on Jan. 16, for a winter hike to learn more about the birds wintering at Stage’s Pond. Dominated by glacial geology, the 3.5mile trail system is mostly flat for easy hiking. Please dress appropriately for winter weather. Some areas of the trail will be wet; waterproof or water-resistant footwear are recommended. Meet at the large parking lot in front of the office. We will have refreshments after the hike; please bring your favorite hot chocolate mug and spoon. Call 740-3808918 for more details. • Winter Hike at Lake Loramie State Park - Meet at the camp store at 1 p.m. on Jan. 16, for a winter hike along Lake View Trail. After the hike, refreshments will be served, and kids will be treated to a take-home craft. Turn To 2016 Page 15
January 2016
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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32K Acres of Land
Acquired to Restore Elk in WV
CHARLESTON, W.V. — The Conservation Fund recently announced its purchase of 32,396 acres of working forestland in southern West Virginia that will eventually create the state’s largest, conserved block of prime habitat for elk restoration. In partnership with the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR), the Fund’s historic conservation purchase will establish a vast protected landscape of sustainably managed land, supporting working forests and forestrybased jobs and increasing tourism opportunities for public hunting and other forms of wildlife-associated recreation. “This purchase and the first-of-its-kind elk restoration program in West Virginia is an investment in the economic development and future vitality of the state,” said Joe Hankins, Vice President for The Conservation Fund. “We’re proud to be a partner with the DNR in this effort to conserve an important and promising landscape, create new opportunities on land that once supported the state through it resources, and redefine conservation to provide multiple tangible eco-
HARRISBURG, Pa. — Through its fundraising efforts at the enormously popular Great American Outdoor Show, the National Rifle Association has donated $50,000 to several central Pennsylvania organizations who promote the outdoor lifestyle through educational and recreational activities. Donations were made through The NRA Foundation, America’s leading charitable organization in support of the shooting sports. The National Civil War Museum, one of the four recipients, was selected for its educational contributions. In association with the Smithsonian Institution, the museum showcases a comprehensive portrayal of the American Civil War through a collection of more than 24,000 artifacts. The National Civil War Museum will be using funds from The NRA Foundation to construct a new exhibit recognizing firearm manufacturers of the Civil War era that are still in operation today as well as highlighting gun safety programs and firearm education and training offered through the
nomic and environmental benefits for local communities. This is a win-win proposition for all West Virginians.” The Conservation Fund purchased the property through its Working Forest Fund®, with support from the Richard King Mellon Foundation. Under The Conservation Fund’s ownership, the property will be sustainably managed as working forestland. Over the next few years, the Fund will convey the land to the DNR in phases, starting in the spring of 2016. These lands will provide public, wildlife-associated recreation, and they will be managed for a variety of conservation benefits, including elk restoration. “As tourism continues to grow in West Virginia, this will be a wonderful new opportunity for outdoor recreation that both our residents and visitors can enjoy,” Governor Earl Ray Tomblin said. “I appreciate the cooperative efforts of everyone who helped make this project possible.” With this conservation effort, West Virginia joins a multi-state landscape level effort to restore elk to the Ap-
palachian region. “We are humbled and gratified by The Conservation Fund’s tireless efforts and coordination of this legacy project,” said Bob Fala, Director of the WV Division of Natural Resources. “It represents the largest single conservation acquisition in State history at a most opportune time for the local and State economy. The bulk of
NRA. “The Civil War was one of the most turbulent eras in our nation’s history and we pride ourselves in our museum’s ubiased look at its people, events, and technology,” said The National Civil Museums Board Chairman Michael Love. “Thanks to this generous donation by the NRA, we look forward to enhancing a number of our exhibits.” The three other groups benefiting from the NRA’s donations are All 4 Kids Hunting, dedicated to inspiring and educating youth on wildlife conservation through a safe introduction to hunting; LEEK Hunting & Mountain Preserve, which facilitates outdoor recreational opportunities for wounded veterans; and Camo Cares, an annual recreational event that raises funds to send children with life-threatening illnesses and wounded veterans on hunts. “Providing dream hunts for children and veterans who have faced tremendous hardships is an incredibly fulfilling act,”
said Camo Cares co-founder Jason Say. “The NRA’s donation will go a long way toward increasing the number of hunts we will arrange this coming year.” “We are grateful for the role these organizations play in continuing our country’s great shooting traditions,” said NRA General Operations Executive Director Kyle Weaver. “The success of the Great American Outdoor Show grants us the opportunity to give back to the community that sustains it and we look forward to assisting programs who support the outdoor lifestyle for years to come.” The nine day celebration of outdoor traditions is the largest consumer sports and outdoor show in the world and returns to Harrisburf, February 6-14, 2016. Learn more about the Great American Outdoor Show at www.greatamericanoutdoorshow.org. About the National Rifle Association Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America’s oldest civil rights and sportsmen’s group. Five mil-
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Larry Claypool
The Conservation Club recently purchased land in southern West Virginia to help create prime habitat for elk restoration in the state; similar to what neighboring states Pennsylvania and Kentucky have done.
this acreage adjoins the recently acquired Tomblin Wildlife Management Area and will be critical to the State’s fledgling elk restoration project.” The reclaimed mine lands associated with this acquisition effort are located in Lincoln, Logan and Mingo counties. They provide ideal grassland and forest habitat for a variety of wildlife species, including elk, deer, wild turkey, golden winged warbler and grassland birds. The purchase conserves more than 10,000 acres of currently leased lands at Laurel Lake Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and Big Ugly WMA, ensuring Turn To 32K Page 12
Donates $50,000 to PA Organizations
lion members strong, NRA continues its mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and is the leader in forearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the military. Visit http://nra.org. About The NRA Foundation Established in 1990, The NRA Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that raises tax-deductible contributions in support of a wide range of firearm-related public interest activities of the National Rifle Association of America and other organizations that defend and foster the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans. These activities are designed to promote firearm and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those participating in the shootings sports, and to educate the general public about firearms in their historic, technological, and artistic context. More information about The NRA Foundation can be found online at www.nrafoundation.org.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Tips on Ice Fishing in Ohio
COLUMBUS, OH — Ice fishing opportunities can be found in a variety of inland lakes and ponds, and Lake Erie as well, but the “Big Lake” warrants special considerations. For a variety of reasons, including safety, many anglers hire a licensed ice fishing guide who can set them up in the protective shelter of a shanty and help them locate fish. For those targeting walleye, use minnows on jigging lures or blade baits. Yellow perch can be caught with a spreader or crappie rig tipped with shiners. Other things to remember before going ice fishing: • No ice is safe ice • Have a valid Ohio fishing license • Know the size and daily limits for the fish that you hope to catch • Learn the ice fishing regulations for where you are fishing • Make a checklist of things you will need to have fun and be safe Consider leaving a “float plan” with someone who knows that you will be out on the ice, indicating where you plan to fish, where you plan to park your vehicle, and when you plan to return home. For boaters, this is common practice, and for ice anglers, it’s not a bad idea either.
Here are a few other pointers to keep in mind. Try to fish around other ice anglers so if you do fall through, someone might be there to help you get out. Remember to dress appropriately to prevent hypothermia and wear a life jacket or flotation suit when walking around on ice. Many anglers also bring along an extra change of dry clothes just in case of an emergency. Keep your cell phone available, but protected from the elements. One of the great things about ice fishing is that tackle can be very simple and inexpensive. Short rods, light gear, light line, and small baits are the ticket. Some anglers also like to use small bobbers as strike indicators since strikes can be subtle. Tip-ups are a common addition to many ice anglers’ tackle, too. They come in a variety of designs, but essentially involve a spool of line hanging in the water with bait attached. Most store-bought versions feature a signaling device, such as a flag, that pops up when a fish takes the bait. In Ohio, anglers can have up to six tip-ups going at one time, and each must be labeled with the owner’s name and address. Because fish don’t strike as aggressively in the winter, you’ll want to use
January 2016
lighter tackle – 10 pound test or less – and smaller baits. You can increase your odds by tipping artificial lures with live bait. Sluggish fish are much more likely to hit on a minnow-tipped jig as opposed to one with a plastic worm. Tip-ups are another common method of ice fishing and come in a wide variety of designs. Essentially, they involve a spool of line hanging in the water with bait attached. Most store bought versions feature a signaling device, such as a flag, that pops up when a fish takes the bait. In Ohio, anglers can have up to six tip-ups going at one time. What’s biting down below? Petering says you can catch the same species when ice fishing as you hooked during the summer months, including crappie, bluegill, bass and catfish, as well as perch, walleye and saugeye. In fact, some of the most sought after ice fish are saugeyes (a cross between the sauger and a walleye), because they are so active in the winter. Two of the best places for saugeye – and ice fishing in general – are Buckeye Lake in Fairfield and Licking counties, and Indian Lake in Logan County, which generally freeze Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of Frabill/NPAA quickly due to their shallowness. At these Yellow perch can be caught with a spreader or lakes, consider using a jig or spoon tipped crappie rig tipped with shiners while ice fishing. with minnows. Turn To Ice Fishing Page 13 Drop your line through an ice hole on a 32K From Page 11
permanent public access and enhancing connectivity with other important conservation lands in the region. West Virginia’s United States Congressional Delegation strongly supports this conservation and economic effort, which will be completed in part utilizing “Pittman-Robertson” funds through the congressionally authorized Wildlife Restoration Program, a $250,000 grant from Walmart and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundations’Acres for America program and a $250,000 grant from the Knobloch Family Foundation. “It is great news that The Conservation Fund has decided to invest in elk restoration in Southern West Virginia,” U.S. Senator Joe Manchin said. “Our neighboring states, Pennsylvania and Kentucky, have experienced success through reintroducing elk into their wildlife, and this project will similarly benefit our Southern region by bringing substantial economic growth through tourism and new hunting and outdoor recreation opportunities. I thank all those who have been working collectively to make this program a reality in our state.” The Conservation Fund’s Working Forest Fund uses conservation-focused for-
est management strategies to enhance forest health and productivity, wildlife habitat and water quality, while supporting the economic well being of surrounding communities. With more than half of America’s 751 million acres of forests vulnerable to fragmentation and conversion to other uses, the Working Forest Fund is a dedicated source of conservation capital and timberland expertise designed to quickly acquire threatened forests with high conservation value. Over the last three decades, The Conservation Fund has protected more than two million acres of forestland nationwide. About The Conservation Fund At The Conservation Fund, we make conservation work for America. By creating solutions that make environmental and economic sense, we are redefining conservation to demonstrate its essential role in our future prosperity. Top-ranked for efficiency and effectiveness, we have worked in all 50 states since 1985 to protect more than 7.5 million acres of land, including more than 69,000 acres of important natural resources, wildlife habitat and recreational lands in West Virginia at iconic places like Cheat Canyon and Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, which supports local economies and businesses. www.conservationfund.org
January 2016
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Safety Tips: • Find an Ice Fishing Guide • Always fish with a partner or in an
area with several other anglers present • Let others know exactly where you are going and when you plan to return • Place a cell phone in a plastic bag to protect it from moisture in case you get wet • Sprinkle sand around your feet for better traction on the ice • Always take along a PFD seat cushion or more importantly, wear a life vest in case of an emergency • Avoid areas where feeder streams, springs, bridge pilings, docks, and dam structures since ice is usually very thin there If you fall into the water, remain calm. • Slip your loose boots off to better tread water • Use ice awls to pull yourself out of the water • If no ice awls are available, call for help and try “swimming out” by letting your body rise up to firm ice and crawl out • Stay flat, distributing your weight on the ice • Keep your clothes on once out of the water. This will keep you insulated. If someone else falls in the water: • REACH using a stick or fishing pole. • THROW a rope or PFD. • ROW or push a boat. • GO call for help.
ATHENS, OH – A training academy for individuals interested in becoming hunter education instructors will be offered in Athens, Ohio on March 11-12, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Training will be held at the ODNR Division of Wildlife District Four office located at 360 East State Street in Athens (March 11 5-9 p.m. and March 12 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.). There is no cost to participate in the hunter education instructor academy, but all participants are required to complete a background check prior to the start of the academy so registration must be submitted
at least a month in advance. Forms must be postmarked by February 11. Participants must attend both days of training, be at least 18 years of age and have successfully completed a hunter education course. Ohio currently has 1,700 volunteer instructors who train thousands of hunters each year to be safe and responsible in the field. For more information on becoming a hunter education instructor visit the hunter education pages at wildohio.gov. ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
AKRON, OH — Sportsmen and women interested in pursuing coyotes are encouraged to attend a free, informational workshop provided by Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife on January 27, 2016 in Akron. ODNR Division of Wildlife biologists will cover very basic topics such as life history, calling techniques (call types and setups), appropriate firearms and ammunition, field sets, and scouting. The workshop will be from 6-9 p.m. at
Wildlife District Three, 912 Portage Lakes Drive, Akron. Pre-registration is required as seating is limited. Call Joe Ferrara at 330-644-2293 or email joseph.ferrara@dnr.state.oh.us. To learn more about hunting and trapping in Ohio visit wildohio.gov. ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
Ice Fishing From Page 12
farm pond and you’ll likely be pulling up some tasty panfish, such as bluegill and crappie. For bait, Petering suggests using a tiny ice jig or fly and tipping it with wax worms. Lake Erie ice fishing is definitely a different “kettle of fish.” For a variety of reasons – including safety – many anglers hire a guide who sets them up in the protective shelter of a shanty and helps them locate the fish. The area between Green and Rattlesnake islands, just west of South Bass Island, usually offers some of the safest ice on the lake. For those targeting walleye, use minnows on jigging spoons, blade baits and jigging Rapalas. Yellow perch can be caught with a spreader or crappie rig tipped with shiners. Some anglers include a bobber as a strike indicator. Once the freeze is on, check the most recent ice fishing reports, or make a quick stop at the local bait shop to find out what’s biting and where. As always, be safe when you head out on the ice and for more information, please call 1-800WILDLIFE or contact your local Wildlife District Office.
Become a Hunter Education Instructor
Free “Basics of Coyote Hunting/Trapping” Workshop in Akron
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Frequently Asked Questions About Ice Fishing
Which is safer, clear ice or cloudy ice? This is actually a trick question- NO ICE IS SAFE ICE! Regardless of how the ice looks, always proceed with caution since there are always thin spots on lakes and ponds. But, as far as which ice is better, clear ice is better than cloudy ice. It is very intimidating if you step out onto a lake or pond and can see clearly to the bottom. But with the way ice forms, the clearer it is, the less impurities and irregularities is has. So, inch for inch, clear ice is stronger since it’s purer. There is no one on the lake and I hear weird noises. Is that the sound of the ice cracking? Probably not. The ice on a lake is in a difficult position: cold air above, warm water below, and only so much room to expand. So when ice forms, it will actually “sing.” True or False- Speaking of water temperatures, the warmest water will be near the top since the sun can still warm the water. False! Believe it or not, water can have different density depending on the temperature. Water is MOST dense when it is at 4°C (39°F). Instead of warm water at the
top and cool water at the bottom in summer, the warmest water in the winter will be at the bottom while the coolest water will be at the top. This cool water will eventually freeze first and become the first layer of ice. So when you start your day ice fishing, try putting your lures near the bottom first since that is where it is the warmest. True or False- Why go ice fishing? The fish are “turned off,” so they won’t bite. False! Just like everything else, fish need to eat to survive. Now granted, they do eat less when the waters get cold since their activity level decreases. But they do need to eat enough to maintain their body condition, and make it to the spring when they will reproduce. True or False- During the winter, aquatic vegetation dies off, and the lake bottoms are flat with no features or cover for fish. False! Aquatic vegetation can last throughout the winter as long as sunlight can penetrate the ice. If you ever reel up some vegetation in the winter, and it is green, it is probably alive. However, if the ice is cloudy or there is an excess amount of snow on the ice.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Sportsman’s Club Feature
January 2016
Lowellville Rod and Gun Club Lowellville, Ohio (Mahoning County)
About the club: The Lowellville Rod and Gun Club was formed in 1938 (in 2016 they will celebrate their 80th anniversary) and is one of the premier sporting clubs in the state of Ohio. The club has approximately 100 acres adjacent to the clubhouse as well as several leased farmlands for hunting. It’s located near the eastern Ohio border and western Pennsylvania. It includes a 10-acre lake, trap range, rifle range, archery range and an indoor shooting range. In an effort to learn more about the Lowellville Rod and Gun Club, the Ohio Valley Outdoor Times’ staff asked the following questions about the sports club. OVOT: Is your club accepting new members? LRGC: Yes, from January 1 through August 31 we accept new members. OVOT: Is there a membership cap? Is
there a waiting list? LRGC: There is a membership cap of 500. At this time there is not a waiting list. OVOT: What costs are involved in joining your club, and what are the annual dues? LRGC: Annual dues are currently $65 per year; initiation fee $100; key fee $3; electronic key fee $10; land pledge $375 when a new member first joins (with 3 payment plans available). OVOT: Are there working hours required of members? LRGC: Yes, regular members need to work 20 hours per year. A new member needs to work 20 hours from the time they join the club through year end. This is why we close new memberships each year on August 31 so they have a chance to work their 20 hours that year. OVOT: Are there other requirements of members?
Calendar of Events
West Virginia Trappers Association Fur Auction - Jan. 8-10, 2016 at Gilmer County Recreation Center, Glenville, WV. Several vendors. Auction is 1 p.m. Sunday. Fur Handling Clinic on Jan. 9. For info. call Scott Schimmel at 304-462-7270, email Janet Hodge at hawkmtn@hawkmtn.com or visit website at: www.wvtrappers.com. Ohio State Trappers Association Fur Auction - Jan. 16, 2016 at Crawford County Conservation League, 3477 St. Rt. 98, Bucyrus, OH. Starts at 9 a.m. Call-ins for lot numbers (for all three auctions) will be taken on Jan. 2 only from noon - 9 p.m. Call Steve Hiller at 937-206-1934. For info. contact Hiller, OSTA Fur Auction Coordinator via email: SH10@outdrs.net. Visit the OSTA website at: www.ohiostatetrapper.org. Northeast Ohio Sportsman Show - Jan 2123, 2016 at Buckeye Event Center, 624 Henry St., Dalton, OH 44618. Now three days; Thurs. 2-8 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m. -9 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. -5 p.m. Vendors, demonstrations, seminars, deer scoring (Sat. only). Admission $10, kids 12 & under free. Parking free. Visit www.ohiosportsmanshow.com. For info. 740397-7788. See ad on Page 2. Ohio State Trappers Association Fur Auction - Feb. 13, 2016 at 50 Boyer Lane (just off Rt. 41) in Jeffersonville, OH. Starts at 9 a.m. Call-ins for lot numbers (for all three auctions)
will be taken on Jan. 2 only from noon - 9 p.m. Call Steve Hiller at 937-206-1934. For info. contact Hiller, OSTA Fur Auction Coordinator via email: SH10@outdrs.net. Visit the OSTA website at: www.ohiostatetrapper.org. West Virginia Trappers Association Spring Rendezvous and Fur Auction - March 4-6, 2016 at Gilmer County Recreation Center, Glenville, WV. Several vendors. For info. call Scott Schimmel at 304-462-7270, email Janet Hodge at hawkmtn@hawkmtn.com or visit website at: www.wvtrappers.com. Ohio State Trappers Association Fur Auction - March 12, 2016 at Wallicks Auction House, 965 N. Wooster Ave., Strasburg, OH, 44680. Starts at 9 a.m. Call-ins for lot numbers (for all three auctions) will be taken on Jan. 2 only from noon - 9 p.m. Call Steve Hiller at 937-206-1934. For info. contact Hiller, OSTA Fur Auction Coordinator via email: SH10@outdrs.net. Visit the OSTA website at: www.ohiostatetrapper.org. PA Trappers Association Rendezvous June 23-25, 2016 at West End Fairgrounds, 570 Fairgrounds Rd., Gilbert, PA, 18331. Auction is Fri. 6:30 p.m. On Sat. Cable Restraint Cert. Class. Demos, dealers, contests, auction. $5 admission, $10 for three days. Tailgate space $50. Camping available. Contact Bob Counterman 610-759-9203 or Scot Mucha 610-863-9759. Website: www.patrappers.com.
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of LRGC
The Lowellville Rod and Gun Club is located at: 6225 Quarry Road in Lowellville, Ohio, Mahoning County. It features a 10-acre lake, trap range, rifle range, archery range and an indoor shooting range.
LRGC: A new member must fill out an application and then be interviewed by the Executive Board and voted on before a new member can be sworn in at a
General Meeting. OVOT: Is there a family membership? LRGC: No - memberships are for inTurn To Lowellville Page 15
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January 2016
Lowellville From Page 14
dividuals. However we allow members to bring family members and guests. OVOT: What facilities does your club feature? LRGC: Indoor Range, Outdoor Ranges, Trapshooting, Archery, Fishing (10 acre lake), Hunting, Clubhouse/Main Hall (kitchen) – can be rented out, Trapshooting Clubhouse. OVOT: Any events your club hosts? LRGC: Family Day, Teach a Kid to Fish Day, Gun Shows, Shooting tourna-
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
ments (Trap, Pistol, Rifle, CMP), Christmas Party, Fish Fry, (*View Facebook page to see monthly schedule.) OVOT: Host other activities? LRGC: Hunter Safety Class, Youth Program, Women’s Shooting, Pistol Safety Class, CCW Classes (A local gun store rents out our hall and indoor range for CCW classes throughout the year.) OVOT: What is the current membership of your club? Is that up or down from five years ago? LRGC: We raised our total member-
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Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of LRGC
The lake at the Lowellville Rod and Gun Club affords some beautiful scenery, including this recent sunrise.
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of LRGC
Lowellville Rod and Gun Club hosts many events at the club, including a fishing day on their lake.
Dove From Page 10
• Big Woods Hike at Hueston Woods State Park - Meet at the nature center at 2 p.m. on Jan. 16, to hike to an old growth forest within the park. Wear appropriate footwear and bring your vehicle; we will drive to the trailhead. Allow two hours for the hike. • Full Moon Hike at Eagle Creek State Nature Preserve - Meet on Jan. 23, at 8:45 p.m. to walk the preserve at night by the light of a full moon (contingent upon sky conditions). Registration is required for this free event. Please dress according to the weather and wear appropriate shoes, the event will last until 10 p.m. To register or for more information, call 330-527-5118. • Afternoon Hike at Hueston Woods State Park - Meet on Jan. 24, at 2 p.m. at the nature center to hike through the scenery of Hueston Woods. Please wear apparopriate footwear. Bring your vehicle; we will drive to the trailhead. This program is longer than an hour. • Section Hike at Shawnee State Park - Meet at the lodge lobby on Jan. 30, at noon for a brisk hike on the Shawnee Backpack Trail from noon to 4 p.m. We will be walking on rough terrain so bring your walking sticks, wear com-
fortable hiking shoes and dress in layers. Bring snacks and water. Everyone welcome including pets. Hiking distance will be based on skill levels attending. No hike will exceed 7 miles. • Big Woods Hike at Hueston Woods State Park - Journey to an old growth forest on Jan. 30. Meet at the nature center and wear appropriate footwear. Bring your vehicle; we will drive to the trailhead. Allow two hours for the hike. • For more information on these hikes, plus other recreational opportunities at state parks, forests, nature preserves and wildlife areas, go to ohiodnr.gov/winter. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
Ohio Valley Outdoors
ship cap from 400 to 500 in order to allow our club to accept new members and meet the demand. The Lowellville Rod and Gun Club is located at: 6225 Quarry Road, Lowellville, OH 44436. Contact the club at: 330-536-8143 or see their Facebook page. Editor’s Note: Information about your sports club can be featured on this page
by contacting the OVOT staff by phone at: 330-385-2243 or email: ohvod@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com. There is no cost involved. It’s a free service provided by Ohio Valley Outdoor Times and Ohio Valley Outdoors Magazine for our readers, local sportsmen and women and sports clubs. Information must be provided and approved by a club officer or board of directors.
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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Elton Frauenknecht 12-pt. Warren County, OH
Allen Beerman 14-pt. Pickaway County, OH
Eugene Dailey 8-pt., buck WV
January 2016
Anthony Price 11-pt., bow Van Wert County, OH
Luke Sheets 10-pts., bow Fairfield County, OH
Send Us Your Photos
Jansen McCloy 10-pt., buck Great, WV
Jaren McCloy 7-pt., buck WV
Emily Byler 8pt., crossbow Monroe 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
January 2016
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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Frank Aleksiejczyk crossbow Jefferson County, OH
Gary Crable 10-pt. Carroll County, OH
Jacklyn Hajnosz, age 10 1st buck Westmoreland County, PA
Travis Hunt, OVO Pro-Staff 8pt., crossbow Jefferson County, OH
Joe Justinger, age 11 Fall 2015 Jake Lake County, OH
Eric Sauers 9-pt., bow Medina County, OH
Jonathan Barlett 8-pt. Butler County, OH
Fred Ormanis 10pt., shotgun OH
Josh Enlow 9pt., 128.5" Warren County, OH
Joshua Toms 10-pt., 180 green score, bow Fairfield County, OH
Chris Green, OVO Pro Staff December bowfishing Ohio River
Danika Freeman, Age 9 8-pt., crossbow Columbiana County, OH
January 2016
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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Ohio Valley Outdoors
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