GETTING & KEEPING PERMISSION - P. 6
Coyotes & Turkey Decoys Story inside page 3
Winter Fishing Gear Tips OV Outdoor Times
It’s one of my favorite rituals of the year — the purchase of the year’s new fishing license. This By Jeff Knapp year it hap- Fishing Editor pened on January 5th. By the 6th I’d logged my first trip of the year, an afternoon jaunt to a nearby stream that holds a decent population of wild brown trout. Mention winter fishing to many folks and they look at you like you have three eyes. But cold weather fishing needn’t be a test of endurance. Over the years I’ve been fortunate to have logged a significant number of wintertime fishing trips. Those experiences have led to a certain understanding of what it takes to be comfortable during winter fishing expeditions. Here are a few tips along that line; ones that will help keep your all-soimportant extremities happy. HANDS — When your hands are cold, you’re ineffective as an angler. But bulky gloves or mittens, the kind with enough insulating properties to keep your mitts toasty, stifle the dexterity
Outdoor Times
February 2014
needed to manipulate a fishing rod and detect bites. Currently my favorite gloves are smooth, synthetic numbers, the kind designed for use by mechanics to provide not only warmth but protection from abrasion. While they aren’t the warmest of gloves — they are relatively thin — they do offer a decent level of thermal protection. When it’s really cold, I add a pair of fingerless gloves. This provides a great deal more warmth, but leaves the fingertips uncovered. Notice that I mention “smooth” for both the base layer gloves and fingerless gloves. In my experience, the worst fishing gloves are those made of ragg wool. Not that they aren’t warm. It’s that they tend to grab any hook that comes near them. And they really grab them, often requiring a cut job to remove them. I’ve experimented with the so-called glomitts, those glove-mitten hybrids where the mitten portion is secured with a strip of Velcro, so that it can be hinged out of the way to expose the fingers for delicate work. My problem with them is the same as with the ragg wool gloves. That ‘mitten flap’ is always in the way. Some may like them, but I don’t. A couple final thoughts on gloves: When you find a design(s) that suits your needs, buy a couple extra pairs, so you’ll have plenty to use when they get wet, which is inevitable during a fishing trip. And be sure you’re outer jacket has Turn To Fishing Page 5
Ohio Valley
FR EE!
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of Jeff Knapp
The author enjoys an early January trip on a northwestern Pennsylvania trout stream.
February 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
3 Coyotes and Turkey 4
14 Product Review:
Curt Grimm
Decoys
Denny Fetty
16 WV Hunters Harvest ThermaCell Insoles
Ohio’s 2014 Hunting Season Dates Proposed
8
ODNR
WVDNR
19
150,268 Deer
Tag Soup...Choice or Just a Bad Decision
Tom Butch Named to Land Conservancy Board
Denny Fetty
9 Product Review: 12
Bill Waugaman
Aerohead Boots
Ohio Muzzleloader Hunters Bag 16,000k Deer ODNR
13
NWF Launches Online Community for Kids
OUTDOOR CALENDAR
Sunday Outlaw Shoots - Each Sunday afternoon through March 2014 (except holidays) at Beaver Creek Sportsman Club, Washingtonville, OH. Reg. noon, starts at 1 p.m. 36” guns only. For info. contact Glenn Harsanye at 330-770-8027. Website is: www.beavercreeksc.com. Wyandot Bowmen Indoor 3-D Shoots - Feb. 16 at 3 p.m., Adults $10, Youths $5. Open to public and beginners. For information call: Don Barnhart at 304-565-5110 or Harper’s Archery at 304387-1519. Ohio Hunter Education Course - March 14 (4:30-9:30 p.m.) and March 16 (1-7 p.m.) at Trumbull County Rod and Gun Cub in Mecca, OH (6565 Phillips-Rice Road). Register online: www1.oh.wildlifelicense.com. For information call Jeff Murray at 330-442-1314. Gun Show by Mahoning Valley Gun Collectors - April 12-13 at the Lowellville Rod and Gun Club in Lowellville. Admission is $4. Vendor tables are $25. The show is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. For information call Bill at 330-506-9194. The club is located at 6225 Quarry Road, Lowellville, OH.
Ohio Valley
I was drawn in by this mission statement: “We seek to preserve the scenic beauty, rural character, and natural resources of Northeast Ohio.” That mission statement is similar to many By Larry Claypool across this country that Editor come from groups of organizations who operate land trusts or land conservancies. In most cases a land conservancy is community-based and non-profit entity that works with landowners to permanently protect and conserve land for its natural, scenic, historic and recreational value. They are dedicated to the protection and stewardship of natural and working lands for the public good. Regionally I was attracted to this topic by a recent press release from the Western Reserve Land Conservancy (northeast Ohio) who announced four new board of trustees that included Salem resident Tom Butch (see story on Page 19). Butch is one of the most active outdoorsman and conservation-minded people I’ve met. Many of Butch’s outdoor-related commitments and experience are listed in the article. His resume shows that he’s a great choice to serve on the board of the Land Conservancy. The mission statement above is from the Western Reserve Land Conservancy. Founded in 1987, the WRLC is now the largest land trust in Ohio. It has preserved more than 500 properties and nearly 40,000 acres in the Sandusky Bay and Lake Erie Islands region. It’s latest acquisition, a merger with the Little Beaver Land Foundation, extends their reach to in-
clude Columbiana, Jefferson and Carroll counties. They now have land in 17 Ohio counties. As a resident of Columbiana County Butch said he hopes to bring awareness to land projects in this area, as well as others. We can learn a lot about what a land conservancy is from the Western Reserve Land Conservancy website (www.wrlandconservancy.org) that lists their core values. It says, “We are dedicated to preserving land throughout northern Ohio. Western Reserve Land Conservancy is a nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to preserving the natural resources of northern Ohio. We work with landowners, communities, government agencies, park systems and other nonprofit organizations to permanently protect natural areas and farmland. How? Our primary tool is the conservation easement, which allows property owners to permanently preserve their land without surrendering ownership.” One of the leading benefits of land conservancies is their ability to “act swiftly and professionally to help landowners and communities protect the places important” to everyone. They have the expertise and tools available to protect and steward land forever. It’s a lot of behind the scenes work that benefits many of us — and many of our kids and grandkids. One national level organization, the Land Trust Alliance, offers regional land trusts more clout and broader access on many fronts. Part of its mission statement says, “we focus our work on three strategic goals: accelerating the pace, improving the quality, and ensuring the permanence of conservation.” Visit their website at: www.landtrustalliance.org.
To Advertise CALL 330-385-2243 Publisher/Editor, Larry Claypool lclaypool@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
Outdoor Times February 2014
What is a Land Conservancy? OV Outdoor Times
INSIDE THIS MONTH
2
Graphics Designer, Linda McKenzie lmckenzie@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
VOL. 6, NO. 02
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
Ralph Scherder, Hunting Editor Jeff Knapp, Fishing Editor Brian Miller, Field Editor
QUESTIONS, COMMENTS
Ohio Valley Outdoor Times is all about its readers. We’d love to hear from you. Send us something at ohvod@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
February 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Coyotes and Turkey Decoys
By Curt Grimm
One of the most productive ways to hunt coyotes is with turkey decoys. I use them all year round and they provide a great opportunity to see a variety of animals and seem to attract coyotes. I wear camouflage to match the season and use Kirschner’s Curiosity deer lure as cover scent. When laws permit I tie a fishing string to the turkey decoy to provide a little movement. A Quaker Boy Easy Yelper call is attached to my gun to play down my movement. One of the most exciting hunts I ever had was when a coyote moved towards my decoys and came straight at me as I called. It was a head on collision with the Hevi-Shot, loaded in my Mossberg 835 12gauge. The wild turkeys were flying, my decoys were to my left, and the biggest coyote I had ever seen had his mind on my last turkey call. I felt like a lion was making a charge at me. The hunter became the hunted. My heart was pounding! The shot was well placed at a short distance. Now it was picture time on an outlook (eastern Ohio) where I love to scout and hunt. During the winter months I like to set up on the edge of a corn or bean field where there are turkey scratchings. The coyotes are on the move and hun-
3
gry. The treestands I use in archery season are also great places to hunt because the coyote will leave the thicker cover on the deer trails. In the deeper woods I place my decoys on old logging roads. I take the high ground because it provides a better vantage point. The coyotes move between the road and the top of the hill. To be productive at harvesting a coyote I believe you must hunt like a coyote. Your position is the greatest attribute. Seeing the game before it sees you and making a quick and safe shot.
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Gary Grimm
The author with a turkey call attached to his Mossberg for coyote hunting.
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of Curt Grimm
The author with a large male coyote he harvested recently. “One of the most exciting hunts I ever had.”
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Ohio’s 2014 Hunting Season Dates Proposed
COLUMBUS, OH — The Ohio Wildlife Council Hunting season date proposals were recently announced by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). The council is an eight-member board that approves all of the ODNR Division of Wildlife proposed rules and regulations. The council will vote on the proposed rules and season dates during its April 9 meeting after considering public input. The proposals for the 2014-15 hunting seasons include: • September 1, is the proposed start date for Ohio’s fall squirrel and dove hunting seasons. • Hunting seasons for cottontail rabbit, ring-necked pheasant and bobwhite quail are proposed to start November 7, the first Friday in November. • Fox, raccoon, skunk, opossum and weasel hunting and trapping are proposed to start November 10. • Proposed 2014 fall wild turkey hunting season dates are Monday, Oct. 13, to November 30. • Proposed 2015 spring wild turkey dates are April 20-May 17.
• The proposed 2015 youth wild turkey weekend dates are April 18-19. New this year, it is proposed that youth hunters can harvest up to two wild turkeys during the 2015 two-day youth season (one per day). Checking two wild turkeys would fill the youth hunter’s bag limit for the remaining 2015 spring wild turkey season. This proposed change would not take effect until 2015. The bag limit remains one wild turkey for the two-day 2014 youth wild turkey hunting season. Proposed open counties for quail hunting remain the same as last season: Adams, Athens, Brown, Butler, Clermont, Clinton, Highland, Jackson, Meigs, Montgomery, Pike, Preble, Ross, Scioto, Vinton and Warren. Youth small game seasons are proposed statewide for two weekends: Oct. 25-26 and Oct. 31-Nov. 1. Open houses to receive public comments about hunting, trapping and fishing regulations and wildlife issues will be held on March 1. Open houses will be held at the ODNR Division of Wildlife District One, District Two, District
Three and District Four offices, the Greene County Fish and Game Association clubhouse in Xenia, the Lake Erie Fairport office and the Old Woman Creek Reserve office in Huron. Open houses give the public an opportunity to view and discuss proposed fishing, hunting and trapping regulations with the ODNR Division of Wildlife officials. For Ohioans who are unable to attend an open house, comments will be accepted online at wildohio.com. The online form will be available until March. Directions to the open houses can be found at wildohio.com or by calling 800-WILDLIFE (945-3543). A statewide hearing on all of the proposed rules will be held at the ODNR Division of Wildlife’s District One office on March 6, at 9 a.m. The office is located at 1500 Dublin Road, Columbus, Ohio 43215. Council meetings are open to the public. Individuals who want to provide comments on a topic that is currently being considered by council are asked to preregister at least two days prior to the meeting by calling 614-265-6304. All comments are required to be three minutes or less. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
February 2014
PF Youth Event Set in Johnstown
JOHNSTOWN, OH — The Johnstown Community Sportsman’s Club will host the 13th Annual Southeast Ohio Pheasants Forever Youth Event on April 12 in Johnstown, OH (Licking County). Registration begins at 8 a.m. for boys and girls of all ages. This free event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Over 800 youths are expected to participate. The events include: dog demonstrations, conservation, habitat, firearm safety with multiple shotgun, BB gun, 22 rifle, and muzzleloader stations, archery stations, treestand safety, fishing, casting and fly tying, taxidermy, deer processing, flint knapping, leather crafts, boating safety, veterinary station/pet care and more. For information, contact Jim Davis, Youth Event Coordinator at 740-8624223 or email: mdavis4173@gmail.com. The sportsman’s club is located at: 7357 Sportsman Club Road, Johnstown, OH 43031.
February 2014
Fishing From Page 1
handwarmer pockets. Activate a couple chemical handwarmers at the start of the day, and you can take an occasional ‘warm up break’ for when the gloves aren’t quite doing it. Remember, the objective is to have fun, no see how much you can take. FEET — Winter fishing for the stream angler often means walking in waders. And there’s usually snow on the ground. As great as felt bottom soles at providing sound footing on slippery streambed rocks, they’re horrible when traversing any distance through snow. The snow quickly packs up on the soles, giving you a set of Frankenstein feet. You spend more time looking for appropriate logs to clear you boots of snow as you do for nice pools to fish. The answer is to invest in a pair of wading boots that sports the new ‘sticky’ rubber. Snow doesn’t built up on them. If you buy models that feature screw-in studs (which are removable, for times when you don’t want them), they’re nearly as good on slimy rocks as felt soles. Also, with more and more streams being affected by invasives — like the recently discovered didymo algae in Tioga/Lycoming County’s Pine Creek
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
and New Zealand mud snails in Centre County’s Spring Creek — the use of felt soles, known conveyors of such invasives, is becoming less justified. HEAD — There are many good cold weather hats out there. Suffering from an admitted fondness for headgear I’ve tried a lot of them. Some are baseballstyle hats, with flaps that tuck up under the hat for when it’s only cool, but can be dropped to cover your ears when it’s really cold out. I have a Filson that’s along that line, and it functions fairly well. The one problem with hats of this design is they don’t protect your ears during boat rides. Actually the leading edge of the flaps funnels the driven cold air onto your ears. Knit wool ‘watch caps’ are good — they provide excellent ear coverage — but I really miss having a hat with a bill. The bill not only keeps the sun out of the eyes, but provides a place to clip a cap light or magnifier. The simplest remedy — for my needs are least — is a thin wool or synthetic balaclava worn under a favorite baseball-style hat. The balaclava furnishes good protection for the ears and neck. Most models have enough material so you can cover your mouth during boat rides, so you’re not breathing in super-cold air.
5
Help Protect Nature Preserves by Participating in Ohio’s Income Tax Checkoff Program
KENT, OH — When filling out their taxes this year, Ohioans can make a difference in preserving the state’s wealth of natural resources for generations to come by making a donation through Ohio’s Income Tax Checkoff Program. Old-growth woods, bogs and fens, endangered species, prairies and other remnants of Ohio’s natural history are all protected by a system of 136 state nature preserves. Ohioans who donate to the Natural Areas State Income Tax Checkoff Program help support this system. Checkoff donations have enabled the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Natural Areas and Preserves to construct trails and boardwalks, improve parking and signage and allow for greater public access to a treasure trove of nature’s wonders available in Ohio. Additionally, donations support critical ecological management activities, including efforts to remove non-native and invasive species that pose a serious and ever-growing threat to sensitive habitats. At Eagle Creek State Nature Preserve in Portage County, staff completed an
extensive treatment of the highly invasive Japanese knotweed along 2 miles of the preserve’s wooded stream banks. Battling invasive plants at Sheepskin Hollow State Nature Preserve in Columbiana County involved hiking rugged trails and scaling steep walls. Once staff reached the site’s hemlock gorge, they proceeded to manually remove garlic mustard and bag it so they could ensure the containment of this highly-invasive plant. Ohioans can join ODNR in protecting our state nature preserves. Please consider designating all or a portion of your Ohio Income Tax refund to the Natural Areas Fund. Learn more by visiting ohiodnr.gov. Taxpayers who are not receiving a refund this year may still contribute by sending a check to ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves, Natural Areas Fund, 2045 Morse Road, Building C-3, Columbus, Ohio 43229. ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Getting (and Keeping) Permission to Hunt OV Outdoor Times
With the increased interest in out-ofstate hunting, as well as the nationwide increase in posted property, gaining access to good hunting areas can be very competitive. Many landowners allow By Ralph Scherder hunting by permis- Hunting Editor sion, but only give it to a select few. However, with a little courtesy, you can tip the scales in your favor and gain access to excellent deer hunting and maintain it for many years. Before asking for permission, know where you want to hunt. Road trips serve several purposes. First, they give you an idea of the lay of the land. How much of it is wooded? How much is fields? Second, they provide an opportunity for rough scouting. Early mornings and evenings are great times to catch deer out feeding in the fields and in meadows. A little snow on the ground
also helps with scouting, which is why February can be a great time to head afield and find new hunting areas. Tracks in the snow help you figure out how and where deer are accessing the property. Numbers and size of tracks let you know how many mature deer will be there next season. February and March are great times to ask for permission for other reasons, too. First of all, farmers have more time during these months to actually talk to you about their land. And second, once permission is gained, early spring is a great time to start looking for shed antlers. Nothing gets you more excited for next season than finding shed antlers of bucks still roaming the property you have permission to hunt. When seeking new hunting territory, narrow down your choices to only the best deer cover. After all, there’s no sense getting permission to hunt poor habitat. Once you’ve targeted an area, now comes the tough part – knocking on
doors. Sure, it’s easy to present myself like the absolute professional when I’m talking to my reflection. However, when I first started knocking on doors in West Virginia and other states, I lost focus, saying everything but what I’d planned to say. Part of the reason was that the areas looked so good and I wanted to hunt there so bad that I was worried about getting rejected. The fear of rejection made me lose my focus, which did not improve my chances at all. A good remedy is to chew gum. Chewing gum relaxes you and helps reduce anxiety. Collect your thoughts before even getting out of the truck. Presenting yourself takes practice. You won’t get it right the first time, unless you’re a natural salesman. And that’s exactly what asking for permission is – a sales pitch. Persuading the landowner that you’re responsible and will respect the land and its animals. But most of us are not natural salesmen, so we need to formulate a plan that will capitalize on our strengths and increase our chances of success. Let’s start with the sales pitch. What do you say to a landowner who gets dozens of hunters on their doorstep every year? Here’s how I like to do it:
Walleye Madness Tourney Set
BOARDMAN, OH — The highly successful Walleye Madness Tournaments in 2013 have propelled another series of events for 2014. The tournament series will feature two main events this year — Hot Bite events at Mosquito Lake on April 27 and Lake Erie at Geneva on June 28. The Walleye Madness Tournaments are sponsored by Buckeye Sports Cen-
February 2014
“Hello, sir, I’m sorry to bother you. My name is…” The apology doesn’t win me many brownie points, but a little consideration never hurts. As my spiel unfolds, I talk slowly and include only the necessary facts. Typically, after the introduction, I let them know I’m looking for permission to hunt. Also, it’s important to tell landowners up front what method of hunting I’ll be doing. Some landowners will not let gun hunters on their property, while others frown on bowhunters. Occasionally, no matter what weapon you choose to hunt with, you’ll meet an unfriendly face. Knock on enough doors and you’re bound to come across someone who does not approve of hunting. Take it in stride, tip your cap and walk away. It won’t do any good to banter with someone who doesn’t understand your passion and who won’t allow you to hunt there anyway. Another thing to keep in mind when asking permission is to start small. Ask to hunt only part of a landowner’s property. In the Midwest my friend Dan asked permission to hunt a farmer’s land. The farmer got a bewildered expression on his face and said, “All of it?” What Dan didn’t know was that the Turn To Permission Page 7
ter, Lund Boats, Mercury Marine and Walleye Team Six (WT6) Club. The open tournaments offer a 100% payout, plus $700 in bonuses per event. No membership is required for this twoangler team format. The field should fill up quickly. It’s considered full at 40 boats. The entry fee is $150 and includes the Big Fish Bonus. The 40 boat payout will attract many fine anglers. The payout (at 40 boats) will be: 1st- $2,500; 2nd$1,250; 3rd- $900; 4th- $750, 5th- $600. To register visit the website: www.walleyemadness.net.
February 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
WV Hunters Harvest 2,682 Black Bears
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — West Virginia hunters harvested 2,682 black bears during the combined 2013 archery and firearms seasons, according to Paul Johansen, assistant chief in charge of game management for the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. The preliminary harvest data for the combined 2013 seasons were nearly identical to the 2012 harvest of 2,691 bears. The black bear harvest of 2013 marks the fourth time in the past five years that the harvest has topped 2,000 and is the second highest harvest on record. “As always, mast conditions had a tremendous influence on the distribution of this year’s bear harvest,” said Johansen. “The 2013 Mast Survey and Hunting Outlook documented the lowest statewide oak index in the survey’s history. However, oak mast was present in localized areas and was reported as most common in the higher elevations of the eastern mountains. An abundant beech and hickory crop statewide allowed the index for all hard
mast to fall just 16 percent below the 42year average. “Decreased mast conditions statewide allowed archers to pattern bears effectively and led to an increased archery harvest. Decreased mast conditions also led to a decline in the December firearms season harvest. The combined effects of firearms hunting with or without hounds in September and October and the concurrent bear and deer hunting seasons in 29 counties helped offset the decline in harvest during the December season.” Hunters took 851 bears during the 2013 archery season. The top five counties were Wyoming (75), Fayette (61), Raleigh (58), Logan (52) and Randolph (52). Firearms hunters harvested 1,831 bears during 2013. Hunters took 679 bears in September and October, 361 during the concurrent buck/bear season, and 791 during the traditional December season. The top five counties were Randolph (245), Pendleton (201), Greenbrier (151), Webster (134) and Pocahontas (131).
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Turn To Permission Page 8
farmer had 5,200 acres. So now Dan asks to hunt only some of their property. This has increased his odds significantly, since landowners are more willing to share part of their property rather than all of it, at least at first. Later on they may give you access to wherever you desire. Okay, let’s say you’ve secured permission to hunt a place. It’s not an easy task, especially if you’re trying to find places in highly-competitive areas. Even in West Virginia I’ve had problems gaining access to prime territory. Many landowners are also hunters, and they’re not quick to let other hunters on their property. Ideally, I like to secure permissions long before the start of the season. Wait too long and I know I’ll be knocking on doors at the same time other hunters are making their rounds. Many landowners allow only a certain amount of hunters each year, and I want to be the first they give permission to. Once a landowner has given the nod, don’t push for too many details. Usually the only question I need to ask is where I should NOT hunt. They’ll point out the back door and give rough directions, seldom more than that. As long as I know
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where the property boundaries are, and where I shouldn’t be, I can figure out the rest. Keeping permission to hunt is a matter of courtesy. Rarely will a landowner suddenly decide not to let you hunt the property without reason. Still, there are a few things you can do to solidify your hunting spot. If you’ve gained permission before deer season, it’s important to let the landowner know when you intend to start hunting there, or when you plan to scout. Also, at the end of the season, it’s important to let them know when you’re leaving. You’ve got to take time to say good-bye. Leave a thank you note if they’re not home. Keep in touch throughout the year and don’t let that door close. It’ll be too hard to open it again.
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Ohio Valley Outdoors
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Tag Soup...Choice or Just a Bad Decision OV Outdoor Times
For me, it was another year with of an unfilled deer tag. I am not in a panic. I’ll get another chance this fall. My question is to you is: (and I’m hoping to see some honest feedback on this topic). Do you feel By Denny Fetty that purchasing a deer OVO Pro Staff hunting license and not filling it is senseless? Please don’t get me wrong. I hunted pretty hard this year. Saw a large number of deer at my stand and saw the benefits of supplemental food sources. The deer and turkeys had a good crop of acorns so early feeding wasn’t as effective as it was once. We watched the activity pick up and then slow down. Rut was weird this year and my treestand time during it was limited at best. There were many chances for me to take a doe but I chose not to. Taking an animal is a big decision for me. If a dominant buck would have shown up,
the decision to take him would have been simple. The breeder does that came every night to the stand would have provided a great deal of meat for the freezer. So why not take the shot? Bear with me on this. I didn’t because what happens after the shot is the also a decision a hunter must make. Once an animal is taken the work really begins. The processing of meat can be quite a tedious task. Depending on your plan for the processing. Some want all burger. Some want a mix of steaks and roasts and there are some that make jerky out of everything. I want it all — steaks, roasts, burger and jerky! So there is a lot of work involved in processing the meat. I usually only buy one tag because for me that one is hard to fill. Not because I don’t have the opportunity, but rather the reasons I shared. I’m not a guy that “if it’s brown it’s down.” Never really have been that way. Timing is also important in my decision making. My job offers me abundant days off and this includes a seven day off period. If I am in my stand during those
times, it is much easier to take a shot because I will have time for processing the meat. The later in the week and closer to going back to work I am, the less chance I will take a shot. My season isn’t considered unsuccessful just because a tag wasn’t filled. I have had a really good season. I saw some remarkable things while hunting. Taken several movies of many things. I had turkeys roost right next to me. Saw owls and hawks and what seamed like a million squirrels. I catch a great deal of flack from my buddies about not getting a deer. A lot of ,”some great hunter you are! “ and “where’s all the jerky?” It’s there for the taking actually. You just have to be there, take your shot and get your meat. It doesn’t end with deer season either. The turkeys pitched a shutout on me last spring as well. But the opportunity was there for a double on a pair of jakes with my hunting buddy and I couldn’t move without getting busted. I caught grief on that one as well. But he took a nice bird and it tasted great! So readers, I would really like to hear your opinion on this. Are you a buy all the permits you can and try to fill them all or a one and done type of person? I like to refer to an unfilled tag as tag soup.
February 2014
Ohio Valley Outdoors–
“My season isn’t considered unsuccessful just because a tag wasn’t filled.”
It tastes bad no matter how you cook it. There is no wrong answer to this question. As long as the life you take is consumed at the table and not just a trophy. That is a whole other conundrum. For questions or comments, reach Fetty at OVO: 330-385-2243 or by email: ohvod@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com.
February 2014
PRODUCT REVIEW
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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Aerohead Boots from LaCrosse – A Step in a Different Direction OV Outdoor Times
L a C r o s s e Footwear, a company synonymous with high quality footwear, recently introduced a new hunting boot, called Aerohead, that is manufactured in a By Bill Waugaman completely different way than their popular Alphaburly boots. According to LaCrosse, the Aerohead boot went through four years of development and testing. How the Aerohead is manufactured is important to understanding the benefits and advantages of this boot. Step 1 – The Aerohead starts out as a neoprene sock that is both flexible and insulating. The inside of the neoprene sock is covered with a moisture wicking jersey knit liner. A specially designed gusset is stitched in the back. The outside of the sock is completely coated
with Brush Tuff, a bidirectional, abrasion-resistant weave material that protects against brush and briars, and is waterproof. Step 2 – Using a process called Armor Weld technology, liquid rubber is applied to the seam in the front. This reinforces the seam area and seals the boot seam to prevent leaking. Step 3 – The neoprene sock and lightweight rubber compound outsole are put into a specially designed mold where warm liquid polyurethane is injected. This lightweight polyurethane shell cools and chemically bonds to the Brush Tuff around the foot area and up the front of the boot. On the bottom, the polyurethane creates the midsole between the neoprene sock and the outsole. This polyurethane midsole is durable, flexible and insulating. Plus, the midsole serves as an integrated shank supporting the arch of the foot and adds cushioning. A collar made with a jersey textile ma-
Crock Pot Goose • Prep Time: 20 min. • Cook Time: 7 hours, 20 min.. • Ready In: 6 hours 20 min. • Yields: 6
2.5 lbs. cubed goose breast 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce 4 tsp. canola oil 4 tsp. fresh lemon juice 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp. garlic pwoder 1 cup all purpose flour
1/4 cup butter, cubed 1 can, 10 3/4 oz. condensed golden mushroom soup undiluted 1 1/3 cups water 1 envelope onion soup mix 1 16 oz. package egg noodles
Directions: In a gallon resealable plastic bag, combine soy sauce, oil, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Add cubed goose. Seal and turn to coat. Refrigerate at least 4-5 hours, preferably overnight. Drain and discard marinade. Place flour in a shallow dish. Add goose in batches and roll to coat. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown goose in butter on all sides. Transfer to a slow cooker crock pot. Add the soup, water, and soup mix. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or until meat is tender. Serve over cooked egg noodles.
www.SportsMansTable.com http://recipes.sportsmanstable.com/
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Bill Waugaman
terial is sewn around the gusset and the top of the boot protecting the edge of the Brush Tuff, the neoprene sock and jersey knit liner. The nylon gusset straps are stitched to a 2” round pad of Brush Tuff. These pads are then attached to the outside of the boot using Armor Weld technology and liquid rubber seam sealant to insure the waterproof integrity. The gusset strap incorporates an adjustable clip to keep excess strap for
Aerohead Boots, made by LaCrosse Footwear, recently introduced a new hunting boot, called Aerohead, which is manufactured completely different from standard waterproof boots.
dangling. The attention to details for LaCrosse does not stop here. The rubber compound outsole has a non-loading tread design for mud, incorporates a toe bumper on the front and wraps around the back for better traction when walking. The back of outsole incorporates a small heel-kick to help in taking the Turn To Boots Page 11
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boots off. The construction of the Aerohead incorporates Ankle-Fit, a design that holds the heel in place to prevent rubbing and chafing. LaCrosse makes two styles of the Aerohead, a 3.5 mm neoprene shell with a Mossy Oak Infinity or Realtree Xtra Green Brush Tuff camo pattern, or a 7.0 mm neoprene shell with Realtree Xtra or Mossy Oak Bottomland Brush Tuff camo pattern. LaCrosse rates their 3.5 mm style at -30°F and the 7.0 mm style at -60°F. Both styles are 18” tall and are available in whole sizes from 5 to 15. One of the first questions many outdoors people will ask is, “How much?” Surprisingly, the MSRP for the 3.5mm Aerohead is $130; the 7.0mm Aerohead is only $140. Another question will be, “Why use polyurethane instead of rubber?” LaCrosse chose polyurethane for the Aerohead because of its durability, flexibility, light weight, good insulating qualities and being waterproof. When you put on the Aerohead boots, two of the benefits of using polyurethane are immediately obvious. First, these boots are lightweight in comparison to many other rubber boots. In size 11, the Areo-
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of LaCrosse Footwear
The Armor Weld technology features liquid rubber that is applied to the seams.
head boots with a 7.0mm neoprene liner only weigh 5.8 pounds. Second, the cushioning action of the polyurethane midsole is especially noticeable when walking on a hard surface like pavement, ice or frozen ground. In talking with Alan Mullet, owner of Mullet’s Footwear in Mesopotamia, OH, he said the Aerohead boots are selling extremely well. Mullet commented that he is continually reordering Aerohead boots to keep them in stock. When asked what comments his customers are making about the boots, Mullet said that
everyone who has purchased Aerohead boots really likes them. If LaCrosse expands the line of Aerohead boots or make any changes, my only recommendations would be a slightly larger heel-kick and a more aggressive tread pattern for ice and snow in the 7.0mm style. Even without any changes or enhancements, the Aerohead is a lot of boot for the money. For more information, visit the LaCrosse website at: www.lacrossefootwear.com.
11 Ohio Hunters Harvest 191,000+
COLUMBUS, OH – Deer-archery season ended February 2, bringing all deer hunting seasons to a close. Ohio hunters checked 191,459 white-tailed deer during the 2013-2014 hunting season for all implements. Hunters checked 218,910 deer during the 2012-2103 hunting season. This expected decline in the deer hunter harvest comes following several years of liberal bag limits and deer regulations, which helped bring Ohio’s white-tailed deer population closer to target levels. Until recently, the populations in nearly all of Ohio’s counties were above their target numbers. The Ohio counties that reported the most checked deer for all implements during the 2013-2014 season: Coshocton (6,270), Tuscarawas (5,774), Licking (5,711), Muskingum (5,547), Guernsey (5,307), Ashtabula (4,981), Harrison (4,533), Knox (4,529), Carroll (4,203) and Athens (4,053). Coshocton County Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of LaCrosse Footwear also reported the most deer harvested in This cutaway photo of the Aerohead boot offers 2012-2013 (7,413). a look at the new manufacturing process, called Visit the ODNR website at Armor Weld technology. ohiodnr.gov.
12
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Ohio Muzzleloader Hunters Bag 16,000+ Deer
COLUMBUS, OH — Ohio hunters braved record-setting cold temperatures and howling winds to harvest 16,464 white-tailed deer during the state’s fourday muzzleloader season, Jan. 4-7, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). The extreme cold that moved across the state during the final two days of the season did not deter some hunters as more than 3,800 deer were checked on Monday and Tuesday. Counties reporting the highest number of deer checked during the 2014 muzzleloader season include: Guernsey (652), Coshocton (630), Muskingum (593), Tuscarawas (592), Belmont (561), Harrison (513), Licking (511), Athens (485), Jefferson (472) and Carroll (458). Muzzleloaders are traditional hunting implements that emphasize accuracy and the value of the first shot. The popularity of muzzleloading rifles for hunting and target shooting continues to grow. Types of muzzleloaders include flintlock, percussion cap, in-line percussion and muzzleloading shotgun. Hunting is the best and most effective management tool for main-
taining Ohio’s healthy deer population. Hunters have harvested more than 185,000 deer so far in the 2013-2014 hunting seasons. The ODNR Division of Wildlife remains committed to properly managing Ohio’s deer populations through a combination of regulatory and programmatic changes. The goal of Ohio’s Deer Management Program is to provide a deer population that maximizes recreational opportunities, while minimizing conflicts with landowners and motorists. This ensures that Ohio’s deer herd is maintained at a level that is both acceptable to most, and biologically sound. Until recently, the populations in nearly all of Ohio’s counties were well above their target numbers. In the last few years, through increased harvests, dramatic strides have been made in many counties to bring those populations closer toward their goal. Once a county’s deer population is near goal, harvest regulations are adjusted to maintain the population near that goal. More information about Ohio deer hunting can be found in the 2013-2014 Ohio
Hunting and Trapping Regulations or at wildohio.com. Hunters who received a 2013-2014 Ohio deer hunter effort and harvest survey are encouraged to complete it when the season ends. This survey is an important tool in Ohio’s deer management program, and information provided in the survey is vital for establishing deer hunting regulations. The survey is conducted with a random sampling of hunters to help eliminate bias. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov. A list of white-tailed deer checked by hunters during the 2014 muzzleloader hunting season, Jan. 4-7, is shown below. The first number following the county’s name shows the harvest numbers for 2014, and the 2013 numbers are in parentheses. They are: Adams: 296 (347); Allen: 46 (88); Ashland: 283 (310); Ashtabula: 313 (422); Athens: 485 (510); Auglaize: 41 (51); Belmont: 561 (739); Brown: 233 (305); Butler: 104 (110); Carroll: 458 (683); Champaign: 83 (118); Clark: 55 (61); Clermont: 153 (212); Clinton: 52 (78); Columbiana: 379 (441); Coshocton: 630 (813); Crawford: 53 (95); Cuyahoga: 1 (6); Darke: 22 (62); Defiance: 74 (107); Delaware: 101 (152); Erie: 27 (56); Fairfield: 192 (211); Fayette: 27 (27);
February 2014
Franklin: 31 (44); Fulton: 30 (50); Gallia: 283 (337); Geauga: 96 (126); Greene: 58 (95); Guernsey: 652 (821); Hamilton: 60 (79); Hancock: 42 (102); Hardin: 80 (110); Harrison: 513 (677); Henry: 16 (34); Highland: 254 (318); Hocking: 362 (445); Holmes: 336 (406); Huron: 150 (177); Jackson: 265 (361); Jefferson: 472 (619); Knox: 391 (520); Lake: 20 (59); Lawrence: 229 (230); Licking: 511 (675); Logan: 130 (182); Lorain: 142 (197); Lucas: 16 (41); Madison: 27 (35); Mahoning: 162 (197); Marion: 42 (54); Medina: 137 (159); Meigs: 425 (482); Mercer: 28 (48); Miami: 45 (65); Monroe: 278 (511); Montgomery: 24 (57); Morgan: 361 (460); Morrow: 90 (150); Muskingum: 593 (751); Noble: 341 (444); Ottawa: 17 (40); Paulding: 51 (83); Perry: 294 (375); Pickaway: 47 (83); Pike: 187 (217); Portage: 109 (158); Preble: 100 (131); Putnam: 22 (30); Richland: 227 (360); Ross: 287 (362); Sandusky: 43 (66); Scioto: 196 (268); Seneca: 98 (149); Shelby: 82 (101); Stark: 202 (268); Summit: 48 (56); Trumbull: 222 (321); Tuscarawas: 592 (784); Union: 57 (94); Van Wert: 25 (41); Vinton: 392 (392); Warren: 91 (142); Washington: 402 (442); Wayne: 140 (177); Williams: 69 (110); Wood: 34 (57) and Wyandot: 69 (126). Total: 16,464 (21,555).
WV State Park Recovers from Storm Damage
HACKER VALLEY, WV — Holly River State Park is resilient. Two major storms in less than six months – a derecho followed by Superstorm Sandy in 2012 – put the park squarely back into the 18th century by extinguishing electricity and wreaking havoc on the park’s infrastructure, resulting in several months of closure. However, Holly River State Park is back on track in 2014 and welcomes friends to return and invites newcomers to discover one of West Virginia’s most loved state parks. Located in Hacker Valley in Webster County, the park opens cabin rentals to the public for vacation and recreational use April 4 through Nov. 30, 2014. Holly River’s 10 cabins are constructed of natural stone and logs. They are located in a peaceful setting of rhododendron and sturdy hemlock, through which flows a small stream feeding Laurel Fork. “The cabins at Holly River are unique. Reservations are brisk so far,” according to Ken McClintic, park superintendent. “People are getting the word that we are
open again and we hope they continue to spread the word. Like good friends, patrons return to Holly River year after year.” The campground at Holly River has been restored and will reopen in April. Reservations are taken for site rentals from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends. A reservation form is posted on the park website www.hollyriver.com under the “Camping” tab. Campsite reservations are taken in written form beginning Feb. 15. A standard campsite fee at Holly River is $23 and includes electricity. Senior campers age 62 and older receive the senior discount rate. The phone number at Holly River is 304493-6353 or email hollyriversp@wv.gov. To learn more about Holly River State Park 2014 opening dates, special accommodation offers and the restaurant opening, subscribe to the electronic WV State Park newsletter. Click “join our newsletter” on www.wvstateparks.com. To receive state park updates via Facebook, click “Like” at www.facebook.com/ wvstateparks.
February 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
NWF Launches Online Community to Connect Kids with Wildlife
ANN ARBOR, MICH. — Watching a pair of blue jays frolic in a bird-bath. Sitting on a park bench observing squirrels chase each other around a giant oak tree. Gardening in your backyard. Planting a tree. Fishing along a misty river. Seeing turtles sunbathe on a log in a local lake. Counting stars by a dying camp fire in a state park. People who love the outdoors and wildlife are invited to check out a new online community called Wildlife Nation that the National Wildlife Federation recently launched with the goal of connecting people with each other in order to instill a love of wildlife in children. You can visit Wildlife Nation at: www.wildlifenation.org “My favorite memories as a kid involve the outdoors. But children today are becoming increasingly disconnected from nature and wildlife,” said Becky Lentz, director of Great Lakes programs and operations at the National Wildlife Federation’s Great Lakes office, which
initiated the community. “We started Wildlife Nation because we can’t imagine a world where nature and wildlife are not a part of kids’ lives. Our goal is to create a community where we all help each other so that kids today can enjoy the wonders of wildlife whether they live in a large city, a suburb, or rural community.” Wildlife Nation aims to attract people who enjoy doing things outside or who want to get outside more—and to connect them to other like-minded people to create a network of people who can help each other connect kids to nature. People who join the community can upload pictures, tell stories, and ask questions. Once there, people can find resources to create a habitat in their backyard, plant trees, or camp and fish. “We view Wildlife Nation as a kind of ‘niche Facebook’ for adults who care about wildlife and want to pass that sense of caring on to the kids in their lives – whether those are their own kids,
WALDO, OH — The Ohio State Trappers Association will hold its annual banquet on March 29, 2014, at All Occasions Catering, located at 6968 Waldo-
Delaware Rd., Waldo, OH 43356. Tickets are $25 and will be limited. Doors open at 5 p.m. with dinner served at 6:15 p.m. Group tickets will be sold (as a table) for $200. There will be a table captain for each group of eight sold. The package comes with eight dinner tickets, $40 of general raffle tickets, and a chance to win a prize only available for table captains. For tickets and information, contact Dave Linkhart at 937-903-7688 or email: kdmlink@juno.com.
OSTA Banquet Set for March 29
13
grandkids, or the kids at their school, church or down the block,” said Julia Liljegren, regional education manager. “The Wildlife Nation community is online and on-the-ground so teams of one or more adults do stuff outside with kids and then connect with others to share what they are doing online. People can do as much or as little as they want, how and when they want to do it. Whether you’re the type of person who likes to take a leisurely stroll around the block or hike the Appalachian Trail, you’re welcome to be part of Wildlife Nation.” People and organizations can join Wildlife Nation. There are 16 founding teams representing the states of Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Virginia, and Vermont all of which are participating in the launch of the social media platform. Founding teams include families, schools, corporations, organizations and state agencies. “Wildlife Nation is open to adults who want to help create a future in which kids develop and retain a wonder, respect and appreciation for wildlife,” said Lentz. “There is no one right way to get kids outdoors. We’re forming a community that is helping grow the next generation of wildlife stewards. Families,
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Larry Claypool
The NWF has created a network of people who can help each other connect kids to nature.
camp counselors, teachers, faith leaders, community mentors, and business leaders are all welcome.” Increasingly, children are spending more time indoors and in front of electronic devices. Wildlife Nation hopes to help reverse this trend by inspiring kids to get outdoors every day to create a generation of happier, healthier children with more awareness and connection to the natural world. Turn To NWTF Page 15
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14
PRODUCT REVIEW
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
ThermaCell Heated Rechargeable Insoles
OV Outdoor Times
I was given the opportunity to field test the newest product from ThermaCell: their Heated Rechargeable Remote Controlled Insoles. I received them in October and it gave me plenty of By Denny Fetty time to do a bit of re- OVO Pro Staff search and to get accustomed to them. I read the instruction booklet and put them on the charger. I also activated the remote control and checked out the features. The unusually warm weather we had this past bow season proved to be a problem for field testing. I was barely wearing a jacket most days. Another problem — my feet are usually very warm, all the time. I use boots with very little insulation in them because I really don’t need the insulation. Too much and my feet sweat. Then after sitting still in
the stand for 3 or 4 hours, my feet freeze. I’ve tried just about everything possible to find a balance that keeps my feet dry and warm to pretty much no avail. I’ve tried different materials of socks from 100% wool to blended wool of all types and again, nothing’s worked. I have even tried my regular sneakers, or tennis shoes, with rubber slip-on boot covers and that didn’t work. Hand and foot warmers absolutely drive me nuts! I can’t stand anything in my boots except for my socks and feet. As temperatures chilled in November, I finally got to use the ThermaCell Heated Insoles, and I have to say I was impressed. Just having the insoles in the boots made my feet warm and I didn’t even turn the power on. After about 2 1/2 hours I started to get a chill and turned on the insoles on to medium heat. Almost instantly they warmed up and my feet were definitely warm enough to turn them off. I actually only turned them on three times that day for about a
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of ThermaCell
ThermaCell Heated Rechargeable Insoles
minute or two each time. I used them again on the first day of muzzleloader hunting and again only turned them on for a minute and then right back off. The temps were in the 20’s and at dark with the wind howling it felt really cold but I was dressed for it. According to the booklet the insoles charge will last up to five hours. The outside temperature and thickness of insulation in the boots will affect run time. As for my boots, they are knee high rubber bottoms with camo uppers and 400
February 2014
grams of insulation media. The new ThermaCell Heated Insoles are very user friendly. If you have high uppers though, they can be a bit difficult to install. To help the user remove them, there is a fabric tab to pull on and guide them back out of the boots. The wireless remote works up to seven feet away and has three settings: No Heat; Medium Heat (100 degrees) and High Heat (111 degrees). Other advantages of the ThermaCell Heated Insoles: • Easy access panels for ON/OFF switch and charging ports. • Easy to follow instruction manual. • Initial charge time 4 hours. • Lithium ion polymer batteries can be fully recharged over 500 times. • Remote control batteries can be easily replaced. • Price range from $95.94-$129.99 In my final summary, I would recommend the ThermaCell Heated Wireless Rechargeable Insoles very highly to folks that have trouble with cold feet during outdoor activities. I think they are awesome, and give them “Five Stars”. Give them a try and beat the cold. And stay in the stand or blind longer. That may increase your chances of a successful hunt.
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February 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
A Coyote in Your Urban Neighborhood — What to Do?
AKRON, OH — Ohio wildlife biologists are frequently contacted by concerned residents who spot coyotes in highly developed areas. This is often not cause for alarm. Coyotes are highly adaptable animals that live in a wide variety of environments thus there is no need to report sightings to wildlife officials unless the animal appears hurt, sick, or habituated. Here are a few steps to keep in mind when you encounter an urban coyote in the Buckeye State. 1. Understand that coyotes are common throughout Ohio’s 88 counties and are regularly seen within city limits. Read more about coyotes at www.wildohio.com 2. There are no wolves living in the wild in Ohio. 3. If you spot a coyote on your property, make sure to remove all “attractants” to deter the coyote from returning. This includes removing garbage and pet food primarily before nightfall and cleaning up around the grill. Do not feed coyotes directly. 4. Coyotes prey primarily on small mammals such as rabbits and rodents.
However, interactions with domestic pets do occur sometimes. Keep small dogs and cats inside (especially after nightfall) or leashed when outside. Motion-sensitive lighting tends to be helpful too at keeping wildlife away from your home. 5. Occasionally, an inquisitive coyote will stay put and watch you curiously. Make noise. Clap your hands and shout; the coyote will likely move on at this point. If it doesn’t, throw objects like rocks at it to scare it away. A coyote that loses its fear of humans could potentially become a threat. 6. If the coyote visiting your yard does not respond to harassment techniques such as loud noises or it is presenting a conflict even after removing attractants from your yard, contact a nuisance trapper. You can locate a trapper on our website at www.wildohio.com. Nuisance trappers use highly regulated techniques to reduce urban wildlife conflicts. Coyote populations in rural areas can be managed through legal hunting and trapping methods. Consult the yearly “Ohio Hunting and
CLEVELAND, OH — Brown trout introductions could hamper the conservation of declining native brook trout populations, according to a new U.S. Geological Survey study. Brook and brown trout are valuable sport fish that co-exist in many parts of the world due to stocking introductions. USGS researchers found that, in New York State, direct interactions between the two species, such as competition for food, have minor effects on diminishing brook trout populations compared to human-caused habitat disturbances. However, repeated, disproportionate stocking of brown trout in brook trout habitats could drastically decrease brook trout numbers. “There is great potential for brown trout stocking to reduce native brook trout populations,” said James McKenna, USGS scientist and lead author of the study. “But brown trout aren’t necessarily causing the current brook trout declines, and managers may be able to develop sustainable scenarios to
support both fisheries.” The USGS study found that humaninduced degradation (from dams and roads, among other causes) of the habitats of both species can affect the populations of either. However, because brook trout do better in forested watersheds, whereas brown trout can thrive in more agricultural environments, degraded watersheds and/or the elimination of forests may affect brook more than brown trout. Improper brown trout management could further threaten vulnerable brook trout populations. Fisheries managers in New York use stocking to maintain brook trout-a native species-and/or brown trout-a non-native species stocked in New York for over 100 years-in some streams. Brook trout have been declining within its native range in recent decades, and there has been concern that the stocking of brown trout has caused these declines. The report is published in the North American Journal of Fisheries Management and is available online.
Trapping Regulations” digest for more information.
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of ODNR
Are coyotes lurking around your urban neighborhood? Biologists say the canines are common in every Ohio county.
A Tough Balance: Brown Trout Can Interfere with Brook Trout Conservation
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of ODNR
“There is great potential for brown trout stocking to reduce native brook trout populations,” said James McKenna.
For more information on USGS Great Lakes ecosystem research, visit the USGS Great Lakes Science Center website. USGS provides science for a changing world. Visit USGS.gov, and follow us on Twitter @USGS and our other social media channels.
15 Free Public Program on Coyotes to be Held
BOARDMAN, OH — Whether reviled or revered, coyotes are very clever and adaptive animals. This is proven by their opportunistic and creative instincts to find food and habitat in a wide array of environments. Learn more about coyotes in Ohio during a free public program on March 6, 2014 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The program will take place at the Lariccia Family Community Center, Rotary Room, Boardman Park, 375 Boardman-Poland Road. Topics to be covered by Division of Wildlife officials include coyote biology, ecology, population trends and current status, dispelling myths about coyotes, and what to do if you encounter a coyote. This program is best suited for ages 16 and up. The program is free but pre-registration is required as seating is limited. Call Bryan Kay, Division of Wildlife at (330) 245-3026 or email Bryan.Kay@dnr.state.oh.us. Learn more about coyotes in Ohio at www.wildohio.com. NWTF From Page 13
The National Wildlife Federation has worked to connect children and youth with nature for decades, inspiring children through Ranger Rick magazine, working with educators to get kids learning outdoors, and helping parents find new ways to engage their children outside. “Wildlife Nation is about one thing: Inspiring people to go out and enjoy wildlife,” said Liljegren. “Each person has a story to tell and every one of us can help make a difference so that kids can enjoy wildlife now and for years to come.” The National Wildlife Federation is America’s largest conservation organization inspiring Americans to protect wildlife for our children’s future.
February 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
WV Hunters Harvest 150,268 Deer in 2013
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — Preliminary counts of game checking tags indicate West Virginia hunters harvested a total of 150,268 white-tailed deer during the recently completed bucks-only, antlerless, muzzleloader, archery and Youth/Class Q/Class XS deer seasons, according to Division of Natural Resources Director Frank Jezioro. This year’s total harvest was 14 percent above the 2012 deer harvest of 132,261. Antlerless Deer Season The 2013 antlerless deer season harvest of 57,350, which includes the Youth/Class Q/Class XS deer season, was 28 percent above 2012 and 24 percent above the five-year average of 46,105. “It is important to note that the antlerless harvest is the key component to any deer management strategy, as it controls the future deer population,” said Jezioro. Antlerless hunting seasons were liberalized in many counties in 2013, with all or portions of 51 of
the 55 counties open to antlerless firearms season. Hunters could harvest one to three antlerless deer, depending on the county. “This increase in hunting opportunity led to an increase in the harvest,” Jezioro said. The top 10 counties are: Mason (2,526), Jackson (2,523), Preston (2,335), Wood (2,220), Roane (2,150), Ritchie (1,990), Lewis (1,982), Upshur (1,771), Monroe (1,698) and Wetzel (1,658). Muzzleloader Deer Season The 2013 muzzleloader harvest of 7,316 was 37 percent more than the 2012 harvest of 5,345, but was 2.5 percent below the five-year average of 7,507. “The muzzleloader season harvest appears to have rebounded from the effects of the change in season dates first made in 2012,” Jezioro said. The top 10 counties are: Randolph (322), Braxton (312), Preston (249), Nicholas (247), Lewis (235), Fayette (232), Greenbrier (219), Upshur (212), Mason (209) and
Ritchie (208). Archery Deer Season The bow hunters take of 28,574 deer was 11 percent above the 2012 harvest of 25,714, and 6 percent above the five-year average harvest of 26,994. Archery harvests are correlated to hard mast crops and the below-average acorn crop was a significant factor for the higher harvest in 2013. The top 10 counties are: Preston (1,040), Kanawha (1,031), Wyoming (953), Raleigh (875), Wood (872), Logan (840), Fayette (796), Randolph (768), Monongalia (741), and Nicholas (738).
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Pam Williams 1st deer, muzzleloader Jefferson County, OH
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April George, age 11 jake, 17lb, shotgun Columbiana County, OH
email to: ohvod@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com mail to: Photo Showcase 210 East Fourth St. East Liverpool, OH 43920
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16 New Reptile Brochure Available
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has a new Reptile and Amphibian Regulations brochure available, according to DNR Director Frank Jezioro. The brochure can be viewed by clicking on the publication image under regulations at www.wvdnr.gov/wf. It also can be found on the DNR home page under “Wildlife Diversity.” Paper copies are available in limited quantities at DNR district offices, the state headquarters in South Charleston, and the Elkins Operations Center. “Reptiles and amphibians are a valuable wildlife resource. The DNR established these regulations to provide opportunities for people to study, appreciate, and use the state’s natural heritage without harming reptile and amphibian populations,” Jezioro said. “The scientific community and conservation-minded individuals have been asking for these regulations, and we are pleased to be able to provide protections in this way.”
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
17
PHOTO SHOWCASE SPONSORED BY
Shannon Joy, age 16 1st deer, gun Warren County, PA
Will Grodhaus, age 14 6-pt., youth hunt Columbiana County, OH
Clayton D. Ware piebald buck, bow 23 yards Trumbull County, OH
February 2014
Bryan Soldo 10-pt., 1st deer Columbiana County, OH
Dustin Piatt elk Liberty,Utah
Send Us Your Photos
Gary English elk Liberty,Utah
Tim Vlaiku 13-pt., 19-7/16" spread Carroll County, OH
Seth Utt largemouth bass Trent River, Ontario
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
February 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
Ohio Valley Outdoors
Taxidermy Championships Set for April
WILMINGTON, OH —The Ohio Taxidermy Association (OTA) will again host the Ohio Taxidermy Championships. The three-day event is scheduled for April 4, 5, 6 at the Roberts Centre in Wilmington, Ohio. All taxidermists are welcome and many will be competing for State Champion Awards as well as many other prestigious awards. The show will also feature a Wildlife Mount Display, consisting of several hundred artistically crafted mounts. The Wildlife Display is open to the public one day only, Saturday April 5, from 1 to 3 p.m. and is free of charge. The OTA is inviting taxidermists of all skill levels to attend the entire event, including amateurs and youth, as well as those interested in learning the art of taxidermy. For a nominal membership fee, you will benefit greatly from the
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many seminars, discounted supplies and interaction with a host of professionals. There are numerous awards for those who choose to compete, including the prestigious State Champion Medallions. Participants must register and can do so at the show or by mail. Check their website for early registration discounts. Registration at the show will begin April 4 at noon and runs to 7 p.m. and again on April 5 (8 a.m. to 11 a.m.). The Roberts Centre is located between Columbus and Cincinnati at 123 Gano Road, Wilmington Oh, 45177, just off I71 at exit #50. Call 1-800-654-7036 and ask for taxidermist’s rate. For information about the show, joining OTA and registration, log on to www.ohiotaxidermists.com or call Casey, 419-362-1060 or Rod, 330- 2318508.
Ohio Wind Turbine Project Stopped
The Associated Press TOLEDO, OH (AP) — A group of birding enthusiasts hopes a decision to halt plans for a wind turbine at an Ohio National Guard base will send a message to developers proposing other wind power projects along Lake Erie. Federal officials sent notice this past week that they are pulling back from building the proposed wind turbine just weeks after two organizations threatened to take legal action. The American Bird Conservancy and the Black Swamp Bird Observatory argued that the wind turbine would endanger migrating birds and bald eagles while also violating several federal laws designed to protect those birds. The wind turbine slated to go up in just a few months at the guard’s Camp Perry site east of Toledo is one of about two dozen wind energy projects in the
planning stages along Lake Erie in Ohio, according to the American Bird Conservancy. What upset the birding enthusiasts is that the Camp Perry site is in the middle of a hotspot for migrating birds. Bird watchers blanket the area in early May to see several hundred species that stop at the marshes and rocky shoreline to rest and refuel. “It’s probably one of the top five migration corridors in the U.S.,” said Robert Johns, a spokesman for the American Bird Conservancy. There are about 60 bald eagle nests within 10 miles of the wind turbine, she said. President Barack Obama’s administration, which wants to increase the development of green energy, announced in December it would allow some companies to kill or injure bald and golden eagles for up to 30 years without penalty.
February 2014
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Tom Butch Named to Land Conservancy Board
MORELAND HILLS, OH - Western Reserve Land Conservancy, a Moreland Hills-based nonprofit conservation organization, has named Tom Butch, Ruth Swetland Eppig, Nancy Rubin and Craig Owen White to its Board of Trustees. The Land Conservancy, formed in 2006 by the merger of eight local land trusts, has permanently preserved 533 properties and more than 38,000 acres in northern and eastern Ohio. In addition, its Thriving Communities Institute helps revitalize urban centers across the state. Butch, who lives in Salem in Columbiana County and holds a bachelor’s degree in Conservation and Natural Resources from Kent State University, was a mineral resource inspector with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources for 28 years before his retirement in 2012. A conservation-minded community leader, Butch sits on the Columbiana County Park District Board of Commissioners, is on the board of trustees for the Community Action Agency of Columbiana County and formerly served on the county Soil and Water Conservation District’s Board of Supervisors.
Biologists Propose Removing Bobcats from Ohio’s Threatened List
COLUMBUS, OH — The Ohio Wildlife Council received proposed changes to several species designations, including bobcats, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). The ODNR Division of Wildlife biologists submitted a proposal to remove the bobcat from Ohio’s threatened species list. The bobcat was one of 71 species on Ohio’s first endangered list in 1974. However, the bobcat population began to rebound in the 1970s, and in recent years the number of verified sightings has continued to increase, prompting the status change from endangered to threatened in 2012. Bobcats are still considered a protected species in Ohio with no hunting or trapping season. Three other species were proposed to be changed on Ohio’s state-designated species. A fourth was added as a species of concern, and this designation does not require council action. Snowshoe Hares Now endangered, snowshoe hares
Butch is an officer in both the Leetonia Sportsmans Club and the Columbiana County Federation of Conservation Clubs, and he is active in many other conservation organizations, including the Friends of Allegheny Wilderness, Tom Butch League of Ohio Sportsman, Izaak Walton League of America and Ohioans for Wildlife Conservation. He has also been a hunter education instructor for the Ohio Division of Wildlife for 15 years. Eppig, who holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental biology from Smith College, is president of the Sears-Swetland Family Foundation, which she operates with her brother and daughters. She lives in Bratenahl with her husband, Dr. Michael Eppig, an orthopaedic spine surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic. Eppig currently serves on the board and is past chairman of the Cleveland Botanical Garden board of trustees,
were proposed to be changed to a species of concern. Translocated hares have not been detected in Ohio since 2010 as the population has declined. Bewick’s Wren Presently listed as endangered, the Bewick’s wren is proposed to move to extirpated. A Bewick’s wren nest was last confirmed in Ohio in 1995. Smooth Greensnake Currently a species of concern, the smooth greensnake is proposed to move to the endangered list. This rare snake has lost much of its habitat and range in Ohio. Eastern Hog-Nosed Snake The Eastern hog-nosed snake will now be listed as a species of concern in Ohio. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
Winter Waterfowl Survey Results
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — Wildlife biologists in West Virginia counted 8,797 ducks and 6,709 Canada geese during the annual mid-winter waterfowl survey conducted in early January, according to Steve Wilson, waterfowl biologist for the West Virginia
serves as a vice president on the board of the Cleveland Institute of Art, and is a member of the Committee for Advancement of Academic Medicine under the Dean of the School of Medicine at CWRU. The Eppigs are passionate about about sustainability, urban revitalization and environmental health, and hosted the EverGreen EverBlue fundraiser at their former Shaker Heights home. Rubin, of Pepper Pike, is president of Cleveland-based N.G. Rubin & Associates, LLC, a firm specializing in financial assessment and management for early stage to medium size companies. Its clients include life sciences, healthcare, manufacturing, telecommunications, information technology, distribution and professional services companies. Rubin, who holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Kent State University and an MBA in finance from Cleveland State University, has been president of the Geauga Humane Society/Rescue Village Foundation board since 2008. White, a graduate of Williams College and the University of Virginia School of Law, is a partner with Cleveland-based law firm Hahn Loeser & Parks LLC, where he focuses his practice on repre-
Division of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Section. “Duck numbers were the highest since 2001, 67 percent higher than 2013 and 123 percent above the 10-year average,” Wilson said. “Canada goose numbers were up 7 percent from the previous year and their numbers were 40 percent above the long-term average.” The increase was not unexpected due to the weather that occurred in December. When cold weather freezes up smaller, still water and there is snow covering farm fields, waterfowl are pushed south and/or forced to concentrate on larger bodies of water that are not frozen. “Waterfowl seasons are open through most of January, so hunters should be enjoying a great late season,” Wilson said. Canada geese, mallards and black ducks, as usual, were the most commonly observed species in the 2014 survey. Many other waterfowl species were also observed, including canvasback, green-winged teal, pintail, widgeon, ring-necked duck, redhead, bufflehead, wood duck, gadwall, mergansers, snow geese and tundra swans. Five adult and five juvenile bald eagles and three golden eagles also were observed.
19 senting and counseling established and growth-oriented companies in mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, enterprise governance, financing and licensing issues, both domestically and internationally. His role as a legal advisor to businesses is complemented by his experience as a corporate counselor, which includes service as a member of Great Lakes Cheese Co., Inc., one of the largest privately-owned food companies in the U.S. He also serves as the primary U.S. corporate counsel for Head NV, a European-based international sports equipment conglomerate. White, who lives in Russell Townshp, lectures internationally on issues of global commerce and enterprise governance, delivering an annual series in Lusaka, Zambia and Johannesburg, South Africa. He also serves on the boards of the International Senior Lawyers Project, the Western Reserve Historical Society and the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio. White was recently appointed by the United States Trade Representative to serve on the Trade Advisory Committee on Africa to provide advice in the establishment of United States trade policy throughout Africa. http://www.wrlandconservancy.org/
The survey was conducted Jan. 8-10, 2014, and included portions of the Kanawha, Ohio, Shenandoah and New rivers as well as Tygart and Bluestone lakes.
WV Hunters Harvest 1,013 Fall Turkeys
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — Preliminary figures for the West Virginia 2013 fall turkey hunting season show a harvest of 1,013 turkeys, according to Curtis I. Taylor, chief of the Division of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Section. The 2013 statewide harvest was 20 percent lower than 2012 and 12 percent below the five-year average. Only District 2 in the Eastern Panhandle showed an increase (29 percent) in harvest while the other districts experienced declines. The decline in harvest occurred despite more counties being open for fall hunting than in 2012. “Fall wild turkey harvests are highly influenced by hunter participation, annual turkey poult recruitment, and hard mast conditions,” said Taylor. “Turkey brood observations this past summer were down slightly from 2012 and considerably below the 5-year average.
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