Ohio Valley Outdoor Times 5-2014

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FR EE!

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Bowhunting Groundhogs Story inside page 5

Allegheny River Walleye Survey OV Outdoor Times

Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission assessments of the Allegheny River’s walleye fishery conducted over the last six years have provided insight regarding natural reproduction, the By Jeff Knapp level at which river- Fishing Editor bred fish have survived to become adults, and also the significance of a native river-strain walleye. As part of its current walleye management plan, supplemental stockings of walleye in the Allegheny were discontinued in 2007 to determine if natural reproduction was adequate to maintain a high-quality fishery. Prior to this stockings of fry and fingerling-stage walleyes occurred regularly from the Kinzua Dam tailrace downriver to Lock and Dam 6 near Clinton. Stockings downstream of Lock and Dam 6 were relatively rare, with four plantings that occurred in 1976, 1977, 1980 and 1983. All were in the extreme lower end of the Allegheny between the Monongahela River confluence and the Highland Park Dam. The portion of Allegheny River — that which was evaluated for walleyes — ex-

Outdoor Times May 2014

ists as both a free-flowing river and one with impoundments. The free-flowing portion flows from the Kinzua Dam tailrace down to the East Brady. From East Brady to Pittsburgh it’s impounded by eight navigational lock and dams, which elevate the river to a level adequate to accommodate commercial traffic. For the past six years the Fish and Boat Commission has evaluated the Allegheny’s walleye population at nine separate sites, six in the free-flowing portion and three in the impounded lower section. The upper sites included the Kinzua tailwaters, Starbrick, Tidioute, Tionesta, President, and Oil City; lower sites were East Brady, Templeton and Freeport. The annual fall assessments were targeted at young-of-year walleyes (less than nine inches); adult walleyes were also collected. The method of collection was nighttime electrofishing, with the numbers of fish collected per hour of effort being the gauge used in the evaluation. Catch rates of Y-O-Y walleyes captured at 20 per hour, and legal walleyes (15 inches or longer) at twoper-hour, were the targeted goals, levels the agency has determined translate into a quality fishery for anglers. The young-of-year catch results are thought-provoking,” said PFBC Three Rivers Fisheries Biologist Bob Ventorini. “Over a six-year period, President and Freeport only met the target catch rate once, while Tidioute was the least Turn To Walleye Page 4

Ohio Valley

Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of Kevin Courtney

Luke Courtney, age 8 1st turkey, 20lb. Columbiana County, OH


OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

5 Bowhunting

14 Archery in Schools

Ohio Approves Some Rifles for Deer Hunting

15 PA 2014-15 Hunting

Fisherman Takes WV Record Blue Catfish

16 Marketing Effort to Focus on Anglers, Boaters

7

Ralph Scherder

WVDNR

Groundhogs

9

Training Set in WV

ODNR

Seasons Approved

The Associated Press

10

Liberty Ammunition: Taking Ammo to a New Level Bill Waugaman

13 Duffus, Hill Win

12 Report: Fewer Limits, More

Walleye Madness Opener

Concealed Guns in Ohio

OUTDOOR CALENDAR

Free Kid’s Fishing Tournament - May 18 (1:30-4:30 p.m.) at Chester-Newell Sportsmen Club, Gas Valley Road, New Manchester, WV 26056. Located behind Green Valley Dairy. Kids ages 315. Worms provided, free food, trophies and prizes. For info. call 330-383-1886 or 304 387-0095. Pymatuning Lake Panfish Tournament - May 18 at Manning Launch. Reg. at 5:30 a.m. Event from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Weigh-in to follow. $50 per team. Hosted by Northeast Panfish League. Contact: www.nepanfish.com. Oakridge Pointing Dog Club Field Trial - May 24-25 at PA Brittany Club Grounds, 2546 Kerr Rd., Polk, PA 16342. Website: www.oakridgepointingdogs.com. Mail entries to: Beky Davis, 5448 Virginia Dr., Austintown, OH 44515 or email: bekydavis@zoominternet.net. Walleye Madness Tournaments - June 28 at Lake Erie at Geneva. 100% payout, plus $700 in bonuses per event. Entry fee $150. To register: www.walleyemadness.net. * See Page 19 for more events.

Ohio Valley

May 2014

crew who are helping to run the tournaments this year. They’ve done a great job carrying on the torch. Buckeye Sports Center, Lund Boats and Mercury Marine are the title sponsors for WMT. JC helped secure those last year. JC didn’t fish or attend the April WMT event this year, mostly for fear that some may think he was still running the event. He said some still feel that way, which doesn’t make any sense. Some people will never be happy. They keep coming back to fish though. Wonder why? Thanks my friend.

The “Mart Brothers” My research for a forthcoming article in the Summer Issue of Ohio Valley Outdoors magazine (our sister publication) led me to kick up some hard feelings about big box stores and local economies. Yes the Walmart’s of the world have driven away several small outdoor businesses over the years. Several years ago veteran outdoor writer D’Arcy Egan penned “the Mart Brothers” phrase while referring to Walmart and KMart gouging prices to hurt the smaller competition. The comparisons of “the Mart Brothers” have cycled back with the recent expansion of what I call “the mini Cabela’s” outdoor shops. What spurred my interest in this story was the recent opening — and excitement — of a new 30,000 square foot Fin, Feathers and Fur store in Boardman, OH. And The Fin is not the only retailer to open super ‘satellite’ stores in the region. One retailer has dubbed two of their locations as a “Super Store” and the other “Mega Store”. Is it just firearms that is driving this new generation of outdoor stores? Read more about this topic in OVOM, which hits newsstands June 1.

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

Outdoor Times May 2014

Thanks My Friend

I have to stick up for my friend on this one. All he wanted to do was leave the walleye tournament world in peace and have it be much better than when he got there — which was nearly a decade ago. You see, JC Csizma- By Larry Claypool dia is and was a tireless Editor worker and fought all the way to improve on a sport that he just loves. It has been a passion, and it’s surely showed. Why would I need to stick up for my friend? Well people tried to beat him up for trying to improve himself and the sport of walleye tournament fishing. He was, and is, a great ambassador for the sport. And so many people have benefitted from his work — some in their wallets. For tournament fisherman that’s a couple loan payments on the boat. JC has run, or helped run, many nonprofit fishing clubs and tournaments over the years. Most recently it was his quest to start and run the Walleye Madness Tournaments in northeast Ohio. In only it’s second year the WMT is fast becoming the top walleye event in the region. Their first event this year (April at Mosquito Lake) featured a full 40-boat field and 100% payout, something unheard of in this region (see the results on Page 13). And the winners took home a $2,500 check too. The total prize money was $6,000, plus $700 in contingency bonuses. That’s impressive. JC won’t take credit for running this year’s WMT event. His ‘retirement’ came after the 2013 fishing season. He did keep things going from last year and steered the ship until his replacements would take over this season. So much credit goes to the fine folks at Buckeye Sports Center and their OV Outdoor Times

INSIDE THIS MONTH

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Graphics Designer, Linda McKenzie lmckenzie@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com

VOL. 6, NO. 05

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

©

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

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


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4 Walleye From Page 1

productive, not meeting our Walleye Plan objective in any surveyed year. Kinzua did not perform that well, either, over four years of surveys. On the other hand, Oil City met or exceeded the target catch rate half of the time, while Templeton performed the best of the sites surveyed — meeting or exceeding our expectations for young-of-year walleye for all six years.” Ventorini also noted that the most productive year for natural reproduction of walleye (within the past six years) in the Allegheny River appeared to be 2010. Fluctuations in hatch success from year to year are common in rivers, influenced by factors such as weather, water levels, predation, food sources for fry, and availability of spawning habitat. However, low young-of-year catch rates haven’t translated into low numbers of legal walleyes. For instance both Tidioute and Kinzua produced a high level of legal fish, averaging four to five times the two-fish-per-hour rate during the survey period. Ventorini said it’s likely that differences in habitat within the survey areas impacts the numbers of fish collected, factors such as available shallow water

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

cover and access to deep water. For instance, young-of-year walleyes were collected in good numbers at Oil City and Templeton, where a narrow fringe of weeds gives way to deep water, indicating perhaps that the young fish were concentrated in the available cover. Legal walleyes showed up in much higher numbers at upper Allegheny River sites like Tidioute and Kinzua tailwaters, where the survey site is comparatively shallow, and the fish more susceptible to being stunned by the shock of the electrofishing gear than at other sites, such as the three in the impounded river section. A highlight of the 2013 work also produced several trophy sized walleyes, including the two biggest ever collected during Allegheny River surveys, which weighed 12 pounds, 10 ounces; and 12 pounds, eight ounces. In addition to valuable information regarding natural reproduction — and how that is translating into adult fish for anglers — the 2013 survey will also provide important data relative to the “Highlands” walleye strain, one native to the Ohio River drainage. Ventorini cited work being done by Matt White, Ph.D., a biology professor at Ohio University in Athens. The Highlands strain

May 2014

Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Jeff Knapp

PFBC personnel with a 12-pound walleye captured during an Allegheny River survey.

is a river fish, unlike the Lake Erie walleye strain. Walleye brood stock in Pennsylvania come from the Lake Erie strain, hatched and reared primarily at the Commission’s Linesville hatchery, and are adapted to lake environments. Dr. White and his colleagues at Ohio University have revealed two different lineages,” Ventorini noted. “Characteristic differences were found between the

genetically distinct and widely-stocked Lake Erie Walleye strain and native Highlands walleye strain — named after a strain found in the Ohio River, the New and Kanawha rivers in West Virginia, and the Cumberland River in Kentucky. Their goal has been to determine the distribution of the native Highlands strain and to identify those populations Turn To Walleye Page 9


May 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Bowhunting for Groundhogs OV Outdoor Times

Groundhog hunting fires me up. I’m not sure exactly why. Maybe it’s because groundhog hunting helps me pass the summer quickly, and I know I’ll be chasing deer in no time. Or maybe it’s simply be- By Ralph Scherder cause I love the thrill Hunting Editor of being out in the fields stalking woodchucks. Or, it could be that if I pull it off, I know I’ve hunted well. Groundhogs are a tough quarry. When bowhunting for groundhogs, I like to use suspended belief. Sure, it may be only a grass-eating, hole-digging varmint standing 30 yards away, but I can imagine it’s a 10-point P&Y whitetail. Suddenly, I am overtaken by a bad case of the shakes and my heart’s pounding as I slink through the soybeans to get closer for a perfect shot. A few more steps and he’s mine. Am I good enough to score? That’s the challenge! Groundhog hunting can be downright

awesome if you are hunting an area with high populations, because you’ll get lots of action. Add in the enjoyment of being in the field observing nature, and it’s sure to be a good time. In addition, I have found more than one fantastic deer hunting spot thanks to my groundhog hunting excursions. Summer is a great time to start scouting for deer or turkeys. Most hunters don’t take groundhog hunting seriously. Typically, summer is known as the “off-season” and archers turn to shooting 3-D competitions to hone skills. However, the ultimate way to sharpen skills is in the field, and stalking within bow range of a woodchuck is a lot harder than stalking a 3-D target. Groundhogs have keen noses, and I’ve had more than one stalk foiled by a shift in wind direction. It’s amazing to me not only the amount of time they spend in their dens, but the length of time they can stand on their haunches, statue-like, staring you down or checking the wind. Though complete camouflage is unnecessary, I recommend dark clothing.

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Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Ralph Scherder

The ultimate way to sharpen skills is in the field, and stalking within bow range of a woodchuck is a lot harder than stalking a 3-D target.

Movement is what catches their eyes. They can easily spot the slightest movement at a fair distance.

By far the best time to hunt groundhogs is during mornings and evenings Turn To Groundhog Page 6


6 Groundhog From Page 5

when dew covers the vegetation, or after a summer rain. Moist vegetation is the primary source of water for groundhogs, and nothing gets them out and feeding like a good dousing of rain. I’ve hunted areas seemingly void of hogs only to go back after a rain and see them crawling in every field. In the early summer months, before dispersal in July, whole groups can be found feeding together in rain-dampened fields. This makes for some exciting hunting, because you have to fool not one animal, but three or four. Only one has to hint at danger and they all scramble for safety. As you walk through crop-damaged areas, notice that deer and turkeys tend to trample an area completely – cornstalks are torn down, wheat and oats pounded flat. The area looks like a UFO landed. In contrast, groundhogs make small circular patterns where they feed. Commonly they den inside treelines adjacent to fields and usually enter the fields at the same spot every time. Upon entering, they feed in a loop and exit at about the same point where they entered. These entry/exit points are good ambush points if you have the patience to wait

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

for a hog to come out. When weeds are high before the first cutting, I prefer still-hunting along crop changes for field-denning hogs. There is usually a bare strip of dirt between crop changes that makes for some quiet walking. Whether hunting groundhogs or monster whitetails, patience and listening are a major part of still-hunting. Many times I have been creeping through a field and heard the wheat rustling beside me and stopped to see a feeding hog only 10 feet away. Usually, they are so busy chomping on wheat thistles they never even know I’m there – until they literally feel my presence, if you catch my drift. After the crops are cut, sitting and spotting hogs from a distance and stalking them is definitely the way to go. Good binoculars are a must. Again, this can be a challenging hunt, because stalking within range of hogs in open fields is no easy task. I plan a route and use all available cover, terrain, and stealth, just as I would for deer. Arrows used for big game will work on groundhogs, but carbon arrows are best, simply for their durability. I can go through quite a few thin-walled alu-

minum arrows in a summer of hoggin’. Most of the shooting is close range, 10 to 15 yards, so I want a shaft that can take the punishment of repeated kills – and misses. Many hunters, myself included, use the same broadheads for groundhogs that they use for deer. That’s fine, but I recommend placing a “spur” on the shaft behind the broadhead. The spur keeps the arrow from going completely through and prevents the groundhog from slipping down its hole right away. Open-on-impact broadheads also are deadly on hogs. Perhaps the greatest benefit of hunting groundhogs, besides enjoying nature all summer long, is that you are helping farmers get rid of unwanted pests. Woodchucks burrow large holes that cause damage to both machinery and livestock. Rarely has a farmer denied me permission to hunt groundhogs. Further, by providing a service to them, I have found it easier to get permission to hunt deer in the fall. Trust me, farmers will remember you. I know, imagining a groundhog as a record-book whitetail is a stretch. And, granted, harvesting a varmint doesn’t create quite the adrenaline rush of harvesting a large-antlered buck. But

May 2014

groundhog hunting guarantees a lot more action, and if you can consistently still-hunt or stalk within range of wary hogs, you’re a master bowhunter indeed. And after a summer of building your confidence and sharpening your skills on groundhogs, you’ll be more than ready when that big buck ambles by in the fall.

Beginning Fly-Fishing Workshop Set

XENIA, OH — Anglers interested in learning the art of fly tying and fishing are invited to attend a free workshop sponsored the Division of Wildlife according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Instructors will offer the workshop at the Wildlife District Five Headquarters from 9 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on June 6, 2014. All fishing equipment and tying supplies will be provided. Youth must be accompanied by an adult. Please pre-register by calling Brant Fulks, Wildlife Communications Specialist, at 937.347.0929 or emailing brant.fulks@dnr.state.oh.us. Registration deadline is May 30, 2014.


May 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Ohio Approves Some Center Fire Rifles for Deer Hunting

COLUMBUS, OH — Ohio deer hunters can now use rifles with straightwalled cartridges after final approval came April 9 by the Ohio Wildlife Council. This new regulation will be in effect during the 2014 deer-gun week. The Council also approved new regulations that decrease deer bag limits in many counties. The council also voted to remove bobcats from Ohio’s list of threatened species. The Ohio Wildlife Council voted to approve deer hunting proposals prepared by ODNR Division of Wildlife biologists. The 20142015 deer hunting season dates will remain largely consistent with previous years. One change in season dates included adjusting deer-muzzleloader season to begin on Jan. 2, 2015, and end on Monday, Jan. 5, compared to last year when the season began on a Saturday and concluded on a Tuesday. The October

antlerless deer-muzzleloader weekend will be held for the second year. Deer hunting seasons for 2014-2015: • Deer archery: Sept. 27, 2014 - Feb. 1, 2015. • Antlerless deer muzzleloader: Oct. 11-12, 2014. • Youth deer gun: Nov. 22-23, 2014. • Deer gun: Dec. 1-7, 2014. • Deer muzzleloader: Jan. 2-5, 2015. The Ohio Wildlife Council also approved changes to Ohio’s list of endangered and threatened species. The bobcat, previously threatened, was removed from the list. Bobcats are still considered a protected species in Ohio with no hunting or trapping season. The snowshoe hare was changed to a species of concern, Bewick’s wren was changed to extirpated and smooth greensnakes were changed to endangered. Small-game hunting and furbearer

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trapping season dates were also passed on Wednesday. Season dates and bag limits for migratory birds, including mourning dove, Canada goose, rail, moorhen, snipe, woodcock and waterfowl will be set in August in compliance with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s framework. The Ohio 2014-2015 hunting and trapping season dates can be found at bit.ly/1415Ohiohuntingseason. Deer bag limits reflect the reduction in the deer population in many counties as numbers continue to move closer to target levels. Bag limits were reduced in 44 counties, increased in five counties and 39 counties stayed the same as last season. Antlerless tags are eliminated in some counties as deer populations approach target levels. Antlerless tags were introduced as a way to reduce Ohio’s deer herd, and have been successful, thereby eliminating their need in certain counties. County deer bag limits: • Two (no more than one antlerless permit): Auglaize, Darke, Fayette, Hancock, Madison and Mercer counties.

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• Three (antlerless permits are not valid): Belmont, Carroll, Coshocton, Defiance, Fairfield, Fulton, Gallia, Geauga, Greene, Guernsey, Hardin, Harrison, Hocking, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Knox, Lawrence, Meigs, Miami, Monroe, Morrow, Muskingum, Noble, Perry, Richland, Van Wert, Washington and Williams counties. • Three (no more than one antlerless permit): Adams, Allen, Ashland, Ashtabula, Athens, Butler, Champaign, Clark, Clint o n , Columbiana, Crawford, Erie, Henry, Highland, Huron, Licking, Logan, Lorain, Marion, Medina, Morgan, Ottawa, Paulding, Pickaway, Pike, Preble, Putnam, Ross, Sandusky, Scioto, Seneca, Shelby, Trumbull, Tuscarawas, Union, Vinton, Wayne, Wood and Wyandot counties. • Four (no more than one antlerless permit): Brown, Clermont, Cuyahoga, Delaware, Franklin, Hamilton, Lake, Lucas, Mahoning, Montgomery, Portage, Stark, Summit and Warren counties. The council also approved straightwalled cartridge rifles for deer hunting. Turn To Rifles Page 8


8 Rifles From Page 7

The rifles are the same caliber and use the same straight-walled cartridges that are currently legal for use in handguns. The new regulation is designed to allow additional opportunities for hunters that own these guns or want to hunt with these guns. These rifles have reduced recoil compared to larger shotguns, and the rifles are more accurate than the same caliber handgun. Legal deer hunting rifles are chambered for the following calibers: .357 Magnum, .357 Maximum, .38 Special, .375 Super Magnum, .375 Winchester, .38-55, .41 Long Colt, .41 Magnum, .44 Special, .44 Magnum, .444 Marlin, .45 ACP, .45 Colt, .45 Long Colt, .45 Winchester Magnum, .45 Smith & Wesson, .454 Casull, .460 Smith & Wesson, .4570, .45-90, .45-110, .475 Linebaugh, .5070, .50-90, .50-100, .50-110 and .500 Smith & Wesson. A new regulation states shotguns and straight-walled cartridge rifles used for deer hunting be loaded with no more than three shells in the magazine and chamber combined. The current hunting regulation states a shotgun must be plugged if it is capable of holding more than three shells. New next year, youth hunters can har-

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

vest 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 change does not take effect until 2015. The bag limit remains one wild turkey for the two-day 2014 youth wild turkey hunting season. The Ohio Wildlife Council is an eightmember board that approves all of the ODNR Division of Wildlife proposed rules and regulations. Small-game hunting and trapping seasons were proposed at the Ohio Wildlife Council’s January meeting. Open houses to receive public comments about hunting, trapping and fishing regulations and wildlife issues were held on March 1, and a statewide hearing on all of the proposed rules was held on March 13. Open houses give the public an opportunity to view and discuss proposed fishing, hunting and trapping regulations with the ODNR Division of Wildlife officials. 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.

May 2014

Survey: What Types of

Recreation are Most Important?

HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania’s hunters, trappers, sport shooters and wildlife enthusiasts have the opportunity to make their opinions known. An online survey, the results of which will be considered as part of an update to the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, remains open and can be completed in minutes. Questions on hunting, conservation programs, wildlife habitat and land acquisitions are included on the survey. State agencies are working with experts across Pennsylvania to update the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, which will help to guide future recreation investments, policies and facilities through 2018. A new plan is required every five years in order for Pennsylvania to qualify for federal Land and Water Conservation funding. Citizen feedback is a component that’s important in building the plan’s goals. The online survey is one of three surveys that will be considered as part of Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation plan

update. A scientific survey was conducted earlier this year, and a survey of recreation providers also is being developed. The online survey is completely confidential and can be accessed at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/paoutd oorrec. The survey remains open until May 16. After feedback from all three surveys is analyzed, a draft plan will be written in late summer and will be available for review and comment on the plan’s website. Feedback sessions will allow citizens, providers and interested stakeholders to give their input before a final document is presented to the National Park Service later this year. Learn more at www.paoutdoorrecplan.com.

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May 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Fisherman Takes WV Record Blue Catfish

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Mentored Adult Hunting Progrom Approved

HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners recently approved a mentor-based program for first-time hunters 18 years old and older. Since 2006, the Game Commission has offered its Mentored Youth Hunting Program, which enables children under the age of 12 to obtain a permit and legally harvest select game species under the close supervision of a properly licensed adult mentor. The new Mentored Adult Hunting Program would follow a similar model, and aims to add to the ranks of hunters. Adults obtaining a permit through the program would be able to take part in hunting activities without first needing to take the basic Hunter-Trapper Education course. This would be a limited-term opportunity available to adults. Walleye From Page 4

Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of WV Dept. of Commerce

Austin Hoffman of Milton, WV, holds his state record 47.75-inch, 52.95 pound blue catfish, caught on the Ohio River.

SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV (AP) — A West Virginia fisherman has reeled in a state record blue catfish. The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources says the fish was caught by Austin Hoffman of Milton on April 26 along the Ohio River. Hoffman of Milton, W. Va., caught state record 47.75-inch, 52.95 pound blue catfish on the Ohio River below R.C. Byrd Dam in Gallipolis Ferry, WV, on April 26, 2014. Hoffman’s catch establishes a new West Virginia record for length and weight. The previous record was a 43.9-inch, 44.5-pound blue catfish caught by Mark A. Foster.

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Over low heat, melt merlot wine jelly in a sauce pan with olive oil. When jelly is thinned into a sauce pour or baste with a brush on fish.

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of natives that appear to have avoided hybridization with the introduced Lake Erie strain.” Ventorini said that PFBC personnel clipped fin samples of 155 walleyes collected at various sites during the 2013 field work. These samples were sent to Ohio University, adding that at this point about have of them have done. All of these samples have turned out to be Highlands River strain. With six years of research now complete, Ventorini expects the agency to make a decision within the next several months on whether to continue to suspension of walleye stocking on the Allegheny. He feels that the agency should continue to monitor the river’s walleye population, perhaps with a reduction in the number of survey sites. Hopefully the decision to stock or not stock will be made based on a consensus of a group of biologists, and not just one person,” Ventorini said. “My opinion is that the data supports not stocking walleye. My opinion will grow stronger if we find out that all or most of the fin clips we provided Dr. White were collected from Highlands strain walleye.”


May 2014

PRODUCT REVIEW

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

10

Liberty Ammunition:

Taking Personal Protection to a New Level (Part 1) OV Outdoor Times

Any time a new product goes to market, there is always the hype to go with it. Some of the most common superlatives include: ‘fastest’, ‘safest’, ‘most powerful’, ‘technologically advanced’ and By Bill Waugaman on, and on, and on. Your expectation level is set pretty high only to find out your results for the product are sometimes a serious letdown. When an email was sent to me about Liberty Ammunition putting on a demonstration at the Beaver Valley Rifle and Pistol Club, it was a tough choice deciding whether to go or not. Would this be just another over-glorified sales pitch? In hindsight, I’m glad I did. The demonstration was so compelling; I made a return trip the next day to get ad-

ditional information for this article. The Company – Liberty Ammunition was founded right after 9/11. The company’s mission was to develop technologically advanced, tactical ammunition for military and law enforcement use. Over the last 12 years, the ammunition developed for the military includes cartridges for battle use, for use by snipers and specialty rounds. In comparison to other military ammunition, Liberty promotes its ammunition as being more accurate, having extended effective range, improved penetrating capabilities and substantially improved terminal effects. In 2013, Liberty used its technology and patents to go one more step, further customizing its ammunition for use by law-abiding civilians. Their goal was to develop handgun ammunition that combines superior personal protection and performance. Liberty’s rifle ammunition takes hunting and personal protection to an entirely new level.

The Presenters – Liberty Ammunition was well represented at the demo by Matt Phillips, VP of Sales and Marketing, and Russ Datson, Director of Sales. Sam Piccinini, owner of Master-Ammo Company, which is the local distributor for Liberty, took the lead role for putting on the demo. His background includes 25 years in law enforcement with Rochester (PA) and Rochester Township, 20 of those years as a sniper and firearms instructor with the Beaver County E.S.U. If anyone would know and understand personal protection ammo, Piccinini would. Over the two hours, his enthusiasm did not falter; it was obvious, he really believes in Liberty Ammunition. The Demonstration – The demonstration consisted of five parts: chronograph readings, hydrostatic shock demonstra-

tions, ballistic gelatin demonstrations, terminal damage demonstrations and penetration. What made this presentation unique was Piccinini’s comparison of Liberty Ammo to other brands of personal protection ammunition that was supplied to him from the people in the audience. (Note: this offered a fair, unbiased comparison.) First, a chronograph was used to compare bullet velocities of Liberty ammunition and a variety of personal protection ammo from the audience. For the hydrostatic shock test, he did the same using Liberty ammo and ammo supplied by the audience. Gelatin block and terminal damage demonstrations were done likewise. Penetration tests were accomplished using a gelatin block behind various items such as Turn To LIBERTY Page 11


May 2014

LIBERTY From Page 10

Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Bill Waugaman

Leading a shooting demonstration recently at the Beaver Valley Rifle and Pistol Club for Liberty Ammunition was Sam Piccinini (foreground) and Matt Phillips.

jeans, a leather jacket, a sweatshirt, drywall, a windshield and a car door. Then, after all of the demonstrations, the audience was given the opportunity to test fire some Liberty Ammunition in their own handguns. The Ammo – Currently, Liberty Ammunition produces the Civil Defense

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

line that is available to the general public. This ammo is in .380, 9mm+P, .40 S&W, .45ACP+P and .223. Plans have been made to add .38’s and .357’s. The most noticeable feature about the handgun ammunition is the unbelievable muzzle velocities. Factory readings from a 4” barrel are 1500 fps (.380), 2000 fps (9mm+P and .40 S&W) and 1900 fps (.45ACP+P). These velocities are the direct result of the lightweight bullets used, 50 grain in .380 and 9mm+P, 60 grain in .40 S&W and 78 grain in .45ACP+P. The hollow point bullets are a monolithic copper construction (no lead) with nickel plating. The casings are also nickel-plated. My Observations from the Demonstration – • Until this demonstration, I didn’t believe a .380 had sufficient power to be used for self-defense. Liberty Ammunition in .380 is a game changer. • Liberty claims less recoil with their ammunition when compared to other brands of personal defense ammunition. I ran the ballistic information using the SAAMI formula for calculating Free Recoil Energy using .45ACP specs. Their claim is accurate. You can feel the difference. Less recoil means getting back on target quicker for subsequent

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shots, if necessary. same bullet could be negligent homicide • After impact, the front of the Liberty or manslaughter. bullet is designed to fragment into mul• The design and engineering technoltiple pieces leaving the base of the bul- ogy used in the development of this amlet intact as one piece. munition has definitely created • I saw personal protection ammuni- outstanding cartridges. It is impressive tion from some manufachow a bullet that would not penetrate a turers pass completely ballistic gelatin block could pass through a 16” through clothing, block of baldrywall, glass or listic gelatin. metal, and still With Liberty deliver terminal handgun amdamage. munition, Am I impenetration pressed with ranged from Liberty Ammu8” to 12”. nition for perEven the .223 sonal defense? Silverado did Absolutely. not penetrate Next month, Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Bill Waugaman the block watch for Part 2 Liberty used its advanced technology to develop the stopping in of this article Silverado hunting cartridge in .223 Rem. about 15”. that will inAt 3,000 fps, the 55 grain lead-free bullet Paraphrasing clude personal would be devastating for groundhogs and coyotes. P i c c i n i n i ’s testing results. comments, Contacts – Sam “…any time a bullet passes through the Piccinini (724-405-7486 or 724-624intended target, the person shooting 1766), info@masterammo.com could be in trouble. Yes, the perpetrator Matt Phillips (941-567-6178 x210) may be classified as a justifiable homi- mattphillips@libertyammo.com cide, but an innocent bystander or vic- Russ Datson (941-567-6178) russdattim of the perpetrator getting hit by the son@libertyammo.com


12

Report: Fewer Limits, More Concealed Guns in Ohio

The Associated Press

MANSFIELD, Ohio (AP) — More Ohioans are carrying concealed guns and with fewer restrictions 10 years after the state began allowing concealed carry guns. The bill’s sponsor and gun lobbyists predicted when the law was enacted that more than 150,000 people would sign up for concealed carry licenses the first few years, but that didn’t happen, the Mansfield News Journal http://bit.ly/1tRMsWm) reported. Anti-gun advocates predicted an increase in violence. Gun-related deaths have increased since then, largely caused by more suicides, but crime overall has decreased, according to state health department and the FBI’s Crime in the United States records. Research conducted on concealed carry laws’ effects on crime rates nationwide has been mixed. One clear change over the past decade has been a reduction in Ohio restrictions involving concealed handguns. They earlier couldn’t be carried in cars, purses and

May 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

bags. License renewals were required every four years along with a second competency test. Concealed carry guns weren’t allowed in bars or public parking lots, and local governments could implement their own, more restrictive licensing rules. Those restrictions have since been lifted. Gun advocates say changes were needed to get rid of rules that were too restrictive, while those opposing concealed carry say reduced restrictions encroach on the freedoms of Ohioans who don’t carry hidden guns. The number of new concealed carry permits issued to Ohioans has increased, doubling since 2010. Sheriff’s offices last year issued 96,972 new concealed handgun licenses, according to the newspaper. Since 2004, sheriff’s offices have issued more than 458,000 new concealed handgun licenses, according to annual attorney general’s office reports. That represents about 5 percent of the state’s adult population, assuming everyone renewed licenses and none were revoked. The biggest remaining restriction is “no

gun zones,” the newspaper reported. “A gun-free zone is a terrible thing,” said Jim Irvine,” chairman of the Buckeye Firearms Association. He said criminals will target gun-free zones because they know they won’t be stopped by a person with a gun. Irvine said he doesn’t support carrying concealed weapons in restricted areas such as prisons, courtrooms and airports, but believes most spaces should be fair game. But other off-limit areas don’t make sense, he said. You can drop your child off at school while carrying a concealed handgun in your vehicle, but if the child forgets a lunchbox, driving back into the school zone violates Ohio law. A bill before the General Assembly would change that. “That’s a pretty important fix there,” Irvine said. Toby Hoover, founder of the anti-gun Ohio Coalition Against Gun Violence, disagrees with eliminating gun-free zones. She says such zones give business owners the right to restrict firearm access on their property and give other citizens peace of mind. She also would like to see Ohio follow some other states in requiring individuals to prove they need a concealed carry license. “You would have to have a reason to get

one — if you are endangered in your job or for personal circumstances, feared for your life,” she said. “Not just anyone could get one.”

I’m Your Life Jacket, But You Don’t Know Me

By the BoatUS Foundation

ALEXANDRIA, VA — I’m your life jacket, but you don’t know me. I’m here to help you, maybe even safe your life - but only if you’re willing to take the help. Maybe National Safe Boating Week (May 17 - 23) will help remind everyone that I’m here for you? You think you may know me, but you really don’t. Because the law says you have to keep me aboard your boat, you think you’re safe. But you put me in places so hard to find, under piles of junk or buried in lockers so deep that no one will ever know who I am, especially if something happens to you, or if something bad happens very fast, like most accidents do. Of all of the fatal boating accident victims who drowned, almost 85% weren’t wearing a life jacket. I wish I had gotten to know that 85%. I’ll bet their families do, too. You’ve never taken me out of my new packaging, or let me meet your family or friends. You barely even talk about me. Everyone knows where to find the fishing

rods, the cooler full of drinks, or the sunscreen. But me? Hardly anyone knows I exist. About the only time you talk about me is when you take little boating guests aboard. You don’t like the way I feel on hot day? I don’t like the way you sweat either, but that doesn’t stop me from loving you. I’ve slimmed down a lot lately, lost a lot of my size and bulk, and given you lots of room to move around. If you don’t believe me, I have a lot of good, comfortable life jacket friends in all shapes, styles and sizes down at the boating supply store looking for a good home. Just remember, when you need me, I will be there for you. But only if I’m worn, or very easy to get to, like under your seat. While I’m a little hurt that you may not choose to wear me all of the time, try putting me on a little more frequently. Just try it. I won’t tell anyone you’re doing the right thing. I’m your life jacket. Remember that I’m here to save to your life, but only if you’ll let me.


May 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

13

Duffus, Hill Win Walleye Madness Opener

CORTLAND, OH — Challenging fishing started the day for the 80 anglers entered in the Walleye Madness Tournaments Mosquito Lake event in northeast Ohio on April 27. A full 40 boat tournament field held high hopes of capturing the spotlight, along with their share of the 100% tournament payout and sponsor contingency bonuses. The tournament also featured a Cabela’s NTC side pot with 15 teams in contention to win a paid entry and bonuses to the 2015 Cabela’s National Team Championship. First place was earned by Chris Duffus and Collin Hill with a 13.00-pound five fish tournament limit that also captured first place in the Cabela’s NTC side pot. Second place went to David Conant and Scott Geitgey with 12.70-pound that simultaneously captured the Mercury Marine Bonus and the WT6 contingency Bonus. Third place was awarded to Bret Berkey and Nate Arnold. Fourth place was captured by Rico Mixon and Marina Leydiker, with Sam Cappelli and Ted Jackson

rounding out the top five teams for the event. The Lund Boats Bonus was awarded to Amanda Yackmack and Joe Yackmack and the Buckeye Sports Center Big Fish bonus went to Chad Fenstermaker and Thomas Brenkert. Water temperatures hovered around 54 degrees and the primary bite consisted of trolling shad style crankbaits on leadcore line along with tactics targeting suspended fish. The first place team of Duffus and Hill concentrated their efforts north of the causeway in 8 to 13 feet of water. After losing a big fish early, they stayed with their primary pattern while the majority of the field moved south to deeper water. The final hour of the event was a hot bite flurry of doubles and triples with several teams racing the clock to upgrade their catch right up to the last available minute of fishing time. Walleye Madness Tournaments are sponsored by Buckeye Sports Center, Lund Boats and Mercury Marine. The series offers no-membership fee required

NRA National Sporting Arms Museum Tops 1/4 million

SPRINGFIELD, MO — Since it first opened its doors last summer, the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum at the Bass Pro Shops flagship superstore in Springfield, MO has attracted more than 263,200 guests with its impressive collection of sporting arms. Not only do individuals visit the NRA National Sporting Arms NRA National Sporting Arms Museum features Theodore Roosevelt Diorama Museum, but it’s become a popular destination for groups as well. “The museum was quite impressive,” said Jim Downing, a member of the National Congress of Old West Shootists and noted gun engraver from Springfield, MO. The Museum houses an important collection including the firearms owned by U.S. Presidents Theodore Roosevelt, Grover Cleveland and Dwight D. Eisenhower, the flintlock fowlers of English kings, guns of Annie Oakley as well as dioramas that trace the evolution of hunting, conservation and freedom. The museum features more than a thousand sporting arms from the 1600s to modern day. While all artifacts at the museum are incredible, the docents have noticed some displays are extremely popular. The fol-

lowing lists highlight museum guests’ favorite exhibits.

Ohio Spring Turkey Harvest Down

The Associated Press

Ohio Valley Outdoors–Submitted photo

Chris Duffus and Collin Hill won the 2014 Walleye Madness Tournament opener at Mosquito Lake.

100% payout tournaments, plus $700 per event in sponsor bonuses. Cabela’s National Team Championship qualifying is provided by the series affiliation with the national organization The Walleye Federation. Next up on the Walleye Madness Tournaments schedule is the June 28 Lake Erie event out of Geneva State Park. For more information visit www.walleyemadness.net.

COLUMBUS, OH — The Ohio Division of Wildlife reports that Ohio hunters checked 2,455 wild turkeys during the opening day of the 2014 wild turkey hunting season April 21. The top 10 counties for wild turkey harvest after the 2014-opening day of hunting were Harrison (82), Ashtabula (75), Trumbull (74), Columbiana (73), Belmont (71), Coshocton (71), Guernsey (69), Muskingum (68), Tuscarawas (68) and Meigs (66). Last year’s wild turkey hunters checked 2,762 birds on opening day.

Send us your t rophy photos

Top Large-Exhibit Cases 1. U.S. Martial Pistols 2. Timeline of American Sporting Arms 3. 21 Gun Salute to the American Armed Forces (2nd Amendment Gallery flag case) 4. Pachmayr Foundation Collection of Exceptional Custom Arms 5. Remington Factory Collection

Top Individual Artifacts 1. Girardoni Air Rifle, as used by Lewis & Clark 2. Holland & Holland .700 Nitro Express 3. Napoleon’s Flintlock Fowler 4. Tom Selleck’s Quigley Sharps 5. John Wayne’s Colt Bass Pro Shops NRA National Sporting Arms Museum in Springfield, Mo.The NRA National Sporting Arms Museum had its beginnings when Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops, visited the NRA National Firearms Museum in Fairfax, Va. The museum is located at 1935 S. Campbell in Springfield, Mo. The museum is open every day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and admission is free.

Pam Williams 1st deer, muzzleloader Jefferson County, OH

For our contests & Nikon Photo Showcase

April George, age 11 jake, 17lb, shotgun Columbiana County, OH

email to: ohvod@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com mail to: Photo Showcase 210 East Fourth St. East Liverpool, OH 43920

www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com


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May 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Archery in the Schools Training Set in WV

SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV — The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Section (DNR) will hold its next instructor training for the Archery in the Schools (AIS) Program July 8 and 9, 2014, at Pipestem Resort State Park, according to Krista Snodgrass, program coordinator. “We are very excited to be holding our next training at Pipestem Resort State Park,� said Snodgrass. “When possible, we like to provide trainings at our state parks and Pipestem is a perfect venue for PE teachers, coaches, and others wanting to get their schools involved in the AIS Program.� Nearly 90,000 West Virginia students have participated in the Archery in the Schools Program since it began in 2004. The AIS Program has become DNR’s largest-growing educational program. Since its inception in 2004, nearly 90,000 students have been introduced to archery as part of their physical education (PE) classes in more than 300 West Virginia schools. The program teaches

Olympic-style target archery in both public and private schools, grades 4 through 12. “In order for schools to participate in the AIS Program, they must first have a certified instructor, preferably a PE instructor or coach who will introduce as many kids as possible to the joys of target archery,� said Snodgrass. “DNR has about four trainings a year and, because class size is limited to 25, training slots fill quickly. As an added incentive, teachers taking this training may be eligible to receive Continuing Education Hours (CEHs), provided they submit their paperwork to their principal before the end of the school year.� To ensure a training slot, anyone interested in getting a school involved in the program is encouraged to apply as soon as possible, before the July 1 deadline. The training costs $25 for school employees and $50 for non-school employees. This fee will be paid to WVDNR Archery in the Schools Program (via check, money order or exact currency

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Nearly 90,000 West Virginia students have participated in the Archery in the Schools Program since it began in 2004.

only) during the first morning of the training. Registration for the AIS training at Pipestem Resort State Park is available online at http://naspbai.org/ClassSearch.aspx?cou ntry=US&state=WV . For information

on the AIS Program, please call Krista Snodgrass at 304-558-2771; email Krista.R.Snodgrass@wv.gov or visit the DNR’s AIS website at www.wvdnr.gov/archery. For more information on Pipestem Resort State Park, visit www.pipestemresort.com.

Power Out at Tomlinson Run Campground

NEW MANCHESTER, WV — A power disruption has occurred in the campground at Tomlinson Run State Park near New Manchester in Hancock County, according to Park Superintendent Sam Morris. Electrical service to all other facilities at the park is not affected. Tomlinson Run campground is open, but with limited services offered. Campers will pay a special $15 per night rate until power is restored. The normal rate for campsites with electricity is $24 per night. The 54-site campground at Tomlinson Run features a convenience store, dump station, two bathhouses, hot showers and laundry facilities. All sites are suitable for tent or trailer and feature picnic tables and grills, while 39 sites feature electric hookups. The campground opened April 1 and remains in operation through Oct. 31. For updates on the electrical system situation or information about activities at Tomlinson Run State Park, visit www.tomlinsonrunsp.com or call 304-564-3651.


May 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

PA 2014-15 Hunting Seasons Approved

HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners have set hunting and bag limits for the 2014-15 license year, which begins July 1. A list of all seasons and bag limits appears at the end of this news release. The board voted to allocate 779,500 antlerless deer licenses statewide. Hunting licenses for 2014-15 go on sale in mid-June and become effective July 1. After hunters purchase a general hunting license, they may apply for antlerless deer licenses based on staggered timelines, which will be outlined in the 2014-15 Pennsylvania Hunting & Trapping Digest presented to each license buyer. The 2014-15 digest also will be available at the Game Commission’s website, www.pgc.state.pa.us in mid-June. The board also voted to issue 108 elk licenses (27 antlered, 81 antlerless) for the 2014 hunt. While the licenses again will be awarded by lottery, the application process will follow an expedited schedule this year. The drawing for the 2014 elk hunt this

year will be held Aug. 16 or 17 at the Elk Country Visitor Center near Winslow Hill in Benezette Township, Elk County. That’s about a month earlier than last year’s drawing. And it means hunters who are looking to enter the drawing for the 2014 hunt need to get their applications in sooner. Hunters may apply when 2014-15 hunting licenses go on sale and all applications are due by July 31. Elk applications cost $10.70, and only one application may be submitted each license year. Other modifications proposed for the 2014-15 seasons include: changes to fall turkey seasons in several Wildlife Management Units; new extended bear hunting opportunities in WMUs 2C and 4B; an expansion of the fisher trapping season to WMUs 1B, 3B and 3C; and increased possession limits for small game. Hunters and trappers — particularly those setting vacations for this fall and winter — are advised that, once again, several seasons in the 2014-15 license year will open or run about a week later than they do in many years to accommo-

PA Sets Trapping Seasons and Bag Limits

HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners have set trapping seasons and falconry seasons and bag limits for the 2014-15 license year, which begins July 1. 2014-15 TRAPPING SEASONS MINKS and MUSKRATS: Nov. 22–Jan. 11. Unlimited. COYOTES, FOXES, OPOSSUMS, RACCOONS, STRIPED SKUNKS and WEASELS: Oct. 26–Feb. 22. No limit. COYOTES and FOXES (Statewide) Cable Restraints: Dec. 26-Feb. 22. No limit. Participants must pass cable restraint certification course. BEAVERS (Statewide): Dec. 26–March 31 (Limits vary depending on WMU). BOBCATS (WMUs 2A, 2C, 2E, 2F, 2G, 2H, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 4A, 4C, 4D and 4E): Dec. 20-Jan. 11. One bobcat per license year, and all licensed furtakers may obtain one permit.

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date calendar swings related to the timing of Thanksgiving. Several highlights pertaining to 201415 seasons and bag limits follow. 2014-15 HUNTING SEASONS AND BAG LIMITS SQUIRRELS, Red, Gray, Black and Fox (Combined): Special season for eligible junior hunters, with or without required license, and mentored youth – Oct. 11-17 (6 daily, 18 in possession limit after first day). SQUIRRELS, Red, Gray, Black and Fox (Combined): Oct. 18-Nov. 29; Dec. 15-24 and Dec. 26-Feb. 21 (6 daily, 18 possession). WILD TURKEY (Male or Female): WMU 1B – Nov. 1-8 and Nov. 27-29; WMU 2B (Shotgun and bow and arrow) – Nov. 1-21 and Nov. 27-29; WMUs 1A, 2A, 2D, 2F, 2G, 2H, 3A, 3B and 3C – Nov. 1-15 and Nov. 27-29; WMUs 2C, 2E, 3D, 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D and 4E – Nov. 1-21 and Nov. 27-29; WMU 5A – Nov. 6-8; WMUs 5B, 5C and 5D – CLOSED TO FALL TURKEY HUNTING. SPRING GOBBLER (Bearded bird only): Special season for eligible junior hunters, with required license, and mentored youth – April 25, 2015. Only 1 spring gobbler may be taken during this

hunt. SPRING GOBBLER (Bearded bird only): May 2-30, 2015. Daily limit 1, season limit 2. (Second spring gobbler may be only taken by persons who possess a valid special wild turkey license.) From May 2-16, legal hunting hours are one-half hour before sunrise until noon; from May 18-30, legal hunting hours are one-half hour before sunrise until onehalf hour after sunset. DEER, ARCHERY (Antlerless Only) WMUs 2B, 5C and 5D: Sept. 20-Oct. 3, and Nov. 17-29. One antlerless deer with each required antlerless license. DEER, ARCHERY (Antlered and Antlerless) WMUs 2B, 5C and 5D: Jan. 12-24. One antlered deer per hunting license year. One antlerless deer with each required antlerless license. DEER, ARCHERY (Antlered and Antlerless) Statewide: Oct. 4-Nov. 15 and Dec. 26-Jan. 10. DEER, ANTLERLESS (Statewide): Oct. 23-25. Junior and Senior License Holders, Disabled Person Permit (to use a vehicle) Holders, and Pennsylvania residents serving on active duty in DEER, ANTLERLESS MUZZLELOADER (Statewide): Oct. 18-25. An antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.

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May 2014

Art Contest held for Max Gard Hike

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

16

FREDERICKTOWN, OH — As part of the 48th Annual Max Gard Hike, which takes place each May in Fredericktown, OH, the East Liverpool Post Office sponsored a Kid’s Coloring Contest in conjunction with the event. The topic for the contest was ‘hiking’. Of the 532 entries, three drawings are shown, including the overall winner. That entry came from Hailey Russell, a fourth grade student in Mrs. Shultz’s class at Calcutta Elementary. The drawing featured three children hiking, including one taking a picture of a bluebird. The contest featured artwork from students in grades K-4 in the Beaver Local School District; Calcutta Elementary, West Point Elementary and Rogers Elementary. District art teacher Elayne Lowe organized the contest. The Max Gard Hike, hosted by Ohio Explorer’s Club on May 14, featured a four-mile trek around the Middle Beaver Creek area near Fredericktown. A special pictorial postmark (shown below) to commemorate the event was done by local artist Linda McKenzie. The winner’s artwork was also on the cachet, which was available for purchase. Ohio Valley Outdoors– Submitted

1st Place - by Emma Joseph, Calcutta Elementary

Ohio Valley Outdoors– Submitted

Winner, overall - by Hailey Russell, Calcutta Elementary

Ohio Valley Outdoors– Submitted

Entry by Luke, West Point Elementary


OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

17

PHOTO SHOWCASE SPONSORED BY

Jaret P Everett 20-lbs., youth season 2014 Jefferson County, OH

Pat Stanley 18-lbs. Columbiana County, OH

Drew Russell 20-lbs. Mahoning County, OH

May 2014

Brandon Shipley 18-lbs. turkey Mahoning County, OH

Jon Brodzinski 8-pt., Mahoning County, OH

Send Us Your Photos

Darin Hasson native brown trout Elk County, PA

Dalton Baker 2 doe, muzzleloader

Caleb Cline, age 10 Jefferson 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


May 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

18

www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com

Ohio Valley Outdoors

You need more customers! YOUR CARD HERE

Contact Sales Consultant Tracy Bissell at 330-385-2243

Ohio Has Top-15 U.S. Vaction Spot

LOUDONVILLE, OH — Loudonville, Ohio was recently named to “The Top 15 US Vacation Spots Off the Beaten Path” by ViralTravel.com. Visit Mohican-Loudonville and you will discover that there really is something for everyone from affordable family fun and adventures to festivals and more.

The honor is coupled with the town’s Bicentennial celebration this year. And Loudonville will ring in this milestone in a big way! Help celebrate its 200th birthday and its 200 years of progress in style. Venture back in time and enjoy a Vaudeville show, vintage baseball games, and the opening of the 1964 time capsule.

JOIN

OVO

ON THE NET:

Ohio Valley Outdoors www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com

That’s just for starter! Did you know Loudonville is the Camp & Canoe Capital of Ohio? Make new friends while camping or canoeing along the Mohican River. If you are looking for another activity, try hiking. The Mohican State Park offers 45 miles of hiking trails. Mountain bikers gravitate to more than 20 miles of acclaimed trails. There are also miles of bridle trails available. Mohican-Loudonville is popular for

sport events. This year’s events include the Mohican MTB 100, Mohican Endurance Festival, 100 Mohican Trail Run, and The Races at Pleasant Hill Lake Park. Lodging near Loudonville ranges from the primitive to the luxurious. Year round events means there is always something to do in MohicanLoudonville. Visit DiscoverMohican.com for more information or find them on Facebook-Discover Mohican.


May 2014

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Calendar of Events

Trumbull Co. Chapter of Ducks Unlimited Sportsman's Night Out - May 16, 5:30-9 PM at Sorrento's Banquet Room 2488 Parkman Rd. NW in Warren, OH. Tickets $60, single $80, couple $25, youth and includes membership, meal, and nonalcoholic beverages. For tickets and info. contact Jim Waldman at 330-766-2193 or email trumbulldu@neo.rr.com. Planters Moon Rendezvous (Pre-1840) May 16, 17, 18 at Bill Moose Muzzle Loading Gun Club in Darbyville, OH. Club located at 8821 Greensway Ave, Darbyville, OH. Period time dress and camping. Open to public; Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For info. call 740-969-3386. Free Kid’s Fishing Tournament - May 18 (1:30-4:30 p.m.) at Chester-Newell Sportsmen Club, Gas Valley Road, New Manchester, WV 26056. Located behind Green Valley Dairy. Kids ages 3-15. Worms provided, free food, trophies and prizes. For info. call 330-383-1886 or 304 387-0095. Pymatuning Lake Panfish Tournament May 18 at Manning Launch. Reg. at 5:30

a.m. Event from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Weigh-in to follow. $50 per team. Hosted by Northeast Panfish League. Contact: www.nepanfish.com. Ohio River Catfish Tournaments - May 24, June 28, July 26, Aug. 9 at Chester City Park marina, Chester, WV 26034. Sponsored by Chester-Newell Sportsmen Club. Entry $10 per fisherman. Begins 7 p.m. Saturday, ends 7 a.m. Sunday. Boundaries Pittsburgh, PA to Wheeling, WV. Contact Chaney’s Service Station in Chester or call Don at 304-387-3982. (See ad on Page 12)

Oakridge Pointing Dog Club Field Trial - May 24-25 at PA Brittany Club Grounds, 2546 Kerr Rd., Polk, PA 16342. Website: www.oakridgepointingdogs.com Entries close at 9 p.m May 20. Mail entries to: Beky Davis, 5448 Virginia Dr., Austintown, OH 44515 or email: bekydavis@zoominternet.net. IDPA Shooting Match - May 25, June 29, July 27, Aug. 31, Sept. 28, Oct. 26, Nov. 30 at Pitcairn Monroeville Sportmen’s Club. (IDPA) International Defensive Pistol Association. Sign-ups 10 a.m., shooting at 11 a.m. Match fees $10 for

Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Denny Fetty

A Kid’s Fishing Derby was held May 3 at Beaver Creek State Park in Calcutta, OH, as part of the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center Open House. The Derby was sponsored by Calcutta Outdoors. Shown fishing during a rainy afternoon is Landon Wilson, with some assistance from his grandfather, Jay Mattern.

members, $15 non-member. Contact Neil Glausier at matchdirector@mpscidpa.com. Club located at 505 Mosside Bld (Rt. 48, North Versailles, PA 15137 3-D Archery Shoots - June 29, July 27, Aug. 22-23 at Pitcairn Monroeville Sportsmen’s Club, 505 Mosside Bld (Rt. 48, North Versailles, PA 15137. Sign-up 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Northeast Ohio Crappie Club Tournament - May 24 at Berlin Lake and May 31 at West Branch Reservoir. Team event (may enter alone). Contact Dan Elko at 412-721-0372 or email: delko@lagasseinc.com. Website: www.northeastohiocrappieclub.com. Steel City Championship - 6 Stages of Knock-Down Steel - June 1 Sponsored by Pitcairn-Monroeville Sportsmen’s Club . Minimum 150 rounds, with Texas stars, speed racks, fireman’s targets, pepper poppers, classic poppers, steel plates. Accepting first 120 entries. For info. Richard Eastman at pghshooter@gmail.com or 412-968-0866 or Miquel Turovsky stickboy44@verizon.net or 412-401-8792. Introduction to Adventure Weekend Kayak Clinics - June 7-8, July 5-6, Aug. 16-17, Sept. 13-14 at North Bend State Park, Cairo, WV 26337 (Ritchie County).

19 Cost $30 per clinic. Mountain Bike Clinics also. Call 304-643-2931.

Primitive Archers Rendezvous - June 20, 21, 22 in Fishcreek, WV. Hosted by Ohio Valley Mountain Men.

Tri-State Open Bass Tournament - June 28-29 at Ohioville, PA state line boat ramp. Sponsored by Calcutta Outdoors. Entry $190, plus $10 lunker pot. Elimination tour, $3000 first place prize based on 40 boat field. Top 10 payout. Call Calcutta Outdoors at 330-932-0551.

Walleye Madness Tournaments - June 28 at Lake Erie at Geneva. Tournaments sponsored: Buckeye Sports Center, Lund Boats, Mercury Marine and Walleye Team Six (WT6) Club. 100% payout, plus $700 in bonuses per event. No membership is required for this two-angler team format. 40 boats. Entry fee $150 and includes the Big Fish Bonus. To register: www.walleyemadness.net. Catfish Tournaments at Hubbard Conservation Club - June 28; July 12, 26; Aug. 9, 23 (*new time - 6:30-11:30 p.m.) $9 entry, 30% payout for 1st, 20% for 2nd. $4 for side pot, largest fish. Club located at: 1760 Wick-Campbell Road, Hubbard, OH 44425. For info. call Brian Radcliff at 330-610-5802.


Enjoy the outdoors

10x12’ Alpine Gable

Relax. rest. unwind. g o fi s h i ng

10x14’ Elite Gable w/barnsiding

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