December 8, 2023
Texas’ Largest Hunting and Fishing Newspaper Since 2004
Volume 20, Issue 8
Hunter gets the full experience
CWD found at state facility
By Craig Nyhus
Lone Star Outdoor News On his first morning in a deer blind during his first deer hunt, Andrew Starnes saw more deer activity than he could have imagined. The 24-year-old arrived at the Stonewall County ranch late on the night of Nov. 27, as he works in retail and couldn’t leave early. Fortunately, as a U.S. Army veteran and retail and gunsmith employee at Mission Ridge Range & Academy, his sighted-in rifle or his shooting skills weren’t in question. At the DUX Expo at the Texas Motor Speedway in May, the opportunity came for the born-and-raised Garland resident to make his first deer hunt with the Lone Star Outdoor News Foundation. When asked if all of the employees of Mission Ridge in their booth had hunted deer, all had — except for Starnes. “I have hunted dove and went on one duck hunt,” he said. “My dad hunted ducks some but that was it in my family.” After a short night’s sleep, Starnes was headed to the deer blind called the “Rattlesnake Blind.” Within 10 minutes of arriving and well before the feeder threw any corn, there were deer in front of them, including a nice buck that walked right through the group and led the deer away. “Then the feeder went off and a doe and fawn came right back,” Starnes said. A few minutes later two bucks, including one from the right, came walking in. “That’s a good deer,” said his guide, David Sams. “You can take him if you want.” Let’s see what he does,” Starnes replied. Both bucks in the area were mature 8-pointers and Sams gave the green light to take the one Starnes liked best. “I had my gun ready and looked through the scope,” Starnes said. “I watched him for a
Lone Star Outdoor News After years of testing and regulations, chronic wasting disease has been found at a Texas Parks and Widlife Department facility. A positive case of CWD was found in a 14-month-old captive male white-tailed deer at the Kerr Wildlife Management Area research facility, according to TPWD biologists. “TPWD staff are disappointed to abruptly end nearly 50 years of white-tailed deer research that has significantly influenced deer management in Texas and across the country” said John Silovsky, Wildlife Division director. “Staff will continue to investigate opportunities to enhance the understanding of this insidious disease in both captive environments and free-ranging populations.” The detection resulted from ante-mortem testing conducted on all captive white-tailed deer as part of ongoing research. Samples from the buck were sent to the National Veterinary Service Laboratory in Iowa for confirmation. Out of an abundance of caution, the staff killed all the deer in the research facility and collected post-mortem samples, which resulted in no additional detections. Built in 1974, the high-fenced research facility offers research-
U.S. Army veteran and gunsmith Andrew Starnes approaches his first deer, taken on a deer hunt with the Lone Star Outdoor News Foundation. Photo by David J. Sams, Lone Star Outdoor News.
Please turn to page 19
Quail hunters encouraged
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID DALLAS, TX PERMIT 3814
Please turn to page 26
Some areas show improvement By Craig Nyhus
Many Texas quail hunters are still in the waiting mode, even though the season opened in November. Rattlesnakes are still out, causing concern for both dogs and hunters, causing many to prefer to wait until after a good freeze. Some hunters are hitting the fields, though. Riley Schankle, of Amarillo, hunted bobwhites in Wheeler County and blues in Potter County in November. The dogs flushed eight coveys of bobwhites one day, and several blue
Please turn to page 26 Freshwater Fishing Report . . Page 10 Game Warden Blotter . . . . . Page 12 Heroes . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 14 Sun, Moon & Tides . . . . . . Page 16 Saltwater Fishing Report . . . Page 20 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . Page 24 Datebook . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 26
INSIDE
CONTENTS
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Lone Star Outdoor News
quail were taken the next. Jay Stine, the executive director of the Quail Coalition, has been receiving reports from hunters, although he will likely wait until the holidays to begin chasing quail. “I’ve heard from some guys in Jayton (Kent County) that are moving three to four coveys per hour,” he said. “That’s much better than last year.” Stine said the eastern Panhandle looks promising. “I’ve heard some bad reports, too, but I think it depends on where you are,” he said. Jeff White, of Raleigh, North Carolina, made the trek to the Texas Panhandle and said the hunting was good for both bobs and blues, but the terrain was hard on the dogs. “There were lots of sand burrs,” he said. “I
While quail aren’t abundant in the Rolling Plains and Panhandle, dogs are flushing more coveys this year than last. Photo by Phil Lamb.
HUNTING
FISHING
Encouraging goose numbers (P. 4)
Pompano from the beach (P. 8)
Outfitters seeing more birds this year.
Long casts a must.
Standby hunt pays off (P. 6)
Umbrella rigs for schooling bass (P. 8)
Up early in hopes of hunt.
Angler lands three at once.
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December 8, 2023
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December 8, 2023
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HUNTING
Goose numbers building
Outfitters are seeing more geese this season on the coastal rice prairies, while Panhandle hunters are seeing more geese move into the areas. Photo by Nate Skinner, for Lone Star Outdoor News.
Birds return to Coastal Prairies in numbers By Nate Skinner
For Lone Star Outdoor News More and more geese are arriving as cold fronts push the birds into the state. Significant numbers of Canada geese are feeding in Panhandle grain fields and coastal rice prairies are starting to load up with snow geese. White-fronted geese also have been present in both regions. On the coastal rice prairie, outfitter Chris Slemp has been chasing snow geese and specklebellies over rice fields near Garwood, El Campo and Eagle Lake. He said goose
numbers are building every day, and there are some large concentrations of geese in certain areas. “I’m starting to see geese show up in areas that have historically produced excellent shoots, that just haven’t held many birds over the past several seasons until this year,” he said. “I’ve been able to have successful hunts recently on some properties I haven’t hunted in about 15 years. It’s exciting to see the geese return.” Slemp said there is a good mix of specklebellies alongside concentrations of snows that are anywhere from a few thousand up to 20,000-40,000 birds. “There seems to be plenty of young birds in the mix, and the decoying action has been about as good as it gets,” Slemp said.
“Most of the birds are still focused on cut rice fields.” Slemp’s best hunts have been taking place over large spreads of full-body decoys on days with a steady breeze and sunshine. “The birds just seem to be able to pick the hunters out and avoid the spread better on cloudy days,” he said. “Good hunts have brought 20 to 40 geese harvested, with a solid mix of specks and snows.” Zach Montalvo has been pursuing specklebellies in South Texas from Uvalde to Charlotte over peanut, corn and milo fields. The action has been pretty consistent and the number of birds has been growing with each cold front. “All of our specklebelly hunts so far this year have resulted in doubt digits, as far as
Photo by Lone Star Outdoor News
birds harvested are concerned,” Montalvo said. “Some hunts have been better than others, depending on the conditions, but it’s been a great season so far.” Please turn to page 15
Redheads and redfish Port O’Connor sportsmen keeping busy
of a back water canal and didn’t have to make another move after that. The reds were hungry and so were the black drum.” The black drum were best on chunks By Robert Sloan of sardines, but the reds were on the live For Lone Star Outdoor News shrimp, according to Coffey, who specialThe first split of the duck season was izes in fishing the flats for reds, trout and better this year than last season for some, black drum. One thing he likes to do is to chum an area with redheads he will be fishleading the ing. way. And many “The black duck hunters drum especially love to fish, like to feed on and they have small chunks the option of of sardines,” he doubling down says. “Chumwith redfish in ming will get the backwater their attention potholes and at in a hurry.” the jetties. On the duck Guide Jeff hunting side of Coffey has been things, guide finding reds in Mark Ueding pockets of water located along A variety of duck decoys help attract redheads and other spe- with Texas Fins Feathers canals. The cies to backwater marshes and coastal bays. Photo by Robert and guide service, trick is to use Sloan, for Lone Star Outdoor News. said the numlive bait. “One of my better trips was on the last ber of ducks in Port O’Connor is very good, weekend of the first split of the duck sea- and has improved with each cold front. “We had good hunts with a variety of son,” Coffey said. “I had three guys that wanted to catch redfish and black drum. birds during the first split,” he said. “We The first spot we hit was like gold. I had a had green-winged teal, bluewings, pintails, livewell full of shrimp and plenty of Span- lots of redheads and even had a couple of ish sardines on ice. I came into an area off buffleheads come into the decoys. We have Please turn to page 20
New ranch yields beautiful buck By Robert Sloan
For Lone Star Outdoor News It was a 125-yard shot at first light, and after Billy Gerke had made it at one of the highest scoring deer he’s ever seen, the buck disappeared into some nearby brush. When this particular buck showed up, Gerke, who owns the ForEverlast hunting and fishing gear company, had not been on his stand more than a few minutes. When he saw the buck, he knew it was a shooter. He made the shot, a good one, and found his trophy about 125 yards from his stand. “I had dropped my son, Layne, off at a nearby stand,” Gerke said. “I went and picked Layne up and we went back to where I had last seen the buck. We found one little speck of blood and followed more blood to the buck.” That all happened Nov. 26 at Gerke’s 1,877-acre family ranch in Maverick County. The ranch has been Billy Gerke took this buck on his family’s ranch in Maverick managed for growing trophy bucks County. Photo from Billy Gerke. for years by the family that previously owned the ranch. The buck had 19 scorable points and scored 174-6/8, with a weight of about 185 pounds. “It was an old buck that didn’t even have any teeth,” Gerke said. “I don’t know how Please turn to page 15
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Good bucks ahead of the rut By Tony Vindell
For Lone Star Outdoor News The South Texas whitetail season will soon enter a new phase — the rut. In the region, it typically arrives after Dec. 15, with Christmas often being called the prime time. Some hunters, though, have found their bucks earlier in the season. On a Willacy County ranch, six hunters bagged an equal number of deer on the morning of Saturday, Nov. 4 — the current season’s opening day. One, an 8-pointer, had a 19 1/2-inch spread. Frank Torres said most of the deer harvested on that morning had pretty good-sized antlers. In Zapata County, a hunter from Brownsville harvested an 11-point buck on Sunday, Nov. 26 while in Brooks County, guide Jesse Delgado said they have been seeing smaller Selina Cisneros bagged her first white-tailed deer in Cameron County while hunting with her husband, Aaron. bucks and a couple of shooters so far. On Thursday, Nov. 30, however, a Photo by Aaron Cisneros. hunter bagged another 11-pointer. On the eastern side of Cameron County, Selina Cisneros harvested her first deer. The first-grade teacher was hunting on a lease north of the town of Laguna Vista. She said she has gone deer hunting with her father before, but this is her first white-tailed deer. “I am an avid duck hunter, though,” Cisneros said. “This is my first deer.” On that morning, she sat in a blind with her husband, Aaron, and spotted a buck chasing a doe some 70 feet away. The buck went into the brush but her husband told her to be patient, saying the buck will reappear. Just as he said it, the deer showed up behind some other does and gave Cisneros the opportunity to take a shot with her .243. “I got him,” she said. “My heart was beating fast. I was shaking all over. I heard before about having buck fever but did not believe it.” Cisneros said they took the heavy horned buck to a deer processor/taxidermist business outside Rio Hondo. The meat is being processed into breakfast patties, smoked sausage and fully-loaded burgers. Her prized buck is going on the wall, Cisneros added, as the taxidermist is working on a shoulder mount. “It was amazing,” she said.
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Risking a standby hunt can pay off By Cory Byrnes
For Lone Star Outdoor News
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Did you fail in the draws for public hunts or maybe just miss the deadline for the draw? All is not lost. At most locations, there are unclaimed permits for drawn hunt units. Instead of letting them go unused, they are put up as standby permits, giving hunters who did not put in or did not draw another chance to hunt the unit. And hunting as a standby hunter does not affect your loyalty points for future draws. Elon Christopher- Hunters wait to see if they have been drawn for a standby hunt. Friends, a recent transplant Photo by Chris Matocha. to Texas, was one such hunter. “The process was simple,” he said. Christopher-Friends found the notice for the standby hunt posted on the Facebook page for Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, where the hunt applications and permits are managed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Public Drawn Hunt System. He showed up at the designated time the day before the hunt started. If there are more hunters than standby permits, the rangers will do a draw on the spot. “It was simple — it took about 5-10 minutes,” Christopher-Friends said. Those who are drawn then pay the permit fee. The permit fee is above and beyond your hunting license and annual public land hunting permit cost. The fee can vary from one location to the next. Once drawn, Christopher-Friends was able to spend the rest of the day scouting for a spot before the hunt started the next day. “I recommend you bring some sort of portable stand to get off the ground,” he said. TPWD maintains statistics of the drawn hunt success rate at each hunting location. If hunters are strategic in selecting which standby hunt they will risk making the trek in the hope of being selected, they can increase the chance of success. With some footwork and e-scouting, Christopher-Friends was successful on his first day of the hunt. He harvested a nice doe. There are a few tips to know for those considering a standby hunt. TPWD recommends calling a week before the scheduled hunt to see if there are standby permits available for Please turn to page 15
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December 8, 2023
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FISHING
Prime time for pompano By Tony Vindell
For Lone Star Outdoor News Whenever the thermometer dips, fish movement changes from one species to another. In far South Texas, the bull reds and black drum gang up in schools in late fall and winter. But some 150 miles up the Gulf Coast, pompano fishing hits its peak. Just ask anglers from the Kingsville and Corpus Christi areas. On Nov. 19, Andrew Butler and his family went surf-fishing off the Padre Island
National Seashore and caught six pompano. “That was pretty good,” he said. “We also caught a few slot reds.” But the pompano were the highlight of the trip. Butler said the best time to catch pompano is when the water is cool and clear. Corpus Christi resident Nick Meyer said he caught his last three pompano on Sunday, Nov. 26, during what he called “very bad conditions.” He claimed the area he fishes is one of
the best pompano hotspots. Meyer, who produces videos on fishing including one called “How to Catch, Cook, Clean Texas Pompano,” generally casts past the second sand bar and waits for the fish to take the bait. Often when the pompano hit, they take the bait sideways down the shore. The fishing is fun, often involving a group of anglers, plenty of food and drink, and a fire pit dug into the sand. His favorite bait — Fishbites. “The secret is being able to cast a long Please turn to page 23
Nick Meyer fishes with family and friends from the Padre Island National Seashore beach, and the pompano have been biting recently. Photo from Nick Meyer.
Umbrella rig madness on Rayburn By Nate Skinner
For Lone Star Outdoor News Sam Rayburn Reservoir bass fishing guide Chad Marler recently experienced two epic days on the water while chunking an umbrella or Alabama rig. One day resulted in him catching and releasing his personal best, five-fish stringer of bass on Rayburn, including catching two fish on the same cast. On his next outing, he ended up landing three bass on one cast on an umbrella rig, something that he said he has never done before. “I had a customer that had to reschedule a trip last minute, so I decided to go ahead and go fishing anyways,” Marler said. “I knew that the umbrella rig bite could be pretty good, so I wanted to get out on Sam Rayburn and give it a shot. I ended up catching a 6.70 pound bass and a 5.54 pound bass on one cast, and landed a total of 26.70 pounds between five fish in about 35 minutes. This was my personal best five fish combined weight on that lake, and the smallest fish I caught was 4.5 pounds.” Marler said that he found the fish in about 27 feet of water, concentrated along the bottom. He said that he just happened to stumble upon a school that consisted of mostly bigger fish. A few days later, Marler took one of his buddies back to the same area. The fish hadn’t moved, and they immediately started catching solid bass. “On four consecutive casts, my buddy caught a fish 3.5 pounds or larger on a deep-diving crankbait,” Marler said. “I finally picked up the Alabama rig and made a cast. We were able to watch on my Live Scope as two fish came up and crushed the rig, simultaneously. A third fish hit the rig on the way in, as I was fighting the two fish that were hooked, and I ended up landing three bass on a single cast.” Marler said that schools of bass on Sam Rayburn are congregating in open water right now. Large schools of 100 bass or more are relating Chad Marler caught three bass on one cast on an Alabama rig in 27 feet of water on Sam Rayburn Reservoir. Photo from Chad Marler.
Please turn to page 23
Making quality fishing rods in Texas By Shannon Drawe
For Lone Star Outdoor News When Captain Collins Illich was approached by Greg Zwernemann about creating a fishing rod company in Texas, his first response was to advise him against it, saying, “Don’t do it. Take the money, retire and fish.” “I was out of the industry, guiding full-time and spending time with the kids,” Illich said. But the owner was persistent. He wanted an American-made rod company that builds rods he could be
proud to take to market, feel good about and retire with. “We chatted a couple more times,” Illich said, finally giving in once he knew he could “build the rods I wanted to fish and make cooler rods to go to market with.” With that assurance, Illich, who has been in the rod business for 15 years, knew whose rod blanks he wanted to use. He called on his mentor Gary Loomis, who had recommended him for the Sawgrass Fishing Rod startup, and Sawgrass began working with Loomis’ rod company, North Fork Composites, to provide
rod blanks. Illich had been a partner in North Fork with Loomis years earlier. “To not regurgitate products and make cooler rods let us use exotic guide chains, like the upcoming torzite-torzite-torzite-recoil chain, for example,” Illich said. “The strength of small businesses, like Sawgrass, is that you maintain the flexibility to change and make adjustments based on factors like customer feedback and new improvements to components.” Fishing guide Gilbert Miller, of Midlothian, agreed. Please turn to page 23
Collins Illich stands with a shipment of USA-made rod blanks at Sawgrass Rod Company. Photo by Shannon Drawe, for Lone Star Outdoor News.
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December 8, 2023
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Speckled trout patterns changing By Nate Skinner
For Lone Star Outdoor News With cooler temperatures along the Texas coast, speckled trout are on the move. Areas with oyster shell and muddy bottoms have been the most productive in upper coast estuaries, while deep grass beds adjacent to guts and drop-offs have been the ticket in bays farther south. Baffin Bay guide Capt. Reanna S. DeLaCruz said the speckled trout bite on Baffin has been a bit of a grind. The fish have been on the move from day to day. “We are experiencing a lot of fluctuating water temperatures and tide levels right now, as the weather conditions and barometric pressure are constantly changing with passMaricela Lucio-Flores caught this trout south of the JFK ing cold fronts,” DeLaCruz said. Causeway on a shrimp imitation soft plastic rigged under a “You really have to focus on finding popping cork. Photo by Gabriel Flores Jr. baitfish and targeting stretches of water that look like they are full of life and activity. These areas have been changing each day.” DeLaCruz said the most consistent trout action has been taking place in knee- to waistdeep water adjacent to drop-offs and parallel guts while wade fishing. Slow-sinking and suspending mullet-imitation lures in pink color patterns have been producing the most strikes. “We’ve been catching trout from 20 to 28 inches with a few larger ones mixed in,” DeLaCruz said. “There’s been some really nice fish caught, you just have to work to find them.” There has been some top-water action, but for the most part, the trout have been hanging tight to the bottom. Recreational angler and owner and operator of Texas Made Lures, Gabriel Flores Jr., has been chasing speckled trout just south of the JFK Causeway in Corpus Christi along the Laguna Madre, from a kayak alongside his wife. They have been catching most of their fish on their shrimp-imitation soft plastics in pink color patterns rigged about 18 inches under a popping cork. “We’ve been fishing in 5 to 6 feet of water along the edges of drop-offs near grass beds and stretches with muddy bottoms,” Flores said. “The key has been a slow and thorough approach. Subtle twitches with a lot of pauses mixed into the retrieve has produced the most strikes.” Most of the trout Flores and his wife have been catching have been anywhere from 1224 inches. They have been making long drifts in their kayaks until they find the fish.
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Public access lease open for Guadalupe River trout Texas anglers have access to a premier location for rainbow trout fishing during the peak of the winter stocking season thanks to a “no fee” access lease on the Guadalupe River. Camp Huaco Springs, located between New Braunfels and Sattler, features nearly a half-mile of bank access along alternating pools and riffles on the river. Anglers can use the bank, which is gently sloped and rocky, or wade fish both upstream and downstream to take advantage of a low-water dam at the upper end of the property or a deep pool at the lower end. They can also launch non-motorized boats, canoes, kayaks or other floatable devices for the purpose of fishing. Public access opened Dec. 1 and is available through March 2 from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. “This lease location provides great bank angler access to river trout fishing coupled with gorgeous Guadalupe River scenery,” said Patrick Ireland, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Inland Fisheries supervisor. TPWD will stock this and other sections of the Guadalupe River, also known as the Canyon Reservoir Tailrace, with more than 20,000 rainbow trout during weekly stockings from early December through late February. Anglers should check the 2023-24 Trout Stocking Schedule online before fishing to confirm the stocking date and to find other winter trout stocking program angling locations and tips. Camp Huaco Springs falls under statewide trout regulations, so anglers may keep up to their daily bag limit of five trout with no minimum length limit. Trout anglers 17 years of age and older will need a valid fishing license that includes a freshwater fishing endorsement. Anglers may find public access to the river in other areas being stocked with trout – including Guadalupe Park, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – but should note that special regulations and limits are in effect starting 800 yards downstream from the Canyon Dam release to the second bridge crossing on River Road. —TPWD
Attempts to acquire Fairfield Lake State Park dropped The chance that Fairfield Lake State Park could be acquired by eminent domain is no more. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department announced on Dec. 5 it will no longer pursue acquisition of the property previously occupied by Fairfield Lake State Park, now owned by FLG Owner, LLC. “TPWD recognizes the importance of conserving our state’s natural resources and providing recreational opportunities for Texans,” said TPWD Executive Director David Yoskowitz, Ph.D. “However, TPWD must also responsibly manage the state’s fiscal resources in order to maximize the benefit of our parks for all Texans.” —TPWD
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TEXAS FRESHWATER FISHING REPORT ALAN HENRY: Water clear; 56 degrees; 3.26’ low. Largemouth bass are slow. Crappie are fair on jigs and minnows. AMISTAD: Water lightly stained; 68 degrees; 55.09’ low. Largemouth bass are good on crankbaits, Texasrigged plastics, top-waters, spinner baits and jigs. White bass are good on spoons, blades and crankbaits. Stripers are fair on bucktail jigs, Alabama rigs, deep crankbaits and swimbaits. ARLINGTON: Water lightly stained; 55-65 degrees; 1.03’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on Texas rigs and crankbaits. Crappie are good on jigs and live minnows. White bass are slow. Catfish are good on prepared baits. ARROWHEAD: Water lightly stained; 58 degrees; 8.55’ low. Crappie are fair on minnows and jigs. Catfish are good on cut shad. ATHENS: Water stained; 50 degrees; 1.45’ low. Largemouth bass are slow. Crappie are good on jigs. AUSTIN: Water lightly stained; 60-65 degrees; 0.71’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on shad imitations and jigs. BASTROP: Water stained; 73 degrees. Largemouth bass are good on Texas-rigged worms, trick worms, crankbaits and jigs. BELTON: Water lightly stained; 63 degrees; 15.39’ low. White bass are fair on slabs. Catfish are good on cut shad and punch bait. BENBROOK: Water stained; 59-61 degrees; 6.24’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on chatter baits and Texas-rigged worms. Crappie are fair on jigs and minnows. BOB SANDLIN: Water stained; 58 degrees; 1.25’ low. Largemouth bass are good on flukes, chatter baits, lipless crankbaits and spinner baits. Crappie are good on minnows or jigs. White bass are good on slabs. Catfish are good on cut bait and cheese bait. BRAUNIG: Water stained, 73 degrees. Redfish are fair on shrimp and live tilapia. Catfish are fair on shrimp. BRIDGEPORT: Water lightly stained; 60-63 degrees; 15.19’ low. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. White bass and hybrids are good on slabs and spoons. Catfish are good on cut bait. BROWNWOOD: Water stained; 60-62 degrees; 8.57’ low. Largemouth bass are slow. Crappie are slow. White bass are fair on crankbaits and jigs. Catfish are fair on punch bait. BUCHANAN: Water lightly stained; 55-62 degrees; 25.88’ low. Largemouth bass
are good on crankbaits, topwaters, flukes and worms. White bass are good on spoons. Stripers are good on live bait and spoons. CADDO: Water stained; 60 degrees; 0.20’ high. Largemouth bass are good on crankbaits and Alabama rigs. White bass are good on lipless crankbaits, underspins and spoons. CALAVERAS: Water lightly stained, 75 degrees. Redfish are good on cut shad, frozen shrimp and soft plastics. Catfish are good on cheese bait, chicken livers and frozen shrimp. CANYON: Water clear to slightly stained; 62 degrees; 19.87’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on lipless crankbaits and trick worms. Stripers are fair on spooks and swimbaits. CEDAR CREEK: Water stained; 60-62 degrees; 1.33’ low. White bass and hybrid striper are good on spoons and umbrella rigs. CHOKE CANYON: Water stained; 61 degrees; 27.51’ low. Largemouth bass are slow. Crappie are good on minnows or small jigs. Catfish are fair on stink bait and cut shad. CONROE: Water stained; 62 degrees; 0.69’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on spinner baits and lipless crankbaits. Hybrids are fair on trolled pet spoons and divers. White bass are fair on spoons. Crappie are good on jigs. Catfish are good on cut bait and punch bait. COOPER: Water lightly stained; 60 degrees: 1.00’ low. Catfish are good on cut shad and stink bait. CORPUS CHRISTI: Water stained; 65 degrees; 7.42’ low. Largemouth bass are slow. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. Catfish are good on punch bait, shad, and cut carp. EAGLE MOUNTAIN: Water stained; 56 degrees; 7.12’ low. White bass are fair on slabs and cocahoe minnows. Crappie are fair on jigs. Catfish are good on cut bait and punch bait. FALCON: Water stained; 70 degrees; 40.37’ low. Largemouth bass are good on plastic worms, jigs and crankbaits. Crappie are slow. Catfish are good on cut bait, stink bait and shrimp. FAYETTE: Water stained; 77 degrees. Largemouth bass are good on worms, lizards and shaky heads. FORK: Water stained; 50 degrees; 2.26’ low. Large-
mouth bass are fair on crankbaits, Texas rigs and Carolina rigs. Crappie are fair on minnows and jigs. FT. PHANTOM HILL: Water stained; 68 degrees; 6.09’ low. Largemouth bass are good on crankbaits and jigs. Hybrid stripers are good on shad. Crappie are slow. White bass are good on slabs and minnows. Catfish are fair on cut shad and punch bait. GRANBURY: Water lightly stained; 60 degrees; 0.38’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on soft plastics and crankbaits. White bass are good on slabs. Crappie are good on jigs and minnows. Striped bass are fair on trolled Alabama rigs and live bait. Catfish are good on cut shad. GRANGER: Water lightly stained; 62 degrees; 2.37’ low. Largemouth bass are slow. Crappie are slow. White bass are fair on jigs and spoons. Catfish are good on cut bait and shad. GRAPEVINE: Water stained; 60 degrees; 1.25’ low. Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass are fair on finesse baits. White bass are fair on slabs. Catfish are fair on cut bait. HOUSTON COUNTY: Water clear; 56-59 degrees; 1.67’ low. Largemouth bass are good on Ned rigs, Texas rigs, chatter baits and wacky worms. Crappie are fair on minnows. Catfish are fair on cut bait. HUBBARD CREEK: Water stained; 59-61 degrees; 11.72’ low. Largemouth bass are good on Texas rigs and crankbaits. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. Catfish are fair on cut shad or punch bait. White bass are fair on slabs, crankbaits and jigs. JOE POOL: Water stained; 65 degrees; 0.07’ high. Largemouth bass are good on crankbaits, chatter baits and Texas-rigged senkos. Crappie are fair on minnows and jigs. LAKE O’ THE PINES: Water stained; 58 degrees; 1.05’ high. Largemouth bass are good on top-waters, flukes, chatter baits and lipless crankbaits. Crappie are good on jigs and minnows. Catfish are good on cut bait and cheese bait. LAVON: Water lightly stained; 62 degrees; 3.27’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on swimbaits, Alabama rigs, Carolina rigs and spoons. White bass are good on slabs. Crappie are good on jigs and minnows. Catfish are good on cut shad.
LBJ: Water stained; 62 degrees; 0.30’ low. Crappie are good on jigs. Catfish are good on punch bait. LEWISVILLE: Water lightly stained; 58-62 degrees; 2.39’ low. Largemouth bass are good on crankbaits, Alabama rigs and jigs. White bass are fair on slabs, jigs and live bait. Hybrid stripers are slow. Catfish are fair on cut shad and chicken breasts. LIMESTONE: Water clear; 61 degrees; 4.04’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on chatter baits, lipless crankbaits and finesse jigs. Crappie are fair on minnows. White bass are fair on spoons. Catfish are good on cut bait. LIVINGSTON: Water stained; 66 degrees; 0.01’ high. White bass are good on slabs. Catfish are good on cut bait and gizzard shad. MARTIN CREEK: Water lightly stained; 68 degrees; 4.45’ low. Largemouth bass are good on crankbaits and swimbaits. Crappie are good on minnows. MEREDITH: Water stained; 57 degrees; 45.49’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on minnows and artificials. Crappie are fair on artificial baits and minnows. White bass are good on minnows and slabs. Walleye are fair on minnows, grubs and blade baits. Catfish are fair on crawlers, minnows, chicken liver and frozen shad. MILLERS CREEK: Water stained; 65 degrees; 8.99’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on soft plastics. Catfish are slow. NACOGDOCHES: Water clear; 58-63 degrees; 3.53’ low. Largemouth bass are good on soft plastics, Alabama rigs, crankbaits and jigs. Crappie are good on jigs. NACONICHE: Water lightly stained; 59 degrees; Largemouth bass are good on Alabama rigs, crankbaits and top-waters. Crappie are good on minnows. Catfish are slow. NASWORTHY: Water lightly stained; 65 degrees. 0.42’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on chatter baits and soft plastics. Crappie are good around boat docks on jigs. Catfish are good on cut bait and stink bait. NAVARRO MILLS: Water lightly stained; 57-60 degrees; 1.68’ low. Largemouth bass are slow. White bass are slow. Crappie are fair on minnows. Catfish are good on cut bait and punch bait. O.H. IVIE: Water stained; 60 degrees; 29.93’ low.
Largemouth bass are slow. White bass are fair on live baits and plastic baits. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. OAK CREEK: Water lightly stained; 55 degrees; 15.62’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on crankbaits and Alabama rigs. Crappie are slow. PALESTINE: Water stained; 57-64 degrees; 2.26’ low. Largemouth bass are slow. Crappie are good on minnows and jigs. White bass and hybrids are fair on slabs. Catfish are good on stink bait and cut bait. POSSUM KINGDOM: Water clear; 58-63 degrees; 1.63’ low. Striped bass are good on live bait and soft plastics. White bass are fair on live shad, jigs and slabs. Catfish are good on cut bait and live shad. PROCTOR: Water stained; 60 degrees; 12.71’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on crankbaits and lipless crankbaits. Hybrids and white bass are fair on slabs. Crappie are good minnows and jigs. Catfish are good on stink bait and cut bait. RAVEN: Water lightly stained; 66 degrees. Largemouth bass are fair on crankbaits. Bluegills are fair on nightcrawlers. RAY HUBBARD: Water stained; 57-59 degrees; 1.91’ low. White bass are good on slabs and jigs. Crappie are fair on jigs and minnows. Catfish are fair on cut bait and punch bait. RAY ROBERTS: Water stained; 55 degrees; 1.65’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on crankbaits and drop-shot rigs. Crappie are slow. White bass are good on slabs and jigs. Catfish are good on cut chicken and cut shad. RICHLAND CHAMBERS: Water clear; 61 degrees; 2.40’ low. White bass are fair on slabs. Catfish are good on punch bait or shad. SAM RAYBURN: Water lightly stained; 60 degrees; 6.60’ low. Largemouth bass are good on crankbaits, Alabama rigs and plastic worms. Crappie are fair on jigs. White bass are good on slabs. Catfish are good on shad. SOMERVILLE: Water clear; 63 degrees; 6.04’ low. Largemouth bass are slow. Crappie are fair on jigs and minnows. White bass and hybrids are slow. Catfish are good on punch bait and shad. SPENCE: Water stained; 59 degrees. 46.26’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on crankbaits. White bass are
n Guide reports Page 24
n Saltwater reports Page 20
fair on spoons and slabs. Catfish are good on cut bait. STILLHOUSE HOLLOW: Water stained; 62 degrees; 17.12’ low. Largemouth bass are fair on soft plastics. White bass are fair on slabs. TAWAKONI: Water lightly stained; 59 degrees; 0.63’ low. Largemouth bass are good on crankbaits and flukes. White bass are good on slabs. Striped bass are good on spoons and slabs. Crappie are good on jigs. Catfish are good on punch bait. TEXOMA: Water stained; 65 degrees; 2.55’ low. Largemouth and smallmouth bass are fair on live shad and swimbaits. Striped bass are good on live shad and flukes. Catfish are good on cut shad. Crappie are slow. TOLEDO BEND: Water clear; 62-66 degrees; 4.24’ low. Largemouth bass are good on spinner baits, chatter baits, plastic worms, spoons and drop shots. Catfish are slow. TRAVIS: Water stained; 65 degrees; 49.05’ low. Largemouth bass are good on imitation craw baits, shaky heads, crankbaits and topwaters. TWIN BUTTES: Water stained; 62 degrees; 31.83’ low. Largemouth bass are slow. White bass are fair on slabs. Crappie are good on live minnows. Catfish are good on cheese bait and nightcrawlers. WACO: Water stained; 65 degrees; 0.23’ high. Crappie are fair on minnows and jigs. WHITNEY: Water stained; 70 degrees; 1.24’ low. Crappie are good on jigs. Striped bass are good on minnows, shad, or trolling crankbaits, swimbaits and umbrella-rigs. WORTH: Water stained; 56 degrees; 2.65’ low. White bass are fair on slabs and minnows. Crappie are fair on jigs. Catfish are good on cut bait and punch bait. WRIGHT PATMAN: Water stained; 65 degrees; 3.59’ high. Largemouth bass are fair on lipless crankbaits and swimbaits. Crappie are fair on jigs. Catfish are good on cut bait, nightcrawlers and minnows. —TPWD
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December 8, 2023
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December 8, 2023
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GAME WARDEN BLOTTER TWO BOATS HIT GALVESTON JETTIES The Coast Guard medevaced one boater whose vessel hit a jetty near Galveston. A phone call from a good Samaritan reported a 27-foot pleasure craft ran aground on the North Jetty with two men aboard, both of whom were injured. A response boat and helicopter crew were launched. The helicopter crew arrived on scene and hoisted one man who had sustained lacerations and a leg injury. The helicopter crew transported him to the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston in stable condition. Galveston County emergency medical services personnel escorted the other boater off the jetty on foot and transported him to UTMB Galveston in stable condition. In a separate incident, two boaters were rescued from a disabled, aground vessel near Galveston. The Coast Guard received a call from the operator of a 21-foot cuddy cabin at 6:42 p.m. stating his vessel was disabled and had run aground on the North Jetty. A response boat and helicopter crew were launched. When the helicopter crew arrived on scene, they hoisted the two boaters and transported them to Scholes International Airport in Galveston. On-scene weather conditions were approximately 4-foot seas with winds of 13-20 mph. No injuries were reported; the vessel’s
game wardens. All callers will remain anonymous.
A HOLIDAY MIRACLE RESCUE Last month, a local family notified the Bowie County Sheriff’s Office of an elderly family member who did not return home from a doctor’s appointment and been missing for 24 hours. During that time, temperatures dropped into the 30s. Assisting with the search, a game warden captain received a call from a farm about 16 miles off course of the individual’s original destination. A ranch hand notified him of a vehicle on the property that was stuck in the mud and abandoned. The captain notified the Sheriff’s Office. Refocusing their search efforts on the 3,000acre farm, a TPWD K-9 unit and drone arrived to assist in the search but were unsuccessful in locating the individual. The search expanded to include an EMS helicopter and a ground crew utilizing ATVs on
owner will reportedly arrange for its salvage. HIDING DRUGS IN FOUNTAIN DRINK While on patrol, a Lubbock area game warden observed a pickup truck pulling a trailer with defective taillights and other transportation violations. During the traffic stop, the warden asked the driver and passenger to exit the vehicle and stand with a local deputy. While the warden ran the driver’s information, the deputy allowed the driver to grab his burrito and fountain drink from the vehicle. The war-
the farm trails. The helicopter searched ahead of the ATVs and spotted a figure on the trail. The warden, along with the farm hand, followed the coordinates to the area. Spotting the individual lying on the trail between the fields and river. As the warden and ranch hand bent down to take a pulse the individual moved. Immediately, they delivered first aid and covered him in their jackets. With warmth from the farm hands the individual gained his senses. He began talking and drinking water. The team successfully transported the individual to a nearby road where the EMS helicopter awaited to fly the individual to emergency care. Despite missing in freezing temperatures for 48 hours, he is expected to make a full recovery.
den separated the driver from the passenger and asked the driver for consent to search the vehicle. The driver complied, stating he did not have any drugs or anything in the vehicle. The warden then asked to look inside the 44-ounce fountain drink that he was holding. The driver hesitated but ultimately handed it to the warden. He opened the lid and found a small orange mesh bag inside the cup. The driver said the bag contained meth and he was immediately detained. The substance weighed more than 5 grams and the man tested positive for methamphetamine.
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NARROW BUCK FOUND ON FLOORBOARD During the opening weekend of the general deer season, Trinity County game wardens found an untagged buck with an inside spread of under 13 inches in the antler restriction county on the rear seat floorboard of a pickup truck. Charges are pending. GROUP SOUGHT FOR WASTING 29 DUCKS In Shelby County, 29 ducks were illegally dumped at the Teneha Creek boat ramp on Nov. 13. Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact Shelby County
DEER CARCASSES ILLEGALLY DUMPED On Nov. 14, Texas game wardens received a call regarding multiple white-tailed deer carcasses that had been illegally dumped along Farm to Market Road 1833, near County Road 95, just outside of Bluntzer in Nueces County. Call Operation Game Thief with any information. BUCK SHOT, HEAD AND ANTLERS REMOVED On the morning of Nov. 16, Newton County game wardens located a white-tailed deer buck on Farm to Market Road 253 at the intersection of County Road 3111, between Buna and Devils Pocket. The buck had a single gunshot wound in its neck, and its head and antlers had been removed. The buck had no signs of being struck by a vehicle. Please call Operation Game Thief with any information.
REPORT ILLEGAL HUNTING AND FISHING ACTIVITY FOR A REWARD OF UP TO $1,000. CALL OPERATION GAME THIEF AT (800) 792-4263
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December 8, 2023
Every year, DSC hosts its annual Convention that raises funds for grants in conservation, education, and advocacy. The four-day 2024 DSC Convention is open to the public and will fill over 800,000 square feet with 1,000 exhibitors featuring outfitted hunts, firearms, gear, wildlife art and much more.
Mark your calendars! DSC 2024 Convention – January 11-14
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December 8, 2023
LoneOStar Outdoor News
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HEROES
Ben Childers took this nilgai on a hunt near Los Fresnos.
Kase Knowlton shot his first 8-point buck at the Dry Bean Ranch. He was guided by his father, Kody.
Beth Glispin, of Dallas, caught her first redfish at South Padre Island on light tackle with Capt. Cliff Fleming.
SHARE AN ADVENTURE
n Want to share hunting and fishing photos with other Lone Star Outdoor News readers? Email them with contact and caption information to editor@lonestaroutdoornews. com. High-resolution original jpegs only. Mail prints to Heroes, Lone Star Outdoor News, P.O. Box 551695, Dallas, TX 75355.
texas dove hunters Growing The Next Generation of Hunters and Wildlife Ambassadors
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Cooler weather did not keep Wyatt and Eli Paulus from landing this 34 3/4-inch redfish off the Sabine Lake pier on cut mullet with their dad, Daniel.
Connor Causey, 8, and Cooper Causey, 6, went duck hunting with their father, Cayce.
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LoneOStar Outdoor News
December 8, 2023
Page 15
Great buck Continued from page 4
he was alive. He was about 9 years old. I had seen him on a trail cam pic about 3 miles from where I shot him. That morning I was on a stand that allowed me to see in four different directions. Right at first light I saw two deer, then saw the big buck in another area. I knew he was the one we had been seeing. I didn’t have a good rest for my gun, so I took my jacket off and used it.” Gerke was hunting with a Christensen 7mm PRC rifle and using a 175 grain Hornady bullet. On this ranch that his family bought on
Nov. 1, the feeders were loaded with corn, cottonseed and RaxMax trophy mineral feed designed to grow big antlers. Instead of getting a regular shoulder mount, Gerke said he will be getting a full body mount to be displayed in his house. “This is proof that managing your land to grow trophy bucks can be done with great success,” he said. “The bucks in Maverick County have a very good genetic pool. Most of the owners in this area manage their ranches to produce trophy-class bucks.”
Jamie Morgan: 817-235-8410
Bodie Stark: 817-771-1705
LoneStarLegacyGroup.com
Snows, specks and Canadas Continued from page 4
Montalvo said they have been harvesting a few snow geese along with the specks. Aframe blinds have worked well to conceal his hunters, and spreads with a mix of full-body decoys and sock decoys have done the trick to fool the geese. Panhandle outfitter Jacob Salmon said he has started seeing a good push of Canada geese into the Lubbock area. The region has also been loaded with specklebellies. “Most of the Canadas still seem to be getting settled in and figuring out where they want to be,” Salmon said. “There’s been good numbers of them hitting fresh drilled wheat fields.” Salmon’s hunters have been harvesting mostly lesser Canada geese and specks. He hasn’t been seeing many greater Canada geese yet. “Our goose hunts are getting better each week, as more birds continue to show up along grain fields across the Panhandle,” Salmon said.
531 acres; High fenced Appx. one hour west of Ft Worth just south of Strawn, TX
Taking your chances Continued from page 6
the unit you are interested in. At some locations, social media pages supply the information. And, for those making a long drive to the unit, consider setting up a place to stay like a nearby campsite or hotel. “One guy towed in his RV trailer,” Elon said. Going to a unit for a standby permit doesn’t always work out. Sometimes hope-
ful hunters come up empty and end up making the long drive home. In Christopher-Friends’ case, though, it worked out and gave him an opportunity that he wouldn’t have had if he stayed home. Was it worth it? “Absolutely,” he said. “I would do it again.”
305 acres; High fenced Appx. one hour and 20 minutes west of Ft Worth near Carbon, TX
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December 8, 2023
LoneOStar Outdoor News
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TEXAS SUN, MOON AND TIDES Moon Phases Houston
New
First
Full
Last
Dec 12
Dec 19
Dec 26
Jan 11
Solunar Sun times Moon times Dallas
2023 Dec
A.M. Minor Major
P.M. Minor Major
SUN Rises Sets
MOON Rises Sets
2023 Dec
A.M. P.M. SUN MOON Minor Major Minor Major Rises Sets Rises Sets
08 Fri 09 Sat 10 Sun 11 Mon 12 Tue 13 Wed 14 Thu 15 Fri 16 Sat 17 Sun 18 Mon 19 Tue 20 Wed 21 Thu 22 Fri
1:06 7:17 1:43 7:54 2:24 8:36 3:10 9:23 4:02 10:17 5:01 11:16 6:05 11:45 7:11 12:56 8:17 2:02 9:19 3:06 10:16 4:04 11:08 4:56 11:55 5:43 12:15 6:27 12:58 7:10
1:27 7:38 2:06 8:17 2:48 9:01 3:37 9:50 4:31 10:46 5:31 11:47 6:36 12:20 7:41 1:26 8:46 2:31 9:46 3:33 10:42 4:29 11:32 5:20 ----6:07 12:39 6:51 1:23 7:35
07:04 05:21 07:04 05:21 07:05 05:21 07:06 05:21 07:06 05:22 07:07 05:22 07:08 05:22 07:08 05:22 07:09 05:23 07:09 05:23 07:10 05:23 07:11 05:24 07:11 05:24 07:12 05:25 07:12 05:25
2:47a 2:24p 3:45a 2:54p 4:46a 3:30p 5:51a 4:12p 6:57a 5:02p 8:02a 6:00p 9:03a 7:06p 9:57a 8:16p 10:43a 9:27p 11:23a 10:37p 11:58a 11:43p 12:30p NoMoon 1:01p 12:47a 1:33p 1:50a 2:07p 2:54a
08 Fri 09 Sat 10 Sun 11 Mon 12 Tue 13 Wed 14 Thu 15 Fri 16 Sat 17 Sun 18 Mon 19 Tue 20 Wed 21 Thu 22 Fri
1:12 7:22 1:49 8:00 2:29 8:42 3:15 9:29 4:08 10:22 5:07 11:22 6:11 11:51 7:17 1:02 8:23 2:08 9:25 3:12 10:22 4:10 11:14 5:02 ----- 5:49 12:21 6:33 1:04 7:16
1:33 7:43 2:12 8:23 2:54 9:07 3:43 9:56 4:37 10:52 5:37 11:53 6:42 12:26 7:47 1:32 8:51 2:37 9:52 3:38 10:47 4:35 11:38 5:26 12:01 6:12 12:45 6:57 1:28 7:41
07:16 05:20 07:17 05:20 07:18 05:20 07:18 05:20 07:19 05:20 07:20 05:21 07:20 05:21 07:21 05:21 07:22 05:21 07:22 05:22 07:23 05:22 07:24 05:22 07:24 05:23 07:25 05:23 07:25 05:24
2:55a 2:26p 3:55a 2:55p 4:58a 3:29p 6:04a 4:10p 7:12a 4:59p 8:18a 5:57p 9:18a 7:03p 10:11a 8:14p 10:56a 9:27p 11:33a 10:39p 12:07p 11:47p 12:37p NoMoon 1:06p 12:53a 1:36p 1:58a 2:08p 3:04a
San Antonio
Amarillo
2023 Dec
A.M. Minor Major
P.M. SUN MOON Minor Major Rises Sets Rises Sets
2023 Dec
A.M. Minor Major
P.M. Minor Major
SUN Rises Sets
MOON Rises Sets
08 Fri 09 Sat 10 Sun 11 Mon 12 Tue 13 Wed 14 Thu 15 Fri 16 Sat 17 Sun 18 Mon 19 Tue 20 Wed 21 Thu 22 Fri
1:19 7:29 1:56 8:07 2:36 8:49 3:22 9:36 4:15 10:29 5:13 11:29 6:17 12:02 7:24 1:08 8:29 2:15 9:32 3:18 10:29 4:16 11:20 5:08 ----- 5:56 12:28 6:40 1:10 7:23
1:40 7:50 2:18 8:30 3:01 9:13 3:49 10:03 4:44 10:58 5:44 11:59 6:48 12:33 7:54 1:39 8:58 2:44 9:59 3:45 10:54 4:41 11:44 5:32 12:07 6:19 12:52 7:03 1:35 7:48
08 Fri 09 Sat 10 Sun 11 Mon 12 Tue 13 Wed 14 Thu 15 Fri 16 Sat 17 Sun 18 Mon 19 Tue 20 Wed 21 Thu 22 Fri
1:32 7:43 2:09 8:20 2:50 9:02 3:36 9:49 4:28 10:43 5:27 11:42 6:31 12:15 7:37 1:22 8:43 2:28 9:45 3:32 10:42 4:30 11:34 5:22 ----- 6:09 12:41 6:53 1:24 7:36
1:53 8:04 2:32 8:43 3:14 9:27 4:03 10:16 4:57 11:12 5:57 12:13 7:02 12:46 8:07 1:52 9:12 2:57 10:12 3:59 11:07 4:55 11:58 5:46 12:21 6:33 1:05 7:17 1:49 8:01
07:42 05:34 07:43 05:34 07:44 05:34 07:45 05:34 07:45 05:34 07:46 05:34 07:47 05:35 07:48 05:35 07:48 05:35 07:49 05:35 07:49 05:36 07:50 05:36 07:51 05:37 07:51 05:37 07:52 05:37
3:19a 2:44p 4:19a 3:12p 5:24a 3:44p 6:32a 4:23p 7:41a 5:11p 8:47a 6:09p 9:47a 7:16p 10:39a 8:28p 11:22a 9:43p 11:58a 10:56p 12:30p NoMoon 12:58p 12:07a 1:25p 1:14a 1:54p 2:21a 2:24p 3:29a
07:15 05:34 07:16 05:34 07:16 05:35 07:17 05:35 07:18 05:35 07:18 05:35 07:19 05:36 07:20 05:36 07:20 05:36 07:21 05:37 07:21 05:37 07:22 05:37 07:22 05:38 07:23 05:38 07:23 05:39
3:00a 2:37p 3:57a 3:08p 4:58a 3:44p 6:02a 4:26p 7:09a 5:16p 8:14a 6:15p 9:14a 7:20p 10:08a 8:30p 10:55a 9:41p 11:35a 10:50p 12:10p 11:56p 12:43p NoMoon 1:14p 1:00a 1:46p 2:03a 2:20p 3:06a
Legend: Major=2 hours. Minor=1 hour. Times centered on the major-minor window. For other locations, subtract 1 minute per 12 miles east of a location, and add 1 minute per 12 miles west of a location.
Sabine Pass, north Date Dec 8 Dec 9 Dec 10 Dec 11 Dec 12 Dec 13 Dec 14 Dec 15 Dec 16 Dec 17 Dec 18 Dec 19 Dec 20 Dec 21 Dec 22
Time 6:25 AM 6:51 AM 7:21 AM 12:01 AM 12:15 AM 12:40 AM 1:12 AM 1:51 AM 2:35 AM 12:30 AM 2:09 AM 3:29 AM 4:24 AM 5:11 AM 5:53 AM
Height 0.07L -0.20L -0.45L 1.24H 1.31H 1.38H 1.44H 1.45H 1.40H 1.18L 0.97L 0.66L 0.29L -0.08L -0.42L
Time 1:45 PM 2:29 PM 3:09 PM 7:55 AM 8:33 AM 9:15 AM 10:00 AM 10:48 AM 11:39 AM 3:30 AM 5:05 AM 8:14 AM 10:43 AM 12:24 PM 1:40 PM
Height 1.25H 1.40H 1.52H -0.66L -0.82L -0.92L -0.95L -0.89L -0.74L 1.25H 1.03H 0.86H 0.93H 1.11H 1.31H
Time 6:40 PM 7:30 PM 8:11 PM 3:49 PM 4:32 PM 5:20 PM 6:13 PM 7:10 PM 8:05 PM 12:34 PM 1:34 PM 2:40 PM 3:55 PM 5:18 PM 6:40 PM
Height 0.86L 0.98L 1.08L 1.60H 1.63H 1.62H 1.56H 1.49H 1.41H -0.52L -0.23L 0.10L 0.42L 0.69L 0.89L
Time 11:51 PM 11:55 PM
Height 1.18H 1.20H
8:46 PM 9:17 PM 9:47 PM 10:23 PM 11:14 PM
1.17L 1.25L 1.30L 1.31L 1.28L
8:52 PM 9:29 PM 9:59 PM 10:25 PM 10:50 PM 11:13 PM
1.33H 1.25H 1.19H 1.15H 1.14H 1.14H
Date Dec 8 Dec 9 Dec 10 Dec 11 Dec 12 Dec 13 Dec 14 Dec 15 Dec 16 Dec 17 Dec 18 Dec 19 Dec 20 Dec 21 Dec 22
Time 6:43 AM 7:02 AM 7:26 AM 7:56 AM 8:32 AM 9:13 AM 9:57 AM 10:43 AM 11:31 AM 12:24 PM 1:25 PM 4:34 AM 5:01 AM 5:34 AM 6:09 AM
Height 0.30L 0.03L -0.22L -0.45L -0.63L -0.76L -0.81L -0.78L -0.64L -0.41L -0.09L 0.91L 0.55L 0.17L -0.19L
Time 2:16 PM 3:11 PM 3:55 PM 4:33 PM 5:12 PM 5:57 PM 6:51 PM 7:51 PM 8:39 PM 9:16 PM 9:45 PM 8:06 AM 10:29 AM 12:33 PM 1:58 PM
Height 1.39H 1.57H 1.73H 1.85H 1.92H 1.93H 1.89H 1.82H 1.71H 1.58H 1.44H 1.03H 1.06H 1.25H 1.48H
Time 7:13 PM 8:25 PM
Height 1.14L 1.28L
Time 11:16 PM 11:24 PM
Height 1.32H 1.35H
2:38 PM 4:19 PM 6:14 PM 7:35 PM
0.27L 0.62L 0.89L 1.09L
10:08 PM 10:25 PM 10:35 PM 10:38 PM
1.31H 1.22H 1.18H 1.18H
Height 0.19L -0.05L -0.29L -0.52L -0.71L -0.84L -0.91L -0.91L -0.80L -0.58L -0.28L 0.65L 0.34L -0.01L -0.34L
Time 1:34 PM 2:35 PM 3:28 PM 4:13 PM 4:55 PM 5:40 PM 6:32 PM 7:33 PM 8:24 PM 8:57 PM 9:19 PM 7:23 AM 10:16 AM 12:26 PM 1:50 PM
Height 1.25H 1.45H 1.64H 1.78H 1.86H 1.89H 1.86H 1.79H 1.67H 1.51H 1.31H 0.71H 0.80H 1.07H 1.35H
Time 7:38 PM
Height 0.95L
Time 10:27 PM
Height 1.01H
Time 6:16 AM 6:29 AM 6:50 AM 7:19 AM 7:53 AM 8:34 AM 9:22 AM 10:12 AM 11:04 AM 12:00 PM 1:04 PM 4:32 AM 4:40 AM 5:04 AM 5:37 AM
Height -0.00L -0.14L -0.26L -0.36L -0.44L -0.50L 0.75H 0.75H 0.71H 0.64H 0.50H 0.35H 0.22H -0.14L -0.33L
Time 9:43 PM 9:16 PM 9:27 PM 10:02 PM 10:59 PM
Height 0.51H 0.60H 0.67H 0.71H 0.74H
12:34 PM 1:25 PM 2:15 PM 3:03 PM 3:49 PM 4:29 PM 12:25 PM 9:50 PM 9:00 PM
-0.54L -0.55L -0.52L -0.44L -0.31L -0.14L 0.04L 0.28H 0.39H
Height 0.30H 0.36H 0.43H 0.48H 0.52H 0.54H 0.54H 0.52H 0.48H 0.41H 0.30H 0.20H 0.14H 0.12H 0.18H
Time 11:26 AM 11:40 AM 11:59 AM 12:29 PM 1:18 PM 2:32 PM 3:57 PM 5:10 PM 6:11 PM 7:03 PM 7:47 PM 8:24 PM 10:06 AM 10:33 AM 11:05 AM
Height -0.16L -0.27L -0.36L -0.42L -0.47L -0.49L -0.50L -0.52L -0.50L -0.44L -0.33L -0.18L -0.05L -0.20L -0.34L
2:16 PM 3:46 PM 6:35 PM
0.09L 0.47L 0.73L
9:33 PM 9:43 PM 9:48 PM
1.12H 0.97H 0.88H
Time
Height
Time
Height
10:49 PM
0.20H
Time
Height
Time
Height
3:32 PM
0.01H
8:44 PM
-0.02L
Port O’Connor Date Dec 8 Dec 9 Dec 10 Dec 11 Dec 12 Dec 13 Dec 14 Dec 15 Dec 16 Dec 17 Dec 18 Dec 19 Dec 20 Dec 21 Dec 22
Time 8:46 AM 9:00 AM 9:28 AM 10:07 AM 10:53 AM 11:43 AM 12:21 AM 1:38 AM 2:34 AM 3:14 AM 3:25 AM 2:19 AM 1:02 AM 7:24 AM 7:55 AM
Time 1:57 AM 1:37 AM 1:25 AM 1:26 AM 1:52 AM 2:34 AM 3:26 AM 4:20 AM 5:11 AM 5:36 AM 5:23 AM 4:27 AM 3:39 AM 2:29 AM 1:12 AM
San Luis Pass Date Dec 8 Dec 9 Dec 10 Dec 11 Dec 12 Dec 13 Dec 14 Dec 15 Dec 16 Dec 17 Dec 18 Dec 19 Dec 20 Dec 21 Dec 22
Time 6:48 AM 7:02 AM 7:25 AM 7:57 AM 8:33 AM 9:15 AM 10:01 AM 10:51 AM 11:44 AM 12:41 PM 1:42 PM 2:53 PM 5:14 AM 5:39 AM 6:11 AM
Height 0.82H 0.82H -0.41L -0.54L -0.63L -0.69L 1.18H 1.20H 1.17H 1.09H 0.96H 0.84H 0.76H 0.71H 0.68H
Time 10:35 AM 10:51 AM 8:44 PM 9:37 PM 11:50 PM
Height -0.03L -0.24L 1.11H 1.16H 1.17H
Time 6:15 PM 7:53 PM
Height 0.85H 1.00H
Time 11:01 PM
Height 0.80L
2:19 PM 3:14 PM 4:17 PM 5:20 PM 6:11 PM 8:54 AM 9:11 AM 9:38 AM 10:09 AM
-0.72L -0.71L -0.66L -0.55L -0.36L 0.45L 0.14L -0.18L -0.46L
11:23 AM 2:11 PM 4:22 PM 8:25 PM
0.50H 0.47H 0.62H 0.80H
6:56 PM 7:45 PM 10:03 PM
-0.10L 0.22L 0.52L
Height 0.09L -0.13L -0.34L -0.52L -0.67L -0.77L -0.81L -0.78L -0.68L -0.52L -0.29L -0.03L 0.14L -0.16L -0.45L
Time 2:39 PM 3:37 PM 4:26 PM 5:12 PM 6:02 PM 7:01 PM 8:15 PM 9:30 PM 10:07 PM 10:17 PM 10:18 PM 10:14 PM 11:06 AM 1:21 PM 2:54 PM
Height 0.86H 1.00H 1.11H 1.19H 1.23H 1.22H 1.19H 1.12H 1.02H 0.90H 0.77H 0.66H 0.45H 0.63H 0.83H
Time 7:55 PM
Height 0.73L
Time 11:00 PM
Height 0.79H
4:33 PM 6:30 PM 8:11 PM
0.24L 0.45L 0.60L
10:11 PM 10:11 PM 10:12 PM
0.60H 0.60H 0.63H
Date Dec 8 Dec 9 Dec 10 Dec 11 Dec 12 Dec 13 Dec 14 Dec 15 Dec 16 Dec 17 Dec 18 Dec 19 Dec 20 Dec 21 Dec 22
Time 8:03 AM 8:30 AM 9:05 AM 9:50 AM 10:40 AM 12:04 AM 1:30 AM 2:25 AM 3:06 AM 3:34 AM 3:05 AM 1:34 AM 6:28 AM 6:55 AM 7:30 AM
Height -0.13L -0.20L -0.25L -0.28L -0.29L 0.26H 0.28H 0.29H 0.28H 0.25H 0.18H 0.12H -0.04L -0.16L -0.27L
Time 4:15 PM 10:09 PM 9:53 PM 10:33 PM
Height 0.12H 0.18H 0.21H 0.24H
Time 6:28 PM
Height 0.12L
Time 10:59 PM
Height 0.15H
11:33 AM 12:26 PM 1:18 PM 2:12 PM 3:09 PM 4:10 PM 5:11 PM 1:59 PM 4:00 PM 5:28 PM
-0.30L -0.29L -0.28L -0.25L -0.21L -0.15L -0.09L 0.03H 0.08H 0.12H
11:16 PM 6:11 PM 7:16 PM
0.08H -0.01L 0.05L
10:48 PM 10:41 PM
0.08H 0.09H
Height 0.17L -0.02L -0.20L -0.35L -0.47L -0.54L -0.56L -0.53L -0.45L -0.32L -0.13L 0.09L 0.28L 0.01L -0.25L
Time 2:00 PM 3:15 PM 4:06 PM 4:59 PM 7:48 PM 9:26 PM 10:22 PM 11:07 PM 11:40 PM 11:38 PM 10:02 PM 9:21 PM 9:43 AM 1:37 PM 3:25 PM
Height 0.79H 0.89H 0.97H 1.02H 1.05H 1.08H 1.08H 1.04H 0.94H 0.79H 0.65H 0.59H 0.46H 0.57H 0.75H
Time 6:51 PM
Height 0.72L
Time 10:10 PM
Height 0.78H
3:44 PM 6:04 PM 7:37 PM
0.32L 0.50L 0.62L
9:23 PM 9:32 PM 9:42 PM
0.58H 0.61H 0.65H
Height 0.46L 0.19L -0.07L -0.31L -0.51L -0.65L -0.70L -0.67L -0.53L -0.30L 0.01L 0.37L 0.65L 0.30L -0.03L
Time 2:04 PM 3:16 PM 4:14 PM 5:13 PM 6:18 PM 7:29 PM 8:34 PM 9:25 PM 9:59 PM 10:11 PM 9:49 PM 9:24 PM 10:00 AM 1:02 PM 2:45 PM
Height 1.33H 1.48H 1.59H 1.67H 1.71H 1.74H 1.74H 1.70H 1.61H 1.45H 1.28H 1.16H 0.93H 1.15H 1.39H
Time 6:39 PM
Height 1.21L
Time 9:13 PM
Height 1.23H
3:17 PM 5:19 PM
0.73L 1.04L
9:13 PM 9:00 PM
1.11H 1.12H
Port Aransas
Nueces Bay Date Dec 8 Dec 9 Dec 10 Dec 11 Dec 12 Dec 13 Dec 14 Dec 15 Dec 16 Dec 17 Dec 18 Dec 19 Dec 20 Dec 21 Dec 22
Time 2:33 AM 1:55 AM 11:18 AM 11:53 AM 12:37 PM 1:27 PM 1:24 AM 2:49 AM 3:28 AM 3:41 AM 3:16 AM 2:18 AM 1:59 AM 1:57 AM 1:58 AM
East Matagorda
Freeport Harbor Date Dec 8 Dec 9 Dec 10 Dec 11 Dec 12 Dec 13 Dec 14 Dec 15 Dec 16 Dec 17 Dec 18 Dec 19 Dec 20 Dec 21 Dec 22
Date Dec 8 Dec 9 Dec 10 Dec 11 Dec 12 Dec 13 Dec 14 Dec 15 Dec 16 Dec 17 Dec 18 Dec 19 Dec 20 Dec 21 Dec 22
Date Dec 8 Dec 9 Dec 10 Dec 11 Dec 12 Dec 13 Dec 14 Dec 15 Dec 16 Dec 17 Dec 18 Dec 19 Dec 20 Dec 21 Dec 22
Time 6:14 AM 6:33 AM 6:58 AM 7:29 AM 8:05 AM 8:45 AM 9:32 AM 10:25 AM 11:21 AM 12:16 PM 1:11 PM 2:10 PM 4:33 AM 5:06 AM 5:41 AM
South Padre Island Date Dec 8 Dec 9 Dec 10 Dec 11 Dec 12 Dec 13 Dec 14 Dec 15 Dec 16 Dec 17 Dec 18 Dec 19 Dec 20 Dec 21 Dec 22
Time 5:38 AM 6:00 AM 6:29 AM 7:04 AM 0:43 AM 8:27 AM 9:15 AM 10:07 AM 11:03 AM 12:00 PM 12:58 PM 2:01 PM 4:05 AM 4:29 AM 5:05 AM
Texas Coast Tides
Galveston Bay entrance, north jetty
High Island
LSONews.com
LoneOStar Outdoor News
December 8, 2023
Page 17
ADVERTISEMENT
CALONOX 2 SIGHT: THE NEXT GENERATION OF THERMAL IMAGING TECHNOLOGY
The new Leica Calonox 2 series of thermal optics redefines thermal imaging technology by combining high performance, precision engineering and modularity with Leica’s renowned advanced rangefinding capabilities. The Calonox 2 Sight models have the option of an onboard laser rangefinder to increase ethicality and accuracy with this cutting-edge technology. The clip-on Calonox 2 Sight model offers a unique zeroing free, plug and play solution that makes switching a thermal optic between rifle platforms the easiest it has ever been with this technology. The Calonox 2 Sight and Sight LRF are meticulously designed and manufactured in Germany, using exclusively European high-quality components. By only using these top-tier components combined with Leica’s precision manufacturing, the Calonox 2 Sight series of thermal op-
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tics achieve the legendary standard Leica’s customer’s demand. Offering distinct advantages over traditional night vision, the Calonox 2 Sight can be utilized during the day as well as in complete darkness. There is no longer a need for low levels of light or IR enhancers as the thermal sensor detects the slightest variation in temperature of an animal and its surroundings, offering distinct advantages when identifying naturally camouflaged wildlife during the day, or the darkest of nights. The Calonox 2 Sight range also incorporates an optional built-in laser rangefinder so hunters are able to dramatically increase the accuracy of their night hunting. The modularity of the Calonox 2 Sight unit is unsurpassed when used as a clip-on to a traditional riflescope or
as a Picatinny rail attachment in front of a riflescope. The precise placement of the sensor in relation to the objective lens and display screen has eliminated the need to recalibrate or re-zero. The resulting unlimited flexibility allows the Calonox 2 Sight to be switched between multiple bolt guns, gas guns and even rimfire. Hunters no longer are limited to a single platform night hunting system. The Leica Calonox 2 Sight and Colonox 2 Sight LRF will be available for delivery on Jan. 31, 2024. Legal notice: When using thermal imaging technology, please observe the specific legislation for your state. LEICA-CALONOX.COM
STAY STOCKED UP FOR DEER SEASON
Monday - Friday 7am - 7pm | Saturday 7am - 5pm | Always Closed on Sundays
Page 18
December 8, 2023
LoneOStar Outdoor News
LONE STAR OUTDOOR PUZZLER Solution on Page 26
LSONews.com
INDUSTRY Sales rep for Viridian
New managers at Z-Man
Viridian partnered with Maschmedt and Associates for sales representation in the 13 mountain and western states.
Ryan Harder moved from sales manager to the newly created brand manager position at Z-Man; and Brandon McKellar was named sales manager.
Berger sales manager Berger named Bob Goalder as export sales and compliance manager.
PR group to represent SKRE Gear
The Archery Trade Association is seeking a director of marketing and communications.
Sales agency for X-Vision
SKRE Gear named Hunter Outdoor Communications as its public relations agency of record.
Lougheed to head foundation Heather Lougheed, vice president of Boat Owners Association of The United States, was appointed president of the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water.
Several publications sold Arena Group reached an agreement to sell its firearm-related Athlon Outdoors business to Bleecker Street Publications, a new media company which plans to make the titles alldigital. The titles include Ballistic, Combat Handguns, Tactical Life, Guns of the Old West and American Frontiersman.
ACROSS 3) North Texas lake, Ray ____ 5) Hardeman County’s seat 8) Texas second highest mountain 10) Invasive weed bass like 12) Hill Country lake 13) Group of caterpillars 14) Popular bass lake 18) Ammo brand 19) Outdoor retailer (two words) 21) Fishing TV host 22) Fishing rod, ___ Stick 25) The baby otter 28) Whitetail-hunting state 30) Fishing reel brand 31) Texas’ top striper lake 32) Panhandle lake 33) The baby fish 35) Good hook for C&R 37) Fishing line brand 38) Granbury’s river 40) African game species 41) Sinker type
Position at ATA
X-Vision Optics retained H&G Outdoors as its sales representatives for the midwestern and western U.S.
Colt offer to buy Vista rejected After Vista Outdoor announced the acquisition of its Sporting Products business by Czechoslovak Group (CSG), Colt CZ Group SE made an unsolicited proposal to combine Colt CZ and Vista Outdoor. The Vista board rejected the proposal on Nov. 29.
Target acquisition Bigshot Archery LLC has acquired Delta McKenzie Targets, a 3-D and backyard target company.
DOWN 1) Thermal optics brand 2) Senegal’s capital 4) Phase of snow goose 6) Rockport’s county 7) Shotgun brand 9) A Great Lake 10) Corpus Christi’s minor league team 11) Hallettsville’s county 15) Hunting boot brand 16) African game bird 17) Mount Pleasant’s county 20) Signs of the rut 23) A coastal bay 24) A goose favorite 26) Optics brand 27) Rifle brand 28) Falls County’s seat 29) The female pig 32) One of the teal 34) Trout species 35) Shotshell brand 36) One of the wild sheep 39) Popular bass lure
Puzzle by Craig Nyhus, Lone Star Outdoor News
FOR THE TABLE *email LSON your favorite recipe to editor@lonestaroutdoornews.com.
Stuffed venison roast 4 venison roasts, preferably eye of the round 3/4 cup Italian dressing 1/4 cup teriyaki marinade 4 ozs. pepper jack cheese 6 to 8 slices bacon Salt or pepper to taste Insert a fillet knife into one end of the roast to create a tunnel. Continue to work the knife the entire length of the roast, stopping short of the other end. Be careful not to puncture through the other end. Repeat with remaining roasts. Combine Italian dressing and teriyaki marinade in a resealable
plastic bag. Add venison and stir. Seal and refrigerate 3 to 4 hours. Remove venison from marinade. Lightly salt and pepper. Cut cheese into long sticks and insert into roasts. Place end of bacon over the open end of roast. Wrap around the circumference of the roast until entire roast is wrapped in bacon. Secure with toothpicks. Grill on medium heat until internal temperature reaches 140 degrees. Remove from heat, cover, and let rest 5-10 minutes. Remove toothpicks and serve. —Ohio DNR
Baked red snapper 3 lbs. red snapper 2 tbsps. Tony’s Original Creole Seasoning 2 tbsps. margarine 1 can tomato sauce 1 tsp. sugar 1 cup onions, chopped 1/2 cup bell pepper 5 cloves garlic 1 cup celery, chopped 1/4 cup dry white wine
Season fish, inside and out, and place in an open baking pan. In a saucepan, combine margarine, tomato sauce, sugar and vegetables cook over low heat for 30 minutes. Pour wine over red snapper, followed by the sauce. Place in 300-degree oven and cook for 1 hour, basting occasionally. —tonychacheries.com
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LoneOStar Outdoor News
December 8, 2023
Page 19
Now a deer hunter Continued from page 1
minute and then decided to take him.” The buck presented a mostly broadside shot, and Starnes fired. The deer dropped and didn’t move. “It was a perfect shot,” Sams said. “He seemed totally calm.” Starnes said his adrenaline shot up right before he shot, and again after the deer was down. “I shoot guns for a living and I was forgetting to breathe,” he said. “David reminded me. I took a deep breath and squeezed it off.” Starnes said shooting the .308 with a suppressor made the shot more rewarding. “There was no recoil,” he said. “I could see him drop through the scope. Afterwards, I was real jittery though.” After a short, 10-minute wait to see if a spike would return, the two retrieved and loaded the deer after taking photos. Back at camp, it was time for field dressing. “I was moving stuff around with my hand and popped the stomach — I didn’t even have a knife yet,” Starnes said. “That made me a little queasy.” Later, he learned to skin and process the deer, and the cape and antlers will head to a taxidermist friend. “I was really interested in all the meat,” he said. “We talked about recipes and how to mix the venison to make hamburger.” Starnes said his hesitation to shoot one of the 8-pointers in the morning wasn’t from buck fever. “I liked both of the deer, but I was thinking, ‘Maybe this is too easy,”’ he said. Sams replied, “I know it seems easy, but you probably should go ahead and shoot the deer.” The afternoon hunt, along with two hunts the next day, showed Starnes why hunters take advantage when the right buck comes by, even if it’s on the first hunt. “We saw very little the rest of the time,” he said. “On one hunt, the wind switched. The next morning, nothing came in. That night, we had some deer but no bucks old enough to shoot — the best-looking buck was too young. We did rattle in one young buck which was cool. It ran within 30 feet of me.” Starnes came back to Garland after being stationed as an infantry soldier in New York with the U.S. Army, and being deployed to Afghanistan in 2020. After a serious injury, he was sent home early. “I’m now enjoying life,” he said. Starnes appreciated the full experience of a typical Texas deer hunt, including skinning and processing the deer and time at the campfire telling stories and discussing future hunting plans, including opportunities for veterans, leases and other ways to get involved. Andrew Starnes’ first deer hunt with the Lone Star Outdoor News Foundation was a full hunting experience, from getting ready in the blind to harvesting “It was a great experience,” he said. and cleaning his first buck, and finally by telling stories at the campfire. Photos by David J. Sams, Lone Star Outdoor News.
Page 20
December 8, 2023
LoneOStar Outdoor News
LSONews.com
TEXAS SALTWATER FISHING REPORT SABINE LAKE: 74 degrees. Speckled trout are good on soft plastics and live shrimp under a popping cork. Redfish are fair on spoons. BOLIVAR: 60-65 degrees. Speckled trout are fair on soft plastics and live shrimp under a popping cork. Redfish are fair on live shrimp and live mullet. Black drum are fair on live shrimp. TRINITY BAY: 60 degrees. Speckled trout are fair on soft plastics, suspending twitch baits and live shrimp under a popping cork. Redfish are good on soft plastics and live shrimp under a popping cork. Sheepshead fair on shrimp under a popping cork. Black drum are good on shrimp imitations and live shrimp under a popping cork. EAST GALVESTON BAY: 58-60 degrees. Speckled trout are fair on suspending twitch baits, topwaters, and soft plastics. Redfish are good on live shrimp under a popping cork and spoons. GALVESTON BAY: 56 degrees. Speckled trout are good on live shrimp under a popping cork, suspending twitch baits, and soft plastics. Redfish are fair on live shrimp under a popping cork and soft plastics. WEST GALVESTON BAY: 62 degrees. Speckled trout are good on soft plastics and
mullet imitation plugs. Redfish are fair on soft plastics and live shrimp under a popping cork. Black drum are good on shrimp under a cork. TEXAS CITY: 58 degrees. Bull redfish and oversized black drum are good on cracked crab and cut bait at night at the Texas City Dike. Slot redfish are fair at the Galveston jetties on live shrimp. FREEPORT: 68 degrees. Speckled trout are good on soft plastics and live shrimp under a popping cork. Redfish are good on soft plastics and live shrimp under a popping cork. EAST MATAGORDA BAY: 65 degrees. Speckled trout are good on soft plastics, sus-
pending twitch baits, and live shrimp under a popping cork. Redfish are fair on live shrimp under a popping cork and scented shrimp imitations. WEST MATAGORDA BAY: 65 degrees. Speckled trout are fair on soft plastics, top-waters, and live shrimp under a popping cork. Redfish are fair on spoons, soft plastics, scented shrimp imitation lures and live shrimp under a popping cork. PORT O’CONNOR: 66 degrees. Slot redfish are good on dead shrimp and Spanish sardines. Bull redfish are good on blue crab. Speckled trout are fair on live shrimp. ROCKPORT: 57 degrees. Speckled trout
fish.shimano.com
Anglers Anonymous
Needmore Tackle
Anglers Pro Tackle
Pond King
Baits N Blades
Port A Outfitters
Brannans Bass Shop
Port O'Conner Rod & Gun
Katy | 832-437-6058
North Richland Hills | 817-503-2333
Texarkana | 903-832-4545 are good on soft plastics. Redfish are good on gold spoons and soft plastics. Black drum are fair on dead shrimp. Bull reds are good on cut mullet and shrimp. PORT ARANSAS: 57 degrees. Slot and bull redfish are good on cut mullet and shrimp. Trout are fair on live shrimp. Black drum are good on dead shrimp. CORPUS CHRISTI: 65 degrees. Black drum are good on dead shrimp. Redfish are fair on dead shrimp and cut mullet. BAFFIN BAY: 65 degrees. Speckled trout are fair on suspending twitch baits, soft plastics, and top-waters. Redfish are good on soft plastics and cut mullet. Black drum are good on dead shrimp. PORT MANSFIELD: degrees. Speckled trout are fair on soft plastics and suspending twitch baits. Redfish are fair on soft plastics, top-waters and spoons. SOUTH PADRE: 70 degrees. Speckled trout are good on soft plastics and live shrimp under a popping cork. Redfish are fair on spoons and cut bait. PORT ISABEL: 70 degrees. Speckled trout are good on soft plastics and live shrimp under a popping cork. Black drum are fair on dead shrimp. —TPWD
Same day hunting, fishing Continued from page 4
a lot of birds moving in with each cold front. We’re starting to see more geese and sandhill cranes. The redheads are numerous, and we have even collected a few banded ducks.” Ueding said they are hunting the back water areas like Mule Slough and the lagoon. The hunting also has been good down south around Panther Point. The good thing is that hunters are getting shots at a mixed bag of ducks. The only thing wrong with duck hunting in the area is hunters will set up in any blind they can find, regardless of who built it and brushed it. Ueding said that’s been a problem for the past few years. “If we pull up to a blind and somebody is in it, we just move to another location,” he said. “There is not much you can do about that.” Ueding has been placing his spread with 100-150 decoys. “We use a variety of decoys, and lots of them,” he said. “That’s because we have a variety of ducks moving around on any given hunt.” The good news is that there are plenty of redheads on the middle Texas coast, and they respond to calling and usually come into a spread of decoys.
Searching for trout Continued from page 9
Once they get a bite, they have been able to focus on specific areas where the trout are staging. Galveston Bay complex guide Capt. Ryan Battistoni has been finding good numbers of trout in the 2-3 pound range along the edges of heavy shell reefs along the upper end of West Galveston Bay. Soft plastics, top-water plugs and suspending twitch baits have all been working well for him and his anglers. “Satellite bays and lakes surrounding lower West Galveston Bay have been holding a lot of trout as well,” Battistoni said. “Oyster lake, Chocolate Bay and Bastrop Bay have been loaded with fish. Flats with mud and shell in 2 to 3.5 feet of water have been the hotspots.”
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NEBRASKA
Menhaden restrictions proposed
Big drop in deer harvest
The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission approved a Notice of Intent establishing a coastal buffer zone for the commercial harvest of menhaden 1-mile off the entire Louisiana coastline and three miles from Grand Isle and the area between Holly Beach and Rutherford Beach in western Louisiana. The NOI also establishes rules for reporting and clean-up of fish spills by the industry. The extended coastwide buffers will allow for the menhaden reduction industry to make their necessary harvest while protecting fragile shorelines and the fish and wildlife that live there. The measure is now in the public comment period. —LWFC
ARIZONA
Woman trampled by elk An Arizona woman died more than a week after she was trampled by an elk outside her home. The woman died eight days after she was attacked by an animal on her property in the remote Pine Lake community in the Hualapai Mountains, 15 miles southeast of Kingman. The Arizona Game and Fish Department said it was believed to be the first fatal elk attack in the state’s history. It said in a statement that the woman’s husband found her on the ground in the couple’s back yard at 6 p.m. Oct. 26, near a bucket of spilled corn “with injuries consistent with being trampled by an elk.” —AGFD
DELAWARE
Two record blue cats For the second time in less than a month, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control confirmed a new state-record blue catfish. Sydney McBroom, of Bridgeville, landed the 53-pound whopper at midmorning on Sept. 22 on the Nanticoke River. McBroom caught the blue cat fishing from his boat while using a whole bluegill as bait. His catch eclipsed a record that lasted just 20 days, a 48-pound, 7.2-ounce specimen taken by another Bridgeville angler, Chris Andrews. McBroom’s blue catfish shattered Andrews’ state record caught Sept. 2 by more than 4.5 pounds after Andrews had surpassed the previous record (set in April 2022) by four ounces. —DNREC
MISSOURI
Deer harvest numbers Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation showed that deer hunters in Missouri harvested 193,669 deer during the November portion of firearms deer season, Nov. 11-21. Of the 193,669 deer harvested, 105,614 were antlered bucks, 16,081 were button bucks, and 71,974 were does. This year’s harvest total was 3-percent lower than last year and 2-percent higher than the previous five-year average. —MDC
Preliminary results from the 2023 Nebraska November firearm deer season show statewide harvest was down 18 percent from 2022 and down 29 percent from the 2018-2022 average. Lower harvest and deer populations were recorded in 2022 and lead to Game and Parks reducing the number of permits available for 2023. Factors for the decline included severe drought, leading to an increase in epizootic hemorrhagic disease and severe winter conditions in the northern part of the state. —NGFP
NORTH CAROLINA
Rep. to receive Legislator of the Year award Safari Club International named Rep. Richard Hudson (R-NC) as the recipient of its 2024 Legislator of the Year award. Hudson co-sponsored the Protecting Hunting Heritage and Education Act (H.R. 5110) to prevent the Department of Education from restricting funding for hunting and archery programs in schools. He also co-sponsored the Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act (H.R. 615) to bar the Departments of Interior and Agriculture from banning the use of lead ammunition on federal lands. —SCI
WYOMING
Migratory game programs expanding The U.S. Department of Agriculture is expanding its partnership to support the voluntary conservation of private working lands and migratory big game populations from the state of Wyoming to include Idaho and Montana. USDA’s Migratory Big Game Initiative provides a new package of investments in key conservation programs for fiscal year 2024, which includes funding to support increased staffing capacity and the deployment of streamlined program application processes for agricultural producers and landowners. USDA will offer producers a package of opportunities they can choose from to meet their operations’ needs. Programs include the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) and Grassland Conservation Reserve Program (Grassland CRP) and will be available across a wide range of land. —USDA
NEW YORK
Remington to shutter Ilion facility Since 1816, Remington (now RemArms) has been making firearms in Ilion at its 1 million square-foot facility. Now, operations at the facility will close in March 2024. In 2021, Remington announced an expansion of its global headquarters in Georgia, a state RemArms said has “an environment that supports and welcomes the firearms industry.” Aging facilities and the political climate in New York were cited as reasons for the closure. —Staff report
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Beach pompano Continued from page 8
way with small baits, like Fishbites and shrimp,” Meyer said. “We use an item called bait elastic to hold the shrimp to the Fishbite. The rigs are a clip down design that keeps the rigs aerodynamic during the cast, giving up to a 30-percent increase in distance. And it allows you to cast soft baits without the bait getting thrown off the hook.” Asked when is best to fish for this delectable species, Meyer said when the water temperature is right and early in the morning. “If it (the water) reaches 59 degrees, the pompano stop biting and go into deeper water,” he said. The British angler said pompano are one of his favorite fish to eat. Leroy Alexander, also from Corpus Christi, said pompano can be caught year-round, but cooler weather and clean waters are optimal. Alexander said pompano take a variety of baits but pointed out the orange-colored Fishbites is also his preferred method. Farther to the south in the South Padre Island and Port Isabel area, the pompano seem to behave differently. Some people catch them from the surf on the Island’s north side, and an occasional pompano is brought up from the head boats offering their services as early as the month of September. On the other hand, the first week of October is when many fishermen and women head to the Island’s jetty in hopes of catching one or more of the fish.
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Schooling bass Continued from page 8
to structure like lay downs, stumps, and brush piles in about 27 feet of water. “Smaller schools of larger fish, seem to be concentrating over stretches with hard clay bottoms in similar water depths,” Marler said. “These smaller schools can be harder to find, but they typically hold some hefty bass.” Marler rigs the umbrella or Alabama rig he is using with five 1/8-ounce jig heads paired with a Wack’m BootTail by Cross Bait Co. It’s basically got five soft plastic paddle tail style jigs, plus blades to attract fish. His Alabama rig of choice is made by Shane’s Baits. “The schools of bass on Sam Rayburn are really keyed in on schools of baitfish right now, and an Alabama rig mimics a small school of baitfish,” Marler said. “The best approach is to slow roll the rig through or over the school, and the aggressive fish will usually attack it. It works so well, because when bass are in a school, it seems that they want to try to strike a potential meal opportunity before the fish next to them does. An umbrella or Alabama rig gives you an opportunity in this type of situation, to catch more than one fish on a single cast.”
Making rods Continued from page 8
“One of the things I like about small tackle or rod businesses is that when I call, I want to be talking to a person who knows rods or tackle, instead of, hold on and I will connect you with customer service,” Miller said. Sawgrass’ Chris Ralls builds rods and does just about everything not covered by Illich at the Dallas location. “I’ve been here about a year,” Ralls said. “Casting rods, because I’m a casting rod user, are my favorite to build. But I’m really starting to have more appreciation for our fly rods. I really enjoy building New Moon fly rods.” Illich said customer calls are answered by Ralls or himself, and all are welcome. “We want feedback,” he said. “One of my mentors once said the good stuff will make you happy, but the bad stuff will make you better.” Illich said he hopes anglers will support the small rod companies, whether it’s Sawgrass or someone else. “We want everybody that can to fish Sawgrass Rods, and we appreciate the support, but if you are not going to fish us, there are a lot of small rod companies that can use your support more than a big box company,” he said. “At Sawgrass, we are at the highest level of quality we can possibly approach at our price point.” Miller also is the coach and is a boat captain for the Midlothian Fishing Team. “I teach my high school kids to buy good equipment, take care of it, and it’ll last a long time,” he said. “Sawgrass is a quality rod. They work for me, and I’ve had no problems with them.”
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FISHING REPORTS FROM THE GUIDES Crappie on the move at Limestone: Zach Minnix of Jig N’ Jerk Guide Service described the crappie pattern as in full transition to winter locations. He reported catching fish anywhere from 2-18 feet of water. Most of his fish are roaming individually, with few found in large schools just yet. To target those in deeper water he uses a 12-foot rod and a vertical presentation. For fish in 10 feet of water or less, he is casting at them with a shorter rod. In both cases, he’s using hand-tied hair jigs. “There are some quality fish here, and on the main lake you can catch all the black crappie you want.” Bass slow on O.H. Ivie: Brett Cannon of ohiviefishing.com said the bass fishing is slow and that bigger fish are few and far between. Most of his fish are being caught on reaction baits worked in 15-25 feet of water. Fishermen should also take an active approach and stay on the move as the fish are scattered. “You’ve got to be on the trolling motor. You might have to check the same location three or four times a day. There’s a chance at a 10-pounder every day here, but the water temperature really needs to drop a little bit more as these fish haven’t fully transitioned to their winter pattern.” Cooler temperatures slowing white bass on Grapevine: Omar Cotter of Luck O’ The Irish Fishing Guide Service NTX reports the white bass are transitioning to deeper water before winter. He has found the best depth to be 19-22 feet and the fish are moving between flats and creek beds. Jigging or dead-sticking slabs or spoons has been his preferred presentation, but he also adds a stinger-hook because of the fish’s slower reactions. “The cold slows their metabolism. A bite may not move a regular lure enough to get a good hook set, but that little stinger hook works fantastic when jigging or dead-sticking.” Report by Carl Ellis, Lone Star Outdoor News
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LoneOStar Outdoor News
DATEBOOK
Quail dogs pointing Continued from page 1
was using cordura boots but they wear out fast.” In South Texas, the best early reports came from Jim Hogg County. John Nelson, of Huntsville, said his group flushed 17 coveys on a nasty weather day. “I had three nice young men from northeast Texas who could shoot well,” he said. At the Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch in Roby, a fall helicopter survey was recently conducted which resulted in favorable news for the 4,000-acre ranch managed for quail. Surveyers saw 7.0 birds per mile, the highest seen since 2017. The average covey size was 12.1 birds, the highest since the fall of 2016. “We’re pleased to see our abundance trending upwards, and if we can get a mild winter and good spring rains, we should be set for next year,” the ranch reported in its monthly newsletter.
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DECEMBER 13
JANUARY 14
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JANUARY 18-20
DALLAS SAFARI CLUB Store Sale and Packing Party DSC Headquarters (972) 980-9800 biggame.org
CHRISTIAN SPORTSMAN’S FELLOWSHIP DSC Prayer Breakfast Omni Hotel, Dallas (214) 396-7530 christian-sportsmen.org WILD SHEEP FOUNDATION Sheep Show Reno-Sparks Convention Center (406) 404-8750 wildsheepfoundation.org
DECEMBER 16-17
TEXAS GUN & KNIFE SHOWS Kerrville Expo Hall (830) 285-0575 texasgunandknifeshows.com
JANUARY 20-21
TEXAS GUN & KNIFE SHOWS Abilene Convention Center (830) 285-0575 texasgunandknifeshows.com
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DALLAS SAFARI CLUB Corporate Sponsor Bag Stuffing DSC Headquarters (972) 980-9800 biggame.org
JANUARY 19-21
HOUSTON SAFARI CLUB FOUNDATION Hunting Expo and Convention The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center (713) 623-8844 hscfdn.org
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Kerr WMA facility case Continued from page 1
ers facilities to study white-tailed deer in a controlled setting. The 23-acre facility now is double high fenced and consists of breeding and rearing enclosures, and a series of other structures that facilitate the safe handling of research animals. The initial stock of deer in the research facility consisted of native Texas whitetails obtained from various locations throughout the state. TPWD did not routinely move deer into or out of the facility after that initial stocking. The research herd has been maintained as a pedigreed herd investigating nutritional, age and genetic relationships in deer. Dr. James Kroll posted his reaction to the finding on social media. “This area was double-fenced and a CWD test positive deer still appeared,” he wrote. “Maybe now there will be more acceptance of a spontaneous nature to this disease.” Kevin Davis, the executive director of Texas Deer Association, said, “CWD detections are unfortunate for everybody. The detections in the Hollywood Park area of the greater San Antonio metroplex and at the Kerr WMA are an indication that this naturally occurring disease will be found where testing occurs at an adequate level. It is time for TPWD to change the way they manage CWD in Texas.”
The Kerr WMA has conducted CWD surveillance of its wild and captive deer herds since 2002. Surveillance efforts within the research facility totaled 242 regulatory tests since 2018. Wild deer harvested on the WMA through the public hunting program and field research since 2018 have provided an additional 259 regulatory tests with no detections. TPWD intensified its investigations within the facility for the presence of CWD prions since May 8, when the agency received conflicting results — from a presumptive positive RT-QuIC amplification test and not-detected regulatory tests — on a female deer euthanized in January of this year. Assessments within the facility this summer included surveillance with swabs of equipment, water and feed sites paired with targeted euthanasia and tissue testing. Subsequent amplification and regulatory tests confirmed not-detected results on the 66 deer postmortem tested, as part of the investigation. Remaining individuals in the facility were screened with ante-mortem tonsil and rectal biopsies in October resulting in the positive detection from a tonsil biopsy on the 14-month-old male.
>>
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