California Sportsman Mag - Dec 2021

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California

Sportsman

Volume 14 • Issue 2

Your LOCAL Hunting & Fishing Resource

PUBLISHER James R. Baker

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Katie Aumann

GENERAL MANAGER John Rusnak

INFORMATION SERVICES MANAGER Lois Sanborn

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Andy Walgamott

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES ads@calsportsmanmag.com

EDITOR Chris Cocoles

CORRESPONDENCE Email ccocoles@media-inc.com Twitter @CalSportsMan Facebook.com/californiasportsmanmagazine

CONTRIBUTORS Scott Haugen, Tiffany Haugen, Todd Kline, Lance Sawa, Bill Schaefer SALES MANAGER Paul Yarnold ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Mamie Griffin, Jim Klark, Kelley Miller, Mike Smith DESIGNER Lesley-Anne Slisko-Cooper PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Kelly Baker DIGITAL STRATEGIST Jon Hines

ON THE COVER Tiffany Haugen and her husband Scott have waterfowlers covered this holiday season, including gift ideas ranging from shotguns to layout blinds, plus a delicious Indian-inspired curry waterfowl recipe for the dinner table. See page 39 for more details. (TIFFANY HAUGEN) MEDIA INC PUBLISHING GROUP 14240 Interurban Ave. S., Suite 190 Tukwila, WA 98168 (800) 332-1736 • Fax (206) 382-9437 media@media-inc.com www.mediaindexpublishing.com

DIGITAL ASSISTANT Jon Ekse

Pistol Bullets and Ammunition Zero Bullet Company, Inc.

ZER 6 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com

P.O. Box 1188 Cullman, AL 35056 Tel: 256-739-1606 Fax: 256-739-4683 Toll Free: 800-545-9376 www.zerobullets.com



CONTENTS

VOLUME 14 • ISSUE 2

39

A WATERFOWLER’S GIFT GUIDE From calls to a top-notch shotgun and even a rambler to keep that early-morning cup of coffee hot in the blind, that waterfowler in your life would love nothing more than to open one of these gifts for your holiday celebration. Scott Haugen reveals many of his personally field-tested faves, while Tiffany Haugen adds a delicious curry goose/duck dish as part of a holiday-season-planning From Field to Fire column!

(KRISTEN MACINTYRE/CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE)

FEATURES

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

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11 15 19 21 47

CUTLASSFISH CLASSROOM Back in his Golden State days, Lance Sawa usually had no problem getting on a charter boat to fish off the Southland coast. Now an expat living in Japan, this fall Sawa saw multiple outings cancelled by bad weather. But despite some more wind and rain, he managed to get on a boat recently to chase a Japanese delicacy known as the cutlassfish. Wait, a cutlass-what?!? Find out what they are and how Sawa fared on a trip with a bunch of old sharpies.

The Editor’s Note Adventures of Todd Kline Photo contest winners Outdoor calendar A holiday wish list for your hunting pup

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WINTER WONDERLAND FOR SALTY BASS

Even as we hope for a wet winter, the rainy season shouldn’t deter Southern California saltwater bass anglers from getting out for some fantastic prospects. Harbors from Ventura to San Diego hold hungry and active spotted sand, barred sand and calico bass, species our Bill Schaefer has plenty of experience filling up his cooler with. He offers some of his best tips for doing just that!

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BETTER WATER, MORE HOPE FOR SALMON

As the drought left river flows dangerously low and increased water temperatures in California’s salmon streams, millions of juvenile Chinook were sheltered at several state hatcheries and other facilities for the eventual arrival of survival-enhancing cooler water. That time’s come and we check in with the Department of Fish and Wildlife as it begins releasing fish into the Klamath – which might be a vastly different system when these salmon return.

Read California Sportsman on your desktop or mobile device. Go to www.calsportsmanmag.com/digital California Sportsman is published monthly by Media Index Publishing Group, 14240 Interurban Avenue South, Suite 190, Tukwila, WA 98168. Annual subscriptions are $29.95 (12 issues). Send check or money order to Media Index Publishing Group, or call (206) 382-9220 with VISA or M/C. Display Advertising. Call Media Index Publishing Group for a current rate card. Discounts for frequency advertising. All submitted materials become the property of Media Index Publishing Group and will not be returned. Copyright © 2021 Media Index Publishing Group. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be copied by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying or recording by any information storage or retrieval system, without the express written permission of the publisher. Printed in U.S.A. 8 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com


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THEEDITOR’SNOTE

Anglers at Livermore’s Los Vaqueros Reservoir on Thanksgiving didn’t catch a lot of fish, but the simple pleasure of getting outside on a sunny morning is something we can all embrace during this pandemic. (CHRIS COCOLES)

D

uring a Thanksgiving weekend walk with my dog Emma, something really hit me about what we should all be thankful for this holiday weekend. I was in the Bay Area and staying with my sister in San Mateo, and Emma and I took a morning stroll in the neighborhood. We walked past a house with a boat in the driveway and what appeared to be a father and his young adult son. They were checking crab pots, presumably preparing for a trip just after the California Department of Fish and Wildlife finalized an opening of the recreational Dungeness season earlier in November. Maybe it was just an irrelevant observation by me or maybe I was just bored with the podcast I was listening to, but it hit me that we should be giving one

another the gift of the outdoors as the next wave of holiday celebrations beckon this month. It’s been another challenging year as the pandemic inches closer to two years of devastation for so many. It’s been tragic; it’s been frustrating; it’s been infuriating; it’s been surreal. And I know I’m exhausted and you probably are too. Fortunately, 2021 threw us a lifeline in the form of vaccines. I took advantage of that newfound freedom to do some of the things I’m so passionate about; I traveled and attended some sporting events. Reacquainting myself with the simple pleasures we all took for granted until March 2020 makes me realize that we should never forget what we’ve gone through and continue to grapple with. Throughout this COVID-19 ordeal, the

outdoors has been one of the true refuges. Fishing, hunting, hiking and camping offered an opportunity to social distance, to get out of shelter-in-place, and to feel a sense of normalcy again. I might not have caught many fish in the last 21 months, but getting out to a local lake or just being close to nature has felt cathartic. Cases in point: spending my birthday weekend with my sisters at a cabin in the Sierra near Arnold (California Sportsman, October 2020) and camping with one of my closest friends at Joshua Tree National Park (CS, December 2020). My latest outing was spent on Thanksgiving weekend at Los Vaqueros Reservoir, part of a protected 18,500acre watershed near Livermore. This was actually my second time fishing in the area over the past year (CS, December 2020).


These pelicans also loved spending a day on the lake. We can all use a little outdoor therapy. (CHRIS COCOLES)

Someday, we might all take these moments for granted again. But the editor’s opportunities to fish, travel and attend sporting events again are cherished. (CHRIS COCOLES) 12 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com

And while I got skunked both times, I can’t begin to explain what the simple act of casting a line on the bank felt like. The most recent trip occurred on a gorgeous Sunday morning. Once the sun rose over the East Bay hills surrounding the lake, it became too warm for the jacket I wore (attention weather gods: You can send us some needed rain anytime you want). The fishing was pretty slow for the hundreds of anglers we encountered. I saw a couple nice rainbows landed a few anglers down from me on either side, but most of the folks who shared the shoreline looked like they too were just embracing the moment, grateful for the opportunity this day provided. As I packed up my gear and we headed back up the short hill to the car, I started thinking about the father and son crabbers Emma and I had walked past in San Mateo. Where did they go? Did they limit out? What did they talk about out there on the freedom of open water? All I know is that during one of the darkest periods we’ve ever experienced, I was excited for them to share that time on the salt together. So please, give yourself or someone you care about the gift of the outdoors this month. Happy holidays. -Chris Cocoles


calsportsmanmag.com | DECEMBER 2021 California Sportsman

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s e r u t n e v d A

W

e’re not ashamed to admit it: Todd Kline has the kind of life we wish we could experience. Kline’s a former professional surfer, a successful co-angler on the FLW Tour and a Southern California bass guide, plus he gets to travel the world as a commentator for the World Surf League’s telecasts. Todd has agreed to give us a peek on what he’s up to each month. For more on Todd or to book a guided fishing trip with him, check out toddklinefishing.com, and you can follow him on Instagram at @toddokrine. –The Editor

It’s always awesome to qualify for the Major League Fishing National Championship, as it usually takes me to a lake I have never fished. This year’s event was at Lake Pickwick right along the borders of Alabama, Tennessee and Mississippi, and it was awesome. (TODD KLINE) It was a 2,300-mile trip across the country and 2,300 more back in my rig. What an adventure! (TODD KLINE)

calsportsmanmag.com | DECEMBER 2021 California Sportsman

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Do you think they take their bass fishing seriously around here? (TODD KLINE)

I caught this nice Pickwick smallie during the tournament. (TODD KLINE)

If these walls could talk … (TODD KLINE)

Back home in California, it was back to the fall bite. (TODD KLINE) I love getting out on the water in the Southland’s outstanding bass fisheries. Happy holidays! (TODD KLINE)

16 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com




PHOTO

CONTEST

WINNERS!

Coleen Goulet is the winner of our monthly Fishing Photo Contest, thanks to this shot of her and her Columbia River Gorge Chinook. It wins her gear from various tackle manufacturers!

Rob Clarey is our monthly Coast Hunting Photo Contest winner, thanks to this shot of his daughter Riley and her first deer, this central Washington special permit doe. It wins him a knife and light from Coast!

For your shot at winning hunting and fishing products, send your photos and pertinent details (who, what, when, where) to ccocoles@media-inc .com or California Sportsman, 14240 Interurban Ave. S., Suite 190, Tukwila, WA 98168. By sending us photos, you affirm you have the right to distribute them for our print or Internet publications. calsportsmanmag.com | DECEMBER 2021 California Sportsman

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OUTDOOR CALENDAR

North Coast steelie anglers, rejoice! The Mad River Steelhead Derby is expected to start on Dec. 18 and continue through Feb. 28. (GREEN WATER FISHING ADVENTURES)

DECEMBER 5 7 12 16 18

Most bighorn sheep hunting seasons open Balance of State Zone American crow season opens Fall wild turkey season closes Second Northeastern Zone scaup season opens Annual Mad River Steelhead Derby begins (madriversteelheadderby.com) 18-26 Southern Zone band-tailed pigeon season dates 21 Fort Hunter Liggett Period 3 tule bull elk hunt season opens 26 General bear hunting season closes 27 Second archery-only pheasant season opens

JANUARY 1 1

1-14 12

First day 2022 hunting and fishing licenses are valid Online harvest reporting begins for steelhead, sturgeon and North Coast salmon report cards Late-season white and white-fronted goose hunting season dates in Northeastern Zone Last day of duck and scaup hunting seasons in Northeastern Zone

15-16 Northeastern Zone veterans and active military personnel waterfowl hunting days 27 Opener for falconry rabbits and varying hare 31 Last day for falconry take of geese, ducks (including mergansers), American coots and common moorhens in most zones 31 Last day for duck season in most zones 31 Last day for most general quail hunts 31 Last day for statewide tree squirrel, rabbit and varying hare hunting seasons Note: With COVID-19 restrictions uncertain, always confirm events before attending. For a complete list of bass tournaments statewide, go to dfg.ca.gov/FishingContests/default.aspx. General bear season opens concurrently with general deer season in the A, B, C, D, X8, X9A, X9B, X10 and X12 deer hunting zones and extends through December 26, 2021.

calsportsmanmag.com | DECEMBER 2021 California Sportsman

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22 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com


Author Lance Sawa endured several weather-related fishing trip postponements before getting onto a boat in Japan’s Toyama Bay for his first experience catching a cutlassfish. (LANCE SAWA)

BEATING THE BAD FISHING WEATHER DEMONS IN JAPAN By Lance Sawa

W

hen planning a fishing trip, one of the first things I do is check the weather. I know that some people check the moon phases and the tides. Wave height, rain, wind and snow is what I check and watch out for. But that

was when I lived in California, when I could show up at a charter boat without a reservation and still get on. Now in Japan I need to make a reservation sometimes months in advance, and that makes predicting the weather close to impossible. Before, if the weather was not good off the Southern California coast, I

could instead fish in Santa Monica Bay, even if it was a short day trip just fishing the kelp or bottomfishing. It was close to home and I had boats I was a regular on. It was my safe haven for when I really wanted to go fishing but the weather stopped me from going elsewhere. Another place I was regular at

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was Oxnard and Ventura. If I had taken the hour drive to get there but the weather turned, it almost always meant fishing Anacapa Island. The area around the shore is so exposed you have to run to one of the islands for shelter. Yes, the Channel Islands are a chain of eight, but Anacapa is the closest, at just about an hour away. I loved fishing there because there was always a chance at a large yellowtail or white sea bass. Those were fun days. It’s a lot different now in Japan.

FOR THIS PARTICULAR TRIP on the other side of the Pacific, I had to make reservations well in advance if I

wanted to get prime fishing times. Lately, I have had two ships cancel because of bad weather. The first time, I was at a hotel about to go to sleep after a three-hour drive and with my alarm set for 2 a.m. when I got the call that it was cancelled because of wind, waves and snow! I slept in the next day and headed home defeated by September snow. I tried again a week later, but the same weather pattern that stopped me before halted me once more. There was no snow this time, but the slowmoving pattern was getting stronger from the warm water in the Sea of Japan. The winds were howling-mad,

Sawa wasn’t going to defy the weather gods after rain, wind and snow had cancelled previous trips, so he prayed at a nearby shrine. (LANCE SAWA) 24 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com

with the shore covered in sea spray. So I decided to go even farther away, to Toyama Bay on the west coast of the island nation, to escape the weather. It is even more protected than Santa Monica Bay back in Southern California. I was pretty excited to go fishing after all the failed trips. Also, because I would be trying for a fish that I had never caught before, the cutlassfish, which in Japan is called the hairtail. I had eaten it once before and remembered that it was delicious. The season for cutlassfish is long, but the best times to fish are spring and late fall, with the fish counts and pictures seemingly proving it.

WHEN I GOT TO the port, the ship was waiting and I was able to find parking. Once I settled down from the long drive, the captain came and confirmed my reservation. We were planning on leaving at 5:30 p.m., so I had 30 minutes to organize and get my limited gear together. I also prayed at a nearby shrine for safety on the boat that night. As the sun began to set and with the boat’s lights turned on, everyone was ready to go. I loaded a cooler and a bucket and we pulled away and slowly made our way out, passing under the lit up Shinminato Bridge. The beautiful merchant training and naval heritage vessel Kaiwomaru was also lit up in the dark skies. As the boat passed the breakwater I noticed two things. First, the weather was much worse than forecasted. Also, the boat was moving slowly, at about the same no-wake speed as inside the harbor. With the rain and waves getting worse, I knew something wasn’t right. We passed through a squall as the rain and waves picked up and even snow fell. Again. The captain expertly navigated us safely through the weather to the fishing spot. A large trolling motor was lowered, which helped us stay pointed in the correct direction all night long. It kept the 3-foot waves mostly at bay, but a couple whitecaps


Some blue skies greeted the charter in Toyama Bay, located in a protected harbor on the Sea of Japan, or west, side of the island nation. Still, rain, wind and even some snow flurries were in the forecast on this night. (LANCE SAWA)

got over the side and dumped water into the boat. I was set up with a rental rod, and under the watchful eye of the captain I dropped the cut bait into the water to 60 meters, or almost 200 feet deep. Going into the trip I thought that cutlassfish would be aggressive hunters. I quickly learned that was not the case. They are slow to eat and fast to drop the bait if they didn’t like something about your presentation. It became a game of drop the bait and wait. Pull the bait and jig it a bit – but don’t jerk it wildly – then wait. I was also told I could also very slowly reel the setup up through the water column. Once at the top of the fish column, which was 30 meters this day, I’d drop it back down to 60 meters and go again. A meter up, then another meter up. I was at about 50 meters when I got my first bite. “Wait but don’t move,” the captain said as I waited for the final take. A

The Shinminato Bridge and naval heritage vessel Kaiwomaru lit up the night in the harbor. (LANCE SAWA)

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Cutlassfish, known as the hairtail in Japan, proved to be more of a challenge for the less experienced Sawa than others who had more fish in the boat. But generous veterans and the ship’s skipper offered him a few extra fillets to take home. (LANCE SAWA)

full minute went by as the fish slowly picked away at the bait. All this time the captain patiently told me to wait. Finally, the biting stopped and I was instructed to slowly pull up. The fish was on the hook and no hookset was needed. Fifty meters of line later and I had my first cutlassfish. Its colors were wonderful; the fins were thin and reflected rainbows in the light. As the thin silver body danced in my hands, I was warned of the fish’s long, sharp teeth. They have nothing on barracuda or lingcod, though! I caught my next one about an hour later without any help. Luckily, the weather got better as the night went on, but the cold rain and wind slowed the bite. The uphill current was making it difficult for me to keep my footing on the narrow boat too.

I CAUGHT MY THIRD and final cutlassfish minutes before the boat headed in. The man jigging on the bow landed five fish, and a man on the other side managed to catch 19, with the woman with him getting 11 of her own. Once again the locals outfished me, but I was so happy to get any. Most of all, I was thrilled with taking

home a new fish that I hadn’t caught before. Everyone said that this had been a slow night, with one regular admitting that on a normal night he’d catch about 60 fish, and on a good night he’d land 100! Just as I was putting ice in with my three cutlasses, two other men aboard gave me extra fish. As I thanked them, the captain gave me two more. My cooler now had nine fish, more than enough for a few dinners. It was midnight by the time we returned to port and I cleaned up and packed my car. I watched as the

This is what these trips – bad weather and all – are about. Sawa and his family enjoyed some pan-fried cutlassfish for dinner, and even tried some served raw. (LANCE SAWA) 26 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com

captain pulled the boat out of the water. It only took about 15 minutes, but I can’t imagine having to dry dock the vessel after every trip. Man, did he have it down, though. Not once did I get worried for him or his boat. After the dry-dock show, I thanked him for the great trip and headed to the hotel to sleep.

ONCE HOME THE NEXT day, it was time to clean the fish. Cutlassfish is one of the easiest to clean: Cut a bit of the tail off, as there is not much meat there, just bone and skin. The head with the guts come off too, followed by a final rinse of clean freshwater and you are done. You can also cut them into more manageable pieces for cooking. The skin can be eaten, which is full of delicious fat and collagen. I pan-fried some fillets with butter and soy sauce, and it came out great. The white, creamy, flaky flesh looked a bit like halibut, with bones only around the ribcage. I had seen that cutlassfish is also great eaten raw, so I cut and prepared one of the fish that way. It was such a big hit with the family that I served another raw. Cutlassfish season is long, so I will look into going again. If the weather allows me to go, that is. CS



A

t Lake Isabella in the Kern River valley “The lake get’s smaller but the fish get bigger:” Crappie are the order of the day shown by this recent catch in the trees at Lake Isabella. Warm quiet days make for enjoyable fishing trips this fall in the High Sierras. Just a short drive from Bakersfield in the Central Valley. All campgrounds around the lake and up the Kern River are open again after a recent fire threat.

Contact the Kern River Valley Chamber for all the latest information.

KernRiverValley.com

28 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com


FISHING

RAIN NO BANE FOR BAY BASS ANGLERS EVEN IN WET WEATHER THERE ARE SALTWATER BITES TO BE HAD, AND YOUR FRESHWATER BASS GEAR WILL WORK TOO By Capt. Bill Schaefer

A

s we head into winter and all of its passing storms, it can be hard at times to get outside and explore saltwater options that include everything from rockfish to winter yellowtail action. Yet many anglers know they can find some great saltwater bass action within the safety of the bays. All down the coast of Southern California, there are protected waters that hold all three species of saltwater bass. Even in the rain, these bass readily bite and provide some great action. If you do not already take advantage of these fish, let me see if I can pull you into exploring this fishery.

PLENTY OF OPTIONS These bass call the bays home: the spotted sand bass; the barred sand bass; and the calico bass. All three average about 1 to 2 pounds, and wintertime barred sand bass and calico bass can reach to 5 or 6 pounds. All these bass come in larger sizes, plus you never know what you might catch, though you usually have to go outside the bays to find the trophy-caliber sand and calico bass. Spotted bass are usually bay catches only. The International Game Fish Association records for these species are: 14 pounds, 7 ounces for calico; 13 pounds, 3 ounces for barred sand bass; and 4 pounds, 15 ounces for spotted bay bass. (A

Even as the weather gets wetter, anglers in Southern California’s bays can still have a great day targeting various saltwater bass species. Author Bill Schaefer shows off a spotted bay bass taken on a crankbait. (BILL SCHAEFER) calsportsmanmag.com | DECEMBER 2021 California Sportsman

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FISHING Authorthis Billspotty Schaefer Dan Johnson caught in the likes classiccrankbaits, Pop-RSouthland salt. Various style baits entice swimbaits and jerkbaits can to take feisty aggressive to bass this time of year. (BILLbass SCHAEFER) strike on the surface. (BILL SCHAEFER)

largemouth fisherman and send him out on the bay in his bass boat with all his tackle, he would score easily. Spotted bay bass can be taken by flipping docks with spinnerbaits and running jerkbaits over eelgrass, crankbaits along rocky shorelines, and fishing a large variety of plastics and using other techniques. Fish as if you are on your favorite lake and you should do well as a first-timer.

LONG-LINING TIPS

6.5-pound California Department of Fish and Wildlife-record spotty was not submitted to IGFA.)

HOW TO FISH THEM There are a lot of different ways to catch these bass and anyone who has ever fished for freshwater bass and wants to try their hand at this type of fishing will be successful. One thing to remember is that these are bass and should be treated like lighttackle quarry that can provide a lot of fun fishing action. I’ll go over the tackle and make suggestions for each fish and the styles that have been successful for me and other anglers of Southern California. But first, one thing to remember is that tidal movement is important as it stirs up the entire food chain.

That is why many bay bass anglers really study the tides and plan around them. But if you really just want to go fishing, don’t worry too much, as you should be able to catch fish as long as there is some water movement. I like a medium tide – about 3 to 5 feet of water movement – the best. Some like incoming tides better, because the fish are moving up to the shallows to feed on the crustaceans that live there. However, an outgoing tide of the same exchange can be good for deep fish.

FRESHWATER BASS TACTICS APPLY

The most common bass to chase and catch is the spotted bay bass. It can be fished like freshwater bass with many of the same lures. I have always said that if you could blindfold a

30 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com

In winter months, larger barred sand bass move into the bay and there are always fish in the 1- to 2-pound range that will be taken on bass gear. But there is a technique for catching more of the larger bass that tend to hang in the deep water. This technique started in San Diego’s harbor by tournament anglers and is called long-lining. This style of fishing can be applied in a lot of deeper-water situations. The idea is to let out a lot of line behind the drifting boat, with the more line out, the longer your bait stays on the bottom in the strike zone. Every so often you reel in your lure – usually a swimbait – with a slow and steady retrieve. The bite from the fish will feel like a heavy weight has been added to your line. You then need to speed up your retrieve. The heaviness will increase as the stretch comes out of your mono line. Then set the hook. You can use braid for this technique, but I feel I get more hookups with mono. Remember that calicos can be caught along jetties, natural rock and dock pilings with bass fishing techniques. Fishing a crankbait over submerged rock is a favorite of mine. Flipping dock pilings can also be productive, but make sure you’re not breaking any Navy rules or entering restricted waters. Swimbaits are a favored bait for all species. Shades of green, brown and gold are popular.

TACKLE CHECK

Finally, I want to quickly go over tackle. You really don’t need to buy anything new if you are a regular


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FISHING Bill Hokstad knows that even in winter, Southern California’s three main species of saltwater bass will be on the prowl, and your freshwater bass gear should be ideal to fish with. (BILL SCHAEFER)

freshwater bass angler. You may want to have a separate saltwater bass set of rods since some freshwater reels may seize up quickly in saltwater, but you should be OK as long as you wash them off well with hot water after use. A 6- to 14-pound spinning rod, like my Daiwa Tatula, paired with 6to 8-pound Maxima mono or about 20-pound braid to a mono leader will do well for spotted bass, smaller calicos and sand bass. A casting rod in the 8to 17-pound range with 10-pound test will do as well for reaction baits. For long-line fishing, use a reel that has some line capacity. For example, I use a Daiwa DXSB trigger stick and Millionaire reel with 12-pound Maxima in Ultragreen. This setup can also be used for swimbait fishing for the calicos. There are so many variations to all these setups. Just use what you feel comfortable with and get out even if the weather isn’t perfect. CS

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intended to be an endorsement. © 2013 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. intended to be an endorsement. © 2013 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.

calsportsmanmag.com | DECEMBER 2021 California Sportsman

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FISHING

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife took advantage of increasing flows and cooler water temperatures in the Klamath River to start releasing more than 2 million juvenile king salmon it had held back rather than face catastrophic disease loss. Late fall conditions should improve the chances of the fish reaching the Pacific and returning to spawn. (CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE)

FIGHTING CHANCE FOR SALMON CDFW RELEASES 2 MILLION CHINOOK AS WATER CONDITIONS IMPROVE IN KLAMATH RIVER By Chris Cocoles

A

s a late fall rain surge and cooler water temperatures brought a smidgen of relief to drought-affected California rivers, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife took advantage of the opportunity. CDFW is in the process of releasing upwards of 2 million juvenile Chinook salmon that were held back at various hatchery facilities instead

of risking releasing them earlier into less than ideal conditions that could have resulted in a poor survival rate. More than 2 million salmon were hatched earlier this year at the state-run Iron Gate Fish Hatchery in Siskiyou County. About half of that number was transferred to the Trinity River Hatchery. The fish were taken by truck in stifling summer heat, but per CDFW the fish handled the move well, as did other salmon that were held in two more facilities around

Northern California. It was all part of a plan to delay the kings’ release as the state endured another devastating drought cycle that led to river flows and reservoir levels hitting historic lows. “Drought conditions impacting the Klamath River – including a disease outbreak – would have killed about 90 percent of the young fish according to scientific projections, had those fish been released this past spring as is the standard practice,” CDFW said

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FISHING in a press release. As of mid-November, the state had released 1.1 million of the Iron Gate salmon – some were also being held at an adjacent satellite facility – into the Klamath, “now that river conditions have improved with cooler temperatures and increased flows that give the young salmon their best chance at survival and reaching the Pacific Ocean.” This project was a collaboration among CDFW and several other entities, local tribal agencies, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and others. “Dozens of CDFW staff worked diligently over several months

at the three locations in a united effort to save these fish that would have otherwise perished,” noted Dr. Mark Clifford, who is CDFW’s Northern Region hatchery senior environmental scientist. “Over 2 million healthy Chinook salmon are on their way to the Pacific Ocean that will ultimately benefit commercial, tribal and recreational fisheries and will retain the intrinsic value of these fish and their genetics for the Klamath River population.” Of course, a rainy winter will really help these and future fish with a better chance to head to the Pacific and then return to spawn, but as CDFW points out, a series of dam removals scheduled to be completed

In reference to the pending removal of upstream dams, CDFW noted, “The juvenile fish being released this year could be the first salmon to return to a new Klamath River after their life in the ocean and find miles of additional spawning habitat and contribute to future generations of wild fish.” (CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE)

36 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com

along the Klamath will provide more open water for salmon and other anadromous fish like steelhead. “The removal is expected to restore fish access to historic salmon habitat in several rivers and tributaries connected to the upper Klamath River above the dams,” the press release stated. “The juvenile fish being released this year could be the first salmon to return to a new Klamath River after their life in the ocean and find miles of additional spawning habitat and contribute to future generations of wild fish.” CS Editor’s note: For more on CDFW’s conservation efforts, go to wildlife.ca.gov/ conservation.


calsportsmanmag.com | DECEMBER 2021 California Sportsman

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The question is... Do you want to hunt ducks or be a duck hunter?

Natural Wonderduck Water Motion Decoys

The paddle in the back give the illusion of decoy feet paddling! Comes with rear mounted motors that run on two D-cell batteries, for up to 25 hours or more. Optional timer available. Orange weedless paddling feet and foot attachments, easy access for battery holder, waterproof switch and floatation insert.

To order or for more information – wonderduck.com 1-800-876-1697


HUNTING

FROM FIELD...

When it comes to holiday gift ideas for the waterfowler in your life, author Scott Haugen loves Browning’s Maxus II, along with the Wicked Blend load. The Slayer Duck Calls are worth checking out, as are the fully flocked Final Approach mallard decoys, which he's still testing. (SCOTT HAUGEN)

’TIS THE (DUCK) SEASON HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS FOR YOUR WATERFOWL HUNTING LOVED ONES

By Scott Haugen s a columnist of more than 20 years, when it comes to gear picks and suggesting items I think fellow hunters would appreciate, I don’t write about anything I’ve not personally used. Heading into my favorite time of year – Christmas and waterfowl season – here are some

A

gifts to consider.

BROWNING’S MAXUS II I shot the original Maxus for four seasons and I loved it. This year I went to the Browning Maxus II and loved it even more. I used the II in extreme conditions in Alaska, throughout the Pacific Northwest and on a winter hunt in Utah. It’s also going with me

to Texas for sandhill cranes right after the New Year. The power drive gas system rocks, cycling all sizes and brands of loads I used, up to 3½ inches. It shoulders fast and the overall ergonomics make for easy handling. Thanks to the rubber overmolding in multiple locations, it’s easy to grip in all conditions and it’s comfortable all-around. It’s

calsportsmanmag.com | DECEMBER 2021 California Sportsman

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HUNTING

... TO FIRE

Whether you come home with limits of ducks or geese, there are plenty of spices you can use with waterfowl recipes. Tiffany Haugen likes an Indian-inspired coconut curry blend. (TIFFANY HAUGEN)

GO (COCO)NUTS WITH THIS SPICY WATERFOWL DISH By Tiffany Haugen

W

aterfowl season is in full swing, and whether you’re bringing home ducks or geese, or looking to make space in the freezer by putting those early season birds to use, there are many ways to cook them.

This recipe is one our family has enjoyed many times over. Slathering waterfowl in spices is a great way to give them deep flavor and keep the moisture in. This Indian-inspired dish produces a rich, creamy sauce; keeping it all in the oven bag ensures a delectable end product. You’ll start this recipe with one whole goose or two to three dressed ducks (plucked or skinned) YELLOW CURRY PASTE Half onion, chopped 4 cloves garlic Juice and zest of half a lemon 2 teaspoons curry powder 2 teaspoons coriander 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon white pepper 1 14-ounce can coconut milk Using a food processor or mini-chopper, blend all curry paste ingredients until smooth. Place goose or ducks into an oven roasting bag. Place the bag into an oven-

40 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com

proof casserole pan. Coat the bird(s) with the curry mixture and pour coconut milk in the bag. Seal the bag and make several slits on the top for steam to escape. Bake in a preheated, 350-degree oven for 45 minutes or until the meat thermometer reaches 140 to 160 degrees. To brown birds, carefully slice open the bag down the center, tucking into the sides of the pan during the last 10 minutes of cooking time. Remove from oven and let sit for 10 minutes. Serve birds over rice with curry sauce from the bag. Editor’s note: For signed copies of Tiffany Haugen's popular book, Cooking Game Birds, send a check for $20 to Haugen Enterprises, P.O. Box 275, Walterville, OR 97489, or visit scotthaugen.com for this and other titles.


Also Available: Hunts in Saskatchewan, Canada! • Mallard Corn Pond Hunting on 16 Private Ponds • Freeze Up No Problem! Aerators & Springs in Most Ponds We normally average 6 ducks per person during a season Eastern Washington Tri-Cities • 509-967-2303 • www.pacific-wings.net See our videos on YouTube @ PacificWingsHunting and Jay Goble

calsportsmanmag.com | DECEMBER 2021 California Sportsman

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HUNTING easy to strip down and clean and it just keeps working. Info: $1,979.99; browning.com.

The best, most sturdy and roomy layout blind the author has used is the Final Approach Knockout Blind, which is easy to transport and brush in too. (FINAL APPROACH BRAND)

BROWNING WICKED BLEND

For a shotgun shell that gets it done in a range of conditions on any waterfowl you want to hunt, Browning’s Wicked Blend is a solid pick. I’ve shot just about every type of duck and goose in the Pacific Flyway with it, save for eiders, which I wouldn’t hesitate using it on either. The penetrating power of Browning shells have always pleased me, but the new Wicked Blend has taken my appreci-

ation to another level. Wicked Blend is a combination of 30-percent precision round bismuth stacked atop very meticulously rounded steel, which makes up the remaining 70 percent of the load. The bismuth not only increases the load’s pellet count, it offers more energy downrange. The tight pattern and knockdown power of this load is consistent and impressive. Whether I’m hunting late-season puddlers, divers on the coast, geese in Alaska or big honkers in the West, this is the load in my bag. It comes in a BB and size 1 bismuth shot for geese, and 2 and 4 bismuth for ducks. Info: browningammo.com.

FINAL APPROACH KNOCKOUT BLIND

The Yeti Rambler is just one of many Yeti products the author has used and been pleased with when thirsty in his blind. (SCOTT HAUGEN) 42 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com

This is the most comfortable layout blind I’ve ever used, period. Not only that, it’s the quickest setting up and taking down layout blind I’ve seen; and it’s the most durable. It’s roomy for a shell bag and a dog and is easy to move around in. I’ve had older hunters who use the Knockout Blind all agree it’s the most sturdy and easy layout blind to get in and out of. The durable frame and support bars of the Knockout blind are designed so you can put pressure directly on them when getting in and out. There are no pin hinges, and the takedown and headrest bars add even more durability. I’m also fond of the


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HUNTING back mesh that offers concealment from circling birds. It features a waterproof floor and water-resistant outer fabric. Info: $250; fabrand.com.

SLAYER DUCK CALLS

For the past three months I’ve been using the Drake Slayer Double and Single reed acrylic duck calls. They’ve performed flawlessly on multiple hunts in multiple states for a mix of species in a range of weather conditions. Slayer duck calls are some of the easiest calls I’ve run, and beginners will love the double reed. The single reed reaches high volumes, tones and pitches seasoned hunters will appreciate. No matter where you duck hunt, these calls are worth checking out. Info: $120; slayercalls.com.

HIGH ’N DRY BREATHABLE WADERS

The first time I wore these waders was for 20 days straight in Alaska. Since then they’ve been on multiple

hunts in many places. They’ve held up great in saltwater, rivers, marshes and ponds. They’re comfortable, roomy and the simple design offers ease of movement. The Neoprene-reinforced knees with external Kevlar protection worked great against sand and volcanic rock beaches I hunted on. I’m a fan of the quality boot material and dependable suspender design. Info: $339; hndoutdoors.com.

YETI TUMBLER AND RAMBLER

Last season I got a 20-ounce Yeti Tumbler with the Magslide lid and love it. But I usually had my coffee downed by the time I started the hike to the duck blind. So I got the 26-ounce Rambler, which features a Chug Cap, meaning I could drink directly from it so I didn't have to take my Tumbler afield. I liked it so much that my wife Tiffany and I got the half-gallon Rambler Jug for hikes, snowshoeing trips and cross country skiing adventures.

44 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com

Then, of course, we had to get a couple 14-ounce Rambler Mugs with the Mugslider lids. Then our sons joined us on a hike and wanted their own mugs, so we picked up two 10-ounce Ramblers, also with the Mugslider lids. Yes, the lids are efficient and worth it. We wouldn’t keep going back to Yeti drinkware if we didn’t like it. Every component is easy to clean, won’t leak and is incredibly durable. The double-wall vacuum insulation keeps liquids hot or cold on those morning or afternoon outings. Info: yeti.com. There you have it, a range of waterfowling gear I’d be happy to see under our Christmas tree – along with some stocking stuffers, of course. Good hunting and happy holidays. CS Editor’s note: For signed copies of Scott and Tiffany Haugen's popular cookbook, Cooking Game Birds, visit scotthaugen.com. Follow Scott on Instagram and Facebook.



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46 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com


HUNTING

Paw Waterproof Throw. (PAW)

COMFY XMAS GIFTS FOR GUN DOGS By Scott Haugen

D

ogs love Christmas; the mental stimulation of watching their humans excitedly unwrap presents leaves no question about that. But give them their own gifts to unwrap and the doggy delight level quickly rises. This past year we gave our dogs several items that were game-changers in not only providing comfortable relaxation for them, but helped keep the house clean and our dogs healthy. These are items I’m confident every gun dog owner will love, but I think your dog will love them more.

WE ORDERED THE LARGE (60-by-50inch) Paw Waterproof Throw, and a week later ordered a second one. Not

only are these throws waterproof, they’re stylish and come in a range of sizes and designs to go with a range of home decor. The blanket is washable and dogs love laying on them. Be it after a bath, coming in from the rain or absorbing accidental potty leaks, the Waterproof Throw protects furniture, beds and car seats. Give it a good shake outside once a week and you’ll be amazed with how much dirt and hair it also collects. More info: $129; paw.com. Paw also has a backseat dog car cover I love. It’s only $44, is easy to clean and simple to install and remove. The two handles on the underside tuck between the seats, ensuring the cover stays in place and remains safe for dogs.

YETI’S TRAILHEAD DOG BED is the best dog

bed I’ve used. Both of my dogs love it. After a hard day of hunting or a rigorous workout, it’s a race to see who gets the bed first. Thankfully the bed features a removable travel pad so each dog can enjoy it, but, shhhh, I bet they’ll be getting another one for Christmas so that they don’t have to share. We’ve had the bed for almost a year, have washed the removable liners many times, and it’s still like new. The pillow bolster is sturdy and hasn’t broken down one bit. The tough bottom easily handles our 65-pound dog, and the waterproof outer cover is great for road trips. With a three-year warranty, you can’t beat this bed. More info: $299; yeti.com.

WE LOVED OUR DIRTY Dog Doormat so much, we got a second one, then a

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HUNTING third. Not only does this miracle mat collect water, mud, dirt, seeds, hair and drool, it’s so comfortable our dogs often curl up on it for a nap. The microfiber technology of these mats allow them to absorb up to seven times their weight in water. Millions of soft microfiber strands feel and act like a soft sponge, keeping floors clean. We use them both inside and outside entryways, even in our truck on road trips; they’re great for human foot traffic too. Works yearround, be it wet and snowy in the winter, or hot and dry with lots of grass and dust in the summer. The nonskid backing sets it apart from competitors and it works great on wood and vinyl floors. More info: $39.95 for large; dgspetproducts.com.

EVERY TIME I SEE a gun dog on a diet of cheap food, I cringe. That’s like feeding professional athletes junk food.

Yeti Trailhead Dog Bed. (YETI)

Hunting dogs are high-level performers and providing them with high-quality food should be a top priority. For 11 months I’ve been feeding my female pudelpointer, Echo, NutriSource’s new Element Series, and the results of this high-protein diet continue to amaze me in her daily performance and rapid recovery times following hard hunts and

intense training sessions. Element has three times the protein of most foods (up to 90 percent animal protein) and it supports nitrogen and ammonia utilization, meaning there is no extra gas or diarrhea that can occur with other high-protein diets. Kona, my 5-year-old male pudelpointer, eats Element during winter hunting season, as it makes

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48 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com


calsportsmanmag.com | DECEMBER 2021 California Sportsman

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HUNTING an obvious difference in his recovery times on cold, wet-weather hunts. The rest of the year he’s on a diet of standard NutriSource food. Visit nutrisourcepetfoods.com to find a dealer near you. AND DON’T FORGET STOCKING stuffers for your pup. Yes, dogs love opening little gifts too. Smoked cow bones that contain marrow, Benebone’s new salmon-flavored chew, Earth Animal’s No-Hide chews, and healthy treats – my dogs love NutriSource soft treats and jerky – are all excellent choices, as are sturdy balls and other toys. The list goes on, but these are items we’ve been very pleased with, and our dogs have absolutely loved them. Have a joyous Christmas and spoil those four-legged best friends! CS

NutriSource dog food series. (NUTRISOURCE)

50 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com

Editor’s note: To watch Scott Haugen’s series of puppy training videos, visit scotthaugen.com. Follow Scott on Instagram and Facebook.


Destination Honda

For destinations found on a map, or ones that are simply a state of mind, trust a reliable Honda outboard to get you there. And back. Find out more at marine.honda.com or visit your Authorized Honda Marine Dealer.

OREGON EUGENE Maxxum Marine (541) 686-3572 www.maxxummarine.com © 2017 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Always wear a personal flotation device while boating and read your owner’s manual. All Honda outboards meet EPA and CARB emission levels.

calsportsmanmag.com | DECEMBER 2021 California Sportsman

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Rad Power Bikes

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Westview Marina & Lodge

westviewmarina.com Now available for purchase is the 2022 Early Bird Drive-in Fishing allinclusive special package at Westview Marina & Lodge in Tahsis, BC. With a price of $1,900 USD for four fishers, customers save $200 each. The package includes four nights of lodging and three full days of guided fishing for salmon, halibut and lingcod. All meals are included. Says the team at Westview, “You will need your large coolers when you fish with us!”

2021

Alaska Marine Highway System

ferryalaska.com If you’ve ever dreamed of a trip to Alaska, take an unforgettable trip aboard an Alaska State Ferry. It’s an ideal way to travel as a walk-on passenger or with a vehicle, and allows you the flexibility to create your own schedule, explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and experience Alaska at your own pace.

Silver Horde

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Sea Sport seasportboats.com

Whether you’re cruising or trophy hunting, in summer or winter, the Sea Sport Explorer 2400 provides the best performance of any boat in its class due to the signature of the Sea Sport “Deep-V” hull design. The wide walk-around, built-in cockpit steps and a huge hardtop are just a few of the features you will find on a long list of standards. Features include a full dinette and galley, an enclosed stand-up head and increased bunk space. calsportsmanmag.com | DECEMBER 2021 California Sportsman

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2021

Black Hills Ammunition

black-hills.com New for 2021 is the Black Hills Ammo 6.5 Creedmoor 130-grain Dual Performance. Upon impact, the bullet expands quickly; the petals then fracture and continue penetrating, cutting through stressed tissue. Adequate penetration is assured by the projectile’s solid copper shank, retaining a uniform weight, which continues on to a depth of up to 27 inches. Velocity is 2,800 feet per second from a 22-inch barrel.

Davis Tent

davistent.com Find canvas hunting tents, stoves, cots, panniers and accessories at Davis Tent.

Pacific Wings Waterfowl Adventures

pacific-wings.net Hunt corn pond mallards in Eastern Washington with Pacific Wings Waterfowl Adventures. All private property with 16 private ponds and deluxe steel pit blinds. On these fully guided hunts, hunters average over five ducks per day in most years. See their videos on YouTube @PacificWingsHunting and @ JayGoble.

PrOlix Lubricants

prolixlubricant.com Even Santa would love to see a bottle of PrOlix in his stocking this holiday season! There is no product on the market to date that works like PrOlix; just see their ad in this publication and learn more over at their website! Let PrOlix make it a joyful holiday!

Bait Buttons

baitbuttons.com Bait Buttons are a simple and easy way to keep your baits – natural or artificial – in place on your hook.The Bait Button is a silicone disc that comes in a simple, easy-to-use dispenser. Comes in two sizes. Makes a great stocking stuffer.

54 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com


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2021

Nootka Marine Adventures

nootkamarineadventures.com West Coast saltwater fishing at its finest with Nootka Marine Adventures! Gift certificates are available for three luxurious resorts on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Canada. Target salmon, halibut, lingcod, albacore tuna and more. Allinclusive stays with gourmet meals. The perfect gift for any angler!

Woodman’s Pal

woodmanspal.com Made in America since 1941, chop, clear, blaze, build and more with the lightweight, compact and superbly balanced Woodman’s Pal. Unique land management and outdoorsman’s multi-use tool. MSRP: $175.

Ace Line Hauler acelinehauler.com The Pacific Pro is by far the best hauler Ace Line Hauler has offered. More low-end power, redesigned gear head and quad brushes. Plus now in addition to fitting onto Scotty and Cannon downrigger mounts, the Pacific Pro fits onto the Burnewiin premium mounting system.

Outlander Charters

outlandercharters.com Give someone the special gift of a charter trip aboard the Uitlander, a 32-foot Allied Dominator with a bathroom and heater. Wintertime squid trips, springtime halibut combo trips and summertime tuna/salmon trips. Gift certificates available and 10 percent off for active and retired military.

American Turbine

americanturbine.com American Turbine manufactures six models of jets for welded aluminum and fiberglass boats. American Turbine produces repair parts for all domestic jets, as well as repair parts for Hamilton models HJ212, HJ213 and HJ241. 56 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com


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2021

Boat Insurance Agency

Vortex Optics

vortexoptics.com Western hunting demands an optic built for long range and the long haul, and the Razor HD LHT 4.5-22x50 FFP delivers. You still get the core of the Razor HD LHT, including a stunning HD optical system and rugged build in a scope that’s among the lightest in its class.

boatinsurance.net The Boat Insurance Agency is an independent agency representing the best marine insurance companies. They carefully compare a number of policies to find the lowest premiums and best values for your boat insurance needs. Boat Insurance Agency is owned and operated by Northwest boaters. They have the local knowledge needed to understand boating in the West, along with your special needs. Contact them for an insurance quote and to learn more about the value and service they can offer.

California Wild Sheep Foundation Diversified Innovative Products

diproductsinc.com The folks at DIP Inc. are not content with the cheap plastic parts that many firearms companies produce to cut production costs for rimfire firearms. At DIP, they make drop-in metal replacement parts and accessories that are both high quality and affordable. All products are made in the USA. DIP manufactures parts for the following brands: CZ, Marlin, Savage, Ruger, Remington, Tikka, Steyr, S&W, Howa, Marlin, Sako, Anschutz, Henry and others. 58 California Sportsman DECEMBER 2021 | calsportsmanmag.com

cawsf.org California Wild Sheep Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Your membership shows your commitment to the majestic wild sheep of California and throughout the world. The CAWSF “Give a Lamb a Drink” program is installing water systems throughout the historical bighorn sheep ranges of California, which will have an enormous impact on wild sheep but also on other denizens of the desert such as mule deer, bear and smaller animals. Join or donate today at cawsf.org.




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