05 2015ovo

STUDENT ANGLER LEAGUE OPENER - P.9

Ohio Valley

Beware Of Ticks

Story inside page 15

Tricky Toms

OV Outdoor Times

Turkeys are fickle birds. You never know when or what is going to turn them on enough to come to the call. Even the old boss gobblers behave erratically at times.

One thing I’ve learned, though, is that late season By Ralph Scherder can be a really Hunting Editor good time to bag one of these tricky toms.

By the last week of turkey season, most of the hens have been bred and are on the nest. That alone can result in some lonely, love struck toms still out there searching for a willing hen. And when he’s in the mood, I’ve found that he’ll come to a call even better later in the season than he might have earlier.

Harvesting a bird this late in the season usually requires a little reflection on the events of the previous weeks of hunting.

Consider all the places where you’ve heard gobblers the past few weeks.

Chances are those birds are still there and still roosting in the same general areas.

Earlier in the season, when there were fewer leaves on the trees, it may have

Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of Ralph Scherder

The author poses with a nice late-season Pennsylvania turkey.

“A season is a season, and that includes the last day.”

EE!

Outdoor Times

been impossible to get anywhere close to those spots without busting birds. Now, in mid-May, the forest is leafed up and you can sneak within 50 or 60 yards of a roosting bird without it even knowing you’re there. The closer you can get to a bird, the better your chances of pulling it into shotgun range when it flies down off the roost.

Truth be told, gobblers just don’t gobble as much this late in the season.

They’ve been pressured, perhaps even had an encounter or two with another hunter, or simply aren’t as eager to make their presence known. You’re more likely to have a bird come in silent now than back in April, so it’s imperative to be patient and wait at least 20 or 30 minutes after your last calls before moving to a new spot.

I’ve read articles and heard some hunters say that during the final week of the season they abandon the standard box calls, pot calls, and mouth calls in favor of wingbone calls that produce a different pitch that turkeys may not have heard.

While I don’t disagree, I know that when a gobbler is in the mood, he’ll come in no matter what call you use as long as you use it effectively.

A couple years ago, I was after one big tom in particular, and I had encounters with him on two different occasions earlier in the season. The first time, I moved Turn To Toms Page 4

FR

May 2015

INSIDE THIS MONTH

4 Ohio Deer Hunters

13

6 Spend a Night, Gain a 15 Ticks in Ohio Lifetime of Confidence

Fly Fishing Clinic at Cass Scenic Railroad

Donate Venison

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May 2015

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

COL (Ret.) Grey D. Berrier II

Ohio Youth Hunters Check 1500+ Turkeys ODNR

10 A Few Tackle

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ODNR

Ohio Wildlife Council Gets Proposals ODNR

Jeff Knapp

12 Lake Erie Anglers Management Tips ODNR

Should Expect Good Year

09 New Student Angler League Casts First Line OUTDOOR CALENDAR

3-D Archery Shoots - May 23-24, 30-31, June 27-28 (Schedule runs through Sept.) at Lake Milton Fish & Game Club. Sat. 8 a.m.-3 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Cost $10, cubs $5. Contact Dennis Dabney at 330-414-5795.

3-D Archery Shoots - June 7, July 5, Aug. 7, Sept. 6 at Beaver Creek Sportsman Club, Washingtonville, OH. Cost $10 (12&up), $5 (11&under). All welcome. For info. call Chuck York at 330978-3253 or 330-716-3964.

Walleye Madness Tournaments - June 6 at Lake Erie Cleveland, June 27 at Lake Erie Geneva.

100% payout. 40 boat limit. Register at: www.walleyemadness.net.

Outdoor Archery Shoots - June 14, (second Sunday of each month thru Sept) 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.) at Trumbull County Rod and Gun Club. The club is located at 6565 Phillips Rice Rd., Cortland, OH 44410. Call John Chegar at 330-727-7634. 30 Target 3-D course. Adults are $10.00 and Cubs 12 and under are $5. See website: http://www.tcrg.us/activities/archery/eb.

Ohio Valley

We need another interscholastic sport for high school students these days.

As long as it’s something that’ll pull them away from video games. Yes, I know it’s nice having a nineyear-old help you fix a gadget on your iPhone, but we’ve got to get kids outside.

By Larry Claypool High schools in my area Editor started sanctioning high school bowling teams a few years back. That was good. It opened up the sports scene to a few more kids. Maybe the sporting goods stores are selling a few more ‘varsity’ jackets now. Do the kids still do that? I still have my varsity ‘B’ jacket from high school (Beaver Local). It doesn’t fit now. I couldn’t throw it away — it was the only wool jacket I’d ever owned. It’s in the basement collecting dust I assume.

There’s a lot of other sports high schools in Ohio could add. Currently some different sports are sanctioned — I’m thinking of ice hockey — but not many schools participate because of the cost. A low-cost sport, I would think, that could be added is fishing. Currently team fishing at the high school (and middle school) level is gaining popularity, but at this time is considered a club sport and not sanctioned by the Ohio High School Athletic Association.

That may come soon. Hopefully.

I understand the states of Illinois, New Hampshire, Missouri and Kentucky have sanctioned the sport of fishing for high schoolers. Illinois has 200 high schools involved. That’s good, and is probably growing.

In this region a few dedicated bass tournament fisherman have helped organize the first high school fishing league — Upper Ohio Valley Student Angler League (see my article on their inaugural event on Page 9). It operates like a club but the students represent their high schools by school colored jerseys, and by name, but the school districts themselves are not sanctioning the members.

Currently that affiliation comes through a wellknow national bass fishing group, Fishing League Worldwide (FLW). There’s also a national B.A.S.S. organization that hosts high school team fishing events.

Last year, in Ohio, a state championship was held for FLW-sanctioned umbrella. Twenty teams qualified out of 50-100 teams statewide. Most other states host state championships also.

Upper Ohio Valley Student Angler League organizer Harry Emmerling said he hopes the state of Ohio will soon sanction team fishing. “I read a statistic that 61% of student anglers don’t participate in other school sports. I think that it’s important that kids get involved In school-related activities, so it seems like it would connect with a lot of students who are currently not involved as much,” said Emmerling.

What may help cast a lighter line for states to sanction fishing at the high school level is the surge and popularity of college fishing recently.

And there’s a professional FLW tournament circuit. It’s quickly becoming a cool sport for college-age young people. Probably the exposure of television and the Internet has helped fuel that.

And big corporate sponsors are now getting on board. Now we’re talking about MONEY, and everyone’s listening.

Possible sponsorships at the high school level will fuel sanctioning, I’m sure. But having a few good core national groups like FLW and B.A.S.S. should help the cause. And tournament fishing can be a good, clean and fun sport. Athletes — male or female — don’t have to be the biggest or strongest kids in school either.

Emmerling said the local UOV club stresses safety to its members, and teach them about bass biology, environmental concerns, fishing etiquette, and rules and regulations. “They have to do a mandatory three hours of classroom time before they’re allowed on a boat. We also make them organize into a club,” said Emmerling.

Fish on! We have some great inland fishing waters for bass and those would make for great locations for state championships. I hope they get this done soon.

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

Outdoor Times May 2015

State-sanctioned High School Fishing: Will Ohio Join?

OV Outdoor Times

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Graphics Designer, Linda McKenzie lmckenzie@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com

VOL. 7, NO. 05

is published by Ohio Valley Outdoors Magazine

Offices located at

Ohio Valley Outdoor Times

210 E. 4th Street, East Liverpool, OH 43920 Phone 330-385-2243, Fax 330-385-7114 ohvod@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com

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

Contributing Editors

Ralph Scherder, Hunting Editor Jeff Knapp, Fishing Editor Brian Miller, Field Editor

QUESTIONS, COMMENTS

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May 2015

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

May 2015

Ohio Deer Hunters Donate Venison to Local Food Banks

COLUMBUS, OH — Ohio hunters donated 1,017 harvested white-tailed deer to local food banks to benefit Ohioans in need during the 2014-2015 season that ended February 1. The ODNR Division of Wildlife works together with Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry (FHFH) to assist with the processing costs associated with donating venison to a food bank. The program allows for subsidy grants to be provided in allotments that are matched with funds generated or collected by local Ohio FHFH chapters.

Food banks received approximately 50,850 pounds of venison and 203,400 meals for needy Ohioans. One processed deer amounts to approximately 50 pounds of venison and 200 meals. Go to fhfh.org to find a local Ohio deer donation program.

Toms From Page 1

too quickly and he busted me. The second time, I flat out missed him at 35 yards. The third time, though, which was the last week of the season, I finally got him. All three times I called in that bird with the same slate call.

Common advice to turkey hunters is to not call too much. That’s good advice, to an extent. Better advice is to match the intensity of the gobbler’s calls. If a bird is hot and one particular sound you’re making seems to fire him up that much more, keep making that sound. In my experience, nothing spooks a tricky tom more than when I suddenly stop calling because I think he’s on his way in.

Bottom line, if the bird is responding to your calls, keep calling until he comes into view.

Traditionally, turkey hunting has always been associated with early mornings. Yes, first light is a great chance to kill a gobbler. Like fishing, though, there are usually several “biting sprees” throughout the day. One of those times, for me, has been late morning, between 10 and noon. Back before the convenience of all day hunting, I killed several birds just minutes before quitting time.

Now that we can hunt all day during the second half of the season, late afternoon can also be a great time to bag a gobbler. Many times I’ve seen them out in a clover field or food plot the last hour of light. Even if you don’t have the ambition to sneak into position to make an attempt to get an opportunity, evening drives can be a great way to locate birds.

• Venison donated to participating food banks must be processed by a federal, state, or locally inspected and insured meat processor. Hunters wishing to donate their deer are not required to pay for the processing of the venison as long as the program has available funds.

• Ohio ranks fifth nationally in hunterdonated venison, according to the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

Nationally, hunters provided more than 11 million meals to people in need.

• Ohio has 64 participating meat processors and 34 FHFH local chapters.

Anyone interested in becoming a local program coordinator or a participating meat processor can find more information at fhfh.org.

• Hunters can also donate venison through Safari Club International’s Sportsmen Against Hunger program.

After all, if you see a gobbler in a field an hour before dark, then there’s a pretty good chance he’ll be somewhere near that location the next morning.

Birds can be wary later in the season, and they may not come in as close as they might early on, so longer shots are a definite possibility. Fifteen to 20-yard shots can happen, but 40-yard shots are more likely. The most common turkey gun is a 12-gauge with 3-inch magnums, which will certainly do the job. However, practicing at longer ranges will make you more deadly in the late season.

Any weapon is only as good as the hunter using it.

Another thing to keep in mind is that, because there are more leaves and ground cover in the late season, you’ll probably be aiming at a smaller target.

The last two gobblers I’ve killed, in fact, all I’ve had for aiming points were the tops of their heads. Once I caught glimpses of their beards through the foliage, I didn’t wait for a fully body view to shoot. This time of year, any hesitation can mean the difference between a dead bird and a running away bird. As soon as I identify the bird as a bearded tom and he’s within range, I take the shot.

Turkey season is winding down, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to quit. Even with just a week or a few days remaining, bagging a trophy tom is still possible. A season is a season, and that includes the last day. As the great Yogi Berra once said, “It ain’t over til it’s over.”

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Spend a Night, Gain a Lifetime of Confidence

6

OV Outdoor Times

Here’s the scenario. You’ve dreamt of taking your first elk out west all your life.

After saving up and making plans for several years, the pieces finally fall into place and you are out in Colorado on the semi(Ret.)Grey D. Berrier II guided hunt you’ve By Col. FIN Pro Staff always hoped for.

The outfitter packs you and three of your friends on horseback back in the wilderness to his remote spike camp, eight miles from the trailhead. The first morning you split up and you head off by yourself. Things look promising in the next drainage and you begin to see abundant elk sign. Late in the afternoon, you see a very respectable herd bull and several cows about 800 yards ahead and you attempt to close the distance. The elk continue to meander and you doggedly follow in anticipation of a shot.

After playing the cat-and-mouse game for a few hours, you realize that you’re

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rapidly running out of daylight and there are over three miles of rugged terrain between you and camp. Not wanting to attempt to hike out in the darkness and determined to stay on this bull elk, you decide that your best option is to remain right where you are overnight. You planned for the possibility of bivouacking in the wilderness and brought along a few essentials in your daypack: a small tarp and a lightweight sleeping bag. It sounds like you’re prepared, but are you really ready to spend the night in the woods alone? Have you honestly ever spent a single night in the woods all alone at some point in your life?

If you ever want to get an interesting conversation going amongst a group of outdoorsmen and women, bring up the subject of spending a night truly alone in the woods. I’m not talking about sleeping in a tent by yourself in the backyard, at Scout camp, in a campground, in the field on a military training exercise, or even along a major hiking trail; any cirTurn To Night Page 7

May 2015

Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Grey D. Berrier II

A simple bivouac site, consisting of a poncho lean-to, ground cloth, and sleeping bag makes for a comfortable night alone in the woods.

May 2015

Night From Page 6

cumstances where other campers, or people in general, are in close proximity.

I’m focusing on being outdoors, overnight, all alone, at least a mile or more from the nearest person or occupied structure. Through my informal research, I’ve learned that less than 10% of seasoned outdoorsmen and women, here in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia have ever spent a single night alone in the woods. When I broaden my questioning to the overall population in our area, I’ve quickly realized that only 1% has ever accomplished this task.

Even though I had camped out well over a hundred nights growing up, I have to admit that I didn’t spend my first night alone in the woods until I was 23. As a young U.S. Army Field Artillery Lieutenant, I had the privilege of being assigned to Fort Wainwright in Fairbanks, Alaska from 1985-89. For an enthusiastic outdoorsman with a BS in Wildlife Science from Penn State, it was my dream come true. I quickly learned that I had to get away from town, the road network, and other people to find game and the pristine outdoor experience I craved. This meant driving well outside Fairbanks and then hiking back into re-

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

mote drainages where I was the only human being for miles. I realized that I had to develop a “western mentality” expecting to spend nights alone in the vast wilderness based on the distances and that required confronting any fear of being alone in the woods and dealing with the unknown in the darkness. I not only survived those experiences, but thrived on those opportunities to hone my woodsmanship skills and self-confidence.

Let me share some of the lessons I learned from my experiences in “The Last Frontier”. There are both mental and logistical preparations required. You need to steel your resolve that you can do this and do it well, while pushing back the unsettling messages from modern media that something lurks in the shadows. Fear of the unknown is probably the biggest reason keeping most people out of the woods alone at night.

After conquering your phobias, the logistical preparations are quite logical.

Realize that your biggest threat is hypothermia, an uncontrollable drop in body temperature. Having the proper clothing and gear to stay warm and dry is essential. Some form of shelter and sleeping gear is necessary, whether that is a tent/tarp and sleeping bag when you

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anticipate spending the night afield, or an oversized contractor’s garbage bag and emergency space blanket that weigh next to nothing, when the odds are much less.

Your body will need some form of caloric intake, since food and snacks are the fuel that keeps you going. Additionally, a simple water purifier, or some means of water purification, and a water storage container are necessary to acquire potable water wherever you may be. Finally, always carry at least two means of starting a fire. I pack matches or a lighter, and also my magnesium fire starter as a back-up. A simple fire provides light and warmth, while offering a means of food preparation, and is a welcome source of companionship and protection from the unknown for the solitary traveler. With a little planning and a minimal amount of equipment, you too can spend a safe, comfortable night in the woods.

We have all read with significant interest the historical exploits of solitary frontiersmen and mountain men, legendary hermits in remote regions, and hunters and trappers in Alaska, the Canadian wilderness, or the vast expanses of the Western United States; and we admire their independent, rugged individualism.

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When you start to think about it, most people in our area, including outdoorsmen and women, have never spent a night alone in the woods because we really don’t have any reason to, the overwhelming majority of the time. But what if the circumstances arise that force you to do so?

As hunters, fishermen, hikers, campers, and canoeists, we are drawn to places less traveled and the potential adventure that is associated with going there. None of us have a crystal ball or are blessed with the ability to foresee the future. A natural disaster, medical emergency, widespread crisis, transportation problem, unpredictable circumstances, or geographical remoteness could force you to spend to spend a night alone in the woods. Don’t you think that it is important to be prepared and have undergone a “test run” on your own terms before a situation arises. I would like to encourage you to complete the challenging task of spending a night alone in the woods sometime this summer. You will be surprised at the confidence it inspires within you when you know you possess the competence to go it alone in the woods overnight.

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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Ohio Youth Hunters Check 1,500+ Wild Turkeys

COLUMBUS, OH — Ohio youth hunters checked 1,589 wild turkeys during the 2015 spring youth hunting season, April 18-19.

• Last year’s youth hunters killed 1,480 wild turkeys.

• Ohio’s spring wild turkey season opened April 20 and runs through May 17.

• Hunters are required to have a hunting license and a spring turkey hunting permit. The spring season bag limit is two bearded turkeys. Hunters can harvest one bearded turkey per day, and a second spring turkey permit can be purchased at any time throughout the spring turkey season. Turkeys must be checked by 11:30 p.m. the day of harvest.

• All hunters must report their turkey harvest using the automated game-check system. Hunters have three options to complete the game check: ohiogamecheck.com; call 877-TAGITOH (824-4864); or visit a license agent. A list of agents can be found at wildohio.gov or by calling 800WILDLIFE (945-3543).

• Hunting hours are 30 minutes before

sunrise until noon from April 20-May 3.

Hunting hours from May 4-17 will be 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

• Hunters may use shotguns or archery equipment to hunt wild turkeys. It is unlawful to hunt turkeys using bait, live decoys or electronic calling devices or to shoot a wild turkey while it is in a tree.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife advises turkey hunters to wear hunter orange clothing when entering, leaving or moving through hunting areas in order to remain visible to others.

• Wild turkeys were extirpated in Ohio by 1904 and were reintroduced in the 1950s by the ODNR Division of Wildlife. Ohio’s first modern day wild turkey season opened in 1966 in nine counties, and hunters checked 12 birds.

The wild turkey harvest topped 1,000 for the first time in 1984. Spring turkey hunting opened statewide in 2000, and Ohio hunters checked more than 20,000 wild turkeys for the first time that year.

May 2015

Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of Bill Hall, Jr.

Chase Stradwick (left front), age 14, and Brayden Gibboney (right front), age 8, harvested wild turkeys during the recent 2015 youth turkey hunting season in Ohio.

The birds were killed in Guernsey County, OH. Chase’s bird weighed in at 23lb, with a 10’ beard. Brayden’s bird sported a 5’ beard. Assisting on the hunt was (back, from left) Bill Hall, Deonte Stradwick and Clint Gibboney.

May 2015

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

New Student Angler League Casts First Line OV Outdoor Times

The first ever Upper Ohio Valley Student Angler League event was held April 26 at Bibbee’s Lake near Glenmoor, OH. Eight regional anglers, from three different school dis- By Larry Claypool tricts, participated Editor in the inaugural fishing tournament. Hopewell High School won the event, followed by Beaver Local High School, UOV High School, East Liverpool High School Blue and East Liverpool White.

Individually the top angler award went to Hopewell’s Curt Jenna, 4.24lbs; followed by Justin Flowers of Beaver Local, 3.48lb; Danny Gentile of Hopewell, 3.45lb and Stephanie Emmerling of East Liverpool Blue, 3.15lb.

Jenna also claimed the J & J Tire Big Bass Award with a 2.11lb fish.

The Upper Ohio Valley (UOV) Stu-

dent Angler League is the first of it’s kind in the area. Harry Emmerling has been the driving force behind starting the league, which operates like a club.

He hopes it will grow. They are currently talking with a few other schools to participate next season. “I could see a time when there could be divisions up and down the Ohio Valley, much like the OVAC is in football,” said Emmerling.

The group has started out small though. Currently there are eight students from three different school districts. They follow rules and regulations set by the Fishing League Worldwide (FLW) and Student Angler Federation.

There were about 20 high school teams that participated in the Ohio state champions last year. Emmerling estimates that there are 50-100 high schools represented with clubs in the state. A few states have sanctioned fishing teams into their state athletic associations, just like football, basketball and the others.

The FLW College Fishing circuit is growing rapidly with many schools of -

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Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Larry Claypool

The top three placers in the inaugural Upper Ohio Valley Student Angler League event was: (from left) Curt Jenna of Hopewell, Justin Flowers of Beaver Local and Danny Gentile of Hopewell. Jenna also won the Big Bass award.

fering scholarships for top anglers. Regionally Kent State, Akron, West Virginia and Youngstown State universities have very active fishing teams. There

are many key regional and national college fishing tournaments and teams Turn To Angler Page 18

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

A Few Tackle Management Tips

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OV Outdoor Times

Regardless of the species you fish for, managing your tackle in a manner that protects it and keeps it organized will do a lot to increase your level of enjoyment.

Here are a few tips and observations By Jeff Knapp Fishing Editor along this line.

O N - B O A R D TACKLE STORAGE — This is one I’ve struggled with for years: the best way to keep lures, soft baits, terminal tackle and miscellaneous items not only organized but also dry. This evolutionary process has included hard tackle boxes and softsided tackle bags of several configurations.

Since I fish for a variety of species the tackle bag, which accepts utility boxes, worked out best. By categorizing and storing lures by type – spinnerbaits, crankbaits, soft-bodied baits, hard jerkbaits, etc. – it was a simple matter of switching out boxes for the fish species being targeted that particular outing. The

problem was the bags were not waterproof; water resistant perhaps, but lures still got wet, and you know what that means.

Tired of drying out gear and replacing rusty hooks, my next strategy was to store things in a commercial grade plastic storage tub. In went the utility boxes, along with zip-lock style bags for soft baits and accessories. It wasn’t a bad system – it kept things dry – but it seemed like all the small items made their way to the bottom of the tub. It was a hassle locating items like spools of monofilament for leaders, the scale to weight fish, or that small box with hooks and sinkers.

So, last spring when I saw Plano’s new Hydro-Flo line of tackle bags, I thought, “this is the answer to my problems.”

Having for a full season used the bag – more specifically the model 4845 – I can confirm that it is. No more searching for gear; no more wet rusty hooks.

The Hydro-Flo bag features a spacious main compartment that holds individual utility boxes. I continue to use the combination of boxes (for hard baits) and zip-

May 2015

Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Jeff Knapp

Plano’s Hydro-Flo tackle bag is a great tool for organizing gear and keeping it dry.

lock bags for soft baits. A zippered lid tops off the bag’s main area, along with a waterproof cover that buckles down over everything, including the tops of the zippered side compartments. These side compartments are perfect for segregating smaller items. A storage area in the back of the bag, formed by bungee-style net-

ting, is great for holding individual bags of soft baits — like tubes or plastic worms — being fished with that day.

They are easy to get to, and don’t try flying out of the boat when you run to your next stop. The bag sits on a rigid hard

New PA License Plate Celebrates Hunting Heritage

CWD Update: Disease Detected in Six More PA Deer

HARRISBURG, PA — Hunters are known for putting on drives. And drivers now can make known the pride they take in being Pennsylvania hunters.

Pennsylvania’s new Hunting Heritage license plate – an official plate issued by the state Department of Transportation – is available to order from the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

Each plate costs $56, of which $25 goes to the Game Commission to be used for conservation initiatives.

Commemorative patches and decals featuring the Hunting Heritage logo also are being sold, for $5.66 and $2.83, respectively.

Those looking to order a license plate can most easily do so by visiting the Game Commission’s website, www.pgc.state.pa.us.

Order forms for license plates, patches and decals, as well as the PennDOT application form that’s needed to get a plate, all can be printed from the website. To find these forms, simply click on the Hunting Heritage License Plate icon pictured on the website’s homepage.

Turn To Tackle Page 11

HARRISBURG, PA — From the start of 2014 through the present, six additional cases of chronic wasting disease have been documented in Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Game Commission announced recently.

All six deer to test positive were killed on highways within Disease Management Area 2 (DMA 2), the only area of the state where chronic wasting disease (CWD) has been detected in free-ranging deer.

None of the samples collected from deer or elk harvested by hunters anywhere in the state during the 2014-15 hunting seasons tested positive for CWD, and no road-killed deer or elk from outside DMA 2 tested positive.

Additionally, no new cases have been detected in captive deer or elk outside the borders of an established Disease Management Area (DMA).

However, the boundary of DMA 2 again has been expanded because CWD-positive deer detected within DMA 2 or in Maryland were near previous boundaries. Pennsylvania’s CWD Response Plan requires a 10-mile buffer around sites associated with positive tests.

May 2015

Tackle From Page 10

plastic base that elevates the storage areas — if rain water is sloshing around the floor of the boat it won’t reach your gear — unless you forgot to put in the boat’s drain plug, in which case you have bigger problems.

Having used this bag for over a year — during with it’s been exposed to all sorts of weather during the course of 100-plus trips — I’ve yet to have a single issue with moisture from rain or snow melt reaching my stuff.

THE TOOL DILEMMA — You’d thing that finding fishing pliers, line nippers and hook removers within the confines of a boat wouldn’t be that difficult.

After all, a boat, even a big bass boat, is only so big, right? I can attest that the 18-foot interior of my boat is great for hiding these tools, and I bet your craft is too.

Here are a couple things you can do.

Most “fishing tool” kits come with a nylon holster that has pockets for the pliers, scissors, maybe even a hook sharpener. The holster has a belt loop, and can certainly be worn in its intended manner.

Personally I don’t care for having this much hardware hanging off my hip, or the need to find the right slot for the right

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

tool every time I use an item. But the holsters are great for attaching to the pedestal of a boat seat. Use a couple nylon wire-ties to secure them. I have ones lashed to pedestals on both the front and rear decks. They hold pliers, scissors for braided line and a small Baker hook remover.

Another option I’ve used the past year is a Dr. Slick fishing pliers with built-in cutters. It comes with a coiled lanyard, which not only protects it from going overboard but ensures you’ll return it to its holster rather than setting it down, where it will inevitably become hidden.

And since it’s a single tool, this act soon becomes second nature. The cutters do a good job on braid as well as nylon and fluorocarbon monofilaments.

FLY CONTROL — No, not an embarrassing moment with your trousers zipper; or keeping pesky mosquitos at bay.

Rather, doing away with those times when you open a fly box and have a few items of fur and feather, ones that worked their way free, fall into the creek.

Fly boxes come in several designs.

One of the more popular ones employs foam with a series of tiny slits that hold the fly hook. They work pretty well, but it’s still common for a fly or two to shake free, providing potential for an unwel-

11 profile it might not be well-suited for dry flies – especially larger ones – as delicate wings could be crushed.

Tacky Fly Boxes aren’t cheap, but if they save you a few flies (and hand dips into ice-cold water to attempt rescue of untethered flies) you might consider the investment.

Liberty Adds .45 Long Colt

Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Ralph Scherder

Dr. Slick fishing pliers

come surprise upon opening. This quandary is all but eliminated with the “Tacky Fly Box,” which uses soft silicone rather than foam. The slits actually hold the flies; and the rows of slits are offset, utilizing the space much better (and aiding in storing and retrieving flies).

Currently the Tacky Fly Box comes in a 7.5 x 3 inch version, as well as a 5 x 3 inch “Day Pack” model. Both are 3/4 inch thick. I’ve used the standard model for about a month to hold nymphs, and it preforms as advertised. Due to its thin

BRADENTON, FL — Liberty Ammunition, the global leader in high performance, lead-free ammunition for military, law enforcement and civilian markets, has added the .45 Long Colt caliber to their growing line of Civil Defense personal defense rounds.

The popularity of the .45 Long Colt started in 1872 when it was designed specifically for one of the finest guns in all of America’s history: the Colt Single Action Army revolver. The powerful cartridge was an effective negotiator during our country’s push west and was used for protection and hunting by many Americans. Check out the entire line of high performance, lead-free Liberty Ammunition at www.libertyammunition.com.

12

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Lake Erie Anglers Should Expect Good Fishing Again in 2015

COLUMBUS, OH — Anglers in pursuit of Lake Erie’s sport fish should experience another successful year as they pursue a variety of fishing opportunities in 2015, according to Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

“Similar to 2014, we expect fishing to be good again this year, especially when you consider the mix of species and sizes that are seasonally available to Ohio anglers on Lake Erie,” said Jeff Tyson, Lake Erie fisheries program manager for the ODNR Division of Wildlife. “While fishing success will vary among species and seasons, the lake’s population of walleye, yellow perch, black bass, white bass and steelhead are all stable, with a very broad distribution of sizes for each species.”

As a result of the 2015 quota allocation, the walleye daily bag limit is four and the yellow perch daily bag limit is 30 per angler in Ohio waters of Lake Erie until April 30, 2015. The daily bag limit will be six walleye from May 1 through Feb. 28, 2016. From March 1 through April 30, 2016, the daily walleye bag limit will be four. A 15-inch

minimum size limit is in effect during the entire season for walleye. The yellow perch daily bag limit is 30 from May 1 through April 30, 2016, with no minimum size limit. Lake Erie anglers can find walleye and yellow perch bag limit information at ODNR offices, in special publications at bait and tackle shops and at wildohio.gov.

Lake Erie walleye and yellow perch fisheries are managed through an interagency quota system that involves Ontario, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York and Ohio jurisdictions. Each jurisdiction regulates their catches to comply with quotas and minimize the risk of over-fishing these species. Quotas for the upcoming fishing season are determined through consensus agreement by these jurisdictions through the Lake Erie Committee of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, which were just recently announced for 2015.

Walleye Ohio walleye anglers in 2015 will catch fish mostly from the 2011, 2010, 2009, 2007 and 2003 hatches, with some fish from the 2008 and 2012 year

classes. Walleye from the moderate 2010 hatch will range from 18 to 23 inches, while walleye from the 2007 hatch will be more than 20 inches. The 2003 and 2007 hatches are likely to carry most of the Central Basin fisheries.

These walleye will contribute to the population that has a good number of fish over the 26-inch range. Large walleye from the strong hatch in 2003 will continue to provide “Fish Ohio” opportunities (greater than 28 inches), with this year class nearing the size that may give Ohio a new state record walleye.

Yellow Perch Expect good perch fishing in 2015, with the largest fish in the eastern areas of the Central Basin. Perch anglers should encounter fish ranging from 7 to 13 inches from the 2012 through 2007 hatches in this year’s fishery, with major contributions from the 2012, 2010, and 2008 year classes. Fish from the average-to-better hatch in 2007 will contribute fish in the greater than 10-inch range.

Black Bass Smallmouth bass fishing in 2015 is expected to be fair but improving.

Smallmouth bass catch rates increased in 2014 compared to 2013 and were the highest observed since the mid-1990s.

May 2015

Smallmouth bass caught should be excellent size (14 to 22 inches, weighing up to 6 pounds). The best fishing for smallmouth bass will continue to occur in areas with good bottom structure, which is the available habitat across much of the entire Ohio nearshore area and islands areas. Continuing the trend from previous years, largemouth bass fishing should be excellent in 2015. This emerging fishery is producing high catch rates and some large fish in nearshore areas and harbors across Ohio’s Lake Erie. All black bass (smallmouth and largemouth) must be immediately released from May 1 through June 26, 2015. Beginning June 27, 2015, the daily bag limit for bass will be five, with a 14-inch minimum length limit.

Steelhead Steelhead anglers should enjoy another year of great fishing in 2015 in Ohio’s Lake Erie open waters and in tributaries. Peak summer steelhead action on Lake Erie can be found offshore from June through August between Vermilion and Conneaut, with catches measuring 17 to 29 inches. Most Lake Erie anglers troll for steelhead in deep waters using spoons with divers or downriggers until fish move close to Turn To Lake Erie Page 13

May 2015

Lake Erie From Page 12

shore in the fall. The daily bag limit remains at five fish per angler from May 16 through Aug. 31, 2015, and two fish per angler between Sept. 1, 2015, and May 15, 2016. A 12-inch minimum size limit is in effect throughout the year.

White Bass White bass continue to provide excellent seasonal fishing opportunities in the Maumee and Sandusky rivers and in the open lake. The 2015 catch will be dominated by fish from the 2012, 2011 and 2010 year classes. Fish from 2007 could be as large as 16 inches. Anglers should focus on major Western Basin tributaries during May and June and nearshore areas of the open lake during the summer. There is no white bass daily bag limit or size limit.

Other Species Bays, harbors and main lake shorelines offer excellent fishing for panfish, as well as occasional northern pike and muskellunge in vegetated areas.

Anglers are reminded that fishing conditions on Lake Erie can change hourly, and adjustments are often necessary to improve success. Anglers should take into account factors such as water temperature, cloud cover, water clarity, boat

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

13

traffic, wave action, structure, currents and the amount of baitfish in the area.

Anglers are also reminded to carefully monitor Lake Erie weather and to seek safe harbor before storms approach.

Updated Lake Erie fishing reports are available at wildohio.gov or by calling 888-HOOKFISH (888-466-5347). Information is available from ODNR Division of Wildlife staff from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays at the Fairport Harbor station (440-352-4199) for the Central Basin and at the Sandusky station (419625-8062) for the Western Basin.

Information on the ODNR Division of Wildlife’s Lake Erie research and management programs, fisheries resources, fishing reports, and maps and links to other Lake Erie web resources are available at wildohio.gov.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOORS

Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Larry Claypool

Ohio walleye anglers in 2015 will catch fish mostly from the 2011, 2010, 2009, 2007 and 2003 hatches.

Shown is outdoor writer Steve Sorensen with a nice Lake Erie walleye.

14

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Fly Fishing Clinic at Cass Scenic Railroad May 29-31

CASS, WV — An introduction to fly fishing, equipment and materials used in fly tying and common knots used in fly fishing is the weekend focus at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park May 29-31.

“Most importantly, there is stream fishing for trout as part of the experience,” said Monica Fleming, activities coordinator at Cass.

The workshop/fly fishing excursion is limited to 12 participants, includes all equipment and materials needed to tie four different fly types, discussion on terms and short introduction to steam entomology, an afternoon of fishing in the area of Spruce and the Shaver’s Fork of the Cheat River and two boxed lunches.

Instructors are Biff Healy, Jeffery Steltzer, Alan Stansbury and James Rainey (certified FFF fly casting instructor). Participants must have a West Virginia fishing license with trout and national forest stamps. Advance reservations are required. The clinic cost is $260, which covers the fly-tying equipment and written materials, instruction and train ride to remote a fishing stream

or $200 if you bring your own tying equipment. Two-story company house rentals are available for overnight rental and are not included in the workshop fee.

For more information about or to register for Fly Fishing Weekend at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, call 304456-4300 or email cassrailroad@wv.gov.

About the Instructors C. Biff Healy An avid fly fisherman, fly tier and rod builder, Biff has pursued trout for more than 40 years and is an instructor of the art and a member of Trout Unlimited, Cumberland Valley Chapter. Healy is a graduate of West Virginia University and Butler County Community College. He worked as a seasonal naturalist at Holly River State Park after his retirement as a law enforcement office from Pennsylvania.

Jim Rainey In his “second career,” Jim Rainey has been executive director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) and executive director of the

International Federation of Fly Fishers (IFFF). He is an IFFF Certified Fly Casting Instructor. Jim is a 33-year member of Trout Unlimited (TU) and has served on the boards of three TU chapters. Jim is a 25-year retired army veteran who spent the past 20 years working in the nonprofit world as a fundraiser and association executive.

Jeff Steltzer Retired after 40 years of steel-making, coal mining and benefaction, Steltzer has 50+ years of fly fishing experience.

He’s a small stream specialist and master of the bow and arrow cast. Jeff is a graduate of Colgate University.

Alan Stansbury Stansbury started fly tying and fishing in elementary school in Pennsylvania and grew up learning to fish the streams of the Cumberland Valley. Fly fishing, fly tying and rod making has been his lifelong passion grade school. He was active in the Forbes Trail TU Chapter and was on the board of directors of the Cumberland Valley Trout Unlimited from 2006 to 2009 including serving as chapter vice president. Stansbury has been the coordinator of the CVTU winter fly tying course since 2008. He enjoys fishing primarily in central and western Pennsylvania and has also

May 2015

Ohio Valley Outdoors - Photo by Larry Claypool

Workshop includes all equipment and materials needed to tie four different fly types.

fished in Maine and various locations in Montana and Wyoming. A toolmaker and engineer by education, Alan held various positions with Comsat, United Technologies, E.I. DuPont and Framatome and most recently worked in the factory automation industry. Alan resides in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

May 2015

Ticks in Ohio

COLUMBUS, OH — American dog ticks, blacklegged ticks, and lone star ticks can all pose a threat to outdoorsmen and women during much of the year in the region.

Unlike pets and humans, wild animals such as deer are not affected by the blacklegged tick and suffer no ill effects from Lyme disease. Additionally, Lyme disease cannot be transmitted by the consumption of venison.

Hunters should keep in mind, however, that hunting and dressing deer may bring them into close contact with infected ticks.

Take the time to learn about Ohio’s tick species and how to protect yourself. You may be able to identify a tick you found using the diagram below. If you believe the tick is a lone star or blacklegged tick, or if you are unable to identify the tick, you may send the tick to your local health department for identification.

To have the tick identified, it should be saved in a hard container such as a pill bottle or film canister. Place a few blades of grass in the container with the tick. Containers should be mailed as soon as possible. If needed, the ticks may be safely refrigerated for several

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

days until mailed. Be sure to include the following contact information: name, address and phone number; date tick was collected; Ohio county where it was collected, and indicate whether or not the tick was attached to a person or animal.

Tick Bite Prevention A few simple measures can decrease your chances of being bitten by a harmful tick while out in the field: • Know when and where to expect ticks.

(Blacklegged ticks are found in the woods; dog ticks are in grassy areas and road edges.)

• Use repellents according to labels.

• Tuck your pants into your socks and boots and tuck your shirt into your pants.

• Check yourself, family, and pets regularly and remove ticks immediately.

• Use anti-tick products on pets.

• Ask your veterinarian about Lyme vaccines for pets where blacklegged ticks are found.

• Create a tick-safe zone in your yard.

To use tick repellent properly follow these steps: 1. First, purchase an insect repellent containing permethrin.

2. Apply the permethrin to your pants and boots and allow them to dry.

3. When heading to the field, tuck your pants into your boots to prevent tick access to your skin.

Once the permethrin is dry, it has no odor and leaves no stain. The repellent should remain effective throughout the hunting season, even with exposure to moisture or hot-water washing.

15

Ohio Valley Outdoors - Graph courtesy of ODNR

Tick Removal If you are bitten by a tick, do not panic.

Carefully remove the tick, including its mouth parts, from your skin using tweezers . Monitor your health the following days. While the CDC recognizes a 36-48 hr. window is needed for disease transmission, there is evidence that transmission can occur sooner.

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

16

Lillian May 1st turkey, 20 lbs., 9-1/2" beard Mahoning County, OH

Brandon Cerritelli 22-1/2 lbs., 9-1/2" beard Mahoning County, OH

Joe Ludovici & Gus Weekley both 19 lbs., jakes Hancock County, WV

May 2015

Chase Stradwick, age 14; 23lb 10" beard Brayden Gibboney, age 8; 5" beard Guersney County, OH

Mike Ludovici 6x6 elk Craig, CO

Send Us Your Photos

Terry Dear 1st turkey, jake Jefferson County, OH

Keith Cummings 24.5 lbs., 1-1/4 " spurs, 10-1/4" beard Mahoning County, OH

Will Grodhaus 20 lbs., 9" beard, 1" spurs Columbiana County, OH

We’ll print your hunting, fishing or trapping photos in the next issue of OV Times or Ohio Valley Outdoors magazine. Send photos via mail, email or Facebook.

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

May 2015

Ralph Valentino 9"-beard, 3/4"-spurs, 19.5lbs Columbiana County, OH

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Larry Zarlengo 22lb., 10" beard, 7/8" spurs OH

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Cody Flynt 1st turkey, crossbow Delaware County, OH

David Stock Sr. 15 lbs., jake, 4" beard, button spurs Columbiana County, OH

Tim Baker spring gobbler Mathews bow

Dave Weekley Private Pond, WV

Kendon Alexander Brooke County, WV

Ian McIntosh, age 17 crossbow Harrison County, OH

Justin Masters 42", 50+lbs.

Wellsville, OH

Mike Stevenson 6.8lbd., 26 1/4" walleye Ohio River

Conner Hedrick 16-lbs., turkey Columbiana County, OH

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

18

www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com

Ohio Valley Outdoors

Angler From Page 9

work toward qualifying for the national tournament, which most recently was won by South Carolina.

Emmerling said the league offers more than fishing to the anglers. “I think it helps the kids in a variety of ways. We just don’t show up and go fishing. They have to do a mandatory three hours of classroom time before they’re allowed in the boat. We cover areas such as bass biology, environmental concerns, and of course, above all, safety,” said Emmerling. “We also made them organize into

May 2015

a club. The student anglers make all the rules, and bylaws. I also think it allows a lot of students who enjoy the outdoors more than traditional sports a chance to represent their school and be involved in a group of like-minded students.”

Emmerling said many local volunteers and businesses have helped build the Student Angler League. The local bass clubs have offered their assistance, and even bass fishing boats, which are obviously a key component for the anglers.

“Wayne Wells of Wayne Wells Flooring is my tournament partner, he’s been at every meeting and every event. He’s

Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Larry Claypool

been an important part of getting this started. Also Dave Jenna and Danny Gentile have donated a lot of time to the kids. They’ve brought bait and donated items to the league,” said Emmerling.

“Also Chuck Smith of Smith and Thompson Tree Service allowed us to use his lake for our first event, and his wife and daughter put out food and made it a great experience for the kids.

Pat George of Floors by George has donated equipment; Mark Emmerling allows us to use his boat, and some other area tournament anglers have helped; Mark Wilkinson, Chris Joseph, Dick Thayer and others.”

The UOV’s second event was held May 10 at Highlandtown Lake in Columbiana County. Results were not available before presstime.

For information about the Upper Ohio Valley (UOV) Student Angler League, contact Harry Emmerling at: harry16520@hotmail.com.

Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Larry Claypool

East Liverpool’s Stephanie Emmerling poses with two of her bass caught during the UOV Student Angler League opener on Bibbee’s Lake.

May 2015

OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES

Ohio Wildlife Council Receives Latest Proposals

COLUMBUS, OH — A reduction in bag limits and antlerless permit use, as well as a shift in the youth season during the 2015-2016 hunting seasons, were among regulations proposed to the Ohio Wildlife Council at its regularly scheduled meeting on February 11, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

Among the proposals: • Reduce bag limits in the majority of counties, and remove antlerless permits in all but 10 counties. No county has a proposed bag limit increase.

• Reduce the statewide bag limit of deer from nine to six.

• Suspend the antlerless-only muzzleloader weekend.

• Offer two days of deer-gun hunting Dec. 26-27, 2015.

• Move youth-gun hunting to the Saturday and Sunday formerly occupied by the antlerless-only muzzleloader weekend.

• Add one straight-walled cartridge rifle, the .450 Marlin, to the existing list of legal hunting rifles during the deergun and youth deer-gun seasons.

Deer regulations have been trending

toward reduced bag limits and restricted use of antlerless permits in recent years.

Proposals to reduce bag limits and adjust hunting seasons work to stabilize deer populations.

Deer population goals will be revised this summer through a random survey of hunters and landowners. Participants in the survey will have the opportunity to provide input about the future of deer management in Ohio.

Overview of proposed hunting seasons for 2015-2016: • Deer archery: Sept. 26, 2015-Feb. 7, 2016 • Youth deer gun: Oct. 10-11, 2015 • Deer gun: Nov. 30-Dec. 6, 2015; Dec. 26-27, 2015 • Deer muzzleloader: Jan. 2-5, 2016 Proposed county bag limits: No more than two either-sex deer permits: Athens, Auglaize, Belmont, Butler, Carroll, Champaign, Clark, Clinton, Coshocton, Darke, Erie, Fairfield, Fayette, Gallia, Geauga, Greene, Guernsey, Hancock, Harrison, Hocking, Jackson, Jefferson, Lawrence, Madison, Meigs, Mercer, Miami, Monroe, Montgomery, Morgan, Morrow, Muskingum,

Noble, Ottawa, Perry, Pickaway, Preble, Sandusky, Shelby, Tuscarawas, Van Wert, Vinton, Warren, Washington and Wood.

It was proposed that antlerless permits are not valid in these counties.

No more than three either-sex deer permits: Adams, Allen, Ashland, Ashtabula, Brown, Clermont, Columbiana, Crawford, Defiance, Fulton, Hardin, Henry, Highland, Holmes, Huron, Knox, Licking, Logan, Mahoning, Marion, Medina, Paulding, Pike, Putnam, Richland, Ross, Scioto, Seneca, Trumbull, Union, Wayne, Williams and Wyandot. It was proposed that antlerless permits are not valid in these counties.

No more than three either-sex permits, or two either-sex permits and one antlerless permit: Lake, Lorain, Portage and Stark.

No more than four either-sex permits, or three either-sex permits and one antlerless permit: Cuyahoga, Delaware, Franklin, Hamilton, Lucas and Summit.

The statewide bag limit was proposed to be six deer, a reduction from the statewide limit of nine deer last season.

Only one deer may be antlered, and a hunter cannot exceed a county bag limit.

Antlerless permits may be used from Sept. 26 through Nov. 29, 2015.

It was proposed that small game hunt-

19 ing seasons will continue during the second gun weekend, Dec. 26-27, 2015.

Also on Wednesday, the ringed-neck pheasant and chukar hunting seasons were proposed to be extended one week to Jan. 10, 2016.

The Ohio Wildlife Council will vote on all the proposals after receiving public input during open houses, held the first week of this month. Open houses will be held at the ODNR Division of Wildlife District One, District Two, District Three and District Four offices and the Greene County Fish and Game Association clubhouse in Xenia. Directions to the open houses can be found at wildohio.gov or by calling 800-WILDLIFE (945-3543).

A statewide hearing on all of the proposed rules will be held at the ODNR Division of Wildlife’s District One office on March 19, at 9 a.m. The office is located at 1500 Dublin Road, Columbus, Ohio 43215.

The Ohio Wildlife Council is an eightmember board that approves all of the ODNR Division of Wildlife proposed rules and regulations. The council will vote on the proposed rules and season dates during its meeting on April 8, after considering public input.

Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.

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