OWNING A SUPPRESSOR 101 - P.14
Nymph Fishing for Trout Story inside page 6
Carroll Black: A Trapping Legend
OV Outdoor Times
I was saddened awhile back to learn of Carroll “Blackie” Black’s passing on March 23, 2015, at the age of 74. If there was ever a wellknown, respected By Ralph Scherder trapper whose Hunting Editor work influenced and inspired me to push harder on the trapline, it was Blackie. Blackie’s book, You Can Make Record Coon Catches, was a mainstay on my nightstand when I was a teenager. Every night I’d flip through that book, reading paragraphs here and there before falling asleep. My dreams were often filled with adventures of river traplines and huge catches of fur. One time I dreamed that Blackie and I had partnered up for a river trapline and we piled so many raccoons into our boat that we actually swamped it! Alas, it was just a dream, but a good one at that. Although I never met Blackie, I recently had the opportunity to talk to
Outdoor Times
Joanne, his wife of 34 years. From early on in their relationship, Joanne accompanied Blackie on the trapline. “When we got married in 1980, I didn’t know boo about trapping,” she said. “The first time I went with him, I watched him make a fox set. When he was done he moved down the field edge to make another one. I said I’d just wait there for him. As I was waiting, I had to relieve myself, so I just squatted down and did it right there by his set. He looked up and saw me and you’d think the world was coming to an end. He started shouting, ‘No, no, no!’ because he thought I’d ruined the set. Well, the next day there was a red fox jumping around in that trap! “After that peeing incident, he really didn’t put as much credence in the fact that everything must be meticulous to catch a fox. He said it wasn’t ‘quite’ as important as people made it out to be.” When they first got married, Joanne and Blackie often talked about what they wanted to do, and one day Joanne suggested that Blackie do something in the trapping industry. Trapping had been his passion since he was a kid growing up in Mount Vernon, PA, where he read and accumulated stacks of Fur-Fish-Game magazines. “He had so much experience trapping all over the country, I thought it Turn To Blackie Page 5
Ohio Valley
FR EE!
June 2015
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo courtesy of Joanne Black
Carroll “Blackie” Black, of Nashville, OH, made trapping and scent making a thriving business for his family and the trapping community for 30 years. Blackie died earlier this year after battling cancer. His wife, Joanne, talks about his journey and passion for trapping.
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
INSIDE THIS MONTH
4 Hunter & Trapper
14 Owning a
ODNR
6 Nymph Fishing Education in Ohio
7
Travis R. Hunt
18 Fish Structures Suppressor 101
Jeff Knapp
for Trout
19 Big Bite at Berlin
Added by ODNR
Five Ways to Save on Boating Budget
WMT
Boat US
8 When Getting Grey D. Berrier II
13 Youth Anglers
Skunked is No Option Larry Claypool
Complete Season
10 Ruger Chambering for Model 77/17 OUTDOOR CALENDAR
Free Fishing Clinic - June 20 (9:30 a.m.- 2 p.m.) at Eagle Creek Conservation Club (boys and girls ages 4 to 15. Must pre-register by June 19. Club located at: 5525 Eagle Creek Road, Leavittsburg, Ohio, 44430. Call 330-638-7222, email at info@eaglecreekconservationclub.com. Catfish Tournaments at Hubbard Conservation Club - June 27; July 11, 25; Aug. 8, 22 (5:3011:30 p.m.) $9 entry, 30% payout for 1st, 20% for 2nd. $4 for side pot, largest fish. Club located at: 1760 Wick-Campbell Road, Hubbard, OH 44425. For info. call Brian Radcliff at 330-610-5802. Ohio River Catfish Tournaments - June 27, July 18, Aug. 8 at Chester City Park marina, Chester, WV 26034. Sponsored by Chester-Newell Sportsmen Club. Entry $10 per fisherman. Begins 7 p.m. Saturday, ends 7 a.m. Sunday. Boundaries Pittsburgh, PA to Wheeling, WV. Contact Chaney’s Service Station in Chester at 304-387-3982. 3-D Archery Shoots - 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 330-978-3253 or 330716-3964.
Ohio Valley
Most professions ping ended up helping, at least, one young have a handful of pioPA trapper in Scherder. neers, mentors and foreBlackie was well-known for his scent fathers who pave the making skills and other products he proway in their industry. vided through his business, Blackie’s Blend Those who made it lure business. It was based out of Nashville, great, made improveOhio (Holmes County). ments, invented better In the trapping profession over the past methods. Some even three decades, Carroll “Blackie” Black’s recorded their path, their name is be mentioned — and respected — By Larry Claypool methods and shared as “one of the best” in the industry. Thank Editor them with articles and you Blackie! You will be missed. Your even books on their subject. legacy lives on. Those archives and printed materials are As mentioned in Scherder’s article, fellow only part of the assistance Carroll “Blackie” trapper Scott Welch purchased Blackie’s Black offered the trapping community over Blend to keep that tradition going. Contact the past 30+ years. Blackie, as most new him Welch by phone at: 330-378-3708 or on the as, would help anyone who asked, as we web: www.blackiesblend.com. read about this legend on our cover story on Page 1. Praise is High for New Blackie died earlier this year, Ruger 77/17 at the age of 74, after battling OVO writer and firearms cancer. Veteran Pennsylvania reviewer Bill Waugaman mantrapper and award-winning aged to pull off an impressive outdoor writer Ralph Scherder coup by getting one of the first penned a great article about Ruger Model 77/17’s to reBlackie — telling the story view. Waugaman presents that from Blackie’s wife’s perspecreview in this issue, beginning tive. Joanne Black offers some on Page 10. With his handy great insight on Blackie’s life connections and persistence and dedication to the sport of Waugaman was able to secure trapping. Mrs. Black recogthe new Ruger rifle and be one nized early in their marriage of the first writers/reviewers to that her husband was very test the 77/17. Ohio Valley Outdoors– knowledgeable about trapping Blackie’s book, ‘You Can Waugaman had this to say and it was her idea to make a about the 77/17 in .17WSM, Make Record Coon business out of the sport. And Catches!’, was considered “The accuracy and consistency together they made it work and a trapper’s ‘standard’ on of the Ruger 77/17 in .17WSM managed to make a living from with a 20-grain bullet was very information available trapping. respectable. This rifle shot as about running a trapline. As I mentioned, Blackie also good or better than many cenwrote a book about trapping terfire rifles at 100 yards.” and running a trapline. It was Look for a video review titled, “You Can Make Record Coon of the Ruger 77/17 in the near future on our Catches!” (see cover photo of the book on website: www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com. this page). His passion, and efforts, in trap-
To Advertise CALL 330-385-2243 Publisher/Editor, Larry Claypool lclaypool@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
Outdoor Times June 2015
Thank you Blackie!
June 2015
OV Outdoor Times
2
Graphics Designer, Linda McKenzie lmckenzie@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
VOL. 7, NO. 06
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
Ohio Valley Outdoor Times is all about its readers. We’d love to hear from you. Send us something at ohvod@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
June 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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4 Hunter & Trapper Education in Ohio COLUMBUS, OH — Our hunter and trapper education programs area designed for every age and ability, and is run by some of Ohio’s best and most knowledgeable hunters and trappers. They’ll help you understand where, and when, it’s legal to go for the game you want. While hunter education is a vital part of becoming an Ohio hunter, new hunters also have the option of hunting with an apprentice hunting license before taking a hunter education course. To find a Bowhunter Education Course contact Doug Baxter, Ohio Bowhunter’s Association, Bowhunter Education Chairman at deermagnet1@yahoo.com or (740)-637-1681. Hunter Education Courses The Division of Wildlife offers three types of hunter certification courses: Instructor-Led Course Instructor-led courses last about 8-12 hours, and take place in a classroom environment. Certified volunteers and Division of Wildlife staff teach the courses. They are specially trained and highly
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
qualified to help you learn. Though it varies by instructor and location, most classes take place over two days. Study materials will be provided in the class, but you will need to bring a pencil or pen and a highlighter. Your instructor will cover a range of topics, from conservation, safety, and ethics to the proper handling of shotguns, handguns, bowhunting gear, and more. You should not bring firearms or archery equipment to class - all necessary equipment will be provided. Once you’ve completed the course work, you will be given a 100-question test which includes a mix of multiple choice, matching, and true/false questions. A student must score 80% or higher on the test to pass and obtain certification. Home-Study Course If you prefer to work at your own pace, Ohio also offers a home-study version of hunter education. We recommend tackling one chapter at a time, and answering all review questions on the provided answer sheet. Each completed answer sheet will be required for a final classroom session prior to finishing the course. The final completion session usually lasts 3 to 4 hours, and will be led by a
June 2015
Ohio Valley Outdoors -Photo by Linda McKenzie
OVO Pro staffer Denny Fetty tapes an instructional video on gun safety for the OVO website. Fetty is one of several volunteer hunter education instructors for Ohio ODNR.
Division of Wildlife employee or certified instructor volunteer. It will include firearm safety training and other topics. Each home study chapter review quiz must be presented at the completion session. Completion sessions include the same 100-question final certification test
as the instructor-led course. Be sure to bring a pen or pencil so you can take the test. Find information about a Hunter Education Course at: www.wildlife.ohio.dnr.gov.
June 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
of books from trapping to self help and Blackie From Page 1 would be a fit,” said Joanne. “I told him knowledgeable on almost any subject. that and he said, ‘I think I could do that.’” “Some people might have taken it the And so the Blackie’s Blend lure busi- wrong way,” said Joanne, “but he liked ness was created, based out of one of the to share his knowledge with everyone he small buildings in their backyard near met. He was never bragging.” At heart, Blackie was a trapper. AlNashville, OH. Blackie worked hard at though he was best known as a raccoon developing new scents and sending them trapper, his favorite animal to trap was out to well-known trappers for field testing. For over 30 years they put in their mink. He loved the river because he said due diligence and travelled the country it was so peaceful and quiet, and he loved to attend as many trapping conventions his country. “Everywhere we went he would say ‘Look at the sky’ or ‘Look at as possible to promote the brand. “We started from nothing,” said those mountains.’ He always said that Joanne. “I worked with him in the busi- we don’t appreciate life and all of its ness and we built it together. It was hard beauty the way we should. Although we work, but it became very successful and did a lot of traveling, we didn’t stop at as many places as we’d have liked because kept food on the table for 34 years.” Many trapping lures contain secret in- we were always going to conventions gredients; however, one ingredient that and when they were over we had to get cannot be hidden is skunk essence. home. It was fun but a lot of work.” As they got older, Blackie and Joanne Joanne said that when Blackie was workknew that eventually they’d have to give ing with skunk essence he knew better up the lure business. than to come into the They agreed to keep house. He had to take the two pickup trucks Blackie was his clothes off before coming inside and head diagnosed with cancer in they had at the time, a Toyota Tacoma and a straight to the shower. June of 2014. Chevy Colorado, so She wouldn’t even they wouldn’t have touch his clothes until anymore vehicle payseveral days later. ments to worry about later on. “One of his lures, Magnum, is loaded Blackie was diagnosed with cancer in with skunk essence,” she said. “It’s a paste-type lure, which makes it more re- June 2014, and by January they knew he sistant to weather and last longer. wasn’t going to make it. They sold the Blackie used to demonstrate it to every- business to fellow lure maker Scott body by turning the lure upside down to Welch, who will continue to market the show that it wouldn’t spill out. Well, at Blackie’s Blend brand. “Not long after one convention we were set up outside that,” said Joanne, “he was sitting in his and it was so hot that the sun loosened up chair one day and said we were going the paste in the bottle. When he turned it shopping for a brand new Colorado over to show some guys, it dropped right pickup.” Joanne reminded him of their agreeout onto his foot! Everyone had a good ment to hold on to their older pickups so laugh at Blackie’s expense.” Blackie was a very driven man. That they wouldn’t have payments, to which drive to succeed could very well have Blackie replied, “I know, but I want you been ignited the day he found out he was to have a new vehicle so you don’t have adopted. He’d just graduated from high to worry about it breaking down when school and needed a copy of his birth cer- I’m gone.” “He always took great care of me,” tificate so he could join the Marines. said Joanne. “The past few months have Upon visiting the courthouse and not been difficult for this old lady. My life finding any records, he asked the clerk for help. The clerk then told him who his does not exist as it once did. Not only is real parents were and where to find his Blackie gone, but the business is gone, too. Those two were my life and now I birth certificate. “He said he always felt like a second have neither one of them. It’s been an class citizen,” said Joanne, “and I think adjustment for me.” Next time I pull Blackie’s book off of that’s why, because he was adopted and my shelf, I’ll have a greater appreciation because of the way he found out. That for all that he accomplished as a trapper put a lot of drive in him. Whatever he did, he did it the way it should be done. and a businessman. Years of experience He felt like he had to prove to himself went into all of his works. He set out to and to others that he could be good at be known and recognized in the trapping something, especially the last few years.” industry. He accomplished that and a Blackie was an avid reader of all types whole lot more.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Nymph Fishing for Trout OV Outdoor Times
When nymph fishing for trout, small adjustments — ones designed to present flies in slightly different currents — can often translate into big results. The basics of nymph fishing call By Jeff Knapp for a fly (or multiple Fishing Editor flies) to presented in an upstream direction. Nymphs, often weighted with bead heads, lead (or leadfree) wire wraps, split shot added to the leader, or a combination of all of these, get the flies down to where the fish are. In the cold water of early spring targeted areas are typically deeper, quieter areas where trout can position themselves to intercept natural nymphs and larvae without bucking heavy current, often taking advantage of the calm spots provided by submerged rocks, ledges and other forms of cover. By this time of year areas of faster current — where oxygenated water is present and bug life
most common — tend to be the most productive. Within these basics are many details that can make all the difference in terms of fish action — such as: • Fish the close water first, even if it doesn’t look all that appealing. It’s easy to spook fish by initially targeting what in your mind is the sweet spot of a run. Be patient. • Your short game is often your best game. Don’t try to drift too large an area. Limit your “span” to about a 90 degree arc, one started with a cast quartering 45 degrees upstream. • To cover new water it’s often best to reposition yourself, rather than adding distance to your casts. There is often a sweet spot within a run — in terms of not only fish location but yours as well. Gradually working the water, varying your casting position in a thorough, wellplanned manner, ups your chances of finding the magic combination. • A strike indicator not only ups your odds of detecting a trout’s strike, it is Turn To Open Season Page 7
also representative of how your flies are moving in relation to the current. Comparing the speed of surface bubbles to that of the indicator’s drift tells you what adjustments you need to make (such as a line mend) to keep your offerings drifting at the correct pace. Remember too that bottom currents are often slower than surface currents. An indicator that is lagging a bit is not necessarily a bad thing. • Trout location is often based on current, so be sure to experiment by thoroughly fishing all of the current seams within the run you are working. From the angler’s vantage point we may pick out seams that scream to us as being indicative of the where the fish should be. And we are often correct. But certainly not always. Let the trout tell you were the perfect spot(s) is within a run by covering all of it all. It’s not wrong to have preconceptions; just don’t let these notions keep you from fishing all the water, an effort that often leads to a pleasing outcome. • Don’t overlook spots that seem devoid of enough current to hold trout, particularly if the spot has other positive characteristics such as depth. During a recent trip to a west-central Pennsylvania stream my friend Luke Ruddock took
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June 2015
Ohio Valley Outdoors–Photo by Jeff Knapp
Luke Ruddock displays a nice rainbow trout taken from a slow pool during a late May outing.
several nice trout on nymphs from the lower end of a pool, an area with little Turn To Nymph Page 7
June 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Five Ways to Save On Your Family’s
Boating Budget
ALEXANDRIA, VA — Contrary to the myth, recreational boating is a solid middle-class lifestyle. About three in four boat-owning households earn less than $100,000 combined income each year, so saving money for boating families is important. That’s why informed boaters join Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) for the exclusive discounts at marinas, marine service facilities and other boating related businesses such as tackle shops and guide services. All can be found at www.BoatUS.com/map. Here’s a few way you can save: • Marina fuel discounts: BoatUS members can get up to 10 cents off per gallon of fuel at over 360 BoatUS Cooperating Marinas. • An overnight slip for the summer vacation: Over 600 BoatUS Cooperating Marinas offer up to a 25% discount on transient slip fees - essentially four nights for the price of three.
• Boat repair discounts: Save more at 300 BoatUS Cooperating Marinas offering up to 15% off repairs. • Angler discounts: Go charter fishing or explore new fishing grounds with the help of a local guide, with discounts up to 15%. Bait and tackle shops offer up to 10% off. • The greatest rewards at West Marine: BoatUS members get a $10 reward certificate for every $250 they spend - the highest reward level for any shopper. Annual BoatUS membership is just $24. For membership information and additional savings, go to BoatUS.com/savings or call 1-800-3952628 About Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS): BoatUS is the nation’s largest organization of recreational boaters with over a half million members. We are the boat owners’ voice on Capitol Hill and fight for their rights. We help ensure a road-
How to Contact US
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
• E-mail: lclaypool@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com • Write: “Dear OVTimes” at Ohio Valley Outdoor Times: 210 E. 4th Street, East Liverpool, Ohio 43920 • Please include your full name, address and phone number. Letters may be edited for clarity and space.
ADVERTISING
• E-mail: advertising@ohiovalleyoutdoors.com • Phone: 330-385-2243 • Fax: 330-385-7114 • Write: advertising at Ohio Valley Outdoor Times: 210 E. 4th Street, East Liverpool, Ohio 43920
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JOIN OVO ON
Ohio Valley Outdoors Magazine Nymph From Page 6
current but significant depth. While that stretch fell into the category many fly anglers might classify a “frog water,” RudOhio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of Boat US dock took several nice rainbows and browns from it. Drifting a nymph is an There are several way to save money for boaters, including fuel discounts at marinas. efficient way of fly fishing, so it makes BoatUS members can get up to 10 cents sense to cover all possible areas. It can off per gallon of fuel. pay off with bonus fish.
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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When Getting Skunked is Not an Option OV Outdoor Times
Summer brings vacation time, long weekends, and opportunities to travel. For outdoorsmen and women, this frequently results in (Ret.)Grey D. Berrier II fishing new waters By Col. FIN Pro Staff for the first time. Do you have an angling strategy for working a new body of water? Maybe you have a few proven old-favorite lures that you like to probe previously unexplored waters with. Possibly you’ve found talking to the folks in the next campsite or visiting the local bait shop to find out what the fish have been biting is the best course of action. This is all solid advice to put you into the fish, but what if you absolutely have to catch fish on your inaugural outing on unfamiliar water? What will be your “go to” method to ensure the highest possible percentages are in your favor when it comes to catching fish that first time out? Let me paint the picture and then offer my preferred means of solving the puzzle.
Your vacation plans have you rolling into a beautifully wooded public campground overlooking an expansive reservoir known for its good fishing. You have the next day set aside for just being out on the water. However, you’re not going to be alone in the boat. You’re going to be accompanied by an adult who has never fished before (could be your spouse, buddy, relative, or coworker – you fill in the blank) and a youngster (possibly your child, grandchild, niece/nephew, or your friend’s child – again your choice). They are counting on you to teach them to fish, want you to help them catch some fish, and the objective is to have a safe day on the water while everyone has a good time. Being on the water at first light is not an option since your two fishing companions declined such an early rise and your family members strongly objected to you getting up and waking them at what they deemed was an ungodly hour. This means your first venture out on the reservoir will most likely be between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. when you’ll have to contend with some boat
June 2015
Ohio Valley Outdoors–File photo by Larry Claypool
Find a nearby bait shop to obtain fathead minnows, emerald shiners, or possibly another minnow variety the locals prefer to catch more fish.
and personal watercraft traffic. Sound like a difficult scenario — something that might tax your amateur guiding prowess and challenge your reputation as a competent fisherman or woman? Experienced anglers have been encountering these circumstances for generations and they represent prime op-
portunities to get new adults and youngsters involved and excited about our great sport of fishing. Start by accepting some basic parameters. With limited or no casting experience, your two fishing companions are not ready for a day tossing jigs, spinners, crankbaits, Turn To Skunked Page 9
June 2015
Skunked From Page 8
spoons, or other artificial lures. Simplify things by making it a bait and bobber outing for you and your two eager guests. Learning how to lob bait and terminal tackle towards prominent structure with a spinning, spincasting, or baitcasting outfit will be doable, even for complete novices. If you were given the heads-up that fresh fish is on the evening’s menu for campground cuisine, then that clearly ups the ante for your fishing party. When I absolutely have to catch fish on a midday summer outing, my “go to” bait of choice is a live minnow. Find a nearby bait shop to obtain fathead minnows, emerald shiners, or possibly another minnow variety the locals prefer. Remember water temperature and dissolved oxygen content are critical for keeping baitfish alive and active. Think ahead about having a means to control the water temperature and provide aeration. I like 1 1/2” – 2” fathead minnows for their durability in the minnow bucket and on the hook. Small fatheads will regularly attract crappies, smallmouths, largemouths, rock bass, white bass, and perch; while occasionally drawing in walleye, striped bass, northern pike,
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
trout, or channel catfish on some waters. Terminal tackle can be kept simple with a size 6 or 8 long shank hook, a single splitshot placed 8” above the hook to hold the minnow down in the water column, and a bobber/float attached 18” to six feet above the minnow depending upon the depth at which you choose to fish at. With literally hundreds of patented floats/bobbers to select from, I prefer Styrofoam models with central plastic pegs that permit quick and easy depth adjustment. I hook my minnows through the back, just ahead of their dorsal fin, but not so deep that it impacts their spine. This hook-up keeps the minnows on the hook, enables them to remain lively with minimal impediment, and facilitates solid hooksets when the bait is taken. After casting out, keep your line relatively straight between the rod and your bobber. When you notice your bobber begins to move, slowly tighten your line. When the bobber completely disappears below the surface, set the hook and enjoy the subsequent battle. Half the fun is eventually seeing what you’ve caught, since your quarry can vary so much when using live minnows. The key to finding fish mid-day dur-
ing the summer will be locating structure and shade. Look for evidence that the water is deeper, such as steep banks. Large rocks, submerged trees, logs, stumps, rip-rap, bridge and dock pilings will all attract and hold a wide variety of game fish species. Casting a minnow on a bobber close to any of this aforementioned structure will frequently bring on the bite in short order. Look for promising spots in small coves or inlets that offer shade away from the main channel where boat traffic will impair your ability to fish. A partially submerged log in 8 to 12 feet of water, back in the shade, may be just the ticket for success and finding that pattern in multiple locations could be the key to a highly productive day on the water for new and experienced anglers alike. It’s always exciting to fish new waterways. If you’re traveling this summer to visit a new lake or reservoir, taking out some first-time anglers, or just getting started in fishing close to home; a live minnow fished on a bobber rig can be just the right answer when it comes to avoiding getting skunked. Giving game fish the option of taking what is already #1 in their natural diet should be part of your “go to” fishing repertoire.
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Three OVO Contributors Honored
SEVEN SPRINGS, PA — Three Ohio Valley Outdoors magazine and OV Times regular contributors recently won top awards at the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers Association (POWA) and Outdoor Writers of Ohio Excellence in Crafts Awards banquets in May. OVO Publisher/Editor Larry Claypool took third place honors in the OWO Best Color Photo category for a photograph titled ‘First Raccoon’. Outdoor writer Steve Sorensen won two categories and was runner-up in three others in the POWA event. OV Times Hunting Editor Ralph Scherder claimed two awards in the POWA event. Sorensen took first Place in the Best Book Award category for Growing Up With Guns and first place, Handloading Promotion Award for Electronic Media; runner-up in three other categories. Scherder was runner-up in the POWA Best Color/Black and White Photo category for his photo titled, “Raccoon in a tree”. His first place honors came in the Pennsylvania Trappers Award category for an article titled, “Quest for a Red Fox”.
June 2015
Product Review
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Sturm Ruger Chambering the Model 77/17 in .17WSM OV Outdoor Times
Media Range Day at the SHOT Show is always full of surprises, and the 2015 show was no different. Sturm Ruger had a prototype of a bolt action rimfire rifle chambered in .17 Winchester Super By Bill Waugaman Magnum on the firing line and it must have generated quite a bit of interest. Four months later, the Ruger 77/17® in .17WSM is now a reality. The quality and craftsmanship synonymous with Ruger firearms is obvious. Picking up and holding this 77/17 for the first time, it had the feel of a quality centerfire rifle. Even when you look at the individual components, the physical attributes and craftsmanship of the
parts are built as if this was a centerfire rifle. Physical Dimensions The Ruger 77/17® in .17WSM has an overall length of 43 1/4” and weighs 7.5 pounds. The length of pull is 13 1/2”. To put this in perspective, this rifle has the same weight and length of pull as the Ruger Hawkeye standard rifle in .30-06 chambering, and the overall length of the 77/17 is only 3/4” longer. Receiver The receiver is the heart and soul of any rifle. All of the other components are connected to it either directly or indirectly. You can have the best barrel or action or stock, but without a top quality receiver to bring it all together, performance will suffer. Ruger’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship is evident in the 3-step
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manufacturing process of the receiver for this rifle made from heat-treated Grade 410 stainless steel. The receiver is initially made as an investment casting, a process that produces parts having
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able line of sight even when a 50mm objective lens scope is mounted. A black spacer is located between the stock and the rubber butt pad, a design that Ruger has used for quite a while. This spacer better anOhio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of Ruger chors the mounting screws and is more stable against the h i g h wood than the soft rubber butt pad when dimensional accuracy and an ex- match sanding the pad. On the Ruger cellent surface finish with no flashing. 77/17 sent for this review, all three Next, the cast receiver is CNC machined pieces fit together seamlessly. to precise specifications. The last step is During the assembly process, extra the final finishing. care is taken to insure proper bedding of Scope mounts for many firearms are the receiver and barrel with the stock. attached with screws into the receiver. It’s this attention to details like this that With the 77/17, they are actually ma- set rifles manufactured by Ruger apart chined into the receiver eliminating the from many others. possibility that the mount can work Barrel loose. Instead of manufacturing a barrel The ejector is incorporated into the de- specifically for the .17WSM, Ruger sign of the receiver. As such, there are chose to chamber the barrel designed for no separate mechanical parts to bend or the centerfire .17 Hornet. Using a barrel break, and it functions perfectly. capable of handling the higher pressure Stock and velocity of the .17 Hornet will be The stock is made from American more than ample to safely handle the Walnut and has a smooth satin finish. .17WSM. From the factory, swivel stud mounts are The barrel is hammer forged from already installed fore and aft. With only Grade 410 stainless steel, which conabout 1 1/2” drop at the heel and a tains chromium. This alloy it a good straight comb, the shooter has a comfortTurn To Sturm Ruger Page 11
June 2015
Sturm Ruger From Page 10
choice for barrels because of its high strength, heat and corrosion resistant. The exterior of the barrel is given a matte stainless finish for additional protection from the elements and to eliminate any glare easily spotted by game animals. The .17WSM barrel on the Ruger 77/17 is 24” long and has a heavy contour, .925” receiver diameter and .66” muzzle diameter. The rifling is 6 grooves with a 1-in-9” twist, the standard twist for this cartridge as outlined by SAAMI. To protect the rifling, Ruger recessed the muzzle and chamfered the bore to protect the crown. The barrel screws into the receiver and head spaced conventionally. Bolt The polished stainless steel bolt is made in two sections. The bolt lugs and handle are part of the back section. The front section is a non-rotating breech block that acts as an extended bolt head pressing up against cartridge securing it in the rifle’s chamber. The 90° rotation of the bolt handle to close serves two purposes. Obviously, it locks the bolt assembly in position. More importantly, the bolt lugs and receiver are machined to exacting toler-
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
ances so that when the bolt lugs cam forward, the forward movement sets the head spacing precisely. As a final step, Ruger etches the receiver’s serial number into the underside of the bolt. The bolt, receiver and barrel are now a matched set. Action The 3-position safety is located at the right rear of the receiver within easy reach using a thumb. In the safe position, the safety pushes a pin forward locking the bolt down from any movement, locks the striker in place and locks the trigger from any movement. Ruger’s commitment to manufacturing a safe firearm is obvious in the design of this safety. The Ruger 77/17 has a flush mounted bolt release at the left rear of the receiver. With the bolt open, pressing down on the bolt release allows the bolt to smoothly slide out. The bolt can be easily slid back into the receiver without the need to hold down the release, a very nice feature. Trigger The 77/17 is equipped with a single stage, non-adjustable trigger. From the factory, the trigger pull on the rifle used for this review consistently measured 6 pounds at the center of the trigger. The
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Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of Ruger
If you watch closely, you will see that the magazine used for the .17 WSM cartridge is a work of engineering genius.
sear has a crisp, clean break with almost no creep. Magazine Like other Ruger rotary magazines, this 6-round magazine incorporates an internal rotor that keeps the cartridges separate. It mounts flush with the stock for a smooth, aesthetically clean appearance. The rotary magazine for the .17WSM cartridge is marked accord-
ingly. If you watch closely, you will see that the magazine used for the .17 WSM cartridge is a work of engineering genius. As the bolt moves forward, the cartridge does not release from the magazine until it clears the retaining ridge on the magazine throat. At this point, the ballistic Turn To Sturm Ruger Page 12
12 Sturm Ruger From Page 11
tip on the bullet is already inside the chamber and the cartridge head slides up onto the bolt face under the hook extractor. Now, the cartridge is aligned to feed nearly straight into the chamber, not at an angle. There are two definite benefits. First, the chance of a cartridge not loading into the chamber when the bolt is pushed forward is nearly eliminated. Second, side of the bullet is the first point of contact in the chamber, you are less likely to distort the bullet tip that could adversely affect accuracy. At the Range For range testing, the Ruger 77/17 was equipped with a Vortex Diamondback HP 3-12x42 scope. The ammunition was Winchester’s .17WSM with the 20-grain polymer tipped bullet. Winchester used a 24” barrel to test their .17WSM cartridge and rated the 20-grain bullet at 3,000 fps. My experience has been that muzzle velocities typically fall short of what the manufacturer states, irrespective of the manufacturer… until now. Fifty rounds were fired through the Ruger 77/17, two test shots to check positioning of the chronograph and then 8 strings of 6 shots.
June 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
The results for the 48 shots: • lowest muzzle velocity… 2,976 fps • highest muzzle velocity… 3,115 fps • average muzzle velocity… 3,060 fps • only 3 readings fell below 3,000 fps; 3 readings were 3,100 fps or more The 24” barrel of the Ruger 77/17 will deliver the velocity performance of the .17WSM cartridge. To check accuracy, 25 3-shot groups were fired at 75 yards initially. • smallest 3-shot group was .3” • largest 3-shot group was 1.2” • average was .8” • 84% of the groups were 1” or less After giving the bore and chamber a good cleaning, the next trip to the range was to check accuracy at 100 yards. As expected, 3-shot groups were slightly larger than the groups at 75 yards. • smallest group was .6” • largest group was 1.4” • average was .9” • 73% of the groups were 1” or less The accuracy and consistency of the Ruger 77/17 in .17WSM with a 20-grain bullet was very respectable. This rifle shot as good or better than many centerfire rifles at 100 yards. Final Thoughts As of this review, Ruger is the fifth manufacturer having a rifle currently
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo by Bill Waugaman
The accuracy and consistency of the Ruger 77/17 in .17WSM with a 20-grain bullet was very respectable. This rifle shot as good or better than many centerfire rifles at 100 yards.
available chambered in .17WSM, and only the second in a bolt action. With an MSRP of $999, the price point for this rifle falls between Savage rifles and the ones from Winchester, Franklin Armory and Volquartsen in .17WSM. Ruger has been manufacturing the Model 77 for over 30 years. The original concept behind the Model 77/22® line was to build a .22 rimfire rifle to the same standards of quality, accuracy and
strength as a centerfire rifle. The Model 77 line was expanded to include .17 caliber cartridges after the .17HMR was introduced in 2002. Adding the .17WSM cartridge to the Model 77/17® line, Ruger had put the ballistics of a rimfire cartridge that fills the void between other rimfire cartridges and small caliber centerfire cartridges into an exceptional rifle.
INDUSTRY, PA — OVO contributing writer Curt Grimm slammed a pair of Pennsylvania broom bearded toms this spring. And the second one sported two broom beards. “I was so excited to get the first one, my first ever, and the next week took a big 23-lb bird that had two beards, both broom beards,” said Grimm.
Turkey season ended May 31 in the Keystone State. Grimm, who lives in Industry, PA, said he also hunted for turkeys in neighboring Ohio but passed on a big tom late in the season he’d pursued for weeks. “He gave me such a good chase all season, I decided to let him walk,” said Grimm.
Two PA Broom Beards
Pennsylvania turkey hunter Curt Grimm managed his first — and second — broom bearded turkeys this past spring. The second one, Grimm is holding, was his biggest tom yet, a 23-pounder, taken on a local farm.
June 2015
Youth Angler League Completes First Season
OV Outdoor Times
With a completed first season under their belts, the organizers and champions of the Upper Ohio Valley Student Angler League are already looking forward to another great season in 2016. League organizer By Larry Claypool Harry Emmerling said Editor success was enjoyed by everyone connected to the new league, which involves high school-age bass fishermen (and girls) competing in a tournament-style format in boats on local waterways. The league (Upper Ohio Valley “UOV” Student Angler League) competes under a format established by the Fishing League Worldwide (FLW) and Student Angler Federation. In the inaugural season, eight regional anglers, from three different school districts, participated in the league, which was based out of East Liverpool, OH. Participating anglers were from: East Liverpool (two teams;
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Blue and White), Beaver Local and Hopewell (PA). The Blood Traditions Archery Angler of the Year honors in the league went to the only female in the league, freshman Stephanie Emmerling, of East Liverpool Blue. She claimed the individual season title by winning the third event of the year (a 1.86lb smallmouth was the top fish of the day) and finished fourth in the other two tournaments. Stephanie is the daughter of Harry Emmerling. Along with her teammate, sophomore Andrew Deering, East Liverpool Blue also won the team title for 2015. A win in the third event, on the Ohio River, sealed the title for Team Blue. The pressure now falls on this year’s top anglers to repeat the performance next year. Stephanie Emmerling said there will definitely be pressure for her to repeat. “Yes there’s pressure for repeating as Angler of the Year next year, because there’s good anglers out there with more experience. But, I guess it all depends on the fish. (Smile.)”, said Emmerling. Harry Emmerling said he and the coaches were very pleased with the athletes during the short inaugural season. “The kids were outstanding and I think they really learned a lot, especially once they got on the water with the coaches,” said Emmerling. “They handled themselves great and no one got
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hurt.” Emmerling added that with the help of knowledgeable coaches, volunteers and sponsors the first season went very well. “The adults really made it happen! From the guys in the boats — who we couldn’t do this without — to the parents back on shore who helped with everything from feeding the kids to setting up for the weigh-ins,” added Emmerling. The UOV league will look to expand next year. Working with a small group this year was by design. “That way we could make sure we had enough boaters and all the kids got the fish. Plus we could make changes on the fly with such a small group,” said Emmerling. Other top anglers in the league standings Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of UOVSAL were: East Liverpool White’s Logan East Liverpool Blue’s Stephanie Emmerling (left) Bouscher, Hopewell’s Curt Jena and Danny and Andrew Deering claimed top team honors Gentile and Beaver Local’s Justin Flowers in the Upper Ohio Valley Student Angler and Tyler Smith and East Liverpool White’s League’s inaugural season. Ben Adams. Meetings, and practices for new mem- teams to join from Beaver County, PA and bers, are being held this summer and fall to additional teams from East Liverpool and prepare for next year. The first meeting for Beaver Local school districts. Volunteer new members will be June 21 (6 p.m.) at the adult tournament anglers with bass boats are HOYA Youth Recreation Center (former being sought to assist in the future. For information about the Upper Ohio East Junior High in East Liverpool). Other Valley Student Angler League, contact meetings are scheduled for July 12 and AuHarry Emmerling at 330-383-1194 or gust 9 at the same location. Emmerling said he expects two more harry16520@hotmail.com.
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OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Owning a Suppressor 101 OV Outdoor Times
Hiram Percy Maxim invented and sold the first firearm suppressor in 1902. This simple metal cylinder has filled theaters with nostalgic scenes of gangsters eliminating their victims and Ameri- By Travis R. Hunt can special-forces de- OVO Pro Staff fending freedom with deafening silence. Suppressors have always been legal to own. However, the process is regulated, in part, by the National Firearms Act of 1934 (NFA). The NFA imposes an excise tax of $200 on the purchase and transfer of any firearm suppressor and delegated authority to the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms to regulate these devices. However, as an Ohio hunter, I had not given suppressors much thought. This all changed on March 23, 2015, because this was the day that hunting with suppressors became legal in the Buckeye State. Yes, section 1533.04 of the Ohio Revised Code1 is now effective and
hunters, me included, began to ask questions. The purpose of this article is three-fold: 1. detail the benefits of utilizing a suppressor; 2. detail popular suppressor options; and 3. provide a navigable process flow to obtain a suppressor. Writing this article inevitably resulted in me consulting a subject matter expert (SME). I spent nearly five hours, over two days, absorbing a wealth of stories and information from Mr. J. D. Jones, founder of SSK Industries in Wintersville, OH (http://www.sskindustries.com). How did I know he was a SME? For starters, nearly five years ago, my wife wanted to surprise me for my 40th birthday, by having the severed wooden stock on my grandfather’s bolt action, Anshutz rifle repaired. The wooden stock was splintered in the late 1980’s during high school antics and had sat in a gun case for 25 years. The Anshutz corporate office in Germany recommended SSK Enterprises. Imagine my wife’s surprise when she learned this company was located in our
June 2015
Ohio Valley Outdoors - Photo courtesy of J.D. Jones
The author (right) is shown with SSK Industries owner J.D. Jones. Hunt is holding a suppressed Ruger 10/22 and Jones a suppressed Contender chambered in 41 caliber.
back yard. Secondly, and more impressive, J.D. is the inventor of the 300 Whisper cartridge, which over the years has morphed into the popular 300 AAC Blackout cartridge. J.D. shared with me that he has operated from the current location since 1988 and provides a wide variety of custom gunsmith services in addition to manufacturing suppressors,
custom AR platforms and Contender and Encore barrels. My second day with J.D. concluded with a hands-on demonstration of suppressors in action. Options According to J.D., the world of suppressors is full of variables. The obviTurn To Suppressor Page 15
June 2015
Suppressor From Page 14
ous variable is the reduction in decibels achieved between a specific gun, dressed with a specific suppressor and firing specific ammunition. Change any of these and the sound will change. After that “accuracy and repeatability are most important.” This means that a suppressed weapon does you no good if it is not accurate. To appreciate what a suppressor does we must understand how our firearm produces sound. The act of firing the cartridge results in sound produced initially from the mechanical components of the firearm. After the propellant ignites the inevitable muzzle blast yields high temperature pressure and gasses or what is jointly known as turbulence. We often refer to this as muzzle-blast. Muzzleblast is associated with all bullets exiting a muzzle and varies tremendously from weapon to weapon and cartridge to cartridge. I dismissed the commonly held misconception that suppressors decrease accuracy once I understood the fundamental operation of the device. The suppressor functions by diverting gas pressure away from the bullet and into and ultimately through the suppres-
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
sor. The device enables the bullet to exit the muzzle “normally” with minimal influence of muzzle-blast. The bullet not only propels from the muzzle quieter but also smoother. The reduction of the variables of muzzle-blast enables the operator to experience a more consistent exit which improves accuracy. Additionally, the added weight of the suppressor to the barrel creates a heavier and thus more stable weapon. Again this can result in an increase in accuracy. The four common variables the suppressor shopper will encounter include: 1. construction metal; 2. installation; 3. internal configuration; and 4. price. Suppressors are available in aluminum, stainless steel and titanium construction. Of course, price is reflected in that titanium suppressors are the most expensive and aluminum is the least. Aluminum suppressors appear to be trending out of popularity so I will not further address them. The concept is, you get what you pay for, meaning that titanium construction is lighter and sometimes quieter than stainless steel. A center fire titanium suppressor is about two pounds lighter than a stainless steel suppressor. The only remaining variable to ad-
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Ohio Valley Outdoors - Photo by J.D. Jones
The author is shooting a suppressed Colt M16A1 in a full automatic mode. Notice the four rounds expelled from the chamber and yet to hit the ground.
dress was price. J.D. stated that the existing $200 transfer fee, mandated by the NFA, is unavoidable and therefore, must be always factored into your shopping budget. A custom SSK stainless steel .22LR suppressor is $400. A custom SSK stainless steel center fire caliber suppressor is $650 while the titanium version is $950. He explained that 22LR and .223/5.56 suppressors are his most popular suppressors. Threading a
barrel may include an additional charge. Editor’s note: Read the rest of this article in the Summer Issue of Ohio Valley Outdoors magazine. The author details a five step process that will help you purchase a suppressor. Step 1 in the process is to contact a suppressor dealer. J.D. Jones may be a good choice. Find SSK Industries online at: www.sskindustries.com.
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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Gary Singer 10-3/4" beard, 1-1/4" spurs, 22.5lbs., bow
Taylor Johnston smallmouth bass New Cumberland Dam, OH
Shawn Johnston smallmouth bass Columbiana County, OH
June 2015
Heather Tice Spring Turkey
Barry Highfield 1st spring turkey Hancock County, WV
Send Us Your Photos
Clayton Gourly, age 13 18-1/2" bass 16-1/2" crappie
Shawn Dickey 19lbs. gobbler Monroe County
Barry Highfield 2nd spring turkey Hancock County, WV
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
June 2015
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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Tim Baker 18lbs., 9" beard, 1" spurs Prime Archery bow kill
Tim Baker 20lbs., 9.5" beard, 1" spurs
Duane Eucker 22lbs., 10" beard, 1" spurs
Larry Zarlengo bow kill
Nate Smith 23lbs., 10.5" beard, 1.25" spurs
Robert Patterson crossbow kill
Robert Patterson 10-pt. Mahoning County, OH
Aiden Thompson, age 9 1st turkey, 17 lbs Trumbull County, OH
Rod Mayle longbeard Lee County, VA
Connor Mayle turkey Trumbull County
Mike Craig 8-pt. buck Mahoning County, OH
Tristan, age 2 1st fish Tomlinson Run State Park, WV
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
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June 2015
www.ohiovalleyoutdoors.com
Ohio Valley Outdoors
Fish Structures Added by ODNR
COLUMBUS, OH — Over 1,500 donated Christmas trees were recycled into fish concentration devices this past year by the ODNR Division of Wildlife. Structures were placed in Berlin Reservoir (Mahoning, Portage, and Stark counties) and Tappan Reservoir (Harrison County) in areas that will benefit shore anglers and boat anglers alike. “Both of the areas where we placed these structures are within walking distance of a major parking lot and within a halfmile of a boat ramp,” said Matt Wolfe, fish biologist who oversees this project for the ODNR Division of Wildlife. “These fish attractors will be drawing in panfish for shore anglers and boat anglers for several years to come,” he added. On Berlin Reservoir, close to 400 structures were added to the structures placed at Price Street last year. The structures are in about four to eight feet of
water, and run from N 40o 58’ 16.2” / W 81 o 6’ 20.0” to N 40o 58’ 27.8” / W 81 o 6’ 18.4” . On Tappan Reservoir, 60 structures were placed just north of the beach adjacent to the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District’s Tappan Lake Park. The structures were placed in nine to 12-feet of water, and run from N 40o 19’ 38.9” / W 81 o 10’ 56.2” to N 40 o 19’ 31.8” / W 81o 10’ 53.5”. The map datum on your GPS unit should be set at NAD 83 to find the structures and the coordinates provided are in degrees, minutes, and seconds. The goals of this project are to increase angler participation by concentrating fishes in identified areas and to increase angler catch rates. The ODNR Division of Wildlife thanks the Mahoning County Green Team and various other tree vendors across northeast Ohio for recycling the trees, the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office for transporting
Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of ODNR
ODNR Division of Wildlife Biologist Dan Wright takes a load of pine trees to an underwater dropoff site for fish structures at Tappan Lake.
materials, The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers- Berlin Office for placing some of the structures. A downloadable Google Earth file containing all of the structure placements throughout northeast Ohio is available by contacting
the Wildlife District Three office at (330) 644-2293. To view pictures of the structure placements, visit www.wildohio.gov. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
June 2015
Big Bite At Berlin
BERLIN CENTER, OH — The morning rains didn’t intimidate the 31 boat field in Walleye Madness Tournaments second event at Berlin Lake. Participants were spread out throughout the lake using many different techniques to catch their five best walleye to bring up to the scales. First place was captured by the team of Sam Cappelli and Ted Jackson. Cappelli and Jackson hauled a nice 18.05lb bag. The pair also collected $150 Mercury Contingency Bonus with being the highest finishing boat equipped with a Mercury. Chris Durkin and Anthony Naples, who brought 17.55lb to the scales, edged out Nate Arnold and Bret Berkey for a third place finish. The combined with a 17.50lb bag. Durkin and Naples picked up the Lund Contingency worth $150 with being the highest finishing Lund Boat. Marion Erb and Robert Burkholder grabbed fourth place with a strong 16.90lb bag. James Dean and
OHIO VALLEY OUTDOOR TIMES
Jeff Metzger rounded off the top five. The $200 Buckeye Sports Center Big Fish Bonus went to the team of Ryan Cecil and Brock Stence with a monster 7.05lb walleye. Many teams reported catching their fish with jig and worm/minnow combos. Working the shorelines on both north and south ends of the lake. Pitching up into the willows in 1-8 foot of water seemed to hold the bigger fish. Teams trolling targeted suspended fish in 30-50 feet of water using #5 flicker shads. Trolling speeds up to 2.7 mph. Walleye Madness Tournaments are sponsored by Buckeye Sports Center, Lund Boats and Mercury Marine. The series offers no-membership fee required 100% payout tournaments, plus $500 per event in sponsor bonuses. Cabela’s National Ohio Valley Outdoors– Photo courtesy of WMT Team Championship qualifying is pro- Sam Cappelli and Ted Jackson captured top vided by the series affiliation team honors in the second Walleye Madness with the national organization The Wall- Tournaments event at Berlin Lake. The duo combined for a nice 18.05lb bag. eye Federation.
19 Why Should We Hunt? Reason #1: Ecological Balance
COUMBUS, OH — Why should we hunt? You may have many reasons of your own, but there are three main reasons that we think are important, and we’ll highlight one each week. Reason #1: Ecological Balance Ohio hunters play a critical role in the control of deer and other animal populations, which are carefully studied by the Division of Wildlife. The length of hunting seasons and other regulations are directly related to the need to thin or extend species numbers in the state. Without the help of Ohio hunters, a few of the risks include uncontrolled deer populations devastating crops and creating hazards for drivers on roads and highways throughout the state. To see the other ‘Why Should We Hunt?’ reasons, visit the Wild Ohio website at: www.wildlife.ohio.dnr.gov.
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