Sportsman’s INSIDE
Guide
A publication of
Southern Lakes Newspapers LLC
SPRING/SUMMER 2016
FISHING ON ECHO LAKE. (DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES FILE PHOTO)
• ON THE LAKE • AT THE RANGE • IN THE WOODS
BicycleWise and Sports Fitness
is named one of America’s best bike shops BicycleWise and Sports Fitness of Whitewater has been named one of America’s best bike shops for 2014 and 2015 by the National Bicycle Dealers Association. There are about 4,000 bike shops in the United States, and fewer than 300 were chosen to be named “America’s Best.” The shops were asked to fill out a detailed application describing what sets them apart from the average retailer. Mystery shoppers then evaluated the business in more detail by visiting the store, reviewing their website, and contacting the shop by phone to assess the performance from a consumer’s perspective.
Applicants are awarded points based on the application and shopping results, with only the highest performers being selected. BicycleWise is one of eight shops in Wisconsin named “America’s Best.” During the application process, heartwarming stories came in from all over the country of shops that donate bicycles to children, work to find safe routes to schools, build bike trails, and organize free bicycling events to get people outside and help them maintain a healthy lifestyle. The program is designed to help consumers find great stores in their areas that will provide the expertise and professionalism they need to get the most
benefit from cycling. The recipients of the America’s Best Bike Shops title not only offer great shopping experiences, but are also rated on their support for their communities, as well as support for bicycle advocacy both locally and nationally. BicycleWise and Sports Fitness is owned and operated by John and Liz Sotherland and is also home to Sotherland Custom Bicycles, which produces custom bikes by master frame-builder John Sotherland. BicycleWise and Sotherland Custom Bicycles is at 1155 W. Main St. To learn more check out BicycleWise. com and Sotherlandbikes.com
2016 SPRING/SUMMER SPORTSMAN’S GUIDE
BicycleWise and Sports Fitness of Whitewater is a twotime winner of the National Bicycle Dealers Association’s Best Bike Shop of America award. Visit the sports center is at 1155 W. Main St.
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SUBMITTED PHOTO Sportsman’s Guide
Heads up Wisconsin anglers, opening day for general inland fishing is May 7.
great outdoors Inside
WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES FILE PHOTO Sportsman’s Guide
This past winter didn’t offer much for lovers of the great outdoors with little ice on the lakes for fishing and almost no snow for skiing and snowmobiling. But spring has everyone thinking about summer activities and with the jumpstart on the weather, sportsmen (and women) are chomping at the bit to uncover the boat, dust off the tackle box and pull out the camping equipment. What could be better than a day on the golf course with friends and family chasing that little white ball? Or a leisurely bicycle ride through the countryside to enjoy the early spring foliage? Then there’s the fishing. It’s fast upon us. Opening day is May 7. Are you ready? Have you restrung the poles? Picked up that fancy new lure? Checked the DNR’s fishing report (dnr.wi.gov search “fishing report)? I hope so; we don’t want to hear about the “one that got away” again. Camping is a great way to bring the family together. Book a couple of adjoining campsites with extended family and/
BECKONS
or friends for some real fun. Lose the electronics and spend a few days just enjoying each other’s company. And the s’mores. With all the outdoor activities available, from boating to ATV riding to hiking and biking, there’s always something to do in Wisconsin when the weather warms up. Whatever you decide to do, do it outside. Wisconsin has much to offer, take advantage of it.
SPRING/ SUMMER 2016 A publication of
Fishing licenses...........Pages 4-5 Fishing seasons.............. Page 5 At the range..............Pages 7-9 Ward off the bugs....... Page 10 Buying an ATV.............. Page 11 New panfish regs......... Page 12 On the water............... Page 13
Sportsman’s Guide
Southern Lakes Newspapers 1102 Ann St., Delavan, WI 53115
Editor................................................... Tracy Ouellette Creative/Production Director.................. Sue Z. Lange Advertising Director......................... Vicki Vanderwerff Special Sections Advertising.............. Karen Dubinsky
For advertising opportunities: call (262) 725-7701 ext. 134 or email vicki@southernlakes newspapers.com
2016 SPRING/SUMMER SPORTSMAN’S GUIDE
THE
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WISCONSIN DNR
Fly fishing is a favorite pastime of many Wisconsin anglers. WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES FILE PHOTO Sportsman’s Guide
CARS WANTED! Actively Buying Cars for Over 20 Years... Any
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Fast Payment & Pick Up! Generous Finder’s
Wisconsin residents who are 16 years old or older need a fishing license to fish in any waters of the state. Residents need a fishing license to take rough fish by hand, hook and line or to spear fish where allowed. Residents do not need a fishing license to take smelt, rough fish, or minnows with nets, traps, and seines of legal size. (Obtain the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resource’s Guide to Wisconsin Spearing, Netting, and Bait Harvest Regulations for additional regulations). Nonresidents who are 16 years old or older need a nonresident fishing license to fish in Wisconsin waters with hook and line. Nonresidents need a fishing license to take rough fish by hand, hook and line, or to spear fish where allowed. Nonresidents of any age need a fishing license to take smelt, spear fish, or to take rough fish and minnows using nets, traps, and seines of legal size. Nonresidents may not sell minnows or smelt. (Obtain the DNR’s Guide to Wisconsin Spearing, Netting, and Bait Harvest Regulations for
additional regulations). Fishing licenses are sold at DNR Service Centers, License Sales Agents, or for an additional fee, over the phone at (877) WILICEN (945-4236) or online at dnr.wi.gov. Groups of disabled persons on fishing excursions conducted by nonprofit organizations may not need fishing licenses. Well in advance of your event, contact the WDNR Bureau of Customer Service and Licensing, (888) 936-7463 or (608) 266-2621 for more information. All annual licenses are valid from date of purchase through March 31, 2017. Licenses • Resident individual (annual) fishing license, $20 • Resident one-day fishing license, $8 – In the event the angler purchases an annual fishing license later in the same license year, the cost of the one-day license will apply towards the purchase of the annual fishing license. • Resident combination (husband and wife) license, $31 – Issued to a legally married husband and wife who meet residency requirements.
Fees!
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2016 SPRING/SUMMER SPORTSMAN’S GUIDE
Condition!
Wisconsin fishing licenses, stamps, tags needed for all anglers over age 16
2016-17
fishing seasons Opening day for Wisconsin fishing is traditionally the first Saturday in May. Hook and line fishing for many species of fish on many Wisconsin waters begins on that day. However, to better manage Wisconsin fisheries, season dates are often specific to the species of fish as well as the water body. For a complete listing of all Wisconsin’s fishing seasons, visit drn.wi.gov.
A proper tackle box is equipped with multiple types of lures to attract a variety of fish. Ask the experts at your local sporting goods store which lures work the best for the type of fish you’re casting for.
• Resident sports license $60 – This license allows for fishing and hunting of small game and gun deer. (Nonresident fee, $275) • Resident junior sports license (10-17 years old), $35 – (Nonresident fee, $36) • Resident reduced-rate fishing license, $7 – Required of anglers 16 and 17 years of age and anglers 65 years of age and older. Residents born before 1927 do not need a fishing license. Simply carry proof of age when fishing. Nonresident senior citizens must purchase a regular nonresident license. • Resident conservation patron license, $165 – This license serves as a substitute for separate licenses and stamps for annual fishing, inland trout fishing, Great Lakes trout and salmon fishing, hook and line lake sturgeon harvest, hunting small game, turkey, pheasant, deer, waterfowl, archer hunting, and trapping (trapping for residents and qualified nonresidents only). You also receive an admission sticker for state parks, state forests and state trails, and a one-year subscription to Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine. (Nonresident fee $600) • Resident junior conservation patron license (10–17 years old), $75 – (Nonresident fee $77) • Resident annual fishing licenses for the disabled, $7 – Anglers must provide one of the following as proof: Social Security Disability Award Notice issued within the past year, Letter from Social Security Administration advising the customer is
currently receiving disability benefits, Letter or Notice of Railroad Retirement Disability, or signed statement from a licensed physician or optometrist indicating that the customer’s sight is impaired to the degree that he/she cannot read ordinary newspaper print with or without corrective glasses. Discount applies to resident fishing license only. Disabled nonresidents need to buy a regular nonresident license. • Resident annual disabled veteran’s fishing license, $3 – Veterans must provide one of the following as proof: Veteran’s Disability Award Letter showing benefits are being paid for a disability of 70 percent or more, or Letter from Veterans Administration that indicates customer is receiving benefits for a service-related disability of 70 percent or more. Nonresident disabled veterans must purchase a regular nonresident license. • Free annual resident armed forces fishing license for members of the U.S. armed forces who exhibit proof that they are in active service with the armed forces and that they are a resident on furlough or leave (includes the inland trout and Great Lakes salmon stamps). • Nonresident individual (annual) fishing license, $50 • Nonresident one-day fishing license, $10 – In the event the angler purchases an annual fishing license later in the same license year, the cost of the one-day license will apply towards the purchase of the
See ANGLERS, Page 10
(dates inclusive) Early inland trout Jan. 2 (5 a.m.) to May 6 General inland trout May 7 (5 a.m.) to Oct. 15 General inland fishing May 7 to March 5, 2017 Largemouth bass Northern Zone May 7 to March 5, 2017 Southern Zone May 7 to March 5, 2017 Smallmouth bass Northern Zone – catch and release May 7 to June 17 Northern Zone harvest June 18 to March 5, 2017 Southern Zone May 7 to March 5, 2017 Musky Northern Zone May 28 to Nov. 30 Southern Zone May 7 to Dec. 31 Northern pike May 7 to March 5, 2017 Walleye May 7 to March 5, 2017 Lake sturgeon Sept. 3-30 (hook-and-line) Free fishing weekends June 4-5 Jan. 21-22, 2017
2016 SPRING/SUMMER SPORTSMAN’S GUIDE
WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES FILE PHOTO Sportsman’s Guide
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WARNING: ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Avoid operating Polaris ATVs, RANGERs or RZR’s on paved surfaces or public roads. Riders and passengers should always wear a helmet, eye protection, protective clothing, and a seat belt (on RANGER® vehicles). Never engage in stunt driving, and avoid excessive speeds and sharp turns. Polaris adult ATV models are for riders age 16 and older. Drivers of RANGER & RZR vehicles must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license. All ATV riders should take a safety training course. For ATV safety and training information call the SVIA at (800) 887-2887, see A+ Power Sports or call Polaris at (800) 342-3764. Polaris Industries Inc.
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2016 SPRING/SUMMER SPORTSMAN’S GUIDE
Served at our in-shop espresso bar
in-shop espresso bar
Greg Hudz shoots a handgun at a target in the 25-yard range at McMiller Sports Center in Eagle. The center is the largest outdoor public shooting range in the state, according to manager Connor Bradbury.
Area range popular place
INTEREST IN GUNS GENERATES BUSINESS FOR MCMILLER SPORTS CENTER
By Heather Ruenz STAFF WRITER
While the increase in sales of guns at McMiller Sports Center in Eagle has been modest since the Concealed Carry Law passed, there are considerably more people interested in firearms, according to the center’s manager. “We’ve definitely seen an uptick. There’s an increase in people taking concealed carry courses and people are generally more interested in firearms,” Connor Bradbury said. The center has a wide variety of guns
for sale including rifles, shotguns and handguns but, Bradbury said, gun sales have never been high at the center because it’s not a go-to dealer like Cabela’s and Gander Mountain. “We’re known for our ranges. In fact, we’re the largest outdoor public shooting range in the state,” Bradbury said. Concealed carry courses are offered at McMiller at least once a month through a variety of different instructors, Bradbury said, along with classes in weapons handling and firearms safety several times a year. Bradbury said numerous law
enforcement agencies use the center for training. While the training is restricted to personnel from those agencies, the center always has open ranges for the public during its business hours. He said McMiller is a great place for shooters, from novice to expert. Firsttimers are also welcome. “First-time attendees should call in advance and schedule a time so we can accommodate them. We’ll pair them up with a range safety officer who will show them a variety of things including proper
See AREA RANGE, Page 8
2016 SPRING/SUMMER SPORTSMAN’S GUIDE
HEATHER RUENZ Sportsman’s Guide
7
• Area range
(Continued from page 7)
firearms handling and shooting techniques. “The RSOs will be right by their side until they’re comfortable at which point we’ll step back,” Bradbury said. Safety, he explained, is “our No. 1 priority while having fun is No. 2. All of our ranges have at least one RSO to help with anytime they’re needed.”
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Options available Bradbury said memberships are available but people don’t have to be members to use the ranges. “We offer day rates for those who’ve never been here and want to try it, for those who can’t get here frequently or have friends or relatives visiting from out of town that they want to bring shooting,” he said. The base costs for daily, nonmembers are: $12 an hour
HEATHER RUENZ Sportsman’s Guide
The lodge at McMiller Sports Center is a place for shooters to warm up with a cup of hot coffee or cocoa near the fireplace between rounds and also houses a variety of firearms, ammunition, clothing and shooting-related accessories for sale.
Korey Kuehni, Proprietor/Technician
Bicycle Sales & Repairs
Locally Owned & Operated
Complete Bumper to Bumper Auto Repair
Skateboards Disc Golf Bike Accessories
Hours: M–F 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. 416 S. 7th St., Delavan, WI 53115
(262) 728-2886 korey@koreysautokare.com www.koreysautokare.com
186 W. Main Street Downtown Whitewater
Phone: (262) 473-2950
Mon.-Fri. 10 to 5:30, Sat. 9 to 5 • www.quiethutsports.com
157550
2016 SPRING/SUMMER SPORTSMAN’S GUIDE
Wide variety of ranges McMiller Sports Center offers a variety of ranges including: 6- to 300-yard ranges, novice trap range, .22 plinking range and a 12-station sporting clays course. The pistol range features moveable targets from 6 to 25 yards while the novice trap range throws clays in one direction, making it suitable “for those looking to start hunting,” Bradbury said. The long gun ranges are 50, 100 and 300 yards, with the 300-yard range featuring target points at 100 and 200 and 300 yards. The .22 plinking range, he
said, “is designed specifically for .22 caliber long rifles and has metal targets. Some spin, some ding, and so on. It’s great for kids just getting started because it’s a bit more animated and fun.” In an effort to keep the sporting clays course from getting stale, Bradbury said the course is changed weekly. “It’s always different and that’s important for our frequent shooters. Each station has two different throwers that send the clays in different directions so it’s a good challenge,” he said.
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for the 25-, 50- or 100-yard range, or $16 all day for use of all three of those ranges. The long gun range prices are $18 an hour or $22 all day, and include access to everything other than the sporting clays course. Sporting clays are $17.50 for a round of 50 clays and it generally takes 1 to 1-1/2 hours to complete depending on the size of the group, Bradbury said. Kids are half the price of adults with anyone younger than 18 needing to be accompanied by an adult at all times. Kids 8 and older are allowed to shoot rifles and shotguns while those 16 and older are allowed to shoot handguns. Bradbury said anyone who uses the range more than 12 times a year will save money with an annual membership, which is good for one calendar year from the date of purchase. The $200 annual membership offers access to the 25-, 50- and 100-yard ranges; $300 membership is access to all ranges on site with the exception of sporting clays; $400 is good for a family of four (must be immediate family members) with access to the 25-, 50- and 100-yard ranges and includes the novice traps and plinking range. An annual sporting clay membership is $320 and features a key card loaded with 1,000 clays, bringing the cost per clay from .35 to .32.
Hours and location “We’re open year round but our hours fluctuate dependent on temperatures and daylight hours,” Bradbury said. In the winter months, McMiller Sports Center is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, Saturday and Sunday. When Daylight Saving Time begins – in midMarch – the center is open an extra hour, until 5 p.m., Friday, Saturday and Sunday. In mid-May Thursday is added to the mix; in July, Wednesdays; and in September, the center is open Tuesday through Sunday. “In preparation for deer season, for the first two full weeks of November we’re open seven days a week,” Bradbury said. Bradbury, who is from Massachusetts, served five years in the Marines where he met his best friend, who is from this area. “We chose to go to UW-Whitewater together. I have a bachelor’s of science degree in criminology with a minor in sociology. We both started working here and I’m still here even though Ryan moved on. I love Wisconsin,” he said. Because the center is on state-owned land, a lease swap occurs every five years by way of a bidding process, Bradbury said. McMiller Sports Center, S103 W38754 Highway NN, Eagle is off of Highway 67 between Elkhorn and Eagle. For more information visit www.mcmillersportcenter. com, email mcmillersportcenter2@gmail. com or call (262) 594-5900.
“
We’ve definitely seen an uptick. There’s an increase in people taking concealed carry courses and people are generally more interested in firearms.” – Connor Bradbury, Manager, McMiller Sports Center
2016 SPRING/SUMMER SPORTSMAN’S GUIDE
Erin Kelly, facilities manager at McMiller Sports Center in Eagle, and Connor Bradbury, manager, try out equipment at one of 12 sporting clay stations on site with Kelly shooting while Bradbury pulls the trigger on the thrower.
HEATHER RUENZ Sportsman’s Guide
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Chico’s
• Anglers
annual fishing license. • Nonresident 4-day individual license,  $24 • Nonresident 15-day individual license, $28 • Nonresident 15-day family license, $40 – Includes children 1617 years old (Note: Family licenses do not include grandchildren ages 16-17 years old). • Nonresident annual family license, $65 – Includes children 1617 years old (Note: Family licenses do not include grandchildren ages 16-17 years old). • Annual Inland Trout Stamp Privilege (residents and nonresidents), $10 – See the Guide to Wisconsin Trout Fishing Regulations 2012-13 for license restrictions. Required in addition to your fishing license to fish trout on tributaries to Lake Superior and all inland waters, except Green Bay and Lake Michigan tributaries up to the first dam or lake. • Annual Great Lakes Trout and Salmon Stamp Privilege (residents and nonresidents), $10 – Required in addition to your fishing license to fish trout or salmon on Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Green Bay and the tributaries of Lake Michigan and Green Bay up to the first dam or lake. • Two-day Sports fishing license for residents and nonresidents, $14 – This license entitles a resident or nonresident to fish the outlying waters of Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Green Bay, as well as Lake Michigan and Green Bay tributaries upstream to the first dam or lake. License includes the Great Lakes Trout and Salmon stamp privilege. • Two-day Inland Lake Trout Fishing License (residents only), $14 – This license authorizes fishing for trout on inland lakes. A trout stamp is not required • Hook and Line Lake Sturgeon Harvest Tag, $20 – Anglers who intend to harvest a lake sturgeon must purchase this tag first, regardless of age or need for a fishing license. Harvest tags are available for either inland waters or Wisconsin/Michigan boundary waters. A fishing license is required to fish for sturgeon (unless you are exempt), but a harvest tag is not required for catch and release sturgeon fishing (Nonresident fee $50) For more information, visit dnr.wi.gov.
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2016 SPRING/SUMMER SPORTSMAN’S GUIDE
COME SEE WHAT CHICO’S HAS TO OFFER!
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Chico’s LLC
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(Continued from page 5)
Warm days mean picnics, ballgames and outdoor adventure. Unfortunately, all that sun and fun can introduce a greater risk of skin woes for you and your family. “Whether you’re playing catch in the backyard or pitching a tent in the woods, you can help prevent certain issues from occurring, and if they do, be prepared by having a remedy on hand that can offer your family instant healing and relief from itching, burning and discomfort,” says Dr. Angela Lamb, dermatologist. With that in mind, here are some tips to prevent and treat the itch and irritation of the season:
See BITES AND ITCH, Page 15
Tips for buying
With a variety of options available, ATVs are great for leisure riders or families to enjoy the great outdoors together. FILE PHOTO Sportsman’s Guide
your first all-terrain vehicle Are you prepared to play safely? 1. Safety is always an important consideration when purchasing an ATV.
Enrolling in a safety-training course will get you acclimated to riding an ATV. The ATV Safety Institute offers courses that help you become a more safe and aware rider.
Consider the age and experience of 2. the primary rider. ATVs come in all shapes and sizes. It’s important to match
the right features with the rider for a more enjoyable ATV experience. Is the rider a youth, beginner adult or adult with other power sports equipment experience? There are vehicles available for children as young as age six, and adult-only vehicles in different power options. Don’t overdo
it on your first purchase. You can always upgrade power and performance down the line.
3.
How many riders will your ATV need to carry and how? In addition to the typical straddle ATV for one person, there are also ATVs specifically designed to carry a driver and passenger for double the fun. Known as “2-Up” ATVs, they feature a longer chassis with a second seat behind the driver.
Determine the terrain where you’ll 4. be riding. Will it be hard-packed trails, fields, mud, sand or steep hills? If
mostly deep mud or steep hills, a fourwheel drive ATV, with its enhanced traction, would probably make for a more enjoyable experience. For regular trails and field riding, a two-wheel drive vehicle should suffice. If riding in highly rutted or rocky terrain, an ATV with electronic power steering might be the best bet to help reduce handlebar feedback and rider fatigue.
Weigh how the ATV will be used. 6. ATVs, generally, are either for sport or utility. Sport quads are made
for recreational or high-performance riding. Utility ATVs, such as the Polaris Sportsman, from Polaris Industries, a leading manufacturer of ATVs, offer fourwheel drive and can carry loads, tow, plow and perform many other tasks.
Do you prefer a steering wheel and 7. pedal controls? The new “style” of ATV introduced as the Polaris ACE is
a single-seat, sit-in ATV with a steering wheel and a cage for more comfort, confidence and capability. It offers a unique way for both novice and experienced riders to hit the trail. • Finally, how much do you want to spend? Research the various features to find a machine that fits your budget, riding style, work expectation and experience. Keeping in mind these considerations and doing your research will ensure a smooth purchase and even smoother ATV riding experience. For further facts and advice on ATVs, visit www.polaris.com. (NAPS)
2016 SPRING/SUMMER SPORTSMAN’S GUIDE
More than a quarter of a million Americans buy all-terrain vehicles a year. If you plan – or just dream – to be among them this year, you should know that, as with any major purchase, a little knowledge can go a long way toward helping you get the best possible deal. These seven suggestions can help:
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Panfish regulations have changed on 93 lakes
In an effort to improve panfish size on 93 Wisconsin lakes with the potential for bigger fish, new regulations took effect on April 1. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources put the experimental regulations in place following a process that involved more than 3,500 survey responses, more than 30 public meetings, multiple questions on two spring hearing questionnaires before the Wisconsin Conservation Congress and approval by the Natural Resources Board. Max Wolter, DNR senior fisheries biologist and panfish team leader, said the rules are part of a 10-year management plan
See PAN FISH, Page 14
WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES FILE PHOTO Sportsman’s Guide
There are new rules governing panfishing on many of Wisconsin’s inland lakes. While the bag limits on panfish will remain unchanged on most of the state’s lakes, the limits have been reduced on the 93 lakes that are part of the experimental program.
2016 SPRING/SUMMER SPORTSMAN’S GUIDE
FISH AREN’T BITING?
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Catch your fish here for supper tonight. NO LIMIT * NO LICENSE
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Get out on the water and go boating. It not only benefits overall well being, it’s also more accessible than many think.
Boating made easy:
FILE PHOTO Sportsman’s Guide
Feeling stressed? Adding water to your summer plans may be one of the best remedies. More than four in five Americans say being around water relaxes them, and 72 percent feel healthier after spending time on the water, according to a 2015 Discover Boating survey by Wakefield Research. With Americans working longer hours, the need to take vacation time is greater than ever. Four in 10 Americans are not using all their paid time off and 81 percent of Americans feel reducing stress levels is a top priority when taking PTO, according to Project: Time Off’s 2015 research by GFK Public Affairs. “Today’s technology can make it difficult to fully disconnect and relax, which is why
boating offers a unique solution,” says Carl Blackwell, president of Discover Boating. “Surrounded by water, fresh air and your favorite people makes a boat one of the rare places where you can focus on each other, forget about daily distractions and enjoy the outdoors.” Whether on vacation or staycation, there are fun, stress-free ways to get on the water. Discover Boating’s insider tips can help anyone get started in fishing, wakesurfing, sailing, personal watercraft and cruising this summer.
Take a class Sign up for a boating lesson to hone those powerboating, sailing or watersports skills by mastering the basics while having fun along the way. Find boating classes, training courses and even youth boating programs close to home on DiscoverBoating.com’s education and training section. Join a club Find a boat club near you for a hassle-free and cost-sharing way to access a versatile fleet of boats. Simply pay a monthly fee and book your time online. Most boat clubs take care of docking, cleaning, and maintenance,
with members responsible for fuel. Plus, most offer extensive boater education courses as part of the membership. Share the fun Share the fun and the budget. Fractional ownership programs are similar to boat clubs offering shared access to boats paired with maintenance and education, with a few subtle differences – an annual fee versus monthly dues and assignment of members to a particular boat, similar to a property timeshare instead of a fleet of boats. Another popular “sharing” trend is to go in on a boat with family or friends to share the costs. Try Discover Boating’s boat selector tool to research what boat best fits your budget and lifestyle. Rent a boat Rental options are available on most waterways and provide hourly or daily access to a variety of boat types. Rental outfitters provide tutorials on operating a boat, share safety instructions and offer suggestions on destinations. Another rental option new to market is peer-to-peer rentals, allowing you
See BOATING, Page 14
2016 SPRING/SUMMER SPORTSMAN’S GUIDE
FIVE WAYS TO REST, RELAX AND RECHARGE ON THE WATER
13
Millions of Americans go boating each year on more than 15 million boats in the United States, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association.
• Boating
(Continued from page 13)
to rent someone else’s boat, which usually includes insurance and captains for hire to help you set sail. Charter a trip Explore new waters and experience the boating lifestyle
by chartering a boat trip with family or friends. Chartering offers options – bareboat (with no captain) or crewed (with captain and crew) for a few days or weeks long. Pick your preferences and chart your course. Find your way on the water by using Discover Boating’s get on
the water interactive tool, just enter your zip code to find rentals, boat clubs and more close to home. If you’re curious about owning a boat, whether new or previously owned, take the next step and research all your options on DiscoverBoating.com. (BPT)
FILE PHOTO Sportsman’s Guide
2016 SPRING/SUMMER SPORTSMAN’S GUIDE
• Pan fish
(Continued from page 12) that also focuses on habitat improvement panfish about six or seven years to reach and predator management to boost panfish that 8-inch size, at which point their rate of on specific lakes across Wisconsin. growth slows. In Wisconsin, bluegills 9 to There is no change to bag limits on 10 inches (which are often male) can be as most general inland waters, which will still old as 14 to 16 years. have the statewide bag limit that provides Heavy harvesting on some lakes and for a harvest of 25 fish per day for species chains of lakes currently prevents most including bluegill, pumpkinseed, sunfish, panfish from surviving beyond age 4 (when crappie and yellow perch. they measure in at 5 inches). “Panfish are the target of more anglers Three different experimental bag limits in Wisconsin than any other group of fish are being applied to 93 lakes to determine and through our fisheries survey work, which is most efficient at improving panfish we’ve identified key lakes where panfish size. The new rules will be evaluated size has declined over time,” Wolter said. initially in five years and again in 10 years “We appreciate the support we’ve received to determine whether they are improving from anglers throughout this process and panfish size as well as whether anglers we believe the new regulations will produce continue to support the changes. positive results on the lakes we’ve identified The daily limits on the high potential together.” lakes will take one of the following forms: With panfish, fewer, larger fish can • 25/10. Under this rule, a total of 25 produce significantly more fillet meat than panfish may be kept per day but no more many smaller fish. In fact, just four 8-inch than 10 of any one species; bluegills produce more fillet meat than 25 • Spawning season 15/5. Under this rule, bluegills measuring 5 to 6 inches. It takes a total of 25 panfish may be kept per day
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except during May and June when a total of 15 panfish may be kept but no more than five of any one species; or • 15/5. Under this rule, a total of 15 panfish may be kept per day but no more than five of any one species. DNR fisheries biologists have posted signs at boat landings and public fishing spots on the affected lakes. Although the general inland fishing season opens May 7 this year, panfish have a year round season and the change in regulations coincides with the timing of the new fishing license year. “A good way for anglers to think about it is to look for the new regulations in the 2016-17 Guide to Wisconsin Hook and Line Fishing Regulations when they get their new licenses,” Wolter said. For a complete list of lakes that will be governed by the experimental regulations, check out the factsheet. To learn more about the plan and experimental regulations, search the DNR website, dnr.wi.gov for “panfish plan.”
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• Bites and itch
(Continued from page 10) Be aware remedy for bites from a wide Be savvy outdoors and teach variety of insects. your family to avoid poison ivy, For instant and permanent relief oak and sumac. If you spend time from itching and pain associated in areas where these plants grow, with hives, rashes and redness, cover up and avoid contact. When insect bites, minor scrapes, and you get home, be sure to wash skin allergic reactions from poison and clothing that may have been ivy, oak and sumac, Dr. Lamb exposed to the sap of these plants. recommends a new steroid-free Ensure your yard drains properly anti-itch product for the whole during and after rain and empty family called The Itch Eraser. kiddie pools and other standing water. It is offered in a maximum Proactive steps such as these will strength gel and spray with prevent mosquitoes from making antihistamine as the active your yard a breeding ground. ingredient, or a sensitive cream formula with baking soda for those Treat ailments who have sensitive skin. All three Even with preventive measures contain Vitamin E and Tea Tree in place, bites, stings, scrapes Oil to heal and moisturize the and allergic reactions do happen. skin while reducing redness and Make sure you’re prepared to treat inflammation. discomfort. So, get the bikes dusted off, For bites and stings, Dr. Lamb the baseball mitts oiled and the recommends a counterirritant camping gear out of the garage – such as After Bite, which stops family fun this season is all about itch and offers a skin protectant taking advantage of the outdoors. for temporary relief and faster But don’t let skin irritations get healing. The kids’ formula is a in way of your good time. Take gentle alternative for young ones precautions and arm yourself or anyone with sensitive skin. Both with treatments for all your skin contain soothing baking soda and problems. (STATEPOINT) offer an easy-to-apply, portable
More bare skin means more risk for bug bites and stings, and exposure to rashcausing plants such as poison ivy and poison oak. When possible, wear long sleeves and pants. Loose-fitting, light colors can keep you cool on warmer days, even when covered up. When you get home, check clothes for ticks before heading inside.
FILE PHOTO Sportsman’s Guide
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